JP2014100402A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine capable of preventing a game from not being performed normally due to an abnormality in a distribution device.SOLUTION: A distribution member 202 provided at a distribution device 200 alternately switches between a state of easily distributing a game ball to a left passage 203 among multiple passages and a state of easily distributing the game ball to a right passage 204, on the basis of inflow of the game ball from an inflow port 201. The distribution device determines a winning order abnormality if four or more game balls are detected continuously in either a first start winning port 13 or a second start winning port 14. The distribution device transmits a command that shows variation time and a variation mode before ready-to-win, such as presence or absence of pseudo continuation, presence or absence of slide performance, etc., and transmits a command that shows the variation time and a performance execution mode after the ready-to-win, such as a kind of the ready-to-win, presence or absence of re-lottery performance, etc., as a variation pattern command.

Description

  The present invention is based on the fact that a predetermined game can be played using a game medium, a game area into which the game medium can enter is provided, and the game medium passes through a starting area provided in the game area. The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine that performs variable display of a plurality of types of identification information that can identify each of them.

  As a gaming machine, a game ball, which is a game medium, is launched into a game area by a launching device, and when a game ball wins a prize area such as a prize opening provided in the game area, a predetermined number of prize balls are paid out to the player. There is something to be done. Further, a variable display unit capable of variably displaying the identification information (also referred to as “fluctuation”) is provided, and a predetermined game value is obtained when the display result of the variable display of the identification information in the variable display unit becomes a specific display result. Are configured to give the player.

  The game value is the right that the state of the variable winning ball apparatus provided in the gaming area of the gaming machine becomes advantageous for a player who is easy to win, and the right for becoming advantageous for a player. In other words, or a condition for winning a prize ball is easily established.

  In a pachinko machine, a specific display mode determined in advance is derived and displayed as a display result of variable display of a special symbol (identification information) that is started in the variable display unit based on the winning of a game ball at the start winning opening. If this happens, a “big hit” will occur. Note that the derivation display is to stop and display a symbol (excluding stop before so-called re-variation). When the big hit occurs, for example, the big winning opening is opened a predetermined number of times, and the game shifts to a big hit gaming state where the hit ball is easy to win. And in each open period, if there is a prize for a predetermined number (for example, 10) of the big prize opening, the big prize opening is closed. And the number of times the special winning opening is opened is fixed to a predetermined number (for example, 15 rounds). An opening time (for example, 29 seconds) is determined for each opening, and even if the number of winnings does not reach a predetermined number, the big winning opening is closed when the opening time elapses. Hereinafter, the opening period of each special winning opening may be referred to as a round.

  Some of these gaming machines are configured such that a distribution device for distributing game media (game balls) is provided in the game area. For example, in Patent Document 1, a distribution device (distribution unit) is provided in the game area, and a rotating body provided in the distribution device rotates by the weight of the game medium flowing into the distribution device. It is described that the game media flowing into the distribution device are alternately distributed to the first area and the second area.

JP 2010-104564 A (paragraph 0044-0056, FIG. 3-6)

  However, in the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1, if any abnormality occurs with respect to the sorting device, it is not possible to normally distribute the game media (game balls), and the game may not be performed normally. There is.

  SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that can prevent a game from being unable to be normally performed due to an abnormality of a sorting device.

(Means 1) The gaming machine according to the present invention is capable of performing a predetermined game using a game medium (for example, a game ball), and is provided with a game area (for example, a game area 7) into which the game medium can enter. And a plurality of types of identification information (for example, each of which can be identified based on the fact that the game medium has passed through the starting area (for example, the first starting winning port 13, the second starting winning port 14, and the third starting winning port 17)). For example, a gaming machine that performs variable display of a first special symbol, a second special symbol, and a production symbol, and the first starting region (for example, the first starting winning award 13) and the second starting region (for example, the starting region) , A second start winning opening 14) is provided, a distribution device (for example, a distribution device 200) for distributing game media is provided in the game area, and the distribution device has the game media that has entered the game area in question Inlet that can flow into the sorting device (eg , Inflow port 201), a plurality of passages through which the game medium flowing in from the inflow port can pass (for example, the left side passage 203 and the right side passage 204), and the game medium flowing in from the inflow port Distribution means (e.g., a distribution member 202) that distributes to the first passage (e.g., the left-side passage 203) of the plurality of passages based on the flow of the game medium from the inflow port. ) In the first state (for example, the state in which the sorting member 202 is tilted to the right side as shown in FIGS. 2A and 2D) and the second passage (for example, the right passage 204). Switching to a second state in which the medium is easily distributed (for example, as shown in FIGS. 2B and 2C, the state in which the sorting member 202 is tilted to the left) is performed in a predetermined order (for example, as illustrated in FIG. 2). Alternate) The first start area is provided in such a manner that game media distributed to the first passage can easily pass through (for example, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the first start winning port 13 is provided below the left outlet 205. The second start area is provided in such a manner that the game media distributed to the second passage can easily pass through (for example, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the second start winning opening 14 is provided on the right side). A first detection means (for example, a first start port switch 13a) for detecting a game medium that has passed through the first start area, and a game medium that has passed through the second start area; An abnormality determination means (for example, a second start port switch 14a) and an abnormality determination means for determining an abnormality when the order in which the game media are detected by the first detection means and the second detection means is different from a predetermined order ( For example, game control And a variable display pattern command that indicates a variable display pattern (for example, a variation pattern command) of identification information when variable information is displayed. Display pattern command transmission means (for example, a part for executing step S106 in the game control microcomputer 560), and the variable display pattern command transmission means is a first that shows a variable display mode of identification information as a variable display pattern command. The second command indicating the execution mode of the predetermined effect executed in the variable display of the command and the identification information is transmitted (for example, the game control microcomputer 560 uses the first command in the variation pattern setting process shown in FIG. 21). In the presence of pseudo-ream, A command indicating the first variation time and variation mode before the reach (such as before the second stop if the reach is not reached), such as the presence or absence of the production, The second command determines the variation time and the execution mode of the effect after reaching the reach (after the so-called second stop if the reach is not reached), such as the type of reach and the presence / absence of the redrawing effect. Then, a command indicating the execution time of the determined second variation time and effect is transmitted). With such a configuration, it is possible to perform abnormality determination of the sorting device, so that it is possible to prevent the game from being performed normally due to the abnormality of the sorting device.

(Means 2) In the means 1, the distribution means switches between the first state and the second state approximately alternately (for example, as shown in FIGS. 2A and 2D, for example, the distribution member 202 is on the right side. 2), the distribution member 202 is alternately switched to the left side as shown in FIGS. 2B and 2C), and the game medium has passed through the first start area or the second start area. The game state control means for controlling the game state based on the game state (for example, the portion for executing steps S305 to S307 in the game control microcomputer 560) is provided, and the game state control means has the game medium passing through the second starting area. In such a case, it is possible to control the game state to be advantageous compared to the case where the game medium passes through the first start area (for example, the game control microcomputer 560 is shown in FIGS. 12D and 12E). I'll show you In addition, when the variable display of the second special symbol is executed, steps S305 to S307 are executed by determining 15R probability change big hit at a higher rate than the case of executing the variable display of the first special symbol. The rate of executing 15 rounds of big hit game is high), and the abnormality determination means determines that the abnormality is based on the fact that the game medium has continuously passed through the second start area without passing through the first start area. It may be configured to make a determination (for example, a part of steps S252 to S255 in the game control microcomputer 560). According to such a configuration, it is possible to prevent an illegal act of intentionally passing the game medium through the advantageous second starting area.

(Means 3) The means 1 or means 2 includes a variable winning device (for example, a variable winning ball device 15) that can be changed to a state in which the game medium can easily pass through the starting area (for example, an open state), and the abnormality determining unit During the operation period of the variable winning device, the game control microcomputer 560 is configured not to be abnormal (for example, the game control microcomputer 560 executes step S1224 when Y in step S1222 and Y in step S1223). May be. According to such a configuration, it is possible to prevent wasteful use of unnecessary abnormality determination.

(Means 4) In any one of the means 1 to 3, a variable winning device (for example, a variable winning ball device 15) that can be changed to a state (for example, an open state) where the game medium easily passes through the starting area is provided. The variable winning device is provided in any one of the first starting region and the second starting region in the starting region (for example, provided in the second starting winning port 14), Regardless of whether the variable winning device is operating or not, an abnormality is determined based on the fact that the game medium has continuously passed through the starting area where the variable winning device is not provided (for example, the game control micro In steps S1211 to S1213, the computer 560 does not execute the processing corresponding to steps S1222 to S1224, so that the computer 560 is in the high base state or the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is being opened. Even to continue counting the first winning number counter, step S250, S251, S254, S255 to run) may be configured so. According to such a configuration, it is possible to perform necessary abnormality determination while preventing wasteful unnecessary abnormality determination.

It is the front view which looked at the pachinko game machine from the front. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating a distribution apparatus. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the form in which a game ball wins a 2nd start winning opening when the variable winning ball apparatus is controlled by the open state. It is a block diagram which shows the circuit structural example of a game control board (main board). It is a block diagram showing an example of circuit configuration of an effect control board, a lamp driver board and an audio output board. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of bit allocation of the output port in a game control means. It is a circuit diagram which shows the internal structure of a terminal board | substrate. It is a flowchart which shows the main process which CPU in a main board | substrate performs. It is a flowchart which shows a 4 ms timer interruption process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the variation pattern of the production | presentation symbol prepared beforehand. It is explanatory drawing which shows each random number. It is explanatory drawing which shows a big hit determination table, a small hit determination table, and a big hit type determination table. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the content of an effect control command. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the content of an effect control command. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the program of a special symbol process process. It is a flowchart which shows a starting port switch passage process. It is a flowchart which shows a starting port switch passage process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of a pending | holding specific area | region and a pending | holding storage buffer. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol normal process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol normal process. It is a flowchart which shows a fluctuation pattern setting process. It is a flowchart which shows a display result designation | designated command transmission process. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol change process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol stop process. It is a flowchart which shows a big hit end process. It is a flowchart which shows a normal symbol process process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the program of a special symbol display control process. It is a flowchart which shows a prize order abnormality notification process. It is a block diagram which shows the various signals output to a terminal board. It is a flowchart which shows an information output process. It is a flowchart which shows the presentation control main process which CPU for presentation control performs. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of a command reception buffer. It is a flowchart which shows a command analysis process. It is a flowchart which shows production control process processing. It is the front view which looked at the pachinko game machine in a modification from the front. It is a flowchart which shows the start port switch passage process in a modification.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. First, the overall configuration of a pachinko gaming machine 1 that is an example of a gaming machine will be described. FIG. 1 is a front view of the pachinko gaming machine 1 as seen from the front.

  The pachinko gaming machine 1 includes an outer frame (not shown) formed in a vertically long rectangular shape, and a game frame attached to the inside of the outer frame so as to be opened and closed. Further, the pachinko gaming machine 1 has a glass door frame 2 formed in a frame shape that is provided in the game frame so as to be opened and closed. The game frame includes a front frame (not shown) that can be opened and closed with respect to the outer frame, a mechanism plate (not shown) to which mechanism parts and the like are attached, and various parts (games to be described later) attached to them. A structure including the board 6).

  On the lower surface of the glass door frame 2 is a hitting ball supply tray (upper plate) 3. Under the hitting ball supply tray 3, there are provided a surplus ball receiving tray 4 for storing game balls that cannot be accommodated in the hitting ball supply tray 3, and a hitting operation handle (operation knob) 5 for firing the hitting ball. A game board 6 is detachably attached to the back surface of the glass door frame 2. The game board 6 is a structure including a plate-like body constituting the game board 6 and various components attached to the plate-like body. In addition, a game area 7 is formed on the front surface of the game board 6 in which a game ball that has been struck can flow down.

  The member that forms the extra ball tray (lower tray) 4 is configured in a stick shape (bar shape), for example, at a predetermined position on the front side of the upper surface of the lower tray main body (for example, the central portion of the lower tray). Is attached to the stick controller 122 that can be tilted in a plurality of directions (front and rear, left and right). It should be noted that the stick controller 122 has a predetermined operation, for example, by performing a push-pull operation with a predetermined operation finger (for example, an index finger) while the player holds the operation rod of the stick controller 122 with an operation hand (for example, the left hand). A trigger button 121 (see FIG. 5) capable of performing an instruction operation is provided, and a trigger sensor 125 (see FIG. 5) for detecting a predetermined instruction operation by a push-pull operation or the like on the trigger button 121 is provided inside the operation rod of the stick controller 122. 5) is built-in. Further, a tilt direction sensor unit 123 (see FIG. 5) for detecting a tilting operation with respect to the operating rod is provided in the lower pan body inside the stick controller 122 and the like. Further, the stick controller 122 incorporates a vibrator motor 126 (see FIG. 5) for causing the stick controller 122 to vibrate.

  The member that forms the hitting ball supply tray (upper plate) 3 is subjected to a predetermined instruction operation, for example, by a player pressing a predetermined position on the upper surface of the upper plate body (for example, above the stick controller 122). A possible push button 120 is provided. The push button 120 only needs to be configured to be able to detect a predetermined instruction operation such as a pressing operation from a player mechanically, electrically, or electromagnetically. A push sensor 124 (see FIG. 5) that detects the player's operation action performed on the push button 120 may be provided inside the main body of the upper plate at the position where the push button 120 is installed. In the configuration example shown in FIG. 1, the mounting positions of the push button 120 and the stick controller 122 are in a vertical positional relationship in the central portion of the upper plate and the lower plate. On the other hand, it is good also considering the attachment position of the push button 120 and the stick controller 122 as the position approached to either right or left in the upper plate and the lower plate, maintaining the vertical relationship. Alternatively, the mounting position of the push button 120 and the stick controller 122 is not in the vertical relationship, but may be in the horizontal relationship, for example.

  An effect display device 9 composed of a liquid crystal display device (LCD) is provided near the center of the game area 7. The display screen of the effect display device 9 includes an effect symbol display area for performing variable display of the effect symbol in synchronization with the variable display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol. Therefore, the effect display device 9 corresponds to a variable display device that performs variable display of effect symbols. The effect symbol display area includes a symbol display area for variably displaying, for example, three decorative (effect) effect symbols of “left”, “middle”, and “right”. The symbol display area includes “left”, “middle”, and “right” symbol display areas, but the position of the symbol display area does not have to be fixed on the display screen of the effect display device 9. Three areas of the display area may be separated. The effect display device 9 is controlled by an effect control microcomputer mounted on the effect control board. When the first special symbol display 8a is executing variable display of the first special symbol, the effect control microcomputer causes the effect display device 9 to execute the effect display along with the variable display, and the second special symbol display 8a executes the second special display. When the variable display of the second special symbol is executed on the symbol display 8b, the effect display is executed by the effect display device 9 along with the variable display, so that the progress of the game can be easily grasped. .

  Further, in the effect display device 9, symbols other than the symbol that will be the final stop symbol (for example, the middle symbol of the left and right middle symbols) have continued for a predetermined time, and the jackpot symbol (for example, the left middle right symbol is aligned with the same symbol) Stops, swings, scales, or deforms in a state that matches the symbol combination), or multiple symbols fluctuate synchronously in the same symbol, or the position of the display symbol is switched Thus, an effect performed in a state where the possibility of occurrence of a big hit (hereinafter, these states are referred to as reach states) before the final result is displayed is referred to as reach effect. Further, the reach state and its state are referred to as a reach mode. Furthermore, variable display including reach production is called reach variable display. And when the display result of the symbol variably displayed on the effect display device 9 is not a big hit symbol, it becomes “out” and the variation display state ends. A player plays a game while enjoying how to generate a big hit.

  In the upper right part of the display screen of the effect display device 9, there are provided fourth symbol display areas 9c and 9d for displaying a fourth symbol after the effect symbol, a special symbol described later, and a normal symbol. In this embodiment, a fourth symbol display area 9c for the first special symbol in which the variation display of the fourth symbol for the first special symbol is performed in synchronization with the variation display of the first special symbol described later, There is provided a fourth symbol display area 9d for the second special symbol in which the variation display of the fourth symbol for the second special symbol is performed in synchronization with the variation display of the special symbol.

  In this embodiment, the variation display of the effect symbol is executed in synchronization with the variation display of the special symbol (however, to be precise, the variation display of the effect symbol is varied on the effect control microcomputer 100 side). This is done by measuring the variation time recognized based on the pattern command.) When performing an effect using the effect display device 9, for example, the effect content including the change display of the effect symbol disappears from the screen for a moment. There are a variety of effects such as effects being performed and effects in which movable objects shield all or part of the screen. For this reason, even if the display screen on the effect display device 9 is viewed, it may be difficult to recognize whether or not the current variation display is in progress. Therefore, in this embodiment, whether or not the state of the present variation is being displayed by confirming the state of the fourth symbol by further displaying the variation of the fourth symbol on a part of the display screen of the effect display device 9. It is possible to reliably recognize whether or not. Note that the 4th symbol is always variably displayed with a constant operation and does not disappear from the screen or is not shielded by a shielding object, so that it can always be visually recognized.

  The 4th symbol for the first special symbol and the 4th symbol for the 2nd special symbol may be collectively referred to as the 4th symbol, and the 4th symbol display area 9c for the 1st special symbol and the 2nd special symbol The 4th symbol display area 9d for symbols may be collectively referred to as a 4th symbol display area.

  The variation (variable display) of the fourth symbol is realized by continuing the state where the fourth symbol display areas 9c and 9d are repeatedly turned on and off at a predetermined time interval in a predetermined display color (for example, blue). . The variable display of the first special symbol on the first special symbol display unit 8a is synchronized with the variable display of the fourth symbol for the first special symbol in the fourth symbol display area 9c for the first special symbol. The variable display of the second special symbol on the second special symbol display 8b is synchronized with the variable display of the fourth symbol for the second special symbol in the fourth symbol display area 9d for the second special symbol. Synchronous means that the variable display start time and end time are the same, and the variable display period is the same.

  When the big hit symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a, the display color reminiscent of the big hit in the fourth symbol display area 9c for the first special symbol (a display color different from the loss. Sometimes it is displayed in blue, but it is displayed in red when it is a big hit, and when the big hit symbol is stopped on the second special symbol display 8b, the fourth symbol display area for the second special symbol is displayed. A display color reminiscent of a big hit at 9d (a display color different from an outlier. For example, it is displayed in blue when out of place, but red in a big hit.

  In this embodiment, the case where the 4th symbol display area is provided on a part of the display screen of the effect display device 9 is shown, but a light emitter such as a lamp or LED is used separately from the effect display device 9. Thus, the fourth symbol display area may be realized. In this case, for example, the variation (variable display) of the fourth symbol may be realized by continuing the state in which the two LEDs are alternately lit, and any of the two LEDs is stopped. Whether or not the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed may be indicated depending on whether or not it is displayed.

  On the right side of the effect display device 9, a first special symbol display (first variable display unit) 8a for variably displaying the first special symbol as identification information is provided. In this embodiment, the first special symbol display 8a is realized by a simple and small display (for example, 7 segment LED) capable of variably displaying numbers 0 to 9. In other words, the first special symbol display 8a is configured to variably display numbers (or symbols) from 0 to 9. Further, on the right side of the effect display device 9 (next to the right of the first special symbol display 8a), a second special symbol display (second variable display unit) 8b for variably displaying the second special symbol as identification information. Is also provided. The second special symbol display 8b is realized by a simple and small display (for example, 7 segment LED) capable of variably displaying numbers 0 to 9. That is, the second special symbol display 8b is configured to variably display numbers (or symbols) from 0 to 9.

  The small display is formed in a square shape, for example. In this embodiment, the type of the first special symbol and the type of the second special symbol are the same (for example, both 0 to 9), but the types may be different. Further, the first special symbol display 8a and the second special symbol display 8b may be configured to variably display numbers (or two-digit symbols) of, for example, 00 to 99, for example.

  Hereinafter, the first special symbol and the second special symbol may be collectively referred to as a special symbol, and the first special symbol indicator 8a and the second special symbol indicator 8b are collectively referred to as a special symbol indicator (variable display unit). There are things to do.

  Although this embodiment shows a case where two special symbol indicators 8a and 8b are provided, the gaming machine may be provided with only one special symbol indicator.

  The variable display of the first special symbol is after the first start condition, which is the variable display execution condition, is satisfied (in this embodiment, the technical ball passes through the first start winning opening 13 (including winning)). The variable display start condition (for example, when the first reserved memory number is not 0, the variable display of the first special symbol and the second special symbol is not executed, and the big hit game is executed) The display result (stop symbol) is derived and displayed when the variable display time (fluctuation time) elapses. In addition, the variable display of the second special symbol satisfies the second start condition, which is the execution condition of the variable display (in this embodiment, the game ball passes the second start winning opening 14 or the third start winning opening 17 ( (Including winning a prize)) after the variable display start condition (for example, when the second reserved memory number is not 0 and the variable display of the first special symbol and the second special symbol is not executed) And a state where no big hit game is executed) is established, and when the variable display time (fluctuation time) elapses, a display result (stop symbol) is derived and displayed. Note that the passing of a game ball means that the game ball has passed through a predetermined area such as a prize opening or a gate, and that includes a game ball entering (winning) a prize opening. It is. Deriving and displaying the display result is to finally stop and display a symbol (an example of identification information).

  Below the effect display device 9, there is provided a distribution device 200 for distributing the inflowing game balls. Further, below the effect display device 9, a first start winning opening 13 and a second starting winning opening 14 are provided so as to be arranged side by side. The game ball won in the first start winning opening 13 is guided to the back of the game board 6 and detected by the first start opening switch 13a. Also, the game ball that has won the second start winning opening (second start opening) 14 is guided to the back of the game board 6 and detected by the second start opening switch 14a.

  The second start winning opening 14 is provided with a variable winning ball apparatus 15 that can be changed between an open state and a closed release state. The variable winning ball device 15 is opened by a solenoid 16. When the variable winning ball device 15 is in the open state, it becomes easier for the game ball to start and win the second starting winning port 14, which is advantageous to the player. In this embodiment, even when the variable winning ball device 15 is in the closed and released state, the second start winning port 14 is won via the sorting device 200 which is difficult to win compared to the open state. Although the case where it is configured so as to be possible is shown, it may be configured so that the start winning prize can be made at the second start winning opening 14 only when the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is in the open state.

  In this embodiment, as described later, when the gaming state is a probable change state (in this embodiment, it is controlled to a high probability state and also to a short time state (high base state)). The frequency at which the variable winning ball device 15 is opened is increased, and it becomes easier to start a winning at the second starting winning port 14. Therefore, in this embodiment, when the gaming state is controlled to be in a probable state, the player performs a launching operation so as to launch a game ball aiming at the right side of the gaming area 7 (so-called right-handed). Is more advantageous. When the gaming state is controlled to the probability changing state, for example, it is desirable to display on the effect display device 9 such as “Aim right”!

  Further, a third start winning opening 17 is provided above the distribution device 200 and on the lower stage of the effect display device 9. The game ball won in the third start winning opening 17 is guided to the back of the game board 6 and detected by the third start opening switch 17a.

  Hereinafter, the first start winning port 13, the second start winning port 14, and the third start winning port 17 may be collectively referred to as a start winning port or a starting port.

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, the variable winning ball apparatus 15 that opens and closes only the second start winning opening 14 is provided. Any of the start winning ports 14 may be provided with a variable winning ball device that performs an opening / closing operation.

  In addition, even if the gaming state is a probability change state or a short time state (high base state), if the gaming machine has a specification that consistently aims at the left side of the gaming area 7 and launches a game ball, The variable winning ball device 15 may be provided only at the first start winning opening 13.

  Above the second special symbol display 8b, a second special display comprising four indicators for displaying the number of effective winning balls that have entered the second start winning opening 14 and the third starting winning opening 17, that is, the second reserved memory number. A symbol holding storage display 18b is provided. The second special symbol storage memory display 18b increases the number of indicators to be lit by 1 every time there is an effective start winning. Then, each time the variable display on the second special symbol display 8b is started, the number of indicators to be turned on is reduced by one.

  Further, above the second special symbol hold memory display 18b, the number of effective winning balls that have entered the first start winning opening 13, that is, the first hold memory number (the hold memory is also referred to as start memory or start prize memory). ) Is displayed, a first special symbol reservation storage display 18a is provided. The first special symbol storage memory indicator 18a increases the number of indicators to be lit by 1 each time there is an effective start winning. Then, each time the variable display on the first special symbol display 8a is started, the number of indicators to be turned on is reduced by one.

  In addition, at the lower part of the display screen of the effect display device 9, there is provided a total pending storage display unit 18c for displaying the total number (total number of pending pending storage) that is the sum of the first reserved memory count and the second reserved memory count. ing. As described above, in this embodiment, the total pending storage display unit 18c that displays the total number is provided, so that it is easy to grasp the total number of execution conditions that have not met the variable display start condition. can do. In this embodiment, in the total hold storage display unit 18c, the first hold storage and the second hold storage are displayed side by side in the order of winning in the first start winning opening 13 and the second starting winning opening 14, It is displayed in a manner capable of recognizing whether it is the first reserved memory or the second reserved memory (for example, the first reserved memory is displayed in red and the second reserved memory is displayed in blue). In addition, it replaces with the total pending | holding memory | storage display part 18c, and it may comprise so that the 1st pending | holding memory display part which displays the 1st pending | holding memory number and the 2nd pending memory display part which displays the 2nd pending memory number may be provided. Good.

  The effect display device 9 is for decoration (for effects) during the variable display time of the first special symbol by the first special symbol display 8a and during the variable display time of the second special symbol by the second special symbol display 8b. A variable display of the effect symbol as the symbol is performed. The variable display of the first special symbol on the first special symbol display 8a and the variable display of the effect symbol on the effect display device 9 are synchronized. Further, the variable display of the second special symbol on the second special symbol display 8b and the variable display of the effect symbol on the effect display device 9 are synchronized. Further, when the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a and when the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed on the second special symbol display 8b, the effect display device 9 reminds the jackpot The combination of is stopped and displayed.

  As shown in FIG. 1, a special variable winning ball apparatus 20 that forms a large winning opening is provided below the first starting winning opening 13 and the second starting winning opening 14. The special variable winning ball apparatus 20 includes an opening / closing plate, and when the specific display result (big hit symbol) is derived and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a, and the specific display result (big hit symbol) on the second special symbol display 8b. When the open / close plate is controlled to be open by the solenoid 21 in the specific game state (big hit game state) that occurs when the symbol is derived and displayed, the big winning opening serving as the winning area is opened. The game ball that has won the big winning opening is detected by the count switch 23.

  On the left side of the effect display device 9, a normal symbol display 10 for variably displaying normal symbols is provided. In this embodiment, the normal symbol display 10 is realized by a simple and small display (for example, 7 segment LED) capable of variably displaying numbers 0 to 9. That is, the normal symbol display 10 is configured to variably display numbers (or symbols) from 0 to 9. Moreover, the small display is formed in, for example, a square shape. Note that the normal symbol display 10 may be configured to variably display a number (or a two-digit symbol) of, for example, 00 to 99. In addition, the normal symbol display 10 is not limited to a 7-segment LED or the like, for example, a display capable of lighting a predetermined symbol display (for example, a decoration lamp capable of alternately lighting and displaying “O” and “X”). It may be comprised.

  When the game ball passes through the gates 32 provided on the left and right sides of the game area 7 and is detected by the gate switch 32a, the variable display of the normal symbol display 10 is started. When the stop symbol on the normal symbol display 10 is a predetermined symbol (a winning symbol, for example, a symbol “7”), the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is opened for a predetermined number of times. That is, the state of the variable winning ball device 15 is a state that is advantageous from a disadvantageous state for the player when the normal symbol is a stop symbol (a state in which the game ball is likely to win the second start winning port 14). To change. In the vicinity of the normal symbol display 10, a normal symbol holding storage display 41 having a display unit with four LEDs for displaying the number of winning balls that have passed through the gate 32 is provided. Each time there is a game ball passing through the gate 32, that is, every time a game ball is detected by the gate switch 32a, the normal symbol storage memory display 41 increases the number of LEDs to be turned on by one. Each time variable display on the normal symbol display 10 is started, the number of LEDs to be lit is reduced by one. In addition, a probability variation state in which the probability of being determined to be a big hit compared to the normal state is high (a state in which the probability of being determined to be a big hit as a result of fluctuation display of special symbols is increased compared to the normal state). Then, the probability that the stop symbol in the normal symbol display 10 becomes a winning symbol is increased, and the opening time and the number of times of opening of the variable winning ball device 15 are increased. In this embodiment, when controlled to the probable variation state, it is also controlled to a short time state (game state in which the special symbol variable display time is shortened) in which the symbol variation time is shortened.

  At the lower part of the game board 6, there is an out port 26 into which a hit ball (out ball) that has not won a prize is taken. In addition, four speakers 27 that utter sound effects and sounds as predetermined sound outputs are provided on the upper left and right and lower left and right outside the game area 7. On the outer periphery of the game area 7, a frame LED 28 provided on the front frame is provided.

  In the gaming machine, a ball striking device (not shown) that drives a driving motor in response to a player operating the batting operation handle 5 and uses the rotational force of the driving motor to launch a gaming ball to the gaming area 7. ) Is provided. A game ball launched from the ball striking device enters the game area 7 through a ball striking rail (not shown) formed in a circular shape so as to surround the game area 7, and then descends the game area 7. When the game ball enters the first start winning opening 13 and is detected by the first start opening switch 13a, if the variable display of the first special symbol can be started (for example, the variable display of the special symbol ends, 1), the variable display (variation) of the first special symbol is started on the first special symbol display 8a, and the variable display of the effect symbol is started on the effect display device 9. That is, the variable display of the first special symbol and the effect symbol corresponds to winning in the first start winning opening 13. If the variable display of the first special symbol cannot be started, the first reserved memory number is increased by 1 on the condition that the first reserved memory number has not reached the upper limit value.

  If the game ball enters the second start winning port 14 or the third start winning port 17 and is detected by the second start port switch 14a or the third start port switch 17a, the variable special symbol display can be started. If, for example, the variable display of the special symbol is finished and the second start condition is satisfied, the variable display (fluctuation) of the second special symbol is started on the second special symbol display 8b, and the effect display is performed. In the device 9, the variable display of the effect symbol is started. That is, the variable display of the second special symbol and the effect symbol corresponds to winning in the second start winning port 14 and the third starting winning port 17. If the variable display of the second special symbol cannot be started, the second reserved memory number is increased by 1 on condition that the second reserved memory number has not reached the upper limit value.

  In this embodiment, when a big hit (15R probability change big hit, 7R probability change big hit, sudden probability change big hit) is made, the game state is shifted to a high probability state (probability change state), and the game ball becomes easy to start winning. Transition to the high base state, which is a gaming state controlled so that the variable display execution conditions in the special symbol indicators 8a and 8b and the effect display device 9 are easily established (in this embodiment, the time-short state ). In the case of the high base state, for example, the frequency at which the variable winning ball device 15 is in the open state is increased or the time in which the variable winning ball device 15 is in the open state is extended compared to the case in which the high base state is not. It becomes easier to win a start.

  Instead of extending the time for the variable winning ball apparatus 15 to be in the open state (also referred to as the open extended state), the normal symbol display unit 10 shifts to a normal symbol probability changing state in which the probability that the stop symbol in the normal symbol display unit 10 becomes a winning symbol is increased. Depending on the situation, the high base state may be entered. When the stop symbol on the normal symbol display 10 becomes a predetermined symbol (winning symbol), the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is opened for a predetermined number of times. In this case, by performing the transition control to the normal symbol probability changing state, the probability that the stop symbol in the normal symbol display 10 becomes a winning symbol is increased, and the frequency at which the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is opened is increased. Therefore, if the normal symbol probability changing state is entered, the opening time and the number of opening times of the variable winning ball device 15 are increased, and a state where it is easy to start a winning (high base state) is achieved. That is, the opening time and the number of times of opening of the variable winning ball device 15 can be increased when the stop symbol of the normal symbol is a winning symbol or the stop symbol of the special symbol is a probabilistic symbol. It changes to an advantageous state (a state where it is easy to win a start). It should be noted that increasing the number of times of opening is a concept including changing from a closed release state to an open state.

  Moreover, you may transfer to a high base state by shifting to the normal symbol time short state where the fluctuation time (variable display period) of the normal symbol in the normal symbol display 10 is shortened. In the normal symbol short-time state, the variation time of the normal symbol is shortened, so that the frequency of starting the variation of the normal symbol increases, and as a result, the frequency of hitting the normal symbol increases. Therefore, when the frequency that the normal symbol is won increases, the frequency that the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is in the open state is increased, and the start winning state is easily set (high base state).

  In addition, the change time of special symbols and production symbols will be shortened by shifting to the short time state when the variation time (variable display period) of special symbols and production symbols is shortened. The frequency of being played (in other words, the digestion of the reserved memory becomes faster), and the situation where an invalid start prize is generated can be reduced. Therefore, an effective start winning is likely to occur, and as a result, the possibility of a big hit game being increased.

  Furthermore, by making transitions to all the states shown above (open extended state, normal symbol probability change state, normal symbol short time state, and special symbol short time state), it will be easier to win a start (shift to a high base state). May be. In addition, it is easier to win a start (high base) by shifting to any one of the above states (open extended state, normal symbol probability changing state, normal symbol short time state, and special symbol short time state). Transition to a state). In addition, it is easier to win a start by shifting to any one of the above states (open extended state, normal symbol probability changing state, normal symbol short time state, and special symbol short time state). You may make it move to a base state.

  Next, the distribution device 200 will be described. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the sorting apparatus 200. As shown in FIG. 2, an inflow port 201 into which a game ball can flow is provided at the top of the sorting apparatus 200. In addition, a sorting member 202 is provided inside the sorting device 200 for sorting the game balls that have flowed into the sorting device 200 from the inlet 201 into either the left passage 203 or the right passage 204. Further, at the lower part of the sorting device 200, a left outlet 205 from which the game ball that has passed through the left passage 203 can flow out of the sorting device 200, and a game ball that has passed through the right passage 204 can flow out of the sorting device 200. And a right outlet 206 is provided.

  In the example shown in FIG. 2A, a state in which the right passage 204 in the sorting apparatus 200 is shielded by the sorting member 202 and a game ball can pass through the left passage 203 is shown. When the game ball flows into the sorting device 200 from the inlet 201 in the state shown in FIG. 2A, the gaming ball that flows in from the inlet 201 is left by the sorting member 200 as shown in FIG. It is distributed to the passage 203, passes through the left passage 203, and flows out from the left outlet 205. Since the first start winning opening 13 is positioned below the left outlet 205, the game ball that has flowed out of the left outlet 205 wins the first start winning opening 13.

  Further, when the game ball passes through the left passage 203, the game ball hits the blade portion 202a provided in the rotation shaft portion of the sorting member 202, and the blade portion 202a is pushed by the weight of the game ball, As shown in FIGS. 2 (a) and 2 (b), the sorting member 202 changes from a state of being tilted to the right side to a state of being tilted to the left side. With such a change, as shown in FIG. 2B, the left passage 203 in the sorting apparatus 200 is shielded by the sorting member 202, and the game ball can pass through the right passage 204.

  Next, in such a state, as shown in FIG. 2 (c), when the game ball flows into the sorting device 200 from the inflow port 201, it flows in from the inflow port 201 as shown in FIG. 2 (d). The game balls are distributed to the right passage 204 by the distribution member 200, pass through the right passage 204, and flow out from the right outlet 206. Since the second start winning opening 14 is located below the right outlet 206, the game ball that has flowed out of the right outlet 206 wins the second start winning opening 14.

  Further, when the game ball passes the right passage 204, the game ball hits the blade portion 202a provided in the rotation shaft portion of the sorting member 204, and the blade portion 202a is pushed by the weight of the game ball, As shown in FIGS. 2 (c) and 2 (d), the sorting member 202 changes from a state of falling to the left side to a state of falling to the right side. With such a change, as shown in FIG. 2D, the right passage 204 in the sorting apparatus 200 is shielded by the sorting member 202, and the game ball can pass through the left passage 203.

  By performing the operation shown in FIG. 2, in this embodiment, the game balls that have flowed into the sorting device 200 by the sorting member 202 are alternately distributed to the left passage 203 and the right passage 204, and the first start It is possible to win alternately at the winning opening 13 and the second start winning opening 14.

  On the other hand, in this embodiment, regardless of the state of the sorting member 202 of the sorting apparatus 200, the game ball wins the second start winning opening 14 even when the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is controlled to the open state. Is possible. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram for explaining a mode in which a game ball wins the second start winning opening 14 when the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is controlled to be in the open state. As shown in FIG. 3, the right passage 204 in the sorting apparatus 200 is shielded by the sorting member 202, and the game ball can pass through the left passage 203 (the right passage 204 cannot pass or is difficult to pass). Even if it is, if the variable winning ball device 15 is controlled to be in the open state, the game ball can enter from the right side of the sorting device 200 and win the second start winning port 14.

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 3, the case where the blade components of the variable winning ball device 15 are provided on both the left and right sides of the second start winning port 14 is shown. When the player enters the second start winning opening 14 without going through the sorting device 200 when the player is in the open state, the game ball enters from the right side of the sorting device 200 and wins as shown in FIG. In most cases, the left wing component of the variable winning ball apparatus 15 may be omitted. However, if this is done, there may be a case where a game ball that has entered from the right side of the sorting apparatus 200 cannot pass through the second start winning opening 14, and therefore, from the right side of the sorting apparatus 200. The variable winning ball device 15 is open by providing a shielding portion (for example, a synthetic resin protrusion or nail) on the left side of the opening of the second start winning opening for stopping the momentum of the game ball that has entered. The second starting winning opening 14 may be configured such that a game ball wins a prize.

  Further, in this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the first passage winning opening 13 and the second starting winning opening 14 are provided below the distribution device 200, whereby the left passage The game balls distributed to 203 win the first start winning opening 13 at about 100%, and the game balls distributed to the right passage 204 win about the second start winning opening 14 at about 100%. The game balls distributed to the left passage 203 and the right passage 204 may be spilled out of the sorting device 200. Even if the game balls are distributed to the left passage 203 and the right passage 204, the first start winning opening 13 is not necessarily provided. Alternatively, the second start winning opening 14 may not be won. For example, in FIG. 2 and FIG. 3, the game ball is configured to fall directly below the left outlet 205 and the right outlet 206, but a bottom member is provided at the left outlet 205 and the right outlet 206 to provide a player. The game ball is configured to flow to the first start winning opening 13 and the second starting winning opening 14 after being guided to the far side as viewed from the side, and an opening is provided on the outer side surface of the left passage 203 and the right passage 204. Thus, a part of the game balls distributed to the left passage 203 and the right passage 204 may spill out of the sorting device 200 from the opening and do not win the first start winning opening 13 or the second starting winning opening 14. You may comprise.

  In this embodiment, the first start winning port 13 and the second start winning port 14 are provided outside the sorting apparatus 200 (specifically, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3) Although the case where it is provided below the distribution device 200 is shown, the first start winning port 13 and the second start winning port 14 may be included in the distribution device 200.

  Moreover, in this embodiment, although the case where the two passages 203 and 204 were provided in the distribution apparatus 200 was shown, not only when it is two, but three or more passages may be provided. . In this case, for example, a configuration may be adopted in which a plurality of paths that can be awarded exist in either one or both of the first start winning opening 13 and the second starting winning opening 14.

  Moreover, in this embodiment, although the distribution member 202 of the distribution apparatus 200 showed the case where it switches to right and left physically with the dead weight of a game ball, for example, the solenoid and motor for driving the distribution member 202 are used. The distribution member 202 may be alternately switched by control from the game control microcomputer 560.

  On the contrary, in this embodiment, the variable winning ball device 15 provided in the second start winning port 14 is shown to open and close by driving and controlling the solenoid 16, but the variable winning ball is shown. A mechanism similar to the distribution member 202 is applied to the device 15 so as to perform an opening / closing operation by the weight of the game ball. For example, the variable winning ball device 15 is physically controlled without being controlled by the game control microcomputer 560. It may be configured to open and close. In this case, for example, a sensor (for example, an optical sensor) for detecting the open state of the variable winning ball device 15 is provided, and whether or not the variable winning ball device 15 is in an open state based on an input from the sensor. It may be determined.

  FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the circuit configuration of the main board (game control board) 31. FIG. 4 also shows a payout control board 37, an effect control board 80, and the like. A game control microcomputer (corresponding to game control means) 560 for controlling the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to a program is mounted on the main board 31. The game control microcomputer 560 includes a ROM 54 for storing a game control (game progress control) program and the like, a RAM 55 as storage means used as a work memory, a CPU 56 for performing control operations in accordance with the program, and an I / O port unit 57. including. In this embodiment, the ROM 54 and the RAM 55 are built in the game control microcomputer 560. That is, the game control microcomputer 560 is a one-chip microcomputer. The one-chip microcomputer only needs to incorporate at least the CPU 56 and the RAM 55, and the ROM 54 may be external or built-in. The I / O port unit 57 may be externally attached. The game control microcomputer 560 further includes a random number circuit 503 that generates hardware random numbers (random numbers generated by the hardware circuit).

  The RAM 55 is a backup RAM as a non-volatile storage means, part or all of which is backed up by a backup power supply created on the power supply board. That is, even if the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped, a part or all of the contents of the RAM 55 is stored for a predetermined period (until the capacitor as the backup power supply is discharged and the backup power supply cannot be supplied). In particular, at least data (special symbol process flag, probability variation flag, etc.) corresponding to the game state, that is, the control state of the game control means, and data indicating the number of unpaid prize balls are stored in the backup RAM. The data corresponding to the control state of the game control means is data necessary for restoring the control state before the occurrence of a power failure or the like based on the data when the power is restored after a power failure or the like occurs. Further, data corresponding to the control state and data indicating the number of unpaid prize balls are defined as data indicating the progress state of the game. In this embodiment, it is assumed that the entire RAM 55 is backed up.

  In the game control microcomputer 560, the CPU 56 executes control in accordance with the program stored in the ROM 54, so that the game control microcomputer 560 (or CPU 56) executes (or performs processing) hereinafter. Specifically, the CPU 56 executes control according to a program. The same applies to microcomputers mounted on substrates other than the main substrate 31.

  The random number circuit 503 is a hardware circuit that is used to generate a random number for determination to determine whether or not to win a jackpot based on a display result of variable symbol special display. The random number circuit 503 updates numerical data in accordance with a set update rule within a numerical range in which an initial value (for example, 0) and an upper limit value (for example, 65535) are set, and starts at a random timing Based on the fact that the winning time is the reading (extraction) of the numerical data, it has a random number generation function in which the numerical data to be read becomes a random value.

  An input driver circuit 58 for supplying detection signals from the gate switch 32a, the first start port switch 13a, the second start port switch 14a, the third start port switch 17a and the count switch 23 to the game control microcomputer 560 is also mainly used. It is mounted on the substrate 31. The main board also includes an output circuit 59 for driving the solenoid 16 for opening and closing the variable winning ball device 15 and the solenoid 21 for opening and closing the special variable winning ball device 20 that forms a big winning opening in accordance with a command from the game control microcomputer 560. 31.

  In addition, the game control microcomputer 560 includes a first special symbol display 8a, a second special symbol display 8b that variably displays special symbols, a normal symbol display 10 that variably displays normal symbols, and a first special symbol hold memory. Display control of the display 18a, the second special symbol storage memory display 18b, and the normal symbol storage memory display 41 is performed.

  An information output circuit 64 that outputs information output signals such as jackpot information indicating the occurrence of a jackpot gaming state to an external device such as a hall computer via the terminal board 160 is also mounted on the main board 31.

  In this embodiment, the effect control means (configured by the effect control microcomputer) mounted on the effect control board 80 instructs the effect contents from the game control microcomputer 560 via the relay board 77. An effect control command is received, and display control of the effect display device 9 for variably displaying effect symbols is performed.

  The effect control means mounted on the effect control board 80 controls the display of the frame LED 28 provided on the frame side via the lamp driver board 35 and from the speaker 27 via the audio output board 70. Control the sound output.

  The effect control means is also connected to a trigger sensor 125, a tilt direction sensor unit 123 provided in the stick controller 122, a vibrator motor 126, and a push sensor 124 provided in the push button 120, as will be described later. However, the illustration is omitted in FIG.

  FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating a circuit configuration example of the relay board 77, the effect control board 80, the lamp driver board 35, and the audio output board 70. In the example shown in FIG. 5, the lamp driver board 35 and the audio output board 70 are not equipped with a microcomputer, but may be equipped with a microcomputer. Further, without providing the lamp driver board 35 and the audio output board 70, only the effect control board 80 may be provided for effect control.

  The effect control board 80 includes an effect control CPU 101 and an effect control microcomputer 100 including a RAM for storing information related to effects such as effect symbol process flags. The RAM may be externally attached. In this embodiment, the RAM in the production control microcomputer 100 is not backed up. In the effect control board 80, the effect control CPU 101 operates in accordance with a program stored in a built-in or external ROM (not shown), and receives a capture signal from the main board 31 input via the relay board 77 ( In response to the (effect control INT signal), an effect control command is received via the input driver 102 and the input port 103. Further, the effect control CPU 101 causes the VDP (video display processor) 109 to perform display control of the effect display device 9 based on the effect control command.

  In this embodiment, a VDP 109 that performs display control of the effect display device 9 in cooperation with the effect control microcomputer 100 is mounted on the effect control board 80. The VDP 109 has an address space independent of the production control microcomputer 100, and maps a VRAM therein. VRAM is a buffer memory for developing image data. Then, the VDP 109 outputs the image data in the VRAM to the effect display device 9 via the frame memory.

  The effect control CPU 101 outputs to the VDP 109 a command for reading out necessary data from a CGROM (not shown) in accordance with the received effect control command. The CGROM stores character image data and moving image data displayed on the effect display device 9, specifically, a person, characters, figures, symbols (including effect symbols), and background image data in advance. ROM. The VDP 109 reads image data from the CGROM in response to the instruction from the effect control CPU 101. The VDP 109 executes display control based on the read image data.

  The effect control command and the effect control INT signal are first input to the input driver 102 on the effect control board 80. The input driver 102 passes the signal input from the relay board 77 only in the direction toward the inside of the effect control board 80 (does not pass the signal in the direction from the inside of the effect control board 80 to the relay board 77). It is also a unidirectional circuit as a regulating means.

  As a signal direction regulating means, the signal inputted from the main board 31 is allowed to pass through the relay board 77 only in the direction toward the effect control board 80 (the signal is not passed in the direction from the effect control board 80 to the relay board 77). The unidirectional circuit 74 is mounted. For example, a diode or a transistor is used as the unidirectional circuit. FIG. 5 illustrates a diode. A unidirectional circuit is provided for each signal. Furthermore, since the effect control command and the effect control INT signal are output from the main board 31 via the output port 571 that is a unidirectional circuit, the signal from the relay board 77 toward the inside of the main board 31 is restricted. That is, the signal from the relay board 77 does not enter the inside of the main board 31 (the game control microcomputer 560 side). The output port 571 is a part of the I / O port unit 57 shown in FIG. Further, a signal driver circuit that is a unidirectional circuit may be further provided outside the output port 571 (on the relay board 77 side).

  In addition, the effect control CPU 101 inputs an operation detection signal as an information signal indicating that the player's operation action on the trigger button 121 of the stick controller 122 has been detected from the trigger sensor 125 via the input port 106. Further, the effect control CPU 101 inputs an operation detection signal as an information signal indicating that a player's operation action on the push button 120 has been detected from the push sensor 124 via the input port 106. In addition, the production control CPU 101 inputs an operation detection signal as an information signal indicating that the player's operation action with respect to the operation rod of the stick controller 122 has been detected from the tilt direction sensor unit 123 via the input port 106. . Further, the effect control CPU 101 outputs a drive signal to the vibrator motor 126 via the output port 105 to cause the stick controller 122 to vibrate.

  Further, the effect control CPU 101 outputs a signal for driving the LED to the lamp driver board 35 via the output port 105. Further, the production control CPU 101 outputs sound number data to the audio output board 70 via the output port 104.

  In the lamp driver board 35, a signal for driving the LED is input to the LED driver 352 via the input driver 351. The LED driver 352 supplies current to the light emitter (in this example, the frame LED 28) based on a signal for driving the LED.

  In the voice output board 70, the sound number data is input to the voice synthesis IC 703 via the input driver 702. The voice synthesizing IC 703 generates voice or sound effect according to the sound number data and outputs it to the amplifier circuit 705. The amplification circuit 705 outputs an audio signal obtained by amplifying the output level of the speech synthesis IC 703 to a level corresponding to the volume set by the volume 706 to the speaker 27. The voice data ROM 704 stores control data corresponding to the sound number data. The control data corresponding to the sound number data is a collection of data showing the output form of the sound effect or sound in a time series in a predetermined period (for example, the changing period of the effect design).

  FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of output port assignment in the game control means. As shown in FIG. 6, a payout control signal (in this example, a connection signal) transmitted to the payout control board 37 is output from the output port 0. Further, a solenoid (large winning port door solenoid) 21 for opening and closing the variable winning ball device 20 for opening and closing the big winning port, and a solenoid (normal electric accessory solenoid) 16 for opening and closing the variable winning ball device 15 are driven. The signal is also output from output port 0.

  In addition, various information output signals, that is, information related to control (for example, 1 symbol determination signal, start port signal, jackpot, etc.) from the output port 1 to the external device (for example, hall computer) via the terminal board 160. 1 signal, 2 jackpots, 3 jackpots, time-short signal, winning signal, security signal) are output. In this embodiment, prize ball information (a signal outputted every time ten prize ball payouts are detected) is also outputted to an external device via the terminal board 160. In this case, on the payout control board 37 side, a prize ball payout is detected, and prize ball information is input to the main board 31. The prize ball information input to the main board 31 is output to the outside via the terminal board 160 via the main board 31 as it is without passing through the game control microcomputer 560. The prize ball information input to the main board 31 may be output to the outside via the terminal board 160 after temporarily passing through the game control microcomputer 560.

  Note that signals output to the outside via the terminal board 160 are not limited to those shown in this embodiment. For example, a door opening signal indicating that the gaming frame is in an open state, a prize ball signal 1 (a signal that is output every time one prize ball payout is detected), a gaming machine error status signal (a gaming machine is in an error state ( In this example, a signal indicating that the ball is out of error state or full tank error state) and a high-accuracy medium signal indicating that the probability variation state (high probability state) is also output to the external device via the terminal board 160. You may make it do. In this case, on the payout control board 37 side, it is also detected that the gaming frame is in an open state, a prize ball payout, and an error state of the gaming machine, and the door opening signal, the prize ball signal 1, and the gaming machine error status signal are the main board. 31. The door opening signal, the prize ball signal 1, and the gaming machine error state signal input to the main board 31 are not transmitted through the game control microcomputer 560 but directly passed through the main board 31 to the terminal board 160. Output externally. Also in this case, the door opening signal, the prize ball signal 1 and the gaming machine error state signal input to the main board 31 pass through the gaming control microcomputer 560 once and then externally output via the terminal board 160. You may be made to do.

  Further, when the gaming machine is configured to include two special symbol indicators 8a and 8b as shown in this embodiment, a symbol determination frequency signal of 1 is used as a symbol determination frequency signal for notifying the number of fluctuations of the special symbol. In addition, the symbol determination number 2 signal may be output to the outside via the terminal board 160. In this case, for example, the symbol determination frequency 2 signal is externally output as a signal for notifying only the number of changes in one of the special symbols, and the symbol is determined as a signal for notifying the number of variations in both special symbols. What is necessary is just to comprise so that the frequency 1 signal may be output outside. With such a configuration, on the side of an external device such as a hall computer, in addition to the number of fluctuations of only one of the special symbols, the total number of fluctuations of both special symbols can be grasped.

  FIG. 7 is a circuit diagram showing an internal configuration of the terminal board 160. In the terminal board 160 shown in FIG. 7, the upper left connector CN-1 is a connector for connecting a cable for transmitting a signal from the main board 31, and the lower left connector CN-2 is a payout control board 37. This is a connector for connecting a cable for transmitting a signal from the main board 31 via the main board 31. The right connectors CN1 to CN9 are connectors for connecting cables that transmit signals to external devices such as hall computers. The terminal board 160 is mounted with semiconductor relays (PhotoMOS relays) PC1 to PC9 as driver circuits.

  When the cable from the main board 31 is connected to the connector CN-1, various signals are input from the main board 31 (game control microcomputer 560) to the terminal board 160. Specifically, the symbol determination number 1 signal is input to the terminal “2” of the connector CN-1, the start port signal is input to the terminal “3” of the connector CN-1, and the terminal “4” of the connector CN-1 is input. 1 signal is input to the terminal “5” of the connector CN-1, 2 signals are input to the terminal “6” of the connector CN-1, and 3 signals of the jackpot are input to the terminal “7” of the connector CN-1. ”Is input to the terminal“ 8 ”of the connector CN-1, and a security signal is input to the terminal“ 9 ”of the connector CN-1.

  Further, when the cable from the payout control board 37 is connected to the connector CN-2 via the main board 31, a signal from the payout control board 37 (the payout control microcomputer 370) is input to the terminal board 160. The Specifically, the prize ball information is input to the terminal “9” of the connector CN-2.

  As shown in FIG. 7, in the terminal board 160, the signal line of the reference potential is connected to the terminal “1” of the connector CN-1 and the connector CN-2, and the signal line branches to each of the semiconductor relays PC1 to PC1. It is connected to the input terminal “1” of the PC 9. The signal lines connected to the terminals “2” to “9” of the connector CN-1 and the connector “9” of the connector CN-2 are respectively connected to the semiconductor relays PC1 to PC9 via the 1 KΩ resistors R1 to R9. Input terminal “2”. The signal lines connected to the output terminals “4” of the semiconductor relays PC1 to PC9 are connected to the terminals “1” of the connectors CN1 to CN9, respectively. The signal lines connected to the output terminals “3” of the semiconductor relays PC1 to PC9 are connected to the terminals “2” of the connectors CN1 to CN9, respectively.

  In the semiconductor relays PC1 to PC9, when a signal current flows through the input terminal, the light emitting element (LED) on the input side emits light. The emitted light is applied to the photoelectric element (solar cell) provided opposite to the LED through the transparent silicon. The photoelectric element that has received the light exchanges a voltage according to the amount of light, and this voltage charges the MOSFET gate of the output section through the control circuit. When the MOSFET gate voltage supplied from the photoelectric element reaches the set voltage value, the MOSFET becomes conductive and turns on the load. When the signal current at the input terminal is cut off, the light emitting element (LED) stops emitting light. When the light emission of the LED stops, the voltage of the photoelectric element decreases, and when the voltage supplied from the photoelectric element decreases, the gate load of the MOSFET is rapidly discharged by the control circuit. With this control circuit, the MOSFET is turned off and the load is turned off.

  By the operation of the semiconductor relays PC1 to PC9 as described above, the signals input from the connectors CN-1 and CN-2 on the input side are transmitted to the connectors CN1 to CN9 on the output side to the external device such as a hall computer. Is output. Specifically, the design CN count 1 signal is output from the connector CN1, the start signal is output from the connector CN2, the jackpot signal is output from the connector CN3, the jackpot signal is output from the connector CN4, and the connector CN5 is output. Three jackpot signals are output, a time reduction signal is output from the connector CN6, a winning signal is output from the connector CN7, a security signal is output from the connector CN8, and prize ball information is output from the connector CN9. The assignment of connectors to each external output signal on terminal board 160 is not limited to that shown in this embodiment. For example, the security signal may be output from the end connector (for example, connector CN9) provided on the terminal board 160.

  Note that the winning signal output from the connector CN7 indicates that a predetermined payout condition for paying out a predetermined number (in this embodiment, 10 balls) of winning balls is satisfied (the first start winning port 13, The winning of the second starting winning port 14, the third starting winning port 17, and the big winning port has occurred, and no prize balls have been paid in. Specifically, the proximity switch (count switch 23, first switch This is a signal indicating that a predetermined payout condition has been established on condition that a detection signal from the start port switch 13a, the second start port switch 14a, and the third start port switch 17a) is input. . By confirming the winning signal, the expected number of prize balls to be paid out can be recognized by an external device such as a hall computer.

  Also, the prize ball information output from the connector CN9 is that a specific number (in this embodiment, 10) prize balls are paid out (the ball payout device 97 is driven and the prize balls are actually paid out). This is a signal indicating that By confirming the prize ball information, the number of prize balls actually paid out can be recognized by an external device such as a hall computer. Also, by confirming the planned number of prize balls indicated by the winning signal and the number of prize balls already paid out indicated by the prize ball information, whether or not the prize balls have been paid out normally and the number of excess or insufficient prize balls are determined. It can be recognized by an external device such as a hall computer.

  The security signal output from the connector CN8 is a signal indicating the security state of the gaming machine. Specifically, as will be described later, when it is determined that a winning order abnormality has occurred between the first start winning opening 13 and the second starting winning opening 14, the security signal is set to a hole for a predetermined period (for example, 30 seconds). Output to an external device such as a computer. By configuring in this way, the possibility that a winning order abnormality between the first start winning opening 13 and the second starting winning opening 14 has occurred and some sort of fraud is being performed is confirmed on the external device side such as a hall computer. Can be recognized.

  Further, as described above, by providing the semiconductor relays PC1 to PC9 on the terminal board 160, signal input from the outside to the inside of the gaming machine can be prevented, and as a result, illegal acts can be surely prevented. it can. In the above example, the semiconductor relays PC1 to PC9 are provided on the terminal board 160. However, other relay elements such as mechanical relays may be used instead of the semiconductor relays PC1 to PC9.

  Next, the operation of the gaming machine will be described. FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a main process executed by the game control microcomputer 560 on the main board 31. When power is supplied to the gaming machine and power supply is started, the input level of the reset terminal to which the reset signal is input becomes high level, and the gaming control microcomputer 560 (specifically, the CPU 56) After executing a security check process, which is a process for confirming whether the contents of the program are valid, the main process after step S1 is started. In the main process, the CPU 56 first performs necessary initial settings.

  In the initial setting process, the CPU 56 first sets the interrupt prohibition (step S1). Next, the interrupt mode is set to interrupt mode 2 (step S2), and a stack pointer designation address is set to the stack pointer (step S3). After initialization of the built-in device (CTC (counter / timer) and PIO (parallel input / output port), which are built-in devices (built-in peripheral circuits)) is performed (step S4), the RAM is accessible (Step S5). In interrupt mode 2, the address synthesized from the value (1 byte) of the specific register (I register) built in the CPU 56 and the interrupt vector (1 byte: least significant bit 0) output from the built-in device is This mode indicates an interrupt address.

  Next, the CPU 56 checks the state of the output signal (clear signal) of a clear switch (for example, mounted on the power supply board) input via the input port (step S6). When the ON is detected in the confirmation, the CPU 56 executes normal initialization processing (steps S10 to S15).

  If the clear switch is not on, check whether data protection processing of the backup RAM area (for example, power supply stop processing such as addition of parity data) was performed when power supply to the gaming machine was stopped (Step S7). When it is confirmed that such protection processing is not performed, the CPU 56 executes initialization processing. Whether there is backup data in the backup RAM area is confirmed, for example, by the state of the backup flag set in the backup RAM area in the power supply stop process.

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

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

  Further, the CPU 56 transmits a power failure recovery designation command as an initialization command at the time of power supply recovery (step S43). Further, the CPU 56 transmits a display result designation command designating a display result (15R probability variation big hit, 7R probability variation big hit, sudden probability variation big hit, small hit or out) stored in the backup RAM to the effect control board 80. (Step S44). Then, the process proceeds to step S14. In step S44, for example, when the value of a special symbol pointer (to be described later) is also stored in the backup RAM, the CPU 56 also transmits a first symbol variation designation command and a second symbol variation designation command (see FIG. 13). You may make it do. In this case, the production control microcomputer 100 may resume the variation display of the fourth symbol based on the reception of the first symbol variation designation command or the second symbol variation designation command.

  In this embodiment, the value of a variable time timer (to be described later) is also stored in the backup RAM area. Therefore, when the power failure is restored, after the display result designation command is transmitted in step S44, measurement of the saved variation time timer value is resumed, and the variation display of the special symbol is resumed and saved. When the value of the changed time timer has timed out, a symbol determination designation command to be described later is further transmitted. In this embodiment, a special symbol process flag value, which will be described later, is also stored in the backup RAM area. Therefore, when the power failure is recovered, the special symbol process is resumed from the process corresponding to the value of the stored special symbol process flag.

  Note that the display result designation command is not necessarily transmitted when the power failure is restored, but the CPU 56 may first confirm whether or not the value of the variable time timer stored in the backup RAM area is zero. . If the value of the variation time timer is not 0, it is determined that a power failure occurs during the variation, and a display result designation command is transmitted. It may be determined that the state has not been reached, and the display result designation command may not be transmitted.

  Further, the CPU 56 may first check whether or not the value of the special symbol process flag stored in the backup RAM area is 3. If the value of the special symbol process flag is 3, it is determined that the power failure occurs during the fluctuation, and a display result designation command is transmitted. If the special symbol process flag is not 3, the fluctuation occurs at the time of the power failure. The display result designation command may not be transmitted because it is determined that it is not in the middle.

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

  In the initialization process, the CPU 56 first performs a RAM clear process (step S10). The RAM clear process initializes predetermined data (for example, count value data of a counter for generating a random number for normal symbol determination) to 0, but an arbitrary value or a predetermined value It may be initialized to. In addition, the entire area of the RAM 55 may not be initialized, and predetermined data (for example, count value data of a counter for generating a random number for normal symbol determination) may be left as it is. Further, the start address of the initialization setting table stored in the ROM 54 is set as a pointer (step S11), and the contents of the initialization setting table are sequentially set in the work area (step S12).

  By the processing in steps S11 and S12, for example, a normal symbol per-determining random number counter, a special symbol buffer, a total prize ball number storage buffer, a special symbol process flag, and other flags for selectively performing processing according to the control state are initialized. Value is set.

  Further, the CPU 56 initializes a sub board (a board on which a microcomputer other than the main board 31 is mounted) (a command indicating that the game control microcomputer 560 has executed an initialization process). Is also transmitted to the sub-board (step S13). For example, when the effect control microcomputer 100 receives the initialization designation command, the effect display device 9 performs screen display for notifying that the control of the gaming machine has been performed, that is, initialization notification.

  Further, the CPU 56 executes a random number circuit setting process for initial setting of the random number circuit 503 (step S14). For example, the CPU 56 performs setting according to the random number circuit setting program to cause the random number circuit 503 to update the value of the random R.

  In step S15, the CPU 56 sets a CTC register built in the game control microcomputer 560 so that a timer interrupt is periodically generated every predetermined time (for example, 4 ms). That is, a value corresponding to, for example, 4 ms is set in a predetermined register (time constant register) as an initial value. In this embodiment, it is assumed that a timer interrupt is periodically taken every 4 ms.

  When the execution of the initialization process (steps S10 to S15) is completed, the CPU 56 repeatedly executes the display random number update process (step S17) and the initial value random number update process (step S18) in the main process. When executing the display random number update process and the initial value random number update process, the interrupt disabled state is set (step S16). When the display random number update process and the initial value random number update process are finished, the interrupt enabled state is set. Set (step S19). In this embodiment, the display random number is a random number for determining the stop symbol of the special symbol when it is not a big hit, or a random number for determining whether to reach when it is not a big hit, The random number update process is a process for updating the count value of the counter for generating the display random number. The initial value random number update process is a process for updating the count value of the counter for generating the initial value random number. In this embodiment, the initial value random number is the initial value of the count value of the counter for generating a random number for determining whether or not to win for a normal symbol (normal random number generation counter for normal symbol determination). It is a random number to determine. A game control process for controlling the progress of the game, which will be described later (the game control microcomputer 560 controls game devices such as an effect display device, a variable winning ball device, a ball payout device, etc. provided in the game machine itself. In the process of transmitting a command signal to be controlled by another microcomputer, or a game machine control process), the count value of the random number for determination per normal symbol is one round (the random number for determination per normal symbol is taken). When the value is incremented by the number of values between the minimum value and the maximum value of the possible values), an initial value is set in the counter.

  In this embodiment, the reach effect is executed using effect symbols that are variably displayed on the effect display device 9. In addition, when the display result of the special symbol is a jackpot symbol, the reach effect is always executed (however, in the case of the sudden probability variation big hit, the reach probability sudden hit symbol (for example, “135”) is not reached but reached. May be stopped). When the display result of the special symbol is not a jackpot symbol, the game control microcomputer 560 determines whether to execute the reach effect by performing a lottery to determine the variation pattern type and variation pattern using random numbers. To do. However, it is the production control microcomputer 100 that actually executes the reach production control.

  When the timer interrupt occurs, the CPU 56 executes the timer interrupt process of steps S20 to S35 shown in FIG. In the timer interrupt process, first, a power-off detection process for detecting whether or not a power-off signal is output (whether or not an on-state is turned on) is executed (step S20). The power-off signal is output, for example, when a power supply monitoring circuit mounted on the power supply board detects a decrease in the voltage of the power supplied to the gaming machine. In the power-off detection process, when detecting that the power-off signal has been output, the CPU 56 executes a power supply stop process for saving necessary data in the backup RAM area. Next, detection signals of the gate switch 32a, the first start port switch 13a, the second start port switch 14a, the third start port switch 17a and the count switch 23 are input via the input driver circuit 58, and the state determination thereof is performed. Performed (switch processing: step S21).

  Next, the CPU 56 performs a winning order abnormality notifying process for detecting a winning order abnormality in the first starting winning opening 13 and the second starting winning opening 14 and notifying the winning order abnormality (step S22).

  It should be noted that “abnormal winning order” means the order in which game balls have won the first start winning opening 13 and the second starting winning opening 14 (specifically, the first start opening switch 13a and the second start opening switch 14a). The order in which game balls are detected is different from the predetermined order. In this embodiment, as already described, the game balls that have flowed into the distribution device 200 are configured to alternately win the first start winning opening 13 and the second start winning opening 14 by the distribution member 202. (However, in the probability variation state (high base state), there may be cases where the second start winning opening 14 can be won regardless of the state of the distribution device 200), so the first start winning opening 13 or the second start A game ball does not continuously win the winning opening 14 (however, in the probability variation state (high base state), there may be a continuous winning in the second start winning opening 14). For this reason, in this embodiment, a winning order abnormality is detected when a predetermined number or more (four or more in this example) are continuously won in either the first start winning opening 13 or the second starting winning opening 14. Control for notifying such a winning order abnormality is performed.

  Next, the CPU 56 has a first special symbol display 8a, a second special symbol display 8b, a normal symbol display 10, a first special symbol hold storage display 18a, a second special symbol hold storage display 18b, a normal symbol. A display control process for controlling the display of the on-hold storage display 41 is executed (step S23). For the first special symbol display 8a, the second special symbol display 8b, and the normal symbol display 10, a drive signal is output to each display according to the contents of the output buffer set in steps S33 and S34. Execute control.

  Further, a process of updating the count value of each counter for generating each random number for determination such as a random number for determination per ordinary symbol used for game control is performed (determination random number update process: step S24). The CPU 56 further performs a process of updating the count value of the counter for generating the initial value random number and the display random number (initial value random number update process, display random number update process: steps S25 and S26).

  Further, the CPU 56 performs special symbol process processing (step S27). In the special symbol process, corresponding processing is executed according to a special symbol process flag for controlling the first special symbol indicator 8a, the second special symbol indicator 8b, and the special winning award in a predetermined order. The CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag according to the gaming state.

  Next, normal symbol process processing is performed (step S28). In the normal symbol process, the CPU 56 executes a corresponding process according to the normal symbol process flag for controlling the display state of the normal symbol display 10 in a predetermined order. The CPU 56 updates the value of the normal symbol process flag according to the gaming state.

  Further, the CPU 56 performs a process of sending an effect control command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (effect control command control process: step S29).

  Further, the CPU 56 performs information output processing for outputting data such as jackpot information, start information, probability variation information supplied to the hall management computer, for example (step S30).

  Further, the CPU 56 executes a prize ball process for setting the number of prize balls based on detection signals from the first start port switch 13a, the second start port switch 14a, the third start port switch 17a, and the count switch 23 (step). S31). Specifically, it is mounted on the payout control board 37 in response to winning detection based on any one of the first start port switch 13a, the second start port switch 14a, the third start port switch 17a and the count switch 23 being turned on. A payout control command (award ball number signal) indicating the number of prize balls is output to the payout control microcomputer. The payout control microcomputer drives the ball payout device 97 in response to a payout control command indicating the number of winning balls.

  In this embodiment, a RAM area (output port buffer) corresponding to the output state of the output port is provided. However, the CPU 56 relates to on / off of the solenoid in the RAM area corresponding to the output state of the output port. The contents are output to the output port (step S32: output process).

  Further, the CPU 56 performs special symbol display control processing for setting special symbol display control data for effect display of the special symbol in the output buffer for setting the special symbol display control data according to the value of the special symbol process flag ( Step S33).

  Further, the CPU 56 performs a normal symbol display control process for setting normal symbol display control data for effect display of the normal symbol in an output buffer for setting the normal symbol display control data according to the value of the normal symbol process flag ( Step S34). For example, when the start flag related to the variation of the normal symbol is set, the CPU 56 switches the display state (“◯” and “×”) for the variation rate of the normal symbol every 0.2 seconds until the end flag is set. With such a speed, the value of the display control data set in the output buffer (for example, 1 indicating “◯” and 0 indicating “x”) is switched every 0.2 seconds. Further, the CPU 56 outputs a normal signal on the normal symbol display 10 by outputting a drive signal in step S23 in accordance with the display control data set in the output buffer.

  Thereafter, the interrupt permission state is set (step S35), and the process is terminated.

  With the above control, in this embodiment, the game control process is started every 4 ms. The game control process corresponds to the processes of steps S21 to S34 (excluding step S30) in the timer interrupt process. In this embodiment, the game control process is executed by the timer interrupt process. However, in the timer interrupt process, for example, only a flag indicating that an interrupt has occurred is set, and the game control process is performed by the main process. May be executed.

  When the shifted symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b and the effect display device 9, the variable display state of the effect symbol is started after the variable display of the effect symbol is started. There may be a case where a predetermined combination of effects that does not reach reach is stopped and displayed without reaching reach. Such a variable display mode of the effect symbol is referred to as a variable display mode of “non-reach” (also referred to as “normally shift”) in a case where the variable display result is a loss symbol.

  When the shifted symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b and the effect display device 9, the variable display state of the effect symbol is started after the variable display of the effect symbol is started. After reaching the reach state, a reach effect is executed, and a combination of predetermined effect symbols that do not eventually become a jackpot symbol may be stopped and displayed. Such a variable display result of the effect design is referred to as a variable display mode of “reach” (also referred to as “reach out”) when the variable display result is “out of”.

  In this embodiment, when the big win symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b, the reach effect is executed after the variable display state of the effect symbol becomes the reach state. Finally, the effect symbols are stopped and displayed in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” symbol display areas 9L, 9C, and 9R in the effect display device 9 (provided that the probability sudden hit is sudden) In some cases, the probability change big hit symbol (for example, “135”) is stopped and displayed without being reached).

  When “5”, which is a small hit, is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b, the effect display variable display mode is “suddenly probable big hit” on the effect display device 9. In the same manner as in the case where the effect symbol is variably displayed, a predetermined small hit symbol (the same symbol as the sudden probability variation big hit symbol, for example, "135") may be stopped and displayed. The display effect in the effect display device 9 corresponding to the fact that “5”, which is the small hit symbol, is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol indicator 8b is referred to as a “small hit” variable display mode. .

  Here, the small win is a hit that is allowed up to a small number of times that the big winning opening is opened compared to the big win (in this embodiment, the opening for 0.1 second is twice). When the small hit game ends, the game state does not change. That is, there is no transition from the probability variation state to the normal state or from the normal state to the certain variation state. In addition, the sudden probability change big hit is allowed up to a small number of times of opening of the big prize opening in the big hit gaming state (in this embodiment, the opening for 0.1 second is twice), but the opening time of the big prize opening is extremely large. It is a big jackpot that is a short jackpot and the game state after the big jackpot game is shifted to a probabilistic state (that is, by doing so, it appears to the player as if it suddenly became a probable state) Is). In other words, in this embodiment, the sudden winning odds and the small wins have the same opening pattern of the big prize opening. By controlling in such a way, if the winning opening is opened twice for 0.1 seconds, it is impossible to recognize whether it is suddenly a big hit or a small hit, so a high probability state for the player (Probable change state) can be expected, and the interest of the game can be improved.

  FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing a variation pattern of the effect symbols prepared in advance. As shown in FIG. 10, in this embodiment, the non-reach PA1-1 to non-variable are used as the variation pattern corresponding to the case where the variable display result is “out of” and the variable display mode of the effect design is “non-reach”. A variation pattern of reach PA1-4 is prepared. Further, normal PA2-1 to normal PA2-2, normal PB2-1 to normal PB2-2 are shown as variation patterns corresponding to the case where the variable display result is “out” and the variable display mode of the effect symbol is “reach”. Fluctuation patterns of super PA3-1 to super PA3-2 and super PB3-1 to super PB3-2 are prepared. In addition, as shown in FIG. 10, about the fluctuation pattern of non-reach PA1-4 which is used when not reaching and has the effect of pseudo-continuous, re-change is performed once. Of the variation patterns used for reaching and accompanied by pseudo-rendition, when normal PB2-1 is used, re-variation is performed once. Of the variation patterns that are used for reaching and have a pseudo-continuous effect, when normal PB2-2 is used, re-variation is performed twice. Furthermore, when using super PA3-1 to super PA3-2 among the fluctuation patterns used for reaching and accompanied by pseudo-rendition effects, re-variation is performed three times. Note that the re-variation means that the variable display of the effect symbol is executed again after temporarily stopping the effect symbol that is once deviated from the start of the variable display of the effect symbol until the display result is derived and displayed. .

  Also, as shown in FIG. 10, in this embodiment, normal PA2-3 to normal PA2-4, normal PB2 are used as the variation patterns corresponding to the case where the variable symbol display result of the special symbol is a big hit symbol or a small hit symbol. -3 to Normal PB2-4, Super PA3-3 to SuperPA3-4, Super PB3-3 to Super PB3-4, Special PG1-1 to Special PG1-3, Special PG2-1 to Special PG2-2 Is prepared. In FIG. 10, the fluctuation patterns of special PG1-1 to special PG1-3 and special PG2-1 to special PG2-2 are fluctuation patterns that are used when sudden probability big hit or small hit. Also, as shown in FIG. 10, the re-variation is performed once when the normal PB2-3 is used among the variation patterns that are used when the sudden change is not big hit or small hit and has a pseudo-continuous effect. Of the fluctuation patterns used for reaching and accompanied by pseudo-continuous effects, when normal PB2-4 is used, re-variation is performed twice. Furthermore, when using super PA3-3 to super PA3-4 among the fluctuation patterns that are used for reaching and have the effect of pseudo-ream, re-variation is performed three times. In addition, for the variation pattern of the special PG 1-3 that is used in the case of sudden probability big hit or small hit and has a pseudo-continuous effect, re-variation is performed once.

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 10, when the variation time is fixedly determined according to the type of reach (for example, the variation time is 32 in the case of Super Reach A with a pseudo-ream). In the case of Super Reach A without pseudo-ream, the fluctuation time is fixed at 22.75 seconds). For example, even in the case of the same type of Super Reach Depending on the total number of pending storage, the variation time may be varied. For example, even with the same type of super reach, the variation time may be shortened as the total number of pending storage increases. Also, for example, even in the case of the same type of super reach, when the variable display of the first special symbol is performed, the variable time may be varied according to the first reserved memory number. When the variable display of the two special symbols is performed, the variable time may be varied according to the second reserved memory number. In this case, a separate determination table is prepared for each value of the first reserved memory number and the second reserved memory number (for example, the variation pattern type determination table for the reserved memory numbers 0 to 2 and the reserved memory numbers 3 and 4). For example, a determination table may be selected according to the value of the first reserved memory number or the second reserved memory number, and the change time may be varied.

FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing each random number. Each random number is used as follows.
(1) Random 1 (MR1): Determines the type of jackpot (15R probability variation jackpot, 7R probability variation jackpot, sudden probability variation jackpot described later) (for jackpot type determination)
(2) Random 2 (MR2): The type (type) of the variation pattern is determined (for variation pattern type determination)
(3) Random 3 (MR3): A variation pattern (variation time) is determined (for variation pattern determination)
(4) Random 4 (MR4): Determines whether or not to generate a hit based on a normal symbol (for normal symbol hit determination)
(5) Random 5 (MR5): Determine the initial value of random 4 (for determining the initial value of random 4)

  In this embodiment, the variation pattern is first determined using the variation pattern type determination random number (random 2), and then the variation pattern determined using the variation pattern determination random number (random 3). One of the variation patterns included in the pattern type is determined. Thus, in this embodiment, the variation pattern is determined by a two-stage lottery process.

  The variation pattern type is a group of a plurality of variation patterns according to the characteristics of the variation mode. For example, a plurality of variation patterns are grouped by reach type, and include a variation pattern type including a variation pattern with normal reach, a variation pattern type including a variation pattern with super reach A, and a variation pattern with super reach B. It may be divided into variable pattern types. Further, for example, a plurality of variation patterns are grouped by the number of re-variations of pseudo-continuations, a variation pattern type including a variation pattern without pseudo-ream, a variation pattern type including a variation pattern of one re-variation, It may be divided into a variation pattern type including a variation pattern of two variations and a variation pattern type including a variation pattern of three variations. Further, for example, a plurality of variation patterns may be grouped according to the presence / absence of a specific effect such as a pseudo ream or a slip effect.

  In step S24 in the game control process shown in FIG. 9, the game control microcomputer 560 uses a counter for generating (1) a big hit type determination random number and (4) a normal symbol determination random number. Count up (add 1). That is, they are determination random numbers, and other random numbers are display random numbers (random 2, random 3) or initial value random numbers (random 5). In addition, in order to improve a game effect, you may use random numbers other than said random number. In this embodiment, a random number generated by hardware incorporated in the game control microcomputer 560 (or hardware external to the game control microcomputer 560) is used as the jackpot determination random number. Note that a software random number instead of a hardware random number may be used as the jackpot determination random number.

  FIG. 12A is an explanatory diagram showing a jackpot determination table. The jackpot determination table is a collection of data stored in the ROM 54 and is a table in which a jackpot determination value to be compared with the random R is set. The jackpot determination table includes a normal jackpot determination table used in a normal state and a short time state (that is, a gaming state that is not a probability change state) and a probability change jackpot determination table used in a probability change state. Each numerical value described in the left column of FIG. 12 (A) is set in the normal jackpot determination table, and each numerical value described in the right column of FIG. Is set. The numerical value described in FIG. 12A is a jackpot determination value.

  12B and 12C are explanatory diagrams showing a small hit determination table. The small hit determination table is a collection of data stored in the ROM 54 and is a table in which a small hit determination value to be compared with the random R is set. The small hit determination table includes a small hit determination table (for the first special symbol) used when the variable display of the first special symbol is performed, and a small hit determination table used when the variable display of the second special symbol is performed. (For the second special symbol). Each value described in FIG. 12B is set in the small hit determination table (for the first special symbol), and in the small hit determination table (for the second special symbol), the values shown in FIG. Each numerical value listed is set. Also, the numerical values described in FIGS. 12B and 12C are small hit determination values.

  Note that it may be determined that a small hit is made only when the variable display of the first special symbol is performed, and the small hit may not be provided when the variable display of the second special symbol is performed. In this case, the small hit determination table for the second special symbol shown in FIG. In this embodiment, when the gaming state is shifted to the probability changing state, the variation display of the second special symbol is mainly executed. Even if the game state is shifted to the probability change state, a small hit will be generated, and if it is configured to produce an effect asking whether or not the probability change will occur, even though the current game state is the probability change state On the contrary, it makes the player feel annoying. Therefore, if it is configured so that the small hit does not occur during the variation display of the second special symbol, if the gaming state is the probability variation state, it is difficult for the small hit to occur and the excessive effect is not given to the probability variation. This can prevent the player from feeling annoyed.

  The CPU 56 extracts the count value of the random number circuit 503 at a predetermined time and uses the extracted value as the value of the big hit determination random number (random R). The big hit determination random number is shown in FIG. If it matches any of the big hit determination values, it is decided to make a big hit (15R probability variation big hit, 7R probability variation big hit, sudden probability variation big hit described later) for the special symbol. Further, when the big hit determination random number value matches one of the small hit determination values shown in FIGS. 12B and 12C, it is determined to make a small hit for the special symbol. Note that the “probability” shown in FIG. 12A indicates the probability (ratio) of a big hit. Further, the “probability” shown in FIGS. 12B and 12C indicates the probability (ratio) of making a small hit. Further, deciding whether or not to win a jackpot means deciding whether or not to shift to the jackpot gaming state, but the stop symbol in the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b is determined. It also means deciding whether or not to make a jackpot symbol. Further, determining whether or not to make a small hit means determining whether or not to shift to the small hit gaming state, but stopping in the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b. It also means determining whether or not the symbol is to be a small hit symbol.

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 12B and 12C, when the small hit determination table (for the first special symbol) is used, the small hit is determined at a ratio of 1/300. On the other hand, when using the small hit determination table (second special symbol), a case where the small hit is determined at a ratio of 1/3000 will be described. Therefore, in this embodiment, when the first start winning opening 13 is started and the first special symbol variation display is executed, the second starting winning opening 14 and the third starting winning opening 17 are started winning. As compared with the case where the variable display of the second special symbol is executed, the ratio determined as “small hit” is high.

  12D and 12E are explanatory diagrams showing the jackpot type determination tables 131a and 131b stored in the ROM 54. FIG. Among these, FIG. 12 (D) determines the jackpot type using the hold memory based on the game ball winning the first start winning opening 13 (that is, when the first special symbol is displayed in a variable manner). This is a jackpot type determination table (for the first special symbol) 131a. Further, FIG. 12E shows a case in which a holding memory is used based on the fact that the game ball has won the second start winning opening 14 or the third starting winning opening 17 (that is, when the variation display of the second special symbol is performed). ) A jackpot type determination table (for the second special symbol) 131b when determining the jackpot type.

  The jackpot type determination tables 131a and 131b, when it is determined that the variable display result is a jackpot symbol, based on the random number (random 1) for determining the jackpot type, This table is referred to in order to determine either “7R probability variation big hit” or “sudden probability variation big hit”. In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 12D and 12E, five determination values are assigned to “suddenly probable big hit” in the big hit type determination table 131a (40 minutes). Is determined to be a sudden probability change big hit at a rate of 5), whereas in the big hit type determination table 131b, one determination value is assigned to "sudden probability change big hit" (a ratio of 1/40) Will suddenly be determined to be a promising big hit). Therefore, in this embodiment, when the first start winning opening 13 is started and the first special symbol variation display is executed, the second starting winning opening 14 and the third starting winning opening 17 are started winning. As compared with the case where the variation display of the second special symbol is executed, the ratio determined as “suddenly probable big hit” is high. Note that “sudden probability variation big hit” is assigned only to the first special symbol jackpot type determination table 131a, and “sudden probability variation big hit” is not assigned to the second special symbol big hit type determination table 131b (ie, It may be determined that “suddenly probable big hit” may be determined only when the variable display of the first special symbol is performed.

  Also, as shown in FIGS. 12D and 12E, in this embodiment, the big hit type determination table 131b is larger than the “15R probability variation big hit” compared to the big hit type determination table 131a. Judgment value of is assigned. Therefore, in this embodiment, when a start winning prize is given to the second starting prize opening 14 or the third starting prize opening 17 and the variation display of the second special symbol is executed, the start winning prize is given to the first start prize opening 13. As compared with the case where the variation display of the first special symbol is executed, the ratio of advantageous “15R probability variation big hit” is high.

  In this embodiment, the case where the variation display of the second special symbol is executed is more advantageous than the case where the variation display of the first special symbol is executed. The allocation of the type determination table 131a and the jackpot type determination table 131b is the same, and the advantage is the same between the case of performing the variable display of the first special symbol and the case of performing the variable display of the second special symbol. May be.

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 12D and 12E, there are “15R probability variation big hit”, “7R probability variation big hit” and “sudden probability variation big hit” as the big hit types. In this embodiment, the case where the number of rounds executed in the jackpot game is three types of 15 rounds, 7 rounds, and 2 rounds, but the number of rounds executed in the jackpot game is the number of rounds executed in this implementation. It is not limited to those shown in the form. For example, a 10R probability variable jackpot that is controlled for a 10-round jackpot game and a 5R probability variable jackpot that is controlled for a 5-round jackpot game may be provided. In this embodiment, there are three types of jackpot types: “15R probability variation big hit”, “7R probability variation big hit”, and “sudden probability variation big hit”. The above jackpot type may be provided. Conversely, the jackpot type may be less than three types, for example, only two types may be provided as the jackpot type.

  The “15R probability variable big hit” is a big hit that is controlled to the big round gaming state of 15 rounds and shifts to the probability changed state after the big hit gaming state is finished. (See step S166 described later). Then, after shifting to the probability changing state, when the variable display is finished a predetermined number of times (70 times in this embodiment), the probability changing state (and the time shortening state) is finished (see steps S167 and S141 to S144). Even before the variable display is finished a predetermined number of times, even if the next big hit occurs, the probability variation state (and the time reduction state) is terminated (see step S132).

  Further, the “7R probability variation big hit” is a big hit that is controlled to the seven-round big hit gaming state and shifts to the probability changed state after the big hit gaming state ends (in this embodiment, the time is changed to the probability changed state and the time is shortened). The state is also shifted to (see step S166 described later). Then, after shifting to the probability changing state, when the variable display is finished a predetermined number of times (70 times in this embodiment), the probability changing state (and the time shortening state) is finished (see steps S167 and S141 to S144). Even before the variable display is finished a predetermined number of times, even if the next big hit occurs, the probability variation state (and the time reduction state) is terminated (see step S132).

  The “sudden probability change big hit” is the number of times that the special winning opening is less than the “15R probability change big hit” or “7R probability change big hit” (in this embodiment, the opening for 0.1 seconds is twice). The jackpot allowed up to. In other words, when “suddenly promising big hit”, the game is controlled to a two round big hit gaming state. Also, in the case of “15R probability variation big hit” and “7R probability variation big hit”, the opening time of the big winning opening per round is as long as 29 seconds, whereas in “sudden probability changing big hit”, the big winning opening is released per round. The time is as short as 0.1 seconds, and it is almost impossible to expect a game ball to win a big prize during the big hit game. In this embodiment, after the sudden probability change big hit gaming state is finished, the state is changed to the probability change state (in this embodiment, the state is changed to the probability change state and also to the short time state. See step S166 described later. ). Then, after shifting to the probability changing state, when the variable display is finished a predetermined number of times (70 times in this embodiment), the probability changing state (and the time shortening state) is finished (see steps S167 and S141 to S144). Even before the variable display is finished a predetermined number of times, even if the next big hit occurs, the probability variation state (and the time reduction state) is terminated (see step S132).

  As described above, in this embodiment, even in the case of “small hit”, the big winning opening is opened twice for 0.1 seconds each, Similar control is performed. In the case of “small hit”, the game state does not change after the opening of the big winning opening twice, and the game state before “small hit” is maintained. By doing so, it is made impossible to recognize whether it is “suddenly promising big hit” or “small hit”, and the interest of the game is improved. In addition, when it is configured such that the big hit types are all probable big hits as in this embodiment, the small hits need not be provided. In addition, when the big hit types are all probabilistic big hits as in this embodiment, a short hit state (high base state) can be obtained simply by shifting to a probable state (high probability state). It is preferable to provide a sudden probability variation big hit without the parenthesis (the opening pattern of the big prize opening is also the same in the case of sudden probability variation big hit and small hit).

  The jackpot type determination tables 131a and 131b are numerical values to be compared with a random value of 1, which corresponds to each of “15R probability variation big hit”, “7R probability variation big hit”, and “sudden probability variation big hit” (big hit type Judgment value) is set. When the value of random 1 matches any of the jackpot type determination values, the CPU 56 determines the jackpot type as a type corresponding to the matched jackpot type determination value.

  FIG. 13 and FIG. 14 are explanatory diagrams showing an example of the contents of the effect control command transmitted by the game control microcomputer 560. In the example shown in FIGS. 13 and 14, the command 80XX (H) is an effect control command (variation pattern command) that specifies a variation pattern of the effect symbol that is variably displayed on the effect display device 9 in response to the variable display of the special symbol. (Each corresponding to a variation pattern XX). That is, when a unique number is assigned to each variation pattern that can be used, there is a variation pattern command corresponding to each variation pattern specified by the number. “(H)” indicates a hexadecimal number. The effect control command for designating the variation pattern is also a command for designating the start of variation. Therefore, when receiving the command 80XX (H), the effect control microcomputer 100 controls the effect display device 9 to start variable display of effect symbols.

  Commands 8C01 (H) to 8C05 (H) are effect control commands indicating whether or not to make a big hit, whether or not to make a big hit, and a big hit type. The effect control microcomputer 100 determines the display result of the effect symbols in response to the reception of the commands 8C01 (H) to 8C05 (H), so the commands 8C01 (H) to 8C05 (H) are referred to as display result designation commands.

  Command 8D01 (H) is an effect control command (first symbol variation designation command) indicating that variable display (variation) of the first special symbol is started. Command 8D02 (H) is an effect control command (second symbol variation designation command) indicating that variable display (variation) of the second special symbol is started. The first symbol variation designation command and the second symbol variation designation command may be collectively referred to as a special symbol specifying command (or symbol variation designation command). Note that information indicating whether to start variable display of the first special symbol or variable display of the second special symbol may be included in the variation pattern command.

  Command 8F00 (H) is an effect control command (symbol confirmation designation command) indicating that the variable display (fluctuation) of the fourth symbol is terminated and the display result (stop symbol) is derived and displayed. When receiving the symbol confirmation designation command, the effect control microcomputer 100 ends the variable display (fluctuation) of the fourth symbol and derives and displays the display result.

  Command 9000 (H) is an effect control command (initialization designation command: power-on designation command) transmitted when power supply to the gaming machine is started. Command 9200 (H) is an effect control command (power failure recovery designation command) transmitted when power supply to the gaming machine is resumed. When the power supply to the gaming machine is started, the gaming control microcomputer 560 transmits a power failure recovery designation command if data is stored in the backup RAM, and if not, initialization designation is performed. Send a command.

  Command 9F00 (H) is an effect control command (customer waiting demonstration designation command) for designating a customer waiting demonstration.

  Commands A001 and A002 (H) are effect control commands for displaying the fanfare screen, that is, designating the start of the big hit game (big hit start designation command: fanfare designation command). In this embodiment, a big hit start designation command or a small hit / sudden probability sudden change big hit start designation command is used according to the type of big hit. Specifically, the big hit start designation command (A001 (H)) is used in the case of “15R probability change big hit” or “7R probability change big hit”, and in the case of “sudden probability change big hit” or “small hit”. A small hit / sudden probability sudden change big hit start designation command (A002 (H)) is used. Note that the game control microcomputer 560 may be configured to transmit a fanfare designation command for suddenly probable big hit start designation in the case of a sudden big hit, but not to send a fanfare designation command in the case of a small hit. Good.

  The command A1XX (H) is an effect control command (special command during opening of a big winning opening) indicating a display during the opening of the big winning opening for the number of times (round) indicated by XX. Since the value specifying the round is set in the EXT data for each round, and the command for opening a special prize opening is transmitted, a different command for opening a special prize opening is transmitted for each round. A2XX (H) is an effect control command (designation command after opening the big winning opening) indicating the closing of the big winning opening for the number of times (round) indicated by XX. In addition, since the value specifying the round is set in the EXT data for each round and the designation command after opening the special winning opening is transmitted, a different designation command after opening the special winning opening is transmitted for each round.

  The command A301 (H) is an effect control command for displaying the jackpot end screen, that is, the end of the jackpot game (a jackpot end designation command: an ending 1 designation command). The jackpot end designation command (A301 (H)) is used to end the jackpot game by “15R probability variation jackpot” or “7R probability variation jackpot”. Command A 302 (H) is an effect control command (small hit / sudden probability sudden change big hit end designation command: ending 2 designation command) that designates the end of the small hit game or the sudden probability change big hit game. The game control microcomputer 560 is configured to transmit an ending designation command for suddenly probable big hit end designation in the case of sudden probable big hit, but not to send an ending designation command in the case of small hit. Also good.

  Command B000 (H) is an effect control command (normal state background designation command) for designating background display when the gaming state is the normal state. The command B001 (H) is an effect control command (probability change state background designation command) for designating a background display when the gaming state is the probability change state.

  The command C000 (H) is an effect control command (first start winning designation command) that designates that the first start winning has been won. The command C100 (H) is an effect control command (second start winning designation command) for designating that the second starting win has been won. In this embodiment, hereinafter, the first start prize designation command and the second start prize designation command may be collectively referred to as a start prize designation command.

  The command C2XX (H) is an effect control command (total pending storage number designation command) that designates the total number (total pending storage number) that is the sum of the first reserved memory number and the second reserved memory number. “XX” in the command C2XX (H) indicates the total pending storage number. The command C300 (H) is an effect control command (total pending storage count subtraction designation command) that designates that the total pending storage count is decremented by one. In this embodiment, the game control microcomputer 560 transmits a total pending memory count subtraction designation command when subtracting the total pending memory count, but does not use the total pending memory count subtraction designation command. When subtracting the total pending storage number, a total pending storage number designation command for designating the total pending storage number after subtraction may be transmitted.

  In this embodiment, a case is shown in which a combined pending storage number designation command for designating the combined pending storage number is transmitted as a command for designating the reserved storage count. It may be configured to transmit a command for designating the increased number of reserved memories. Specifically, when the first reserved memory increases, a first reserved memory number designation command for designating the first reserved memory number is transmitted, and when the second reserved memory increases, the second reserved memory number is designated. The second reserved memory number designation command may be transmitted.

  In this embodiment, a start winning designation command for designating which one of the first start winning opening 13 and the second starting winning opening 14 is won is transmitted as the hold storage information, and the total reserved storage number However, the effect control command to be transmitted as the stored storage information is not limited to that shown in this embodiment. For example, when the number of reserved memories increases, a reserved memory number addition designation command (a first reserved memory number addition designation command or a second reserved memory number addition) indicating that the first reserved memory number or the second reserved memory number has increased. When the reserved memory number decreases, the reserved memory number subtraction designation command (the first reserved memory number subtraction designation command or the command indicating that the first reserved memory number or the second reserved memory number has decreased) is transmitted. (Second reserved memory number subtraction designation command) may be transmitted.

  The command D000 (H) is an effect control command (winning order abnormality notification designation command) that designates that a winning order abnormality of a game ball has been detected and that the winning order abnormality is notified.

  The effect control microcomputer 100 (specifically, the effect control CPU 101) mounted on the effect control board 80 receives the effect control command described above from the game control micro computer 560 mounted on the main board 31. Then, the display state of the effect display device 9 is changed according to the contents shown in FIG. 13 and FIG. To do.

  For example, the game control microcomputer 560 designates the variation pattern of the effect symbol whenever there is a start prize and variable display of the special symbol is started on the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b. The variation pattern command and the display result designation command are transmitted to the production control microcomputer 100.

  In this embodiment, the presentation control command has a 2-byte structure, the first byte represents MODE (command classification), and the second byte represents EXT (command type). The first bit (bit 7) of the MODE data is always set to “1”, and the first bit (bit 7) of the EXT data is always set to “0”. Note that such a command form is an example, and other command forms may be used. For example, a control command composed of 1 byte or 3 bytes or more may be used.

  In addition, as the transmission method of the effect control command, the effect control command data is output from the main board 31 to the effect control board 80 via the relay board 77 by the eight parallel signal lines of the effect control signals CD0 to CD7, In addition to the effect control command data, a method of outputting a pulse-shaped (rectangular wave-shaped) capture signal (effect control INT signal) for instructing capture of the effect control command data is used. The 8-bit effect control command data of the effect control command is output in synchronization with the effect control INT signal. The effect control microcomputer 100 mounted on the effect control board 80 detects that the effect control INT signal has risen, and starts a 1-byte data capturing process through an interrupt process.

  In the example shown in FIG. 13 and FIG. 14, the variable pattern command and the display result designation command are displayed as variable display (variation) of the effect symbol corresponding to the variation of the first special symbol on the first special symbol display 8 a and the second special symbol. An effect display that can be used in common with the variable display (variation) of the effect symbol corresponding to the variation of the second special symbol on the symbol display 8b, and that produces an effect with the variable display of the first special symbol and the second special symbol. It is possible to prevent an increase in the types of commands transmitted from the game control microcomputer 560 to the effect control microcomputer 100 when controlling the effect parts such as the device 9.

  FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing an example of a special symbol process (step S27) program executed by the game control microcomputer 560 (specifically, the CPU 56) mounted on the main board 31. As described above, in the special symbol process, a process for controlling the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b and the special winning opening is executed. In the special symbol process, if the first start port switch 13a, the second start port switch 14a, or the third start port switch 17a is turned on, that is, the first start winning port 13, the second start. If the start winning to either the winning opening 14 or the third starting winning opening 17 has occurred, the start opening switch passing process is executed (steps S311 and S312). Then, any one of steps S300 to S310 is performed. If none of the first start winning port switch 13a, the second start port switch 14a, and the third start port switch 17a are turned on, the start port switch passing process (step S312) is not executed, and the internal state is maintained. In response, any one of steps S300 to S310 is performed.

  The processes in steps S300 to S310 are as follows.

  Special symbol normal processing (step S300): Executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is zero. When the game control microcomputer 560 is in a state where the variable symbol special display can be started, the game control microcomputer 560 confirms the number of numerical data stored in the reserved storage buffer (total number of reserved storage). The stored number of numerical data stored in the hold storage buffer can be confirmed by the count value of the combined hold storage number counter. If the count value of the total pending storage number counter is not 0, it is determined whether or not the display result of the variable display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol is a big hit. In case of big hit, set big hit flag. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (1 in this example) according to step S301. The jackpot flag is reset when the jackpot game ends.

  Fluctuation pattern setting process (step S301): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 1. Also, the variation pattern is determined, and the variation time in the variation pattern (variable display time: the time from the start of variable display until the display result is derived and displayed (stop display)) is defined as the variation display variation time of the special symbol. Decide to do. Further, control is performed to transmit a variation pattern command corresponding to the determined variation pattern to the effect control microcomputer 100, and a variation time timer for measuring the variation time of the special symbol is started. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (2 in this example) corresponding to step S302.

  Display result designation command transmission process (step S302): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 2. Control for transmitting a display result designation command to the production control microcomputer 100 is performed. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (3 in this example) corresponding to step S303.

  Special symbol changing process (step S303): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 3. When the variation time of the variation pattern selected in the variation pattern setting process elapses (the variation time timer set in step S301 times out, that is, the variation time timer value becomes 0), the design control microcomputer 100 determines the symbol. Control to transmit the specified command is performed, and the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (4 in this example) corresponding to step S304. The effect control microcomputer 100 controls the effect display device 9 to stop the fourth symbol when receiving the symbol confirmation designation command transmitted by the game control microcomputer 560.

  Special symbol stop process (step S304): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 4. When the big hit flag is set, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (5 in this example) corresponding to step S305. If the small hit flag is set, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (8 in this example) corresponding to step S308. If neither the big hit flag nor the small hit flag is set, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S300 (in this example, 0). In this embodiment, as will be described later, a special symbol display control for stopping and displaying a special symbol stop symbol in the special symbol display control process based on the fact that the value of the special symbol process flag is 4. The data is set in the output buffer for setting the special symbol display control data (see FIG. 27), and the special symbol stop symbol is actually stopped and displayed in accordance with the setting contents of the output buffer in the display control processing in step S23.

  Preliminary winning opening opening process (step S305): This is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 5. In the pre-opening process for the big prize opening, control for opening the big prize opening is performed. Specifically, a counter (for example, a counter that counts the number of game balls that have entered the big prize opening) is initialized and the solenoid 21 is driven to open the big prize opening. In addition, control is performed to transmit the special winning opening open designation command to the production control microcomputer 100, the execution time of the special winning opening open processing is set by the timer, and the internal state (special symbol process flag) is set in step S306. To a value corresponding to (6 in this example). The pre-opening process for the big winning opening is executed for each round, but when the first round is started, the pre-opening process for the big winning opening is also a process for starting the big hit game.

  Large winning opening opening process (step S306): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 6. In the special prize opening opening process, a process for confirming the establishment of the closing condition of the special prize opening is performed. If the closing condition for the special prize opening is satisfied and there are still remaining rounds, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (5 in this example) corresponding to step S305. In addition, control is performed to transmit the designation command after the big hit release to the effect control microcomputer 100, and when all rounds are completed, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is set to a value corresponding to step S307 (this In the example, update to 7).

  Big hit end process (step S307): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 7. Control is performed to cause the microcomputer 100 for effect control to perform display control for notifying the player that the big hit gaming state has ended. Further, a process for setting a flag (for example, a probability variation flag) indicating a gaming state is performed. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (0 in this example) corresponding to step S300.

  Small hit release pre-processing (step S308): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 8. In the pre-opening process for small hits, control is performed to open the big prize opening. Specifically, a counter (for example, a counter that counts the number of game balls that have entered the big prize opening) is initialized and the solenoid 21 is driven to open the big prize opening. Also, the execution time of the special winning opening opening process is set by the timer, and the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S309 (9 in this example). Note that the pre-opening process for small hits is executed every time the big winning opening during the small hit game is opened. It is also a process to start.

  Small hit release processing (step S309): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 9. Processing to confirm the establishment of the closing condition of the big prize opening is performed. When the closing condition of the big prize opening is satisfied and the number of opening of the big prize opening still remains, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is set to a value (8 in this example) corresponding to step S308. Update. Further, when all the releases are completed, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (10 in this example) corresponding to step S310.

  Small hit end process (step S310): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 10. Control is performed to cause the microcomputer 100 for effect control to perform display control for notifying the player that the small hit gaming state has ended. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (0 in this example) corresponding to step S300.

  16 and 17 are flowcharts showing the start port switch passing process in step S312. In the start port switch passing process, the CPU 56 first checks whether or not the first start port switch 13a is in an ON state (step S1211). If the first start port switch 13a is not in the ON state, the process proceeds to step S1221. If the first start port switch 13a is in the on state, the CPU 56 adds 1 to the value of the first winning number counter for counting the number of times that the game ball has continuously won the first starting winning port 13 (step). S1212). Further, the CPU 56 clears the value of the second winning number counter for counting the number of times that the game ball has continuously won the second start winning opening 14 (step S1213). In other words, in this case, even if the game ball has been won in the second start winning opening 14 continuously to some extent and the value of the second winning number counter is 2 or more, Since the start winning to the winning opening 13 occurs and the continuous winning to the second starting winning opening 14 is interrupted, the value of the second winning number counter is cleared.

  Note that the processing of steps S1212 and S1213 is not performed immediately on the basis of the fact that the first start port switch 13a is in the on state, and the value of the first winning number counter is not counted. The value of the first winning number counter may be counted on condition that the value (4 in this example) has not been reached (that is, only the effective start winning number may be counted). Specifically, the process of steps S1212 and S1213 may be executed after determining N in step S1214. Conversely, the value of the first winning number counter may be counted only when the first reserved storage number reaches the upper limit (4 in this example) (that is, only the invalid start winning is counted). You may do it).

  Next, the CPU 56 determines whether or not the first reserved memory number has reached the upper limit value (specifically, whether or not the value of the first reserved memory number counter for counting the first reserved memory number is 4). ) Is confirmed (step S1214). If the first reserved storage number has reached the upper limit value, the process proceeds to step S1221.

  If the first reserved memory number has not reached the upper limit value, the CPU 56 increases the value of the first reserved memory number counter by 1 (step S1215), and the value of the total reserved memory number counter for counting the total reserved memory number Is increased by 1 (step S1216). In addition, the CPU 56 in the reserved storage specific information storage area (hold specific area) for storing the winning order to the first start winning opening 13 and the second start winning opening 14 (including the third start winning opening 17), Data indicating “first” is set in an area corresponding to the value of the total pending storage number counter (step S1217).

  In this embodiment, when the first start opening switch 13a is turned on (that is, when a game ball starts and wins the first start winning opening 13), data indicating “first” is set, When the second start port switch 14a is turned on (that is, when a game ball is won at the second start winning port 14) or when the third start port switch 17a is turned on (that is, the third When the game ball starts and wins at the start winning opening 17), data indicating “second” is set. For example, the CPU 56 sets 01 (H) as data indicating “first” when the first start port switch 13 a is turned on in the reserved storage specifying information storage area (holding specified area), and the first When the 2 start port switch 14a or the 3rd start port switch 17a is turned on, 02 (H) is set as data indicating “second”. In this case, when there is no corresponding reserved storage, 00 (H) is set in the reserved storage specific information storage area (hold specific area).

  FIG. 18A is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of a reserved storage specifying information storage area (holding specified area). As shown in FIG. 18A, an area corresponding to the maximum value (8 in this example) of the value of the total reserved memory number counter is secured in the reserved specific area. FIG. 18A shows an example in which the value of the total pending storage number counter is 5. As shown in FIG. 18A, an area corresponding to the maximum value (8 in this example) of the value of the total reserved memory number counter is secured in the reserved specific area. Data indicating “first” or “second” is set in the order of winning based on winning in the two starting winning ports 14 (including the third starting winning port 17). Accordingly, in the reserved storage specifying information storage area (holding specified area), the winning order to the first start winning port 13 and the second starting winning port 14 (including the third start winning port 17) is stored. Note that the reserved specific area is formed in the RAM 55.

  Next, the CPU 56 extracts values from the random number circuit 503 and a counter for generating software random numbers, and executes a process of storing them in a storage area in the first reserved storage buffer (see FIG. 18B) ( Step S1218). In the process of step S1218, a random R (big hit determination random number) that is a hardware random number, a big hit type determination random number (random 1) that is a software random number, a variation pattern type determination random number (random 2), and a variation pattern A random number for determination (random 3) is extracted and stored in the storage area. It should be noted that the random number for random pattern determination (random 3) is not extracted and stored in the storage area in advance in the start-port switch passing process (at the time of start winning), but is extracted at the start of the variation of the first special symbol. May be. For example, the game control microcomputer 560 may directly extract a value from a variation pattern determination random number counter for generating a variation pattern determination random number (random 3) in a variation pattern setting process described later.

  FIG. 18B is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of an area (holding storage buffer) for storing random numbers and the like corresponding to holding storage. As shown in FIG. 18B, a storage area corresponding to the upper limit value (4 in this example) of the first reserved storage number is secured in the first reserved storage buffer. In addition, a storage area corresponding to the upper limit value of the second reserved storage number (4 in this example) is secured in the second reserved storage buffer. In this embodiment, the first reserved storage buffer and the second reserved storage buffer include a random R (big hit determination random number) that is a hardware random number, a big hit type determination random number (random 1) that is a software random number, a variation A random number for pattern type determination (random 2) and a random number for variation pattern determination (random 3) are stored. The first reserved storage buffer and the second reserved storage buffer are formed in the RAM 55.

  Next, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit the first start winning designation command to the production control microcomputer 100 (step S1219), and sets the value of the total pending storage number counter to EXT data to set the total pending storage number designation command. Is transmitted to the production control microcomputer 100 (step S1220).

  Next, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the second start port switch 14a is in an on state (step S1221). If the second start port switch 14a is in the on state, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the probability variation flag is set (step S1222). If the probability variation flag is set (that is, if the probability variation state and the short time state (high base state)), the process proceeds to step S1224. If the probability variation flag is not set, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of a normal symbol process flag described later is 3 (step S1223). In this embodiment, if the value of the normal symbol process flag is 3 (when the normal electric accessory actuating process of the normal symbol process process to be described later is executed (see FIG. 26)), the process proceeds to step S1224. To do.

  If the probability variation flag is set in step S1222 or if the value of the normal symbol process flag is 3 in step S1223, the CPU 56 clears the value of the second winning number counter (step S1224). That is, the fact that the probability variation flag is set is controlled to the short-time state (high base state) and the frequency of the variable winning ball device 15 being in the open state is increased, so the state of the distribution device 200 Regardless of this, it is easy to win continuously at the second start winning opening 14. Therefore, in this case, the value of the second winning number counter is cleared, and control is performed so as not to determine that the winning order is abnormal. Further, the value of the normal symbol process flag is 3, and the fact that the normal electric accessory actuating process of the normal symbol process described later is being executed, the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is controlled to be in the open state. It is easy to win continuously at the second start winning opening 14. Therefore, also in this case, the value of the second winning number counter is cleared, and control is performed so as not to determine that the winning order is abnormal. Then, control goes to a step S1226.

  In this embodiment, there is shown a case where both the determination as to whether or not the state is a probability variation state (that is, the high base state) and the determination as to whether or not the variable winning ball device 15 is open are executed. However, only one of them may be executed. Specifically, only one of the determination process in step S1222 and the determination process in step S1223 may be executed.

  If the value of the normal symbol process flag is not 3, the CPU 56 adds 1 to the value of the second winning number counter (step S1225). Further, the CPU 56 clears the value of the first winning number counter (step S1226). That is, in this case, even if the game ball has won a certain number of consecutive wins in the first start winning opening 13 and the value of the first winning number counter is 2 or more before that, Since the start winning to the winning opening 14 occurs and the continuous winning to the first starting winning opening 13 is interrupted, the value of the first winning number counter is cleared. Then, control goes to a step S1228.

  Note that the processing of steps S1222 to S1226 is not immediately performed based on the fact that the second start port switch 14a is in the on state, and the value of the second winning number counter is not counted. The value of the second winning number counter may be counted on condition that the value (4 in this example) has not been reached (that is, only the effective start winning number may be counted). Specifically, after determining Y in step S1221, the same determination process as in step S1228 may be performed to determine N, and then the processes in steps S1222 to S1226 may be performed. Conversely, the value of the second winning number counter may be counted only when the second reserved memory number reaches the upper limit (4 in this example) (that is, only the invalid start winning is counted). You may do it).

  In this embodiment, the first winning number counter is continuously counted regardless of whether it is in the probability changing state (that is, the high base state) or whether the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is open. When it is determined that the winning order is abnormal based on the fact that the consecutive winning of the game balls to the first start winning opening 13 is detected during the state (that is, the high base state) or during the period when the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is opened. However, the count of the first winning number counter may be interrupted during the probability changing state (that is, the high base state) or during the period when the variable winning ball device 15 is opened. Then, it is determined that the winning order is abnormal when a consecutive winning of the game balls to the first start winning opening 13 is detected during the probability changing state (that is, the high base state) or during the opening of the variable winning ball apparatus 15. You may do it. Specifically, for example, the count is temporarily interrupted when the probability variation state (that is, the high base state) or the variable winning ball device 15 is in the open state after winning two balls continuously at the first start winning opening 13. When the probability variation state (that is, the high base state) and the open state of the variable winning ball apparatus 15 are finished, when two consecutive winnings are made in the first start winning opening 13 (the probability variation state (that is, the high base state) State) or during the opening of the variable winning ball apparatus 15, there is no winning in the second starting winning hole 14), and it is determined that the winning order is abnormal because it is determined that four balls have been consecutively won in the first starting winning hole 13 You may make it determine.

  If the second start port switch 14a is not in the on state, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the third start port switch 17a is in the on state (step S1227). If the third start port switch 17a is not in the ON state, the process is terminated as it is.

  If the value of the first winning number counter is cleared in step S1226, or if the third start port switch is in the on state in step S1227, the CPU 56 determines whether or not the second reserved memory number has reached the upper limit value (specifically, Is checked whether the value of the second reserved memory number counter for counting the second reserved memory number is 4) (step S1228). If the second reserved storage number has reached the upper limit value, the processing is terminated as it is.

  If the second reserved memory number has not reached the upper limit value, the CPU 56 increases the value of the second reserved memory number counter by 1 (step S1229) and the value of the aggregated reserved memory number counter for counting the total reserved memory number Is increased by 1 (step S1230). In addition, the CPU 56 sets data indicating “second” in an area corresponding to the value of the total reserved storage number counter in the reserved storage specific information storage area (hold specific area) (step S1231).

  Next, the CPU 56 extracts values from the random number circuit 503 and a counter for generating software random numbers, and executes processing for storing them in a storage area in the second reserved storage buffer (see FIG. 18B) (see FIG. 18B). Step S1232). In the process of step S1232, a random R (big hit determination random number) that is a hardware random number, a big hit type determination random number (random 1) that is a software random number, a variation pattern type determination random number (random 2), and a variation pattern A random number for determination (random 3) is extracted and stored in the storage area. It should be noted that the random number for random pattern determination (random 3) is not extracted and stored in the storage area in advance in the start-port switch passing process (at the time of start winning), but is extracted at the start of the variation of the second special symbol. May be. For example, the game control microcomputer 560 may directly extract a value from a variation pattern determination random number counter for generating a variation pattern determination random number (random 3) in a variation pattern setting process described later.

  Next, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit the second start winning designation command to the production control microcomputer 100 (step S1233), and sets the value of the total pending storage number counter to EXT data and sets the total pending storage number designation command. Is transmitted to the production control microcomputer 100 (step S1234).

  19 and 20 are flowcharts showing the special symbol normal process (step S300) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol normal process, the CPU 56 confirms the value of the total pending storage number (step S51). Specifically, the count value of the total pending storage number counter is confirmed. If the total pending storage number is 0, if the customer waiting demonstration designation command has not yet been transmitted, control is performed to send the customer waiting demonstration designation command to the production control microcomputer 100 (step S51A), and the processing is performed. finish. For example, when the CPU 56 transmits a customer waiting demonstration designation command in step S51A, the CPU 56 sets a customer waiting demonstration designation command transmitted flag indicating that the customer waiting demonstration designation command has been transmitted. When the special symbol normal processing after the next timer interruption is executed after sending the customer waiting demo designation command, the customer waiting demonstration request command is repeatedly set based on the fact that the customer waiting demo designation command transmission completed flag is set. Control should be performed so that the demo designation command is not transmitted. In this case, the customer waiting demonstration designation command transmission completion flag may be reset when the next special symbol variation display is started.

  In step S51, the CPU 56 does not check the value of the total reserved memory number, but checks whether or not data is set in the first area of the reserved specific area. If it is not set, it may be determined that there is no reserved storage, and the process may proceed to step S51A.

  If the total pending storage number is not 0, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the first data among the data set in the pending specific area (see FIG. 18A) is data indicating “first”. (Step S52). When the first data set in the reserved specific area is not data indicating “first” (that is, data indicating “second”) (N in step S52), the CPU 56 determines that the special symbol pointer (first Data indicating “second” is set in a flag indicating whether special symbol process processing is being performed for one special symbol or special symbol process processing is being performed for the second special symbol (step S53). When the first data set in the reserved specific area is data indicating “first” (Y in step S52), the CPU 56 sets data indicating “first” in the special symbol pointer (step S54). ).

  In this embodiment, by the processing of steps S52 to S54 being executed, the start in which the game ball has won the first start winning opening 13 and the second starting winning opening 14 (including the third starting winning opening 17). In accordance with the winning order, the variation display of the first special symbol or the variation display of the second special symbol is executed. In this embodiment, the variable display of the first special symbol is performed in accordance with the start winning order in which the game balls have won the first start winning opening 13 and the second starting winning opening 14 (including the third starting winning opening 17). Or although the case where the variable display of a 2nd special symbol is performed is shown, you may comprise so that a variable display of any one of a 1st special symbol and a 2nd special symbol may be performed preferentially. In this case, for example, when the state is shifted to the high base state, it is easy to start winning at the second starting winning port 14 provided with the variable winning ball device 15 and the second reserved memory is easily accumulated. The special symbol variation display may be executed with priority.

  Next, the CPU 56 reads out each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the reserved storage number = 1 indicated by the special symbol pointer in the RAM 55 and stores it in the random number buffer area of the RAM 55 (step S55). Specifically, when the special symbol pointer indicates “first”, the CPU 56 determines each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the first reserved memory number = 1 in the first reserved memory buffer. Is stored in the random number buffer area of the RAM 55. In addition, when the special symbol pointer indicates “second”, the CPU 56 reads out each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the second reserved memory number = 1 in the second reserved memory buffer. Store in the random number buffer area of the RAM 55.

  Then, the CPU 56 decrements the count value of the reserved memory number counter indicated by the special symbol pointer and shifts the contents of each storage area (step S56). Specifically, when the special symbol pointer indicates “first”, the CPU 56 subtracts 1 from the count value of the first reserved memory number counter, and in the reserved specific area and the first reserved memory buffer. Shift the contents of each storage area. In addition, when the special symbol pointer indicates “second”, the count value of the second reserved memory number counter is decremented by 1, and the contents of each storage area in the reserved specific area and the second reserved memory buffer are shifted. To do.

  That is, when the special symbol pointer indicates “first”, the CPU 56 stores the first reserved memory number = n (n = 2, 3, 4) in the first reserved memory buffer of the RAM 55. Each stored random number value is stored in a storage area corresponding to the first reserved memory number = n−1. Further, when the special symbol pointer indicates “second”, each stored in the storage area corresponding to the second reserved memory number = n (n = 2, 3, 4) in the second reserved memory buffer of the RAM 55. The random value is stored in the storage area corresponding to the second reserved memory number = n−1. In addition, the CPU 56 adds the values (values indicating “first” or “second”) stored in the storage area corresponding to the total reserved storage number = m (m = 2 to 8) in the reserved specific area. Store in the storage area corresponding to the number of reserved storage = m−1.

  Therefore, the order in which each random value stored in each storage area corresponding to each first reserved memory number (or each second reserved memory number) is extracted is always the first reserved memory number (or (Second reserved storage number) = 1, 2, 3, 4 in order. Further, the order in which the values stored in the respective storage areas corresponding to the total number of pending storages are extracted always matches the order of the total number of pending storages = 1-8.

  Then, the CPU 56 decreases the value of the total pending storage number by one. That is, 1 is subtracted from the count value of the total pending storage number counter (step S58). The CPU 56 stores the value of the total pending storage number counter before the count value is decremented by 1 in a predetermined area of the RAM 55.

  Moreover, CPU56 performs control which transmits a background designation | designated command to the microcomputer 100 for effect control according to the present game state (step S60). In this case, when the probability variation flag indicating the probability variation state is set, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a probability variation state background designation command. Further, if the probability variation flag is not set, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a normal state background designation command.

  In the special symbol normal process, first, data indicating “first” indicating that the process is executed for the first start winning opening 13, that is, “first” indicating that the process is executed for the first special symbol. ”Or“ second ”indicating that the process is performed on the second special symbol, that is,“ second ”indicating that the process is performed on the second start winning opening 14. Data is set in the special symbol pointer. In the subsequent processing in the special symbol process, processing corresponding to the data set in the special symbol pointer is executed. Therefore, the process of steps S300 to S310 can be made common between the case of targeting the first special symbol and the case of targeting the second special symbol.

  Next, the CPU 56 reads a random R (a jackpot determination random number) from the random number buffer area and executes a jackpot determination module. In this case, the CPU 56 reads the jackpot determination random number extracted in step S1216 or step S1232 of the start port switch passing process and stored in advance in the first hold storage buffer or the second hold storage buffer, and performs the jackpot determination. The big hit determination module compares a big hit determination value or a small hit determination value (see FIG. 12) determined in advance with a big hit determination random number, and executes a process of determining a big hit or a small hit if they match. It is a program to do. That is, it is a program that executes a big hit determination or a small hit determination process.

  The big hit determination process is configured such that when the gaming state is in a probable change state, the probability of a big hit is higher than in the case where the gaming state is in a non-probability change state (normal state). Specifically, a jackpot determination table (a table in which the numerical value on the right side of FIG. 12A in the ROM 54 is set) in which a large number of jackpot determination values are set in advance and the number of jackpot determination values are definitely changed. There is provided a normal big hit determination table (a table in which the numerical values on the left side of FIG. 12A in the ROM 54 are set) set to be smaller than the hour big hit determination table. Then, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the gaming state is a probability variation state. If the gaming state is a probability variation state, the jackpot determination process is performed using the probability variation jackpot determination table, and the gaming state is normal. When it is in the state, the big hit determination process is performed using the normal big hit determination table. That is, when the value of the big hit determination random number (random R) matches one of the big hit determination values shown in FIG. 12A, the CPU 56 determines that the special symbol is a big hit. When it is determined to be a big hit (step S61), the process proceeds to step S71. Note that deciding whether to win or not is to decide whether or not to shift to the big hit gaming state, but to decide whether or not to stop the special symbol display as a big hit symbol. There is also.

  Note that whether or not the current gaming state is the probability variation state is determined by whether or not the probability variation flag is set. The probability variation flag is set when the gaming state is shifted to the probability variation state, and is reset when the probability variation state is terminated. Specifically, it is determined to be “15R probability change big hit”, “7R probability change big hit” or “sudden probability change big hit”, and is set in the process of ending the big hit game. Then, after the big hit game is over, it is reset when the variable display is finished a predetermined number of times (70 times in this embodiment).

  If the value of the big hit determination random number (random R) does not match any of the big hit determination values (N in step S61), the CPU 56 uses the small hit determination table (see FIGS. 12B and 12C). Then, the small hit determination process is performed. That is, when the value of the big hit determination random number (random R) matches one of the small hit determination values shown in FIGS. 12B and 12C, the CPU 56 determines that the special symbol is to be a small hit. In this case, the CPU 56 confirms the data indicated by the special symbol pointer. If the data indicated by the special symbol pointer is “first”, the small hit determination table (for the first special symbol) shown in FIG. ) To determine whether or not to make a small hit. If the data indicated by the special symbol pointer is “second”, it is determined whether or not to make a small hit using the small hit determination table (for the second special symbol) shown in FIG. . If it is determined to be a small hit (step S62), the CPU 56 sets a small hit flag indicating a small hit (step S63), and proceeds to step S75.

  If the value of the random R does not match either the big hit determination value or the small hit determination value (N in step S62), that is, if it is out of place, the process proceeds to step S75 as it is.

  In step S71, the CPU 56 sets a big hit flag indicating that it is a big hit. Then, the jackpot type determination table indicated by the special symbol pointer is selected as a table used to determine the jackpot type as one of a plurality of types (step S72). Specifically, when the special symbol pointer indicates “first”, the CPU 56 selects the jackpot type determination table 131a for the first special symbol shown in FIG. Further, when the special symbol pointer indicates “second”, the CPU 56 selects the jackpot type determination table 131b for the second special symbol shown in FIG.

  Next, the CPU 56 uses the selected jackpot type determination table to select a type corresponding to the value of the random number (random 1) for determining the big hit type stored in the random number buffer area (“15R probability variation big hit”, “ 7R probability change big hit "or" sudden probability change big hit ") is determined as the type of big hit (step S73). In this case, the CPU 56 reads out the jackpot type determination random number extracted in step S1218 or step S1232 of the start port switch passing process and stored in advance in the first hold memory buffer or the second hold memory buffer, and determines the jackpot type. Do. Further, in this case, as shown in FIGS. 12D and 12E, when the variable display of the first special symbol is executed, it is compared with the case where the variable display of the second special symbol is executed. Therefore, the rate at which suddenly probable big hits are selected is high. Also, as shown in FIGS. 12D and 12E, when the variation display of the second special symbol is executed, the 15R probability variation is compared with the case where the variation display of the first special symbol is executed. The rate at which jackpots are selected is high.

  Further, the CPU 56 sets data indicating the determined jackpot type in the jackpot type buffer in the RAM 55 (step S74). For example, when the big hit type is “15R probability variable big hit”, “01” is set as data indicating the big hit type, and when the big hit type is “7R probability variable big hit”, “02” is set as the data indicating the big hit type. When the big hit type is “suddenly probable big hit”, “03” is set as data indicating the big hit type.

  Next, the CPU 56 determines a special symbol stop symbol (step S75). Specifically, when neither the big hit flag nor the small hit flag is set, “−” which is a loss symbol is determined as a special symbol stop symbol. When the big hit flag is set, one of “1”, “3”, and “7”, which is a big hit symbol, is determined as a special symbol stop symbol according to the determination result of the big hit type. That is, when the big hit type is determined to be “suddenly promising big hit”, “1” is decided as a special symbol stop symbol, and when “7R probable big hit” is decided, “3” is designated as a special symbol stop symbol. If “15R probability variation big hit” is determined, “7” is determined as a special symbol stop symbol. When the small hit flag is set, “5” as the small hit symbol is determined as the special symbol stop symbol.

  In this embodiment, the case where the jackpot type is first determined and the stop symbol of the special symbol corresponding to the determined jackpot type is shown, but the method for determining the jackpot type and the stop symbol of the special symbol is as follows. It is not limited to what is shown in the embodiment. For example, a table in which a special symbol stop symbol and a jackpot type are associated in advance is prepared, and when a special symbol stop symbol is first determined based on the random number for determining the big hit type, the corresponding jackpot is determined based on the determination result. You may comprise so that a classification may also be determined.

  Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the variation pattern setting process (step S301) (step S76).

  FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing the variation pattern setting process (step S301) in the special symbol process. In the variation pattern setting process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the big hit flag is set (step S91). When the big hit flag is set, the CPU 56 uses any one of the big hit variation pattern type determination table corresponding to the big hit type as a table used to determine the variation pattern type as one of a plurality of types. Is selected (step S92). Then, the process proceeds to step S102.

  When the big hit flag is not set, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the small hit flag is set (step S93). When the small hit flag is set, the CPU 56 selects the small hit variation pattern type determination table as a table used to determine one of a plurality of variation pattern types (step S94). ). Then, the process proceeds to step S102.

  When the small hit flag is not set, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the probability variation flag is set (step S96). If the probability change flag is not set (N in Step S96), the CPU 56 checks whether or not the total number of pending storages is 3 or more (Step S97). If the total number of pending storages is less than 3 (N in step S97), the CPU 56 uses the normal variation pattern type determination as a table used to determine the variation pattern type as one of a plurality of types. A table is selected (step S98). Then, the process proceeds to step S102.

  When the total pending storage number is 3 or more (Y in step S97), the CPU 56 uses the shortening variation pattern as a table to be used for determining one of a plurality of variation pattern types. A type determination table is selected (step S99). Then, the process proceeds to step S102.

  If the probability change flag is set (Y in step S96), that is, if the gaming state is a probability change state and a short time state (high base state), the CPU 56 selects one of a plurality of types of variation pattern types. As the table used to determine the time, the deviation pattern type determination table for time reduction is selected (step S100). Then, the process proceeds to step S102.

  In this embodiment, by executing the processing of steps S96 to S100, if the gaming state is the normal state and the total number of pending storages is 3 or more, the shortening variation pattern type determination table for shortening Is selected. In addition, when the gaming state is a probable change state and a short time state (high base state), a short time use variation pattern type determination table is selected. In this case, a variation pattern type for shortening variation may be determined in the process of step S102 described later. If a variation pattern type for shortening variation is determined, the variation for shortening variation is processed in step S104. A pattern is determined. Therefore, in this embodiment, when the gaming state is a probabilistic state and a short time state (high base state), or when the total number of pending storages is 3 or more, a variation display of the shortening variation may be performed. In this embodiment, a case is shown in which the variation pattern type determination table for shortening variation used in the probability variation state and the short time state is different from the variation pattern type determination table for shortening variation based on the number of reserved storage. However, a common table may be used as the variation pattern type determination table for shortening variation.

  In this embodiment, the case is shown in which it is determined in step S97 whether or not the total number of pending storages is 3 or more and the variation pattern of the shortened variation can be determined. Compared with the total number of pending storages The judgment value to be performed is not limited to 3. For example, in this embodiment, since the first special symbol variation display and the second special symbol variation display are executed in order of winning, the first special symbol or the second special symbol variation display is preferentially executed. Compared to the case, the total number of reserved storage tends to be accumulated. Accordingly, in step S97, a larger determination value (for example, 5) may be compared with the total number of pending storages so that the variation pattern of the shortening variation can be determined.

  In this embodiment, even when the gaming state is a probabilistic state or a short time state, when the total number of pending storage is almost 0 (for example, 0, 0 or 1). May not display the variation display of the shortened variation. In this case, for example, when the CPU 56 determines Y in step S96, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the total number of reserved storage is almost zero. A variation pattern type determination table may be selected.

  Next, the CPU 56 reads random 2 (random number for variation pattern type determination) from the random number buffer area (first reserved storage buffer or second reserved storage buffer), and selects it in the process of steps S92, S94, S98, S99 or S100. By referring to the table, the variation pattern type is determined as one of a plurality of types (step S102).

  Next, based on the determination result of the variation pattern type in step S102, the CPU 56 uses a hit variation pattern determination table and an outlier variation pattern determination table as tables used to determine one of a plurality of variation patterns. One of them is selected (step S103). Further, the random pattern 3 (random number for variation pattern determination) is read from the random number buffer area (first reserved storage buffer or second reserved storage buffer), and the variation pattern is determined by referring to the variation pattern determination table selected in step S103. Is determined as one of a plurality of types (step S104). When the random number 3 (variation pattern determination random number) is not extracted at the timing of the start winning prize, the CPU 56 uses the variation pattern determination random number counter for generating the variation pattern determination random number (random 3). The value may be directly extracted from the data, and the variation pattern may be determined based on the extracted random number value.

  Next, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit the symbol variation designation command indicated by the special symbol pointer to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S105). Specifically, when the special symbol pointer indicates “first”, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a first symbol variation designation command. In addition, when the special symbol pointer indicates “second”, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a second symbol variation designation command. Further, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit an effect control command (variation pattern command) corresponding to the determined change pattern to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S106).

  Next, the CPU 56 sets a value corresponding to the variation time corresponding to the selected variation pattern in the variation time timer formed in the RAM 55 (step S107). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the display result designation command transmission process (step S302) (step S108).

  In the case where it is determined to be out of place, instead of suddenly determining the variation pattern type, first, it may be determined whether or not to reach by a lottery process using a random number for reach determination. Then, based on the determination result as to whether or not to reach, the processing of steps S95 to S102 may be executed to determine the variation pattern type. In this case, a variation pattern type determination table for non-reach and a variation pattern type determination table for reach are prepared in advance, and one of the variation pattern type determination tables is selected based on the reach determination result. The variation pattern type may be determined.

  In this embodiment, the variation pattern type is first determined using the random number for variation pattern type determination (random 2), and included in the determined variation pattern type using the random number for variation pattern determination (random 3). By determining any one of the variation patterns, the variation pattern is determined by a two-stage lottery process, and the variation pattern indicating the variation mode such as the determined variation time, the type of reach production, and the presence or absence of pseudo-continuous is controlled. In order to notify the microcomputer 100 for use, the case where one variation pattern command is transmitted when the variation is started has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to such a mode. For example, the variation pattern may be notified to the effect control microcomputer 100 by two or more commands.

  Specifically, in the case of notifying by two commands, the game control microcomputer 560 (specifically, the CPU 56) determines whether or not there is a pseudo-continuation in the first command in the variation pattern setting process shown in FIG. A command indicating the first variation time and variation mode before the reach (such as before the so-called second stop if the reach is not reached), such as the presence or absence of a slip effect. The second command determines the variation time and the execution mode of the effect after reaching the reach (after the so-called second stop if the reach is not reached), such as the type of reach and the presence / absence of the redrawing effect. And you may make it transmit the command which shows the execution mode of those 2nd fluctuation | variation time and production which were determined. In this case, the effect control microcomputer 100 may perform effect control in variable display based on the variable time derived from the combination of two commands. The game control microcomputer 560 notifies the change time by each of the two commands, and the effect control microcomputer 100 selects the specific change mode executed at each timing. It may be. When sending two commands, two commands may be sent within the same timer interrupt. After sending the first command, a certain period of time has passed (for example, the next timer interrupt). The second command may be transmitted. Note that the variation mode indicated by each command is not limited to this example, and the order of transmission can be appropriately changed. In this way, by notifying the variation pattern by two or more commands, the amount of data that must be stored as the variation pattern command can be reduced.

  FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing the display result designation command transmission process (step S302). In the display result designation command transmission process, the CPU 56 transmits one of the presentation control commands (display result 1 designation to display result 5 designation) (see FIG. 13) according to the determined type of big hit, small hit, and loss. Control. Specifically, the CPU 56 first checks whether or not the big hit flag is set (step S110). If not set, the process proceeds to step S116. When the big hit flag is set, if the big hit type is “15R probability variable big hit”, control is performed to transmit a display result 2 designation command (steps S111 and S112). Whether or not it is “15R probability variation big hit” is specifically determined by checking whether or not the data set in the big hit type buffer in step S74 of the special symbol normal processing is “01”. it can. Further, when the big hit type is “7R probability variation big hit”, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a display result 3 designation command (steps S113 and S114). Whether or not it is “7R probability variation big hit” is specifically determined by checking whether or not the data set in the big hit type buffer in step S74 of the special symbol normal processing is “02”. it can. Then, when neither the “15R probability variation big hit” nor the “7R probability variation big hit” (that is, “the sudden probability variation big hit”), the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a display result 4 designation command (step S115).

  On the other hand, when the big hit flag is not set (N in step S110), the CPU 56 checks whether or not the small hit flag is set (step S116). If the small hit flag is set, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a display result 5 designation command (step S117). When the small hit flag is not set (N in Step S116), that is, when it is out of place, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a display result 1 designation command (Step S118).

  Then, the CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the special symbol changing process (step S303) (step S119).

  FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing the special symbol changing process (step S303) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol changing process, the CPU 56 first checks whether or not the total pending storage number subtraction designation command has already been transmitted (step S1121). Whether or not the total pending storage number subtraction designation command has already been transmitted is determined by, for example, transmitting the total pending storage number subtraction designation command when transmitting the total pending storage number subtraction designation command in step S1122 described later. It is sufficient to set whether or not the total pending storage number subtraction designation command transmitted flag is set, and whether or not the total pending storage number subtraction designation command transmitted flag is set in step S1121. Further, in this case, the set total pending storage number subtraction designation command transmission completion flag is reset by special symbol stop processing or jackpot end processing, which will be described later, when the special symbol variation display is ended or when the big jackpot is ended. do it.

  Next, if the total pending storage number subtraction designation command has not been transmitted, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit the total pending storage number subtraction designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S1122).

  Next, the CPU 56 subtracts 1 from the variable time timer (step S1125). When the variable time timer times out (step S1126), the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a symbol confirmation designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S1127). Then, the CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the special symbol stop process (step S304) (step S1128). If the variable time timer has not timed out, the process ends.

  FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing the special symbol stop process (step S304) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol stop process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the big hit flag is set (step S131). If the big hit flag is set, the CPU 56 resets the probability variation flag indicating the probability variation state and the probability variation counter indicating the number of times the special symbol can be varied in the probability variation state if the flag is set (step). S132). Further, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a big hit start designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S134). Specifically, when the type of jackpot is “15R probability variation jackpot” or “7R probability variation jackpot”, a jackpot start designation command (command A001 (H)) is transmitted. When the big hit type is sudden probability change big hit, a small hit / sudden probability change big hit start designation command (command A002 (H)) is transmitted. Whether the big hit type is “15R probability variation big hit”, “7R probability variation big hit” or “sudden probability variation big hit” is a data indicating the big hit type stored in the RAM 55 (stored in the big hit type buffer). Data).

  In addition, a value corresponding to the jackpot display time (a time for which the effect display device 9 notifies that the jackpot has occurred, for example) is set in the jackpot display time timer (step S135). Also, the number of times of opening the winning prize opening counter (for example, “15R probability variation big hit” is 15 times, “7R probability variation big hit” is 7 times, and “sudden probability variation big hit” is 2 times. ) Is set (step S136). In addition, the round time per round in the jackpot game is also set. Specifically, 0.1 seconds is set as the round time in the case of sudden probability variation big hit, and 29 seconds is set as the round time in the case of 15R probability variation big hit or 7R probability variation big hit. Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the pre-winner opening pre-processing (step S305) (step S137).

  On the other hand, if the big hit flag is not set in step S131, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the probability variation counter indicating the number of possible variations of the special symbol in the probability variation state is 0 (step S141). If the value of the probability variation counter is not 0, the CPU 56 decrements the value of the probability variation counter by −1 (step S142). When the value of the probability variation counter after subtraction becomes 0 (step S143), the CPU 56 resets the probability variation flag (step S144).

  Next, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the small hit flag is set (step S145). If the small hit flag is set, the CPU 56 transmits a small hit / sudden probability sudden change big hit start designation command (command A002 (H)) to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S146). Further, a value corresponding to the small hit display time (for example, a time when the effect display device 9 notifies that the small hit has occurred) is set in the small hit display time timer (step S147). Further, the number of times of opening (for example, 2 times) is set in the special winning opening opening number counter (step S148). In addition, the opening time per time of the big winning opening in the small hit game is set. Specifically, 0.1 seconds which is the same as the round time for the sudden probability change big hit is set as the opening time for one big winning opening in the small hit game. Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the small hit start pre-processing (step S308) (step S149).

  If the small hit flag is not set (N in step S145), the CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the special symbol normal process (step S300) (step S150).

  FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing the jackpot end process (step S307) in the special symbol process. In the jackpot end process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the jackpot end display timer is set (step S160). If the jackpot end display timer is set, the process proceeds to step S164. If the jackpot end display timer is not set, the jackpot flag is reset (step S161), and control for transmitting a jackpot end designation command is performed (step S162). Here, in the case of “15R probability variation big hit” or “7R probability variation big hit”, a big hit end designation command (command A301 (H)) is transmitted, and in the case of “sudden probability variation big hit”, small hit / sudden A probability variation jackpot end designation command (command A302 (H)) is transmitted. Then, a value corresponding to the display time corresponding to the time during which the big hit end display is performed in the effect display device 9 (big hit end display time) is set in the big hit end display timer (step S163), and the processing is ended.

  In step S164, 1 is subtracted from the value of the big hit end display timer (step S164). Then, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the jackpot end display timer is 0, that is, whether or not the jackpot end display time has elapsed (step S165). If not, the process ends.

  If the big hit end display time has elapsed (Y in step S165), the CPU 56 sets the probability variation flag and shifts to the probability variation state (step S166). In this embodiment, when the probability variation flag is set, the probability variation state is controlled and the time-short state (high base state) is also controlled. Further, the CPU 56 sets a predetermined number of times (in this example, 70 times) in the probability variation counter (step S167).

  It is also possible to set a time reduction flag indicating that the time reduction state is set so that the probability variation state management and the time reduction state management are performed separately. Further, in this embodiment, after the big hit game is finished and the state is shifted to the probability variation state and the time reduction state, when the variation display of the same number of times (70 times in this example) is terminated, both the probability variation state and the time reduction state are terminated. Although the case has been shown, the number of end times in the probability variation state may be different from the number of end times in the time reduction state.

  Then, the CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the special symbol normal process (step S300) (step S170).

  Next, the normal symbol process (step S28) executed by the game control microcomputer 560 (specifically, the CPU 56) will be described. FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing an example of the normal symbol process. In the normal symbol process, when detecting that the game ball has passed through the gate 32 and the gate switch 32a is turned on (step S511), the CPU 56 executes a gate switch passage process (step S512). Then, the CPU 56 executes any one of the processes shown in steps S500 to S503 according to the value of the normal symbol process flag.

  Gate switch passage processing (step S512): The CPU 56 checks whether or not the count value (gate passage storage number) of the gate passage storage counter has reached the maximum value ("4" in this example). If the maximum value has not been reached, the count value of the gate passage storage counter is incremented by one. Note that the LED of the normal symbol storage memory display 41 is turned on according to the value of the gate passage storage counter. Then, the CPU 56 performs processing for extracting the value of the random number for normal symbol determination (random 4) and storing it in the storage area (normal symbol determination buffer) corresponding to the value of the number of passages through the gate.

  Normal symbol normal processing (step S500): The CPU 56 can start the variation of the normal symbol (for example, when the value of the normal symbol process flag is a value indicating step S500, specifically, the normal symbol When the display 10 does not display the change of the normal symbol and when the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is not in the open / close operation based on the normal symbol display 10 having been derived and displayed) Check the memory count value. Specifically, the count value of the gate passing memory number counter is confirmed. If the gate passing memory number is not 0, it is determined whether or not to win (whether or not to stop the normal symbol as a winning symbol). Then, the normal symbol variation time is set in the normal symbol process timer, and the timer is started. Then, the value of the normal symbol process flag is updated to a value (specifically “1”) indicating the normal symbol variation process (step S501).

  Normal symbol variation processing (step S501): The CPU 56 checks whether or not the normal symbol process timer has timed out, and if it has timed out, stops the variation of the normal symbol on the normal symbol display 10 and sets the normal symbol process timer to normal. Set the symbol stop symbol display time and start the timer. Then, the value of the normal symbol process flag is updated to a value (specifically “2”) indicating the normal symbol stop process (step S502).

  Normal symbol stop process (step S502): The CPU 56 checks whether or not the normal symbol process timer has timed out, and if it has timed out, checks whether the stop symbol of the normal symbol is a winning symbol. If it is not a winning symbol (if it is a missing symbol), the value of the normal symbol process flag is updated to a value (specifically “0”) indicating the normal symbol normal process (step S500). On the other hand, if the stop symbol of the normal symbol is a winning symbol, the normal electric accessory operating time is set in the normal symbol process timer, and the timer is started. In addition, it is confirmed whether or not the current gaming state is a probable change state, and if it is a probable change state (ie, a high base state), an ordinary electric accessory (variable winning ball apparatus) in the probable change state (high base state) 15) Select the opening pattern, and if it is not the probability variation state (that is, if it is in the low base state), select the opening pattern of the ordinary electric accessory (variable winning ball apparatus 15) in the low base state and select it. Set the open pattern. Then, the value of the normal symbol process flag is updated to a value (specifically “3”) indicating the normal electric accessory operation processing (step S503).

  Normal electric accessory operation processing (step S103): The CPU 56 opens the normal electric accessory with the set opening pattern on the condition that the normal symbol process timer has not timed out (opening / closing of the variable winning ball apparatus 15). Execute the normal electric accessory release pattern process. In this embodiment, it is assumed that the variable payball apparatus 15 has a longer open period in the probability variation state (ie, the high base state) than in the low base state. When the normal symbol process timer times out, the value of the normal symbol process flag is updated to a value (specifically, “0”) indicating the normal symbol normal process (step S500).

  FIG. 27 is a flowchart showing an example of a special symbol display control process (step S33) executed by the game control microcomputer 560 (specifically, the CPU 56) mounted on the main board 31. In the special symbol display control process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the special symbol process flag is 3 (step S3201). If the value of the special symbol process flag is 3 (that is, if the special symbol variation processing is being executed), the CPU 56 sets the special symbol display control data for special symbol variation display for setting the special symbol display control data. Processing for setting or updating the output buffer is performed (step S3202). In this case, the CPU 56 sets or updates special symbol display control data for performing variable display of the special symbol (the first special symbol or the second special symbol) indicated by the special symbol pointer. For example, if the fluctuation speed is 1 frame / 0.2 seconds, the value of the special symbol display control data set in the output buffer is incremented by 1 every time 0.2 seconds elapse. After that, display control processing (see step S23) is executed, and a drive signal is output to the special symbol displays 8a and 8b according to the contents of the output buffer for setting the special symbol display control data. The special symbol display on the special symbol indicators 8a and 8b is executed.

  If the value of the special symbol process flag is not 3, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the special symbol process flag is 4 (step S3203). If the value of the special symbol process flag is 4 (that is, when the special symbol stop processing is entered), the CPU 56 stops the special symbol stop symbol set in the special symbol normal processing. Processing for setting the display control data in the output buffer for setting the special symbol display control data is performed (step S3204). In this case, the CPU 56 sets special symbol display control data for stopping and displaying the stop symbol of the special symbol (the first special symbol or the second special symbol) indicated by the special symbol pointer. After that, display control processing (see step S23) is executed, and a drive signal is output to the special symbol displays 8a and 8b according to the contents of the output buffer for setting the special symbol display control data. The special symbol stop symbols are stopped and displayed on the special symbol indicators 8a and 8b. In addition, since the setting data is not changed after the processing of step S3204 is executed and the special symbol display control data for stopping symbol display is set, the latest special symbol display control data is displayed in the display control processing of step S23. Based on this, the latest stop symbol is stopped and displayed until the next variable display is started. If the value of the special symbol process flag is 2 or 3 in step S3201 (that is, if either the display result designation command transmission process or the special symbol variation process), the special symbol variation display is performed. The special symbol display control data may be updated. In this case, the display result designation command transmission process also varies in order to prevent a deviation between the variation time recognized on the game control microcomputer 560 side and the variation time recognized on the effect control microcomputer 100 side. What is necessary is just to comprise so that 1 may subtract a time timer.

  In this embodiment, the special symbol display control data is set in the output buffer according to the value of the special symbol process flag. However, in the special symbol process, the start flag is set at the start of the variation of the special symbol. In addition, an end flag may be set at the end of the variation of the special symbol. In the special symbol display control process (step S33), the CPU 56 starts updating the value of the special symbol display control data based on the start flag being set, and based on the end flag being set. Thus, special symbol display control data for stopping and displaying the stop symbol may be set.

  FIG. 28 is a flowchart showing the winning order abnormality notifying process in step S22. In the winning order abnormality notification process, the game control microcomputer 560 (specifically, the CPU 56) checks whether or not the value of the first winning number counter is 4 or more (step S250). If the value of the first winning number counter is 4 or more, the CPU 56 clears the value of the first winning number counter (step S251), and proceeds to step S254. If the value of the first winning number counter is not 4 or more, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the second winning number counter is 4 or more (step S252). If the value of the second winning number counter is 4 or more, the CPU 56 clears the value of the second winning number counter (step S253), and proceeds to step S254. If the value of the second winning number counter is not 4 or more, the process is terminated as it is.

Next, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a winning order abnormality notification designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S254). Further, the CPU 56 sets a predetermined time (in this example, 30 seconds) in the security signal information timer (step S255). In this embodiment, the information output process (see S30) is executed based on the fact that the predetermined time is set in the security signal information timer in step S255, so that the security signal is generated for a predetermined time (in this example, 30). Second) is output externally.
That is, when the value of the first winning number counter or the second winning number counter is 4 or more (Y in Steps S250 and S252), 4 continuously from the first start winning port 13 or the second starting winning port 14. It is determined that a winning order abnormality has occurred due to the occurrence of the above winnings, and control for transmitting a winning order abnormality notification designation command is performed in order to perform a winning order abnormality notification, and a security signal is transmitted for a predetermined period (in this example). , 30 seconds) Perform processing for external output.

  In this embodiment, the case where it is determined that the winning order is abnormal for both the case where the first start winning opening 13 is continuously won and the case where the second starting winning opening 14 is continuously won is shown. The winning order may be determined to be abnormal only in one of the cases where the first start winning opening 13 is continuously won and the second start winning opening 14 is continuously won. .

  Further, in this embodiment, when the first start winning opening 13 is continuously won and the winning order is abnormal, and when the second starting winning opening 14 is continuously won and the winning order is abnormal, In the above, the case where a common command is transmitted as the winning order abnormality notification designation command is shown. However, when the winning order is abnormal after consecutively winning the first starting winning opening 13 and the second starting winning opening 14 is continuous. Then, a winning order abnormality notification designating command may be transmitted so as to be distinguishable from the case where the winning order is abnormal. Specifically, when a winning is made consecutively at the first start winning opening 13 and the winning order is abnormal, a first winning order abnormality notification designating command is transmitted, and the second starting winning opening 14 is continuously received. If the winning order becomes abnormal after winning a prize, a second winning order abnormality notification designation command may be transmitted.

  In this embodiment, the case where the determination value to be compared with the first winning number counter or the second winning number counter is 4 is shown. However, the determination value is not limited to the value shown in this embodiment, and for example, step S250. , Other values may be used as the determination value, such as determining whether the value of the first winning number counter or the second winning number counter is 5 or more. Further, for example, in steps S250 and S252, it is determined whether or not the value of the first winning number counter or the second winning number counter is 2 or more, so that the first start winning port 13 or the second starting winning port 14 is determined. If even one ball wins continuously, it may be determined that the winning order is abnormal immediately. However, in this embodiment, the determination criterion is given a margin by determining that the winning order is abnormal on the condition that four balls have been consecutively won at the first start winning opening 13 or the second starting winning opening 14. This prevents erroneous determination.

  Further, in this embodiment, the case where the determination of abnormality in winning order is executed on the game control microcomputer 560 side, but it may be executed on the effect control microcomputer 100 side. In this case, for example, the game control microcomputer 560 has a command indicating that there is a new start prize in the first start prize opening 13 or a command indicating that there is a new start prize in the second start prize slot 14. And the production control microcomputer 100 executes the same processing as steps S1212, S1213, S1222 to S1226 on the basis of the reception of those commands, so that the continuation to the first start winning opening 13 is performed. It is only necessary to count the number of winnings and the number of consecutive winnings to the second start winning opening 14, and determine the winning order abnormality by performing the same process as the winning order abnormality notifying process shown in FIG.

  FIG. 29 is a block diagram showing various signals output to the terminal board 160. As shown in FIG. 29, in this embodiment, the game control microcomputer 560 mounted on the main board 31 is connected to the terminal board 160 with one symbol determination number of signals, a start port signal, one jackpot signal, one jackpot. Two signals, three jackpot signals, a time reduction signal, a winning signal, and a security signal are output by the information output process (see step S31) on the game control microcomputer 560 side. In this embodiment, the prize ball information is sent from the payout control microcomputer 370 mounted on the payout control board 37 to the terminal board 160 via the main board 31. It is output by the information output process on the 370 side.

  The symbol determination number 1 signal is a signal for notifying the number of changes in the special symbol. The start port signal is a signal for notifying the number of winnings to the start winning ports 13, 14, and 17. The jackpot 1 signal is a signal for notifying that the jackpot game (during the operation of the special variable winning ball apparatus) is in progress. The jackpot 2 signal is a signal for notifying that the jackpot game (during the operation of the special variable winning ball apparatus) or that the special symbol variation time shortening function is in operation (during the short-time state). The jackpot 3 signal is a signal for notifying that a 15-round jackpot game is in progress. The time reduction signal is a signal for notifying that the special symbol variation time reduction function is operating (in the time reduction state).

  In addition, as described above, the winning signal indicates that a predetermined payout condition for paying out a predetermined number of prize balls (in this embodiment, 10 balls) has been established (start winning prize opening 13, 14, 17. The winning of the big prize opening has occurred, and the prize balls have not been paid out, specifically, the detection signals from the proximity switches (count switch 23, start opening switches 13a, 14a, 17a) This is a signal indicating that it has been determined that a predetermined payout condition has been established on the condition that it has been input.

  The security signal is a signal indicating the security state of the gaming machine. Specifically, when it is determined that a winning order abnormality has occurred between the first start winning opening 13 and the second starting winning opening 14, an external device such as a hall computer is used for a predetermined period (for example, 30 seconds). Is output.

  Further, as described above, the prize ball information is a signal that is output every time a specific number (10 in this example) of prize ball payouts is detected. In this embodiment, a predetermined payout condition for paying out a predetermined number of award balls (in this embodiment, 10 balls) is satisfied (start winning ports 13, 14, 17 and big winnings). In other words, a predetermined payout condition is met on condition that a detection signal from the proximity switch (count switch 23, start port switch 13a, 14a, 17a) is input. The winning signal is output to the outside based on the determination, and the number of winning balls can be grasped on the hall side based on the winning signal. Therefore, the prize ball information may be configured not to be output externally.

  FIG. 30 is a flowchart showing the information output process of step S30. In the example shown in FIG. 30, a part of the process executed in the information output process for outputting the security signal to the outside is shown, and the description of the other processes is omitted. In the processing, in addition to the processing shown in FIG. 30, processing for externally outputting a symbol determination number 1 signal, a start port signal, a big hit 1 signal, a big hit 2 signal, a big hit 3 signal, a time reduction signal, and a winning signal is also executed.

  In the information output process, the CPU 56 loads the security signal information timer (step S1001), reflects the state of the security signal information timer in the flag register (step S1002), and determines whether the security signal information timer has timed out. (Step S1003). In this embodiment, it is determined that a winning order abnormality has occurred between the first start winning opening 13 and the second starting winning opening 14, and a predetermined time (30 seconds in this example) is set in the security signal information timer (winning). When the predetermined time has not elapsed, it is determined that the security signal information timer has not timed out, and when the predetermined time has elapsed (the value of the security signal information timer is 0). ), It is determined that the security signal information timer has timed out.

  If the security signal information timer has not timed out (N in step S1003), the security signal information timer is decremented by 1 (step S1004), and the calculation result is stored in the security signal information timer (step S1005). Then, the security signal output bit position of the information buffer (bit 7 of the output port 1 in the example shown in FIG. 6) is set (step S1006). When the security signal output bit position of the information buffer is set, in step S1007, the information buffer is set to the output value, and the output value is output to the output port 1 in step S1008. Is output (turns on). If the security signal information timer times out (Y in step S1003), the security signal is turned off as a result of the processing in step S1006 not being executed.

  The connector CN8 of the terminal board 160 is used until 30 seconds have elapsed after the winning order abnormality of the first starting winning port 13 and the second starting winning port 14 is detected by the processing of steps S1001 to S1008 described above. Security signal is output.

  In this embodiment, when a new winning order abnormality is detected during the output of the security signal, the value of the security signal information timer is overwritten as needed, so the output of the current security signal is continued as it is. The output of the security signal is continued until 30 seconds have elapsed since the last winning order abnormality was detected.

  If a new winning order abnormality is detected during the output of the security signal (when the winning order abnormality occurs a plurality of times in succession), the process waits until the output of the current security signal for 30 seconds is completed. The output of the next security signal may be started after a certain interval period.

  In this embodiment, the security signal is output based on the detection of the winning order abnormality. However, the security signal is externally output using the common connector CN8 of the terminal board 160 due to an output factor other than the winning order abnormality. You may make it output. For example, based on detecting a radio wave abnormality based on detection of an illegal radio wave, a magnetic abnormality based on detection of an illegal magnetism, or an abnormal winning at a big prize opening or a starting prize opening 13,14,17. A security signal may be output. Also, for example, a security signal may be output based on the initialization of the gaming machine, or a communication error between boards mounted on the gaming machine (for example, between the main board 31 and the payout control board 37). A security signal may be output based on the detection of a communication error. In this case, for example, the security signal may be output for a predetermined period (for example, 30 seconds), or when the output of the security signal is started, the gaming machine is reset to initialize the gaming machine. The security signal may be continuously output until.

  In this embodiment, for each timer interrupt, the output bit position of the corresponding signal is set in the information output process shown in FIG. Although a processing example of external output is shown, the output state of each signal does not change unless the value of the corresponding output bit changes from the previous setting. For example, if the value of the corresponding output bit is set to “1”, the signal continues to be output while it is set.

  Next, the operation of the effect control means will be described. FIG. 31 is a flowchart showing main processing executed by the effect control microcomputer 100 (specifically, the effect control CPU 101) as effect control means mounted on the effect control board 80. The effect control CPU 101 starts executing the main process when the power is turned on. In the main processing, first, initialization processing for clearing the RAM area, setting various initial values, and initializing a timer for determining the activation control activation interval (for example, 4 ms) is performed (step S701). . Thereafter, the effect control CPU 101 proceeds to a loop process for monitoring a timer interrupt flag (step S702). When a timer interrupt occurs, the effect control CPU 101 sets a timer interrupt flag in the timer interrupt process. If the timer interrupt flag is set in the main process, the effect control CPU 101 clears the flag (step S703) and executes the following effect control process.

  In the effect control process, the effect control CPU 101 first analyzes the received effect control command and performs a process of setting a flag according to the received effect control command (command analysis process: step S704).

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 performs effect control process processing (step S705). In the effect control process, the process corresponding to the current control state (effect control process flag) is selected from the processes corresponding to the control state, and display control of the effect display device 9 is executed.

  Next, the production control CPU 101 performs the fourth symbol process (step S706). In the 4th symbol process, the process corresponding to the current control state (4th symbol process flag) is selected from the processes corresponding to the control state, and the 4th symbol display areas 9c and 9d of the effect display device 9 are selected. The display control of the 4th symbol is executed.

  Next, a random number update process for updating a count value of a counter for generating a random number such as a jackpot symbol determining random number is executed (step S707). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S702.

  FIG. 32 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of a command reception buffer for storing the effect control command received from the game control microcomputer 560 of the main board 31. In this example, a command reception buffer of a ring buffer type capable of storing six 2-byte configuration effect control commands is used. Therefore, the command reception buffer is configured by a 12-byte area of reception command buffers 1 to 12. A command reception number counter indicating in which area the received command is stored is used. The command reception number counter takes a value from 0 to 11. The ring buffer format is not necessarily required.

  The effect control command transmitted from the game control microcomputer 560 is received by an interrupt process based on the effect control INT signal, and is stored in a buffer area formed in the RAM. In the command analysis process, it is analyzed which command (see FIG. 13 and FIG. 14) the effect control command stored in the buffer area is. Note that the interrupt process based on the effect control INT signal is executed in preference to the timer interrupt process executed every 4 ms.

  FIG. 33 is a flowchart illustrating a specific example of command analysis processing (step S704). The effect control command received from the main board 31 is stored in the reception command buffer, but in the command analysis process, the effect control CPU 101 confirms the content of the command stored in the command reception buffer.

  In the command analysis process, the effect control CPU 101 first checks whether or not a reception command is stored in the command reception buffer (step S611). Whether it is stored or not is determined by comparing the value of the command reception number counter with the read pointer. The case where both match is the case where the received command is not stored. When the reception command is stored in the command reception buffer, the effect control CPU 101 reads the reception command from the command reception buffer (step S612). When read, the value of the read pointer is incremented by +2 (step S613). The reason for +2 is that 2 bytes (1 command) are read at a time.

  If the received effect control command is a variation pattern command (step S614), the effect control CPU 101 stores the received variation pattern command in a variation pattern command storage area formed in the RAM (step S615). Then, a variation pattern command reception flag is set (step S616).

  If the received effect control command is a display result designation command (step S617), the effect control CPU 101 forms the received display result designation command (display result 1 designation command to display result 5 designation command) in the RAM. Is stored in the display result designation command storage area (step S618).

  If the received effect control command is a symbol confirmation designation command (step S619), the effect control CPU 101 sets a confirmed command reception flag (step S620).

  If the received effect control command is a jackpot start designation command (command A001 (H)) (step S621), the effect control CPU 101 sets a jackpot start designation command reception flag (step S622).

  If the received effect control command is a small hit / sudden probability sudden change big hit start designation command (command A002 (H)) (step S623), the production control CPU 101 sets a small hit / sudden probability sudden change big hit start designation command reception flag. (Step S624).

  If the received effect control command is a winning order abnormality notification designation command (command D000 (H)) (step S625), the effect control CPU 101 outputs a control signal (lamp control execution data) to the lamp driver board 35. Thus, lighting control of the frame LED 28 is performed with a predetermined abnormality notification pattern (step S626). Further, the production control CPU 101 outputs a predetermined abnormality notification sound from the speaker 27 by outputting a control signal (sound number data) to the sound output board 70 (step S627).

  In this embodiment, the case where the winning order abnormality notification is performed by turning on the frame LED 28 with a predetermined abnormality notification pattern and outputting a predetermined abnormality notification sound from the speaker 27 is shown. This aspect is not limited to that shown in this embodiment. For example, the winning order abnormality notification may be performed by performing only one of lighting of the frame LED 28 with a predetermined abnormality notification pattern and output of a predetermined abnormality notification sound from the speaker 27. Also, for example, the winning order abnormality notification may be performed by displaying a winning order abnormality notification screen including a character string such as “abnormal winning order” on the effect display device 9.

  If the received effect control command is another command, effect control CPU 101 sets a flag corresponding to the received effect control command (step S628). Then, control goes to a step S611.

  FIG. 34 is a flowchart showing the effect control process (step S705) in the main process shown in FIG. In the effect control process, the effect control CPU 101 performs one of steps S800 to S807 according to the value of the effect control process flag. In each process, the following process is executed. In the effect control process, the display state of the effect display device 9 is controlled and variable display of the effect symbol is realized. However, control related to variable display of the effect symbol synchronized with the change of the first special symbol is also the second. Control related to the variable display of the effect symbol synchronized with the change of the special symbol is also executed in one effect control process. It should be noted that the variable display of the effect symbol synchronized with the variation of the first special symbol and the variable display of the effect symbol synchronized with the variation of the second special symbol may be executed by separate effect control process processing. Good. Further, in this case, it may be determined which special symbol variation display is being executed depending on which representation control process processing is performing the variation display of the representation symbol.

  Fluctuation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800): It is confirmed whether or not a variation pattern command has been received from the game control microcomputer 560. Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not the variation pattern command reception flag set in the command analysis process is set. If the change pattern command has been received, the value of the effect control process flag is changed to a value corresponding to the effect symbol change start process (step S801).

  Production symbol variation start processing (step S801): Control is performed so that the variation of the production symbol is started. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the effect symbol changing process (step S802).

  Production symbol variation processing (step S802): Controls the switching timing of each variation state (variation speed) constituting the variation pattern and monitors the end of the variation time. When the variation time ends, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the effect symbol variation stop process (step S803).

  Effect symbol variation stop processing (step S803): Control is performed to stop the variation of the effect symbol and derive and display the display result (stop symbol). Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the jackpot display process (step S804) or the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800).

  Big hit display process (step S804): After the end of the variation time, control is performed to display a screen for notifying the effect display device 9 of the occurrence of the big hit. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the in-round processing (step S805).

  In-round processing (step S805): Display control during round is performed. If the round end condition is satisfied, if the final round has not ended, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the post-round processing (step S806). If the final round has ended, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the jackpot end process (step S807).

  Post-round processing (step S806): Display control between rounds is performed. When the round start condition is satisfied, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the in-round process (step S805).

  Big hit end effect processing (step S807): In the effect display device 9, display control is performed to notify the player that the big hit game state has ended. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800).

  As described above, according to this embodiment, the distribution device 200 for distributing game balls is provided in the game area 7. The sorting device 200 includes an inflow port 201 through which game balls that have entered the game area 7 can flow into the sorting device 200, and a plurality of passages through which game balls that have flowed in from the inflow port can pass (in this example, the left-side passage). 203, a right passage 204), and a distribution means (in this example, a distribution member 202) that distributes the game balls flowing in from the inflow port to any one of the plurality of passages. Further, the distribution means is based on the fact that the game ball has flowed in from the inflow port 201, and in the first state (this book) that easily distributes the game ball to the first passage (the left passage 203 in this example) among the plurality of passages. In the example, as shown in FIGS. 2 (a) and 2 (d), the distribution member 202 is tilted to the right) and the second state in which game balls are easily distributed to the second passage (in this example, the right passage 204) ( In this example, as shown in FIGS. 2B and 2C, the distribution member 202 is switched to the left side) according to a predetermined order (in this example, the distribution member 202 is alternately switched according to the weight of the game ball). In addition, the first start area (in this example, the first start winning opening 13) is provided in such a manner that the game balls distributed in the first passage easily pass through (in this example, as shown in FIG. 2). The first start winning opening 13 is provided below the left outlet 205), and the second starting area (in this example, the second starting winning opening 14) has game balls distributed to the second passage. (In this example, as shown in FIG. 2, the second start winning opening 14 is provided below the right outlet 206). When the order in which the game balls are detected by the first detection means (in this example, the first start port switch 13a) and the second detection means (in this example, the second start port switch 14a) is different from the predetermined order. (In this example, it is determined that there is an abnormality (in this example, the winning order is abnormal) when four or more game balls are continuously detected by one of the start port switches). Therefore, since the abnormality determination of the sorting apparatus 200 can be performed, it is possible to prevent the game from being performed normally due to the abnormality of the sorting apparatus 200.

  In this embodiment, specifically, when the number of game balls won four or more consecutively in any one of the first start winning opening 13 and the second starting winning opening 14, Although it is configured so as to make a determination, for example, if only such a configuration is made, for example, one game ball is put in the first start winning port 13 after three game balls are won in the second start winning port 14. Unauthorized acts that repeat the work of winning a prize will be possible. Therefore, for example, every time 10 start prizes are generated, the number of start prizes to the first start prize slot 13 and the number of prizes to the second start prize slot 14 among the ten start prizes are determined. In other words, it may be determined that the winning order is abnormal when the winning at one start winning opening is biased by a predetermined ratio (for example, 70%) or more. Specifically, when 10 start winnings are generated, if 7 or more are won in any one of the first starting winning port 13 and the second starting winning port 14, it is determined that the winning order is abnormal. You may make it do.

  In addition, the determination method for determining the winning order abnormality by detecting the deviation of the winning ratio to one of the starting winning ports as described above is a predetermined number (one book) at one starting winning port as shown in this embodiment. In the example, it may be executed in place of the process of determining that the winning order is abnormal based on the detection of the above 4) consecutive winning prizes, or by detecting a bias in the winning percentage at one start winning opening. You may comprise so that both the process determined as order abnormality and the process which detects a predetermined number or more consecutive winnings in one start winning opening, and determines as a prize order abnormality may be performed together.

  Moreover, according to this embodiment, the distribution means is configured to switch approximately alternately between the first state and the second state. Further, when the game ball passes through the second start area, control is made to an advantageous game state (in this example, 15R probability variation big hit with a large number of rounds) compared to the case where the game ball passes through the first start area. Is possible. Based on the fact that the game balls have passed through the second start area without passing through the first start area (in this example, four or more consecutive wins in the second start winning opening 14). And determine that it is abnormal. Therefore, it is possible to prevent an illegal act of intentionally passing the game ball into the advantageous second starting area.

  For example, in the gaming machine in which the winning to the second start winning opening 14 is advantageously configured as shown in this embodiment, an illegal act that causes a game ball to win continuously to the second starting winning opening 14 is performed. In this embodiment, since it is determined that the winning order is abnormal based on four or more consecutive winnings at the second start winning opening 14 and the winning order abnormality is notified, such illegal An act can be prevented from being performed.

  In this embodiment, the distribution member 200 of the distribution device 200 distributes the game balls to the first start winning opening 13 and the second starting winning opening 14 so as to be able to win alternately. If any failure occurs in the sorting apparatus 200, such as the member 200 sticking to either the left or right, a game ball continuously wins at the first start winning opening 13 or a game at the second start winning opening 14 There is a possibility that the ball may win continuously. In particular, when a game ball continuously wins at the second start winning opening 14, an advantageous state continues more than necessary, so a state unnecessarily disadvantageous for the game store occurs. There is a risk that. Therefore, in this embodiment, since the winning order abnormality is determined based on the fact that four or more consecutive winnings have been made at the first starting winning opening 13 or the second starting winning opening 14, the winning order abnormality notification is made. A failure of the device 200 can be found with recall, and an unnecessarily unfavorable situation for the amusement store can be prevented.

  Moreover, in this embodiment, although the case where the state of the sorting apparatus 200 switches alternately was shown, it should just switch according to a predetermined | prescribed order, and does not necessarily switch alternately. For example, the first start winning port 13 → the first starting winning port 13 → the second starting winning port 14 → the first starting winning port 13 → the first starting winning port 13 → the second starting winning port 14... The distribution device 200 may be switched as long as it is switched according to some predetermined order. Even in such a case, if the start winning according to the determined order cannot be detected, it is determined that the winning order abnormality has occurred, and the winning order abnormality notification is made according to the same manner as this embodiment. It should be executed. Even in such a case, if the start winning according to the determined order is not detected, it is not determined immediately that the winning order is abnormal, but the start winning according to the determined order is determined a predetermined number of times. It may be determined that the winning order is abnormal on the condition that it has not been detected continuously over the start winning prizes, and a winning order abnormality notification may be executed (that is, with some margin until the winning order is abnormal) May be good).

  Further, in this embodiment, the case where the determination of the winning order abnormality and the notification of the winning order abnormality is performed in one stage of processing is shown, but it may be configured to perform in plural stages of processing. For example, as a first-stage process, the lamp / LED lighting control is performed as a winning order abnormality notification based on the fact that four consecutive winnings are made in either one of the first starting winning port 13 and the second starting winning port 14. As the second stage of processing, the lamp / LED lighting control and the abnormality alarm sound output control are performed based on the fact that eight consecutive winnings are made at the same start winning opening, and the abnormality notification sound is output. As a process, the winning ball payout is stopped in addition to the lamp / LED lighting control and the abnormal alarm sound output control based on the fact that 16 consecutive winnings are made at the same starting winning opening. Good.

  Further, according to this embodiment, the variable winning device (in this example, changeable to a state (in this example, an open state) where the game ball can easily pass through the starting region (in this example, the second starting region 14). , A variable winning ball apparatus 15). Then, it is not determined as abnormal during the operation period of the variable winning device (in this example, the probability changing state (that is, the high base state), the variable winning ball device 15 being opened). For this reason, it is possible to prevent wasteful unnecessary abnormality determination. Specifically, when the probability changing state (that is, the high base state) or when the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is being opened, the game ball may win continuously at the second start winning opening 14. Because of this (see FIG. 3), the determination of abnormality in the winning order to the second start winning opening 14 is not performed, so that unnecessary determination of abnormal winning order is prevented.

  Further, according to this embodiment, the variable winning device is provided in any one of the first starting region and the second starting region in the starting region (in this example, the second starting winning port). 14). Then, regardless of whether or not the variable winning device is in operation, the game ball passes continuously through the starting area where the variable winning device is not provided (in this example, the first starting winning port 14) (this book In the example, it is determined that there is an abnormality based on the fact that four or more consecutive winnings are made in the first start winning opening 13. Therefore, it is possible to perform necessary abnormality determination while preventing waste that unnecessary abnormality determination is performed. Specifically, even during the probability changing state (that is, the high base state) or during the opening operation of the variable winning ball apparatus 15, the first winning winning opening 13 that is not provided with the variable winning ball apparatus 15 continues. Therefore, regardless of whether the variable winning ball device 15 is being opened or not, it is necessary to win the first start winning opening 13 regardless of whether or not the variable winning ball device 15 is being opened. The order abnormality is judged.

  In this embodiment, as the variable display pattern command (in this example, the variable pattern command), the first command indicating the variable information display mode of the identification information (for example, presence / absence of pseudo-continuity, presence / absence of slip effect, etc.) A command that indicates a variation time and a variation mode before) and a second command (for example, type of reach and re-execution) of a predetermined effect (for example, reach effect, re-lottery effect) executed in variable display of identification information. You may comprise so that the change time after becoming reach, such as the presence or absence of a lottery effect, and the command which shows the execution aspect of an effect) may be transmitted. With such a configuration, it is possible to reduce the amount of data that must be stored as a variation pattern command.

  Further, according to this embodiment, when the variable winning device is changed to the closed state, an abnormality occurs when the order in which the game balls are detected by the first detection means and the second detection means is different from the predetermined order. Is determined. For this reason, the abnormality determination is always performed when the game ball is in a closed state in which the game ball is not continuously awarded to the second start winning opening 14, so that the necessary abnormality determination can be performed.

  Further, according to this embodiment, when the high-frequency state (in this example, the probability variation state (that is, the high base state)) is not controlled (that is, the low base state), the first detection means and the second detection means When the order in which the game balls are detected by the detection means is different from the predetermined order, it is determined that there is an abnormality. For this reason, the abnormality determination is always performed when the game ball is in a low base state where the game ball does not win continuously at the second start winning opening 14, so that the necessary abnormality determination can be performed.

  Further, according to this embodiment, the order in which the game balls are detected by the first detection means and the second detection means regardless of the detection result of the third detection means (in this example, the third start port switch 17a). Is determined to be abnormal when the order differs from the predetermined order. For this reason, the abnormality determination is performed regardless of the third start winning port 17 that is not restricted in the winning order of the game balls, so that the necessary abnormality determination can be performed.

  In the above embodiment, the case where the variable winning ball device 15 is provided in the second starting winning port 14 provided below the distribution device 200 has been described. However, the variable winning ball device is provided in the third starting winning port. You may comprise so that it may provide. Hereinafter, a modified example in which a variable winning ball apparatus is provided at the third start winning opening will be described.

  FIG. 35 is a front view of the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to a modification as seen from the front. The modified example shown in FIG. 35 is different from the above-described embodiment in that the variable winning ball device 15 is not provided in the second start winning opening 14. In the modification shown in FIG. 35, the third start winning award 17 provided on the lower stage of the effect display device 9 shown in the above embodiment is replaced with a third on the right side of the effect display device 9. A start winning opening 19 is provided. Also, the game ball that has won the third start winning opening 19 is guided to the back of the game board 6 and detected by the third start opening switch 19a.

  Further, the third start winning opening 19 is provided with a variable winning ball device 15a that can be changed between an open state and a closed release state. The variable winning ball apparatus 15a is opened by the solenoid 16a. When the variable winning ball device 15a is in the open state, it becomes easier for the game ball to start and win the third starting winning port 19, which is advantageous to the player. In the modification shown in FIG. 35, even if the variable winning ball apparatus 15a is in the closed and released state, it is configured so that it is possible to win in the third start winning opening 19 even though it is difficult to win in comparison with the open state. However, the third winning winning opening 19 may be configured to be able to start winning only when the variable winning ball apparatus 15a is in the open state.

  Further, in the modification shown in FIG. 35, when the gaming state is the probability variation state (that is, the high base state), the frequency at which the variable winning ball device 15a is opened is increased, and the start winning prize is given to the third start winning opening 19. It becomes easy to do. Therefore, also in the modified example shown in FIG. 35, when the gaming state is controlled to the probabilistic state, the player launches a game ball aiming at the right side of the gaming area 7 as in the above embodiment. It is advantageous to perform the launch operation so-called (right-handed). During the right-handed operation, the game ball can be won only in the third start winning port 19 and the game ball cannot be won in the first start winning port 13 and the second start winning port 14. Also good.

  FIG. 36 is a flowchart showing the start port switch passing process in the modified example. As shown in FIG. 36, this modification does not include the processing of steps S1222 to S1224 shown in the above embodiment, and if the second start port switch 14a is on in step S1221, the CPU 56 The process proceeds to step S1225, and the value of the second winning number counter is incremented by 1 (step S1225), and the value of the first winning number counter is cleared (step S1226). That is, in this modified example, as shown in FIG. 36, although the variable winning ball device 15a is provided in the third starting winning port 19, the variable winning ball device is not provided in the second starting winning port 14. Even in the probability variation state (high base state), the game ball does not win continuously at the second start winning opening 14. Therefore, even in the case of the probability changing state (high base state) or the variable winning ball apparatus 15a being in the open state, the winning order abnormality notifying process shown in FIG. 28 is performed without clearing the second winning number counter. When four or more consecutive winnings of game balls to the second start winning opening 14 are detected continuously, it is determined that a winning order abnormality has occurred.

  As described above, according to the modification shown in FIGS. 35 and 36, the game ball easily passes through the third start area (in this example, the third start winning opening 19) (in this example, the open state). Specific variable winning device (in this example, variable winning ball device 15a) that can be changed. Regardless of whether or not the variable variable winning device is in operation (in this example, the probability changing state (that is, the high base state) or the variable winning ball device 15a is being opened), When the order in which the game balls are detected by the second detection means is different from the predetermined order, it is determined as abnormal. Therefore, it is possible to determine the abnormality of the sorting device even during the operation period of the specific variable winning device.

  In the example shown in FIGS. 35 and 36, the variable winning ball device 15a is provided only at the third starting winning port 19, but the variable winning ball device 15 is also provided at the second starting winning port 14. May be. Even in such a configuration, it may be configured to determine whether the winning order is abnormal regardless of whether or not the variable winning ball apparatus 15a is operating.

  In the above-described embodiment, when a big hit occurs, the probability change state (high probability state) is always controlled after the big hit game ends, and a predetermined number of times (70 in this example) after the big hit game ends. Based on the fact that the variable display is finished, the case where the probability change state (high probability state) is applied to the gaming machine has been shown. However, the gaming machine to which the configuration shown in this embodiment can be applied is as follows. It is not limited to gaming machines. For example, this embodiment shows a game machine provided with a normal big hit that is controlled only in a high base state (short-time state) in addition to a probability big hit that is controlled to a promiscuous state after the big hit game ends as a big hit type. You may apply the structure which performs detection and alert | report of winning order abnormality. In this case, for example, when a probable big hit is made, the probable state may be controlled until the next big hit occurs while controlling to the probable state after the big hit game ends. In addition, when the big hit is normal, the high base state (time reduction state) is controlled after the big hit game is finished, and the high base state is reached at the timing when the predetermined number of times (for example, 100 times) of the fluctuation display is finished after the big hit game is finished. (Time-short state) may be terminated. In the case where the configuration is such that a normal big hit is provided in this way, for example, in step S1222 of the start port switch passing process and step S96 of the fluctuation pattern setting process, a determination process for confirming whether or not the probability variation flag is set is performed. Instead, a determination process for confirming whether or not the time reduction flag indicating the time reduction state is set may be performed. Further, in such a game machine, when it is configured to suddenly provide a probable big hit or small win, it is in a high base state in order to make it difficult to recognize whether or not it is controlled to a probable change state (high probability state). In some cases, when sudden odd-decision jackpots are suddenly reached, a high probability state is controlled and a high base state is maintained after the big hit game based on sudden odd-variable jackpots. In some cases, it is desirable to control only to the high probability state after the big hit game based on the sudden probability change big hit and not to control to the high base state (maintain the low base state).

  In the above-described embodiment, the production control board 80, the audio output board 70, and the lamp driver board 35 are provided as the boards on which the circuit for controlling the production apparatus is mounted. You may mount on one board | substrate. Further, a first effect control board (display control board) on which a circuit for controlling the effect display device 9 and the like is mounted and a circuit for controlling other effect devices (lamps, LEDs, speakers 27, etc.) are mounted. You may make it provide two board | substrates with two production | presentation control boards.

  In the above-described embodiment, the game control microcomputer 560 directly transmits a command to the effect control microcomputer 100. However, the game control microcomputer 560 transmits another command (for example, FIG. 4). The sound output board 70 and the lamp driver board 35 shown in FIG. 5 or the sound / lamp board having the function of the circuit mounted on the sound output board 70 and the function of the circuit mounted on the lamp driver board 35). A control command may be transmitted and transmitted to the effect control microcomputer 100 on the effect control board 80 via another board. In that case, the command may simply pass through another board, or the sound output board 70, the lamp driver board 35, and the sound / lamp board are equipped with control means such as a microcomputer, and the control means receives the command. In response to this, control related to sound control and lamp control is executed, and the received command is changed as it is or, for example, to a simplified command to control the effect display device 9. You may make it transmit to. Even in that case, the effect control microcomputer 100 performs the display control in accordance with the effect control command directly received from the game control microcomputer 560 in the above-described embodiment. Display control can be performed in accordance with commands received from the board 35 or the sound / lamp board.

  In the above embodiment, the game machine uses a game medium as an example. However, the game machine according to the present invention is not limited to a game machine that pays out a predetermined number of game media, and a game ball The present invention can also be applied to an enclosed game machine that encloses game media such as the above and gives a score when a prize granting condition is satisfied.

  The present invention is applicable to gaming machines such as pachinko gaming machines.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Pachinko machine 8a 1st special symbol display device 8b 2nd special symbol display device 9 Production display device 13 1st starting winning port 13a 1st starting port switch 14 2nd starting winning port 14a 2nd starting port switch 15 Variable winning ball Device 17 Third start winning opening 17a Third start opening switch 20 Special variable winning ball device 200 Sorting device 201 Inflow port 202 Sorting member 203 Left side passage 204 Right side passage 205 Left outflow port 206 Right outflow port 31 Game control board (main substrate)
56 CPU
560 Game control microcomputer 80 Production control board 100 Production control microcomputer 101 Production control CPU
109 VDP

Claims (1)

It is possible to perform a predetermined game using a game medium, a game area into which the game medium can enter is provided, and a plurality of types of identification that can identify each based on the game medium passing through the start area A gaming machine that performs variable display of information,
A first start area and a second start area are provided as the start area,
A distribution device for distributing game media is provided in the game area,
The sorting device is
An inflow port through which game media entering the game area can flow into the distribution device;
A plurality of passages through which game media flowing in from the inflow port can pass;
Distribution means for distributing game media flowing in from the inflow port to any of the plurality of passages,
The allocating means is configured to easily distribute game media to the first state and the second passage in which the game media are easily distributed to the first passage of the plurality of passages based on the flow of game media from the inflow port. Switch to 2 states according to a predetermined order,
The first start area is provided in such a manner that the game media distributed in the first passage easily pass through,
The second start area is provided in such a manner that game media distributed in the second passage easily pass through,
First detecting means for detecting a game medium that has passed through the first starting area;
Second detection means for detecting a game medium that has passed through the second starting area;
An abnormality determination means for determining an abnormality when the order in which game media are detected by the first detection means and the second detection means is different from a predetermined order;
Variable display pattern command transmission means for transmitting a variable display pattern command indicating a variable display pattern of identification information when starting variable display of identification information;
The variable display pattern command transmission means transmits, as the variable display pattern command, a first command indicating a variable display mode of identification information and a second command indicating an execution mode of a predetermined effect executed in variable display of identification information. A gaming machine characterized by that.

Images