JP2014030742A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine capable of enhancing a desire to play.SOLUTION: A pachinko machine 1 proceeds with a game by repeating switchover of either a normal state or a probability-variable state as a play mode of the machine; and performing various presentations by lighting/flashing/extinguishing an ornament lamp accompanying a progress of the game. In a state of special game such as a jackpot, especially, the ornament lamp is lit/flashed in a special pattern, enhancing a dramatic impact, leading to enhancing a desire to play.

Description

  In a conventional gaming machine, whether or not a player can be profited is determined by lottery. Especially, a big hit probability variation machine increases the probability of a lottery when it wins a specific hit. . For this reason, if a player can play in a state in which the lottery probability is high (hereinafter referred to as “probability variation state”) from the normal probability state (hereinafter referred to as “normal state”), it is easier to hit. As a result, increasing the number of jackpots increases the possibility of obtaining a large amount of profit.

  For this reason, the jackpot probability fluctuation machine adopts a technique that raises the expectation that if the probability fluctuation state due to so-called probabilistic jackpot etc. becomes probable, it will appeal to the player extensively, and the profit of the jackpot can be continuously obtained. Has been. In this case, the player who knows that the probability variation state is in the game continues with a sense of expectation for the next jackpot. On the other hand, if the player knows that the first jackpot will not change the probability (so-called normal jackpot), the player loses his expectation and willingness to play the next jackpot, Therefore, the game tends to be stopped, and as a result, the operating rate of the gaming machine is reduced.

As described above, the probability big hit is good, but if not, the game willingness is reduced, resulting in a problem that the operation of the gaming machine is lowered.
In order to solve such problems, a gaming machine that does not display the current game mode during the game can be considered.
For example, there is known a gaming machine that delays as much as possible of notifying the player that the game mode is a probability variation state (see Patent Document 1).

  In this known game machine, the probability variation notification delay counter is decremented every time the special symbol variation stops after the big hit, and when this probability variation notification delay counter becomes 0, the current game state is displayed. In other words, in this known gaming machine, there is a period in which the current gaming state is not informed to the outside regarding whether or not the gaming state is in a probability variation state, and the player knows the gaming state within this period. I can't do that. According to such a gaming machine, it is considered that the gaming machine can be continuously operated and the operation of the gaming machine can be increased until the player knows the transition to the probability variation state.

JP 2000-271297 A

  However, in such a known gaming machine, the following problems may occur during a period in which the game mode is not output to the outside. That is, for example, when a hall employee tries to change the game mode which is the internal state of the gaming machine illegally against the player's intention, the player may not notice this illegal act. Specifically, for example, a hall employee pretends to deal with a malfunction of a gaming machine, and performs a so-called RAM clear process (initialization process) on a gaming machine whose gaming mode is in a state of probability variation. Therefore, there is a possibility that the state is changed to a low probability state which is disadvantageous to the player. If such a fraud is performed, there is a possibility that a player who has played a game may not be able to enjoy the benefits that could have been originally enjoyed by jackpot without knowing at all.

  Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a technique capable of easily discovering that a game mode has been illegally changed against a player's will.

(Solution 1)
The gaming machine according to the present invention includes a lottery to determine whether or not to give a profit to a player with a predetermined probability, and in the case of winning, has a profit discriminating means for discriminating what kind of profit should be given to the player. In the gaming machine capable of giving a predetermined profit to a player based on the determination result of the profit determination means, the first game mode in which the predetermined probability is set relatively low when the lottery is executed. The winning probability changing means which can be changed to any one of the second gaming modes in which the predetermined probability is set higher than the low probability gaming mode, and the gaming mode is changed to the second gaming mode by the winning probability changing unit. A storage means for storing game state information relating to whether or not the power supply has been stopped when the power supply is stopped, and an initialization signal is generated in response to a power supply start operation. Initialization operation means for executing initialization of the game state information stored in the storage means, and information regarding whether or not the game state is the second game state triggered by the generation of the initialization signal. The game machine is provided with information teaching means for teaching to the outside.

  Here, first, in the gaming machine of the present invention, a case is assumed in which, for example, an employee in a hall tries to manipulate a game mode illegally against the player's will. First, in the gaming machine according to the present invention, as the game progresses, the game mode that is the internal state may be changed to the first game mode or may be changed to the second game mode. If the game mode is the second game mode, the lottery probability is set higher than that of the first game mode. Therefore, if the player assumes the second game mode, it will soon be a big hit. The game can be continued with the expectation that the profit can be enjoyed.

  Here, for example, if a malfunction occurs in the gaming machine of the present invention during a game, the hall employee will deal with the malfunction, but at this time, the hall employee must be aware of the malfunction. There is a risk of changing the game mode (returning from the second game mode to the first game mode). Specifically, a hall employee may attempt to change the gaming mode illegally by performing initialization processing such as so-called RAM clearing, pretending to deal with a malfunction that occurred in a gaming machine. Can be mentioned.

  When the game mode is the first game mode, the lottery probability is originally set relatively low, so even if the initialization process is performed, there is no change in the lottery probability and the player is greatly affected. It is not considered.

  On the other hand, when the game mode is the second game mode, the lottery probability is set to be relatively high. Therefore, when such initialization processing is performed, the game mode is internally The game mode is changed from the second game mode to the first game mode, and the lottery probability is set to be relatively low. In the gaming machine of the present invention, the gaming mode is not disclosed directly to the outside, and the gaming mode is searched while allowing the player to observe the behavior of the gaming machine or applying the player's rule of thumb. It is to entertain the game while guessing. For this reason, in the gaming machine of the present invention, at first glance, even if such fraud is performed, it is difficult for the player to notice the change in the game mode, and the player recognizes that the lottery probability has been changed. It seems that I can't.

  However, in the gaming machine of the present invention, for example, when a hall employee operates the initialization operation means, an initialization signal is output, and whether the gaming mode is the second gaming mode triggered by the generation of this initialization signal. The gaming machine teaches information about whether or not to the outside. For this reason, the player can recognize that the lottery probability is improperly set to be relatively low against the intention. Therefore, according to the gaming machine of the present invention, the player can easily find out that the game mode is about to be changed illegally against the player's will.

(Solution 2)
If the above configuration is defined in more detail, the gaming machine of the present invention executes a lottery to determine whether or not to give a profit to the player with a predetermined probability, and in the case of a win, gives any profit to the player. In a gaming machine that includes a profit discriminating unit that discriminates whether or not to grant, and that can give a player a predetermined profit based on the determination result of the profit discriminating unit, the predetermined probability is determined when the lottery is executed. The winning probability that can be changed to either the first game mode set relatively low and the second game mode set higher than the predetermined probability (or more than double) than the first game mode. As one operation for giving a profit to the player, the change means, the ball winning means for facilitating the acceptance of the game ball by operating a predetermined movable body, and the determination result of the profit determination means are fundamental. When meeting conditions A determination result of the basic profit granting means for providing basic profit to the player by providing facilitating acceptance of the game ball by the ball winning means by the operation of the movable body; When special conditions are satisfied, the change to the second game mode by the winning probability changing means and the easy reception of the game balls by the ball winning means by the operation of the movable body are provided. A high value-added profit giving means for giving a high value-added profit to a player, a change to the second game mode by the winning probability changing means based on a determination result of the profit determining means, and an operation of the movable body In addition to facilitating the acceptance of game balls by the ball winning means, the degree of acceptance of game balls by the ball winning means is relatively higher than that of the high added value profit giving means. By operating the movable body in such a manner, the low added-value profit granting means for giving the player a low added-value profit having a value lower than the high added-value profit and the determination result of the profit determining means are specified. When the condition is satisfied, the ball winning by the operation of the movable body is the same as or similar to the low added value profit giving means without the change to the second game mode by the winning probability changing means. By providing facilitating acceptance of a game ball by means, a game mode is provided by a low-value profit granting means for giving a player a small-value profit different from the low-value-added profit and the winning probability changing means. A storage means for storing game mode information related to whether or not the game mode has been changed to the second game mode when the power supply is stopped, and generating an initialization signal triggered by a power supply start operation And an initialization operation means for executing initialization of the game state information stored in the storage means by the generation of the initialization signal, and the game state is triggered by the generation of the initialization signal. Information teaching means is provided for the gaming machine to teach information regarding whether or not it is in an external state to the outside.

  In Solution 2, there are not only basic profits and value-added profits with added benefits but also four types of profits (basic profits, high-value-added profits, low-value-added profits, Small value profit) is given to the player, and which profit is given depends on the determination result when the lottery is won. Of these, the basic profit is directly related to the amount of play that can be obtained by the player, and the high value-added profit, in addition to the basic profit, changes the probability of subsequent lotteries to a high level (second game) Although it is a content with a privilege to be changed), the low value-added profit is lower in value than the high value-added profit, and is not directly related to the increase in the amount of balls. However, even if there is not so much play amount due to low value-added profits, since the lottery probability is changed to a high level, the player can increase the expectation of the next winning. .

  Here, as with Solution 1, even if the basic profit, high value-added profit, low value-added profit, or low-value profit is granted by the winning, Therefore, an element that clearly announces (for example, clear display by a lottery symbol) is not essential. Furthermore, even when the lottery probability is changed to a high value-added profit or low-value-added profit (changed to the second game mode), this is clearly notified to the player (for example, “probably changing”). The element to be notified by character information such as) is not essential. For this reason, the player plays the game without being clearly informed that the lottery probability has been changed to be advantageous to the self by the high added value profit or the low added value profit. On the other hand, even if a basic profit is simply given, it can continue to have a sense of expectation that it may have been an advantageous lottery probability. Such effects become even more pronounced when the information on whether or not the game mode has been changed in a normal state, and the player carefully observes the behavior of the gaming machine or applies his own rule of thumb. You can enjoy the game while searching for and guessing the game mode.

  On the other hand, things that change the lottery probability high, such as low value-added profits, must be valuable to the player, but the internal lottery probability changes high without increasing the amount of play. It is difficult for the player to feel the benefits by just doing it, and the existence itself does not make much sense if it is done, so some behavior (acting of the actor or performing the production etc.) may be combined there preferable. Therefore, when a low value-added profit is given, the player has a sense of expectation by exhibiting a behavior that the player can understand. If the player recognizes (guesses) that low-value-added profits have been granted through such behavior, even if he / she cannot acquire a conspicuous number of balls on the spot, he will win the high-value-added profit sooner or later. By doing so, it is possible to continue the game while expecting that many games can be obtained.

  However, since the low value-added profit is a content that raises the lottery probability itself, it is not realistic to give the player a low value-added profit too often from the viewpoint of the game specifications. On the other hand, if a low value-added profit is given only rarely, it will dilute itself as a rare privilege for the player, and it will distract from the expectation.

  Therefore, as a means to solve this point in a high dimension, the gaming machine of the present invention gives a small value profit to the player, and the content of this small value profit is equivalent to or approximate to the low value added profit. The contents are as follows. Specifically, in addition to changing the lottery probability higher for low value-added profits, some behavior (acting of an accessory or performance action) will be provided, but for low-value profits, changing the lottery probability ( The change to the second game mode is not performed, and only the behavior similar to or similar to the case of the low value-added profit is shown. Such a small value profit is not a content that increases the lottery probability itself, so even if it appears at an appropriate frequency, the game specifications are not greatly distorted. However, the behavior that is visible to the player when a small value profit is granted is difficult to distinguish from the case of a low value added profit, so if a player touches the small value profit, it is due to the small value profit. It is not possible to immediately determine whether it is a product or a low value-added profit, and whether or not the game mode has been changed is concealed by the game mode concealment means. There is nothing to offer.

  Therefore, if the player knows that the lottery probability is high due to the low value-added profit, even if the low-value profit is actually given, it was the low value-added profit (probability With the expectation that it may have become high), it is possible to maintain high expectations and willingness to play until the next winning. Or, even if you have not been able to obtain high-value-added profit or low-value-added profit for a while and are gradually giving up, you can win a small-value profit while continuing to play games with a slight sense of expectation. Yes, in this case, the expectation that “this time low-value-added profits may have been granted” has been revived, making it difficult for the game motivation to decline.

  As described above, the solving means 2 can give a player a profit (low value-added profit, small value profit) that is difficult to distinguish which type. For this reason, while providing many opportunities to make the player think that the game mode may have been changed, the player can scrutinize it by keeping secret whether or not the game mode has actually been changed. However, the game will continue and the willingness to play can be kept high for a long time.

  In the gaming machine of the present invention, even if the lottery probability is changed to a high value-added profit or low value-added profit (changed to the second game mode), this is clearly notified to the player. The element (for example, notification by character information such as “probably changing”) is not essential. As a result, the gaming machine of the present invention is to entertain the game while allowing the player to observe the behavior of the gaming machine or to apply the player's rule of thumb to search for or guess the game mode. For this reason, in the gaming machine of the present invention, at first glance, it is difficult for the player to notice the change of the game mode even if there is an illegal act that the game mode is illegally changed against the will of the player. It seems that it is impossible to recognize that the lottery probability has been changed.

  However, in the gaming machine of the present invention, for example, when a hall employee operates the initialization operation means, the gaming machine teaches information regarding whether or not the gaming mode is the second gaming mode to the outside. Therefore, the player can recognize that the game mode is about to be illegally changed against the player's will. Therefore, according to the gaming machine of the present invention, the player can easily find out that the game mode is about to be changed illegally against the player's will.

(Solution 3)
In any one of the above solution means 1 or 2, the time supply means for measuring the period from the initialization of the storage means by the operation of the initialization operation means to the start of the next power supply, and the power supply And a register for storing the game mode information saved from the storage means triggered by the operation of the initialization operation means when started, wherein the storage means has stopped power supply. A game mode storage area for storing the game mode information, and a history storage area for storing the game mode information saved in the register after initialization of the storage means. When the time keeping period by the time measuring means is equal to or longer than a predetermined time when the power supply is started, the gaming machine is brought to the outside based on the game state information saved in the register. When the time period measured by the time measuring means is not the predetermined time, it is desirable that the gaming machine teaches to the outside based on the game mode information stored in the history storage area. .

  First, when the initialization operation means is operated when the power supply is started, the game mode information of the storage means is saved in the register, so even if the storage means is illegally executed. Game mode information can be left in the register.

Further, when the initialization of the storage means is executed once again, the game mode information of the storage means has already been initialized. At first glance, the game mode information of the storage means is saved in the register. Then, it is likely that the game state information that has been initialized will be saved in this register.

  However, in the gaming machine of the present invention, after the storage means is initialized, the game mode information saved in the register is stored in the history storage area of the storage means. For this reason, in the gaming machine of the present invention, when the initialization of the storage means is performed once again, the original game state information can be reliably left in the history storage area of the storage means. Therefore, according to the gaming machine of the present invention, it is possible to tell the outside whether or not the game mode is the second game mode based on the original game mode information that has been reliably left.

(Solution 4)
In any one of the above solution means 1 or 2, the time supply means for measuring the period from the initialization of the storage means by the operation of the initialization operation means to the start of the next power supply, and the power supply And a register for storing the game mode information saved from the storage unit when triggered by the start, wherein the storage unit stores the game mode information when power supply is stopped. A storage area; and a history storage area for storing the game mode information saved in the register after initialization of the storage means, wherein the information teaching means is configured to store the time measuring means when power supply is started. When the time period measured by the game machine is equal to or longer than the predetermined time, the gaming machine teaches to the outside based on the game state information saved in the register, and the time measured by the time measuring means When the period is not the predetermined time, the gaming machine based on the game manner information stored in the history storage area to teach to the outside is desirable.

  First, when the initialization operation means is operated when the power supply is started, the game mode information of the storage means is saved in the register, so even if the storage means is illegally executed. Game mode information can be left in the register.

Here, when the power is turned on again and the power supply is started again, the game mode of the storage means is already initialized once. At first glance, the game mode information of the storage means is If saved in the register, it is likely that the game state information that has been initialized will be saved in this register.

  However, in the gaming machine of the present invention, after the storage means is initialized, the game mode information saved in the register is stored in the history storage area of the storage means. Even in this case, the original game mode information can be reliably left in the history storage area of the storage means. Therefore, according to the gaming machine of the present invention, it is possible to tell the outside whether or not the game mode is the second game mode based on the original game mode information that has been reliably left.

(Solution 5)
In any one of the solving means 1 to 4 described above, the determination result indicates that the specific condition satisfies the specific condition as compared to the probability that the determination result in the first game mode satisfies the special condition. When the probability of winning the lottery in a satisfying mode is set to be higher than double (or twice or higher), and when the winning game changing means is changed from the first game mode to the second game mode, In the first game mode, the lottery is performed in such a manner that the determination result satisfies the special condition in the first game mode without changing the probability of winning the lottery in the mode satisfying the specific condition. It is desirable that the probability of winning is changed more than twice (or more than twice).

  In this case, in the first game mode having a relatively low winning probability, the probability that a small value profit is given to a player is more than twice (or more than twice) than the probability that a high added value profit is given to the player. Since it will be set high, the appearance rate of small value profit will be relatively high, even if it is low probability (first game mode), many opportunities to continue to maintain the expectation until the next winning You can touch.

  Alternatively, when the second game mode is changed to a relatively high winning probability, the probability that a small value profit will be granted remains unchanged, and the probability that a high value added profit will be granted is set to be more than double. Therefore, the player can actually come into contact with many opportunities to obtain a lot of balls with high added-value profit, and can feel the lottery result as expected.

  In the gaming machine of the present invention, it is difficult for the player to understand whether the game state as the internal state is the first game state or the second game state, and does not impair the game motivation by the appearance of small value profits. I am doing so. In the gaming machine of the present invention, it seems that it is difficult for the player to understand at first glance when the game mode is illegally changed against the player's will. However, according to the gaming machine of the present invention, the information regarding whether or not the game mode is the second game mode is taught to the outside even when the initialization operation means is operated illegally. Contrary to that, it is possible to recognize that the game mode is about to be changed illegally. Therefore, according to the gaming machine of the present invention, the player can easily find out that the game mode is about to be changed illegally against the player's will.

(Solution 6)
In any one of the solving means 1 to 5, the lottery for maintaining the second game mode is specified while the game mode is changed to the second game mode by the lottery probability changing unit. It is desirable to further include a mode maintenance lottery unit that executes with probability and a game mode change unit that changes the game mode from the second game mode to the first game mode when the lottery is lost by the mode maintenance lottery unit. .

  As described above, in the gaming machine of the present invention, it is one attraction that the lottery probability changing means is changed to the second game mode (game mode having a relatively high lottery probability). There is still the possibility of falling from there before the next winning is obtained during the game mode. For this reason, even if it is changed to the second game mode once, there is a possibility of winning with a high probability from there, conversely, it will be lost in the maintenance lottery of the second game mode and from there to the first game mode It can be said that there is a possibility of being demoted. Therefore, even if it is expected that the game has been changed to the second game mode, it is possible to play a game while always feeling the risk of falling with the expectation of winning and back to back. Thrilling interest will be added.

  In addition, since the gaming machine of the present invention has the possibility of falling from the second game mode, it can be said that the change to the second game mode can be realized at a higher frequency. In other words, if the player has more opportunities to play in a game mode with a high probability of drawing, the expectation can be maintained for a longer period of time. However, it is not always possible for a player to win, and there is a possibility that the player may fall and return to the first game mode, so that only the player is not unilaterally advantageous and maintains high operation for a long period of time. This can be beneficial for both players and hall operators.

In the gaming machine of the present invention, such a maintenance lottery element is added, and since there is a possibility of falling from the second game mode, the change to the second game mode is higher as described above. It can be said that it can be realized with frequency. In spite of this, in the gaming machine of the present invention, if the game mode is illegally operated from the second game mode to the first game mode against the will of the player, at first glance such second It seems that the meaning of high frequency changes to the game mode is likely to disappear.

  However, in the gaming machine of the present invention, even when the initialization operation means is operated illegally, the gaming machine teaches information regarding whether or not the gaming mode is the second gaming mode to the outside. Therefore, the player can easily find out that the game mode is about to be illegally changed against the player's will. Therefore, according to the gaming machine of the present invention, it can be said that it is meaningful to realize the change to the second game mode at a higher frequency by adding such a maintenance lottery element. Opportunities for enjoying profits are increased by winning big hits in the second game mode set with a relatively high lottery probability.

(Solution 7)
In the solving means 1 to 6 and the subsequent solving means, the profit determining means is a winning value (in which a winning determination random number value acquired in response to winning of a game medium (for example, start winning) is prepared in advance ( A lottery is performed by determining whether or not a numerical range is applicable. Further, in the case of winning, the profit discriminating means discriminates which one of a plurality of types of winning prepared in advance and corresponds to the high value-added profit (or value-added profit) as a result of the discrimination. The special conditions are met when the winning category is met. Alternatively, as a result of the determination by the profit determining means, the specific condition is satisfied when the winning type corresponding to the small value profit is satisfied.

(Solution 8)
In the above solutions 1 to 7, the gaming machine of the present invention is a ball-type gaming machine (or a pachinko machine). As an example of the configuration of a ball-type game machine, a launching means for launching a game ball into a game area in the game board in accordance with a predetermined operation, and that a game ball has won a winning opening arranged in the game area. A winning detection means for detecting, a winning ball paying means for paying out a winning ball according to the winning of the game ball, and after stopping the game after changing the symbol over a predetermined time triggered by the winning of the gaming ball, There is provided symbol changing means for displaying a state, and special game state transition means for shifting to a special game state when the stopped symbol is in a specific symbol display mode. In this special game state, a movable body (a member that opens and closes a specific prize opening, etc.) arranged at a predetermined position in the game area is opened and a game ball can be won, and according to the number of wins of the game ball Profit is given to the player. As a benefit given to a player, paying out a game medium (giving a prize ball) to the player can be mentioned. In this case, the basic profit is to shift to the special gaming state.

(Solution 9)
In the above solutions 1 to 7, examples of the gaming machine according to the present invention include a swivel type gaming machine (or slot machine). As an example of the configuration of this spinning cylinder type game machine, after determining the number of game media to be multiplied (including betting operation in addition to the insertion of game media), the operation of the starting operation means (for example, lever) is triggered. The symbol display means for displaying the state of the stopped symbol by changing the symbol and stopping the symbol variation upon the operation of the stop operation means (for example, a stop button) or the elapse of a predetermined time, and the stopped symbol A payout means for paying out game media when the state satisfies a predetermined condition, and a special game state transition means for shifting to a special game state when the state of the stopped symbol satisfies a specific condition. In this special game state, the player can continue the game in a state where the symbol stop state is advantageous to the player for a predetermined time or a predetermined condition.

(Solution 10)
In the above solutions 1 to 7, the gaming machine of the present invention may be a spinning-type gaming machine (or a parrot machine, a pachislot machine, etc.) that uses a game ball as a gaming medium. A revolving game machine that uses a game ball to play a game can determine the multiplier of the game value by taking the game ball in place of the medal. The other basic configuration is the same as that of the solution means 9, and the design is changed by the operation of the start operation means (for example, a lever), and the operation of the stop operation means (for example, a stop button) or a predetermined time. The symbol display means for displaying the state of the stopped symbol by stopping the change of the symbol with the passage of time, the payout means for paying out a game medium when the stopped symbol condition satisfies a predetermined condition, and the stopped symbol Special game state transition means for shifting to the special game state when the state of the game satisfies a specific condition. In this special game state, the player can continue the game in a state where the symbol stop state is advantageous to the player for a predetermined time or a predetermined condition.

(Solution 11)
In the solving means 9 and 10, the symbol display device may employ a reel device that changes the symbol by changing the symbol by rotation of the reel to which the symbol is attached, or is provided separately from the reel. You may employ | adopt the display apparatus (for example, liquid crystal display device) which can display the pseudo | simulation design corresponding to or corresponding to a design.

  The gaming machine of the present invention can easily discover that the game mode has been illegally changed against the will of the player.

It is a front view of a pachinko machine. It is a perspective view which shows the state which open | released the front frame and main body frame of the pachinko machine. It is a front view of a game board. It is the figure which showed all the display patterns of the special symbol as a list. It is the block diagram which showed roughly the control structure of the pachinko machine. It is a flowchart of a start winning process. It is a flowchart of a game operation process. It is a flowchart of special figure fluctuation setting processing A. It is a flowchart of a hit variation setting process. It is a flowchart of special figure fluctuation execution processing B. It is a flowchart of a hit determination process. It is a flowchart of jackpot processing. It is a flowchart of a game state maintenance / demotion determination process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the procedure of the process at the time of power-off. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the procedure of the process at the time of power activation. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the procedure of the process at the time of power activation. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the procedure of the process at the time of power activation.

  Hereinafter, an embodiment in which the present invention is applied to a pachinko machine will be described along the following items with reference to the corresponding drawings.

1. Overview of pachinko machine (Fig. 1, Fig. 2)
2. Board configuration (Figure 3)
3. Special symbol display device (Fig. 4)
4). 4. Hit mode Maintenance lottery Control configuration (Figure 5)
6-1. Main board 6-2. Peripheral board 7. Example of control processing 7-1. Start winning process (Figure 6)
7-2. Game operation processing (Fig. 7)
7-3. Special figure variation setting process A (Fig. 8)
7-4. Variable variation setting process (Fig. 8)
7-5. Hit variation setting process (Fig. 9)
7-6. Special figure variation execution process B (FIG. 10)
7-7. Hit determination process (Fig. 11)
7-8. Big hit processing (Figure 12)
8). 8. Game mode / lottery probability change means Features of one embodiment 10. 10. Game state maintenance / demotion determination processing Power-off processing (Figure 14)
12 Power-on processing (Figs. 15 and 16)
13. Main loop processing (Fig. 17)
14 15. Reference to usefulness of this embodiment Production process 16. Second Embodiment 17. Reference to other embodiments

(1. Overview of pachinko machine)
FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 specifically show the configuration of the pachinko machine 1 according to one embodiment (first embodiment). The pachinko machine 1 includes a frame body and a game board 4, and the frame body includes an outer frame 2, a main body frame 3, a front frame 5, and the like. Among these, the outer frame 2 is configured by combining upper, lower, left, and right frame members in a rectangular shape, and a lower plate 6 for receiving the lower surface of the main body frame 3 is provided at the front lower portion thereof. One side edge (left edge in this example) of the body frame 3 is attached to one side edge (left edge in this example) of the outer frame 2 via a hinge mechanism 7, as shown in the figure. The main body frame 3 can be opened and closed on the front side of the outer frame 2. The main body frame 3 is configured by integrally molding the front frame body 8, the game board mounting frame 9, and the mechanism mounting frame 10 with a synthetic resin material. Among these, the front frame body 8 is formed on the front side of the main body frame 3, and its outer shape has a size that matches the outer shape of the outer frame 2 excluding the lower plate 6.

  The game board mounting frame 9 is formed integrally with the rear portion of the front frame body 8, and the game board 4 is mounted on the game board mounting frame 9 so as to be fitted from the front. Although not shown here, the game board 4 can also be opened and closed to the front side from the main body frame 3 via a hinge mechanism, and the game board 4 can be attached to and detached from the main body frame 3 along with this opening and closing operation. It has become.

  An annularly formed guide rail 11 is disposed on the board surface (front surface) of the game board 4, and the guide rail 11 includes an outer rail and an inner rail. On the board surface of the game board 4, a substantially circular game area 12 is defined inside the guide rail 11. In addition, the structure (board | board surface structure) in the game area | region 12 is mentioned later.

  As shown in FIG. 2, a bass speaker 14 is provided at a lower left position of the front frame body 8, and the bass speaker 14 is attached to the front frame body 8 via a mounting plate 13. Has been. In addition, a launch rail 15 is provided at a lower position of the front frame 8 at the right side from the center, and this launch rail 15 plays a role of guiding the game ball toward the launch path of the game board 4. A lower front member 16 is attached to the front frame 8 at a position below the launch rail 15 and the bass speaker 14. A lower pan 17 is formed at a substantially central position of the lower front member 16, and a firing handle 18 is provided at a position further to the right.

  As shown in part in FIG. 2, a locking device 19 is mounted on the back side of the main body frame 3 (front frame body 8) just on the side opposite to the hinge mechanism 7. The locking device 19 has a function of locking the entire body frame 3 with respect to the outer frame 2 or locking the front frame 5 with respect to the body frame 3. The locking device 19 has two types of frame locking latches 21 and door locking latches 23, and one of the frame locking latches 21 corresponds to the closing tool 20 of the outer frame 2. For example, when the main body frame 3 is pushed into the outer frame 2 from the state shown in FIG. 2, the two frame locking latches 21 on the upper and lower sides respectively engage with the corresponding stoppers 20, thereby causing the main body frame 3 to move. The outer frame 2 is fixed in a locked state.

  The other door locking latch 34 corresponds to the closing tool 22 provided on the rear surface of the front frame 5. For example, when the front frame 5 is pushed into the main body frame 3 from the state shown in FIG. At the top and bottom, the three door locking latches 34 are respectively engaged with the corresponding closures 22, whereby the front frame 5 is fixed in a locked state to the main body frame 3.

  The locking device 19 also has a cylinder lock 24. With the main body frame 3 and the front frame 5 closed, for example, an administrator or employee of the hall inserts a predetermined key into the key hole of the cylinder lock 24. When it is turned in one direction, the engagement between the frame locking latch 21 and the closing tool 20 of the outer frame 2 is released, and the main body frame 3 is unlocked. When the key is turned in the opposite direction, the engagement between the door locking latch 23 and the closing tool 22 of the front frame 5 is released, and the front frame 5 is unlocked. The front end portion of the cylinder lock 24 is exposed to the front surface of the lower front member 16 through the front frame 8 and the lower front member 16 so that the unlocking operation can be performed by inserting a key from the front of the pachinko machine 1. Arranged to do so.

  Also, a power switch (not shown) is provided on the back side of the main body frame 3 (front frame body 8). For example, an employee in the hall opens the closed main body frame 3 as necessary, and this power The pachinko machine 1 is turned on and off by operating a switch.

  The front frame 5 is also called a glass frame or a glass door, and the front frame 5 is attached to the front side of the main body frame 3 through a hinge mechanism 25 so as to be opened and closed. The front frame 5 includes a door main body frame 26 on the back side, and includes a side decoration device 27, an upper plate 28, and an acoustic illumination device 29 on the front side. The door main body frame 26 is configured by a pressed metal frame member, and the door main body frame 26 is formed to have a size that covers a portion from the upper end of the front frame body 8 to the upper edge of the lower front member 16. ing. When the front frame 5 is closed, the front side of the front frame 8 including the game board 4 is covered by the front frame 5, but a substantially circular opening window 30 is formed in the center of the door body frame 26. The game area 12 of the game board 4 can be viewed from the front through the opening window 30. In addition, a window frame 31 having a rectangular frame shape larger than the opening window 30 is provided on the rear side of the door main body frame 26, and a transparent glass plate 32 is doubled forward and backward in the window frame 31. Is installed.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the front frame 5 is provided with side decoration devices 27 on the left and right sides around the opening window 30, and an upper plate 28 at the lower part thereof. In addition, an acoustic illumination device 29 is disposed at the top. The side decoration device 27, the acoustic illumination device 29, the upper plate 28, and the like are integrated so as to constitute the outer shape of the front frame 5 as a whole, and are designed to recall a sense of unity in appearance.

  Among these, the side decoration device 27 is mainly configured by a side decoration body 33 having a built-in lamp substrate, and the side decoration bodies 33 form a pair just on the left and right of the opening window 30. In the side decorative body 33, a plurality of slit-shaped opening holes (without reference numerals) that are long in the horizontal direction are arranged in the vertical direction, and each opening hole has a light source (for example, LED) disposed on the lamp substrate. A corresponding lens 34 is incorporated.

  The acoustic illumination device 29 includes a transparent cover body 35, a speaker 36, a speaker cover 37, a reflector body (not shown), and the like, and these components are unitized in a state where they are assembled with each other.

(2. Board configuration)
FIG. 3 shows the game board 4 alone. As shown in FIG. 3, in the game area 12, a number of obstacle nails (without reference numerals) are provided in a predetermined gauge arrangement, and a windmill 40 is provided at an appropriate position in the middle thereof. ing. At the center of the game area 12, there is a center feature 42 that attracts a lot of attention. The design of the center feature 42 characterizes the model of the pachinko machine 1, the game concept, and the like.

  The center accessory 42 is composed of a frame-like decorative body as a whole, and a character body 42a designed with the head of a racehorse is integrally attached to the upper edge portion thereof. Furthermore, decorative bodies 42b and 42c designed for the front legs of the racehorses are arranged on the left and right of the character body 42a. Of these, the right decorative body 42c can function as a movable accessory.

  The left and right side edges of the center accessory 42 are decorated with alphabet letters designed, and here the alphabet letters are emitted by a decoration lamp (LED) (not shown). In addition, a warp passage is formed along with a warp entrance (not shown) at the upper edge portion or the left and right side edge portions of the center accessory 42. When a game ball flowing down along the game board surface enters the warp entrance, the warp passage passes through the warp passage. It is taken inside the center accessory 42.

  A ball receiving shelf 42d is formed at the lower edge of the center accessory 42, and the ball receiving shelf 42d has a certain depth in the front-rear direction. The game ball taken in through the warp passage is released to the inside of the center accessory 42 and guided to the ball receiving shelf 42d. The ball receiving shelf 42d can roll a game ball on its upper surface and give various changes to its movement to add interest to the game. Alternatively, a movable body (not shown) is disposed on the ball receiving shelf 42d, and the movement of the game ball can be changed by the movable body.

  A ball guiding path 42e is formed at the center of the lower edge of the center accessory 42, and an inlet (not shown) to the ball guiding path 42e is formed on the upper surface of the ball receiving shelf 42d. Has been. The game ball that has dropped from the ball receiving shelf 42d to the entrance of the ball guiding path 42e is guided downward through the ball guiding path 42e.

  On the other hand, the exit of the ball guiding path 42e is open toward the front, and the game ball released from the exit falls almost downward. In the game area 12, a ball entry device 44 is arranged at a position immediately below the ball guide path 42e, and when a game ball enters the ball entry device 44, a start prize is awarded. Therefore, the game ball released from the ball guiding path 42e can be awarded with a start with a considerably high probability. The ball entry device 44 has a pair of left and right movable pieces 44a, and these movable pieces 44a can be expanded left and right to increase the probability of entry.

  Further, an attacker device 46 is disposed in the game area 12 at a position below the above-described ball entry device 44, and the attacker device 46 opens and closes the big prize opening by opening and closing the opening and closing member 46a. be able to.

  In addition, the game area 12 is provided with a starting gate port 48, a general winning port 50, and the like. Further, a liquid crystal display device 51 is disposed inside the center accessory 42, and in this liquid crystal display device 51, for example, an effect display by an image is performed.

  In the present embodiment, two multi-color LEDs 63 are further arranged at the lower edge of the center accessory 42, and the arrangement of these LEDs 65 can function as a normal symbol display device. The function of the normal symbol display device can be realized by turning on / off the LED 65. In the present embodiment, two multi-color LEDs 63 are further arranged on the lower edge of the center accessory 42, and the arrangement of these LEDs 63 can function as a game state display device. In the present embodiment, the function of the game state display device that displays the game state that is the internal state of the pachinko machine 1 can be realized by turning on / off the LED 63.

(3. Special symbol display device)
Further, in the present embodiment, four multicolor LEDs 52 are arranged on the left side of the character body 42a in the upper edge of the center accessory 42, and the arrangement of these LEDs 52 functions as a special symbol display device. Can do. The arrangement of the four LEDs 54 on the right side of the character body 42a is a start hold lamp.

In the present embodiment, the function of the special symbol display device can be realized by turning on / off the LED 52. For example, by changing the four LEDs 52 in various patterns in response to the start winning prize, the variation state of the special symbol can be displayed. When the predetermined fluctuation time is over, the stop state in which the special symbol is determined can be displayed by the turn-on / off display patterns of the four LEDs 52. Thereby, when the lottery is performed, the result information is displayed by turning on / off the LED 52 (display means). Further, the control of special symbol fluctuation display and stop display by turning on / off the LED 52 is performed by a main control board described later (display control means).

  Specifically, each LED 52 is provided with lighting colors of two colors (for example, red and green), whereby each LED 52 is “lighted off”, “lighted with lighting color 1”, and “lighted color 2”. The lighting / light-off display pattern can be switched in three ways of “lighting”. Accordingly, a total of 81 (34 = 81) lighting / light-off display patterns when four LEDs 52 are arranged can be prepared. Here, for convenience of explanation, only two colors are used, but the lighting color of the LED 52 may be three or more colors (preferably about seven colors). Further, the LEDs 52 need not be arranged in one place, may be arranged separately, and do not particularly need to be arranged on the board surface. Or you may display a special symbol by five or more LED, and you may display using 7 segment LED.

  FIG. 4 shows a list of 81 lighting / light-off display patterns. In the table of FIG. 4, the symbol “◯” represents “off” of the LED 52, the symbol “◎” represents “lighting with lighting color 1”, and the symbol “●” represents “lighting with lighting color 2”. ing. For this reason, for example, in Pattern No. 0, all LEDs 52 are “off”, but in Pattern No. 1, one LED 52 located at the right end is “Illuminated with Lighting Color 1”, and the other 3 One is understood to be in a “light-off” state.

  On the other hand, in the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment, four hit modes are prepared as modes in which the player is given a profit, and these are (1) “normal (non-probable) big hit”, (2) “ There are four types: “probable big hit”, (3) “short open probable hit”, and (4) “short open per hit”. As an example, in the table of FIG. 4, pattern numbers 15, 30, 41, 46, 47, 48, 49, 54, 59, 73, 76, and 79 are display patterns corresponding to “probability big hit” If a special symbol is stopped and displayed in these display patterns, a profit (high value-added profit) is given to the player.

  Similarly, pattern numbers 35 and 53 correspond to “short open probability variation”, and pattern numbers 40 (35), 61 (53), 50, 56, 69, and 75 correspond to “short open per change”. Numbers 63 (73) and 70 (54) correspond to “ordinary (non-probable) big hit”. It should be noted that the pattern numbers marked with parentheses indicate that display patterns that are very similar are provided for “short opening probability variation per hit” and “short open per hit”. For example, the pattern numbers 40 and 35 are very similar to each other in the combination of turning on / off display, and it is difficult to distinguish the display patterns at first glance from these display modes. Here, similarly, pattern numbers 61 and 53 are very similar.

  Also, the pattern numbers 63 and 70 corresponding to “normal (non-probable change) big hit” and the pattern numbers 73 and 54 corresponding to “probable big hit” are very similar to each other. Is difficult to distinguish.

  As described above, the display pattern shown in FIG. 4 represents the symbol display mode (display eye) when the special symbol display device 60 is stopped. As can be seen from FIG. In the pachinko machine 1 of the embodiment, the lottery result and the subsequent internal state are not easily determined from the symbol display mode of the special symbol display device 60 basically. That is, in this embodiment, by preparing a variety of display patterns for special symbols and display patterns that are very similar among a plurality of winning types, the player can read the lottery results from the display mode of the special symbols. The emphasis is on the fact that the lottery result and the internal state can be estimated from the effect display by the liquid crystal display device 51 and the behavior of the attacker device 46 and the like.

  Therefore, even if a “probable big hit” or “ordinary big hit” is won during the game, it is not clearly notified to the player in terms of performance. Further, even when the lottery probability is changed to a high value due to “probable big hit” or “short open probable hit”, the internal state is not clearly notified by character information such as “probably changing”. In addition, because there is no particular difference in the variation display mode (variation time etc.) of the special symbol depending on whether the internal state is a normal state (low probability) or a probability variation state (high probability), Even if the change display of the special symbol is seen, it cannot be determined that the player is “probably changing”. Therefore, the player basically plays the game without being provided with clear information about the type of the winning result and the internal probability state.

  However, when the four LEDs 52 are all lit, as in pattern numbers 15 and 30 in FIG. 4, for example, it is easy to make a visual judgment. In this embodiment, these lighting patterns correspond to “probable big hit”. Assigned as a thing (so-called “iron plate pattern”). This leaves a possibility that the player can clearly read the winning type by the display pattern (display eye) when the special symbol display device 60 is stopped.

(4. Hit mode)
Next, details of each hit mode are as follows.
(1) “Normal (non-probable change) big hit” is, for example, a round operation that opens and closes the attacker device 46 in a certain pattern for a maximum of 30 seconds and repeats up to 10 rounds. It is called. The player can win a lot of prize balls by winning the game balls in the big prize opening during the big hit game. Note that each round operation ends when either 30 seconds elapses or 10 winning balls are counted. The jackpot game ends when the round operation ends 10 times.

  (2) The “probable big hit” is to enable a big hit game similar to the above (1), but after the big hit game is finished, the probability of the next big hit is set higher than normal (for example, the normal big hit game) When the jackpot probability is 1/320, a privilege of changing to 5 / fold 1/64) is added. For this reason, when the player wins a promising big hit, the next big hit probability becomes high, and it is possible to continuously win the big hit (so-called consecutive resort).

  (3) “Short opening probability variation hit” is, for example, a round operation of opening the big winning opening for 0.3 seconds twice, and the interval between rounds is 2 seconds. This short opening probability change is ended when the attacker device 46 is opened only twice for a relatively short time (0.3 seconds). If a prize is won in the big winning slot during this time, a specified number (for example, 15) of prize balls will be paid out, but not as many prize-winning opportunities as in the big hit game. However, if the player wins a short-open probability change hit, there is a privilege that the probability of the next big hit lottery is set high (1/64), so that the continuity of the big hit game can be expected in the same way as in the case of the probability change big hit. Become.

  (4) “Short-per-open” is the same mode as “Short-open-probable per-change” in the operation of the attacker device 46, but the bonus for changing the big-hit lottery probability is not added. That is, when the short opening is reached, the attacker device 46 is terminated only by opening it twice for a relatively short time (0.3 seconds). However, a predetermined number (for example, 15) of winning balls can be paid out when winning a big winning opening during this period.

  In addition, the specific numerical value said by said (1)-(4) is the best thing in implementation of this invention. In addition, these numerical values can be variously changed and are not limited by the best numerical values.

  The probability of winning the winning modes (1) to (4) by lottery during a game is represented by, for example, Table 1 below.

(5. Maintenance lottery)
In this embodiment, when the probability variation state (high probability state) is caused by the “probability big hit” in (2) or “short open probability variation” in (3), the probability variation state is maintained with every start prize as a trigger. A lottery (falling lottery) is performed. The maintenance lottery is performed with a certain probability (for example, 1/640). When the lottery is lost with this maintenance lottery, a process of internally returning from the high probability state to the low probability state (normal probability) is performed.

(6. Control configuration)
FIG. 5 schematically shows a control configuration for controlling the operation of the pachinko machine 1. In FIG. 5, the configuration related to the power supply (power supply board and the like) is not shown. The control of the pachinko machine 1 is roughly divided into a main board group and a peripheral board group, and among these, the main board group plays game operations (winning detection, winning judgment, special symbol display, prize ball payout, etc.) ), And a group of peripheral boards controls production operations (light emission decoration, sound output, liquid crystal display, etc.). In addition to this, the pachinko machine 1 is equipped with a power supply board, a launch control board, an interface board, and the like. However, since any known ones can be applied, a detailed description thereof is omitted here.

(6-1. Main board)
The main board includes a main control board 56 and a payout control board 58, and the main control board 56 is disposed on the back side of the game board 4. The other payout control board 58 is disposed on the back side of the main body frame 3 together with the prize ball device. The main control board 56 is equipped with electronic components such as a CPU 56c, ROM 56e, and RAM 56d, and executes various game control programs by these electronic components. The CPU 56c is configured to include a ROM 56e and a RAM 56d. On the other hand, the payout control board 58 is equipped with electronic components such as a CPU 58c, ROM 58e and RAM 58d, and executes various payout control programs using these electronic components. The CPU 58c is configured to include a ROM 58e and a RAM 58d. Bidirectional communication is performed between the main control board 56 and the payout control board 58 via the respective input / output interfaces 56a and 58a. For example, when the main control board 56 transmits a prize ball command, it responds to this. Then, an ACK signal is returned from the payout control board 58 to the main control board 56.

  The main control board 56 is connected to a special symbol display device 60 (LED 52), a normal symbol display device 65, and a game state display device 63 provided on the game board 4, as well as a ball entry device 44 and an attacker device 46. Are connected to a solenoid 62 for driving etc., a winning switch 64 for detecting a winning ball, a start hold lamp (not shown in FIG. 5), and the like. A payout motor 66 for driving the payout device is connected to one payout control board 58, and a motor index sensor, a prize ball count switch, and the like (none of which are shown) are connected to the payout control board 58. Yes.

(6-2. Peripheral board)
In addition to the sub-integrated board 68, the peripheral board includes, for example, a plurality of illumination control boards 70 and 72, a waveform control board 74, and the like. Between the main control board 56 and the sub-integrated board 68, communication in only one direction is performed between the input / output interface 56a and the input interface 68a. Even if a command is sent to 68, the reverse is not performed.

  The sub-integrated board 68 also has electronic components such as a CPU 68c, ROM 68e, and RAM 68d, and a predetermined effect control program can be executed by these electronic components. The CPU 68c is configured to incorporate a ROM 68e and a RAM 68d. Bidirectional communication is performed between the sub-integrated board 68 and the other illumination control boards 70 and 72 and the waveform control board 74 with the respective input / output interfaces 68b, 70a, 72a and 74a. The illumination control board 70 also includes electronic components such as a CPU 70c, ROM 70e, and RAM 70d, and a predetermined effect control program can be executed by these electronic components. The CPU 70c is configured to include a ROM 70e and a RAM 70d. On the other hand, the illumination control board 72 also has electronic parts such as a CPU 72c, ROM 72e, RAM 72d, etc., and a predetermined effect control program can be executed by these electronic parts. The CPU 72c is configured to incorporate a ROM 72e and a RAM 72d. The electrical decoration control board 72 further includes a RAM 72f and a ROM 72g (shown as “CROM” in the drawing).

  For example, a lamp (LED) 76 for decoration is mainly connected to the first lighting control board 70, and a lighting signal for the lamp 76 is transmitted from the sub-integrated board 68 to the lighting control board 70. Then, in response to this, the illumination control board 70 performs a process of turning on the lamp 76. Alternatively, a decoration lamp 78 is connected to the second illumination control board 72 together with the liquid crystal display device 51, and a display command for the liquid crystal display device 51 is transmitted from the sub-integrated board 68 to the illumination control board 72. Then, in response to this, the illumination control board 72 performs a process of actually operating the liquid crystal display device 51. In addition to this, for example, in the case where an actor performing an effect operation by a movable body such as a drum or a character body is provided on the board surface, loads such as a motor and a solenoid for driving these are controlled by the illumination control boards 70 and 72. Connected to etc.

  The waveform control board 74 executes processing for generating and transmitting / receiving waveform signals such as inaudible ultrasonic waves as well as audible sound waves as acoustic outputs. The waveform control board 74 also has electronic components such as a CPU 74c, ROM 74e, and RAM 74d, and a predetermined effect control program can be executed by these electronic components. The CPU 74c is configured to incorporate a ROM 74e and a RAM 74d. The waveform control board 74 further has a ROM 74g (shown as “OROM” in the drawing). For example, when a sound output command is transmitted from the sub-integrated board 68 to the waveform control board 74, the waveform control board 74 performs processing for driving the speakers 14 and 36. In addition, an ultrasonic transmission / reception device 80 is connected to the waveform control board 74, and the ultrasonic transmission / reception device 80 enables ultrasonic communication between a plurality of platforms. Normally, a plurality of pachinko machines 1 are installed side by side in the island facility of the hall, but between the pachinko machines 1 equipped with the ultrasonic transmission / reception device 80, ultrasonic communication is possible. By using this communication function, a plurality of pachinko machines 1 can synchronize the effect operation or exchange game information between specific stands.

(7. Example of control processing)
Next, an example of control processing executed by the main control board 56 (CPU) will be described.

(7-1. Start winning process)
First, FIG. 6 shows a routine of the start winning process. In this start winning process, it is determined whether or not there is a start win during the game (step S101). Specifically, when a detection signal is input from a winning switch 64 (starting port switch) corresponding to the above-described pitching device 44, it is determined that there is a starting winning (YES). It is determined that there is no starting prize (NO).

  When it is determined that there is a start prize (step S101 = YES), it is next determined whether or not the number of start suspensions is less than the maximum of four (step S102). If the start pending number has already reached 4 at this time (NO), the start winning process routine is returned as it is. On the other hand, if the number of start-up holds is less than 4 (YES), a hold storage process is performed next (step S103). In the hold storage process, for example, “1” is added to the hold number counter secured in the RAM, and the number of lighting of the start hold lamp 54 is increased by one.

  In the hold storage process, a random value is acquired together. The random value acquired at this time includes, for example, random numbers for hit determination, random numbers for win symbols, random numbers for variable fluctuation (variable fluctuation counter), etc. for different purposes. Among these, the random number for winning determination determines whether the lottery result is a win or not, and in the case of a win, whether it is the above-mentioned “normal big hit”, “probable big hit” or “short open positive change” Or a random number for determining whether it is “per short opening”. In this embodiment, “normal big hit”, “probability big hit”, “short open positive change hit” and “short open hit per change” are acquired based on a common random number (0 to 65535). For the lottery of “per short opening” not related to the operation of, a dedicated random number may be used.

  The next winning design random number is used when the winning determination random number is determined to be winning, and more specifically, the display pattern that is stopped and displayed by the special symbol display device 60 (in FIG. 4). This is a random number for specifying the pattern number of the hit display. The variable variation random number (variable variation counter) is a random number for varying the symbol variation time by the special symbol display device 60 at the time of deviation variation, for example. When the above random number values are acquired and stored in, for example, the RAM, the suspension storage process is finished and the present routine is returned.

(7-2. Game operation processing)
Next, FIG. 7 shows a routine of the game operation process accompanying the start winning. In this game operation process, it is first determined whether or not there is a start suspension (step S201). Specifically, when the value of the hold number counter is not 0, it is determined that there is a start hold (YES), and then it is determined whether or not the special symbol is in an unchanged state (step S202). At this time, if the special symbol display device 60 has not yet started the fluctuation display (fluctuation display by blinking of the LED 52) (YES), then the hold shift process is executed (step S203).

  In the hold shift process, the value of the hold number counter is decremented by “1”, and the process of shifting the contents of each random number value stored in the hold storage area of the RAM is performed. Following this, symbol variation processing is executed (step S204). Here, the variation time of the special symbol, the setting of the display pattern when the variation is stopped, and the like are performed. The contents of the symbol variation process will be described later in detail using still another flowchart (FIGS. 8 and 10).

  When the above-described symbol variation process (step S204) is completed, an information output process (step S205) is then executed. Here, a control information command is generated and transmitted from the main control board 56 to the sub-integrated board 68. . Based on the received control information command, the sub-integrated board 68 interprets the control information of the main control board 56 (presence / absence of start winning / holding, special symbol fluctuation / stop display mode, hit determination result, probability fluctuation, etc.) Then, a predetermined production operation is controlled.

  In the game operation process of FIG. 7, a hit determination process (step S206) is finally performed. Note that the value of the hold number counter is 0 at the start of the game operation process (step S201 = NO), or the special symbol display device 60 is changing even if the value of the hold number counter is not 0 (step S202 = If NO, in either case, the information output process (step S205) and the hit determination process (step S206) are executed bypassing the hold shift process (step S203) and the symbol variation process (step S204).

In the hit determination process (step S206), the hit flag (1 or 2) set at the start of the variation of the special symbol is referred to, and if the hit flag is set, another process (FIG. 11) is executed. For details on the process of setting the hit flag and the content of the hit determination process,
This will be described in detail later using different flowcharts (FIGS. 9 and 11).

(7-3. Special figure variation setting process A)
Next, details of the symbol variation process (step S204) performed in the game operation process of FIG. 7 will be described.
FIG. 8 shows the contents of the special figure variation setting process A included in the symbol variation process. In the special figure variation setting process A, the special symbol display device 60 mainly sets the variation time and selects the display pattern at the time of stop according to the lottery result. Specifically, the result of the lottery is determined based on the already acquired random numbers for winning determination (step S301). If the winning (winning) is determined (YES), the hit fluctuation setting process (step S302) is performed. Executed. Here, “winning” means that either (1) the normal big hit, (2) the probability variation big hit, (3) the short opening probability variation, or (4) the short opening per hit.

  On the other hand, if the result of the lottery is out of lane, that is, it is determined that none of (1) to (4) is true (NO), the variable fluctuation random number already obtained (variable fluctuation) The value of the counter is compared with a predetermined value (for example, 1024) (step S303). The variable fluctuation random number is acquired within a range of 0 to 65535, for example. If this random number value is less than 1024 (YES), the variable fluctuation setting process (step S304) is executed. On the contrary, if the value of the random number for variable fluctuation is 1024 or more (NO), the fluctuation timer is set through each determination in step S305 or step S306. The variation timer is a timer for setting the variation time by the special symbol display device 60. Specifically, if the current start pending number is 0 (step S305 = YES), the predetermined variation timer is relatively small. The longer 10 seconds are set (step S307). Similarly, if the start suspension number is 1 (step S306 = YES), the fluctuation timer is set to a relatively medium 8 seconds, and if the start suspension number is 2 or more (step S306 = NO), the fluctuation timer changes. The timer is set to a relatively short 6 seconds (so-called hold time short). In any case, when the variation timer is set, a special symbol stop pattern is subsequently selected (steps S310 to S312). The stop pattern is appropriately selected from the on / off display patterns that do not correspond to any hit mode in FIG.

  When the above special figure fluctuation setting process A is summarized, if the lottery result corresponds to any hit, the special symbol fluctuation display is started after another hit fluctuation setting process (step S302) is executed. (Step S313). On the other hand, if the lottery result does not correspond to any hit (displacement), another variable variation setting process (step S304) with a distribution ratio of 1/64 according to the value of the acquired variable variation random number (variable variation counter). ) Is executed, but in other cases (63/64), the change display of the special symbol is started after the time of the change timer is set in three stages according to the number of pending start (step S313) It becomes.

(7-4. Variable variation setting process)
Here, the variable variation setting process in step S304 is based on the conventional concept of “outlier reach variation”. In other words, when the symbol is removed by lottery, the variation time of the special symbol is gradually shortened according to the number of start suspensions (steps S307 to S309). By changing the variation time to be longer or shorter, or changing the special symbol stop pattern, it is difficult to make the player notice that the variation is out of place. In this variable fluctuation setting process, for example, the fluctuation time is distributed according to the table shown in Table 2 below.

  In the pachinko machine 1 according to the present embodiment, since there is no effect synchronized with the change / stop of the special symbol (for example, the conventional decoration symbol change / stop display, etc.) There is no need to perform “outlier reach fluctuations” to increase For this reason, the setting of the variation time of the special symbol may be basically based on the concept of “short holding time”, but if the setting of the variation time is always fixed, it becomes easier for the player to be aware of “going out”.

  In consideration of this point, by executing the variable variation setting process described above, even if the lottery result is out of the range, “outreach reach variation” is performed at an appearance rate of 1/64. In this regard, in view of the fact that the conventional “displacement reach fluctuation” was performed at a relatively high appearance rate of about 1/11, in this embodiment, a long time for the purpose of providing a space between players. It can be said that the fluctuation is suppressed to a low appearance rate of 1/64. Therefore, from the player's perspective, it is less likely to show “outside reach fluctuations” that are unrelated to hits at a long time, and from the hall operator's perspective, there is a situation where operation is reduced due to various “outside reach fluctuations”. There are advantages to both because it is avoided.

(7-5. Hit variation setting process)
FIG. 9 shows the contents of the above-mentioned hit variation setting process (step S302 in FIG. 8). Here, when the lottery result is a win, it can be roughly divided into the setting of the fluctuation time in the case of `` normal big hit '' and `` probable big hit '', and in the case of `` short open positive change '' and `` The setting of the variation time is shared by the case of “per short opening”.

  That is, if it is determined in step S401 that it corresponds to “per short opening” (YES) or it is determined in step S402 that it corresponds to “short open probability variation” (YES), both cases are common. A short opening per change setting process (step S403) is executed. In step S403, using the value of the variable variation random number (variable variation counter), for example, the variation time is distributed in four ways according to the table shown in Table 3 below.

  Since the value of the variable fluctuation counter is acquired within the range of 0 to 65535, the fluctuation is usually applied to the fluctuation setting process per short opening in most cases (255/256 of appearance rate). As a result, a normal variation timer corresponding to the number of pending start-ups is set at a considerably high appearance rate, so that the player can hardly distinguish from a normal deviation variation. When the above short open per-change variation setting process is executed, “2” is set to the internal hit flag (step S405), and this routine is returned.

  On the other hand, if “normal big hit” or “probability big hit” is true, the determinations in step S401 and step S402 are both denied (NO). In this case, the common big hit fluctuation setting process (step S404) is executed. The In this step S404, using the value of the variable fluctuation random number (variable fluctuation counter) from 0 to 65535, for example, the fluctuation time is distributed in six ways according to the table shown in Table 4 below. When this big hit variation setting process is executed, "1" is set to the internal hit flag (step S406), and this routine is returned.

(7-6. Special figure change execution process B)
Next, FIG. 10 shows the contents of the special figure variation execution process B included in the symbol variation process (step S204 in FIG. 7). When the variation of the special symbol is started by the special symbol variation setting process A, it is determined here whether or not it is during the variation period (step S501). Specifically, whether or not it is during the fluctuation period can be determined by referring to the above-described fluctuation timer. If the fluctuation timer is activated, it is determined that the fluctuation period is in effect (YES). Conversely, if the variation timer is stopped, it is determined that the variation period is not in effect (NO).

  If it is determined in step S501 that the special symbol is changing, a change display control process (step S502) is executed. Here, for the two two-color LEDs 52 constituting the special symbol display device 60, for example, counter values of 0 to 15 are acquired and assigned to 8-bit values, and a total of eight switches (two colors are used by using these values). A process of switching ON / OFF of LED × 4) every 40 ms is performed. Thereby, the high-speed fluctuation | variation by the special symbol display apparatus 60 is implement | achieved, while four 2 color LED52 blinks. Here, the lighting / extinguishing of the LED 52 is controlled with reference to the counter value, but the lighting / extinguishing pattern of the LED 52 can be switched using, for example, a predetermined variation pattern table.

  Thereafter, when the variation timer counts up and the variation period ends, it is determined that it is not during the variation period of the special symbol (NO), and then stop pattern display control (step S503) is executed. In this stop pattern display control, the special symbol display device 60 uses the stop pattern lighting / light-off display pattern data already selected in the special symbol variation setting process A (FIG. 8), the hit variation setting process (FIG. 9), or the like. Sent to. The pattern data need not be transmitted every interrupt cycle (for example, 4 ms), and it is preferable to adjust the light emission luminance of the LED 52 by sampling appropriately.

(7-7. Hit determination process)
FIG. 11 shows the contents of the hit determination process (step S206 in FIG. 7) included in the game operation process. This winning determination process is executed when the lottery result is a win, and is not executed when the lottery is lost. Here, when the lottery result is a win, the operation pattern of the attacker device 46 is set according to the type of the win.

From the processing order, it is determined whether or not the lottery result is “per short opening” (step S601). If the determination here is negative (NO), then the lottery result is “short opening probability change”. It is determined whether or not it is “winning” (step S602). Accordingly, when the result of the lottery is “ordinary big hit” or “probability big hit”, the determination is also denied (NO) here, so step S603 is executed next. In step S603, the maximum setting period for the operation pattern of the attacker device 46 is set to 30 seconds, the maximum setting continuation number (maximum number of rounds) is set to 10 rounds, and the setting interval is set to 2 seconds. .

  On the other hand, when the result of the lottery is “short open probability change hit”, the determination in step S602 is affirmed (YES), and then step S604 is executed. In step S604, the setting maximum period for the operation pattern of the attacker device 46 is set to 0.3 seconds, the setting maximum duration (maximum number of rounds) is set to 2 rounds, and the setting interval is set to 2 seconds. Is done. When step S603 or step S604 is executed, the big hit process (step S605) is executed by operating the condition device internally.

  On the other hand, when the result of the lottery is “per short opening”, the determination in step S601 is affirmed (YES), and the short opening per process (step S606) is executed. In this short opening per unit processing, the condition device is not operated internally, but in order to realize a behavior that is the same as or similar to the “short open probability variation per unit” in appearance, the attacker device 46 is simply operated. First, the grand prize opening is opened for 0.3 seconds, and after closing it for an interval of 2 seconds, the grand prize opening is opened again for 0.3 seconds and then closed again. .

(7-8. Big hit processing)
FIG. 12 shows the contents of the big hit process (step S605 in FIG. 11) included in the hit determination process. When the condition device operates internally and the big hit process is executed, first, a predetermined round counter is initialized (step S701). The round counter is secured in, for example, the RAM, and the value of the round counter is reset with the initialization. The round counter is for counting the number of rounds in the big hit game, and when the value reaches the set maximum number of times, the big hit process ends.

  After the round counter is initialized, when a predetermined winning ball number counter is set to “0” (step S702), the special winning opening is subsequently opened (step S703). Then, in the next step S704, it is determined whether or not the opening period of the special winning opening is within the set maximum period. The time (30 seconds or 0.3 seconds) set in step S603 or step S604 during the previous hit determination process is applied to the maximum set period here. If the opening period is within the set maximum period (YES), it is then determined whether or not the value of the winning ball counter is less than 10 (step S705). At this time, if the value of the winning ball counter is less than 10 (YES), it is determined whether or not the detection signal of the count sensor corresponding to the big winning opening is turned on (step S706). If the count sensor is turned ON by winning a prize at the big winning opening (YES), “1” is added to the winning ball counter in the next step S707, and the determination in step S704 is performed again. Alternatively, if there is no winning in the big winning opening in step S706 and the count sensor is not ON (NO), the determination in step S704 is performed without adding the winning ball number counter.

  In the case of “ordinary big hit” or “probable big hit”, one round is ended when either the set maximum period of 30 seconds elapses or the winning ball reaches 10 counts. Become. If either of these two conditions is satisfied, the determination in step S704 or step S705 is negative (NO), so that the big prize opening is closed to end the round (step S708). Then, in the next step S709, it is determined whether or not the value of the round counter has reached the set maximum continuation count (10 rounds).

  On the other hand, in the case of “short opening probability variation hit”, the set maximum period is as short as 0.3 seconds. For this reason, the winning ball counter does not normally reach 10, and the determination of step S709, that is, the round counter reaches the set maximum number of times (2 rounds) after the set maximum period of 0.3 seconds elapses first. It is determined whether or not.

  In any case, if the value of the round counter has not reached the set maximum number of times (10 or 2) (step S709 = NO), then “1” is added to the value of the round counter (step S710) and the winning ball The number counter is reset to “0” (step S702).

  The above processing corresponds to the processing of the first round during “normal big hit”, “probability big hit”, or “short open probability big hit”. Thereafter, when the round operation is repeated and it is determined that the value of the round counter has reached the set maximum continuation number (10 or 2) (step S709 = YES), the big hit processing is ended there.

(8. Game mode / lottery probability changing means)
As already described, in the pachinko machine 1 according to the present embodiment, when the big hit game by “probable big hit” or “short open probable hit” is finished, the game mode from there is changed to so-called “probable change (at high probability)”. (First game mode → second game mode). While the game mode is “probability”, the probability of winning a big hit is five times the normal (at low probability), so the player can continuously win the next big hit with a high probability. .

  In this regard, in the conventional probability variation type pachinko machine, the special symbol (decorative symbol) at the time of the big hit is notified to the player whether it is “probable big hit” or “probably changing” after the big hit game, etc. In most cases, the player is notified of the fact that it is “probable change” by displaying the character information. On the other hand, in the pachinko machine 1 according to the present embodiment, even if it is shifted to “probability change” internally by “probability big hit” or “short open probability change hit”, the internal state at that time is clear to the player. Not announced. In addition, since the display patterns by the special symbol display device 60 are diverse (81 ways), the player simply looks at the display mode at the time of stop by the special symbol display device 60 (the combination mode of turning on / off the LED 52). It is difficult to immediately determine whether the “probable big hit” has been assigned, the “normal (non-probable) big hit” has been assigned, or simply “displaced”. Of course, when the “normal big hit” or “probable big hit” is made, the jackpot game is enabled by the operation of the condition device, so that the player can detect that either “big hit” was obtained, but clearly Which “big hit” is not easily recognized.

  In addition to this, in this embodiment, there is a mode of “short opening probability variation hit” in which the big prize opening is performed for 0.3 seconds only twice, and then the game mode is shifted to “probability variation”. However, most players do not notice the opening / closing action of the attacker device 46 at all, or even if they notice it, it is not easy to enter the big winning opening within the opening period of the “short opening probability variation”. If the player happens to be aware of the opening / closing action of the attacker device 46, it can be predicted that it may have been a “short open probability variation hit”. Since “per short opening” in which the opening / closing action is performed also exists in this embodiment, “short opening probable per hit” and “per short opening” are simply determined by focusing on the movement of the attacker device 46 and the related performance action. It is not easy to determine.

(9. Features of one embodiment)
In summary, the following features are found in the game in the pachinko machine 1 of one embodiment.
(1) Even if it is a “big hit” for the first time in a normal game mode (at low probability), that fact is not clearly notified, so just watching the display when the special symbol is stopped gives the player However, it is not easy to determine whether it is “normal big hit” or “probable big hit”. After that, since the variation display mode (variation time, etc.) of the special symbol is the same in the normal state (at low probability) and the probability variation state (at high probability), the player can see the variation display of the special symbol. Cannot be determined as “probably changing”. Therefore, the player can maintain a high sense of expectation and willingness to play the next “big hit” while expecting that the game mode has shifted to “probability change” after the big hit game has ended. In addition, in the specification of the pachinko machine 1, in view of the fact that the distribution rate of “probable big hit” is 12/16 and the distribution rate of “normal big hit” is 2/16, in many cases, “ It is easy to expect that it has shifted to “Changing”.

  (2) In addition to “probable big hit”, there is a possibility that the game state may shift to “probable change” triggered by “short open probable hit”, so that the player can perform an opening / closing action of the attacker device 46 and a related production operation. If you notice, even if you haven't paid a big hit yet, expecting a transition from normal gaming to “probable change”, and maintaining high expectations and willingness to win a big hit from there be able to.

(3) However, due to the specifications of the pachinko machine 1, the distribution rate of “short open probability variation” with the operation of the condition device is suppressed to the same level as “normal big hit” (2/16), and it appears as it is The rate is low and the appeal to the player is relatively low. As a supplement to this point, there is a separate “Short Open Per Open” that shows the same behavior as the “Short Open Probability Hit” without opening the condition device (opening / closing action of the attacker device 46 and related stage action). By combining this "probability per short opening probability" hit probability (1/128) with the appearance rate of "per short opening probability variation",
Players are given the opportunity to touch either one at a relatively high frequency.

  (4) For this reason, for example, when the player touches the behavior of the opening / closing action of the attacker device 46 and the related production action in a normal game mode (at a low probability), the player becomes “probable change” by “short open probable hit”. While expecting that there may have been a transition, it is possible to maintain a high sense of expectation and willingness to play until the next "big hit" is awarded.

  (5) Also, when a player touches an opening / closing action of the attacker device 46 or a related production action at a certain point in time, even if it is actually merely “per short opening”, Since the next opening / closing action and related production action may occur while continuing, the player's expectation for the transition to “probability change” is not easily diminished.

  (6) Or, even if you are not blessed with an opportunity to shift to “probability”, if a player wins a “big hit” even once, expecting to go back to (1) above and shift to “probability” As the feelings come out, the willingness to play will increase further while expecting the next big hit.

As described above, in the pachinko machine 1 according to the present embodiment, there are few points where the player's expectation and willingness to play are interrupted, and the game is eager for a long time while maintaining a high expectation that a profit such as a big hit will always be obtained. Can work on.

  On the other hand, in the case of the player's turn in the hall, conventionally, only the condition of the nail adjustment was read or the table was selected by looking at the data such as the number of rotations and the number of hits per table. Then, it will be interesting to find a table that has been abandoned without knowing that the previous player has entered “probability” internally.

(10. Game mode maintenance / demotion determination process)
As described above, the fact that the game mode shifts to “probable change” for some time is a factor that enhances the interest of the pachinko machine 1, but in this embodiment, another aspect is further elaborated. Specifically, when the game mode shifts to “probability change” internally, for example, a lottery (whether so-called relegation / falling etc. ) Is performed (mode maintenance lottery means).

FIG. 13 shows the contents of the game state maintenance / demotion determination process for executing the above lottery. As described above, when the game mode shifts to “probability change”, the main control board 56 executes the processing of FIG. Here, first, a lottery is performed as to whether or not the game mode should be maintained as “probability change” using a random number value acquired in response to the start winning (step S801). The lottery probability of the player who maintains the game mode is set to be relatively high, for example, 639/640, and the lottery is only lost with a considerably low probability of 1/640. If it does not fall in the lottery here (NO), this routine is returned as it is, but if it falls in the lottery (YES), “demotion determination” to the normal game mode is made.

  If the lottery is lost in the above lottery, then a loss variation setting process (step S802) is performed. Here, using the value of the random number for variable fluctuation (variable fluctuation counter), for example, the fluctuation time is distributed in three ways according to the table shown in Table 5 below.

  Since the value of the variable fluctuation counter is acquired within the range of 0 to 65535, the normal fluctuation is applied in most cases in this defeat selection fluctuation setting process. As a result, a normal variation timer corresponding to the number of pending start-ups is set with a considerably high appearance rate, so that the player can hardly distinguish from a normal deviation variation, and in particular, the demotion from "probability variation" It is impossible to immediately determine what has been done. In the selection change setting process, a predetermined stop symbol (outgoing display pattern) is also selected.

  When the above-described selection change setting process is executed, “0” is set to the internal game state flag (step S803), and this routine is returned. After this, the game mode flag is “0”, so that the internal game mode is pulled back to the normal time.

  With such a specification, even if it shifts to “probability change” once, there is a possibility that it will be a big hit with a high probability in every starting prize from there, conversely from “probability change” with a probability of 1/640. It can be said that there is a possibility of being demoted. Therefore, even if the player is currently expecting a “probable” game mode, he can always play the game while feeling close to the big hit and the risk of falling. Therefore, a thrilling interest is added there.

  In this way, in this embodiment, even if it shifts to `` probability change '' once, there is a possibility that it will win the next `` big hit '', conversely, it will be lost in the maintenance lottery, and from there it will be in the normal probability state It can be said that there is a possibility of being demoted. Based on the possibility of demotion due to such a maintenance lottery, in this embodiment, the rate of transition to “probability change” at the time of hitting is relatively high (accuracy change in 14/16, non-probability change in 2/16) ), Which increases the player's expectation and avoids the player becoming more unilaterally advantageous than the hall operator.

  Hereinafter, processing of the main control board, which is a feature of the present invention, will be described.

(11. Processing at power-off)
FIG. 14 shows a power shut-off process executed when power supply is stopped due to a power failure or the like.

  FIG. 15 and FIG. 16 show the power-on process that is executed when the supply of power is popularized.

  Note that the main loop process, which is a process related to the progress of the game, and a timer interrupt that periodically generates an interrupt during the execution of the main loop process and performs the process related to the progress of the game like the main loop process. The processing will be briefly described without being particularly shown.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure of power-off processing.
First, the main control board 56 manages the game state flag indicating the game state in the RAM 56d built in the CPU 56c. For example, in the probability change state, the game state flag indicates the game state flag indicating the game state, for example. Is set to “1”, or in the normal state, the game state flag is set to “0”.

  In step S901, interruption of the timer interrupt process is prohibited, and in step S902, a checksum of the work value in the RAM 56d is calculated and the checksum value is stored. Further, access to the RAM 56d is prohibited (step S903). In this state, the setting value (game state information) of the game state flag is stored in a part of the RAM 56d as indicating the game state when the power supply is stopped.

  Here, a part of the RAM 56d that stores the game state flag operates as a backup function without data volatilization even when power supply is stopped. For this reason, the setting value of the game state flag stored in a part of the RAM 56d does not volatilize even when the power supply is stopped. In step S904, a loop process for looping a predetermined address is performed. During this period, the watchdog timer is not reset, and is continued until the CPU 56c of the main control board 56 is reset.

(12. Power-on processing)
FIG. 15 and FIG. 16 are flowcharts showing an example of the procedure of power-on processing.
First, the outline will be briefly described. The pachinko machine 1 in the present embodiment generates a RAM clear signal in response to a power supply start operation, and a game stored in a part of the RAM 56d by the generation of the RAM clear signal. The setting value of the state flag is initialized (initialization operation means). At that time, the pachinko machine 1 teaches information regarding whether or not the game state is in a probable change state when the RAM clear signal is generated (information teaching means). Hereinafter, an example of operation will be described more specifically.

  First, in step S1001, initial setting of the CPU 56c is performed, and settings such as I / O definition settings and interrupt mode settings are performed. Next, in step S1002, whether or not a RAM clear switch (not shown) is pressed, that is, the ON / OFF state of the RAM clear signal as an initialization operation signal is acquired in a predetermined register. Next, in step S1003, a loop process is performed. In this loop process, a predetermined value is set in the counter, and a subtraction process for subtracting the value of the counter is performed, whereby a waiting process for a predetermined time is performed.

  In step S1004, access permission is set for the main control board 56 to the RAM 56d. The processing in step S1004 corresponds to a part of the CPU initial processing in step S1001, but considering the influence of noise, the access prohibition state is canceled immediately before the processing for actually accessing the RAM 56d is executed. Yes. Then, an initial address of the stack pointer relating to the stack of the RAM 56d is set (step S1005).

  Next, referring to the ON / OFF state acquired in a predetermined register, it is determined whether the RAM clear switch at the time of power-on is ON or OFF (step S1006). The process proceeds to step S1007, and if it is ON, the process proceeds to step S1009. In step S1007, a checksum is calculated, and the calculated checksum value is determined (step S1008). In step S1008, the checksum value calculated here is compared with the checksum value stored when the power is turned off. If normal, the process proceeds to step S1011. If not normal, the process proceeds to step S1010. .

  On the other hand, in step S1009, the game state flag set value (game state information) is saved in the register, and in step S1010, the entire work area of the RAM 56d is cleared.

  In step S1011, a status command is created based on the information game mode information saved in the register. That is, the state command is created based on the game state information in the game state flag area.

  Specifically, in step S1011, information on the save destination register (the setting value of the game state flag) is confirmed, and a state command is created. Specifically, when the game state flag is “1”, for example, a state command indicating “5000H” is created. Here, the state command of this set value represents, for example, a command indicating that it is going to be initialized despite being in a high probability state (probability variation state). On the other hand, when the game state flag is “0”, for example, no command is generated.

  Further, in step S1011, a power-on command is created when power is turned on. As a default value (initial value) of the power-on command, for example, “3001H (represents RAM clear processing)” is set.

  In step S1011, when the game state flag is “1” with reference to the set value of the game state flag of the work in the RAM 56d, the default value (initial value) of the high probability state (probability change state) is set to “ The value is rewritten by adding “0002H” (for example, “3001H” is “3003H”). On the other hand, when the game state flag is “0”, the value is rewritten by adding, for example, “0001H” to the default value (initial value) of the low probability state (normal state) (for example, “3001H”). "3002H)") In other words, when the power is turned on and the system is restored from the backup, "3002H" is created as the status command if it is in the probable state, and "3003H" is created in the normal state. It is. In step S1011, the work (work area) in the RAM 56d is also initialized.

  Next, in step S1012, the interrupt is initially set, and the timer interrupt cycle is set to 4 ms, for example, as the timer interrupt processing setting. In step S1013, a status command transmission reservation is made. Specifically, when there is a state command (“5000H”) created in this way, transmission reservation is performed by setting this state command in a command transmission area as a transmission buffer. If there is no status command, nothing is stored in the command transmission area.

  In step S1014, a transmission reservation for the power-on command is made. Specifically, the power-on command (“3001H”, “3001H”, “3002H”) created in this way is set in a command transmission area as a transmission buffer. In step S1015, timer interrupt processing is permitted. Then, when the power-on process up to the permission of the timer interrupt process in step S1015 is finished, the process finally shifts to the main loop process.

(13. Main loop processing and timer interrupt processing)
In the main loop process, a power failure signal is determined, and when the power failure signal is ON, the process proceeds to the power-off process, and when the power failure signal is OFF, the process proceeds to a non-winning random number update process. In this non-winning random number update process, for example, the initial value of the winning random number, the fluctuation pattern random number, the reach random number, etc., other than the winning random number (random number for jackpot determination) are updated, and the process returns to the power failure signal determination process.

  During execution of the main loop process, the timer interrupt process is executed at the interrupt cycle set in the power-on process. In the timer interrupt processing, processing related to the progress operation of the game, such as detection of a start winning signal, winning random number update processing (updating of a big hit determination random number), opening control of a big winning opening, and the like are performed.

  During execution of the main loop process, the command (status command, game state command) reserved for transmission in step S1013 in the power-on process (not shown) in the sub-integrated board command transmission process in the timer interrupt process that occurs first. Is transmitted to the sub-integrated board 68.

  When the sub-integrated board 68 receives the status command reserved for transmission in step S1013 (“5000H”), the probability variation state is cleared (initialized) in the illumination control board 72 connected to the sub-integrated board 68. A command for displaying the information on the liquid crystal display device 51 is transmitted. Alternatively, a command is sent to the waveform control board 74 for notifying the user that the probability variation state has been cleared (initialized) using a speaker.

  In order that the player can clearly understand that the probability variation state has been cleared, the illumination control board 72 displays the word “probability variation state has been cleared” on the liquid crystal display device 51 for about 30 seconds ( An example of teaching). In addition, the waveform control board 74 repeatedly informs the speaker of “the probability variation state has been cleared” for about 30 seconds (an example of teaching) from the speaker.

(14. Reference to usefulness of this embodiment)
Here, in the pachinko machine 1 according to the present embodiment, a case is assumed in which, for example, an employee in a hall tries to manipulate a game mode illegally against the player's will. First, in the pachinko machine 1 according to the present embodiment, the game state that is the internal state may be changed to a normal state or may be changed to a probable state as the game progresses. When the game mode is in the probable state, the lottery probability is set higher than in the normal state, so if the player assumes that the game mode is in the probable state, it will be a big hit soon. The game can be continued while raising the motivation for the game while expecting that the profit can be enjoyed.

  Here, for example, if a malfunction occurs in the pachinko machine 1 during a game, the hall employee will deal with the malfunction, but at this time, the hall employee will play a game without the player's knowledge. There is a risk of changing the state (returning from the probability change state to the normal state). Specifically, the hall employee tries to change the game mode illegally by performing initialization processing such as so-called RAM clear, pretending to deal with the trouble that occurred in the pachinko machine 1 Is mentioned.

  When the game mode is in the normal state, the lottery probability is originally set relatively low, so even if such a RAM clear is performed, the lottery probability is not changed and the player has a great influence. It is thought not to receive.

  On the other hand, when the game mode is in the probable state, the lottery probability is set to a relatively high value. Therefore, when such a RAM clear is performed, the game mode is internally changed from the probable state to the normal state. The state is changed and the lottery probability is set to be relatively low. In the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment, the game mode is not disclosed directly to the outside, and the game mode is searched while allowing the player to observe the behavior of the game machine or applying the player's empirical rules. Or entertaining the game while guessing. For this reason, at first glance, the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment makes it difficult for the player to notice the change in the game mode even if such fraud is performed, and the player recognizes that the lottery probability has been changed. It seems that you can't.

  However, in the pachinko machine 1 according to the present embodiment, for example, when a hall employee operates a power switch, a RAM clear signal is output, and whether or not the game state is in a promising state triggered by the occurrence of the RAM clear signal. The pachinko machine 1 teaches information on the outside. For this reason, the player can recognize that the lottery probability is improperly set to be relatively low against the intention. Therefore, according to the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment, the player can easily find out that the game mode is about to be changed illegally against the player's will. Here, it is needless to say that the “outside of the pachinko machine 1” taught may include, for example, a part of the island facility where the pachinko machine 1 is arranged in the hall as well as the game board and the frame. Absent.

  Further, in the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment, when the lottery probability is changed high (changed to the probable change state) by “probable big hit (high value-added profit)” or “per short opening (low value-added profit)”. Even if it exists, the element which notifies that to a player clearly (for example, notification by character information, such as "probably changing" etc.) is not essential. As a result, the pachinko machine 1 according to the present embodiment allows the player to enjoy the game while observing the behavior of the gaming machine or applying the player's rule of thumb while searching for or guessing the game mode. is there.

  For this reason, in the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment, at first glance, for example, even if there is an illegal act that the game mode is changed illegally against the player's intention, it is difficult for the player to notice the change of the game mode, It seems that the player cannot recognize that the lottery probability has been changed.

  However, in the pachinko machine 1 according to the present embodiment, for example, when a hall employee turns on the power, the pachinko machine 1 teaches information regarding whether or not the game mode is in a probable state. Therefore, the player can recognize that the game mode is about to be illegally changed against the player's will. Therefore, according to the pachinko machine 1 in the present embodiment, the player can easily find out that the game mode is about to be changed illegally against the player's will.

  Further, in the pachinko machine 1 according to the present embodiment, it is difficult for the player to know whether the game state that is the internal state is the normal state or the probable state, and the “per short opening (small value profit)” Appearance does not impair game willingness. In the pachinko machine 1 according to the present embodiment, when the game mode is changed illegally against the player's will, it seems difficult for the player to understand at first glance. Even in such a case, according to the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment, even when the RAM clear switch is illegally operated, information regarding whether or not the game state is in a probable state is taught to the outside. The player can recognize that the game mode is about to be changed illegally against his will. Therefore, according to the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment, the player can easily find out that the game mode is about to be changed illegally against the player's will.

In the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment, such a maintenance lottery element is added, and since there is a possibility of falling from the probability variation state, the change to the probability variation state is more frequently performed as described above. It can be said that it can be realized. In spite of this, in the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment, if the game mode is illegally operated from the certain change state to the normal state contrary to the player's intention, at first glance, such a change to the certain change state may occur. It seems that the meaning of high-frequency changes disappears.

  However, in the pachinko machine 1 according to the present embodiment, even when the RAM clear switch is illegally operated, the pachinko machine 1 teaches information regarding whether or not the game state is in a certain change state to the outside. Therefore, the player can easily find out that the game mode is about to be illegally changed against the player's will. Therefore, according to the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment, it can be said that it is meaningful to realize the change to the probability variation state at a higher frequency by adding such a maintenance lottery element. Opportunities for enjoying profits by increasing the jackpot in the probability variation state in which the lottery probability is set to be relatively high are increased.

  In the pachinko machine 1 according to the present embodiment, it is desirable to stop teaching the information regarding whether or not the game mode is in the probabilistic state, for example, when a predetermined time has passed by a timer. Further, in the present embodiment, the teaching can be stopped in response to the start winning or the operation of the firing handle 18 in conjunction with or instead of this. In the present embodiment, the teaching can be completely stopped after a predetermined number of teachings.

(15. Production process)
The above is purely the contents of the processing related to the control of the game operation by the main control board 56, but when the sub integrated board 68 receives the control information command from the main control board 56, it executes various effect processes based on this. be able to.

  When there is a start prize, the main control board 56 performs random number acquisition, special symbol variation processing, etc., but in this embodiment, the special symbol variation or stop display and the effect display operation by the liquid crystal display device 51 are not necessarily synchronized. Absent. For example, even if special symbol change / stop display is performed on the special symbol display device 60 in response to a start winning every time during a normal game, the liquid crystal display device 51 is at a constant pace regardless of this. Continuous images (for example, images of racehorses being grazed, connected to stables, or being trained in a race) continue to be displayed. Similarly, since the conventional reach variation display method is not employed for the special symbol, the liquid crystal display device 51 does not perform the reach effect display using the decorative symbol.

  Instead, when the result of the hit determination is “ordinary big hit” or “probable big hit”, an animation image having a series of stories is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 51 before shifting to these big hit games, Then, when some kind of completion (for example, a racehorse wins a domestic race) is seen, it develops into a big hit game production (for example, the same racehorse runs in an overseas race). In addition, sound effects and the like are output from the speakers 14 and 36 in accordance with changes in the video.

  In addition to this, when it comes to “Short Open Probability Per Hit” or “Short Open Per Hit”, any related production action (for example, a visual change such as a racehorse changing position to a paddock or entering a start gate) (Changed video) is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 51, and BGM and sound effects are output from the speakers 14, 36.

  The player can continue the highly entertaining game while guessing the change of the internal state and the lottery result by touching the effect operation as described above.

(16. Second embodiment)
FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing an operation example of the pachinko machine as the second embodiment of the present invention.
The pachinko machine as the second embodiment can be configured substantially the same as the pachinko machine 1 as the first embodiment, and further performs substantially the same operation, so the same configuration is the same as the first embodiment. The description will be omitted using the same reference numerals, and different points will be mainly described below. In the pachinko machine as the second embodiment, in addition to the configuration of the pachinko machine 1 as the first embodiment, the RAM 56d (storage means) is initialized by the operation of the RAM clear switch, and the next power supply is started. A timer is provided as a time measuring means for measuring the period until the time. This timer has a function of counting down from a predetermined count value to 0, for example. The pachinko machine according to the second embodiment further includes a register that stores game state information saved from the RAM 56d when the RAM clear switch is operated when power supply is started.

  The RAM 56d has a game state flag area (game state storage area) and a game state history flag area (history storage area). The game state flag area is a storage area for storing game state information as a game state flag when power supply is stopped. On the other hand, the game state history flag area is a storage area for storing the game state information saved in the register after initialization of the RAM 56d. Here, the game mode information representing the first game mode representing the game mode when the power supply is stopped is referred to as “original game mode information”.

  In the second embodiment, when the time measured by the timer is equal to or longer than a predetermined time when power supply is started, a status command is created based on the game mode information saved in the register. On the other hand, when the time measured by the timer is not a predetermined time, a state command is created based on the game state information stored in the history storage area of the RAM 56d. That is, in the second embodiment, the original game mode information is surely secured regardless of whether the time measured by the timer is the predetermined time, and based on the secured original game mode information. A status command can be created. In the pachinko machine in the second embodiment, it is possible to reliably tell the outside whether or not the game mode is the second game mode based on the created state command.

The pachinko machine as the second embodiment is configured as described above, and an example of its operation will be described next.
FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing an operation example of the pachinko machine as the second embodiment of the present invention. In the following description, differences from the first embodiment will be mainly described.

In the pachinko machine as the second embodiment, when the entire area of the RAM 56d is initialized (step S1010), a timer (not shown) is also set and time counting is started (step S1010a).
). In the pachinko machine in the second embodiment, the power supply is stopped and the power supply is temporarily shut off.

  In the pachinko machine as the second embodiment, when the power is turned on again, the power-on process (from step S1001 to step S1008) is executed again. If the RAM clear switch is turned on when the power is turned on, the process proceeds to step S1006a. In step S1006a, it is determined whether or not the time measured by the timer is a predetermined time (for example, 0). Then, the process proceeds to step S1009.

  Here, the work area of the RAM 56d subjected to the RAM clear process is a storage area that can be initialized by the operation of the RAM clear switch. Therefore, the game state information stored in the work area (game state flag area) of the RAM 56d when the power is turned off. When the power is turned on, it is temporarily saved in the register (step S1009). On the other hand, if the time measured by the timer is not the predetermined time in step S1006a, the process proceeds to step S1009a. In this step S1009a, the game mode history flag area information (game mode information) is saved in a register. In step S1010, the entire area of the RAM 56d is cleared (initialized), and the timer is set to a predetermined count value (step S1010a). Here, the timer is set in order to measure whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed since the initialization has been performed.

  In the first embodiment, the state command is created based on the game state information saved in the register in step S1011. However, in the second embodiment, after the storage area is further initialized by the RAM clear operation, the save command is saved. The stored game mode information is recorded again as a history (game mode history flag) in the work area (game mode flag area) of the RAM.

  In this way, for example, when a hall employee tries to initialize the game mode information in the RAM 56d illegally, when the game mode flag in the RAM 56d indicates a high probability state (probability change state) (original game mode), for example. Even if the RAM is cleared, it is possible to create a state command using the game state information saved in the register.

  However, if the RAM clear operation is performed immediately at this time, the game state flag is initialized, so the game state flag in the RAM 56d is in a low probability state (normal state). At first glance, a state command is created. It seems not to be.

  Further, when the status command is transmitted to the sub-integrated board 68 and an attempt is made to teach that the state is a high probability state, the sub-integrated board 68 does not have a backup function, so the presence of the status command is taught as a memory. I can't. In other words, the player may not be able to recognize that the high probability state has been initialized and has become the normal state.

However, in the pachinko machine as the second embodiment, after the storage area is initialized by the RAM clear operation, the game mode information saved in the register is stored as a history in the work area (game mode history flag area) of the RAM 56d. It is. In this way, the original game mode information remains in the work area (game mode history flag area) of the RAM 56d. Therefore, in the pachinko machine according to the second embodiment, the remaining original state after the RAM is cleared. Based on the game mode information, it is possible to reliably create a state command for teaching that the state is in a probable change state (step S1011). be able to.

  Further, the second embodiment can be applied not only when the RAM is repeatedly cleared twice as described above, but also when the power is turned on without clearing the previous RAM and clearing the current RAM. In this case, in the modification of the second embodiment, step S1006a is provided between step S1005 and step S1006 instead of step S1006a being provided between step S1006 and step S1009 as shown in FIG. It has been. Here, unlike the second embodiment, the modification of the second embodiment is different in that the process proceeds to step S1006 when the time measured by the timer in step S1006a = 0.

  Also in the modified example of the second embodiment as described above, if the power-on operation is performed without performing the RAM clear operation immediately after the power is turned off after the RAM clear operation, the game state flag is initialized. Therefore, the game state flag of the RAM 56d is in a low probability state (normal state), and it seems that no state command is created at first glance. That is, the player may not know that the high-probability state has been cleared (initialized) and brought to the normal state.

  However, in the modified example of the second embodiment, after the storage area is initialized by the RAM clear operation, the game mode information saved in the register is stored again in the work area of the RAM 56d as a history. This ensures that the original game mode information remains in the work area of the RAM 56d. Therefore, in the pachinko machine as a modification of the second embodiment, it remains if the power is turned on again after the RAM is cleared. Based on this game mode information, a state command can be created reliably, and a teaching to the effect that it is in a probable variation state can be taught to the outside.

(17. Reference to other embodiments)
In each of the above embodiments, application to a pachinko machine is illustrated as an example of a gaming machine. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and may be applied to a spinning-type gaming machine such as a slot machine. Nor.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Pachinko machine 4 Game board 42 Center object 44 Entrance device 46 Attacker device 46a Opening / closing member 52 LED
56 Main control board (profit discriminating means, first to third profit giving means, information teaching means)
56d RAM (storage means)

Claims (1)

A lottery is performed to determine whether or not to give a player a profit with a predetermined probability, and in the case of winning, a profit discriminating means for discriminating what kind of profit should be given to the player is provided. In a gaming machine capable of giving a predetermined profit to a player based on the result,
Upon execution of the lottery, the game can be changed between the first game mode in which the predetermined probability is set relatively low and the second game mode in which the predetermined probability is set higher than the low probability game mode. Winning probability changing means to
Storage means for storing game state information related to whether or not the game state has been changed to the second game state by the winning probability changing unit when power supply is stopped;
An initialization operation means for generating an initialization signal triggered by a power supply start operation, and for initializing the game state information stored in the storage means by the generation of the initialization signal;
A gaming machine comprising: information teaching means for teaching information regarding whether or not the gaming mode is the second gaming mode to the outside when the initialization signal is generated.