JP2014073175A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a technique to which a value is further added in addition to conventional game features.SOLUTION: A rush into an opportunity zone of a "high probability state" and also a "time shortening state" is generated in the winning of a probability variable pattern from a normal state. In this case, when a ball distributor unit 280 is arranged inside a variable start winning device 28, fall processing from a "high probability state" by a structure is adopted. A game ball that has entered first during the opening of the variable start winning device 28 is distributed by a rotation body 282. When a game ball enters a pocket 282b, the game ball passes a probability state determination area switch 83. When a game ball passes the probability state determination area switch 83 during a loss variation or a small winning variation, fall processing is performed, and an addition by limiter reset can be generated.

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine in which an upper limit is set for the number of times that a specific winning type can be successively applied among a plurality of winning types.

  Conventionally, during normal times, the operation lottery corresponding to the normal symbol is mainly performed, and when the special symbol fluctuates due to the winning of the operation lottery, it is mainly determined whether or not to enter the `` high probability state '' chance zone In the chance zone, the number of limiters is set to enable continuous winning with a probable variation, but when reaching the limiter, the prior art of gaming machines that forcibly select the normal symbol and end the chance zone is known. (For example, refer to Patent Document 1).

  In the above-mentioned prior art, when a win with a normal symbol occurs in the chance zone, the game will internally transition from the “high probability state” to the “low probability state”, but without apparently ending the chance zone By continuing the above, when the limiter count is reset at the next chance of winning the probability variation symbol, it is possible to realize the game as if the limiter count set first was added. This eliminates the monotony such as “one set until the limiter number set first is consumed” and increases the diversity of the game.

JP 2011-147732 A

The above-described prior art (Patent Document 1) provides a novel gameability that “addition is generated according to the type of winning symbol selected at the time of winning”, and its value is still high.
In addition, the present invention seeks to provide a technology that adds further value in addition to the novel gameplay provided by the prior art.

The present invention employs the following means in order to solve the above problems.
Solution 1: The gaming machine according to the present invention, when a predetermined lottery opportunity occurs during a game, an internal lottery execution means for executing a predetermined internal lottery (for example, whether or not an operation trigger for a variable winning device is generated). And, when the internal lottery execution means by the internal lottery execution means, a winning type determination means for determining at least whether the winning type is a normal winning type or a specific winning type, and the internal lottery execution means An opening operation means for performing an opening operation that changes from a non-operating state in which a winning is difficult to occur to an operating state that facilitates the generation of a winning, based on a predetermined opening operation condition, when the winning is obtained by lottery, and the opening When a winning occurs with the opening operation by the operating means, a winning privilege generating means for generating a winning privilege, and when the winning is obtained by the internal lottery, the opening operation means by the opening operating means. An internal state related to the occurrence of the lottery trigger after the end of the operation is changed from the non-time shortened state in which the lottery trigger can be generated at a normal frequency to the lottery trigger at a higher frequency than the non-time shortened state. A time shortening state transition means for shifting to a time shortening state in which the occurrence of the occurrence is possible, and a winning is obtained by the internal lottery, and if the specified winning type is met, the winning type determining means is discontinuous (first time) Once determined, every time a winning is obtained in the internal lottery, the number of consecutive times that the winning type determining means can continuously determine as corresponding to the specific winning type is a predetermined upper limit number of times. If the winning number is determined by the internal lottery and the winning type is determined continuously by the winning type determining means when the winning type is determined to be the specific winning type, The continuous number updating means for updating the value of the continuous number every time determined, and when the value of the continuous number updated by the continuous number updating means reaches a specified number, a winning is obtained in the internal lottery The winning type determining means for restricting the winning type determined by the winning type determining means to the normal winning type, and the value of the continuous number updated by the continuous number updating means has reached the specified number As a result of the winning type being restricted by the winning type restricting means, if it is determined by the winning type determining means that it corresponds to the normal winning type at the time of winning the internal lottery, after the opening operation by the opening operation means is completed Non-time shortening state return means for returning to the non-time shortening state without shifting the internal state to the time shortening state, and the continuous number of times by the continuous number setting means In the internal lottery performed after setting of a value, a decision availability operation executing means for executing a decision availability operation for determining whether or not to generate a specific event with a predetermined probability, and the continuous count by the continuous count setting means In the internal lottery performed after setting the value, if the specific event occurs in the decision availability operation by the decision availability operation execution unit, the continuous count value is reset to the continuous count setting unit And a continuous number resetting opportunity generating means for generating an opportunity to do so.

According to the gaming machine of the present invention, for example, a game can be executed in the following flow.
(1) An internal lottery (for example, a lottery corresponding to a special symbol) is performed when a lottery opportunity (for example, a winning at a start winning opening accompanying an operation of a variable start winning device) occurs during a game.
(2) When winning in the internal lottery of (1) above, a winning type (for example, winning symbol) is further determined.
(3) When winning in the internal lottery of (1) above, an opening operation (for example, an opening operation of a variable winning device) that enables winning can be performed (for example, after the special symbol fluctuation is stopped).

(4) When a prize for the above (3) occurs, a prize bonus is generated. Here, for example, an operation of giving a prize bonus such as prize ball payout is performed.
(5) When winning in the above (1) (regardless of whether the winning type is determined to be either a normal winning type or a specific winning type in (2) above), the gaming state after the opening operation of (3) above Is shifted from the “non-time reduction state” to the “time reduction state”.

(6) In addition, when it is determined that the winning type is the specific winning type in (2) above, the value of “continuous number of times (limiter number)” is initially set. The The initial value of “continuous number of times” may be “a value indicating how many times the remaining winnings can be continuously won (a value that is subtracted by updating)”, or “how many times it can be continuously won” It is also possible to use a value indicating that (a value added by updating). Hereinafter, for convenience, the “continuous number of times” is described as “remaining number of times (value to be subtracted)”, but is not limited thereto.
(7) When the value of “continuous number” is set in (6) above, and the winning type is subsequently determined to be the specific winning type in (2), the value of the continuous number of times is determined every time. Will be updated.

[Summary]
To summarize the flow of the game so far, first, when shifting to the “time reduction state” in (5) above, lottery triggers occur frequently in (1) and internal lottery is executed frequently. Therefore, the frequency at which the winning is obtained is also higher than in the “non-time shortened state”. Then, the frequency at which the opening operation is performed in (3) above also increases. Thereby, the frequency at which the prize bonus is given in the above (4) is also higher than the “non-time shortened state”. If the “time reduction state” is within the range of the number of consecutive times, it is possible to continuously determine that the winning type is the specific winning type in (2) above. Therefore, when shifting to the “time reduction state”, the flow of (1) to (5) and (7) is repeated with high frequency.

  In addition, when shifting to the “time reduction state” and repeating the above (1) to (5) and (7), the value of the continuous number (for example, the remaining number) gradually decreases due to the update in the meantime. Since the prize bonus is given in the above (4) during this repetition, the profit given to the player increases.

[Game flow (continued)]
(8) The above (1) to (5) and (7) are repeated, and when the value of the continuous number eventually reaches a specified value (for example, the remaining number is 0, but may be other than this), the above ( In 2), the winning type cannot be determined to be the specific winning type, and the normal winning type is forcibly determined as the winning type.

(9) When the normal winning type is forcibly determined in (8) above, the gaming state is returned from the “time reduction state” to the “non-time reduction state” after the release operation in (3) above. Then, since the frequency of occurrence of the lottery trigger in (1) is lower than that in the “time reduction state”, the internal lottery in (1) is not executed at a high frequency this time. As a result, the hurdle for executing the internal lottery in the above (1) is high, and the flow of the above (1) to (5), (7) that has occurred in the “time reduction state” until then is increased. It ends for the time being.

(10) On the other hand, in the internal lottery of the above (1) after the value of the continuous number is set in the above (6), the “determination operation” is executed in the present invention. In this “determination / non-decision operation”, an operation for determining whether or not to generate a “specific event” with a predetermined probability (for example, an operation for determining whether or not a game medium passes through the probability state determination area by movement of a tangible object) ) Is done.
(11) Then, when a “specific event” is generated in the “determinability determination operation” in (10) above, an opportunity for resetting (initializing again) the value of the continuous count in (6) is generated. be able to. In this case, the value of the continuous number (for example, the remaining number) that has been updated (decreased) in the above flow (1) to (5) and (7) is reset and becomes irrelevant. The game flow can be restarted with the default setting.

  As described above, according to the gaming machine of the present invention, after winning in the internal lottery of the above (1), it shifts to the “time reduction state” in the above (5), and “the value of the continuous number” in the above (6). After the initial setting, the game proceeds while repeating the flow (1) to (5) and (7).

  However, when reaching (8) from (7) above and returning to the “non-time-reduced state” via (9) above, the flow is once ended and there is a hurdle for proceeding to the internal lottery of (1) above. Becomes higher. In this case, the main content of the game is to generate the lottery trigger of (1) above.

  On the other hand, in the present invention, the “determination / non-decision operation” of the above (10) is performed while the flow of the above (1) to (5) and (7) is repeated. Here, if the occurrence of “specific event” is successful (occurs with a predetermined probability), the resetting value of “number of consecutive times” occurs according to (11) above, so that the above (8) and (9) are reached accordingly. Is postponed. Thereby, the number of times (continuous number of times) that the flow of (1) to (5) and (7) can be continued is increased, and the player's profit due to the provision of a prize bonus can be increased.

  In particular, in the present invention, the “determinability operation” is used in the above (10) with respect to the occurrence of the resetting opportunity in the above (11). As a result, the gameability of “addition by resetting the number of consecutive times” is generated through the clear event of “occurrence of a specific event in the decision availability operation”, and where is the mountain of the game (where to put power) Can be easily recognized by the player. In addition, when a “specific event” occurs, it is “added”, but if there is no “specific event”, it is easy for the player to understand that there is no additional, and it is possible to realize dynamic game playability. .

  Solving means 2: In the solving means 1, the deciding / deciding operation determining means executes the deciding / deciding operation in such a manner that the process of deciding whether or not to generate the specific event with the predetermined probability can be visually recognized. To do.

  According to this solution, every time the “determinability operation” is executed in (10), the player's vision is appealed, and it is clear that “whether a specific event occurs = whether it will be added”. Can provide interesting interests.

  In this respect, in the case of an aspect in which a resetting opportunity for the number of consecutive times is generated through internal processing (program processing), it is difficult for the player to intuitively feel that the resetting opportunity has occurred. Yes, it is difficult to clarify "where to put power", but if it is an aspect that appeals to the sight like this solution, it is said to the player that "this is where to put power" Can be clearly recognized.

  Solving means 3: In the solving means 1 and 2, the continuous number of times resetting opportunity generating means generates the next time by the internal lottery executing means after the specific event is generated in the determination enable / disable operation by the determination enable / disable operation executing means. Even if it is determined by the winning type determination means that it corresponds to the specific winning type when winning is obtained in the subsequent internal lottery, the determination is not continuous but before the occurrence of the specific event. By treating as a thing, the opportunity for resetting the value of the said continuous frequency with respect to the said continuous frequency setting means is generated.

  According to this solution, the occurrence of the trigger for resetting the value of the continuous number in (11) becomes clearer. That is, even if it has been continuously determined that it falls under the specific winning type at the time of winning the internal lottery, the solution means that the continuity is determined on the condition that the “specific event” has occurred in (10) above. It will be terminated once. As a result, even if it was determined that it falls under the specified winning type at the time of the last internal lottery, if it falls under the specified winning type after the occurrence of the “specific event”, it will be treated as the first (non-consecutive). In (6), the value of the number of consecutive times is newly initialized.

  Solving means 4: In the solving means 3, the gaming machine according to the present invention, when the winning is obtained by the internal lottery and when the winning type determining means determines that it corresponds to the specific winning type, the opening operation means The internal state related to the execution of the internal lottery after the opening operation is completed, with a low probability from the low probability state where the winning in the internal lottery is possible with a normal low probability, with a higher probability than the low probability state. It further comprises a high probability state transition means for transitioning to a high probability state in which winning in an internal lottery is possible, and the continuous number of times setting means is arranged so that the internal probability is shifted to the high probability state by the high probability state transition means. If winning is obtained by lottery and the winning type determining means determines that the winning type is the specific winning type, the determination is made after the high probability state shifting means shifts to the high probability state. Each time the winning is obtained in the internal lottery, the winning type determining means sets the value of the continuous number that can be continuously determined as corresponding to the specific winning type based on a predetermined upper limit number of times The continuous number of times update means wins in the internal lottery performed after the transition to the high probability state by the high probability state transition means, and if the specified winning type falls, the winning type determination means When continuously determined, the value of the number of consecutive times is updated every time it is determined continuously, and the winning type restricting means after the transition to the high probability state by the high probability state transition means, When the value of the continuous number updated by the continuous number updating means reaches a specified number, the winning type determined by the winning type determining means when the winning is obtained by the internal lottery is determined. In the internal lottery performed after the transition to the high-probability state by the high-probability state transition unit, the continuous number of times resetting opportunity generation unit is controlled by the determination availability operation execution unit When the specific event is generated in the determination availability operation, the internal lottery execution unit performs the next and subsequent times by ending the high probability state transferred by the high probability state transition unit and returning to the low probability state. Even if it is determined by the winning type determination means that the specified winning type corresponds to the case where the internal lottery is won, the determination is not continuous but before the occurrence of the specific event. As a trigger for resetting the value of the continuous number to the continuous number setting means.

According to this solution, the following playability is added.
In other words, if it is determined in the above (2) that it corresponds to the specific winning type, the gaming state is shifted from the “low probability state” to the “high probability state” after the releasing operation in the above (3).
In (6) above, the value of the number of consecutive times is initially set when it is determined that it corresponds to the specific winning type at the time of winning the internal lottery performed in the “low probability state”.
If it is determined that it corresponds to the specific winning type at the time of winning the internal lottery performed in the “high probability state”, it is determined continuously, so the value of the continuous number is not set in (6) above. The value of the continuous number is updated in (7) above.
In this way, when the internal lottery in the “high probability state” is won, it is determined that the specific winning type is continuously applied, and when the “continuous value (for example, remaining number)” reaches the specified value, (8 ) Will regulate the type of winning.
However, in the internal lottery performed in the “high probability state”, when the “specific event” occurs in the above (10), the internal state of the “high probability state” is terminated and the state shifts to the “low probability state” ( Therefore, even if it is determined that it corresponds to the specific winning type at the time of winning the internal lottery after the next time, it will not be determined continuously. It can be initialized (reset).

  Solving means 5: In the solving means 1 to 4, when the determination possibility operation executing means obtains a result other than winning in the internal lottery performed after setting the continuous number value by the continuous number setting means, The determination enabling / disabling operation for determining whether or not to generate a specific event is executed, and the continuous number reset trigger generation unit is configured to perform the internal lottery performed after setting the continuous number value by the continuous number setting unit. When a result other than winning is obtained, and the specific event occurs in the decision availability operation by the decision availability operation execution means, the continuous count value is reset to the continuous count setting means. Triggers for

According to this solution, the following playability becomes clear.
That is, the “determination / non-decision operation” is executed in (10) above when a result other than winning is obtained in the internal lottery in (1). As a result, it is possible to generate “addition of the value of the continuous number” by a clear trigger “occurrence of a specific event in the determination possible / impossible operation” without triggering the winning in the internal lottery.

  Solving means 6: In the solving means 1 to 5, the gaming machine according to the present invention includes a specific event effect executing means for executing a specific event effect in a mode representing execution of the determination enable / disable operation by the determination enable / disable operation executing means, and the determination. When the specific event is generated in the determination enable / disable operation executed by the enable / disable operation executing unit, an aspect indicating that an opportunity for resetting the continuous count value has occurred in the continuous count setting unit Resetting trigger generation effect execution means for executing the resetting trigger generation effect.

According to this solution, the following playability is further realized.
In other words, by executing the specific event effect during the execution of the “determinability determination operation” of (10) above, the player is instructed in an easy-to-understand manner in terms of the effect that “there is now power”. be able to.

  In addition, when the “specific event” is actually generated in the above (10) while executing such a specific event effect, the resetting is performed in the above (11) by executing the “reset opportunity generation effect”. It is possible to convey the occurrence of the opportunity to the player on the stage of production and to clearly recognize the benefit of “occurrence of extra”.

  Solving means 7: In the solving means 6, the continuous count resetting trigger generating means is the continuous count setting means regardless of whether or not the specific event has occurred in the determination enable / disable operation by the determination enable / disable operation executing means. When winning by the internal lottery performed after setting the value of the continuous number of times, and when the winning type determining means determines that it falls under the normal winning type without being restricted by the winning type restricting means, By maintaining and setting the internal state after completion of the opening operation by the opening operation means in the time shortening state, a winning is obtained in the internal lottery performed after this maintaining, and it corresponds to the specific winning type Then, when it is determined by the winning type determining means, it further generates an opportunity to reset the value of the continuous number for the continuous number setting means. Thus, whether or not the determination possibility operation executing means causes the specific event to occur even when a winning result is obtained in the internal lottery performed after setting the continuous number value by the continuous number setting means. The specific event presentation execution means is configured to determine whether or not the result of winning in the internal lottery is performed after setting the continuous number value by the continuous number setting means. Even if it is obtained, the specific event effect of the aspect representing the execution of the decidability operation by the decidability operation execution unit is executed, and the reset opportunity generation effect execution unit is the decidability When the specific event is generated in the decidability operation executed by the operation execution unit, an opportunity for resetting the continuous count value to the continuous count setting unit occurs. Performing the reconfiguration trigger generating effect by mode indicating that.

According to this solution, the following playability is further added.
In other words, the occurrence of the resetting opportunity in (11) is basically performed on the condition that a “specific event” has occurred in the “determinable / non-decision operation” in (10). The “determination / non-decision operation” is basically performed when an internal lottery does not win.

  However, if it is determined in (2) above that the normal winning type is met while repeating the flow (1) to (5), (7), the continuity of the specific winning type is temporarily interrupted there. become. In this case, by maintaining the “time reduction state” as the internal state after completion of the opening operation in (3) above, in the above (11), in the case of winning the internal lottery from the next time, the specific winning type As a result, it is possible to generate an opportunity for resetting the value of the continuous number in (6).

In this way, the present solution can generate a trigger for resetting the value of the continuous count through an internal process (determination of the winning type) without triggering “occurrence of a specific event”.
In addition, in the present solution, the “determination / non-decision operation” is performed in the above (10) even when the internal lottery is won, and the “specific event presentation” is also executed. When the “specific event” is generated in the “determination / non-decision operation” performed when the internal lottery is won, the “resetting opportunity generation effect” is executed. As a result, even if an extra is actually generated due to internal processing, the player is given an impression that it was added when triggered by the occurrence of a specific event. Can provide consistent gameplay from start to finish.

  Solving means 8: In the solving means 7, the resetting opportunity generation effect executing means is the case where the specific event is not generated in the determination enable / disable operation executed by the determination enable / disable operation executing means. The resetting opportunity generation effect is further executed in a manner indicating that an opportunity for resetting the value of the continuous number has occurred in the continuous number setting means.

  According to the present solution, when it is determined that an additional (an opportunity for resetting) will occur by internal processing, even if the “specific event” does not occur in (10) above, Execute the effect of resetting the value of the continuous number of times. As a result, it is possible to give the player the impression that it has been added as a remedy, and to give a sense of relief to the reality that “the specific event has not occurred” and a fresh surprise.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to realize a game with added various values.

It is a front view of a pachinko machine. It is a rear view of a pachinko machine. It is a front view which shows a game board unit independently. It is a figure which shows the structure and operation | movement of a ball distribution apparatus unit. It is a front view which expands and shows a part of game board unit. It is a block diagram which shows the various electronic devices with which the pachinko machine was equipped. It is a flowchart (1/2) which shows the example of a procedure of a reset start process. It is a flowchart (2/2) which shows the example of a procedure of a reset start process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of an interruption management process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a security management process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a switch input event process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a normal symbol memory update process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of the process at the time of probability state determination area | region passage. It is a flowchart which shows the structural example of a normal symbol game process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a normal symbol change pre-process. It is a flowchart which shows the structural example of a variable start prize-winning apparatus management process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a spherical route switching process. It is a figure which shows the structural example of a normal symbol operation condition setting table. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a special symbol memory | storage process. It is a flowchart which shows the structural example of a special symbol game process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of the special symbol change pre-processing. It is a figure which shows the structure row | line | column of the big hit stop symbol selection table. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of the special symbol stop display process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a fall process. It is a flowchart which shows the structural example of a display output management process. It is a flowchart which shows the structural example of a variable winning apparatus management process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of an end process. It is a game flow figure which shows the flow of the game by a pachinko machine as an example. FIG. 49 is a game flow diagram showing a game flow when the “limiter count” reaches the remaining zero. It is a conceptual diagram which classify | categorizes and shows the pattern of a game flow. It is a conceptual diagram which classify | categorizes and shows the pattern of a game flow. It is a conceptual diagram which classify | categorizes and shows the pattern of a game flow. It is a continuation figure which shows the example of an effect performed at the time of normal symbol non-winning. It is a continuation figure showing an example of an effect performed at the time of hitting a normal symbol. It is a figure which shows the example of an effect performed at the time of variable start prize-winning apparatus action | operation. It is a continuation figure (1/2) which shows the example of the presentation performed at the time of special symbol change (within change time). It is a continuation figure (2/2) which shows the example of the presentation performed at the time of special symbol change (within change time). It is a continuation figure which shows the example of the production performed at the time of special symbol change when not entering the chance zone. It is a figure which shows the example of an effect performed when a game flow progresses during a probability change from variable winning apparatus operation. It is a continuation figure which shows the example of the effect performed during an "additional accessory game". It is a continuation figure which shows the example of operation (success pattern) of the actual extra character game by a ball sorter unit. It is a figure which shows the example of an effect performed at the time of "a superposition bonus game is successful". It is a continuation figure which shows the example of operation (failure pattern) of the actual extra character game by a ball sorter unit. It is a figure which shows the example of an effect performed at the time of "a superposition bonus game failure". It is a continuation figure which shows the example of an effect of an extra report by a relief pattern. It is a figure which shows the example of the production | generation which produces a limiter addition separately from the "additional accessory game". It is a figure which shows the example of an effect performed after reaching a limiter. It is the figure which showed the example of the background image which changes with progress of a game flow. It is a figure which shows the example of the effect performed when it does not re-enter into a chance zone after reaching a limiter (when returning during a normal game). It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of effect control processing. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of effect design management processing. It is a flowchart which shows the structural example of the aftereffect management process of a normal symbol. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of the effect process after special symbol stop display. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of the production pattern selection process during a chance.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  The pachinko machine 1 includes the game board unit 8 as a game unit. The game board unit 8 is supported by the inner frame assembly 7 behind (inside) the integrated door unit 4. The game board unit 8 can be attached to and detached from the inner frame assembly 7 with the integrated door unit 4 opened to the front side, for example. The integrated door unit 4 is formed with a vertically oval window 4a at the center thereof, and a glass unit (no reference numeral) is attached in the window 4a. The glass unit is a combination of, for example, two transparent plates (glass plates) cut in accordance with the shape of the window 4a. The glass unit is attached to the back side of the integrated door unit 4 via a fixture (not shown). A game area 8a (board surface) is formed on the front surface of the game board unit 8, and this game area 8a is visible to the player from the front side through the window 4a. When the integrated door unit 4 is closed, a space in which a game ball can flow down is formed between the inner surface of the glass unit and the board surface.

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

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

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

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

[Configuration of the front of the frame]
The integrated door unit 4 is provided with a left top lens unit 47 and an upper right illumination unit 49 as components for production. Among these, the left top lens unit 47 incorporates a glass frame top lamp 46 and a left glass frame decoration lamp 48, and the upper right electrical decoration unit 49 incorporates a right glass frame decoration lamp 50. In addition, left and right glass frame decoration lamps 52 are installed in the integrated door unit 4 so as to be connected to the lower part of the left top lens unit 47 and the upper right illumination unit 49, respectively. It extends from the left and right edges of the integrated door unit 4 to the front surface of the tray unit 6. In the integrated door unit 4, the glass frame top lamp 46 and the left and right glass frame decoration lamps 48, 50, 52, and the like are arranged so as to surround the glass unit (no reference symbol).

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

  In the center of the tray unit 6, an effect switching button 45 is installed at a position in front of the upper plate 6b. The effect switching button 45 has, for example, a combination of a push-type circular button and a rotary jog ring (jog dial) around it. The player switches the contents of the effect (for example, the background screen displayed on the liquid crystal display 42) by pushing or rotating the effect switching button 45, or for example, while the symbol (ordinary symbol or special symbol) is changing, Various effects (notice effect, expectation suggestion effect, etc.) can be generated in accordance with various situations such as a fixed display per normal symbol and a game in a high probability state.

[Configuration on the back side]
As shown in FIG. 2, on the back side of the pachinko machine 1, there are a power supply control unit 162, a main control board unit 170, a dispensing device unit 172, a flow path unit 173, a launch control board set 174, and a dispensing control board unit 176. A back cover unit 178 and the like are installed. In addition, on the back side of the pachinko machine 1, various electronic devices (including a control computer not shown) constituting the power supply system and control system of the pachinko machine 1, an external terminal board 160, a power cord (power plug) 164, A ground wire (ground terminal) 166, connection wiring (not shown), and the like are installed. The electronic devices will be further described later based on another block diagram (FIG. 6).

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

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

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

[Configuration of the board]
FIG. 3 is a front view showing the game board unit 8 alone. In the game area 8a, a relatively large effect unit 40 is arranged at the center position, and the game area 8a is largely divided into a left part, a right part and a lower part with the effect unit 40 as the center. Further, in the game area 8a, the middle start gate 20, the right start gate 21, the normal winning ports 22, 24, 25, the variable start winning device 28, the variable winning device 30 and the like are distributed around the effect unit 40. ing. Among these, the middle start gate 20 is located in the center of the lower part of the game area 8a, and the right start gate 21 is located near the upper part in the right part of the game area 8a. In addition, the three normal winning holes 22 are positioned on the lower side of the left side of the game area 8a, and the other one normal winning hole 24 is positioned below the middle start gate 20. The remaining ordinary winning opening 25 is located on the right side of the game area 8a, and is located below the right start gate 21, and the variable winning device 30 is arranged directly below the right starting gate 21. The variable start winning device 28 is located on the lower side of the right side of the game area 8a and is arranged side by side to the right of the middle start gate 20.

  The game ball thrown into the game area 8a passes through the middle start gate 20 and the right start gate 21 in the process of flowing down, enters the normal winning holes 22, 24, 25 (wins), or The player enters (wins) a ball in the variable start winning device 28 during operation or the variable winning device 30 during opening operation. Note that the game balls flowing down the left area of the game area 8a may pass through the middle start gate 20 or may enter the normal winning holes 22 and 24 (win). The game balls flowing down the right area of the game area 8a mainly pass through the right start gate 21, enter the normal winning opening 25 (win), or operate the variable start winning device 28 and the opening operation. There is a possibility of winning (winning) a ball in the variable winning device 30 at the time. The game balls that have passed through the middle start gate 20 and the right start gate 21 continue to flow down in the game area 8a, but enter the normal winning holes 22, 24, 25, the variable start winning device 28, and the variable winning device 30 (winning) The collected game balls are collected to the back side of the game board unit 8 through through holes formed in the game board (plywood material, transparent board, etc. constituting the game board unit 8).

  In the present embodiment, the variable start winning device 28 operates when a predetermined operating condition is satisfied (when a normal symbol is stopped and displayed for a predetermined stop display time in a winning manner), and accordingly. A ball can be entered (winning) into the start winning opening 28a (ordinary electric accessory). The variable start winning device 28 has, for example, one open / close member 28b, and this open / close member 28b reciprocates in the front-rear direction with respect to the board surface by the action of a link mechanism using a solenoid (not shown), for example. As shown in the drawing, the opening / closing member 28b is in the closed position (closed state) along the board surface, and at this time, it is impossible to enter the start winning opening 28a (the starting winning opening 28a is closed). When the variable start winning device 28 is actuated, the opening / closing member 28b is displaced so as to fall forward with its lower end edge as a hinge, thereby opening the start winning port 28a (open state). During this time, the variable start winning device 28 is in a state in which the inflow of game balls is not impossible, that is, in an open state in which it is possible to enter a ball, and can generate an event (lottery opportunity) of winning a start winning opening 28a (variable winning) means). At this time, the opening / closing member 28b also functions as a member for guiding the inflow of the game ball into the start winning opening 28a. In addition, the arrangement of the obstacle nails installed in the game board unit 8 is basically an aspect that does not extremely impede the flow of the game ball toward the variable start winning device 28 (start winning port 28a at the time of operation). However, the game ball does not necessarily flow into the variable start winning device 28 at the time of operation, but the flow is generated randomly.

  The variable winning device 30 operates when the specified condition is satisfied (when the special symbol is stopped and displayed for the specified stop display time in a mode other than non-winning) and enters the big winning opening 30b. Enables a ball (winning) (special electric accessory). The variable winning device 30 has, for example, a pair of left and right opening / closing members 30a, and these opening / closing members 30a also reciprocate in the left-right direction along the board surface by the action of a link mechanism using a solenoid (not shown), for example. That is, as shown by the solid line in FIG. 3, the left and right opening / closing members 30a are in the closed position with their tips facing upwards, and at this time, it is impossible to enter (win) the big winning opening 30b (game). (There is no gap through which the sphere can flow). On the other hand, when the variable winning device 30 is activated, the left and right opening / closing members 30a are displaced (expanded) from the closed position toward the open position, and the opening width is enlarged to the left and right to open the large winning opening 30b. During this time, the variable winning device 30 is in a state in which game balls can flow in, and can generate a winning (winning) to the big winning opening 30b (variable winning means). Here, similarly, the arrangement of the obstacle nails installed in the game board unit 8 is basically an aspect that does not extremely impede the flow of the game ball toward the variable winning device 30 (the large winning opening 30b at the time of opening). However, the game ball does not necessarily flow into the variable winning device 30 (large winning port 30b) at the time of the opening operation, and the inflow is generated randomly.

  In addition, an out port 32 is formed in the game area 8 a, and game balls that have not won a prize are finally collected to the back side of the game board unit 8 through the out port 32. In addition, the game areas 8a including the game balls that have entered the normal winning holes 22, 24, 25, the variable start winning device 28 (start winning port 28a), and the variable winning device 30 (large winning port 30b) are driven into the game area 8a. All the game balls are collected to the back side of the game board unit 8. The collected game balls are discharged out of the frame from the back side of the pachinko machine 1 through an out passage assembly (not shown), and further join a supply path of an island facility (not shown).

[Ball sorter unit]
The variable start winning device 28 includes a ball sorter unit 280. The ball distribution device unit 280 performs the operation of distributing the game balls that have entered the variable start winning device 28. Due to the structure, the game balls that have not entered the variable start winning device 28 are transferred to the ball distribution device unit 280. Never reach.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the configuration of the ball sorter unit 280 and its operation.
4A: The ball sorter unit 280 has a front surface covered with a transparent plate 296, and the inside can be visually confirmed through the transparent plate 296. The transparent plate 296 may be a part of the game board constituting the game board unit 8. A flow-down passage 286 is formed in the ball sorter unit 280, and the upper end of the flow-down passage 286 opens in the start winning opening 28a. In addition, a start winning port switch 82 is installed in the middle of the flow-down passage 286, and all game balls that have entered the variable start winning device 28 (start-up winning port 28a) flow into the flow-down passage 286 from the upper end opening. , The start winning a prize opening switch 82 is passed.

[Distribution of the first ball]
In the ball sorter unit 280, the flow-down passage 286 is branched in two directions, one of which (here left) is the guide passage 288 and the other (here right) is the discharge passage 290. A path switching member 284 is disposed between the guide path 288 and the discharge path 290, and the path switching member 284 swings at a certain angle in the left-right direction with the lower end portion as a center, thereby enabling a start prize opening switch. The flow direction of the game ball that has passed through 82 is switched to either the guide passage 288 or the discharge passage 290. That is, as shown in FIG. 4A, the path switching member 284 switches the flow direction of the game ball to the guide path 288 while swinging rightward. In this case, after the opening operation of the variable start winning device 28, the game ball (first ball) that first passes through the start winning port switch 82 is distributed to the left guide passage 288.

  The guide passage 288 is inclined downward to the left, and a disk-shaped rotating body 282 is installed at the tip. The rotating body 282 is arranged vertically (rotating axis is horizontal) along the board surface, and while the pachinko machine 1 is powered on, the rotating body motor (not shown) has a constant pattern (in this example, a constant speed counterclockwise). ). In the rotating body 282, for example, two recovery holes 282a and pockets 282b are formed at equal intervals (angles) in the circumferential direction, and the game ball rolling on the guide passage 288 is in accordance with the timing at that time. Flow into any of the recovery holes 282a or pockets 282b.

  That is, with the rotation of the rotating body 282, the recovery hole 282a and the pocket 282b pass through the positions facing the end of the guide passage 288 in order. Therefore, when the timing at which the collection hole 282a passes through the position facing the end of the guide passage 288 and the timing at which the game ball is present at that position overlap ((A) in FIG. 4), the game ball is collected at the collection hole 282a. If the timing at which the pocket 282b passes through the position overlaps with the timing at which the game ball exists, the game ball flows into the pocket 282b.

  In any case, the game ball that has flowed into the recovery hole 282a is discharged from the ball sorter unit 280 through a discharge passage (not shown). That is, the recovery hole 282a communicates with a discharge passage (not shown) in the depth direction of the rotating body 282, and reaches the position where the recovery hole 282a overlaps with the inlet of the discharge passage (for example, the 12 o'clock position) as the rotating body 282 rotates. Then, the game ball flows into the discharge passage from the collection hole 282a.

  On the other hand, the game ball that has flowed into the pocket 282b is conveyed as the rotating body 282 rotates. The pocket 282b is not opened in the back direction, so that even if the pocket 282b reaches a position where it overlaps the entrance of the discharge passage, the game ball in the pocket 282b does not flow into the discharge passage, and the rotation of the rotating body 282 is continued. It is conveyed in the direction.

  In the ball sorter unit 280, a guide path 293 is formed on the opposite side (here, the left side) of the guide passage 288 across the rotating body 282. The guide path 293 has a large opening in the upper right so that the upper end of the guide path 293 faces the peripheral edge of the rotating body 282. As described above, the game ball that has flowed into the pocket 282b and conveyed is guided by the guide path 293. It is discharged at a position opposite to the opening and flows down in the guide path 293.

  A probability state determination area switch 83 is installed in the middle of the guide path 293, and the game ball released to the guide path 293 passes through the probability state determination area switch 83 (occurrence of a specific event). In addition, the terminal portion of the guide path 293 communicates with another discharge path 294, and the game ball that has passed the probability state determination area switch 83 is discharged from the ball sorter unit 280 through the discharge path 294.

[Discharge after the second ball]
In FIG. 4, (B): After the opening operation of the variable start winning device 28, when the first ball passes the start winning port switch 82, the route switching member 284 swings leftward by a ball route switching solenoid (not shown). Therefore, the game balls (second and subsequent balls) that have passed through the start winning opening switch 82 after the second are distributed to the discharge path 290 on the right side. A discharge port 292 is formed at the end of the discharge path 290, and the discharge port 292 communicates with a discharge passage (not shown) on the back side of the transparent plate.

  For this reason, even if a plurality of game balls wins while the variable start winning device 28 is opened, only the first ball is subject to the sorting operation by the rotating body 282, and the second ball and later are left as they are. It will be discharged from 280. Further, the ball sorter unit 280 is provided with LED lighting (not shown). When the first ball sorting operation is performed in the ball sorter unit 280, the LED lighting is turned on and the visibility of the role game is displayed. To improve. Conversely, by turning off the LED illumination, the visibility of the ball sorter unit 280 can be reduced, and the player's consciousness can be diverted. In addition, the game characteristic (addition by an accessory game) using the ball sorter unit 280 will be described later together with the description of the game flow.

  FIG. 5 is an enlarged front view showing a part of the game board unit 8 (lower right position in the window 4a). That is, the game board unit 8 is provided with, for example, a normal symbol display device 33 and a normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a at the lower right position in the window 4a, and a special symbol display device 34 and a game state display device 38. ing. Among these, the normal symbol display device 33, for example, turns on two lamps (LEDs) alternately to display the normal symbols variably, and stops and displays the normal symbols when the lamps are turned on or off. The normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a displays 0 to 4 memory numbers depending on, for example, a combination of turning off, lighting, or blinking of two lamps (LEDs). For example, in a display mode in which both lamps are extinguished, a memory number of 0 is displayed, in a display mode in which one lamp is lit, a memory number of 1 is displayed, and in a display mode in which the same one lamp is blinked. In the display mode in which two stored numbers are displayed, and in addition to blinking one lamp, the other lamp is lit, three stored numbers are displayed, and in the display mode in which the two lamps are flashed together, the stored number is four. For example, the individual is displayed. Here, although two lamps (LEDs) are used here, the normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a may be configured using four lamps (LEDs). In this case, the number of working memories can be displayed by the number of lamps to be lit.

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

  Further, the special symbol display device 34 can display the variation state and the stopped state of the special symbol by, for example, a 7-segment LED (with dots) (symbol display means). Since one special symbol is used in the present embodiment, one special 7-segment LED may be provided as the special symbol display device 34. However, as shown in FIG. By mounting, the same hardware configuration (integrated display substrate 89) can be applied to other models using two special symbols. In the present embodiment, the working memory lamp and the working memory number display device corresponding to the special symbol are not provided. One special symbol may be displayed by two 7-segment LEDs. In addition, the special symbol display device 34 may have a form in which a plurality of dot LEDs are arranged geometrically (for example, in a circular shape).

  The game state display device 38 includes, for example, three LEDs corresponding to a high probability state display lamp 38c, a time-short state display lamp 38d, and a launch position designation display lamp 38e. In FIG. 5, other lamps (LEDs) not particularly denoted by reference numerals are unused (blank). In the present embodiment, the normal symbol display device 33, the normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a, the special symbol display device 34, and the game state display device 38 described above are mounted on the game board unit 8 in a state where they are mounted on one integrated display board 89. It is attached.

[Other configuration of game board unit: see FIG. 3]
The effect unit 40 has an upper edge portion 40a that functions as a guide member that changes the flow direction of the game ball, and includes various decorative parts 40b, 40c, 40k, 40m, and the like inside. The decorative parts 40b, 40c, 40k, and 40m improve the decorativeness of the game board unit 8 by three-dimensional modeling and, for example, emit transmitted light by a built-in light emitter (LED or the like), thereby performing a stunning operation. can do. A liquid crystal display 42 (image display) is installed inside the effect unit 40, and various effect images including an effect symbol corresponding to the normal symbol are displayed on the liquid crystal display 42. In this way, the game board unit 8 impresses the player with the characteristics of the pachinko machine 1 based on the configuration of the board surface (design of a cell plate (not shown)) and the decoration of the effect unit 40.

  A ball guide passage 40d is formed at the left edge of the effect unit 40, and a rolling stage 40e is formed at the lower edge thereof. The ball guide passage 40d is opened obliquely upward to the left in the game area 8a. When a game ball flowing down in the game area 8a randomly flows into the ball guide path 40d, it passes through the inside and rolls. Released onto the stage 40e. The rolling stage 40e is formed, for example, in two upper and lower stages, of which the upper stage is located at the back as viewed from the player and the lower stage is located at the front as viewed from the player. In both the upper and lower stages, the upper surface of the rolling stage 40e has a smooth curved surface. Here, the game ball can roll in the left-right direction. The game ball that rolls on the rolling stage 40e eventually flows down from the lower stage into the lower game area 8a.

  An inflow passage 40g is formed at a substantially central position of the rolling stage 40e, and game balls can randomly flow into the inflow passage 40g from the upper rolling stage 40e. The inflow passage 40g is formed by extending the lower edge portion of the effect unit 40 downward and then bent in an L shape toward the front side, and a ball discharge port 40h is formed at the end thereof. The ball discharge port 40h is opened toward the front surface, and the opening position is located directly above the middle start gate 20. For this reason, the game ball that has flowed into the inflow passage 40g from above the rolling stage 40e is released from the ball discharge port 40h and easily passes through the middle start gate 20 directly below it (however, it does not always pass). .)

  In addition, the effect unit 40 is provided with a drive source (for example, a motor, a solenoid, and the like) (not shown) together with a movable body 40f (for example, a heart-shaped ornament) for effect. The effect movable body 40f can execute an effect accompanied by an operation of a tangible object in addition to an effect using an image by the liquid crystal display 42 and an effect by a light emitter. Due to such an effect using the movable body 40f, an appealing power different from the effect using a two-dimensional image can be exhibited. A production example using the movable body 40f will be described later.

[Control configuration]
Next, a configuration related to control of the pachinko machine 1 will be described. FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing various electronic devices equipped in the pachinko machine 1. The pachinko machine 1 includes a main control device 70 that serves as the center of the control operation. The main control device 70 mainly has a function of controlling the progress of the game in the pachinko machine 1. The main controller 70 is built in the main control board unit 170 described above.

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

  The middle start gate 20 and the right start gate 21 described above are integrally provided with a middle gate switch 78 and a right gate switch 80 for detecting the passage of a game ball, respectively. In addition, the game board unit 8 is provided with a start winning port switch 82 (detection means) and a count switch 84 (detection means) corresponding to the variable start winning device 28 and the variable winning device 30, respectively. Among these, the start winning port switch 82 is for detecting a winning of a game ball to the variable start winning device 28 (start winning port 28a). The count switch 84 is for detecting the winning of a game ball to the variable winning device 30 (large winning opening 30b) and counting the number. Similarly, the game board unit 8 is equipped with a winning port switch 86 for detecting a winning of a game ball to the normal winning ports 22, 24, 25. In addition, a common winning opening switch 86 may be used for all the normal winning openings 22, 24, 25, or a separate winning opening switch 86 may be provided for each of the normal winning openings 22, 24, 25. Good. For example, separate winning port switches 86 are installed on the left and right and center of the board, respectively, and the left winning port switch 86 detects the winning of a game ball with respect to the normal winning port 22 located on the left side of the board, and the center winning port switch In 86, the winning of the game ball to the normal winning port 24 located in the center of the board surface is detected, and in the right winning port switch 86, the winning of the game ball to the normal winning port 25 located on the right side of the board is detected. Good.

  Further, the game board unit 8 is provided with a probability state determination area switch 83 in the above-described ball sorter unit 280. The probability state determination area switch 83 is for detecting that the game ball is distributed to the pocket 282b by the rotating body 282 of the ball distribution device unit 280. Further, the probability state determination area switch 83 is used for processing for determining an internal probability state when a game ball passes through this at an effective timing. The process using the probability state determination area switch 83 will be described later.

  In any case, the detection signals of these switches 78 to 86 are input to the main control CPU 72 via an input / output driver (not shown). In the present embodiment, the winning board detection signal from the middle gate switch 78, the right gate switch 80, the count switch 84, and the winning opening switch 86 is transmitted via the panel relay terminal board 87 due to the configuration of the game board unit 8. It has become a thing. The panel relay terminal board 87 is provided with a wiring pattern, a connection terminal, and the like for relaying each winning detection signal.

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

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

  Further, the game board unit 8 is provided with a ball path switching solenoid 95 and a rotating body motor 97 corresponding to the above-described ball sorter unit 280. Among these, the ball path switching solenoid 95 operates based on a control signal from the main control CPU 72 to operate (swing left and right) the path switching member 284. The rotator motor 97 also operates based on a control signal from the main control CPU 72 to rotate the rotator 282. Note that the control signal is also transmitted from the main control CPU 72 to the ball path switching solenoid 95 and the rotating body motor 97 via the panel relay terminal board 87.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  The pachinko machine 1 includes an effect control device 124 as a control configuration. The effect control device 124 controls the effect accompanying the progress of the game in the pachinko machine 1. The effect control device 124 is also equipped with a circuit board (composite sub-control board) on which an effect control CPU 126 that is a central processing unit is mounted. The effect control CPU 126 includes a CPU core (not shown) and a semiconductor memory such as a ROM 128 and a RAM 130 as a main memory. The effect control CPU 126 can be of a type that is faster (high clock frequency) than the main control CPU 72 and has a wide data bus width (for example, 64 bits). The production control device 124 is provided at a position covered by the back cover unit 178 on the back side of the pachinko machine 1.

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

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

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

  In the present embodiment, a glass frame lighting board 136 is installed on the inner surface of the integrated door unit 4, and drive signals from the lamp driving circuit 132 and the acoustic driving circuit 134 pass through the glass frame lighting board 136 and various lamps 46. , 48, 50, 52 and speakers 54, 55, 56. In addition, the above-described effect switching button 45 is connected to the glass frame electric decoration board 136, and when the player pushes or rotates the effect switching button 45, a contact signal (during the push operation) or a rotation angle signal ( (At the time of rotation operation) is input to the effect control device 124 through the glass frame lighting board 136.

  In addition, a panel board 138 is installed in the game board unit 8, and a movable body solenoid 57 is connected to the panel board 138 in addition to the panel lamp 53. The movable body solenoid 57 drives the movable body 40f, for example, via a link mechanism (not shown). A drive signal from the lamp drive circuit 132 is applied to the panel lamp 53 and the movable body solenoid 57 via the panel illumination board 138, respectively.

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

  The ROM 128 of the effect control CPU 126 stores a basic program related to effect control, and the effect control CPU 126 executes effect control according to this program. The production control includes production control using the various lamps 46 to 53, the speakers 54, 55, and 56, and the movable body 40f as described above, and the production by the image display using the liquid crystal display 42. Includes control. The effect control CPU 126 transmits basic information (for example, effect number) related to the effect to the display control CPU 146, and the display control CPU 146 that receives the information transmits a specific effect image based on the basic information. Control the display.

  The display control CPU 146 outputs a more detailed control signal to the VDP 152. Receiving this, the VDP 152 accesses the image ROM 154 based on the control signal, reads necessary image data therefrom, and transfers it to the VRAM 156. Further, the VDP 152 expands the image data in the frame buffer for each frame (still image per unit time) on the VRAM 156, and each pixel (for example, 24-bit color pixel) of the liquid crystal display 42 based on the buffered image data. ) Individually.

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

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

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

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

  7 and 8 are flowcharts showing a procedure example of the reset start process. Hereinafter, the process performed by the main control CPU 72 will be described step by step.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  Step S111: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes an effect control return process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 sends a command for returning to the effect control device 124 (for example, a model designation command, a time shortening state designation command, a special symbol probability state designation command, a normal symbol operation memory count command, a remaining number cut counter remaining number). Command, special gaming state designation command, etc.). In response to this, the effect control device 124 performs the effect state that was being executed at the time of the previous power shutdown (for example, the effect state corresponding to the time reduction state, the effect state corresponding to the internal probability state, the display mode of the effect symbol, and the operation It is possible to restore the production display mode of the stored number, the sound output content, the light emission state of various lamps, and the like.

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

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

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

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

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

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

  When the above procedure is executed in the reset start process, the main control CPU 72 shifts to the main loop shown in FIG. 8 (connection symbol A → A).

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

  Step S120: The main control CPU 72 executes an initial value update random number update process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 increments random numbers for updating (changing) initial values of various software random numbers. In the present embodiment, various random numbers (for example, a winning symbol random number, a jackpot symbol random number, a reach group) excluding a jackpot determining random number (hardware random number) corresponding to a special symbol and a hit determining random number (hardware random number) corresponding to a normal symbol. (Determined random number, reach mode determined random number, variation pattern determined random number, etc.) are generated on the program. Note that the reach group determination random number and the reach mode determination random number corresponding to the special symbol can be generated as necessary, and if not used, the random number generation process can be omitted. In any case, these software random numbers are updated by a loop counter within a predetermined range in another interrupt process (step S201 in FIG. 9), but each time the random number value makes one round in this process, the loop counter The initial value (not all random numbers need to be targeted) is changed. The initial value updating random number is used to randomly change the initial value, and in step S120, the initial value updating random number is updated. Note that the reason why step S120 is executed after the interruption is prohibited in step S118 is that the same process is executed in another interrupt management process (step S202 in FIG. 9). ) To prevent the above). As described above, in the present embodiment, the big hit decision random number and the hit decision random number are hardware random numbers generated by the random number generator 75, and the update cycle is faster than the timer interrupt cycle (for example, several ms) ( For example, it is not necessary to update the big hit determined random number and the initial value of the hit determined random number.

  Step S121, Step S122: The main control CPU 72 permits the interrupt and executes other random number update processing. The random numbers updated by this processing are random numbers (reach determination random numbers, variation pattern determination random numbers, etc.) that are not related to the determination of the winning type (winning type) among software random numbers. This process is performed in the remaining time when a timer interrupt occurs during execution of the main loop and the main control CPU 72 executes another interrupt management process (FIG. 9). The contents of the interrupt management process will be described later.

[Interrupt management processing (timer interrupt processing)]
Next, interrupt management processing (timer interrupt processing) will be described. FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary procedure of interrupt management processing. The main control CPU 72 executes an interrupt management process every predetermined time (for example, several ms) based on the interrupt request signal from the counter / timer circuit. Each procedure will be described below.

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

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

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

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

  Step S204: Here, the main control CPU 72 executes a security management process. In this processing, the main control CPU 72 determines whether or not to treat the ball as valid based on the input state (ON / OFF) of the winning detection signal read in the previous input processing (step S203) (the winning is valid). Whether or not there is) is determined (winning validity determination means). When the main control CPU 72 determines that the winning is valid, the main control CPU 72 retains a winning detection signal. However, when the main control CPU 72 determines that the winning is invalid, the main control CPU 72 generates an illegal winning error command or due to an illegal winning. The bit of the winning detection signal is rewritten from ON to OFF. In the security management process, the main control CPU 72 monitors for illegal acts by the above magnetic sensor and vibration sensor (not shown), and excessive winning or passing through the middle start gate 20 or the right start gate 21 occurs. It is determined whether or not. The details of the security management process will be described later using another flowchart.

  Step S205: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes switch input event processing. In this process, among the switch signals input in the previous input process, events that occurred during the game based on the passage detection signal from the middle gate switch 78 or the right gate switch 80 and the winning detection signal from the start winning opening switch 82 And further processing is executed in accordance with each event that has occurred. The specific contents of the switch input event process will be described later with reference to another flowchart.

  In this embodiment, when a winning detection signal (ON) is input from the start winning opening switch 82, the main control CPU 72 determines that an event serving as an internal lottery trigger (lottery trigger) corresponding to the special symbol has occurred. When a passage detection signal (ON) is input from the middle gate switch 78 or the right gate switch 80, the main control CPU 72 determines that an event that becomes a lottery trigger corresponding to the normal symbol has occurred. If it is determined that any event has occurred, the main control CPU 72 executes a process corresponding to each event. The processing executed when the passage detection signal is input from the middle gate switch 78 or the right gate switch 80 and the processing executed when the winning detection signal is input from the start winning port switch 82 are further different. This will be described later with reference to the flowchart.

  Step S206, Step S207: The main control CPU 72 executes a special symbol game process and a normal symbol game process during the interrupt management process. These processes are for specifically proceeding with the game in the pachinko machine 1. Among these, in the special symbol game process (step S206), the main control CPU 72 controls the execution of the internal lottery corresponding to the special symbol described above, controls the variable display and stop display by the special symbol display device 34, The operation of the variable winning device 30 is controlled according to the display result. Details of the special symbol game process will be described later with reference to another flowchart.

  In the normal symbol game process (step S207), the main control CPU 72 controls the variable display and stop display by the normal symbol display device 33 described above, and controls the operation of the variable start winning device 28 according to the display result. To do. For example, the main control CPU 72 stores a random number (determined random number per normal symbol) acquired in response to the passage of the middle start gate 20 or the right start gate 21 in the previous switch input event process (step S205). In the normal symbol game process, a random number value is read from the memory, and it is determined whether or not it falls within a predetermined hit range (operation lottery execution means). When the random number value falls within the hit range, the normal symbol display device 33 displays the normal symbol in a variable manner, and after stopping the normal symbol in a predetermined hit state, the main control CPU 72 switches the normal electric accessory solenoid 88 on. Excitingly activates the variable start winning device 28 (lottery trigger generation operation means). On the other hand, if the random number value is out of the hit range, the main control CPU 72 performs a normal symbol stop display in a manner of deviation after the variable display. The details of the normal symbol game process will be described later with reference to another flowchart.

  Step S207a: The main control CPU 72 executes a motor management process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 executes control for operating the rotating body motor 97 in a fixed pattern from when the pachinko machine 1 is powered on. The operation pattern of the rotating body motor 97 may always be a constant speed and a constant direction, or the speed and direction may change at a predetermined cycle.

  Step S208: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes prize ball payout processing. In this process, based on the winning detection signals input from the various switches 80, 84, 86 in the previous input process (step S203), a prize ball instruction command for instructing the number of prize balls is output to the payout control device 92. .

  Step S209: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes external information processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 sends the above-mentioned external information signals (for example, prize ball information, door opening information, symbol determination number information, jackpot information, start port information, etc.) to the hall computer of the game hall through the external terminal board 160. Store in port output request buffer.

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

  Step S210: The main control CPU 72 executes test signal processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 generates various test signals representing its internal state (for example, normal symbol game management state, special symbol game management state, jackpot, probability variation function in operation, time reduction function in operation). These are stored in the port output request buffer. With this test signal, for example, the internal state of the main control CPU 72 can be tested outside the main controller 70.

  Step S211: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a display output management process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 controls the lighting state of the normal symbol display device 33, the normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a, the special symbol display device 34, the game state display device 38, and the like. Specifically, the drive signal stored in the port output request buffer is output to the port in the previous special symbol game process (step S206) or the normal symbol game process (step S207). The drive signal is stored in the port output request buffer as byte data to be applied to each LED. As a result, each LED is driven in a predetermined display mode (a mode of performing symbol variation display, stop display, working memory number display, game state display, etc.).

  Step S212: The main control CPU 72 executes output management processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 outputs the external information signal (byte data) stored in the port output request buffer in the previous external information processing (step S209) to the port. In addition, the main control CPU 72 combines the drive signals (or operation signals) of the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 88, the big prize opening solenoid 90 and the ball path switching solenoid 95, test signals, etc. stored in the port output request buffer. Output.

  Step S213: The main control CPU 72 executes effect control output processing. In this processing, it is confirmed whether or not there is a command (command necessary for presentation control) that the main control CPU 72 should transmit to the presentation control device 124 in the command buffer. Output port.

  Step S214: The main control CPU 72 clears the port output request buffer stored by the current CTC interrupt.

  In the present embodiment, an example is given in which the processing (game control program module) of step S206 to step S213 is executed as a timer interrupt processing. However, these processings are incorporated and executed in the main loop of the CPU. There is also a programming example.

  Step S215: When the above processing is completed, the main control CPU 72 stores a value (01H) for designating the end of interrupt in the interrupt program counter, and ends the CTC interrupt.

  Step S216, Step S217: The main control CPU 72 restores the saved values of the registers (A to L) and permits the next CTC interrupt. Thereafter, the main control CPU 72 returns to the main loop (program address indicated by the stack pointer).

[Security management processing]
FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the security management process executed in the interrupt management process. The contents of the security management process will be described below along with an example procedure.

  Step S220: First, the main control CPU 72 executes a winning validity determination process. In this process, for example, it is determined whether or not the winning is valid for the case where the input state of the winning detection signal read in the previous input process is “ON” (winning validity determining means). The validity determination is made for each of the start winning opening 28a and the big winning opening 30b.

[Significance of “entering ball” and “winning”]
Here, the meaning of “entering ball” and “winning” in the present embodiment will be described.
With respect to the variable start winning device 28 and the variable winning device 30, each “open ball” means that the game ball flows into the start winning port 28a or the big winning port 30b in an open state.

  When the game ball that has entered the ball passes through the through hole (detection unit) of the start winning opening switch 82 or the count switch 84, the winning detection signal of each switch 82, 84 is turned "ON", and the starting winning opening 28a or large This means that “entering ball” into the winning opening 30b is detected.

  However, some detected “entrance balls” are not appropriate. As an example in which the detected “pitch” is not appropriate, there is a case where a game ball flows into the variable start winning device 28 or the variable winning device 30 by some unauthorized means. For this reason, in the winning validity determination process (step S220), it is determined whether or not the detected “entering ball” is treated as effective for security.

  Then, when the main control CPU 72 determines in the winning validity determination process that the “winning” is treated as valid, the “winning” is generated for the first time, and the winning detection signals of the switches 82 and 84 are the following. It is still used as effective in the control process. On the other hand, if “entry” is detected, but the main control CPU 72 determines that the “entry” is not treated as valid (invalid), no “winning” has occurred in the first place. . In this case, the winning detection signals of the switches 82 and 84 are invalidated and are not used for subsequent control processing (lottery or prize ball processing).

  In this embodiment, for the sake of convenience, “determining that the detected“ pick ”” is treated as valid ”in the winning validity determination process is also expressed as“ determining that the winning is valid ”, and“ detected “ “Determining that“ entering ball ”is not treated as valid” is also expressed as “determining that the winning is invalid (invalid)”.

[Criteria]
In the winning validity determination process, the main control CPU 72 determines whether or not the winning is valid based on the following conditions.

[Effectiveness determination for the start winning award 28a]
(1) To the start winning port 28a detected during a series of operations related to the variable start winning device 28 (ordinary electric accessory) and during a period other than a period until a predetermined time (for example, about 4 seconds at the longest) elapses after the operation ends. It ’s not a ball.

[Validity determination for the big prize opening 30b]
(2) Entering the prize winning opening 30b detected during a series of operations related to the variable prize winning device 30 (special electric accessory) and during a period other than a period until a predetermined time (for example, about 15 seconds) elapses after the operation ends. Not a sphere.

  In the determination using the above condition (1), for example, the value of the normal game management status and the values of various winning valid timers are obtained in the interruption period in which the winning detection signal (ON) from the start winning opening switch 82 is input. Can be done with reference. When the condition (1) is satisfied, the main control CPU 72 determines that the “winning” to the start winning opening 28a is treated as valid, and the winning detection signal from the start winning opening switch 82 is also valid in the subsequent control processing. Used for. On the other hand, when the condition (1) is not satisfied, the main control CPU 72 determines that the ball entering the start winning port 28a is not treated as valid, and performs a process of invalidating the winning detection signal from the start winning port switch 82. Do. The normal game management status is internal information that is set on the control by the main control CPU 72 in accordance with the progress of the game corresponding to the normal symbol. The value of the winning valid timer is set in consideration of stagnation of the game ball (so-called ball biting) after the closing time of the variable start winning device 28 has elapsed (for example, about 2 to 4 seconds).

  The determination using the condition (2) is performed with reference to the value of the special game management status or the value of the winning valid timer in the interruption cycle in which the winning detection signal (ON) from the count switch 84 is input, for example. be able to. When the condition (2) is satisfied, the main control CPU 72 determines that the “winning” to the big winning opening 30b is treated as valid and effectively uses the winning detection signal from the count switch 84 in the subsequent control processing. To do. On the other hand, when the condition (2) is not satisfied, the main control CPU 72 determines that the winning ball 30b is not treated as valid and performs a process of invalidating the winning detection signal from the count switch 84. The special game management status is internal information that is set on the control by the main control CPU 72 in accordance with the progress of the game corresponding to the special symbol. The winning valid timer here is also set in consideration of the ball biting after the closing time of the variable winning device 30 has elapsed (for example, about 2 to 4 seconds).

  In the process of invalidating the winning detection signal, determination is made for each of the conditions (1) and (2) for each interrupt cycle, and the value of the invalid winning counter is incremented each time the winning detection signal is invalidated. When the value of the invalid prize counter reaches a specified value (for example, five) for each condition (1) and (2), the main control CPU 72 turns the illegal prize error flag ON (= 1) as internal information. As a result, an “illegal prize error” occurs in the pachinko machine 1.

  Step S222: When the above winning validity determination process is completed, the main control CPU 72 then executes a magnetic detection process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines whether or not there is an illegal act (so-called “magnet goto”) based on a detection signal from the magnetic sensor (not shown). As a result, when a magnetic flux corresponding to an illegal act is detected, the main control CPU 72 sets the security error flag to ON (= 1). As a result, another “security error” occurs in the pachinko machine 1.

  Step S224: The main control CPU 72 executes vibration detection processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines whether or not there is an illegal act (so-called “drilling”) based on a detection signal from the vibration sensor (not shown). As a result, when a vibration that is recognized as an illegal act is detected, the main control CPU 72 also turns on the security error flag.

  Step S226: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a winning excess detection process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 counts the number of winning occurrences per fixed time (for example, 1 minute), and determines whether or not an excessive winning amount equivalent to an illegal act has occurred. If it is determined that the winning is exceeded, the main control CPU 72 also turns on the security error flag.

  Step S228: The main control CPU 72 executes a passage excess detection process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 counts the number of occurrences of passage of the start gate 20 per fixed time (for example, 1 minute), and determines whether or not an excess corresponding to an illegal act has occurred. If it is determined that it exceeds the limit, the main control CPU 72 also turns on the security error flag.

  Step S230: The main control CPU 72 checks the values of the “illegal prize error flag” and the “security error flag”. When any error flag is set to ON (= 1) (Yes), the main control CPU 72 executes the next step S232. If none of the error flags is set to ON (No), the main control CPU 72 does not execute step S232.

  Step S232: In this case, the main control CPU 72 executes error command processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 generates an error command (error state designation command) to be transmitted to the effect control device 124 (effect control CPU 126), and transfers the value to the command transmission buffer. The error command can set a different value for each error that has occurred. For example, when the “illegal prize error flag” is ON, a value that can be identified as “illegal prize error” is set in the error command, and when the “security error flag” is ON, a value that can be identified as “security error”. Set to error command. The error command generated here is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the subsequent effect control output process (step S213 in FIG. 9).

Step S234: Further, the main control CPU 72 executes an illegal winning mask process here. In this process, the main control CPU 72 rewrites all the winning detection signals determined to be invalid from ON to OFF, regardless of whether or not it is determined that the illegal winning error is determined in the previous winning validity determination process (step S220). As a result, the winning detection signal is treated as “OFF (no winning has been generated)” within the same interruption period, and the special symbol change, winning ball payout, etc. are not performed.
When the above procedure is executed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the interrupt management process.

[Switch input event processing]
Next, FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the switch input event process (step S205 in FIG. 9). Each procedure will be described below.

  Step S10: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not a winning detection signal is input from the start winning port switch 82 corresponding to the special symbol. When the input of the winning detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S11 and executes a special symbol storing process. The specific contents of the special symbol storage process (step S11) will be further described later using another flowchart. On the other hand, when no winning detection signal is input (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S12.

  Step S12: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not a winning detection signal is input from the count switch 84 corresponding to the big winning opening. When the input of this winning detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S13 and executes a large winning mouth count process. In the big winning opening counting process, the main control CPU 72 counts the number of winning balls to the variable winning device 30 every round during the big hit game. On the other hand, when no winning detection signal is input (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S14.

  Step S14: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not a passage detection signal is input from the middle gate switch 78 or the right gate switch 80 corresponding to the normal symbol. When the input of the passage detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S16 and executes the normal symbol memory update process. Specific contents of the normal symbol memory update process (step S16) will be further described later using another flowchart. On the other hand, when there is no input of the passage detection signal (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S17.

  Step S17: Further, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not a detection signal (region passage detection signal) is input from the probability state determination region switch 83. When the input of this detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S18 and executes the process at the time of passing through the probability state determination area. The specific contents of the process at the time of passing through the probability state determination area (step S180) will be further described later using another flowchart. On the other hand, if no detection signal is input (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the interrupt management process (FIG. 9).

[Normal symbol memory update processing]
Next, the normal symbol memory update process (step S16 in FIG. 11) will be described. FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the procedure of the normal symbol storage update process. Hereinafter, the procedure of the normal symbol memory update process will be described in order.

  Step S20: Here, first, the main control CPU 72 refers to the value of the normal symbol operating memory number counter to check whether or not the operating memory number is less than the maximum value of 4. The working memory number counter represents the number (number of sets) of random numbers determined per ordinary symbol stored in the random number storage area of the RAM 76. That is, the random number storage area of the RAM 76 is divided into four sections (for example, 1 byte each) for the normal symbols, and one random number determined per normal symbol can be stored in each section. At this time, if the value of the working memory number counter has reached the upper limit (maximum value) (Yes), the main control CPU 72 returns to the switch input event process (FIG. 11). On the other hand, if the value of the working memory number counter is less than the upper limit value (maximum value) (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S21.

  Step S21: The main control CPU 72 adds one normal symbol operation memory number. The normal symbol operation memory number counter is stored in the operation memory number area of the RAM 76, for example, and the main control CPU 72 increments (+1) the value. Based on the counter value added here, the lighting state of the normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a is controlled by the display output management process (step S211 in FIG. 9).

  Step S22: Then, the main control CPU 72 acquires a determined random number value per ordinary symbol from the random number generator 75 through the sampling circuit 77 described above. The random value is acquired by specifying the pin address of the random number generator 75. When the main control CPU 72 has a data bus width of 8 bits, the address designation is performed twice for each upper byte and lower byte. When the main control CPU 72 reads the determined random number value per ordinary symbol from the designated address, it saves it as the determined random number per ordinary symbol in the address of the transfer destination (random number storage area). Note that the determined random number value per symbol may be acquired from the hit random number counter area of the RAM 76, for example. In this case, when the main control CPU 72 reads the determined random number value per ordinary symbol from the designated address, the main control CPU 72 saves it at the transfer destination address as a per-decided random number corresponding to the ordinary symbol.

  Step S23: The main control CPU 72 transfers the saved determined random number per normal symbol to a random number storage area corresponding to the normal symbol, and stores it in an empty section in the area. The order (for example, first to fourth) is set in the plurality of sections. If all the first to fourth sections are empty at this stage, the determined random numbers are stored in order from the first section. . Alternatively, if the first section is already filled and the other second to fourth sections are empty, the determined random numbers are stored in order from the second section. Note that the random number storage area is read in the FIFO format.

  Step S24: The main control CPU 72 executes a normal symbol effect command output setting process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 performs a setting for transmitting, for example, a normal design start sound control command to the effect control device 124. The main control CPU 72 may perform, for example, a prefetch determination process before this process. In this case, the main control CPU 72 determines whether or not the lottery is successful in the pre-reading determination process, and generates a normal destination determination effect command based on the result. And main control CPU72 can perform the setting for transmitting a universal destination determination production | presentation command with respect to the production | presentation control apparatus 124 by step S24.

  When the above procedure is completed or the normal symbol operation memory number has reached 4 (maximum value) (step S20: Yes), the main control CPU 72 returns to the switch input event process (FIG. 11).

[Process when passing through the probability state judgment area]
Next, the details of the above-described processing at the time of passing through the probability state determination area (step S18 in FIG. 11) will be described. FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure of processing when the probability state determination region passes.

  Step S25: First, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the current internal state is a special symbol high probability state. This confirmation can be performed based on the probability variation function operation flag corresponding to the special symbol. That is, the main control CPU 72 reads the value of the probability variation function activation flag from the flag area of the RAM 76, and if the value represents OFF (00H) (No), the main control CPU 72 performs switch input event processing (FIG. 11). Return to. On the other hand, if the flag value represents ON (01H) (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S26.

  Step S26: The main control CPU 72 confirms the current special symbol game state. Specifically, the value of the special game management status is read, and if the value does not represent “special symbol variation display (01H)” (No), the main control CPU 72 performs switch input event processing (FIG. 11). Return to). On the other hand, if the value of the special game management status represents “01H” (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S27.

  Step S27: Here, the main control CPU 72 sets a probability state determination area passing flag. Specifically, the value “01H” is saved in the address corresponding to the probability state determination area passing flag in the flag area of the RAM 76. When step S27 is executed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the switch input event process (FIG. 11). The “special game management status” will be described later together with the details of the special symbol game process (step S206 in FIG. 9).

[Normal design game processing]
Next, the details of the normal symbol game process (step S207 in FIG. 9) executed during the interrupt management process will be described.
FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a configuration example of the normal symbol game process. Normal symbol game processing includes execution selection processing (step S1001), normal symbol variation pre-processing (step S2001), normal symbol variation processing (step S3001), normal symbol stop display processing (step S4001), variable start winning device management. This is a configuration including a subroutine group of processing (step S5001). First, the basic flow of the normal game management process will be described along each process.

  Step S1001: In the execution selection process, the main control CPU 72 selects a jump destination of a process to be executed next (any one of steps S2001 to S5001). For example, the main control CPU 72 sets the program address of the process to be executed next as the jump destination address and sets the end of the normal symbol game process in the “jump table” as the return destination address. Which process is selected as the next jump destination differs depending on the progress of the process performed so far (the value of the normal game management status). For example, if the normal symbol has not yet started to be changed, the main control CPU 72 selects the normal symbol change pre-process (step S2001) as the next jump destination. On the other hand, if the normal symbol variation pre-processing has already been completed, the main control CPU 72 selects the normal symbol variation processing (step S3001) as the next jump destination, and if the normal symbol variation processing has been completed, For example, the normal symbol stop display process (step S4001) is selected as the jump destination. In this embodiment, the jump destination address is specified by the “jump table” and the process is selected. However, apart from such a selection method, a “process flag”, a “process selection flag”, or the like is used. There is also a known programming example in which the CPU selects a process to be executed next. In such a programming example, the CPU CALLs each process in a single way, and at the top step, the conditional branch (continuation / return) is performed by referring to the flag one by one. However, in the selection method of this embodiment, the main control is performed. There is no need for the CPU 72 to call each process one by one.

  Step S2001: In the normal symbol variation pre-processing, the main control CPU 72 performs an operation for preparing conditions for starting the variation display of the regular symbol. The specific processing content will be described later using another flowchart.

  Step S3001: In the normal symbol changing process, the main control CPU 72 controls the normal symbol display device 33 while counting the change timer. Specifically, an ON or OFF drive signal is output to each of the two LEDs constituting the normal symbol display device 33. The pattern of the drive signal changes with the passage of time, whereby a normal symbol variation display is performed. In this embodiment, since the two symbols are alternately lit and extinguished to perform normal symbol variation display, the drive signal pattern can be configured simply (for example, in two patterns), and the main control accordingly. The load on the CPU 72 can be reduced.

  Step S4001: In the normal symbol stop display process, the main control CPU 72 controls the driving of the normal symbol display device 33. Similarly, an ON or OFF drive signal is output to each of the two LEDs, but the pattern of the drive signal is constant, whereby a normal symbol stop display is performed. In the present embodiment, among the two upper and lower LEDs, for example, a stop display at the time of winning is performed with the upper LED lit, and a stop display at the time of non-winning is performed with the lower LED lit. Yes (upper and lower logic may be reversed).

  Step S5001: The variable start winning device management process is selected when the normal symbol is stopped and displayed in the winning manner (for example, the upper LED is lit) in the previous normal symbol stop display process. When the normal symbol is stopped and displayed in a winning manner, in this process, the main control CPU 72 operates the variable start winning device 28 on the assumption that the operation condition is satisfied. The operating conditions for the variable start winning device 28 will be described later.

  While the variable start winning device 28 is in operation, the jump destination is set in the variable start winning device management process (step S5001) in the previous execution selection process (step S1001), and the normal symbol variation display is not performed. In the variable start winning device management process, the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 88 is energized a predetermined number of times (for example, once) so that the variable start winning device 28 operates in a set pattern, and the start winning port is set. It is possible to generate a prize for 28a (lottery opportunity generation operation means). In the present embodiment, the special symbol game process also proceeds with the occurrence of the winning at the start winning opening 28a. However, for the sake of convenience, the normal symbol game process will be explained in advance below. .

[Normal pattern change pre-processing]
Next, FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the normal symbol variation pre-processing. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along each procedure.

  Step S6100: First, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the normal symbol operation memory number remains (is greater than 0). This confirmation can be made with reference to the value of the normal symbol operation memory number counter stored in the RAM 76. When the number of working memories is 0 (No), the main control CPU 72 executes a demo setting process in step S6500.

  Step S6500: In this process, the main control CPU 72 generates a demonstration effect command. The demonstration effect command is output to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process (step S213 in FIG. 9). When the demo setting process is executed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the normal symbol game process.

  On the other hand, if the value of the normal symbol operation memory number counter is greater than 0 (Yes), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S6200.

  Step S6200: The main control CPU 72 executes a normal symbol storage shift process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 reads a random number for lottery (normal random number determined per symbol) stored in the random number storage area of the RAM 76 and stores it in, for example, another common storage area. At this time, if random numbers are stored in two or more sections, the main control CPU 72 sequentially reads the random numbers from the first section, and moves (shifts) the remaining random numbers one by one to the previous section. Each random number stored in the common storage area is used for the operation lottery in the subsequent hit determination process.

  Step S6250: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a normal symbol operating memory number subtraction process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 subtracts one value of the normal symbol operation memory number counter stored in the RAM 76, and sets the value after subtraction to the “normal symbol fluctuation start operation memory number”. As a result, the display mode of the number stored by the normal symbol operation memory lamp 33 changes (decreases by 1) in the display output management process (step S211 in FIG. 9). When the procedure so far is completed, the main control CPU 72 next executes step S6300.

  Step S6300: The main control CPU 72 executes a hit determination process (operation lottery). In this process, the main control CPU 72 sets a range of normal symbol value and determines whether or not the read random number value is included in this range (operation lottery execution means). The range of normal symbol values set at this time is different between the non-time shortened state (when the time shortening function is not activated) and the time shortened state (when the time shortening function is activated). In addition, since the range of the winning value is expanded, the winning probability of the operation lottery is set extremely high as compared with the non-time shortened state. If the random value read at this time is included in the range of the winning value, the main control CPU 72 sets the normal symbol winning flag (01H), and then proceeds to step S6400. In the present embodiment, the hit determination is performed by setting a range of the hit value on the program. However, the hit determination table is written in the ROM 74 in advance, and the hit determination is read and compared with the random number value. There are also programming examples. Further, the specific winning probability for each state will be described later with reference to another drawing.

  Step S6400: The main control CPU 72 determines whether or not a value (01H) is set for the hit flag in the previous hit determination process. If the value (01H) is not set in the hit flag (No), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S6404.

  Step S6404: The main control CPU 72 executes a stop symbol determination process upon disconnection. In this process, the main control CPU 72 sets stop symbol number data at the time of disconnection by the normal symbol display device 33. Further, the main control CPU 72 generates a stop symbol designation command and a lottery result command (at the time of loss) to be transmitted to the effect control device 124. These commands are transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process (step S213 in FIG. 9).

  In this embodiment, since two LEDs are used for the normal symbol display device 33, for example, as described above, the display mode of the stop symbol at the time of disconnection is only the lighting display of one of the LEDs (lower side). The stop symbol number data can be fixed to one value. In this case, the storage capacity used in the program can be reduced, the processing load on the main control CPU 72 can be reduced, and the processing speed can be improved. Such a way of thinking can be similarly applied to a case where a 7-segment LED is used for the normal symbol display device 33.

  Step S6406: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a deviation variation pattern determination process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the fluctuation pattern number at the time of deviation for the normal symbol. The variation pattern number is used to distinguish the type of variation pattern or to define the variation time at that time, and is determined, for example, by random number lottery by the main control CPU 72. That is, the main control CPU 72 refers to, for example, a variation pattern determination table (not shown) in this process and selects a variation pattern number corresponding to a random number per symbol (non-winning one) on this table. In the table, the variation time corresponding to the variation pattern number (for example, 6.0 seconds to 180 seconds) is preset, and the main control CPU 72 acquires the variation time corresponding to the selected variation pattern number from the table. Can do.

  In the present embodiment, except for the case where the deviation reach fluctuation is performed, the fluctuation time at the time of deviation is set based on, for example, “the number of operation memory at the time of start of fluctuation display (0 to 3)” set in step S6250. . The variation time is set differently in the non-time shortened state and the time shortened state. In the non-time shortened state, the variable time is set based on the variation pattern number selected as described above, but is fixed in the time shortened state. A value (for example, 0.6 seconds) is set. The setting of the variation time for each state will be further described later using another drawing.

  The above steps S6404 and S6406 are control procedures when the hit determination result is out of order, but when the determination result is hit (step S6400: Yes), the main control CPU 72 executes the following procedure.

  Step S6410: The main control CPU 72 executes a hit stop symbol determination process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines a winning stop symbol number. However, in this embodiment, since a plurality of winning symbols are not provided for the normal symbol, the main control CPU 72 basically selects one type of stop symbol number at all times.

  Step S6412: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a hit variation pattern determination process. In this process, when the main control CPU 72 acquires the reach group determination random number, the reach mode determination random number, and the variation pattern determination random number from the counter area of the RAM 76, for example, the main control CPU 72 determines the variation pattern (variation time) of the normal symbol based on these values. . In the game by the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment, basically, the hit reach variation pattern including the symbol effect is performed at the time of hitting the normal symbol, so the hit reach change pattern is finally selected here. In general, in the case of the reach fluctuation at the time of hit, the fluctuation time longer than that at the time of the normal fluctuation is determined. Further, the reach group determination random number, the reach mode determination random number, and the variation pattern determination random number may be acquired in, for example, the previous normal symbol storage update process (FIG. 12) other than the acquisition in step S6412. In this case, the main control CPU 72 stores the acquired normal symbol variation random number as a set with the winning random number in step S23 of the normal symbol memory update process. In addition, if the reach group determination random number, the reach mode determination random number, and the variation pattern determination random number are stored, it is possible to generate a notice effect based on the prefetching of the variation pattern before the variation using the stored contents. Is possible.

  Step S6413: The main control CPU 72 executes a hit and other setting process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the display mode of the stop symbol (win symbol) by the normal symbol display device 33 based on the hit symbol number. However, as described above, since the stop symbol number is always one type in the present embodiment, the main control CPU 72 always determines one display mode (lights the upper LED on). The main control CPU 72 generates a stop symbol command and a lottery result command (winning time) to be transmitted to the effect control device 124. These stop symbol commands and lottery result commands are also transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process (step S213 in FIG. 9).

  Step S6414: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes normal symbol variation start processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 selects the fluctuation pattern data based on the fluctuation pattern number (out of time / hit), and sets the fluctuation time value corresponding to the fluctuation pattern in the fluctuation timer. At the same time, the main control CPU 72 sets a normal symbol variation start flag in the flag area of the RAM 76. Then, the main control CPU 72 generates a change start command to be transmitted to the effect control device 124. This variation start command is also transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process. When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the normal symbol game process.

[Figure 14: Normal symbol changing process, Normal symbol stop display process]
When returning to the normal symbol game process, the main control CPU 72 sets the normal symbol changing process (step S3001) as the next jump destination. In the normal symbol fluctuation processing, the main control CPU 72 loads the value of the fluctuation timer from the register to the timer counter as described above, and thereafter, according to the passage of time (clock pulse count number or interrupt counter count number). Decrement the timer counter value. Then, the main control CPU 72 refers to the value of the timer counter and controls the normal symbol fluctuation display as described above until the value becomes zero. When the value of the timer counter becomes 0, the main control CPU 72 sets the normal symbol stop display process (step S4001) as the next jump destination.

  In the normal symbol stop display process, the main control CPU 72 controls the stop display of the normal symbol based on the stop symbol determined in the hit stop symbol determination process (steps S6404 and S6410 in FIG. 15). Further, the main control CPU 72 generates a symbol stop command to be transmitted to the effect control device 124. The symbol stop time command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process. If the stop symbol is displayed for a predetermined time in the normal symbol stop display processing, the main control CPU 72 deletes the symbol changing flag.

[Variable winning device management process]
Next, the variable start winning device management process will be described.
FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating a configuration example of the variable start winning device management process. The variable start winning device management process includes a game process selection process (step S5101), an opening pattern setting process (step S5201), an opening / closing operation process (step S5301), a ball path switching process (step S5310), a closing process (step S5401), This is a configuration including a subroutine group of end processing (step S5501).

  Step S5101: In the game process selection process, the main control CPU 72 selects a jump destination of a process to be executed next (any one of steps S5201 to S5501). That is, the main control CPU 72 selects the program address of the process to be executed next from the jump table as the jump destination address, and sets the end of the variable start winning device management process in the stack pointer as the return destination address. Note that the return address from the opening / closing operation process (step S5301) is the next ball path switching process (step S5310). Accordingly, the main control CPU 72 can continuously execute the opening / closing operation process (step S5301) and the ball path switching process (step S5310) with one call.

  Which process is selected as the next jump destination depends on the progress of the processes performed so far. For example, if the operation of the variable start winning device 28 has not been started yet, the main control CPU 72 selects an opening pattern setting process (step S5201) as the next jump destination. On the other hand, if the opening pattern setting process has already been completed, the main control CPU 72 selects the opening / closing operation process (step S5301) as the next jump destination, and the opening / closing operation process (step S5301) and the ball path switching process (step S5310). If completed, the main control CPU 72 selects the closing process (step S5401) as the next jump destination. When the opening / closing operation process, the ball path switching process and the closing process are executed, the main control CPU 72 selects an end process (step S5501) as the next jump destination. Hereinafter, each process will be described in more detail.

[Open pattern setting process]
Step S5201: In the opening pattern setting process, the main control CPU 72 sets, for example, an operating time (opening time) and the number of operations (opening frequency) as the opening pattern of the variable start winning device 28. In the present embodiment, the operating time and the number of operations of the variable start winning device 28 are set in common in both the non-time shortening state and the time shortening state. The main control CPU 72 sets an opening / closing operation process (step S5301) as the next jump destination.

[Opening and closing operation processing]
Step S5301: In the next opening / closing operation process, the main control CPU 72 drives the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 212 based on the operation time set in the previous step S5201. Thus, the variable start winning device 28 is actually actuated (opened). In this process, the main control CPU 72 counts the elapsed operating time based on the timer counter value. When the value of the timer counter becomes 0 or less, the main control CPU 72 switches the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 212 to the non-operating state (OFF) and sets the closing process (step S5401) as the next jump destination. However, since the main control CPU 72 sets the return destination at the head of the ball path switching process (step S5310) during the operation time timer count, the following ball path switching process continues while the variable start winning device 28 is opened. Executed.

[Sphere path switching process]
FIG. 17 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the sphere route switching process. Hereinafter, the details of the sphere route switching process will be described along a procedure example.

  Step S5312: First, the main control CPU 72 confirms the current special symbol game state. Specifically, the value of the special game management status is read, and it is confirmed whether or not the value represents “special symbol variation display (01H)”. The special game management status is separately set by the main control CPU 72 as follows according to the progress of the game corresponding to the special symbol.

[Special Game Management Status]
That is, the main control CPU 72 sets the value of the special game management status (in the brackets) according to the game progress statuses (1) to (8) corresponding to the special symbol as follows, for example.
(1) Special symbol change waiting state: “00H”
(2) Special symbol fluctuation display state: “01H”
(3) Special symbol stop symbol display state: “02H”
(4) Variable winning device (special electric accessory) waiting to be opened: “03H”
(5) Variable winning device (special electric accessory) open state: “04H”
(6) Variable winning device (special electric accessory) Closed after opening: “05H”
(7) Variable winning device (special electric accessory) closed state: “06H”
(8) Variable winning device (special electric accessory) during operation end state: “07H”

  If the value of the special game management status is other than “01H”, that is, if the current game progress status is other than the special symbol variation display state (01H) (step S5312: No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S5324.

  Step S5324: Next, the main control CPU 72 confirms the current normal symbol gaming state. Specifically, the value of the normal game management status is read, and it is confirmed whether or not the value represents “variable start winning device (ordinary electric accessory) closed state (06H)”. The normal game management status is also set separately by the main control CPU 72 as follows according to the progress of the game corresponding to the normal symbol.

[Normal game management status]
The main control CPU 72 sets the value of the normal game management status (in the brackets) according to the game progress statuses (1) to (8) corresponding to the normal symbols as follows, for example.
(1) Normal symbol variation waiting state: “00H”
(2) Normal symbol fluctuation display state: “01H”
(3) Normal symbol stop symbol display state: “02H”
(4) Variable start winning device (ordinary electric accessory) waiting to be opened: “03H”
(5) Variable start winning device (ordinary electric accessory) open state: “04H”
(6) Variable start winning device (ordinary electric equipment) Closed after opening: “05H”
(7) Variable start winning device (ordinary electric accessory) closed state: “06H”
(8) Variable start winning device (ordinary electric accessory) during operation end time: “07H”

  When the value of the normal game management status is other than “06H”, that is, when the current game progress is other than the variable start winning device (ordinary electric accessory) closed state (06H) (step S5324: No), the main control CPU 72 Here, the ball path switching process is exited and the process returns to the end of the variable start winning device management process (FIG. 16).

  To summarize the control procedure up to this point, for example, the variable start winning device 28 is waiting for release or in an open state (ordinary game management status is “03H” or “04H”). If the ball is not winning and the special symbol is waiting for change (special game management status is “00H”) (step S5312: NO and step S5324: NO), the main control CPU 72, as described above, the variable start winning device Returning to the management process (FIG. 16).

[At the start of special symbol variation]
On the other hand, when the first game ball (first ball) wins at the start winning opening 28a and thereby the condition for starting the change of the special symbol is satisfied (special game management status is “01H”), the main control CPU 72 Advances to step S5314 through the determination in step S5312 (Yes).

  Step S5314: Here, the main control CPU 72 confirms the operating state of the ball path switching solenoid 95. Specifically, it is confirmed whether an operation signal (ON) for the ball path switching solenoid 95 is currently output. The ball path switching solenoid 95 normally swings the path switching member 284 to the right ((A) in FIG. 4) in the non-actuated state (OFF), and first enters the ball during the opening operation of the variable start winning device 28. The played game ball (first ball) is guided to the rotating body 282 as it is. On the other hand, when the ball path switching solenoid 95 is activated (ON), the path switching member 284 swings to the left ((B) in FIG. 4), and the second and subsequent game balls are guided to the discharge path 290. It will be. If the operation signal (ON) has not yet been output to the ball path switching solenoid 95 at this time (No), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5315.

  Step S5315: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the “sphere path switching valid timer” has been set. If the “ball path switching valid timer” has not been set yet (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S5316.

  Step S5316: Here, the main control CPU 72 sets the value of the “ball path switching valid timer”. The value of the timer to be set is, for example, an average required time from the first game ball passing through the start winning opening switch 82 until reaching the path switching member 284, and a special symbol fluctuation time (the shortest). The time is sufficiently shorter than about 0.6 seconds) (for example, about 50 to 100 ms). In such an extremely short time, the first winning game ball can be reliably guided to the rotating body 282, and the second and subsequent balls can be guided to the discharge path 290.

Step S5318: The main control CPU 72 executes a timer countdown process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 subtracts the timer value set in the previous step S5316.
Step S5320: The main control CPU 72 refers to the value of the “ball path switching valid timer”. If the timer value is still greater than 0 (No), the main control CPU 72 exits the ball path switching process and returns to the variable start winning device management process (FIG. 16).

[After timer setting]
The main control CPU 72 sets the value of the “ball path switching valid timer” in a state in which the special symbol is variably displayed (step S5312: Yes) and the ball path switching solenoid 95 is not activated (step S5314: No). After that (step S5315: Yes), the main control CPU 72 continues to execute the procedures of step S5318 and step S5320. When the value of the “ball path switching valid timer” becomes smaller than 0 (step S5320: Yes), the main control CPU 72 executes step S5322.

  Step S5322: Here, the main control CPU 72 outputs an operation signal (ON) to the ball path switching solenoid 95. Specifically, the drive signal is saved in the port output request buffer corresponding to the ball path switching solenoid 95. As a result, an operation signal is output to the ball path switching solenoid 95 in the output management process (step S212 in FIG. 9), and the path switching member 284 actually swings leftward ((B) in FIG. 4).

[During ball path switching solenoid operation]
If the special symbol is variably displayed (step S5312: Yes) and the ball path switching solenoid 95 has already been activated (step S5314: Yes), the main control CPU 72 leaves the ball path switching valid as it is, and the variable start winning device. Return to the management process (FIG. 16).

[After special symbol changes]
Even if the special symbol variation display is finished (step S5312: No), the variable start winning device 28 is still in the open state or the waiting state for the closing effective time (the normal game management status is “04H” or “05H”). (Step S5324: No), the main control CPU 72 repeats the procedure of exiting the ball path switching valid and returning to the variable start winning device management process (FIG. 16).

[When variable start winning device is closed]
Thereafter, when the variable start winning device 28 is in a closed state (the normal game management status is “06H”) (step S5324: Yes), the main control CPU 72 executes step S5326.

  Step S5326: Here, the main control CPU 72 deactivates the ball path switching solenoid 95 (OFF). Specifically, the output of the operation signal to the port output request buffer corresponding to the ball path switching solenoid 95 is stopped (OFF). As a result, the ball path switching solenoid 95 is normally inactivated, and the path switching member 284 returns to the initial position where it has swung rightward.

  When the normal game management status becomes “06H”, the main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination as “close process (step S5401)” in the opening / closing operation process (step S5301) in the variable start winning device management process (FIG. 16). Set to. As a result, the variable start winning device 28 is closed and the path switching member 284 is returned to the initial position, and the subsequent processing can proceed.

[Refer to Fig. 16: Variable start winning equipment management process]
Step S5401: In the closing process, the main control CPU 72 confirms the passage of the closing time (for example, about 2 seconds). For example, the main control CPU 72 counts down the closing time timer, and when the value becomes smaller than 0, the main control CPU 72 ends this process. During the closing time, the detection signal of the start winning port switch 82 is invalidated. Then, the main control CPU 72 sets an end process (step S5501) as the next jump destination.

〔End processing〕
Step S5501: In the end process, the main control CPU 72 sets conditions for ending the operation of the variable start winning device 28. For example, the main control CPU 72 resets the value (01H) of the ordinary electric accessory operation flag. Then, the main control CPU 72 sets the jump destination in the execution selection process (step S1001 in FIG. 14) in the normal symbol game process to the normal symbol change pre-process. When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the variable start winning device management process.

[Normal symbol operating condition setting table]
FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of a normal symbol operating condition setting table. In this normal symbol operating condition setting table, the normal symbol hit probability and variation time are set differently in the non-time shortened state (during normal time) and the time shortened state (during time short), and the variable start winning device 28 for hitting is set. This is for setting an opening pattern (operation time and number of operations).

  As shown in the upper part excluding the heading row in FIG. 18, in the present embodiment, in the operation lottery performed in the non-time shortening state (when the time shortening function is not operated), a normal hit probability (for example, 1 / 99) applies. In addition, for the normal symbol variation display performed in the non-time shortened state, the variation time set using the normal symbol variation random number as described above is applied.

  On the other hand, as shown in the lower part excluding the heading line in FIG. 18, in the operation lottery performed in the time shortening state (when the time shortening function is activated), a higher hit probability (for example, 98/98) than usual. 99≈1 / 1.01) applies. Thereby, in the time shortening state, the operation lottery is won (the operation condition is satisfied) more frequently than in the non-time shortening state, so that the variable start winning device 28 is more likely to be won. Further, for the normal symbol variation display performed in the time shortening state, a fixed variation time (for example, 0.6 seconds) set in advance as described above is applied. However, in this embodiment, the operating time is set to be common (for example, 6.0 seconds) in both the non-time shortened state and the time shortened state, and the number of times of operation (one time) is also set in common. ing.

  The above is the outline of the control method for operating the operation lottery and variable start winning device 28 performed through the normal symbol game process (step S207 in FIG. 9). Next, a special symbol storing process (step S11 in FIG. 11) accompanying the winning to the variable start winning device 28 (start winning port 28a) and a special symbol game process (in FIG. 9) that proceeds with the occurrence of the winning. The contents of step S206) will be described.

[Special symbol memory processing]
FIG. 19 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the special symbol storing process. Hereinafter, the special symbol storage process will be described along with a procedure example.

  Step S30: First, the main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the value of the special game management status is “00H”. The special game management status is set as follows by the main control CPU 72 as described above in accordance with the progress of the game corresponding to the special symbol.

  When the value of the special game management status is other than “00H”, that is, when the current game progress status is other than the special symbol change waiting state (00H) (step S30: No), the main control CPU 72 performs switch input event processing (FIG. Return to 11). On the other hand, if the value of the special game management status is “00H” (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S32.

  Step S32: The main control CPU 72 obtains the jackpot determined random number value from the random number generator 75 through the sampling circuit 77 described above. The random value is acquired by specifying the pin address of the random number generator 75. When the main control CPU 72 has a data bus width of 8 bits, the address designation is performed twice for each upper byte and lower byte. When the main control CPU 72 reads the jackpot determined random number value from the designated address, it saves it as a jackpot determined random number at the address of the transfer destination (random number storage area).

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

  Step S34: Further, the main control CPU 72 acquires, for example, a variation pattern determination random number from the variation random number counter area of the RAM 76 as a random value related to the variation condition of the special symbol. Similarly, the acquisition of the random number value is performed by designating the address of the random number counter area for variation. When the main control CPU 72 acquires the variation pattern determination random number from the designated address, the main control CPU 72 saves it in the transfer destination address.

  Step S36: The main control CPU 72 transfers the saved jackpot determination random number, the jackpot symbol random number and the variation pattern determination random number to a random number storage area corresponding to the special symbol (at this time, an empty state), and stores these random numbers as a set. .

  Step S38: The main control CPU 72 executes a production command output setting process for the special symbol. This process is for performing setting for transmitting a start opening winning tone control command to the effect control device 124, for example.

  When the above procedure is completed or the special game management status is other than “00H” (step S30: No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the switch input event process (FIG. 11).

[Special design game processing]
Next, the details of the special symbol game process executed in the interrupt management process (FIG. 9) will be described.
FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing a configuration example of the special symbol game process. The special symbol game process includes an execution selection process (step S1000), a special symbol change pre-process (step S2000), a special symbol change process (step S3000), a special symbol stop display process (step S4000), and a variable winning device management process. This is a configuration including a subroutine (program module) group of (Step S5000). First, the basic flow of the special symbol game process will be described along each process.

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

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

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

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

  Step S4000: In the special symbol stop display process, the main control CPU 72 controls the drive of the special symbol display device 34. Similarly, an ON or OFF drive signal is output for each segment and dot of the 7-segment LED. However, the pattern of the drive signal is constant, whereby a special symbol is stopped and displayed. In this process, the main control CPU 72 sets the “limiter count” for the probability variation function or performs a subtraction process. The specific contents of the process and the significance of the “limiter count” will be further described later.

  Step S5000: The variable winning device management process is selected when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the winning mode (a mode other than non-winning) in the previous special symbol stop display process. For example, when a special symbol is stopped and displayed in a big hit mode, an opportunity to shift to a big hit gaming state (a special gaming state advantageous to the player) occurs. During the big hit game, the jump destination is set in the variable winning device management process in the previous execution selection process (step S1000), and the special symbol variation display is not performed. In the variable winning device management process, the large winning opening solenoid 90 is excited for a certain period of time (for example, up to 6.0 seconds or until one winning is counted) for a predetermined number of continuous operations (for example, twice). As a result, the variable winning device 30 is opened and closed in a predetermined pattern (variable winning means). During this period, the game ball is entered (winned) into the variable prize winning device 30, thereby giving the player an opportunity to win a prize ball (for example, 6 prize balls are paid out for one prize). (Winning privilege generating means). Note that the opening / closing operation of the variable winning device 30 at the time of a big hit is referred to as “round”, and if the number of continuous operations is two, these may be collectively referred to as “2 rounds”. However, in this embodiment, since the opening time per time is relatively short (6.0 seconds) and the number of counts in one round is the minimum (for example, one), the general 15 rounds Compared with big hits (for example, 1 round 29 seconds open, number of counts 9), the number of prize balls that can be obtained with one big hit (2 rounds) is smaller.

  In any case, when the main control CPU 72 sets the large winning opening opening pattern (number of rounds, number of opening operations per round, opening time, etc.) in the variable winning device management process, the variable winning device 30 for one round Each time the release operation is completed, the value of the round number counter is incremented by one. The value of the round number counter is stored in the count area of the RAM 76 with an initial value of 0, for example. When the value of the round counter reaches the set number of continuous operations (in this example, 2 times), the main control CPU 72 ends the big hit game (main role) only for that round.

  When the big hit game (opening operation of the variable winning device 30) is finished, the main control CPU 72 determines the state (high probability state) after the big hit game based on the game state flag (probability changing function operating flag or time shortening function operating flag). , Change the time reduction state). In the “high probability state”, the probability variation function operates, and the winning probability in the internal lottery becomes higher than usual (high probability state transition means). In the present embodiment, even if the probability variation function is in a “low probability state” in which the probability variation function is not activated, the winning probability in the internal lottery is set to a high value of about one half (for example, about 32768/65536). When shifting to the “high probability state” from here, the winning probability is set to a high probability of about 4/5 (for example, about 52429/65536).

  Also, in the “time reduction state”, the time reduction function is activated and the normal symbol operation lottery has a high probability (for example, 1/99 → 98/99), and the fluctuation time of the normal symbol is reduced. It is set (for example, fixed at about 0.6 seconds). In addition, the variation time of the special symbol is also set to be shorter than the non-time shortened state (for example, fixed at about 0.6 seconds). Note that the “high probability state” and the “time reduction state” may be transferred to only one of them in terms of control, or may be transferred in accordance with both of them. Also, regarding the mechanism of internal state change such as “low probability state” or “high probability state”, “non-time shortening state” or “time shortening state”, the winning symbol (winning type) of the special symbol or the pachinko machine 1 This will be further described later together with the game system.

[Special symbol change pre-treatment]
FIG. 21 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the special symbol variation pre-processing. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along each procedure.

  Step S2100: First, the main control CPU 72 checks whether or not there is a special symbol operation memory in the random number storage area of the RAM 76. Alternatively, the main control CPU 72 may refer to the value of the working memory number counter to confirm whether the working memory number corresponding to the special symbol is other than 0 (= 1). Note that the operation memory of the special symbol is generated when a winning is made to the variable start winning device 28 (start winning port 28a) in the switch input event process as described above. At this time, when it is confirmed that there is still no working memory of the special symbol that should start changing (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game process (FIG. 20). On the other hand, when it is confirmed that there is a special symbol working memory (Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S2300.

  Step S2300: The main control CPU 72 executes a big hit determination process (internal lottery). In this process, first, the main control CPU 72 reads a lottery random number (a jackpot determined random number, a jackpot symbol random number) stored in a random number storage area of the RAM 76. The read random number is stored, for example, in another temporary storage area, and the working memory is erased (consumed) from the random number storage area. Next, the main control CPU 72 sets a range of the big hit value and determines whether or not the read random number value is included in this range (internal lottery execution means). The range of the jackpot value set at this time is different between the low probability state and the high probability state (when the probability variation function is activated). In any case, if the random value read at this time is included in the range of the big hit value, the main control CPU 72 sets the big hit flag (01H), and then proceeds to step S2400.

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

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

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

  Step S2404: The main control CPU 72 executes an off-time stop symbol determination process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 sets stop symbol number data at the time of disconnection by the special symbol display device 34. Further, the main control CPU 72 generates a stop symbol command and a lottery result command (at the time of loss) to be transmitted to the effect control device 124. These commands are transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process (step S213 in FIG. 9).

  In this embodiment, since the 7-segment LED is used for the special symbol display device 34, for example, the display pattern of the stop symbol at the time of disconnection is always set to display only one segment (center bar “-”). The stop symbol number data can be fixed to one value (for example, 64H). In this case, the storage capacity used in the program can be reduced, the processing load on the main control CPU 72 can be reduced, and the processing speed can be improved.

  Step S2405: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a deviation variation pattern determination process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the fluctuation pattern number at the time of deviation for the special symbol. The variation pattern number is used to distinguish the variation display type (pattern) of the special symbol or to correspond to the variation time required for the variation display. Since the fluctuation time at the time of loss differs depending on whether or not it is the above “time reduction state”, in this process, the main control CPU 72 loads the gaming state flag and the current state is “time reduction state”. Check if it exists. However, in the present embodiment, since the accessory game using the ball sorter unit 280 is executed when the deviation between the “high probability state” and the “time reduction state” fluctuates, the execution time is considered and the “high probability state” and the During the “time shortening state”, the fluctuation time at the time of deviation is basically set to a fixed time (for example, about 4 to 5 seconds). If such a fixed time is set, it is possible to suitably execute a sorting operation (an accessory game) using the rotating body 282 of the ball sorter unit 280. The fixed time may be extended to about 10 seconds depending on the structure of the ball sorter unit 280. On the other hand, if the internal state is not the “time shortening state”, the fluctuation time at the time of disconnection is determined based on, for example, a fluctuation pattern determination random number. Then, the main control CPU 72 sets the value of the determined variation time (at the time of disconnection) in the variation timer, and sets the value of the stop display time at the time of disconnection in the stop symbol display timer.

  The above steps S2404 and S2405 are control procedures when the big hit determination result is out of place (in the case of non-winning, non-winning), but the determination result is big hit (step S2400: Yes) or small hit (step S2402: Yes). In this case, the main control CPU 72 executes the following procedure. In this embodiment, even in the low probability state, the winning probability (big hit probability) is a high value of 1/2, and even in the low probability state, the following processing is selected once every two times of fluctuation. First, the case of jackpot will be described.

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

  Step S2412: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a big hit hour variation pattern determination process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the variation pattern (variation time and stop display time) of the special symbol based on the variation pattern determination random number read in the previous step S2300. The main control CPU 72 sets the determined variation time value in the variation timer, and sets the stop display time value in the stop symbol display timer. The fluctuation time at the time of big hit also differs depending on whether or not the above-mentioned “time reduction state”. Therefore, the main control CPU 72 loads the gaming state flag and checks whether or not the current state is the “time reduction state”. In the “time shortening state”, the fluctuation time is basically set to a shortened time (for example, about 0.6 seconds) even at the big hit time. However, in this embodiment, since the character game using the ball sorter unit 280 is executed even during the normal symbol winning in the “high probability state” and the “time shortening state”, the fluctuation time at the time of normal symbol winning is basically Are set to the same fixed time (for example, about 4 to 5 seconds) as that at the time of disconnection. As a result, it is possible to suitably execute a pseudo sorting operation (an accessory game) even when a normal symbol is won in the “high probability state” and the “time reduction state”. The fixed time may be extended to about 10 seconds depending on the structure of the ball sorter unit 280. On the other hand, if it is not “time shortening state”, a variation pattern corresponding to a certain long variation time (for example, about 30 seconds to 60 seconds) is set in order to secure a time for performing an effect during variation at the time of big hit. In any case, the main control CPU 72 sets the value of the determined fluctuation time (at the time of big hit) in the fluctuation timer, and sets the value of the stop display time at the time of big hit in the stop symbol display timer.

  Step S2413: The main control CPU 72 executes a big hit other setting process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the value of the probability variation function activation flag (for example, as a gaming state flag) when the type of winning symbol (hit stop symbol number) determined in the previous step S2410 corresponds to any probability variation symbol, for example. 01H) is set in the flag area of the RAM 76, and a count counter value (for example, 10,000 times) is set together. Further, the main control CPU 72 sets the value (01H) of the time shortening function operation flag as the gaming state flag in the flag area of the RAM 76 when the time shortening function operation count corresponding to the winning symbol determined at that time is added. At the same time, the count counter value (100 times or 10,000 times) is set. Further, the main control CPU 72 generates a time shortening function operation number command (or a count cut counter number command) based on the value of the time shortening function operation number added corresponding to the winning symbol. The time reduction function activation number command generated here is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process. The addition of the type of winning symbol and the number of times the time shortening function is activated will be described later with a specific example.

  In step S2413, the main control CPU 72 determines the display mode of the stop symbol (big hit symbol) by the special symbol display device 34 based on the big hit time stop symbol number. At the same time, the main control CPU 72 generates a lottery result command (at the time of the big hit) together with the stop symbol command (at the time of the big hit). The stop symbol command and the lottery result command are also transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process.

Next, processing at the time of small hit (step S2402: Yes) will be described.
Step S2407: The main control CPU 72 executes a small hit stop symbol determination process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the type of winning symbol at the time of small hit (stop symbol number at small hit) based on the big hit symbol random number. Similarly, the relationship between the big hit symbol random number value and the type of the winning symbol at the time of small hitting is defined in advance in the special symbol selection table for small hitting. In this embodiment, in order to reduce the load on the main control CPU 72, the winning symbol at the time of the small hit is determined using the big hit symbol random number, but a dedicated random number may be used separately.

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

  Step S2408: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a small hit hour variation pattern determination process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the variation pattern (variation time and stop display time) of the special symbol based on the variation pattern determination random number read in the previous step S2300. Further, the main control CPU 72 sets the value of the determined variation time (the number of variation seconds at the small hit) in the variation timer, and sets the value of the stop display time in the stop symbol display timer. The fluctuation time at the time of the small hit also varies depending on whether or not the “time reduction state” described above. Therefore, the main control CPU 72 loads the gaming state flag and checks whether or not the current state is the “time reduction state”. In the “time shortening state”, the fluctuation time is basically set to a shortened time (for example, about 0.6 seconds) even at the small hit time. However, in this embodiment, since the accessory game using the ball sorter unit 280 is executed even in the small hit in the “high probability state” and the “time shortening state”, the fluctuation time at the small hit is basically off. It is set to the same fixed time as the time (for example, about 4 to 5 seconds). As a result, it is possible to suitably execute the sorting operation (the accessory game) even in the small hit of the “high probability state” and the “time reduction state”. The fixed time may be extended to about 10 seconds depending on the structure of the ball sorter unit 280. In the present embodiment, the reach variation pattern can be selected in the case of small hits, and the variation pattern equivalent to that in the normal variation can be selected.

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

  Step S2414: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes special symbol variation start processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 selects the variation pattern data based on the variation pattern number (out of time / big hit / small hit), and sets the value of the variation time corresponding to the variation pattern in the variation timer. The main control CPU 72 sets the value of the stop symbol display time corresponding to the variation pattern in the display timer. At the same time, the main control CPU 72 sets a special symbol variation start flag in the flag area of the RAM 76. Then, the main control CPU 72 generates a change start command to be transmitted to the effect control device 124. This variation start command is also transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process.

  When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 sets the special symbol changing process (step S3000) as the next jump destination and returns to the special symbol game process.

[Fig. 20: Special symbol change processing, special symbol stop display processing]
In the special symbol fluctuation processing, the main control CPU 72 loads the value of the fluctuation timer from the register to the timer counter as described above, and then the timer according to the passage of time (clock pulse count number or interrupt counter value). Decrement the counter value. The main control CPU 72 controls the special symbol variation display as described above until the value becomes 0 while referring to the value of the timer counter. When the value of the timer counter becomes 0, the main control CPU 72 sets the special symbol stop display in-progress process (step S4000) as the next jump destination.

  In the special symbol stop display process, the main control CPU 72 controls the special symbol stop display based on the stop symbol determined in the stop symbol determination process (steps S2404, S2407, and S2410 in FIG. 21). Further, the main control CPU 72 generates a symbol stop command to be transmitted to the effect control device 124. The symbol stop time command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process. When the stop symbol is displayed for a predetermined time in the special symbol stop display process, the main control CPU 72 deletes the symbol changing flag. The special symbol stop display in-progress process will be described later with reference to another flowchart.

[Winning pattern at the time of big hit]
Next, the types of winning symbols determined in the previous big hit stop symbol determination process (step S2410 in FIG. 21) will be described. In this embodiment, the following three types are roughly prepared as winning symbols that are selectively determined at the time of a big hit. The three types of breakdown are, for example, “single (normal) symbol 1”, “probability variation symbol 1”, and “probability variation symbol 2”. Note that these are merely preferred examples, and the above three types of winning symbols are not exhaustive.

  FIG. 22 is a diagram showing a component row of the big hit stop symbol selection table. The main control CPU 72 can determine the type of winning symbol with reference to the big-hit stop symbol selection table shown in FIG. 22 in the previous big-hit stop symbol determination process (step S2410 in FIG. 21). Decision means). Further, the main control CPU 72 can determine the number of times the time shortening function is activated according to the determined gaming state (non-time shortening state, time shortening state, low probability state, high probability state) for each determined winning symbol.

  In the big hit stop symbol selection table shown in FIG. 22, the leftmost column shows the distribution value for each winning symbol, and each distribution value “3”, “32”, “65” has a denominator. This corresponds to a ratio (selection ratio) when 100 is set. In the second column from the left, “single (normal) symbol 1”, “probability variation symbol 1” and “probability variation symbol 2” corresponding to each distribution value are shown. That is, at the time of the big win in the internal lottery, the ratio of “single (normal) symbol 1” being selected is 3/100 (= 3%), and the proportion of “probable symbol 1” being selected is 100 minutes. The ratio at which “probability variation 2” is selected is 65/100 (= 65%). The size of each distribution value corresponds to the selection ratio for each winning symbol using a jackpot symbol random number. The “single (normal) symbol 1” here is a winning symbol (non-probable variation symbol) that does not activate the probability variation function after a big hit. Therefore, in this embodiment, the selection ratio of the probability variation symbol is 97% as a whole, and the “probability variation symbol” is selected at a very high ratio at the time of big hit.

[Time reduction function operation count (time reduction count)]
Next, a description will be given of the difference in the number of times the time shortening function is activated, which is added for each winning symbol (winning type) and each winning state. In the present embodiment, the three types of winning symbols described above differ in the number of times the time shortening function is activated depending on the state at the time of winning. This will be specifically described below.

(1) Low probability non-short-time medium As shown in the third column from the left in FIG. 22, the special symbol (internal lottery) is “low probability state” and the normal symbol (operation lottery) is “non-probable”. It is assumed that the time is in a “time shortening state” (normal time that is neither probabilistic nor time-saving). In this case, when the winning symbol corresponds to “single (normal) symbol 1”, 100 times of the time reduction function operation number are added. In addition, in the case of “single (normal) symbol 1”, the state after the big hit is “low probability state”.

  In addition, when the winning symbol corresponds to either “probability variation symbol 1” or “probability variation symbol 2”, 10,000 times of time shortening function activation times are added respectively. It should be noted that the state after the jackpot is a “high probability state” regardless of whether the “probability variation symbol 1” or “probability variation symbol 2” is met.

  As described above, in this embodiment, when winning in the internal lottery corresponding to the special symbol from the low probability non-short time (probability of 1/2), it becomes “time reduction state” after the end of the big hit game regardless of the winning symbol. . Therefore, the state does not shift to the “high probability non-short-to-medium” state, and is always in the “time reduction state” after the big hit. Further, the difference in the number of time reductions added in the “time reduction state (short time and medium)” is set as follows.

[Limiter count setting]
First, in the present embodiment, with respect to the special symbol (internal lottery), the internal state at the time of winning is “low probability state”, and from there, winning either “probability variation symbol 1” or “probability variation symbol 2” (first winning) Then, for example, in the previous special symbol stop display process (step S4000 in FIG. 25), the above “limiter count” is set based on a predetermined upper limit count (for example, 18 including the first count). (Consecutive number setting means). This “limiter count” is a limit that can be determined continuously when the main control CPU 72 falls under “probability variation 1” or “probability variation 2” when winning in the “high probability state” (when subtracted by updating) Value of the number of consecutive times). Then, when the “limiter count” corresponds to “probability variation symbol 1” or “probability variation symbol 2” at the time of winning in the “high probability state”, one is subtracted each time, and the remaining number decreases. However, while the “limiter count” does not reach the remaining zero (there is one or more remaining), the main control CPU 72 performs the “high probability state” in the previous big hit stop symbol determination process (step S2410 in FIG. 21). It is possible to determine that it corresponds to “probability variation symbol 1” or “probability variation symbol 3” continuously when winning. Therefore, first, a case where there is one or more remaining “limiter count” (before reaching the limiter) will be described.

(2) High probability before and after reaching the limiter For example, as shown in the second column from the right in FIG. 22, the special symbol (internal lottery) is “high probability state” and the normal symbol ( It is assumed that the “operating lottery” is in the “time reduction state”. That is, when the probability probability symbol 1 or the probability variation symbol 2 is met during the low probability non-time reduction in (1) above, the high probability time reduction state is reached after the big hit. Even in this case, the number of times the time shortening function is activated is added regardless of the winning symbol. Specifically, when the winning symbol corresponds to “single (normal) symbol 1”, 100 times of the time shortening function are added. In addition, when the winning symbol corresponds to either “probability variation symbol 1” or “probability variation symbol 2”, in any case, the time reduction function operation count of 10,000 times is added. In this case, since “probability symbol 1” or “probability symbol 2” is continuously won in the “high probability state”, “limiter count” is decremented by 1 as described above. In addition, regardless of whether it is “probability variation 1” or “probability variation 2”, the state after the big hit is a “high probability state” and a “time reduction state”. On the other hand, in the case of “single (normal) symbol 1”, the state after the big hit ends returns to the “low probability state” with respect to the special symbol (internal lottery), but “time reduction state” with respect to the normal symbol (action lottery) Is maintained, and becomes the following "(3) Low probability time short and medium".

(3) Low probability during short time For example, as shown in the second column from the right in FIG. 22, the special symbol (internal lottery) is “low probability state” and the normal symbol (operation lottery) Assuming the case of “time reduction state”. Low probability if it corresponds to “single symbol 1” during the low probability non-short time of (1) above, or “single (normal) symbol 1” during high probability short time before reaching the limiter of (2) above. It becomes a state of short time. In this case as well, the time reduction function activation count is always added to any of the three types of winning symbols. Specifically, when the winning symbol corresponds to “single (normal) symbol 1”, 100 times of the time shortening function are added. In addition, when the winning symbol corresponds to either “probability variation symbol 1” or “probability variation symbol 2”, in any case, the time reduction function operation count of 10,000 times is added. In this case, since “probability variation 1” or “probability variation 3” is initially selected from the “low probability state”, the “limiter count” is reset (set to the remaining 18). In addition, regardless of whether it is “probability pattern 1” or “probability pattern 2”, the state after the jackpot is “high probability state” and “time reduction state” together. ) The high probability time before reaching the limiter is resumed. On the other hand, in the case of “single (normal) symbol 1”, the state after the big hit ends returns to the “low probability state” with respect to the special symbol (internal lottery), but “time reduction state” with respect to the normal symbol (operating lottery) Is maintained.

[When reaching the limiter]
In the “high probability state”, either “probability variation 1” or “probability variation 2” is won (selection ratio 97%), and “limiter count” is subtracted each time. When the “limiter count” reaches the remaining 0, the main control CPU 72 cannot determine that it corresponds to “probability variation 1” or “probability variation 2” when winning in the “high probability state”. Specifically, even if the jackpot symbol random number corresponds to either “probable variation symbol 1” or “probability variation symbol 2”, the final winning symbol is “single symbol symbol 1” or “single symbol symbol 2”. It is forcibly changed to (Winning type restriction means).

(4) High probability at the time of reaching the limiter Short forcible change of the winning symbol is shown in the rightmost column in FIG. That is, when the remaining “limiter count” reaches 0 in the “high probability state” and the “time reduction state”, even if it corresponds to “probability variation 1” (selection ratio 32%) on the table, The final winning symbol is forced to “one-shot symbol 1”. Or even if it is a case corresponding to "probability variation 2" (selection ratio 65%) on the table, the final winning symbol is forced to "single symbol 2". As a result of the forced (restriction) of the winning symbol, the “high probability state” after the remaining “limiter count” reaches zero is not continued, and once the big hit ends, it becomes “low probability state”. It will be forcibly restored. Furthermore, when “single (normal) symbol 1” is normally selected as the winning symbol and when “single symbol 1” is forcibly selected (composition selection ratio 35%), both are 100 times. Although the number of times the time shortening function is activated is added, when the “single symbol 2” is forcibly selected (selection ratio 65%), the number of times the time shortening function is activated is not added (0 times = no time reduction). This means that when the “limiter count” reaches zero, it always returns to the “low probability state” with respect to the special symbol (internal lottery). This means that the rate of recovery is 65% of the total, and the “time reduction state” is maintained at the rate of the remaining 35%.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, it can be seen that the number of times the time shortening function is added is different depending on the state at the time of winning and the number of remaining limiters (before arrival / when reaching). In particular, in the present embodiment, in “(4) High probability when the limiter is reached”, when “single symbol 2” is forcibly selected, the “non-time shortened state” is entered. It turns out that it will be in a "time shortening state". In the present embodiment, the case where the number of times the time shortening function is activated is added is “normal symbol of the first category (normal winning type)”, and the case where the number of times of time shortening function is activated is not added is the “normal symbol of the second category ( Normal winning type) ”.

[Special symbol stop display processing]
Next, FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the special symbol stop display process (step S4000 in FIG. 20). Hereinafter, a method for setting the above “limiter count” and performing the subtraction process together with a specific procedure for the special symbol stop display process will be described.

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

  Step S4200: The main control CPU 72 determines whether or not the stop display time has ended based on the value of the stop symbol display timer subtracted this time. Specifically, if the value of the stop symbol display timer is not 0 or less, the main control CPU 72 determines that the stop display time has not yet ended (No). In this case, the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game process, and jumps from the execution selection process (step S1000 in FIG. 20) and repeatedly executes the special symbol stop display process in the next interrupt cycle.

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

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

  Step S4300: Here, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the value of the big hit flag (01H) is set. When the value of the big hit flag (01H) is set (Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S4310.

  Step S4310: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the current winning symbol is a probability variation symbol. This confirmation can be made based on the big hit stop symbol number. That is, if the current big hit stop symbol number corresponds to one of the above-mentioned “probability variation symbol 1” to “probability variation symbol 3” (Yes), the main control CPU 72 then proceeds to step S4320.

[When probability variation is selected]
Step S4320: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the current winning time is the “high probability state”. When the current winning time is the “low probability state” (No), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S4330.

  Step S4330: In this case, the main control CPU 72 sets the “limiter count” based on the upper limit count (18 times including the first). Specifically, the “limiter count” value is set to 17 (remaining limiter number = 17), and the value is saved, for example, in the remaining counter area of the RAM 76. Here, the reason why the “limiter count” is set to 17 is that the upper limit count is set to 18 including the first win as described above, so that the remaining count is 17 throughout.

  The above is an example of the procedure when the current winning time is the “low probability state”, but when the current winning time is the “high probability state” (step S4320: Yes), the main control CPU 72 Perform the procedure.

  Step S4340: In this case, the main control CPU 72 subtracts (−1) the “limiter count” and saves (updates) the value after the subtraction in the remaining number counter area. For example, if the current winning is the second consecutive “probability symbol 1” or “probability symbol 2”, the “limiter count” is already set to 17 at the time of the first winning, so the main control CPU 72 In the second time, the “limiter count” is decremented by 1, and the remaining is set to 16 times to update the “limiter count”. Or, if this time's winning is “Continuous Variation 1” or “Continuous Variation 2” for the third consecutive time, the “Limiter Count” subtracted 16 times in the second time is subtracted one more in the third time. The “limiter count” is updated with the remaining 15 times. As a result, when the “high probability state” is a big hit, if either “probability variation 1” or “probability variation 2” is consecutively met, the value of the continuous count is updated each time, and the remaining “limiter count” remains. Will decrease (continuous number updating means).

  After this, every time you win, if you fall into “probability pattern 1” or “probability pattern 2” up to the 18th time, the “limiter count” subtracted by the remaining one time in the 17th time is 1 in the 18th time. When one is subtracted, the rest reaches zero. In this case, when the main control CPU 72 executes the previous big hit stop symbol determination process (step S2410 in FIG. 21) at the next winning, the “limiter count” remains 0 when determining the winning symbol using the table of FIG. Since the number of times has been reached, “probability variation 1” or “probability variation 2” is forcibly changed to “single variation 1” or “single variation 2” as described above.

[When single-shot (normal) design is selected]
On the other hand, in the previous step S4310, the current jackpot stop symbol number corresponds to either the above “single (normal) symbol 1” or the “single symbol 1” forcibly determined. In the case (No), the main control CPU 72 then proceeds to step S4345.

  Step S4345: In this case, the main control CPU 72 clears the value of “the number of limiters” to 0 (remaining number of limiters = 0). Note that the main control CPU 72 clears the value of the “limiter count”, for example, when “one-shot symbol 1” is selected as the current winning symbol in the previous big hit stop symbol determination process (step S2410 in FIG. 21). It is good as well.

  Step S4346: In any case, when the above procedure is executed, the main control CPU 72 next generates a limiter remaining number command based on the current “number of limiters”. The limiter remaining number command generated here is output to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process (step S213 in FIG. 9).

  Step S4350: Next, the main control CPU 72 sets the jump destination of the jump table to “variable winning device management processing”.

Step S4400: The main control CPU 72 sets “start of big role (during big hit game)” as an internal state flag for control. At the same time, the main control CPU 72 generates a status command representing a big hit. The state command representing the big hit is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process.
When the above procedure is completed at the time of the big hit, the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game process.

[When not winning]
On the other hand, the following procedure is executed in cases other than the big hit.
That is, if the main control CPU 72 determines in step S4300 that the value of the big hit flag (01H) is not set (No), it next executes step S4500.

  Step S4500: The main control CPU 72 executes a fall process. This process is to maintain the “high probability state” based on the above “probability state determination region pass flag” or “when the special symbol stop display other than the non-winning (other than big hit) in the“ high probability state ”or“ It is determined whether to fall (transfer) to the “low probability state”. The details of the fall process will be further described later using another flowchart.

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

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

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

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

  Step 4610: Next, the main control CPU 72 loads the value of the count-down counter. In the “counting counter”, the counter value is set in the probability variation count area or the time-short count area of the RAM 76 in the “high probability state” and the “time reduction state”. Here, although “number of times cut” is used, the value of the number of times counter in the “high probability state” is set to an extremely large value (for example, 10,000 times or more). Also, in the case of the “time reduction state”, the number of times of operation may be added 10,000 times depending on the winning symbol as described above. By setting such an enormous value, it is possible to probabilistically guarantee that the “high probability state” and the “time reduction state” will continue until the next winning is substantially obtained. In addition, when 100 times is added as the number of times of operation in the “time reduction state”, the value of the count cut counter is set to 100 times, but in this embodiment, the normal symbol in the “time reduction state” (operation lottery) Since the winning probability is approximately one-tenth (98/99), it is probabilistically guaranteed that the “time reduction state” will continue until the next time even 100 times.

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

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

  Step S4650: Here, the main control CPU 72 erases the flag at the time of turning off the number of times function. The probability variation function activation flag or the time shortening function activation flag is erased, but the value of the count-down counter is not substantially zero in the “high probability state” as described above, and similarly In the “time shortening state”, the value of the count-down counter is substantially zero. However, since it may occur theoretically, if the value of the count-down counter actually becomes 0, the corresponding probability variation function activation flag or time reduction function activation flag is deleted. As a result, the “high probability state” or the “time reduction state” ends after the special symbol stop display. When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game process.

[Tumble treatment]
Next, the details of the above-described dropping process (step S4500) will be described.
FIG. 24 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the fall process. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along the example of a procedure.

  Step S4502: First, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the “probability state determination area passing flag” is set (ON). As described above, the “probability state determination area passing flag” is “high probability state” and “special game management status = 01H” with respect to the special symbol, and the game ball that first entered when the variable start winning device 28 was released. Is set when the probability state determination area switch 83 is passed as a result of the distribution by the rotating body 282. In particular, if the “probability state determination region passage flag” is not set (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol stop display processing (FIG. 23). On the other hand, if the “probability state determination region passing flag” is set (Yes), the main control CPU 72 executes the procedure after step S4504.

  Step S4504: In this case, the main control CPU 72 erases the flag for turning off the number-of-times function corresponding to the “high probability state (probability changing function operation)”. As a result, the “high probability state” is terminated for the special symbol, and the “low probability state” is entered from the next change in the special symbol.

Step S4506: Further, the main control CPU 72 clears the value of the count-off counter corresponding to the “high probability state (probability variation function operation)” (= 0).
Step S4508: Then, the main control CPU 72 clears the remaining limiter (= 0).

  Step S4509: The main control CPU 72 generates various commands. Specifically, a state designation command representing “low probability state” and a limiter remaining number command representing “0 remaining”. These commands are transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process (step S213 in FIG. 9).

  When the above procedure is executed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol stop display process (FIG. 23).

[Summary of the falling process]
As described above, in the present embodiment, even when an internal lottery win (big hit) is not triggered during a game in the “high probability state”, the game ball is distributed from the “high probability state” to the “low probability state” by the game ball distribution operation (an accessory game). A process of shifting (falling) to the “probability state” is performed. The conditions for transition (falling) to the “low probability state” at this time are as follows.
(1) In the internal lottery performed in the “high probability state” of the special symbol, it was not winning (including outage and small hits).
(2) The game ball distributed by the rotating body 282 of the ball distribution device unit 280 during the change of the special symbol has passed the probability state determination area switch 83.

  However, even if the above conditions (1) and (2) are satisfied, the “high probability state” shifts to the “low probability state”, but the “time reduction state” does not end. Therefore, the winning probability of the operation lottery corresponding to the normal symbol is maintained higher than the “non-time shortened state”, and the variable start winning device 28 operates more frequently than the normal state. Note that the gameability based on such a fall process will be described later.

[Display output management processing]
Next, FIG. 25 is a flowchart illustrating a configuration example of the display output management process (step S211 in FIG. 9) executed in the interrupt management process. The display output management process includes a subroutine group of a special symbol display setting process (step S1200), a normal symbol display setting process (step S1210), a state display setting process (step S1220), and an operation memory display setting process (step S1230). It is.

  Of these, the special symbol display setting process (step S1200), the normal symbol display setting process (step S1210), and the operation memory display setting process (step S1230) are, as already described, the special symbol display device 34, the normal symbol display device. 33 and a process of generating and outputting a drive signal applied to each LED of the normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a.

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

  In this state display setting process (step S1220), the main control CPU 72 also controls the firing position designation display lamp 38e of the game state display device 38. For example, the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal to the LED corresponding to the launch position designation display lamp 38e when the special game is being executed or the time reduction function is in operation.

[Variable winning device management process]
Next, details of the variable winning device management process will be described.
FIG. 26 is a flowchart illustrating a configuration example of the variable winning device management process. The variable winning device management process includes a gaming process selection process (step S5100), a special winning opening opening pattern setting process (step S5200), a special winning opening / closing operation process (step S5300), a special winning opening closing process (step S5400), and an end. This is a configuration including a subroutine group of processing (step S5500).

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

  Step S5200: In the special winning opening opening pattern setting process, the main control CPU 72 sets the opening pattern for each opening time, closing time, interval and number of rounds in one round. In the present embodiment, the maximum open time of one round is, for example, “6.0 seconds”, the closing time is, for example, “about 0.5 seconds”, and the number of rounds is fixed to “2 rounds”. As a result, values are set in the open timer, the close timer, the interval timer, and the round number counter, respectively. Then, the main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination in the big winning opening / closing operation process. However, the above opening pattern is merely an example, and the present invention is not limited to this.

  Step S5300: Next, in the big winning opening / closing operation processing, the main control CPU 72 controls the opening / closing operation (opening operation) of the variable winning device 30. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 outputs a drive signal to be applied to the special winning opening solenoid 90. As a result, the opening / closing member 30a of the variable winning device 30 is displaced from the closed position to the open position, and it becomes possible to generate a winning (winning) at the big winning opening 30b. Further, the main control CPU 72 executes a countdown of the release timer, and if the value of the release timer is not less than or equal to 0, then the main control CPU 72 executes the counting of the number of winning balls. When it is confirmed that the opening time has ended or the count number has reached a predetermined number (for example, one), the main control CPU 72 closes the special winning opening. Specifically, the output of the drive signal applied to the special winning opening solenoid 90 is stopped. As a result, the variable winning device 30 returns from the open state to the closed state.

  Thereafter, the main control CPU 72 executes the count-down of the closing timer. When the value of the closing timer becomes 0 or less, the main control CPU 72 subsequently executes the count-down of the interval timer (only the first round). When the value of the interval timer becomes 0 or less, the next jump destination is set to the big prize closing process. In the second round, when the value of the closing timer becomes 0 or less, the main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the big prize closing process.

  Step S5400: In the special winning opening closing process, the main control CPU 72 continues the operation of the variable winning device 30 or ends the operation. That is, if the current gaming state is a big hit (a big game), the main control CPU 72 increments the round number counter. Thereby, for example, the first round ends, and the value of the round number counter increases at the stage toward the second round. The main control CPU 72 resets the winning ball counter when the next jump destination is set to the large winning opening / closing operation processing.

  When the main control CPU 72 next executes the variable winning device management process, the main control CPU 72 executes a big winning opening / closing operation process as the next jump destination in the game process selection process (step S5100). Then, the variable winning device until the actual number of rounds reaches the set number of execution rounds (2 times) by the main control CPU 72 executing the special prize opening closing process again after the special prize opening opening / closing operation process is executed. 30 opening and closing operations are executed continuously. When the actual round number reaches the set execution round number, the main control CPU 72 resets the round number counter (= 0), and sets the next jump destination to the end process. Further, the main control CPU 72 resets the winning ball counter and returns to the variable winning device management process. As a result, when the main control CPU 72 next executes the variable winning device management process, the end process is selected this time.

〔End processing〕
FIG. 27 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the procedure of termination processing. This end process is for preparing conditions for ending the operation of the variable prize apparatus 30. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along a procedure.

Step S5502: The main control CPU 72 resets the big hit flag (00H). As a result, the big hit gaming state ends on the control processing of the main control CPU 72.
Step S5504: Also, the main control CPU 72 ends the state of being a big player internally here.

  Step S5505: Next, the main control CPU 72 refers to the flag area of the RAM 76 and checks whether or not the value (01H) of the probability variation function operation flag is set. This flag is set in the big hit other setting process (step S2413 in FIG. 21) during the previous special symbol fluctuation pre-processing.

  Step S5506: When the value of the probability variation function activation flag is set (step S5505: Yes), the main control CPU 72 sets the number-of-times cut function activation flag corresponding to the probability variation function. Thereby, the internal state after the end of the big hit game is set to the “high probability state”.

  Step S5507: The main control CPU 72 sets the number of probability fluctuations (for example, about 10,000). The set value of the probability variation number is stored, for example, in the probability variation counter area of the RAM 76 and becomes the above-described number cut counter value. The probability variation number set here is the upper limit number of times that the variation of the special symbol (internal lottery) is performed in a high probability state in the subsequent games. However, with a high probability (about 65,535,65536), the non-winning will hardly continue 10,000 times, so the high probability state will continue substantially until the next winning. If the value of the probability variation function operation flag is not set (step S5505: No), the main control CPU 72 does not execute steps S5506 and S5507.

  Step S5510: Next, the main control CPU 72 refers to the flag area of the RAM 76 and checks whether or not the value of the time reduction function operation flag (01H) is set. This time shortening function operation flag is also set in the big hit other setting process (step S2413 in FIG. 21) during the previous special symbol fluctuation pre-processing. If the time reduction function operation flag is set (Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5511.

  Step S5511: When the value of the time shortening function operation flag is set (step S5510: Yes), the main control CPU 72 sets the time cut function operating flag corresponding to the time shortening function. As a result, the internal state after the end of the big hit game is set to the “time reduction state” (processing as the time reduction state transition means or the time reduction state maintenance means).

  Step S5512: Also, the main control CPU 72 sets the value of the count-down counter corresponding to the time shortening function based on the number of times the time shortening function is activated (100 times or 10,000 times) corresponding to the current winning symbol. The set number-of-times counter value is stored in the above-mentioned time count area of the RAM 76. If the time reduction function operation flag is not set (step S5510: No), the main control CPU 72 does not execute steps S5511, S5512. In this case, it does not shift to the “time reduction state” after the big hit ends (processing as a non-time reduction state return means).

  Step S5514: The main control CPU 72 generates a state designation command here. Specifically, with the reset of the big hit flag, a state designation command that represents “normally” as the gaming state is generated. In addition, when the value of the count-off counter is set based on the number of times the probability variation function is activated, a state designation command indicating “high probability” is generated as the internal state, When “” is set, a state designation command indicating “time reduction state” is generated as an internal state. These state designation commands are transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process (step S213 in FIG. 9).

  Step S5516: After the above procedure at the time of the big hit, the main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the big winning opening opening pattern setting process.

  Step S5518: The main control CPU 72 sets the jump destination in the execution selection process (step S1000 in FIG. 20) in the special symbol game process as the special symbol variation pre-process. When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the variable winning device management process.

  The above is the contents of various control processes performed by the main controller 70 (main control CPU 72). When the main control CPU 72 executes these processes, the game by the pachinko machine 1 is specifically progressed.

[Game Flow]
Next, FIG. 28 is a game flow diagram showing an example of a game flow by the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment. A game by the pachinko machine 1 proceeds by driving (launching) a game ball into the game area 8a in accordance with the player's operation. Hereinafter, the flow of the game on the premise that the game ball is launched will be described. In the following description, reference numerals F1 to F47 and the like in the drawings are indicated with parentheses as appropriate. Further, “winning” used in the following description means that “the detected ball is treated as valid”.

[F1] During normal game For example, when a player starts a game with the pachinko machine 1, it is assumed that the internal state of the pachinko machine 1 is in a "normal game" state. In the present embodiment, the state of “in normal game” means “non-time shortened state” with respect to the normal symbol (operating lottery) and “low probability state” with respect to the special symbol (internal lottery).

[F2] Normal symbol non-winning [F1] During normal game, when the game passes through the middle start gate 20 (or the right start gate 21), the above-described operation lottery is executed. When the result of the operation lottery is non-winning, no internal state change occurs, and [F1] normal game is continued as it is.

[F3] Per normal symbol in normal game On the other hand, [F1] If the game lottery is won during normal game, the game flow proceeds to the next stage.

[F4] Variable Start Winning Device Operation In this case, the variable start winning device 28 is operated, and it becomes possible to generate a winning at the start winning port 28a as described above. Due to the configuration of the game area 8a (board surface), it is necessary to drive a game ball toward the right side in the game area 8a after winning the normal symbol (action lottery).

[F5] No winning When the variable starting winning device 28 is in operation (operating time 6.0 seconds) and no winning is made to the starting winning port 28a, the game flow returns to [F1] normal game. In this case, the game flow is resumed from the operation lottery.

[F6] Starting Port Winning In contrast, when a winning to the starting winning port 28a occurs while the variable start winning device 28 is operating (operating time 6.0 seconds), the game flow further proceeds to the next stage. In addition, although the winning that triggers the internal lottery is valid only once, each time a plurality of winnings (on average, 7 to 8 winnings) occur during operation of the variable start winning device 28, A prize bonus (for example, 12 prize ball payouts per prize ball) is given to the player.

[F7] Special symbol variation A special symbol (internal lottery) is performed in response to the occurrence of a winning at the start winning port 28a. As a result, the special symbol display device 34 displays the variation of the special symbol. Further, when the fluctuation time has elapsed, the special symbol is stopped and displayed according to the result of the internal lottery.

[F8] Non-winning When the internal lottery is not won, the special symbol is stopped and displayed in a non-winning manner. In this case, the game flow returns to [F1] normal game and is resumed from the operation lottery.

[F11] One-shot symbol 1 winning When the winning symbol is an internal lottery and the current winning symbol corresponds to the above-mentioned “single (normal) symbol 1”, the special symbol is stopped and displayed in a manner representing “single (normal) symbol 1”. Is done. In this case, the game flow further proceeds to the next stage.

[F12] Variable winning device operation
The variable winning device 30 is opened by winning in the special symbol (internal lottery), and the number of times of opening is 2 (2 rounds). In the case of “single (normal) symbol 1”, the probability variation function activation flag is not set, but the time reduction function activation count is set to 100 times. For this reason, the game flow after the opening operation of the variable winning device 30 is not [F1] during normal game, but proceeds to the stage of [F31] time reduction. In addition, the game flow from [F31] time is described later.

[F16] Probability Variation 1, 2 Winning On the other hand, if the winning symbol corresponds to the above-mentioned “probability variation 1”, the special symbol is stopped and displayed in a manner representing “probability variation 1”. Alternatively, when the winning symbol corresponds to the “probability variation 2”, the special symbol is stopped and displayed in a manner representing the “probability variation 2”. In either case, the game flow proceeds to the following stage.

[F14] Limiter remaining number set [F1a] In the case of normal winning, “limiter count” is internally set to the remaining 17 (limiter remaining number = 17).

[F18] Variable winning device operation (big hit / small hit operation)
By winning the special symbol (internal lottery), the variable winning device 30 performs a two-round opening operation. In addition, when either of the “probability variation symbol 1” or “probability variation symbol 2” is met, the probability variation function operation flag is set and the time reduction function operation frequency is set to 10,000 times. The game flow after the opening operation of 30 proceeds to the probability change (high probability, short time: F19).

  Although not specifically shown here, in this embodiment, there is “small hit” as a flow other than winning, and in this case, [F7] variable winning device 30 as “small hit operation” following special symbol variation. Is operated. [F1] When the “small hit operation” is performed following the [F7] special symbol change from the normal game, the game flow returns to the [F1] normal game.

[F19] Probability change (high probability, short time)
In the present embodiment, once the game flow enters [F19] probability change, it is easy to continue [F19] probability change in terms of probability. Hereinafter, this point will be specifically described.

[F20] Normal symbol non-winning [F19] During probability change, the winning probability of the normal symbol (working lottery) is set to approximately one-tenth (98/99), so it is probable that it will not win rare. However, in theory, there is a possibility of non-winning, and if it is not won, the game in [F19] probability change will be continued.

[F21] Per normal symbol during probability change In the present embodiment, due to the configuration of the game area 8a (board surface), [F19] During the probability change, a game ball is shot into the right side portion in the game area 8a (so-called "right hit"). Is assumed. As a result, when the game ball passes through the right start gate 21, it is won with almost one change of the normal symbol. Since the variation time is shortened (0.6 seconds) as described above, the game flow proceeds to the next stage within a very short time.

[F22] Variable start winning device operation The variable start winning device 28 is activated by winning the normal symbol (actuation lottery), and the start winning port 28a is ready for winning. In the present embodiment, the operating time of the variable start winning device 28 is constant (6.0 seconds) even in the “time reduction state”. However, if a game ball is driven into the right side portion in the game area 8a, the game ball flows down toward the variable start winning device 28 that is operating as it is.

[F23] No winning Even if no winning is made to the starting winning opening 28a during the operation of the variable starting winning device 28 for some reason (out of ball, clogged ball, etc.), the game flow is [F19] As the inside continues, there is no extreme penalty for the player.

[F24] Start opening prize [F19] If a winning to the start winning opening 28a occurs during the operation of the variable start winning apparatus 28 due to the "right-handed" flow during the probability change, the game flow proceeds to the next stage.

[F25] Special Symbol Variation Similarly, a special symbol (internal lottery) is performed in response to the occurrence of a winning at the start winning port 28a. As a result, the special symbol display device 34 displays the variation of the special symbol. Further, when the fluctuation time has elapsed, the special symbol is stopped and displayed according to the result of the internal lottery.

[F27] Probability Symbol 1, 2 Winning In this embodiment, since the probability variation ratio is 97% of the total as described above, the probability changing symbol is selected with high frequency when winning. [F19] When the winning symbol falls under either “probability variation symbol 1” or “probability variation symbol 2” during probability variation, 10,000 times are added as the number of times the time shortening function is activated as described above. In [F19], the continuation during the probability change is confirmed internally.

[F28] Limiter remaining number -1
In this case, since the positive variation is continuously selected in the “high probability state”, the “limiter count” is subtracted internally (limiter remaining number−1).

[F18] Variable winning device operation (big hit / small hit operation)
Similarly, the variable winning device 30 performs a two-round opening operation by winning a special symbol (internal lottery). The probability variation function activation flag is set and the time shortening function activation count is set to 10000 times for both cases of “probability variation symbol 1” and “probability variation symbol 2”. In addition, the game flow after the opening operation of the variable winning device 30 continues to be in the process of being probabilistic (high probability, short time: F19).

[Chance zone due to certain change]
As described above, once the game flow shifts to [F19] during certain change, [F21] from the normal symbol [F22] variable start winning device operation, [F24] start opening winning, [F25] special symbol fluctuation, [F27 ) Probability symbol 1, 2, winning, [F28] Limiter remaining -1, and [F18] Variable winning device activated, [F19] Looping during probability change is most frequent (or probability, rate, ratio) It becomes easy to occur. In this case, the variable start winning device 28 is operated once in a loop, and the variable winning device 30 performs a two-round opening operation. Therefore, a game ball is basically located on the right side in the game area 8a. If the player has been struck, the winning ball is paid out in response to the winning occurrence (winning privilege generating means).

  Each time the above loop is performed once, [F28] Limiter remaining number -1 decreases the remaining "limiter count", but the same frequency remains high until the remaining zero is reached. The loop will be repeated.

[F26] Non-Winning On the other hand, with regard to special symbols (internal lottery), the winning probability in the “high probability state” is 4/5 (52429/65536), so that a non-winning may occur with a probability of 1/5. .

[F53] Small Win In the present embodiment, as a result other than winning in the internal lottery, a small win can occur in addition to a non-win.

[Additional game]
In the present embodiment, the game flow is such that an “additional accessory game” using the ball sorter unit 280 is performed at the time of [F19] non-winning and [F53] small hit from [F19] during the probability change. . Here, “addition” means to increase (reset) the “limiter count” after setting [F14] remaining limiter = 17. When the “addition” occurs, the game in the [F19] probability change can be executed over a long period as a whole, and the profit for the player increases. Then, the “superior game” using such a ball sorter unit 280 is performed as an operation that can be visually recognized by the player as “game ball sorting operation using the rotating body 282”. Hereinafter, this point will be described.

[F50] Gate non-passing (when not winning)
When [F26] is not won in the internal lottery and the first game ball is distributed to the collection hole 282a of the rotator 282, the result of the “additional accessory game” does not pass through the gate. In this case, the game flow only continues during [F19] probability change, and there is no extreme disadvantage for the player. Rather, it can be said that it is advantageous for the player because the [F24] start opening prize (opportunity for the winning ball) can be obtained for one time without reducing the “number of limiters”. In addition, since the number of times the time shortening function is activated is set to a maximum of 10,000 times, even if one non-winning and gate non-passing occurs, the number of time shortening still remains, and it is still in an advantageous state The game will progress.

[F54] Gate non-passage (at the time of small hit)
When an internal lottery results in [F53] small hit and the first game ball is distributed to the collection hole 282a of the rotator 282, the result of the “additional accessory game” is not passed through the gate. In this case, however, the game flow continues through [F18] variable winning device operation (small hitting operation) and [F19] during probability change. In addition, since the small win itself is a result other than winning, the same [F24] start entrance prize (opportunity ball opportunity) can be obtained without reducing the remaining “limiter count” as in the case of non-winning. [F18] Since the opportunity to operate the variable winning device is obtained, it is rather advantageous for the player. In this case as well, since the number of times the time shortening function is activated is set to a maximum of 10,000 times, even if one non-winning and non-passing of the gate occurs, the number of time reductions still remains, which is still advantageous. The game in the state progresses.

  The above is a game flow when the result of the internal lottery is “non-pass through gate” other than winning, but these are patterns of “failure (no extra)” as a result of the “additional bonus game” . On the other hand, the pattern of “success (with extra)” as a result of the “additional accessory game” is realized by the following game flow.

[F51], [F55] Passing through gate When [F26] is not won in the internal lottery and the first game ball entered the variable start winning device 28 is distributed to the pocket 282b of the rotating body 282, or in the internal lottery [F53] When the game ball that has first entered the variable start winning device 28 is distributed to the pocket 282b of the rotating body 282, the result of the “additional accessory game” is passed through the gate (probability state determination area switch 83). In these cases, the game flow is as follows.

[F52], [F56] Additional notification [F51], [F55] In response to the result of the passage of the gate, an “addition notification” is performed on the performance. In addition, the addition (resetting of the number of limiters) does not occur immediately after passing through the probability state determination area switch 83. However, since the addition is determined in terms of control, the “addition notification effect” is performed here. Yes. Note that an example of the effect of adding notification will be described later.

[F56] Additional notification → [F30] Variable winning device operation (small hitting operation)
When “small hit” and “gate passage” occur in the internal lottery performed in the “high probability state”, the probability variation function operation flag is cleared by the above-described falling process (FIG. 24). In this case, the transition to the “low probability state” (falling) is triggered by the special symbol stop display. Further, the variable winning device 30 is operated as a result of “small hit”. However, since the “time shortening state” continues, when [F30] variable winning device operation (small hitting operation) is completed, [F31] a gaming state in which the time is shortened (continuous number resetting opportunity generating means).

[F52] Addition notification → [F31] Shorter time Also, if “not win” and “pass through the gate” occur in the internal lottery performed in the “high probability state”, the probability variation function in the above-described fall processing (FIG. 24) The operation flag is cleared. In this case, the transition to the “low probability state” (falling) is triggered by the special symbol stop display, but the time reduction function is in operation. For this reason, the game flow after the [F52] addition notification also shifts to a short time (low probability short time) (continuous number resetting opportunity generating means).

[F20] Normal symbol non-winning In any case, during [F31] short time, the winning probability of the normal symbol (working lottery) is set to about 1 (98/99), so it is not probable There is little to be. In theory, however, there is a possibility of non-winning, so if it is not won, the game in [F31] time is continued.

[F32] per normal symbol during time reduction [F31] Even during the time reduction, if the game ball passes through the right start gate 21 in the “right-handed” flow as it is, it is won with almost one normal symbol change. Since the variation time is shortened (0.6 seconds) as described above, the game flow proceeds to the next stage within a very short time.

[F33] Variable start winning device operation The normal start (operating lottery) winning operation activates the variable start winning device 28 so that a winning can be generated at the start winning port 28a.

[F34] No win Similarly, even if no winning is made to the start winning opening 28a during the operation of the variable start winning device 28 for some reason (out of ball, clogged ball, etc.), the game flow is [ F31] Since the time is continued, there is no extreme penalty for the player.

[F35] Start opening prize [F31] If the winning to the start winning opening 28a occurs during the operation of the variable start winning apparatus 28 due to the "right-handed" flow in the short time, the game flow proceeds to the next stage.

[F36] Special Symbol Variation Similarly, a special symbol (internal lottery) is performed in response to the occurrence of a winning at the start winning opening 28a. As a result, the special symbol display device 34 displays the variation of the special symbol. Further, when the fluctuation time has elapsed, the special symbol is stopped and displayed according to the result of the internal lottery.

  [F31] Although the game ball enters the ball sorter unit 280 during the time reduction, the “additional accessory game” is not executed here. For example, although LED lighting is attached to the ball sorter unit 280, even if the variable start winning device 28 is opened during [F31] time shortening, the LED lighting is not turned on, and the ball sorter unit 280 has an internal illumination. The movement is visually inconspicuous.

[F37] Short-term non-winning For special symbols (internal lottery) during short-time, the winning probability in the “low probability state” is one half (32768/65536), so a non-winning can occur probabilistically. . If the internal lottery is not won, the special symbol is stopped and displayed in a non-winning manner. However, since the game flow continues during [F31], there is no extreme penalty for the player. Further, it can be said that it is advantageous for the player because the [F24] start opening prize (opportunity for winning ball) can be obtained once with the operation of the variable start winning device 28. And since the number of times the time shortening function is activated is set to 100 times, even if one non-winning event occurs, there still remains a sufficient number of time reductions (99 times).

[F61] Small hits during short hours Even during short hours, small hits can be generated by internal lottery. If the internal lottery results in a small win, the special symbol is stopped and displayed in a small hit state, and [F30] variable winning device operation (small hit operation) proceeds, but the game flow continues during [F31] So there is no extreme penalty for the player. Further, since the [F33] start opening prize (opportunity ball opportunity) for one time is obtained together with the operation of the variable prize winning device 30, it is rather advantageous for the player. And since the number of times of the time shortening function is set to 100 times, even if one small hit occurs, the number of time reductions (99 times) still remains.

[F38] Probability change symbol 1 and 2 winning in short time And since the probability change ratio is 97% of the whole as described above, the probability change symbol is also selected with high frequency at the time of winning. [F31] When the winning symbol corresponds to either “probability variation symbol 1” or “probability variation symbol 2” from the time shortening, 10,000 times are added as the number of times of the time reduction function operation as described above.

[F39] Number of remaining limiters = 17
In this case, since [F31] the “low probability state” during the time reduction corresponds to the first probability variation winning, the “limiter count” is internally reset here (the limiter remaining) Number = 17). Furthermore, in this case, since it is a chance variation winning game, the following game flow will proceed.

[F18] Variable winning device operation (big hit)
By winning the special symbol (internal lottery), the variable winning device 30 performs a two-round opening operation. [F31] The probability variation function activation flag is set and the time shortening function activation count is set to 10000 times for any of the cases where “probability variation symbol 1” or “probability variation symbol 2” falls under time reduction. Therefore, the game flow after the opening operation of the variable winning device 30 is actually changed (high probability time short: F19) is resumed (re-entry, return).

[Addition of limiter by passing through gate during probability change]
In the above game flow, even if the “limiter count” is subtracted to some extent while repeating the loop under [F19] probability change, if “additional accessory game success (gate passage)” occurs in the middle, As a result, the “limiter count” is reset and the “time reduction state” continues, and from that, “limiter count” is reset to the maximum value by winning “probability variation symbol 1” or “probability variation symbol 2”. Meaning (Consecutive count resetting trigger generation means).

  As a result, even if [F19] “Limiter count” during probability change is reaching zero, if “Additional accessory game success (passing through gate)” occurs before that, Since the “number of times” is reset, a game characteristic of “addition by an accessory game” that can extend the number of loops during [F19] probability change is realized.

[F40] One-time symbol 1 winning during short time Note [F31] If the winning symbol is “single (normal) symbol 1” following the time-shortening, 100 times will be added as the number of times the time shortening function is activated. . Accordingly, the game flow continues for [F31] time reduction after [F30] variable winning device operation.

[F29] One-shot symbol 1 winning during probability change On the other hand, if [F19] The winning symbol falls under “single (normal) symbol 1” during probability variation, the “high probability state” is not maintained because it is not a probability variation symbol. Since 100 is added as the number of shortening function operations, the continuation of the “time shortening state” is promised internally at this point. Then, after [F30] variable winning device operation (big hit), the shift is made to [F31] time reduction, and the limiter is reset through the winning variation 1 and 2 winning in [F38] time reduction. Such a flow is “internal addition” and is not related to the sorting operation in the ball sorter unit 280. However, in this embodiment, [F29] Even when “addition” occurs, a “additional accessory game” is executed in a pseudo manner using the ball sorter unit 280.

[F57] Passing through the gate at the time of single-shot winning In this case, since the addition has succeeded internally, “passing through the gate” is not a condition for the addition, but as described above, the visual by the ball sorter unit 280 Using the appropriate sorting action, “Succeeding on the extra game (passing through the gate)” will be appealed in the production.

[F58] Addition Notification Accordingly, here, “addition notification” is performed in the production, and the player is given a feeling as if the addition has occurred due to “success in the added bonus game (passing through the gate)”.

[F59] Gate non-pass when single-winning is won In this case, because the addition is successful internally, even if it does not pass the gate apparently, it will not be "failed to add", but the ball sorting device The visual distribution operation by the unit 280 is used to appeal “addition by relief” on the stage.

[F60] Additional notification (relief)
“Addition by relief” was apparently “non-gate passage”, but “addition notification” was given in the production, giving the player a feeling as if the addition occurred due to “relief measures” ing.

[F30] Variable winning device operation (big hit)
In either case, the variable winning device 30 performs a two-round opening operation by winning a special symbol (internal lottery). Although not shown, the remaining limiter count is cleared to 0 after the special symbol is stopped and displayed on the control process of the main control CPU 72 as described above (limiter reset).

[F31] Shorter time [F19] If it falls under “single (normal) symbol 1” from the probability change, the probability variation function activation flag will be cleared, but the time reduction function activation count will be set to 100, so variable prizes The game flow after the opening operation of the device 30 shifts to a short time (low probability short time) (continuous number resetting opportunity generating means).

[F20] Normal symbol non-winning Here again, during [F31] time shortening, the winning probability of normal symbol (working lottery) is set to about one-tenth (98/99), so probabilistic non-winning There is little to be. In theory, however, there is a possibility of non-winning, so if it is not won, the game in [F31] time is continued.

[F32] per normal symbol during time reduction [F31] Even during the time reduction, if the game ball passes through the right start gate 21 in the “right-handed” flow as it is, it is won with almost one normal symbol change. Since the variation time is shortened (0.6 seconds) as described above, the game flow proceeds to the next stage within a very short time.

[F33] Variable start winning device operation The normal start (operating lottery) winning operation activates the variable start winning device 28 so that a winning can be generated at the start winning port 28a.

[F34] No win Similarly, even if no winning is made to the start winning opening 28a during the operation of the variable start winning device 28 for some reason (out of ball, clogged ball, etc.), the game flow is [ F31] Since the time is continued, there is no extreme penalty for the player.

[F35] Start opening prize [F31] If the winning to the start winning opening 28a occurs during the operation of the variable start winning apparatus 28 due to the "right-handed" flow in the short time, the game flow proceeds to the next stage.

[F36] Special Symbol Variation Similarly, a special symbol (internal lottery) is performed in response to the occurrence of a winning at the start winning opening 28a. As a result, the special symbol display device 34 displays the variation of the special symbol. Further, when the fluctuation time has elapsed, the special symbol is stopped and displayed according to the result of the internal lottery.

  Similarly, a game ball enters the ball sorter unit 280 during [F31] time shortening, but the “additional accessory game” is not executed. That is, even if the variable start winning device 28 is opened during [F31] time shortening, the LED illumination is turned off, and the operation inside the ball sorter unit 280 is visually inconspicuous.

[F37] Short-time non-winning If the internal lottery during the short-time is not won, the special symbol will be stopped in a non-winning manner, but the game flow will continue in [F31] There is no extreme penalty for the person. Further, it can be said that it is advantageous for the player because the [F24] start opening prize (opportunity for winning ball) can be obtained once with the operation of the variable start winning device 28. And since the number of times the time shortening function is activated is set to 100 times, even if one non-winning event occurs, there still remains a sufficient number of time reductions (99 times).

[F61] Short and medium short hits Also, if the internal lottery during the short time is a small hit, the special symbol is stopped and displayed in a small hit state, and [F30] variable winning device operation (small hit operation) proceeds. The game flow continues for [F31], so there is no extreme penalty for the player. Further, since the [F33] start opening prize (opportunity ball opportunity) for one time is obtained together with the operation of the variable prize winning device 30, it is rather advantageous for the player. And since the number of times of the time shortening function is set to 100 times, even if one small hit occurs, the number of time reductions (99 times) still remains.

[F38] Probability change symbol 1 and 2 winning in short time And since the probability change ratio is 97% of the whole as described above, the probability change symbol is also selected with high frequency at the time of winning. [F31] When the winning symbol corresponds to either “probability variation symbol 1” or “probability variation symbol 2” from the time shortening, 10,000 times are added as the number of times of the time reduction function operation as described above.

[F39] Number of remaining limiters = 17
In this case, since [F31] the “low probability state” during the time reduction corresponds to the first probability variation winning, the “limiter count” is internally reset here (the limiter remaining) Number = 17). Furthermore, in this case, since it is a chance variation winning game, the following game flow will proceed.

[F18] Variable winning device operation (big hit)
By winning the special symbol (internal lottery), the variable winning device 30 performs a two-round opening operation. [F31] The probability variation function activation flag is set and the time shortening function activation count is set to 10000 times for any of the cases where “probability variation symbol 1” or “probability variation symbol 2” falls under time reduction. Therefore, the game flow after the opening operation of the variable winning device 30 is actually changed (high probability time short: F19) is resumed (re-entry, return).

[Addition of a limiter by single winning during a certain change]
In the above game flow, even if the “limiter count” is subtracted to some extent while repeating the loop of [F19] probability change, if “one-shot (normal) symbol 1” is won in the middle, This means that the “limiter count” is reset, and the “limiter count” is reset to the maximum value again by winning “probability variation 1” or “probability variation 2” (continuous count resetting generation means).

  As a result, even if [F19] “Limiter count” during probability change is reaching the remaining 0, if “One-shot (normal) symbol 1” is won (selection ratio 3%) before that, As a result, the “limiter count” is reset, so that [F19] the game characteristic that the loop count during the probability change can be extended is realized.

  In addition, in the present embodiment, even when an internal addition of “single (normal) symbol 1” is won, the “additional accessory game” using the ball sorter unit 280 is visually conscious. Thus, a game hill that can appeal to players is generated.

  The above is the game flow that can occur before [F19] “Limiter count” reaches 0 remaining during [F19] probability change. On the other hand, as a result of repeating the above loop during [F19] probability change, when the remaining "limiter count" reaches zero, the following game flow is performed.

[Game flow when reaching the limiter]
FIG. 29 is a game flow diagram showing a game flow when the “limiter count” reaches the remaining zero. For example, in the case where [F19] variable start winning device is activated and [F24] start opening winning is generated per [F21] normal symbol in a state where [F19] “limiter count” reaches 0 remaining during [F19] probability change. Suppose.

[F41] Special Symbol Variation Similarly, a special symbol (internal lottery) is performed in response to the occurrence of a winning at the start winning opening 28a. As a result, the special symbol display device 34 displays the variation of the special symbol. Further, when the fluctuation time has elapsed, the special symbol is stopped and displayed according to the result of the internal lottery.

[F43] One-shot symbol 1 winning [F19] If the winning symbol is “single (normal) symbol 1” with the remaining “limiter count” reaching 0, the game flow is as follows. In this case, since it is not a probability variable symbol, the remaining number of “limiter times” is not particularly related, and 100 times is added as the number of times the time shortening function is activated as it is.

[F44] Variable winning device operation (limiter reset)
The variable winning device 30 performs a two-round opening operation by winning a special symbol (internal lottery). At this time, the remaining “limiter count” has reached 0, but the remaining limiter is cleared to 0 after the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the control process of the main control CPU 72 as described above.

[Chance zone continuation]
In this case, the game flow returns to [F31] time shortening, and from there, again in the “time shortened state”, [F32] per normal symbol, [F33] variable start winning device operation, [F35] start opening winning, [F36] special A game flow such as symbol variation proceeds. Then, [F38] Probability change symbol 1 and 2 wins, [F39] Limiter remaining number = 17, “limiter count” is reset, and the game flow shifts again to [F19] Probability change.

[F45] Probability symbol 1 winning → Forced one shot 1
[F19] The game flow is as follows when the winning symbol corresponds to “probability symbol 1” with the remaining “limiter count” during probability variation reaching zero. In this case, since the “limiter count” has already reached 0, the probability variation symbol cannot be selected in the control process of the main control CPU 72, and “single symbol 1” is forcibly set as described above. Will be selected. In this case, the probability variation function activation flag is cleared, but 100 times is added as the number of times the time shortening function is activated, so the “time shortening state” continues.

[F44] Variable winning device operation (limiter reset)
The variable winning device 30 performs a two-round opening operation by winning a special symbol (internal lottery). Similarly, the remaining “limiter count” has reached 0 at this time, but the remaining limiter count is cleared to 0 after the special symbol is stopped.

[Chance zone continuation]
In this case as well, the game flow returns to [F31] time reduction, and from there, again in the “time reduction state”, [F32] per normal symbol, [F33] variable start winning device operation, [F35] start opening winning), [F36] A game flow such as special symbol variation proceeds. Then, [F38] Probability change symbol 1 and 2 wins, [F39] Limiter remaining number = 17, “limiter count” is reset, and the game flow shifts again to [F19] Probability change.

[F46] Probability symbol 2 winning → Forced one shot 2
On the other hand, if the winning symbol is “probability variation 2” in the state where [F19] “limiter count” during probability variation has reached 0, the game flow is as follows. Also in this case, since the “limiter count” has already reached 0, it is not possible to select the probability variation symbol on the control process of the main control CPU 72. Then, “probability variation 2” is forcibly changed to “single symbol 2” as described above. In this case, since the probability variation function operation flag is cleared and 0 (= no time reduction) is set as the time shortening function operation count, the time shortening function operation flag is also cleared.

[F47] Variable Winning Device Operation The variable winning device 30 performs a two-round opening operation by winning a special symbol (internal lottery). Similarly, the remaining “limiter count” has reached 0 at this time, but the remaining limiter count is cleared to 0 after the special symbol is stopped.

[End of Chance Zone]
In this case, the game flow returns to [F1] normal game (normal game), and becomes a “non-time shortened state” and a “low probability state”.

[Other than winning when the limiter is reached]
The above is a flow in the case of winning by the internal lottery when reaching the limiter, but in the case of other than winning (non-winning or small hit), the above-described game play by the “additional bonus game” is exhibited.

[F41] Special symbol variation (when reaching the limiter) → [F42] Not winning If the player is not selected in the internal lottery when the limiter is reached, the [F24] start opening prize will not affect the “limiter count”. You can get a chance to win a prize ball.

[F41] Special symbol fluctuation (when the limiter is reached) → [F66] small hit Also, if the small lottery is made in the internal lottery when the limiter is reached, the [F24] start for one time without affecting the “limiter count” You can get a chance to win a prize ball.

[Additional bonus game when reaching the limiter]
In the present embodiment, the “additional accessory game” using the ball sorter unit 280 is also performed at the time of [F42] non-winning and [F66] small hit when the limiter is reached.

[F65] Gate non-passing (when not winning)
[F42] is not won in the internal lottery at the time of reaching the limiter, and when the game ball that has entered first is distributed to the collection hole 282a of the rotating body 282, the result of the “additional accessory game” does not pass through the gate. In this case, the game flow continues to reach the limiter [F19] during certainty change. However, it can be said that it is advantageous for the player because the [F24] start opening prize (opportunity for winning ball) can be obtained regardless of the “number of limiters”.

[F68] Gate non-passage (at the time of small hit)
When the internal lottery at the time of reaching the limiter is [F66] small hit, and the game ball that has entered first is distributed to the collection hole 282a of the rotating body 282, the result of the “additional accessory game” does not pass through the gate. However, in this case, the game flow continues through [F69] variable winning device operation (small hitting operation) and [F19] during probability change when the limiter is reached. In addition, regardless of the “limiter count”, one [F24] start opening prize (opportunity ball opportunity) is obtained, and [F69] a variable prize device operation (small hitting action) opportunity is obtained. Is advantageous.

  The above is the game flow in the case of “non-passing gate” other than non-winning when reaching the limiter, but these are the patterns of “failure (no extra)” as a result of the “additional bonus game” The situation of “remaining limiter = 0” does not change. On the other hand, the pattern of “success (with extra)” as a result of the “additional bonus game” is as follows.

[F51], [F55] Gate passing When the limiter reaches the internal lottery, [F42] is not won and the first game ball that enters the variable start winning device 28 is distributed to the pocket 282b of the rotating body 282, or When the game ball that first entered the variable start winning device 28 is distributed to the pocket 282b of the rotating body 282 when the internal lottery [F66] is a small hit, the result of the “upward bonus game” at the time of reaching the limiter is The gate passes (passes through the probability state determination area switch 83). In these cases, the game flow is as follows.

[F63], [F64] Additional notification [F62], [F67] In response to the result of the passage of the gate, an “addition notification” is performed on the performance. Similarly, when the limiter arrives, the addition (resetting of the number of limiters) does not occur immediately after passing through the probability state determination area switch 83. However, since the addition is determined in terms of control, the “addition notification” "Direction" is to be performed. Further, an example of the effect of adding notification will be described later.

[F44] Variable winning device operation (small hit operation / limiter reset) → [F31] Short and medium time When “small hit” and “gate pass” occur in the internal lottery when the limiter is reached, forced single-winning has occurred Even if not, the probability variation function activation flag is cleared by the above-described fall processing (FIG. 24). Further, the variable winning device 30 is operated as a result of “small hit”.

[F63] Addition notification → [F31] Time is short Also, if “not win” and “pass through gate” occur in the internal lottery when the limiter arrives, the probability variation function activation flag is cleared in the same fall processing (FIG. 24) .

[Chance zone continuation]
In any case, the game flow returns to [F31] time reduction (continuous count resetting trigger generation means), and from there, in the “time reduction state” [F32] per normal symbol, [F33] variable start winning device operation , [F35] start opening prize), and [F36] special symbol variation proceed. Then, [F38] Probability change symbol 1 and 2 wins, [F39] Limiter remaining number = 17, “limiter count” is reset, and the game flow shifts again to [F19] Probability change.

[Summary of game flow]
As described above, in the present embodiment, when the game flow is once changed during [F19] probability change, the following features are clarified.
30 to 32 are conceptual diagrams showing the classification of game flow patterns in the present embodiment. In the following, description will be given in order.

(1) Basic pattern (no extra charge)
In FIG. 30, (A): When the game flow is once changed to [F19] probability change through winning of “probability variation symbol 1” or “probability variation symbol 2”, basically a very high rate (selection ratio 97%) In this case, the probable winning will occur continuously. Therefore, assuming that the “limiter count” before the first (first) chance of winning the change is 18 for convenience (up to 18 consecutive times including the first), the remaining 17 is set at the time of the first win. The “limiter count” is subtracted 1 from 17 by the second consecutive chance of winning the variation and becomes 16 times, and further, 1 is subtracted from 16 by the third consecutive chance of winning the variation and becomes 15.

  After this, the “Limiter Count” is subtracted every time the chance variation wins continuously, and when the 18th consecutive chance variation win is counted, the “Limiter Count” is subtracted from the remaining one. Reach 0 times. In this case, since the winning with the single symbol is compulsory at the next winning, the probability variation winning is forcibly ended up to 18 consecutive times. The basic pattern excludes “additional bonus game” other than winning.

(2) Successive bonus game success pattern In FIG. 30 (B): In the basic pattern of (1) above, before the “limiter count” reaches the remaining 0, for example, through the first n consecutive chances of winning the change. Suppose that the “limiter count” remains (18−n) times and becomes “not-winning” or “small hit”, and there is “success in extra game (passing through gate)”. In this case, the “low probability state” is reached from the next variation of the special symbol, but the “time reduction state” continues.

  In FIG. 30 (C): That is, in order to shift to [F31] time in the game flow, after winning the normal symbol (operating lottery) winning the next special symbol (internal lottery) (selection rate 97%) Thus, the “limiter count” is reset. The probability variation win in this case is not a continuous probability variation win, but corresponds to the first time after transitioning to the “low probability state”. Therefore, 18 consecutive times including the first time (the remaining “limiter count” is (17 times) is likely to win a chance change. In this case, the “number of limiters” is obtained by adding the remaining (18-n) times so far (ie, n times) from the newly generated 18 times this time.

  This addition can be repeated, and even if the “Limiter Count” is reset, it will be “Non-Win” or “Small Hit” again before the “Limiter Count” reaches 0 after the reset. Therefore, when the “additional accessory game success (passing through the gate)” occurs, the next special symbol changes to a “low probability state” and a “time reduction state”.

  In FIG. 30, (D): Then, in the same way in the game flow, during [F31] time shortening, after passing the normal symbol (actuation lottery) winning, the next special symbol (internal lottery) wins the positive change (selection ratio 97) %), The “limiter count” is reset there. Similarly, since the probability variation winning in this case corresponds to the first time from the “low probability state”, the possibility of the probability variation winning of 18 consecutive times including the first time (the remaining “limiter count” is 17 times) is possible. Is a new occurrence.

  As described above, the pachinko machine 1 according to the present embodiment [F19] becomes “non-winning” or “small hit” before reaching the limiter during the probable change, and when the “additional accessory game success” occurs there, Sometimes the “limiter count” is reset (the limiter is reset) and [F19] is restarted during the probabilistic change. As a result, the game performance as if the “limiter count” is added one after another is realized. be able to. By visually realizing such game characteristics as a game ball sorting operation by the ball sorter unit 280, it appeals to the player's vision and makes it easy to understand the hills of the game (where to put power). doing.

  In addition, “Success in the added bonus game” does not simply increase the “number of limiters” in the “high probability state”, but always includes a transition (fall) to the “low probability state”. Therefore, there is no extreme increase in the gambling characteristics of the game. Further, the number of times of addition is “18 times—the current remaining number of times”, and when the addition occurs, the remaining number of times until then is discarded.

The above is the “additional bonus game” pattern, but the “internal limiter addition” pattern is as follows.
The flow shown in (A) of FIG. 31 is the same as the basic pattern of (1) above, and redundant description is omitted here.

(3) Internal limiter addition pattern In FIG. 31 (B): In the basic pattern of (1) above, before the “limiter count” reaches the remaining 0, for example, through the first n consecutive positive variation winnings Consider the case where the “limiter count” remains (18−n) times and corresponds to “single (normal) symbol 1” (selection ratio 3%). In this case, 100 times are added as the number of times the time shortening function is activated. Further, in this case, although it is actually “internal limiter addition”, an effect that makes it seem as if “addition by an accessory game” using the ball sorter unit 280 appears.

  In FIG. 31, (C): Then, after the end of the major role, it shifts to the above [F31] time shortening, so after the normal symbol (operating lottery) winning, the next special symbol (internal lottery) winning (selection ratio 97%) ), The “limiter count” is reset there. The probability variation winning in this case corresponds to the first time after the single winning, and therefore, the possibility of the probability variation winning is newly generated 18 times including the first time (the remaining “limiter count” is 17 times). In this case, the “number of limiters” is obtained by adding the remaining (18-n) times so far (ie, n times) from the newly generated 18 times this time.

  This addition can be repeated, and even if the “limiter count” is reset, it will again fall under “single (normal) symbol 1” before the “limiter count” reaches 0 after the reset. Then, 100 times is added as the number of times the time reduction function is activated.

  In FIG. 31, (D): Then, after the end of the major role, it will move to the above [F31] time, so the regular symbol (working lottery) will be won and the next special symbol (internal lottery) will be selected. In this case, the “limiter count” is reset. Similarly, since the chance variation win in this case corresponds to the first time after the single win, there is a new possibility of the probability change winning of 18 consecutive times including the first time (the remaining “limiter count” is 17 times). It has occurred.

  As described above, in the pachinko machine 1 according to the present embodiment, [F19] If the single winning is made before reaching the limiter during the probability change, the “limiter count” is reset (the limiter is reset) at the time of the next probability change winning [F19] the probability change. As a result of restarting the inside, it is possible to realize a game characteristic as if the “limiter count” is added one after another. However, the “limiter count” is not increased in game control, and the single symbol winning is always sandwiched between them, so that the gambling of the game is not extremely enhanced. Further, the number of times of addition is “18 times—the current remaining number of times”, and when the addition occurs, the remaining number of times until then is discarded.

(4) Continuation pattern after reaching the limiter (addition pattern after reaching the limiter)
(E) in FIG. 32: On the other hand, when the upper limit before reaching the limiter does not occur and the “limiter count” reaches 0 in accordance with the basic pattern of (1) above, it corresponds to “probability variation 1”. However, it is forcibly changed to “one-shot symbol 1”.

  In FIG. 32 (F): However, since the forced “single symbol 1” in this case is added with 100 times as the number of times the time shortening function is activated, it shifts to the above [F31] time reduction after the end of the major role. . In this case as well, it is actually “internal limiter addition by one-shot symbol 1 winning”, but it seems that an “addition by an object game” using the ball sorter unit 280 apparently appears. The production to be performed is performed. Then, after winning the normal symbol (operational lottery), when the next special symbol (internal lottery) is selected, the “limiter count” is set again. The probability variation winning in this case corresponds to the first time after the probability variation ends, so the possibility of the probability variation winning is added 18 times consecutively including the first time (the remaining “limiter count” is 17 times). .

  In this case, as the game flow, [F19] during the probability change is temporarily ended by reaching the limiter, but if the winning symbol at the time of reaching the limiter is forced to "one-shot symbol 1", [F31] the next probability variation winning from the short time Sometimes “limiter count” is newly set and [F19] is being changed. In addition, if it happens to be “single (normal) symbol 1” after reaching the limiter, 100 times is added as the number of times the time shortening function is activated. To do. Therefore, the rate of shifting to the [F31] time reduction after reaching the limiter is 35%, which combines the selection ratios of “single (normal) symbol 1” and “probability variable symbol 1”.

  In any case, by winning the “single pattern with short time” after reaching the limiter, it is possible to realize a game characteristic as if the “number of limiters” seemed to be added (in this case, +18 times). Here too, the “variable number of limiters” is not increased in game control, but forced single symbol winning (or pure single symbol winning) due to reaching the limiter in the meantime is generated. There is no increase in gambling.

  In this example, “succeeding extra bonus game” is used as an example before the remaining “limiter count” reaches 0. However, when the limiter is reached, it is not won or a small hit, and there is “successful extra bonus game”. A similar pattern is also obtained when this occurs. In this case, the number of times of addition is the maximum (for example, 18 times). However, the variable winning device 30 is not operated in the “successful bonus game” from non-winning, unlike in the case of “single winning with short time”.

(5) End pattern (G) in FIG. 32: On the other hand, if it corresponds to “probability variation 2” after reaching the limiter, this time is forcibly changed to “single variation 2”. In this case, since the number of times of the time shortening function is not added to the “single symbol 2” that is forcibly changed (0 times = no time reduction), after the completion of the main role, [F1] shifts to the normal game, [ F19] The game under certainty ends.

  The above is an outline of the prominent patterns (1) to (5) of the game flow by the pachinko machine 1 according to the present embodiment. In particular, the above (2) additional game success pattern and (3) internal limiter Regarding the added pattern and the continuation pattern after reaching the limiter in (4), the player's profit increases due to the occurrence of each game flow.

  Further, in the present embodiment, since the patterns (2), (3), and (4) are generated through a visually recognizable “additional accessory game”, the “game in the pocket 282b of the rotating body 282”. It is possible to make it easier for the player to recognize that the game is “added when a ball enters”.

  In this regard, the pattern (3) in particular is actually performed only on the control processing by the main control CPU 72. If there is no apparent “additional accessory game”, the flow is directly Although it is difficult for the player to understand the game, in this embodiment, the player can visually recognize it as an “additional game” to achieve a game that makes it easy for the player to understand where to put power. can do.

  Of course, with regard to the internal addition pattern in (3) above, if the display mode of the special symbol display device 34 is carefully observed, the player must confirm what winning symbol the game corresponds to during the game. From there, it is possible to recognize that "a limiter has been added due to a single win." However, the special symbol display device 34 itself is a 7-segment LED, and the display mode of any winning symbol is somewhat symbolic (for example, “巳”, “self”, “L”, “¬”, “Γ”). Therefore, it is difficult to instantaneously determine the type of winning symbol from such a display mode.

  The “limiter count” is an internal control variable, and is not particularly displayed on the game state display device 38. The player always keeps an eye on the game ball distribution operation by the ball distribution device unit 280. Not necessarily. For this reason, control information such as the occurrence of an additional “limiter count” during the game, the “limiter count” has reached the remaining zero, or that the short-term winning symbol has been won after reaching the limiter It is difficult for people to know directly.

  Therefore, in the present embodiment, an effect technique is used to easily convey to the player that the game flow is proceeding along the patterns (1) to (5). Hereinafter, the production technique employed in the present embodiment will be described with some examples. Note that these are merely examples, and there is no particular limitation on the contents of the effect design and the effect image.

[Normal design off-line production]
First, FIG. 33 is a continuous diagram showing an example of an effect executed when [F2] normal symbol is not won. This effect example corresponds to normal symbol variation display and stop display, and is specifically an example of a variation display effect and a result display effect based on the effect symbol. Of these, the variable display effect corresponds to a series of effects that are performed during the period from when the normal symbol starts variable display to when it is stopped and displayed (including the fixed stop). The result display effect is an effect that represents that the normal symbol is stopped and displayed and the result of the operation lottery at that time is a combination of the effect symbols. As described above, since the normal symbol display device 33 itself is a lighting / flashing display using two LEDs, it does not have an appealing appearance. Therefore, the pachinko machine 1 basically performs a variable display effect and a result display effect using the effect symbols. In addition, since the normal symbol is only displayed in a simple manner (for example, one upper lamp is lit), the player can determine whether or not the winning symbol is selected unless the result is a result display by the effect symbol. Hard to notice. On the contrary, this means that the player basically has a tendency to judge the result of the internal lottery from the contents of the production, and it can be said that the production plays an important role in the game flow.

  The effect symbols include, for example, a left effect symbol, a middle effect symbol, and a right effect symbol, which are displayed side by side on the left, middle, and right on the screen of the liquid crystal display 42. Of these, the medium effect design is smaller in size than the other left and right effect designs. In addition, the left and right effect designs are designed with a picture card with some image (for example, a character not shown), for example, with the Chinese numerals “1” to “9”. Is a design in which some images are added together with the arithmetic numbers “1” to “9”. These left effect symbol, middle effect symbol, and right effect symbol potentially constitute a symbol sequence in which, for example, Chinese numerals are arranged in descending order of “9” to “1”. Such a symbol sequence is variably displayed so as to flow (scroll) in the vertical direction in the left region, middle region, and right region on the screen.

[Variable display production start]
In FIG. 33 (A): In synchronization with the start of the change of the normal symbol, the change display effect is started by scrolling the three effect symbols on the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42. That is, in synchronization with the start of fluctuation of the normal symbol, the variable display effect is started such that the left effect symbol, the middle effect symbol, and the right effect symbol scroll in the vertical direction on the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42. In the figure, the change display of the effect symbol is simply indicated by a downward arrow. Although not shown here, for example, an image (background image of the seaside) that is the background of the effect design is displayed in the display screen at this time. In addition, after this, for example, a notice effect may be performed by displaying an image of a character, an item, or the like on the display screen.

[Reach condition occurs]
(B) in FIG. 33: For example, when a certain amount of time has elapsed, the left effect symbol first stops changing. In this example, the effect design representing the Chinese numeral “5” is stopped at the middle position of the screen. Further, the right effect symbol stops changing, and at this time, the effect symbol representing the Chinese numeral “5” is also stopped at the middle position of the screen, so that the reach state occurs. At this time, the medium performance symbol is changing. In this example, no effect symbols other than the effect symbols stopped on the screen are displayed.

  In general, when all three of the same type of effect symbols are stopped on the effect, it is “winning”, and here, there is only one of the remaining medium effect symbols until “winning” is confirmed. Although not particularly illustrated, it may be an aspect in which character information such as “reach!” Is displayed on the display screen, and a sound is output together.

[Reach production]
In FIG. 33 (C): After the reach state occurs, the process until the last effect symbol (medium effect symbol) is stopped and displayed is expressed with various contents. In this example, a process in which the numbers “1” to “6” move while flying around the display screen while drawing a circle, and the numbers are sequentially dropped from “1” is expressed. Yes. Such an effect is intended to remind the player of the notion that “if the last arithmetical number of“ 5 ”remains”, the player will continue to expect. Although not shown in the figure, a mode in which a notice effect after the occurrence of reach is performed by displaying an image of a character or the like on the display screen in this process may be used.

[Result display effect]
In FIG. 33 (D): The last medium effect symbol stops substantially synchronously with the stop display of the normal symbol (not necessarily at the same time). In the example shown in the figure, the arithmetic numeral “5” is deleted on the screen, and the medium effect symbol is the arithmetic numeral “6”. For this reason, the left, middle, and right effect symbols are stopped and displayed in a mode of “out” (non-winning) of “five”-“6”-“five”.

[Normal design per design]
Next, FIG. 34 is a continuous diagram showing an example of effects executed at the time of [F3] normal symbol hitting. In FIG. 33, an example of an effect that is lost after a normal reach effect has been described. In FIG. 34, an example of an effect that is won (winning) after a super reach effect is described.

[Variable display effects]
In FIG. 34 (A): Similarly, in the same manner, the lines of the left effect symbol, the middle effect symbol, and the right effect symbol are arranged in the vertical direction (for example, upward) on the screen of the liquid crystal display 42 substantially in synchronization with the start of fluctuation of the normal symbol. The scrolling display effect is started as if scrolling from the bottom to the bottom.

[Preliminary production before reach (first stage)]
FIG. 34B: Next, in a relatively early stage of the variable display effect, the first stage pre-reach notice effect using the character image (picture card) is performed. This pre-reach pre-announcement effect is a pre-announcement effect in which the change of the mode progresses in stages from one stage to a plurality of stages (for example, 2 to 5 stages) according to a predetermined order. The pattern image used in the pre-reach notice effect is located in front of the effect pattern that is displayed on the screen in a variable manner, for example, so as to appear suddenly from the left edge of the screen (other appearance modes) May be.) Note that the “pre-reach notice” means that a reach or a chance of winning is announced before any effect symbol is stopped and displayed. By executing such a “pre-reach announcement effect”, an effect can be obtained in which the player has a sense of expectation that “the possibility of winning may increase to reach”.

[Advance notice before the reach occurs (second stage)]
In FIG. 34 (C): After the first stage of the pre-reach notice effect is executed, the change of the pre-reach notice effect proceeds to the second stage. Here, an effect using a character pattern image different from the previous one is performed as the notice effect before the occurrence of reach in the second stage. Specifically, another pattern image additionally appears from the right end of the screen, and is displayed so as to overlap the front of the previously displayed pattern image. The picture image displayed at this time is larger in size than the picture image displayed previously. And the effect by the sound output that the character expressed by the picture image emits a dialogue (for example, “I will reach” etc.) is also performed.

  Such a pre-reach notice announcement effect (second stage) using the second pattern image is one step further from the pre-reach notice effect (first stage) performed in FIG. 34 (B). It is a development type. In general, it may be expressed as “step-up notice” or the like, referring to the “pre-reach notice notice effect” that develops in this way. Here, an example is given in which the second-stage pattern image appears in the pre-reach notice effect, but the third-stage, fourth-stage, and fifth-stage pattern images appear and appear one after another. There may be. Further, for example, the size may be enlarged each time the third, fourth, and fifth-stage pattern images appear and appear one after another. Even at this stage, the variation display of the effect symbols is continued. In any case, it is possible to suggest to the player that there is a high possibility (expectation) to be hit by this change by making the change in the aspect of the advance notice effect before the occurrence of reach reach to more stages. (For example, the maximum expectation is suggested when progressing to the fifth stage).

[Stop of left design]
In FIG. 34 (D): The middle stage of the variable display effect is approached, and the variable display of the left effect symbol is eventually stopped. At this point, the effect symbol representing the Chinese numeral “seven” is stopped at the left position of the screen.

[Occurrence of reach condition]
In FIG. 34 (E): Next to the left effect symbol, for example, the change display of the right effect symbol is stopped. At this point, since the production symbol representing the Chinese numeral “seven” is stopped at the right position of the screen, the Chinese numeral “seven”-“in a horizontal line (on one line) on the screen. Reach state of “Fluctuating”-“Seven” has occurred. On the screen, an image that emphasizes one line that is in a reach state is also displayed. In addition, an effect of outputting a voice such as “Reach!” Is performed.

  After the reach state occurs, the super reach effect is executed. In the super reach production, only the production symbols corresponding to the tempered numbers (here, the Chinese numeral “seven”) are displayed on the screen, and the others are not displayed. At this time, the effect design may be displayed in a reduced state at each corner of the screen.

[Preliminary notice after reach occurs (first time)]
In FIG. 34, (F): After a reach state has occurred, for example, an image representing a “heart” figure forms a group and passes through the screen diagonally. . In this case, the image of the “heart group” is suddenly displayed on the screen so that the visual appeal to the player can be enhanced. By executing such a notice effect after the visually lively reach occurs, the player can have an even greater expectation.

[Progress of reach production]
In FIG. 34 (G): Following the announcement effect after the first reach, for example, images representing arithmetic numbers “1” to “8” are displayed in a three-dimensional sequence on the screen, There is an effect in which numerical images are erased from the screen in the order of “1”, “2”, “3”,. Such an effect is also performed for the purpose of suggesting (impliciting) or reminding the player that the arithmetic number “7” remains “unerased” until the end. Also, when the arithmetic number “6” is deleted and the arithmetic number “7” remains in front of the screen, it is “hit”, but when the arithmetic number “7” is deleted, it is “out of”. It means that there is. In this case, for example, “8” as the arithmetic number is displayed on the screen after the arithmetic number “7” is deleted. Therefore, during this time, the numbers “1”, “2”, “3”,... Are sequentially erased, and as the order of the numbers “5” approaches, Tension and expectation will also increase. After this, for example, if up to the arithmetic number “5” is erased on the screen, then the next time the Chinese numeral “6” is erased, the possibility of “winning” will increase, so there is a game there. A person's tension increases at a stretch.

[Preliminary notice after the occurrence of reach (second time)]
In FIG. 34 (H): When the reach production is approaching the final stage, the image of the character is suddenly displayed on the screen as if it was split into a close-up, and the content that the character emits some dialogue (or silently) (The content may be that of smiling). At this point, for example, the content of the reach production is “If the arithmetical number“ 6 ”is deleted, then“ seven ”-“ 7 ”-“ seven ”will increase the chance of a normal symbol” ” is there. Therefore, by causing a character image to appear large at this timing, it is possible to obtain an effect of giving the player a sense of expectation that “may be a hit”.

[Result display effect]
In FIG. 34 (I): The last medium effect symbol stops substantially in synchronization with the stop display of the normal symbol. In this example, since it corresponds to “winning” internally, the effect design representing the arithmetical number “7” is stopped and displayed at the center of the screen, so that the effect design is “seven”-“ 7 ”-“ Seven ”is stopped and displayed.

  In FIG. 34 (J): Then, for example, the confirmed stop display is performed for the result display effect as the effect symbol substantially in synchronization with the fixed stop display of the normal symbol. The effect design fixed stop display is performed, for example, in a state where the left, middle, and right effect symbols are restored to their initial sizes. By performing such a fixed stop display, it is possible to teach the player that “per normal symbol” has been fixed in the production. However, in the present embodiment, since the hit of the normal symbol (operation lottery) does not guarantee the above [F19] high probability or [F31] time shortage, it is the content that appeals “winning” too much. Not. In other words, the “three-piece” image is relaxed to some extent by setting the display pattern of the medium effect symbol to a numerical value different from the left effect symbol and the medium effect symbol.

  Here, although there are three effect symbols, the effect symbols may be composed of two effects, a left effect symbol and a right effect symbol. In this case, it is possible to perform up to “occurrence of reach state” using two effect symbols, and to perform an effect “after the occurrence of reach” in a manner like “story reach effect”. In "story reach production", if a story on a production that progresses on the screen succeeds (for example, wins in some competition, etc.), it is called "ordinary production per symbol" and conversely, the story fails (for example, If it is defeated in some competition, etc.), it can be used as a “normal symbol non-winning effect”.

[Direction when variable start winning device is activated]
Next, FIG. 35 is a diagram showing an example of effects executed when the [F4] variable start winning device is operated.

  35 (A): In this example, for example, a female character appears on the screen of the liquid crystal display 42, and a right-handed suggestion effect that produces a speech such as “Right-handed!” Is performed. In addition, a speech balloon image in which words are written is displayed, and an arrow indicating the right direction of the board surface is displayed therein (launch position designation effect). By executing such an effect, it is possible to prompt the player to “right-hand” and to be aware that the operation of the variable start winning device 28 is started. At this time, sound may be generated from the speakers 54, 55, and 56 in accordance with the display of the dialogue as character information on the display screen.

  In FIG. 35 (B): After the right-handed suggestion effect, an effect is produced in which the female character emits a dialogue such as “If you win the Janken Battle, enter the chance zone !!”. As a result, the player can be instructed that the mode to be transferred is different depending on the victory or defeat of the “Janken Battle” that will be performed later, and when it wins, it will shift to an advantageous mode such as “Chance Zone”. This can be taught to the player.

  FIG. 35 (C): After that, when a game ball enters the active variable start winning device 28 and the change of the special symbol is started, characters such as “Janken Battle Start!” Are displayed on the screen. An effect is displayed in which the displayed image is displayed. Although not shown here, in the display screen, the effect symbol (fourth symbol) corresponding to the normal symbol is stopped and displayed in a winning manner.

[Direction when special symbol changes]
FIG. 36 and FIG. 37 are continuous diagrams showing examples of effects executed when the above [F7] special symbol changes (within the fluctuation time). In this example, the game is won with a probability of 1/2 from the special symbol change of [F7], and proceeds to either the probability variation symbol 1, 2 winner of [F16] or the single (normal) symbol 1 winner of [F11]. A flow is assumed.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 36 (D), at the beginning of this production, images of female characters (left side) and enemy characters (right side) are displayed side by side, A state where sparks are scattered in the middle is expressed stunningly by moving images. Further, by appropriately displaying characters such as “game” on the display screen, it is possible to remind the player that “the game of two players will finally begin”. Further, at this time, the dialogue of each character (for example, “absolutely win!”, “Please come!”, Etc.) may be output as sound. In this case, for example, the degree of expectation can be suggested by the content of the dialogue (the more the content of the dialogue is more positive, the higher the degree of expectation). Although not shown here, effect symbols (symbols such as □ 柄-) corresponding to the special symbols are variably displayed on the display screen.

  In FIG. 36 (E): In the middle of the production, the two characters disappear from the display screen and the character information “Janken” is displayed large. As a result, it is possible to remind the player of the notion that “characters are fighting against each other”. In addition, it may be a mode in which a shout, sound effect, BGM, etc., such as “Janken de match” are output as sound.

  In FIG. 36 (F): In the middle stage of the production, two characters display a moving image with the contents “Janken's hand out”. In this example, a series of situations from the left side of the screen to the appearance of the friendly character's hand “Choki” and the appearance of the enemy character's hand “par” from the right side of the screen are represented. At this time, in accordance with the movement of each character, a mode in which a shout such as “Janken-pon!” Is output as sound.

  In FIG. 37 (G): At the end of the production, it is displayed that the ally character has won a brilliant victory as a result of the game. In this example, the ally-winning character is a close-up in the center of the display screen, and the appearance of showing the victory V-sign beside the face is expressed in a stunning manner. In addition, by displaying the characters “I won!” On the display screen, the player can be reminded of the idea of “winning Janken”.

  In FIG. 37 (H): After that, with the victory in the Janken Battle, a female character appears and an effect is displayed in which an image on which characters such as “Chance Zone Entry !!” is displayed is displayed. As a result, it can be taught that “the transition to probability change has been confirmed at this big hit”. In addition, a special symbol effect symbol (not shown) is stopped and displayed in a mode (an image of “Circle”).

  In FIG. 37 (I): When the special symbol stop display time elapses and the variable prize-winning device 30 shifts to the waiting state for opening, the female character produces a speech such as “Please make a right strike as it is!” An effect is displayed in which an arrow indicating the right direction of the board surface is displayed (fired position designation effect). Thereby, when the mode is the “chance zone”, it can be taught that the game is progressed by causing the game ball to flow on the right side of the board surface. Therefore, the game method in the “chance zone” is a game method in which the game ball is passed through the right start gate 21 or the game ball is entered (winning) in the variable start winning device 28 or the variable winning device 30. The player can be taught.

[Examples of special symbols when not selected]
FIG. 38 is a continuous diagram showing an example of an effect executed when the special symbol changes (within the change time) when not entering the chance zone. Specifically, in the case of proceeding from [F7] special symbol variation to [F8] non-winning, for example, the following effects are executed.

  In FIG. 38 (J): In this example, a series of states from the left of the screen until the friendly character's hand “Choki” appears and from the right of the screen the enemy character's hand “Goo” appears. It is expressed. Although not shown here, effect symbols (symbols) corresponding to the special symbols are variably displayed on the display screen.

  In FIG. 38 (K): It is displayed that, as a result of the match, unfortunately the ally character has been defeated. In this example, the defeated ally character becomes a close-up in the center of the display screen, and the state of disappointment is expressed in a stunning manner. In addition, by displaying the letters “Lose ...” in the display screen, the player is reminded of the idea that “Janken was defeated”. Can't be taught ". In addition, a special symbol effect symbol (not shown) is stopped and displayed in a mode (such as an image of “hyphen (−)”) corresponding to the deviation.

  FIG. 38 (L): After that, when the special symbol stop display time elapses and the state shifts to the special symbol fluctuation waiting state, the female character produces a speech such as “Please return to the left!” An effect is displayed in which an arrow indicating the left direction is displayed (fired position designation effect). Thereby, it can be taught that the mode returns to the “normal mode” and the game method returns to the content that causes the game ball to flow on the left side of the board surface.

[Direction during certain change]
Next, FIG. 39 is a diagram showing an example of effects executed when the game flow proceeds during the probability change of [F19] from the operation of [F18] variable winning device. Here, although “probability changing effect” is used, it may be an example of an effect executed when the game flow progresses to a chance zone that combines [F19] probability change and [F31] time.

  39A: For example, when the variable winning device [F18] is activated, for example, “right-handed” character information is displayed together with the background image on the screen of the liquid crystal display 42, and the game area 8a is displayed. An arrow symbol indicating the right side of the is displayed (launch position designation effect). In the illustrated example, a band-like area is provided at the upper part of the screen of the liquid crystal display 42, and right-handed character information and a right-pointing arrow symbol are displayed in the band-like area. In this example, the character information and the arrow symbol are displayed so as to flow in the right direction in the band-like region. Note that such a launch position designation effect is an effect that is continuously executed while the chance zone continues. Then, by executing such an effect, the player is encouraged to “right-hand” and can be made aware that a winning associated with the opening operation of the variable start winning device 28 and the variable winning device 30 occurs. . At this time, the background image represents, for example, a state in which a female character who has won in the previous production example is sitting relaxed.

  In addition, a limiter remaining number meter (reference symbol M) corresponding to the remaining “limiter count”, for example, is displayed at the lower position in the screen. The limiter remaining number meter M displays the “limiter count” at the present time. Is displayed in a bar graph-like manner. In this example, within the rectangular frame of the limiter remaining number meter M, the number of “limiter times” is 17 (maximum 18 times) with 17 vertical blocks except one at the right end lit. Represents. After this, when the game flow progresses during [F19] variable change from [F18] variable winning device operation, the limiter remaining number meter M is decremented by 1 and becomes 16 times.

  Although not shown in particular, during [F19] during probability change and during [F31] time reduction, effect symbols respectively corresponding to the normal symbol and the special symbol are displayed, for example, at the lower left corner position in the screen (the same applies hereinafter).

[Limiter remaining meter production]
39 (B): While the above [F19] probability change is repeated and the loop is repeated, “right-handed” character information is continuously displayed on the screen together with the background image, and the right portion in the game area 8a is also displayed. An arrow symbol is displayed. On the other hand, the limiter remaining number meter M is displayed in such a manner that the number of lighting blocks decreases one by one every time a probability variation winning occurs. With such a display mode of the limiter remaining number meter M, the player is reminded that the remaining number of limiters that are probably changing is gradually decreasing, and the internal information used in the actual game flow. ("Limiter count") can be transmitted (taught, suggested) to the player.

[Direction during the extra game]
Here, in the present embodiment as described above, [F19] When the winning combination or small hit is met during the probability change, the game ball distribution operation by the ball distribution device unit 280 is used when the special symbol changes. Things game "is performed. If you succeed in adding in this “additional bonus game”, the “limiter count” will be reset as described above, and it will be possible to obtain a game characteristic as if the “limiter count increase” has occurred. It has become. In particular, in the present embodiment, such an “additional accessory game” is realized by a visual action, so that during the “additional accessory game”, the player is made aware of “where to put power”. Production (addition challenge production) is performed. In the following, an example of an effect in the “additional accessory game” and an actual operation (availability determination operation) will be described.

[Additional challenge production]
FIG. 40 is a continuous diagram showing an example of effects executed during the “additional accessory game”. For example, assume that the variable start winning device 28 opens and the special symbol starts to fluctuate due to the first game ball entering. Due to the control by the main control CPU 72, the determination of “no win” or “small hit” is made internally at the start of the change, and the determination result command is transmitted to the effect control device 124, whereby the change display of the special symbol It is possible to add a challenge effect.

[Title cut-in production]
In FIG. 40 (A): For example, the entire display screen is darkened with the start of the change of the special symbol, and character information representing a title such as “addition challenge” is displayed in a cut-in (interrupt) manner. In addition, lightning-like emphasized images (effect images) are displayed above and below the character information. Such a title cut-in effect makes it possible for players to be aware that they can “try to increase the number of limiters from now on” and to attract a great deal of interest in the “additional bonus game”. Event presentation execution means).

[Game contents explanation production]
40B: Following the title cut-in effect, for example, an image representing the movement of the rotating body 282 and the game ball is displayed on the display screen, and a female character is displayed. The effect of uttering a line such as “Add on!” Is performed (specific event effect execution means). Here, the pocket 282b of the rotating body 282 is expressed as a “chance hole”. Since the pocket 282b has a U-shaped border and the other recovery holes 282a do not have such a border, the player can easily recognize that the pocket 282b is a “chance hole”. In addition, since the game ball is shown entering the pocket 282b as the “chance hole” in the screen, the game content “the game ball will be added when the game ball is inserted into the chance hole” is clearly shown to the player. Can be taught. Further, at this timing, the LED illumination built in the ball sorter unit 280 is turned on, and the visibility of the sort operation by the rotating body 282 is improved.

  By performing such an extra challenge production, the player clearly recognizes that “I am now ready to put power” and “whether or not the game ball enters the chance hole” Can be provided.

[Example of the action of an added bonus game (success pattern)]
FIG. 41 is a continuous diagram showing an operation example (success pattern) of an actual extra game game by the ball sorter unit 280. Hereinafter, an example of the operation of the extra game will be described in order.

[When winning the first ball]
In FIG. 41 (A): It is assumed that the variable start winning device 28 is opened and a game ball enters. In this case, the opening / closing member 28a is in the open position, and the start winning opening 28a is opened. At this time, the first game ball (first ball) entered is guided to the guide passage 288 via the route switching member 284. At this time, if the pocket 282b is opposed to the guide passage 288 from the relationship with the rotation angle (position) of the rotating body 282, the first game ball enters the pocket 282b (chance hole) with good timing.

[After the second ball]
41 (B): When the first game ball is detected by the start winning opening switch 82, the path switching member 284 swings to the left after the above-described ball path switching effective timer time (about 50 to 100 ms). To do. As a result, the second and subsequent game balls are discharged. In addition, when the opening time of the variable start winning device 28 ends, the opening / closing member 28b returns to the closed position and the start winning port 28a is closed. Note that a game ball that has already been entered is treated as an effective prize by passing through the start prize opening switch 82 within an effective time (about 2 seconds) after closing.
On the other hand, the first game ball that has entered the pocket 282b is transported in the direction of rotation as the rotating body 282 rotates.

[Gate passing]
41 (C): When the rotary body 282 rotates, when the pocket 282b reaches a position facing the guide path 293, the game ball in the pocket 282b is released and passes through the probability state determination area switch 83 as it is. To do. As a result, a “gate passage” in the game flow occurs, resulting in “an added bonus game success”. The second and subsequent game balls are continuously discharged.

[Additional success production]
FIG. 42 is a diagram illustrating an example of an effect that is executed when the “additional accessory game is successful”.

[Additional notice production]
In FIG. 42 (A): As described above, when “the added bonus game success (passing through the gate)” occurs, the “addition notification” effect in the game flow is performed. In this example, an image simulating a relatively large heart shape is displayed at the center of the display screen, and information on the number of times of addition of “+10” is displayed inside, for example, as if the heart shape is flashing. An image is displayed (resetting opportunity generation effect execution means). In addition, the character information of “get on board!” Is displayed large above the heart figure, and the effect of increasing the display of the remaining limiter meter M by 10 times is also performed. Thereby, it can be transmitted to the player that “the remaining number of limiters has been added 10 times due to the success of the extra game.” Such an extra notification effect can be executed based on, for example, a state designation command and a limiter remaining number command transmitted from the main control CPU 72.

  In FIG. 42 (B): After “success in the extra bonus game”, for example, when shifting to the “low probability state” and “time reduction state” under the control of the main control CPU 72, the screen returns to the above chance zone screen.

  [F19] Even when [F29] single pass wins during [F19] probability change and [F57] passing through the gate, the above “additional accessory game success effect” is executed. In this case, an extra will occur internally in response to a single winning, but in the present embodiment, as described above, it is shown in the production as if the extra was generated due to "successful bonus game" be able to.

  The above is the flow at the time of “success in the added bonus game”, but the flow at the time of “failed at the bonus game” is as follows.

[Example of action of an added bonus game (failure pattern)]
FIG. 43 is a continuous diagram showing an operation example (failure pattern) of an actual extra game game by the ball sorter unit 280.

[When winning the first ball]
In FIG. 43 (A): Here, it is assumed that the variable start winning device 28 opens and the game ball enters. Similarly, the game ball (first ball) that has entered first is guided to the guide passage 288 via the route switching member 284. At this time, from the relationship with the rotation angle (position) of the rotating body 282, if the recovery hole 282a is opposed to the guide passage 288 instead of the pocket 282b, the first game ball enters the recovery hole 282a. .

[After the second ball]
In FIG. 43B, similarly to the success pattern, the second and subsequent game balls are discharged by the path switching member 284. In addition, when the opening time of the variable start winning device 28 ends, the opening / closing member 28b returns to the closed position and the start winning port 28a is closed. Further, the first game ball that has entered the recovery hole 282 a is conveyed in the rotation direction as the rotating body 282 rotates.

[Gate non-passing (discharge)]
43 (C): When the collection hole 282a into which the game ball has entered reaches the position from 12:00 to 11:00 as the rotating body 282 rotates, a discharge passage (not shown) located behind the collection hole 282a. ) Enters the game ball and is discharged out of the ball sorter unit 280. In this case, the probability state determination area switch 83 has not passed in the current game. As a result, “gate non-passing” in the game flow results in “additional accessory game failure”. The second and subsequent game balls are continuously discharged.

[Addition failure production]
FIG. 44 is a diagram illustrating an example of an effect executed when “additional accessory game failure” occurs.

  In FIG. 44 (A): As described above, when “additional accessory game failure (gate non-passing)” occurs, “addition failure production” is performed (specific event production execution means). In this example, the character information “Zanen ...” is displayed on the display screen, and the female character is disappointed. As a result, it is possible to notify the player that “this additional bonus game was a failure”, and to change his / her feelings toward the success of the next extra bonus game. Such an addition failure effect can be executed based on, for example, a state designation command and a limiter remaining number command (or a special symbol stop command) transmitted from the main control CPU 72.

  In FIG. 44 (B): Then, after “failed to add bonus game”, the screen returns to the chance zone screen. In this case, the display number of the limiter remaining number meter M has not increased.

  Up to this point, [F19] is an effect pattern of “successful bonus game” or “successful bonus game” at the time of a non-winning or small hit in the probability change, but [F19] [F29] If a single shot is won and [F59] is not passed through the gate, the flow of [F60] additional notification (relief) is made as described above. This is because, although an extra has occurred internally, it appears to be an “additional accessory game failure”, so it appears as if it was added by relief. In the following, an example of the effect of adding up notification by relief will be described.

[Additional notice with relief pattern]
FIG. 45 is a continuous diagram showing an example of the effect of adding notification using the relief pattern. In the following, description will be given in order.

[Addition failure production (apparently)]
45 (A): [F19] If [F29] one-shot win is selected during [F19] probability change and [F59] is not passed through the gate, an “addition failure effect” is apparently performed (specific event effect execution means). In this example, the character information “Zanen ...” is also displayed on the display screen, and the female character is disappointed. As a result, it can be apparently transmitted to the player that “the added bonus game is unsuccessful this time”. Such an apparent addition failure effect can be executed based on, for example, a special symbol stop symbol command and a lottery result command transmitted from the main control CPU 72.

[Moving body fall effect]
45 (B): After the apparent addition failure effect is generated, an effect of dropping the upper movable body 40f to the front side of the liquid crystal display 42 is performed (reset opportunity generation effect execution means). In addition, an image as if a flash is emitted from the heart-shaped portion of the movable body 40f is displayed on the display screen. Further, at this time, a mode in which some sound effect is emitted from the speakers 54, 55, 56 may be used. With such a performance, it is possible to make the player feel a surprise of “what happened” and attract a strong interest.

[Additional notice (relief)]
In FIG. 45 (C): The movable body 40f returns to the initial position, and the effect of “add-on notification (relief)” is executed in the display screen (resetting opportunity generation effect executing means). The effect mode in this case is the same as the effect when the regular addition is successful ((A) in FIG. 42). As a result, the player can be given a pseudo-sense that “the extra bonus game has failed, but an extra has occurred due to relief”, and a fresh surprise can be given.

[Other limiter addition examples]
FIG. 46 is a diagram illustrating an effect example in which a limiter addition is generated separately from the “additional accessory game”. As described above, in the present embodiment, it is shown on the stage that the addition occurs through the visual “additional bonus game”, but the actual number of additions is related to the remaining limiter at the time of occurrence. Therefore, the addition notification may be performed in two or more times without notifying all the addition times at once. In this case, various modes can be considered for the production technique (how to show) when the second and subsequent additions are expressed on the production.

[Additional production example (second time)]
In FIG. 46 (A): For example, at a certain point in time, due to “success in extra game”, if “limiter count” actually occurs 10 times, this is divided into 5 times and 2 times. Can be added. That is, “+5 times” is displayed in the first added bonus game success effect ((A) in FIG. 42), and then the second added effect is performed after several hit variations. In this case, an image simulating a relatively small heart shape is displayed on the screen, and information on the number of times of addition, for example, “+5” is displayed inside the image. In addition, an effect of increasing the display of the limiter remaining number meter M by 5 times is performed (not shown). Thereby, it can be transmitted to the player that “the remaining limiter count has been added five times”. Thereby, although the number of times of addition at the time of “success in the added bonus game” is reduced, it is possible to give the player a sense of surprise or surprise by generating a number of additional effects.

  (B) in FIG. 46: Or, when the limiter remaining number meter M has already been displayed with a small remaining amount, an actual increase of 15 times can be expressed as an additional effect. In this case, an image simulating a relatively large heart shape is displayed on the screen, and information on the number of times of adding “+15” is displayed inside the image. In addition, an effect of increasing the display of the limiter remaining number meter M by 15 degrees at a stretch is performed (not shown). Thereby, it can be transmitted to the player that “the remaining limiter count has been added 15 times at a time”. In addition, when the limiter remaining number meter M display is low, an additional has occurred, so that the tension of “the limiter may be gone” is released, and the feeling of relief and joy due to the addition is displayed. be able to.

[Director after reaching the limiter]
Next, FIG. 47 is a diagram illustrating an example of an effect executed after reaching the limiter. For example, when the remaining “limiter count” reaches 0 times in the game flow, the following example effects are executed.

[End production]
In FIG. 47, (A): In this case, for example, the character information “chance zone end” is displayed on the screen, and the display number of the limiter remaining number meter M becomes zero. As a result, the player is instructed to “end during probability change” and contributes to maintaining motivation for the next probability change entry.

[Continuation (revival) production]
47 (B): On the other hand, in the case of shifting to [F31] time reduction after reaching the limiter in the actual game flow, the continuous effect is executed following the above-mentioned end effect. In this case, an effect of dropping the movable body 40f to the front side of the liquid crystal display 42 is performed. In addition, the appearance as if the female character in the background image is surprised at the fall of the movable body 40f is expressed in a stunning manner. Then, at the lower position in the screen, for example, an effect is performed in which the display number of the limiter remaining number meter M returns to full (full) (18). Although not particularly illustrated, the movable body 40f may return to the original position after this, and a character such as “continuation of chance zone” may be displayed on the screen, for example. In any case, it is possible to give a big surprise to the player by executing such a continuous effect. Further, by using the movable body 40f, it is possible to enhance the visual appeal and maximize the effect of the presentation.

  In the present embodiment, as described above, the “superior bonus game” is executed in response to the non-winning or small hit after reaching the limiter as described above, but in this case, without displaying “chance zone end”, The above-described “additional accessory game success pattern” effect may be executed. As a result, it is possible to make the player strongly aware that “the bonus game has been added even if the limiter count becomes 0”, and the motivation for the “additional bonus game” can be increased next time.

[Background change production]
In addition, in the present embodiment, for example, when the “limiter count” decreases in the game flow, an effect of changing the background image according to the remaining count is performed.
FIG. 48 is a diagram illustrating an example of a background image that changes as the game flow progresses.

[Initial stage production]
FIG. 48 (A): For example, in the early stage of the transition to [F19] in the game flow [F19], the background image is the “female character wearing a yukata” and this is the “initial stage”, for example. . In this case, since the content of the background image is relatively calm, it is possible to express a stable impression that has just shifted to the probability change. Although not shown here, it is assumed that the above-mentioned limiter remaining number meter M, “right-handed” character display, and the like are displayed on the display screen (the same applies hereinafter).

[Yukata stage production]
48B: When the remaining “limiter count” decreases to some extent as the game flow progresses (for example, the remaining 17 to 14 times), the background image is changed based on a lottery for effect control. Production is performed. In this example, for example, a large “female character wearing a yukata” is displayed on the display screen, and this is, for example, a “yukata stage”. In this way, by performing an effect (stage change effect) that changes from the “initial stage” to the “yukata stage”, the visual impact on the player is enhanced, and [F19] Can give a sense of continuity and a sense of tension.

[Fireworks stage production]
In FIG. 48 (C): When the game flow further progresses and the “limiter count” gradually decreases (for example, the remaining 8 to 5 times), the background image is further changed based on the lottery for effect control. Production is performed. In this example, for example, the display screen is changed to “Landscape of fireworks in the night sky”, and “Scenery of another female character looking up at fireworks” is displayed in a stunning manner. In the present embodiment, this is, for example, a “fireworks stage”. By executing such an effect of changing to the “fireworks stage”, it is possible to finally make the player feel that the game in the middle of [F19] probability change has reached the climax.

[Festival stage production]
In FIG. 48 (D): This example changes the background image to “festival scenery”, and in the present embodiment, this is referred to as “festival stage”. This “festival stage” represents that the remaining “number of limiters” is small (for example, 4 to 1 time). By executing such an effect to change to the “festival stage”, the player can realize that [F19] the game that is undergoing certain change is low, or add it when the limiter arrives (or before it reaches). It can make you feel nervous about whether continuation will occur.

[Director after reaching the limiter]
Next, FIG. 49 is a diagram showing an example of an effect executed when the chance zone is not re-entered after reaching the limiter (when returning to the normal game). For example, when the remaining “limiter count” reaches 0 times in the game flow, the following example effects are executed.

[End production]
FIG. 49A: In this case, for example, character information of “chance zone end” is displayed on the screen, and the display number of the limiter remaining number meter M becomes zero. As a result, the player is instructed to “end during probability change” and contributes to maintaining motivation for the next probability change entry.

[Game description production]
In FIG. 49 (B): [F1] When shifting to the normal game after reaching the limiter in the actual game flow, the game explanation effect is executed following the above-mentioned end effect. In this example, a female character appears on the screen of the liquid crystal display 42, and an effect of generating a dialogue such as "Please challenge again" is performed. In addition, an arrow symbol indicating the left portion in the game area 8a is displayed (launch position designation effect). In the example shown in the figure, a band-like area is provided at the upper part of the screen of the liquid crystal display 42, and left-handed character information and a left-pointing arrow symbol are displayed in the band-like area. By executing such an effect, it is possible to prompt the player to “left strike” and be aware that the chance zone has ended. At this time, sound may be generated from the speakers 54, 55, and 56 in accordance with the display of the dialogue as character information on the display screen.

  Next, an example of a control method for specifically realizing the above effects will be described. The above-mentioned normal symbol deviation effect (FIGS. 32 and 41), the normal symbol effect (FIGS. 37 to 40, FIG. 42), the variable start winning device operation effect (FIG. 35), and the special symbol change effect (FIG. 36, FIG. 37, 38), probability change effect (FIG. 39), limiter addition effect (FIG. 46), effect after reaching the limiter (FIGS. 47, 49), background change effect (FIG. 48), launch position designation effect (FIG. 39) Etc.) are controlled through the following control process.

[Production control processing]
FIG. 50 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of effect control processing executed by the effect control CPU 126. This effect control process is executed, for example, in a timer interrupt process (interrupt management process) separately from a reset start (main) process (not shown). The effect control CPU 126 generates a timer interrupt at a predetermined interrupt cycle (for example, a period of several tens of μs to several ms) during execution of the reset start process, and executes the timer interrupt process.

  The effect control process includes a command reception process (step S400), a launch position designation effect management process (step S401), an effect symbol management process (step S402), a normal symbol hit effect management process (step S404), and a display output process (step S405), a lamp driving process (step S406), an acoustic driving process (step S408), an effect random number update process (step S410), and other processes (step S412). Hereinafter, the basic flow of the effect control process will be described along each process.

  Step S400: In the command receiving process, the effect control CPU 126 receives an effect command transmitted from the main control CPU 72. The effect control CPU 126 analyzes the received commands and stores them in the command buffer area of the RAM 130 according to type. The production commands transmitted from the main control CPU 72 include, for example, a start gate passage command, a normal symbol operation memory number command, a start opening winning tone control command, a demonstration production command, a lottery result command, a variation pattern command, a variation Start command, stop symbol command, symbol stop command, state designation command, time reduction function operation count command (count cut counter count command), limiter remaining command, error notification command, round count command, launch position designation command, special game There are a management status command, a normal game management status command, and the like.

  Step S401: In the launch position designation effect management process, the effect control CPU 126 controls the contents of the launch position designation effect (launch position designation effect execution means). In this process, the contents of the launch position designation effect (FIG. 39, etc.) are controlled.

  Step S402: In the effect symbol management process, the effect control CPU 126 controls the contents of the variable display effect and the stop display effect using the effect symbol. In this process, the contents such as the above-mentioned normal symbol deviation effect (FIG. 33) and the normal symbol effect (FIG. 34) are controlled.

  Step S404: In the normal symbol after-effects management process, the effect control CPU 126 controls the effects after winning in the normal symbol lottery (operation lottery). For example, the effect control CPU 126 controls the contents of effects when the variable start winning device 28 is operated, and controls the contents of effects when the variable winning device 30 is opened and closed. In this process, the above-described variable start winning device operation effect (FIG. 35), special symbol change effect (FIGS. 36, 37, and 38), a probable change effect (FIG. 39), and an additional bonus game effect (FIG. 35). 40), addition success effect (FIG. 42), addition failure effect (FIG. 44), other limiter addition effect (FIG. 46), effect after reaching the limiter (FIGS. 47 and 49), and background change effect (FIG. 48) Be controlled. Note that the contents of the post symbol management processing for normal symbols will be further described later with reference to another drawing.

  Step S405: In the display output process, the effect control CPU 126 gives basic control information of the effect contents to the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146) (for example, the number of working memories of normal symbols, the variable effect pattern number, the notice effect) Number, effect mode number, limiter added effect pattern number, limiter remaining number meter display number pattern number, background change effect pattern number, revival effect pattern number, end effect pattern number, etc.). Thereby, the effect display control device 144 (the display control CPU 146 and the VDP 152) controls the display operation by the liquid crystal display 42 based on the instructed contents of the effect (acts as various effect executing means).

  Step S406: In the lamp driving process, the effect control CPU 126 outputs a control signal to the lamp driving circuit 132. In response to this, the lamp driving circuit 132 drives the various lamps 46, 48, 50, 52, the panel lamp 53, and the like (turns on or off, blinks, changes in luminance gradation, etc.) based on the control signal. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 outputs a control signal to the LED illumination built in the ball sorter unit 280. The lamp driving circuit 132 drives (turns on or off) the LED illumination based on the control signal.

  Step S408: In the next acoustic drive process, the effect control CPU 126 instructs the sound drive circuit 134 about the effect contents (for example, BGM, audio data, etc. during various effects). Thereby, the sound according to the production content is output from the speakers 54, 55, and 56.

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

  Step S412: In other processing, for example, the effect control CPU 126 outputs a control signal to the driving IC of the movable body 40f. The movable body 40f operates using the movable body solenoid 57 as a drive source, and performs an effect in synchronism with the display of the image by the liquid crystal display 42 as described above or independently.

  Through the above-described effect control process, the effect control CPU 126 can comprehensively control the effect contents in the pachinko machine 1. Next, the contents of the effect symbol management process and the normal symbol hit effect management process executed in the effect control process will be described.

[Direction design management processing]
FIG. 51 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the effect symbol management process. The effect symbol management process includes a subroutine group of an execution selection process (step S450), an effect symbol change pre-process (step S452), an effect symbol change process (step S454), and an effect symbol stop display process (step S456). It is the composition which includes. Hereinafter, the basic flow of the effect symbol management process will be described along each process.

  Step S450: In the execution selection process, the effect control CPU 126 selects the jump destination of the process to be executed next (any one of steps S452 to S456). For example, the effect control CPU 126 sets the program address of the process to be executed next as the jump destination address, and sets the end of the effect symbol management process in the “jump table” as the return address. Which process is selected as the next jump destination depends on the progress of the processes performed so far. For example, if the situation has not yet started the change display effect, the effect control CPU 126 selects the effect symbol change pre-process (step S452) as the next jump destination. On the other hand, if the effect symbol variation pre-processing has already been completed, the effect control CPU 126 selects the effect symbol variation processing (step S454) as the next jump destination, and if the effect symbol variation in-process has been completed, As a jump destination, the effect symbol stop display processing (step S456) is selected. When the variable start winning device is operating (opening / closing operation, end process, etc.), the effect control CPU 126 selects the jump destination of the process to be executed next (any one of steps S452 to S456). First, the effect symbol management process is terminated.

  Step S452: In the effect symbol variation pre-processing, the effect control CPU 126 performs an operation of preparing conditions for starting the variation display effect using the effect symbol (symbol effect executing means). In this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects the contents of the reach effect according to various conditions (the lottery result, the variation pattern, etc.), or the effect pattern for the notice effect (the advance notice pattern before reach occurrence other than the pre-read notice effect pattern) , A notice pattern etc. after reach occurrence). In addition, the production control CPU 126 also performs demonstration production control when the pachinko machine 1 is in a so-called customer waiting state. The specific processing content will be further described later with reference to another flowchart.

  Step S454: In the effect symbol variation processing, the effect control CPU 126 generates control information instructing the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146) as necessary. For example, when performing an effect using the effect switching button 45 during execution of the variable display effect using the effect symbol, the effect control CPU 126 monitors whether or not the player has operated the effect button, and an effect corresponding to the result is displayed. The control information on the contents (button effect) is instructed to the display control CPU 146.

Step S456: In the effect symbol stop display process, the effect control CPU 126 controls the contents of the stop display effect using the effect symbols and moving images in a manner corresponding to the result of the internal lottery. That is, the effect control CPU 126 instructs the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146) to end the variable display effect and execute the stop display effect. In response to this, the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146) ends the variable display effect that has been actually executed in the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42, and executes the stop display effect. Thereby, the stop display effect is executed substantially in synchronization with the stop display of the normal symbol, and the result of the internal lottery can be effectively taught (disclosure, notification, notification, etc.) to the player (design effect execution). means).
When the above process is completed, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the effect control process (FIG. 50).

[Normal presentation management processing per symbol]
FIG. 52 is a flowchart showing a configuration example of the after-effects management process for normal symbols. The normal symbol after-effect management process includes, for example, an execution selection process (step S500), an initial variable start winning device operation process (step S502), a special symbol variation effect process (step S504), and a special symbol stop display effect process (step S504). Step S506) includes a subroutine group of end effect processing (Step S508). Hereinafter, the basic flow of the effect control process will be described along each process.

  Step S500: In the execution selection process, the effect control CPU 126 selects the jump destination of the process to be executed next (any one of steps S502 to S508). For example, the effect control CPU 126 sets the program address of the process to be executed next as the jump destination address, and sets the end of the post effect management process per normal symbol in the “jump table” as the return address. Which process is selected as the next jump destination depends on the progress of the processes performed so far. For example, the effect control CPU 126 selects the first variable start winning device operating process (step S502) as the first jump destination. On the other hand, if the first variable start winning apparatus operation process (step S502) has already been completed and a special symbol variation pattern command (or a start opening winning sound control command) has been received, the effect control CPU 126 can As a jump destination, the special symbol variation effect process (step S504) is selected. If the special symbol variation effect processing (step S504) is completed and a special symbol stop command has been received, the effect control CPU 126 displays the special symbol stop display effect processing (step S506) as the next jump destination. ) Is selected. Then, the effect control CPU 126 selects the end process (step S508) as the next jump destination when the end flag is set in the effect process after the special symbol stop display. It should be noted that the first variable start winning device activation process (step S502) is not selected as a jump destination when a state designation command representing "time reduction state" is received. This is because when the game flow is once shifted to the “time reduction state” ([F19] during probability change or [F31] during time reduction), the center of the effect content is during the above-mentioned probability change effect (FIG. 39) or during an extra game. Production (FIG. 40), Addition success production (FIG. 42), Addition failure production (FIG. 44), Other limiter addition production (FIG. 46), Limiter arrival production (FIGS. 47 and 49), Background change production (FIG. 48) This is because there is no need to execute the variable start winning device operating effect (FIG. 35) during this period.

  Step S502: In the first variable start winning device operation process, the effect control CPU 126 controls the effect when the variable start winning device 26 is operated after the first hit of the normal symbol (operation lottery). The contents of the effects controlled here are the same as the effects when the variable start winning device is activated (FIG. 35). For example, a message such as “Please turn right!” Is displayed on the screen of the liquid crystal display 42. By displaying, the progress status in the game flow is guided to the player. By executing such an effect, it is possible to prevent the player from digesting the game indiscriminately and to reconfirm the purpose consciousness to prevent a decrease in gaming motivation.

  Step S504: In the special symbol variation production process, the production control CPU 126 can produce the content corresponding to the special symbol variation display or stop display. The content of the effect controlled here is the same as the special symbol variation effect described above (FIGS. 36, 37, and 38). By performing such an effect, the player has a sense of expectation whether or not he / she can enter the chance change (chance zone) due to the special symbol (internal lottery) fluctuation after the first winning of the normal symbol (action lottery), It is possible to provide fun and fun.

  Further, in the special symbol variation effect processing in step S504, the effect control CPU 126 controls the contents of the effect during the extra game (FIG. 40). That is, when the internal state is a “high probability state” and a stop symbol command indicating that the internal lottery is not won or a small hit is received, the effect control CPU 126 selects an effect pattern during the extra bonus game here (specification) Processing as event presentation execution means). The effect control CPU 126 also selects the effect pattern during the extra bonus game here when the internal state is the “high probability state” and the stop symbol command indicating the winning of “single symbol 1” is received (specification). Processing as event presentation execution means). In addition, in the special symbol variation effect processing in step S504, the effect control CPU 126 selects a variation effect pattern of effect symbols (displayed symbolically).

  Step S506: In the special symbol stop display effect processing, the effect control CPU 126, as described above, the probable change effect (FIG. 39), the successful addition effect (FIG. 42), the unsuccessful effect effect (FIG. 44), and other limiter extra effects (FIG. 46) Controls the contents of effects after reaching the limiter (FIGS. 47 and 49). As a result, information on the flow and progress of the game after the game flow has shifted to [F19] Probability Change or [F31] Time Shortening is communicated to the player, and the occurrence of an additional “limiter count” is strongly appealed. Can be. The contents of the special symbol stop display effect process will be further described later using another flowchart.

  Step S508: In the end effect process, the effect control CPU 126 controls the content of the effect accompanying the end of [F19] probability change. The content of the effect controlled here is the same as the aspect (“A” in FIG. 49) representing “chance zone end” among the effects after reaching the limiter described above. By executing such an effect, once the [F19] probability change is completed, the player is informed in the game flow, and the game motivation is maintained for the next transition to [F19] probability change. Can be made.

[Produce processing after special symbol stop display]
FIG. 53 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of the special symbol stop display post-production effect process. In this processing, the effect control CPU 126 performs a limiter addition effect and a special symbol (internal lottery) winning symbol-specific (normal or probable) processing.

  Step S600: First, the effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the current stop symbol is “out-of-point symbol” or “small hit symbol”. This confirmation can be performed based on the stop symbol command received from the main control CPU 72. The effect control CPU 126 confirms the stop symbol command stored in the command buffer area of the RAM 130, for example, and confirms that the current stop symbol is either “out of symbol (non-winning)” or “small hit”. (Yes) Next, step S610 is executed.

  Step S610: The effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the accessory game is successful. This confirmation can be performed based on, for example, a state designation command and a limiter remaining number command. That is, the effect control CPU 126 indicates that the state designation command stored in the command buffer area of the RAM 130 represents a change from the “high probability state” to the “low probability state”, and the limiter remaining number command is “0”. , It is determined that the accessory game is successful (Yes), and otherwise, it is determined that the accessory game is unsuccessful (No). This is because the internal state changes from “high probability state” to “low” in the fall processing (FIG. 24) by the main control CPU 72 when passing through the probability state determination area switch 83 at the time of non-winning or small hit from the “high probability state”. This is because the state moves to the “probability state” and the limiter remaining number is updated to zero. Accordingly, when it is determined that the role game is successful (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S612. When it is determined that the role game is unsuccessful (No), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S614.

[At the time of a success judgment of an accessory game]
Step S612: In this case, the effect control CPU 126 executes an additional success effect pattern selection process. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects an additional success effect pattern (FIG. 42, etc.) (processing as a resetting opportunity occurrence effect executing means). In addition, the effect control CPU 126 determines the number of times of addition to be displayed in the success effect from the value of the limiter remaining number command up to the previous time. For example, if the value of the limiter remaining number command up to the previous time is 10, the number of times of addition is “18 times−10 times = 8 times”, so the number of times of addition to be displayed is determined as “8 times”. Alternatively, the effect control CPU 126 may determine the number of times of addition that is smaller than the actual number of times of addition at a certain frequency.

[At the time of judgment of an object game failure]
Step S614: In this case, the effect control CPU 126 executes an extra failure effect pattern selection process. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects the addition failure effect pattern (FIG. 44) (processing as a resetting opportunity occurrence effect executing means).

[When winning]
The above procedure is a flow when the internal lottery is other than winning, that is, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in a non-winning or small win mode, but when the internal lottery corresponds to winning (step S600). : No), the production control CPU 126 proceeds to the procedure after step S601.

  Step S601: The effect control CPU 126 checks whether or not the current winning symbol corresponds to either “probability variation symbol 1” or “probability variation symbol 2”. This confirmation can be performed based on the winning symbol command received from the main control CPU 72. For example, when the effect control CPU 126 confirms the winning symbol command stored in the command buffer area of the RAM 130 and confirms that the current winning symbol does not correspond to either “probable variation symbol 1” or “probability variation symbol 2”. (No), the production control CPU 126 proceeds to step S604.

[When there is a short time and is normally won]
Step S604: Next, the effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the current winning symbol corresponds to the “normal symbol with time reduction”. This confirmation can be confirmed based on, for example, the time reduction function operation number command received from the main control CPU 72. That is, the effect control CPU 126 confirms, for example, the time shortening function activation number command stored in the command buffer area of the RAM 130, and confirms that the value is greater than 0 (> 0) (Yes), then proceeds to step S606. move on.

  Step S606: The effect control CPU 126 executes a pseudo addition success effect pattern selection process. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects a pseudo-addition success effect pattern (FIG. 42) that is normally performed at the time of winning (a process as resetting opportunity occurrence effect executing means). Further, the effect pattern selected here includes an additional notification effect (FIG. 45) using a relief pattern.

  When either step S606 or step S612 is executed, the effect control CPU 126 sets the effect limiter remaining counter to the maximum. That is, the effect control CPU 126 stores in advance, for example, an effect limiter remaining counter in the count area of the RAM 130 based on the limiter remaining number command received from the main control CPU 72 in the previous command reception process (step S400 in FIG. 50). However, in step S606 or step S612, the effect control CPU 126 sets the effect limiter remaining number counter to the maximum value (for example, 18 times). This is because if the winning symbol of the special symbol (internal lottery) falls under “ordinary symbol with time reduction”, or the remaining number of limiters is updated to 0 by the fall process, the subsequent game flow will be [F31] time reduction. By shifting from the middle to [F19] during the probability change, the “limiter count” is reset in the processing of the main control CPU 72 as described above. It should be noted that in step S606 or step S612, the effect limiter remaining number counter is not specifically set, and a status such as “reset state” may be set.

  In any case, when the effect control CPU 126 executes step S612 or step S614 in a case other than winning (non-winning or small hit), or when step S606 is executed in a normal win with a short time, the effect control CPU 126 performs the effect limiter. Next, step S602 is executed with the remaining number counter set to the maximum value.

[When winning a certainty]
Alternatively, when it is confirmed in the previous step S604 that the current winning symbol is either “probability variation symbol 1” or “probability variation symbol 2” (step S604: Yes), the presentation control CPU 126 next executes step S602. . In this case, the effect limiter remaining number counter is not set to the maximum value.

  Step S602: In any case, the effect control CPU 126 executes a chance effect pattern selection process. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 is specific to the above-mentioned effect during change (FIG. 39), the limiter addition effect (FIG. 46), the effect after reaching the limiter (FIGS. 47 and 49), the background change effect (FIG. 48), and the like. Select a production pattern. The contents of the during-chance effect pattern selection process will be described later using another flowchart.

[Normal selection without time reduction]
On the other hand, when it is confirmed in the previous step S604 that the current winning symbol does not correspond to the “normal symbol with time reduction” (step S604: No), the effect control CPU 126 proceeds to step S608.

  Step S608: In this case, the effect control CPU 126 sets an end process flag. As a result, the end effect process (step S508 in FIG. 52) is selected as the next jump destination in the execution selection process (step S500 in FIG. 52) after returning to the normal symbol after effect management process (FIG. 52). Will be.

[Dance pattern selection process during chance]
FIG. 54 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the during-chance effect pattern selection process executed in the effect process after the special symbol stop display. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along the example of a procedure.

  Step S700: First, the effect control CPU 126 acquires the value of the limiter remaining number counter. The limiter remaining number counter is stored in the count area of the RAM 130 as described above, and is normally updated (subtracted update) based on the value of the limiter remaining number command, or corresponds to the occurrence of a limiter reset (addition). Is set to the maximum value (steps S606 and S612).

  Step S702: Next, the effect control CPU 126 selects the effect content to be given priority from the difference between the limiter remaining number displayed on the screen of the liquid crystal display 42 and the internal limiter remaining number. For example, the effect control CPU 126 first calculates the difference between the display number of the limiter remaining number meter M currently displayed in the screen and the value of the limiter remaining number counter. Then, the effect control CPU 126 selects the effect content to be prioritized from the priority effect selection table (not shown) according to the calculation result.

  The effect pattern during chance mainly includes the second and subsequent limiter addition effects ((A) in FIG. 46) in addition to the background change effect (FIG. 48). It is desirable that the determination is made based on the progress of the game flow. For example, even if the second and subsequent addition effects are not executed, if it is time to execute the background change effect, this time, the background change effect will be given priority, and the second and subsequent addition effects will be executed next time. It is smooth to do. On the other hand, if it is not the timing for executing the background change effect but the timing for executing the second or subsequent unexecuted additional effect, the second or subsequent additional effect can be preferentially executed. In the present embodiment, based on the above-described concept of effect priority, the content of effects to be prioritized according to the difference between the number displayed on the limiter remaining number meter M and the value of the limiter remaining number counter is defined by a priority effect selection table (not shown). doing.

  Step S704: The effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the number-of-times effect (the second and subsequent effects) is selected as the priority effect in the previous step S702. Then, when the number-of-times effect (the second and subsequent effects) is the current priority effect (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 next executes step S706.

  Step S706: In this case, the effect control CPU 126 executes a limiter number increase effect pattern selection process. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 performs an effect lottery using an effect lottery random number, and when this is won, selects the pattern number of the second or later additional effect ((A) in FIG. 46). The limiter added effect pattern number selected here is output to the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146 and VDP 152) in the display output process (step S405 in FIG. 50). As a result, the limiter addition effect shown in FIG. 46A is actually executed in the screen of the liquid crystal display 42.

  On the other hand, if the number-of-times effect (the second and subsequent additions) is not selected as the priority effect in the previous step S702, the effect control CPU 126 determines that the number-of-times effect (the second and subsequent additions) is not the current priority effect. Judge (No), and then execute step S708.

  Step S708: In this case, the effect control CPU 126 executes other effect pattern selection processing. Also in this process, the effect control CPU 126 performs an effect lottery using an effect lottery random number, and when winning is selected, for example, the pattern number of the background change effect (FIG. 48) is selected. Alternatively, for example, when there is no difference between the number displayed on the limiter remaining number meter M and the actual limiter remaining number counter value and both are zero, the effect control CPU 126 reaches the limiter by effect lottery (probability 1/1). The pattern number of the later revival effect (FIG. 47) is selected. The background change effect pattern number or the revival effect pattern number selected here is also output to the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146 and VDP 152) in the display output process (step S405 in FIG. 50). As a result, the background change effects shown in (A) to (D) in FIG. 48 are actually executed in the screen of the liquid crystal display 42, or shown in (A) and (B) in FIG. The rebirth production will be executed.

  In each of the previous step S706 and step S708, particularly when the effect lottery is not won (effect non-winning), the effect control CPU 126 selects an effect pattern number for reducing the display number of the limiter remaining number meter M. Thereby, in any case, an effect of reducing the display number of the limiter remaining number meter M in the screen of the liquid crystal display 42 is executed.

[Summary of production techniques]
According to the example of the production method described above, information useful to the player can be provided as production in accordance with the progress of the game flow in the pachinko machine 1. Specifically, (1) the necessity of “right-handed” has occurred per normal symbol, and (2) internal lottery (special figure fluctuation) due to winning at the variable start winning device 28 (start winning port 28a). (3) Winning in the internal lottery (with time reduction at the time of the first hit), (4) The game flow is changing to [F19] probability change or [F31] time reduction (rushing in) (5) [F19] The remaining “limiter count” decreases during the probability change. (6) The “limiter count” increases due to the success of the role game (in contrast, the role game failure) (7) There was an opportunity to return to [F19] time change after passing [F31] after reaching the limiter, and (8) [F19] End of time change due to arrival of the limiter. However, the game flow returns to [F1] normal game Providing clarity to the player and the like information of the effect it has can (transfer, teaching, suggestion) to. In addition, regarding (3) above, it can also be provided as information that a winning was not obtained in the internal lottery.

  Thereby, the player can fully enjoy the game performance by the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment while preventing the game from being performed indiscriminately while the progress of the game flow is not understood by the player.

  In particular, in the present embodiment, [F19] If a non-win is generated with a certain probability (1/5) even during the probability change or a small hit is generated with a probability of 1/10, there is an "additional bonus game" Can be impressed by the player in the production. As a result, it is possible to reinforce “the place to put power” as a hill for games such as “whether or not it can be added” and the persuasive power of production.

  The present invention can employ various modifications without being limited to the above-described embodiments. For example, the images and operations given as examples of various production methods are merely examples, and these can be modified as appropriate.

  Also, the winning probabilities (operational lottery, internal lottery), small hit probability, probability variation ratio, symbol selection ratio, and the like listed in one embodiment are merely examples, and these may be changed as appropriate.

  For example, although the probability variation ratio is 97% in one embodiment, the probability variation symbol may be 100% when winning. In this case, although there is no internal addition due to a single winning winning change (no pseudo-addition notification), an additional will occur due to the success of a non-winning or small hitting game, so the game of this embodiment also Can be suitably realized.

  In the extra game using the ball sorter unit 280, only the first game ball is guided to the rotating body 282 and the second and subsequent balls are discharged, but without using the path switching member 284 in particular. All game balls that have entered may be guided to the rotating body 282. In this case, by providing a discharge detection switch in the discharge passage, if the first ball (first game ball) is detected by the discharge detection switch, even if the second and subsequent balls pass the probability state determination area switch 83, it is invalid. To do. As a result, only the first ball is treated as effective in the added bonus game, and even if the second ball or later enters the pocket 282b, it can be determined that the added bonus game has failed. On the contrary, when the game ball passes through the probability state determination area switch 83 before the discharge is detected by the discharge detection switch, it can be determined that the additional bonus game is successful. That is, since the pocket 282b and the recovery hole 282a of the rotating body 282 are at a position opened by 120 °, even if the first ball enters the pocket 282b, the second ball enters the adjacent recovery hole 282a. In addition, the game ball in the pocket 282b is first released and passes through the probability state determination area switch 83, and thereafter, the game ball in the recovery hole 282a is discharged (see FIG. 4).

[Incrementing consecutive times]
In one embodiment, the “limiter count” is initially set as the value of the continuous count, and thereafter, a control process is adopted in which the “limiter count” is subtracted (decremented) and updated every time the probability variation symbol is continuously won. However, it is possible to adopt a process in which “count count” is initially set as the value of the continuous count, and thereafter the “count count” is incremented and updated by 1 every time the probability variable symbol is continuously won. Good. In this case, “count number = 1” is set at the initial setting, and after that, when “count number = 18 times (threshold, upper limit value, etc.)” is reached by the increment update process, it is determined that “limiter has reached” on the control. Can do. In addition, regarding the addition on the way, a game by “adding a limiter” as in the embodiment is performed by resetting the “count number” being incremented to an initial value (once) upon the success of the added bonus game. Can be realized.

  In addition, the structure of the pachinko machine 1 and the board surface configuration are preferable examples including those shown in the drawings, and it goes without saying that these can be appropriately modified.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Pachinko machine 8 Game board unit 8a Game area 20 Middle start gate 21 Right start gate 28 Variable start prize device 30 Variable prize device 33 Normal symbol display device 33a Normal symbol operation memory lamp 34 Special symbol display device 42 Liquid crystal display device 70 Main control Device 72 Main control CPU
74 ROM
76 RAM
124 Production control device 126 Production control CPU

Claims (8)

An internal lottery execution means for executing a predetermined internal lottery when a predetermined lottery opportunity occurs during the game;
When a winning is obtained in the internal lottery execution means by the internal lottery execution means, a winning type determining means for determining at least whether it corresponds to a normal winning type or a specific winning type;
When a winning is obtained in the internal lottery by the internal lottery execution means, an opening operation that changes from a non-operating state in which a winning is difficult to occur to an operating state that facilitates the generation of a winning based on a predetermined opening operation condition. Opening operation means to perform;
When a winning occurs with the opening operation by the opening operation means, a winning privilege generating means for generating a winning privilege;
If the internal lottery is won, the internal state related to the occurrence of the lottery trigger after the release operation by the release operation means is reduced in time so that the lottery trigger can be generated at a normal frequency. A time shortening state transition means for transitioning from the state to a time shortening state in which the occurrence of the lottery trigger is possible at a high frequency compared to the non-time shortening state;
If the winning is obtained by the internal lottery and if the winning type is determined by the winning type determining means in a non-sequential manner when it falls under the specific winning type, the winning type is determined every time the winning is obtained by the internal lottery thereafter. A continuous number setting means for setting a value of a continuous number that can be determined continuously when the means corresponds to the specific winning type, based on a predetermined upper limit number;
Number of consecutive times to update the value of the number of consecutive times for each consecutive decision when the winning type is determined by the internal lottery and when the winning type is determined continuously by the winning type determination means. Update means;
When the value of the continuous number updated by the continuous number updating means reaches a specified number, the winning type determined by the winning type determining means when the winning is obtained by the internal lottery is restricted to the normal winning type Winning type regulation means to
As a result of the winning type being restricted by the winning type restricting means because the value of the continuous number updated by the continuous number updating means has reached the specified number, the winning type of the internal lottery corresponds to the normal winning type Non-time shortening state return means for returning to the non-time shortening state without shifting the internal state after completion of the opening operation by the opening operation means to the time shortening state when determined by the winning type determining means; ,
Determinability operation executing means for determining whether or not to generate a specific event with a predetermined probability at the time of the internal lottery performed after setting the value of the continuous number by the continuous number setting means; ,
In the internal lottery performed after the setting of the value of the continuous number by the continuous number setting unit, when the specific event occurs in the determination availability operation by the determination availability operation execution unit, the continuous number setting unit And a continuous number resetting opportunity generating means for generating a trigger for resetting the value of the continuous number of times. In the gaming machine according to claim 1,
The determination enable / disable operation determining means includes:
The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the determination enabling / disabling operation is executed in such a manner that the process of determining whether or not to generate the specific event with the predetermined probability can be visually recognized. In the gaming machine according to claim 1 or 2,
The continuous number resetting opportunity generating means is:
After the specific event is generated in the determination availability operation by the determination availability operation execution means, and when the winning is obtained in the internal lottery from the next time on by the internal lottery execution means, if the specified winning type is met, Even if it is determined by the winning type determination means, the value of the continuous count is re-applied to the continuous count setting means by treating the determination as not continuous but before the occurrence of the specific event. A gaming machine characterized by generating an opportunity for setting. The gaming machine according to claim 3,
An internal state related to execution of the internal lottery after completion of the opening operation by the opening operation means when winning is obtained by the internal lottery and the winning type determining means determines that the winning type is determined to be applicable to the specific winning type Is shifted from a low probability state in which the winning in the internal lottery is possible with a normal low probability to a high probability state in which the winning in the internal lottery is possible with a higher probability than the low probability state. A probability state transition means,
The continuous number setting means includes
If the winning is obtained in the internal lottery before the high probability state transition means shifts to the high probability state, and the winning type determination means determines that the specific winning type is met, the high probability state Each time the winning type determination means corresponds to the specific winning type every time the winning is obtained in the internal lottery performed after shifting to the high probability state by the shifting means, the number of consecutive times that can be determined continuously. Set the value based on a predetermined maximum number of times,
The continuous number updating means includes
When winning in the internal lottery performed after the transition to the high probability state by the high probability state transition means, and continuously determined by the winning type determination means if it falls under the specific winning type, the continuous Update the value of the number of consecutive times every time determined by
The winning type restricting means is:
After the transition to the high probability state by the high probability state transition means, when the value of the continuous number updated by the continuous number update means reaches a specified number, the winning is obtained when the internal lottery is won. The winning type determined by the type determining means is restricted to the normal winning type,
The continuous number resetting opportunity generating means is:
In the internal lottery performed after the transition to the high-probability state by the high-probability state transition unit, the high-probability state transition occurs when the specific event occurs in the determination-prohibition operation by the determination-prohibition operation execution unit. By ending the high-probability state transferred by means and returning to the low-probability state, when winning is obtained in the internal lottery from the next time by the internal lottery execution means, it corresponds to the specific winning type Even if it is determined by the winning type determining means, the value of the continuous count is re-established with respect to the continuous count setting means by treating the determination as non-continuous rather than continuous before the occurrence of the specific event. A gaming machine characterized by generating an opportunity for setting. In the gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 4,
The determination availability operation executing means includes:
The determination enable / disable operation for determining whether or not to generate the specific event when a result other than winning is obtained in the internal lottery performed after setting the value of the continuous number by the continuous number setting means. And
The continuous number resetting opportunity generating means is:
A result other than winning is obtained in the internal lottery performed after setting the value of the continuous number by the continuous number setting means, and the specific event is generated by the determination availability operation by the decision availability operation executing means. And a trigger for resetting the value of the continuous number to the continuous number setting means. In the gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 5,
Specific event presentation execution means for executing a specific event presentation in an aspect representing execution of the determination availability operation by the determination availability operation execution means;
When the specific event has occurred in the decidability operation executed by the decidability operation execution unit, the trigger for resetting the value of the continuation number to the continuation number setting unit has occurred. A gaming machine, further comprising: a reset trigger generation effect executing means for executing a reset trigger generation effect in a mode to represent. The gaming machine according to claim 6,
The continuous number resetting opportunity generating means is:
Regardless of whether or not the specific event has occurred in the decision availability operation by the decision availability operation execution means, winning in the internal lottery performed after setting the value of the continuous count by the continuous count setting means, and When the winning type determining means determines that the normal winning type falls under the restriction of the winning type restricting means, the internal state after the end of the opening operation by the opening operation means is changed to the time shortening state. By maintaining and setting, if the winning is obtained in the internal lottery performed after this maintenance, and if it is determined by the winning type determining means that it corresponds to the specific winning type, for the continuous number setting means And further generating an opportunity to reset the value of the continuous number of times,
The determination availability operation executing means includes:
Even if the winning result is obtained in the internal lottery performed after setting the value of the continuous number by the continuous number setting means, the determination possibility for determining whether or not to generate the specific event Perform the action,
The specific event presentation execution means includes
Even when the winning result is obtained in the internal lottery performed after the setting of the value of the continuous number by the continuous number setting unit, the execution of the determination possibility operation by the determination possibility operation execution unit is performed. The specific event presentation is executed,
The resetting opportunity generation effect executing means is:
When the specific event has occurred in the decidability operation executed by the decidability operation execution unit, the trigger for resetting the value of the continuation number to the continuation number setting unit has occurred. A game machine characterized by executing the resetting opportunity generation effect according to a mode of representation. The gaming machine according to claim 7,
The resetting opportunity generation effect executing means is:
Trigger for resetting the continuous count value to the continuous count setting means even if the specific event is not generated in the determination enable / disable operation executed by the determination enable / disable operation executing means. The gaming machine according to claim 1, further comprising the step of generating the resetting opportunity in accordance with an aspect indicating that the occurrence of the occurrence of the occurrence of the occurrence of the accident.