JP2015003079A - Pachinko game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a pachinko game machine capable of suppressing a trouble to arise in performances.SOLUTION: A storage section 301 stores normal performance data (basic data) and a plurality units of branching data for branching performance from the basic data. An interruption section 303 interrupts the reproduction of the basic data at a prescribed branching timing. When the reproduction of the basic data is interrupted by the interruption section 303, a changeover section 304 switches data to be reproduced to one of the plurality units of branching data. When the performance of the one of the branching data switched by the changeover section 304 is over, a resumption section 305 resumes the reproduction of the basic data. The basic data after resumption is the data for executing a ready-to-win performance following to executing a special performance which is different from the normal performance. The special performance is a performance in which an image display section and a lamp control section are synchronizing.

Description

  The present invention relates to a pachinko gaming machine that produces effects.

  Conventionally, when a game ball launched into the game area of the game board wins a specific start opening, a random number is acquired at the start winning timing under the control of the main control unit, and this random number matches a predetermined hit random number In this case, pachinko gaming machines are widely used in which a special symbol is stopped at a symbol indicating a win and the game is shifted to a winning game state.

  Such a pachinko gaming machine is provided with an effect control unit that displays the effect symbols on the image display unit in accordance with the change of the special symbols controlled by the main control unit. For example, the production control unit gradually increases the player's sense of expectation by developing a reach production when the jackpot is reached.

  The reach effect is, for example, when three effect symbols (first effect symbol to third effect symbol) are changed, the first effect symbol and the second effect symbol are arranged on the active line with the same symbol, and then the third effect symbol. This is an effect in which only the effect design is changed and the effect time is made longer than usual to increase the expectation of the jackpot. When the third effect symbol stops at the same effect symbol as the first effect symbol and the second effect symbol, it is a win, and when it does not stop at the same effect symbol, it is lost. In addition, the production control unit uses a production button (chance button) provided in the pachinko gaming machine to perform a button production that changes the image displayed on the image display unit when an operation from the player is accepted. I also do it.

  Furthermore, in recent gaming machines, a technique has been proposed in which a branch point is provided in the image data for presentation and one image data selected at the branch point is displayed (for example, see Patent Document 1 below). .)

JP 2009-55989 A

  An object of this invention is to suppress that the deficiency in production produces.

  In order to solve the above-described problems and achieve the object, the pachinko gaming machine according to the present invention is configured to branch the production from the first basic data which is data for normal production and the production based on the first basic data. Storage means for storing a plurality of branch data that is data and second basic data for performing a reach effect in which the normal effect is developed after the effect by the branch data is stored in the storage device First reproduction control means for reproducing the first basic data, interruption means for interrupting reproduction of the first basic data when a predetermined branch timing is reached, and reproduction of the first basic data by the interruption means. Switching means for switching data to be reproduced to one branch data among the plurality of branch data stored in the storage means when interrupted; and the switching means Therefore, when the effect by the switched one branch data is finished, the second reproduction control means for reproducing the second basic data stored in the storage means and the image provided on the game board are displayed. An image display unit, and an effect unit that produces an effect together with the image displayed on the image display unit, wherein the second basic data produces a special effect different from the normal effect, and the reach is performed after the special effect. It is data for performing an effect, and the special effect is an effect in which the image display unit and the effect unit are synchronized.

It is a front view which shows an example of a pachinko gaming machine. It is a block diagram which shows the internal structure of the control part of a pachinko game machine. It is a block diagram which shows the functional structure of an effect control part. It is a flowchart which shows the main timer interruption process which a main control part performs. It is a flowchart which shows the start port SW process which a main control part performs. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol process which a main control part performs. It is a flowchart which shows the timer interruption process which a production | presentation supervision part performs. It is a flowchart which shows the command reception process which an effect supervision part performs. It is a flowchart which shows the production | presentation selection process which an production supervision part performs. It is a flowchart which shows the effect button process which an effect supervision part performs. It is a flowchart which shows the process during change production which an production supervision part performs. It is a flowchart which shows the image control process which an image and audio | voice control part performs. It is a flowchart which shows the image control process which an image and audio | voice control part performs. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the production | presentation screen by the branch image data 1 when there exists operation of a production | presentation button. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the production | presentation screen by the branch image data 2 when there is no operation of a production | presentation button. It is a flowchart which shows the lamp control process which a lamp control part performs. It is a flowchart which shows the lamp control process which a lamp control part performs. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the lamp data when there exists operation of a production button. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the lamp data when there is no operation of a production button.

  Exemplary embodiments of a pachinko gaming machine according to the present invention will be explained below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Here, in the prior art, in the development stage, the content of the presentation is frequently changed, and when the scale is changed, it is necessary to change each of the plurality of image data to be branched, and only one image data is changed. If the correction is made and the other image data is forgotten to be corrected, there is a problem that not only the effect such as deviation occurs in the effect but also a burden on the designer. In the present embodiment, it is possible to prevent the production from being deficient and reduce the effort of the designer.

(Embodiment)
(Basic configuration of pachinko machine)
First, the basic configuration of the pachinko gaming machine according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention will be described. FIG. 1 is a front view showing an example of a pachinko gaming machine. As shown in FIG. 1, the pachinko gaming machine 100 includes a game board 101. A launcher is disposed at a lower position of the game board 101. The game ball launched by driving the launching unit rises between the rails 102 a and 102 b and reaches the upper position of the game board 101, and then falls within the game area 103.

  The game area 103 is provided with a plurality of nails (not shown), and the game balls fall in an unspecified direction by the nails. In the game area 103, a windmill and various winning openings (such as a start opening and a big winning opening) that change the falling direction of the gaming balls are arranged at positions in the middle of the falling of the gaming balls.

  An image display unit 104 is disposed in the center portion of the game board 101. A liquid crystal display or the like is used as the image display unit 104. A first start port 105 and a second start port 106 are disposed below the image display unit 104. The first start port 105 and the second start port 106 are winning ports for starting and winning. In the vicinity of the second start port 106, an electric tulip 107 as an electric accessory is provided. The electric tulip 107 has a closed state (a closed state) that makes it difficult to win the game ball to the second starting port 106 and an open state (opened state) that makes it easier to win than the closed state.

  The electric tulip 107 is opened based on the lottery result of the normal symbol lottery performed when the game ball passes through the gate 108 arranged on the left side of the image display unit 104. A big prize opening 109 is provided below the second start opening 106. The big winning opening 109 is a winning opening that is opened when a big hit gaming state is reached and for paying out a predetermined number (for example, 15) of winning balls by winning a game ball. In addition, each starting port 105,106, electric tulip 107, gate 108, and big winning port 109 may be arrange | positioned in the arbitrary positions in the game area 103 not only in the position shown in figure.

  A normal winning opening 110 is provided on the side of the image display unit 104 or below. The normal winning opening 110 is a winning opening for paying out a predetermined number (for example, 10) of winning balls by winning a game ball. At the bottom of the game area 103, there is provided a collection port 111 for collecting game balls that have not won any winning ports.

  In the lower right part of the game board 101, a special symbol display unit 112 for displaying special symbols is arranged. The special symbol display unit 112 displays a special symbol 1 display unit for displaying a first special symbol (hereinafter referred to as “special symbol 1”) and a special symbol for displaying a second special symbol (hereinafter referred to as “special symbol 2”). 2 display units. FIG. 1 shows the determination result of the hit determination performed for the game ball won in the first starting port 105. FIG. 2 shows the determination result of the hit determination performed for the game ball won in the second starting port 106.

  In addition, a normal symbol display portion 113 for displaying normal symbols is arranged in the lower right portion of the game board 101. The normal symbol indicates the lottery result of the normal symbol lottery. The normal symbol lottery is a lottery for determining whether or not the electric tulip 107 is in an open state (long open or short open) as described above. For example, a 7-segment display is used as the special symbol display unit 112 and the normal symbol display unit 113.

  On the left side of the special symbol display unit 112 and the normal symbol display unit 113, a hold display unit 114 that displays the number of reserved storage information for the special symbol or the normal symbol (hereinafter referred to as “hold number”) is arranged. The reserved storage information is obtained by holding a game ball won during a change in a special symbol or a normal symbol as a reserved state. As the hold display unit 114, for example, an LED (Light Emitting Diode) is used. A plurality of LEDs serving as the hold display unit 114 are arranged, and the number of holds is indicated by turning on / off. Note that the notification of the number of holds is also made by display on the image display unit 104.

  A frame member 115 is provided on the outer peripheral portion of the game area 103 of the game board 101. On the two sides which are the upper side and the lower side of the game area 103 in the frame member 115, an effect light unit 116 is provided. The effect light units 116 each have a plurality of lamps.

  In addition, a plurality of frame lamps 160 are provided on the right and left sides of the game area 103 in the frame member 115. The frame lamp 160 is turned on in response to the fluctuating effect by the image display unit 104 and excites the effect.

  An operation handle 117 is disposed at a lower position of the frame member 115. The operation handle 117 includes a firing instruction member 118 that drives the above-described launching unit to launch a game ball. The firing instruction member 118 is provided on the outer peripheral portion of the operation handle 117 so as to be rotated clockwise as viewed from the player. The launching unit launches a game ball when the firing instruction member 118 is directly operated by a player.

  In the frame member 115, an effect button 119 for receiving an operation by the player is provided on the lower side of the game area 103. In the frame member 115, a cross key 120 is provided next to the effect button 119. The frame member 115 incorporates a speaker that outputs sound.

  A gimmick 130 is disposed in front of the image display unit 104. FIG. 1 shows a state where the gimmick 130 has advanced to the front surface of the image display unit 104 during a specific performance. A gimmick lamp 131 is provided in the gimmick 130, and the gimmick lamp 131 emits light when the gimmick 130 has advanced to the front surface of the image display unit 104.

  When the gimmick 130 does not produce an effect, the gimmick 130 retreats to the accommodation space 132 provided on the side portion of the image display unit 104 so that it cannot be visually recognized by the player. The accommodation space 132 is provided with a decorative lamp 133 that lights up or blinks during a predetermined performance.

(Internal configuration of control unit of pachinko machine)
Next, the internal configuration of the control unit of the pachinko gaming machine 100 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of the control unit of the pachinko gaming machine 100. As shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 2, the control unit 200 of the pachinko gaming machine 100 includes a main control unit 201 that controls the progress of the game, an effect control unit 202 that controls the contents of the effect, and a prize ball control that controls the payout of prize balls. Part 203. The configuration of each control unit will be described in detail below.

(1. Main control unit)
The main control unit 201 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 211, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 212, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 213, an input / output interface (I / O) (not shown), and the like. The

  The main control unit 201 functions to control the progress of the game of the pachinko gaming machine 100 by executing various programs stored in the ROM 212 while the CPU 211 uses the RAM 213 as a work area. Specifically, the main control unit 201 controls the progress of the game by setting the game state in addition to the winning lottery and the normal symbol lottery. The main control unit 201 is realized by a main control board.

  The CPU 211 executes basic processing as the game content progresses based on various programs stored in the ROM 212 in advance. The ROM 212 stores a hold storage program, a winning determination program, a winning symbol determination program, a variation pattern selection program, a special diagram variation program, a pre-determination program, a big prize opening control program, a game state setting program, and the like.

  The reserved storage program stores the game ball detected by the first start opening SW221 during the special symbol change as the special 1 hold storage information, and the game ball detected by the second start opening SW222 during the special symbol change. Is stored as special 2 reserved storage information. The hit determination program is a program for performing a hit determination on special 1 reserved storage information and special 2 reserved storage information.

  The winning symbol determination program is a program for determining a winning symbol corresponding to the winning content. The jackpot symbol includes, for example, a long hit symbol with a large number of rounds and a large expected number of balls to be played, and a short hit symbol with a smaller number of rounds and a smaller number of winning balls than the long hit. The winning symbol determination for special 2 reserved storage information is easier to win the winning symbol (long winning) that is advantageous to the player than the winning symbol determination for special 1 reserved storage information.

  The variation pattern selection program is a program for selecting a variation pattern when the determination result of the hit determination or the hit symbol determination is changed as a special symbol. The special figure variation program is a program that varies a special symbol using a selected variation pattern. The determination result of the hit determination and the winning symbol determination for the special 1 reserved storage information is variably stopped as the special diagram 1 of the special figure 1 display unit 112a, while the determination result of the hit determination and the winning symbol determination for the special 2 reserved storage information is Then, the fluctuation is stopped as the special figure 2 of the special figure 2 display section 112b. The special symbol variation with respect to the special 2 reserved storage information is prioritized over the special 1 reserved storage information.

  The prior determination program is a program that makes a hit determination on stored stored information. The big prize opening control program sets a predetermined opening time (for example, 30 seconds) according to short win or long hit as one round at the time of win, 15 rounds at long win, 5 rounds at short win, and intermittent winning prize 109 It is a program to open up automatically.

  The gaming state setting program sets the gaming state after the winning end to the low probability gaming state or the high probability gaming state according to the winning symbol, and adds the gaming state with time shortening or the electric chew support to which the electric chew support is added. This is a program for setting a short-lived gaming state when not. The electric chew support is a function of shortening the normal symbol variation time and lengthening the opening time of the electric tulip 107. Further, the low probability gaming state is a gaming state in which it is difficult to win a jackpot. In the high probability gaming state, it is easier to win a big hit about 10 times than in the low probability gaming state.

  The main control unit 201 includes various switches (SW) for detecting a game ball, a solenoid for opening and closing an electric accessory such as a special winning opening 109, the above-described special figure 1 display part 112a, and the special figure 2 display part 112b. The normal symbol display unit 113, the hold display unit 114, and the like are connected.

  Specifically, the various SWs described above include a first start port SW221 that detects a game ball won in the first start port 105, and a second start port SW222 that detects a game ball won in the second start port 106. , A gate SW 223 that detects a game ball that has passed through the gate 108, a big winning opening SW 224 that detects a gaming ball that has won a prize winning opening 109, and a normal winning opening SW 225 that detects a gaming ball that has won a winning prize 110 Is connected to the main control unit 201.

  The detection results detected by the respective SWs (221 to 225) are input to the main control unit 201. A proximity switch or the like is used for these SWs. It should be noted that a plurality of the normal winning opening SW225 may be provided for each arrangement position of the normal winning opening 110.

  Further, as the solenoid, an electric tulip solenoid 231 that opens and closes the electric tulip 107 and a big prize opening solenoid 232 that opens and closes the big prize opening 109 are connected to the main control unit 201. The main control unit 201 controls driving of the solenoids (231 and 232).

  Further, the main control unit 201 is also connected to the effect control unit 202 and the prize ball control unit 203, and outputs various commands to the respective control units. For example, the main control unit 201 outputs a prize ball command to the prize ball control unit 203.

(2. Production control unit)
The effect control unit 202 includes an effect control unit 202a, an image / sound control unit 202b, and a lamp control unit 202c, and has a function of controlling the effect contents of the pachinko gaming machine 100. The effect control unit 202a has a function of controlling the entire effect control unit 202 based on various commands received from the main control unit 201. The image / sound control unit 202b has a function of controlling the image and sound based on the instruction content from the production control unit 202a. The lamp controller 202c has a function of controlling lighting of lamps provided on the game board 101, the frame member 115, and the like.

(2-1. Director of Production)
First, the configuration of the production control unit 202a will be described. The production control unit 202a includes a CPU 241, a ROM 242, a RAM 243, a real-time clock (hereinafter referred to as "RTC") 244, an input / output interface (I / O) (not shown), and the like.

  CPU241 performs the process which determines the content of production based on the various programs previously memorize | stored in ROM242. The ROM 242 stores various programs necessary for the CPU 241 to execute the above processing. The RAM 243 functions as a work area for the CPU 241. The data set in the RAM 243 when the CPU 241 executes various programs is output to the image / sound controller 202b and the lamp controller 202c at a predetermined timing.

  The production control unit 202a functions so that the CPU 241 executes the various programs such as the variable production program and the production switching program stored in the ROM 242 while using the RAM 243 as a work area, thereby overseeing the production control unit 202 as a whole. To do.

  The variation effect program is a program that performs a variation effect using the effect symbol in correspondence with the variation of the special symbol. The effect switching program is a program that transmits an effect switching command for switching the effect during the changing effect to the image / sound control unit 202b and the lamp control unit 202c.

  The RTC 244 counts and outputs real time. The RTC 244 continues timing operation by a backup power source (not shown) even when the power of the pachinko gaming machine 100 is cut off. In addition, an effect button 119 is connected to the effect control unit 202a, and data indicating that the effect button 119 has been operated by the player is input. In addition, a cross key 120 is connected to the production control unit 202a, and data corresponding to the key selected by the player is input.

(2-2. Image / Audio Control Unit)
Next, the configuration of the image / sound controller 202b will be described. The image / sound control unit 202b includes a CPU 251, a ROM 252, a RAM 253, an input / output interface (I / O) (not shown), and the like.

  The CPU 251 executes image and sound generation and output processing. The ROM 252 stores a program for image and sound generation and output processing, various image data such as background images, effect design images, and character images necessary for the processing, various sound data, and the like. The RAM 253 functions as a work area for the CPU 251 and temporarily stores image data to be displayed on the image display unit 104 and audio data to be output from the speaker 254.

  That is, the image / sound control unit 202b executes various programs such as an image interruption program, an image switching program, and an image resumption program stored in the ROM 252 while the CPU 251 uses the RAM 253 as a work area. It functions to control the image and sound based on the instruction from 202a. The ROM 252 stores basic image data, which is data for normal effects, and branch image data, which is data for branching effects from effects based on basic image data.

  The image interruption program is a program for interrupting reproduction of basic image data when a predetermined branch timing is reached. The image switching program is a program for switching image data to be reproduced to one branch image data among a plurality of branch image data when reproduction of basic image data is interrupted. The image resumption program is a program for resuming the reproduction of the basic image data when the effect by the branch image data is finished.

  Specifically, the CPU 251 executes various programs based on the instruction content instructed from the effect supervising unit 202a, thereby displaying the background image, the effect symbol variation / stop display, the notice image display process, and the character image. Various image processing such as display of display, display of stored memory information, display of button operation prompt images, and the like are executed. At this time, the CPU 251 reads out image data necessary for processing from the ROM 252 and writes it in the RAM 253.

  Image data such as background images and effect design images written in the RAM 253 is output to the image display unit 104 in accordance with the priority order. On the display screen of the image display unit 104, for example, the effect design image is displayed so as to be seen in front of the background image. When the background image and the effect design image overlap at the same position, the effect design image is given priority by referring to the Z value of the Z buffer of each image data by a known hidden surface removal method such as the Z buffer method. To be stored in the RAM 253.

  The audio data written in the RAM 253 is output to the speaker 254 connected to the image / audio control unit 202b, and audio based on the audio data is output from the speaker 254.

(2-3. Lamp control unit)
Next, the configuration of the lamp control unit 202c will be described. The lamp control unit 202c includes a CPU 261, a ROM 262, a RAM 263, an input / output interface (I / O) (not shown), and the like. The CPU 261 executes processing for turning on the lamp and the like. The ROM 262 stores basic lighting data that is data for normal effects, and branch lighting data that is data for branching effects from effects based on the basic lighting data.

  The ROM 262 stores a layer setting program, a lighting interruption program, a lighting switching program, a lighting resumption program, and the like necessary for executing the above-described processing. The RAM 263 functions as a work area for the CPU 261. In the RAM 263, lighting pattern data of various lamps, color data of various lamps, and the like are written.

  The layer setting program is a program that sets layers corresponding to priorities when controlling various lamps, gimmick motors 266, and the like in accordance with the contents of effects. The lighting interruption program is a program for interrupting reproduction of basic lighting data (lower layer data) when a predetermined branch timing is reached. The lighting switching program is a program for switching lighting data to be reproduced to one branch lighting data among a plurality of branch lighting data (upper layer data) when reproduction of basic lighting data is interrupted. The lighting restart program is a program for restarting the reproduction of the basic lighting data when the effect by the branch lighting data is finished.

  The lamp control unit 202c is connected to the effect light unit 116, the frame lamp 160, the panel lamp 264, the effect actor 265, the gimmick lamp 131, and the gimmick motor 266, and data for lighting control and data for operation control. Is output. Thereby, the lamp control unit 202c functions to control the lighting of the lamps provided on the game board 101, the frame member 115, and the like, and the operations of the effect actor 265 and the gimmick 130.

  The production control unit 202 is composed of different boards using the production control unit 202a, the image / sound control unit 202b, and the lamp control unit 202c, but these are incorporated on the same printed board. It may be configured. However, even when they are incorporated on the same printed circuit board, their functions are assumed to be independent.

(3. Prize ball control unit)
Next, the configuration of the winning ball control unit 203 will be described. The prize ball control unit 203 includes a CPU 281, a ROM 282, a RAM 283, an input / output interface (I / O) (not shown), and the like. The CPU 281 executes a prize ball control process for controlling a prize ball to be paid out. The ROM 282 stores a program necessary for the processing. The RAM 283 functions as a work area for the CPU 281.

  The prize ball control unit 203 is connected to a payout unit (payout drive motor) 291, a launch unit 292, a fixed position detection SW 293, a payout ball detection SW 294, a ball presence detection SW 295, and a full tank detection SW 296. .

  The prize ball control unit 203 controls the payout unit 291 to pay out the number of prize balls at the time of winning. The payout unit 291 includes a motor for paying out a predetermined number from the game ball storage unit. Specifically, the winning ball control unit 203 receives the winning game balls that have won the winning units 291 (the first starting port 105, the second starting port 106, the big winning port 109, the normal winning port 110) with respect to the payout unit 291. Control to pay out the corresponding number of prize balls.

  In addition, the prize ball control unit 203 detects the operation of launching the game ball with respect to the launch unit 292 and controls the launch of the game ball. The launcher 292 launches a game ball for a game, and includes a sensor that detects a game operation by the player, a solenoid that launches the game ball, and the like. When the prize ball control unit 203 detects a game operation by the sensor of the launch unit 292, the prize ball control unit 203 intermittently fires a game ball by driving a solenoid or the like in response to the detected game operation, thereby playing the game area 103 of the game board 101. A game ball is sent out.

  The prize ball control unit 203 is connected to various detection units for detecting the state of the game ball to be paid out, and detects the payout state for the prize ball. These detection units include a fixed position detection SW293, a payout ball detection SW294, a ball presence detection SW295, a full tank detection SW296, and the like. For example, the prize ball control unit 203 realizes its function by a prize ball control board.

  Further, a board external information terminal board 297 is connected to the main control unit 201, and various information executed by the main control unit 201 can be output to the outside. The prize ball control unit 203 is also connected to the frame external information terminal board 298, and can output various information executed by the prize ball control unit 203 to the outside.

  The main control unit 201, the effect control unit 202, and the prize ball control unit 203 having the above-described configuration are provided on different printed boards (main control board, effect control board, and prize ball control board). For example, the prize ball control unit 203 can be provided on the same printed circuit board as the main control unit 201.

(Functional configuration of pachinko machine)
Next, the functional configuration of the pachinko gaming machine 100 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the effect control unit 202. The effect control unit 202 is specifically realized by the image / sound control unit 202b or the lamp control unit 202c. That is, the control target in the present embodiment is controlled by the image / sound control unit 202b or the lamp control unit 202c. Specifically, in addition to the image and sound, the gimmick 130 and various lamps (gimmick lamp 131). Decorative lamp 133, frame lamp 160, panel lamp 264). The effect control unit 202 includes a storage unit 301, a reproduction unit 302, an interruption unit 303, a switching unit 304, a restart unit 305, and an input unit 306.

  The storage unit 301 stores basic data that is data for normal effects, or a plurality of branch data that is data for branching effects from effects based on basic data. The effect data is data for controlling each control object such as image data, lamp lighting data, and audio data used during a fluctuating effect or a jackpot effect. The basic data is data that is not reproduced at the same time. The branch data is, for example, data switched from the reference data in accordance with the operation of the effect button 119 by the player, the operation of the cross key 120, or the lottery, and a plurality of branch data is stored for each branch effect.

  The interruption unit 303 interrupts the reproduction of the basic data by the reproduction unit 302 when a predetermined branch timing is reached. Reproduction means that the data is reproduced by using image data, lighting data, etc., and output from the image display unit 104 or each lamp, and also means that only reproduction is performed internally without output. .

  The predetermined branch timing is a timing for reproducing the branch data. For example, in the case of an effect using the effect button 119, an arbitrary timing for accepting an operation input from the player, or an operation input to the effect button 119 is valid. This is the timing when the period has elapsed. Specifically, the timing of receiving an operation input from the player is the timing at which input information is input by the input unit 306. The input unit 306 inputs input information indicating that there has been an operation input from the player. That is, input information associated with the operation of the effect button 119 by the player and the operation of the cross key 120 is input.

  Here, for example, in the case of a button effect, the timing at which the reproduction of the basic data is interrupted is the timing at which the effect button 119 is operated or the time when the effective period has elapsed. There is a difference in data playback time. For this reason, the basic data just before the interruption is an effect that does not give a sense of incongruity even if the timing of interruption is different, for example, an effect that causes little change such as an effect that prompts an operation to the effect button 119.

  The switching unit 304 switches data to be reproduced to one branch data among the plurality of branch data when the reproduction of the basic data is interrupted by the interruption unit 303. Here, for example, in the case of a button effect, the timing for switching to branch data is the timing at which the effect button 119 is operated or the time when the effective period has elapsed, and therefore the reproduction time of the branch data varies depending on the respective timing. . For this reason, the data just before the end of the branch data is an effect that does not feel uncomfortable even if the timing is different, just like the data just before the interruption of the basic data, for example, an effect with little change.

  The resuming unit 305 resumes the reproduction of the basic data when the effect by the one branch data switched by the switching unit 304 is completed. The resuming unit 305 resumes the reproduction of the basic data for performing a special effect different from the effect using the basic data before the reproduction is interrupted by the interrupting unit 303, for example.

  Special effects include the display of cut-in images, character images, and dark images (blackout images) that are specific display modes, as well as special lamps that emit specific lamps and specific sound effects. This is a momentary effect that has an impact on the player immediately after switching from the branch data, such as voice output. More specifically, the special effect includes a screen displayed on the image display unit 104, various lamps (gimmick lamp 131, decoration lamp 133, frame lamp 160, panel lamp 264, etc.) and sound as the effect unit of the present invention. It is an effect that requires high-precision synchronization.

  In this embodiment, since the basic data for performing the special performance is resumed, it is possible to minimize the effort by the designer for the special performance that requires high-precision synchronization. ing.

  In the present embodiment, the image / sound control unit 202b and the lamp control unit 202c are configured to set a layer that determines the priority order of data to be output. There are, for example, eight layers from a lower “0” to an upper “7”. In general, when there is a layer set as a higher layer, a layer set as a lower layer is reproduced internally but is not output.

  In this embodiment, moving image data, audio data, and the like stored in the ROM 252 area of the image / sound control unit 202b are normally compressed and stored in advance according to restrictions on the storage area amount of the ROM 252. In the case of the chance button effect of the form, the presence / absence of the player's operation is quickly determined, and when it is necessary to instantly switch to the specific effect together with the operation of the effect button 119, the operation of the effect button 119 is detected. If decompression processing of stored data is simultaneously performed and further processing such as moving image reproduction control is performed in parallel, the load on the CPU 251 may increase and processing may be delayed.

  For this reason, the image / sound controller 202b performs the output content switching control in accordance with the priority order of the moving image data and audio data to be displayed after simultaneously developing a plurality of moving image data in advance. In this way, by giving priority to the layer data set at a higher level from among the plurality of layer data that are simultaneously expanded in advance, the main control unit 201 side can execute the command every time the effect is switched. Or the production control unit 202 side, in particular, the image / sound control unit 202b or the lamp control unit 202c side, while controlling the control burden, Various lighting formats for various lamps can be controlled, and various productions are possible.

  In the following description, a case where the lamp control unit 202c controls various lamps by setting layers will be described, but it is naturally possible for the image / sound control unit 202b to set layers.

  In the present embodiment, the ramp control unit 202c stops internal reproduction of the basic data set in the lower layer when the branch data for performing the branch effect is set in the upper layer. I have to. That is, the internal reproduction of the basic data set in the lower layer is interrupted when the predetermined branch timing is reached by the function of the interruption unit 303.

  The function of the switching unit 304 switches the data to be reproduced and output to the branch data set in the upper layer when the internal reproduction of the basic data set in the lower layer by the interruption unit 303 is interrupted. . Furthermore, when the effect by the one branch data switched by the switching unit 304 is ended by the function of the resuming unit 305, the reproduction and output of the basic data are resumed. When the resuming unit 305 resumes the reproduction and output of the basic data, the layer is reset. At the time of resetting the layer, no data is set in a layer higher than the basic data. As a condition.

  Here, a supplementary description will be given of conventional control when using layers. When setting a layer, conventionally, even when branch data (upper data) set in an upper layer is played back and output, basic data (lower data) set in a lower layer is internally played back. When the upper data ends, the lower data is output. If there is a change in the time scale of the upper data, the lower data is reproduced internally while the upper data is being output. May not match.

  In particular, in the case of special effects, the inconsistency in effects that accompanies the change in the time scale of the upper data becomes significant. Thus, conventionally, with the change in the time scale of the upper data, the lower data requires a change in the data end timing before re-output and the start timing at the time of re-output, and after the re-output When outputting a plurality of data sequentially, the start timing of each data had to be shifted. In the present embodiment, even if the time scale of the upper data is changed, the internal reproduction of the lower data is interrupted and restarted, so the timing for restarting the lower data can be changed. ing.

(Processing procedure of the main control unit)
Next, the contents of the processing procedure of the main control unit 201 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 4A is a flowchart illustrating a main timer interrupt process performed by the main control unit 201. The main timer interrupt process is a process that interrupts the main control process executed by the main control unit 201 every predetermined period (for example, 4 ms) during the power supply period.

  4A, the CPU 211 of the main control unit 201 executes a random number update process (step S401). The random number update process is a process of updating each random number by incrementing the jackpot random number, the jackpot symbol random number, and the like, for example, by one.

  Thereafter, a switch process performed when a game ball is detected by each switch is executed (step S402). The switch process includes a gate SW process that counts a passing ball to the gate SW 223 and a starter SW process that will be described later with reference to FIG.

  Thereafter, symbol processing, such as normal symbol processing for performing normal symbol lottery and variation, and special symbol processing to be described later with reference to FIG. 5, is performed (step S403). Then, an electric accessory process such as an electric chew process for operating the electric tulip 107 and a special winning opening process for operating the special winning opening 109 is executed (step S404). Thereafter, a prize ball process for performing a prize ball for the winning game ball is executed (step S405), and an output process for outputting a command set in each process is executed (step S406).

(Start-up SW processing)
Next, the start port SW process performed by the main control unit 201 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 4B is a flowchart of the start port SW process performed by the main control unit 201. The start port SW process is a process content included in the switch process shown in step S402 of FIG.

  4-2, the CPU 211 of the main control unit 201 determines whether or not the first start port SW221 of the first start port 105 is ON (step S421). When the first start port SW221 is OFF (step S421: No), the process proceeds to step S427. When the first start port SW221 is ON (step S421: Yes), it is determined whether or not the count value U1 of the first start port detection counter that has counted the number of detections of the first start port SW221 is smaller than “4”. (Step S422).

  When the count value U1 is “4” (step S422: No), the process proceeds to step S427. When the count value U1 is smaller than “4” (step S422: Yes), “1” is added to the count value U1 (step S423). Then, the random number is acquired, and the acquired random number is stored in the RAM 213 (step S424). The random number is a hit random number, a design random number, a reach random number, or the like. The hit random number is a random number for determining any one of big hit, small hit, and loss. For example, one hit random number is randomly obtained from 300 random numbers from “0” to “299”. .

  The design random number is a random number for determining the hit type (per high probability length, per low probability length, per high probability short, per low probability short, etc.). For example, 250 random numbers from “0” to “249” One design random number is randomly obtained from the random number. The reach random number is a random number for determining whether or not a reach effect is performed. For example, one reach random number is randomly acquired from 250 random numbers “0” to “249”.

  Each acquired random number is stored in the RAM 213. Note that the RAM 213 has a storage area for storing reserved storage information by winning a prize to the first start port 105. In this storage area, information indicating that the winning is made to the first starting port 105, winning random numbers, symbol random numbers, reach random number information, and the like are stored.

  Thereafter, a preliminary determination process is performed (step S425). In the pre-determination process, the winning random number acquired in step S424 is used to determine whether or not to win, to perform symbol determination using a symbol random number, and to perform reach determination using a reach random number. Thereafter, a special 1 reserved memory information increase command is set to indicate that the reserved memory information has increased due to winning at the first starting port 105 (step S426).

  Then, it is determined whether or not the second start port SW222 of the second start port 106 is ON (step S427). If the second start port SW222 is OFF (step S427: No), the process is terminated as it is. If the second start port SW222 is ON (step S427: Yes), it is determined whether or not the count value U2 of the second start port detection counter that has counted the number of detections of the second start port SW222 is smaller than “4”. (Step S428).

  When the count value U2 is “4” (step S428: No), the processing is ended as it is. When the count value U2 is smaller than “4” (step S428: Yes), “1” is added to the count value U2 (step S429). Then, each random number is acquired, and the acquired random number is stored in the RAM 213 (step S430). Note that the RAM 213 has a storage area for storing reserved storage information by winning to the second start port 106. In this storage area, information indicating that the winning is made to the second starting port 106, winning random numbers, symbol random numbers, reach random number information, and the like are stored.

  Thereafter, a preliminary determination process is performed (step S431). In the pre-determination process, reach determination is performed in addition to the hit determination and symbol determination using each random number acquired in step S431. Thereafter, a special 2 reserved memory information increase command is set to indicate that the reserved memory information has increased due to winning at the second starting port 106 (step S432).

(Special symbol processing)
Next, the special symbol processing performed by the main control unit 201 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing special symbol processing performed by the main control unit 201. This special symbol process is a process content included in the symbol process of step S403 in FIG.

  In FIG. 5, the CPU 211 of the main control unit 201 determines whether or not a winning game is in progress (step S501). If the winning game is being played (step S501: Yes), the process is terminated as it is. If the winning game is not being played (step S501: No), it is determined whether or not the special symbol is changing (step S502). If the special symbol is changing (step S502: Yes), the process proceeds to step S511. If the special symbol is not changing (step S502: No), whether or not the count value U2 of the second start port detection counter as the stored storage information of the game ball won in the second start port 106 is "1" or more. Is determined (step S503).

  When the count value U2 is “1” or more (step S503: Yes), the value obtained by subtracting “1” from the count value U2 is set as new reserved storage information (step S504), and the process proceeds to step S507. In step S503, if the count value U2 is not equal to or greater than “1” (step S503: No), that is, if U2 is “0”, the first start as the stored storage information of the game ball won in the first start port 105 It is determined whether or not the count value U1 of the mouth detection counter is “1” or more (step S505). If the count value U1 is not equal to or greater than “1” (step S505: No), that is, if U1 is “0”, the process is terminated as it is.

  When the count value U1 is “1” or more (step S505: Yes), the value obtained by subtracting “1” from the count value U1 is set as new reserved storage information (step S506), and the process proceeds to step S507. Thereafter, a hit determination process is performed (step S507). The winning determination process is a process for determining whether or not the winning random number acquired when the game ball wins the first starting opening 105 or the second starting opening 106 matches a predetermined winning random number.

  As shown in steps S503 to S506, the game ball won in the second start port 106 is digested earlier than the game ball won in the first start port 105. Thereafter, the variation pattern selection process is performed (step S508). This variation pattern selection process is a process of selecting a variation pattern of a special symbol using the determination result of the hit determination process.

  Thereafter, a change start command is set in the RAM 213 (step S509), and the special symbol change is started (step S510). Then, it is determined whether or not the variation time of the special symbol has passed the variation time selected by the variation pattern selection process (step S511). If the fluctuation time has not elapsed (step S511: No), the processing is terminated as it is.

  When the variation time has elapsed (step S511: Yes), a variation stop command is set (step S512), and the variation of the special symbol is stopped (step S513). Thereafter, the stop process is executed (step S514), and the process ends. The stop process is a process of measuring the remaining number of times of the game state with time saving.

(Timer interrupt processing executed by the Production Control Department)
Next, a timer interrupt process executed by the effect supervision unit 202a of the effect control unit 202 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a timer interrupt process executed by the effect supervising unit 202a. This timer interruption process is a process in which the production control unit 202a performs an interrupt operation on the main production control process executed by the production control unit 202a every predetermined period (for example, 4 ms) during activation.

  In FIG. 6, the CPU 241 of the production control unit 202a executes a command reception process performed when a command is received from the main control unit 201 (step S601). Details of the command reception process will be described later with reference to FIG. Furthermore, the effect button process performed when the effect button 119 is operated is performed (step S602). Details of the effect button process will be described later with reference to FIG. And the process during a change production performed during a change production is performed (Step S603). Details of the processing during the changing effect will be described later with reference to FIG. Thereafter, a command transmission process for transmitting a command to the image / audio control unit 202b or the lamp control unit 202c is executed (step S604), and the process ends.

(Command reception processing)
Next, details of the command reception process shown in step S601 of FIG. 6 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a command reception process executed by the effect supervising unit 202a. In FIG. 7, the CPU 241 of the production control unit 202a determines whether or not a variation start command indicating the variation start of the special symbol has been received from the main control unit 201 (step S701). The change start command is a command set in the special symbol processing by the main control unit 201. The control content in the effect control unit 202, an instruction of what kind of effect pattern is mainly performed, and an instruction to start the effect pattern Doubles as (See step S509 in FIG. 5).

  When the change start command is not received (step S701: NO), the process proceeds to step S703. When the change start command is received (step S701: Yes), the effect selection process is executed (step S702). The effect selection process is a process of selecting the contents of the effect, and details will be described later with reference to FIG.

  Thereafter, it is determined whether or not a change stop command for stopping the effect symbol has been received (step S703). The change stop command is a command indicating change stop of the special symbol, and is a command set in the special symbol process of the main control unit 201 (see step S512 in FIG. 5).

  When the change stop command is not received (step S703: No), the process is ended as it is. When the change stop command is received (step S703: Yes), the production end command is set (step S704), and the process is ended.

(Direction selection process)
Next, details of the effect selection process shown in step S702 of FIG. 7 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an effect selection process executed by the effect supervising unit 202a. In FIG. 8, the CPU 241 of the effect supervision unit 202a analyzes the change start command (step S801). Specifically, in step S801, the game state of the main control unit 201, whether it is a hit or reach, whether or not a button is operated, and the like are analyzed. Thereafter, the mode flag is referred to (step S802).

  The mode flag is a flag set corresponding to the gaming state of the main control unit 201. For example, the probability changing mode in the probability variation gaming state, the time shortening mode in the time-short gaming state, the latent probability gaming state, or the latency probability mode after the small hit It is set for each mode such as the normal mode in the normal gaming state.

  Thereafter, a variation effect pattern selection process is executed (step S803). The variation effect pattern selection process is a process of selecting one of a plurality of types of effects prepared in advance. Specifically, an effect having the same reproduction time as the variation time of the special symbol obtained by analyzing the variation start command is selected. Thereby, the effect design is changed / stopped in accordance with the change / stop of the special design. Thereafter, an effect start command indicating the start of effect symbol variation is set (step S804), and the process ends.

(Direction button processing)
Next, the effect button process shown in step S602 of FIG. 6 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the effect button process executed by the effect control unit 202a. In FIG. 9, the CPU 241 of the effect supervision unit 202a determines whether or not the effect button 119 is ON by being operated by the player (step S901). If the effect button 119 is OFF (step S901: No), the process is terminated as it is.

  If the effect button is ON (step S901: Yes), an effect button command indicating that the effect button 119 has been operated is set (step S902), and the process ends. The set effect button command is transmitted to the image / sound control unit 202b and the lamp control unit 202c.

(Processing during fluctuation production)
Next, the variation effect processing shown in step S603 of FIG. 6 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the processing during changing effect executed by the effect supervising unit 202a. In FIG. 10, the CPU 241 of the effect supervision unit 202a determines whether or not there is a branching effect with a branch effect (step S1001). If it is not a branching effect (step S1001: No), the process is terminated as it is. If it is an effect with branching (step S1001: Yes), it is determined whether or not it is time to end the branching effect by the branch data (step S1002).

  When it is not the timing when the branch effect ends (step S1002: No), the processing is ended as it is. When it is time to end the branch effect (step S1002: Yes), a switching command for switching the data to be reproduced from the branch data to the basic data is set (step S1003), and the process ends.

(Image control processing)
Next, an image control process performed by the image / sound control unit 202b will be described with reference to FIGS. 11A and 11B. FIGS. 11A and 11B are flowcharts illustrating the image control process executed by the image / sound controller 202b. 11A and 11B, the CPU 251 of the image / sound control unit 202b determines whether or not an effect start command has been received (step S1101). The effect start command is a command set in the effect selection process of the effect control unit 202a (see step S804 in FIG. 8).

  When the production start command is not received (step S1101: No), the process proceeds to step S1104. When an effect start command is received (step S1101: Yes), an image data selection process for selecting an image to be displayed on the image display unit 104 is executed (step S1102). Then, the selected image data is set (step S1103). Since the image data set in step S1103 is image data at the start of production, it is mainly basic image data. Thereafter, it is determined whether or not there is a branching effect accompanied by a branching effect (step S1104).

  When it is not a branching effect (step S1104: No), the process proceeds to step S1115. If it is an effect with a branch (step S1104: Yes), it is determined whether or not it is during a predetermined effective period during which the player operates the effect button 119 (step S1105). When it is not in the valid period (step S1105: No), the process proceeds to step S1112. If it is during the effective period (step S1105: Yes), it is determined whether or not an effect button command has been received (step S1106). When the effect button command is received (step S1106: Yes), the basic image data is interrupted (step S1107), and the branch image data 1 is set (step S1108). An example of the effect screen using the branch image data 1 will be described later with reference to FIG.

  In step S1106, when the effect button command is not received (step S1106: No), it is determined whether or not the valid period has passed (step S1109). When the valid period has not elapsed (step S1109: No), the process proceeds to step S1112. If the valid period has elapsed (step S1109: Yes), the basic image data is interrupted (step S1110), and the branch image data 2 is set (step S1111). An example of the effect screen using the branch image data 2 will be described later with reference to FIG.

  Thereafter, it is determined whether or not a switching command for switching from branch data to basic data has been received (step S1112). The switch command is a command that is set in the changing effect processing of the effect control unit 202a (see step S1003 in FIG. 10). When the switching command is not received (step S1112: No), the process proceeds to step S1115. When the switching command is received (step S1112: Yes), the branch image data is stopped (step S1113), and the basic image data is set (step S1114).

  Thereafter, it is determined whether or not an effect end command has been received (step S1115). The effect end command is a command that is set in the command reception process of the effect control unit 202a (see step S704 in FIG. 7). When the effect end command is not received (step S1115: No), the process is ended as it is. When the effect end command is received (step S1115: Yes), the image data is stopped (step S1116), and the process is ended.

(Example of production screen)
Next, an example of the effect screen in the button effect will be described with reference to FIGS. 12 and 13. FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an effect screen based on the branch image data 1 when the effect button 119 is operated. Note that the branch image data 1 is data set in the image control processing shown in FIGS. 11A and 11B (see step S1108 in FIG. 11A).

  In FIG. 12, a timing chart 1201 indicates the output of basic image data or the output of branch image data 1. The effect screen 1202 shows transition of images displayed on the image display unit 104. The basic image data is output from the timing T1 when the effect start command is received until the effect button 119 is operated. On the effect screen 1210 at this time, an image 1203 where the change of the effect symbol is displayed is displayed, and when a predetermined time has elapsed, an image 1204 that prompts an operation to the effect button 119 is displayed.

  When an operation of the effect button 119 from the player is accepted, the output of the basic image data is interrupted at the accepted timing T2, and the branch image data 1 is output. At this time, an image based on the branch image data 1 is displayed on the effect screen 1220. When an image based on the branch image data 1 is displayed, the panel lamp 264 flashes rapidly in red. Thereafter, when the timing T3 for switching from the branch image data 1 to the basic image data is reached and the switching command is received, the output of the branch image data 1 is stopped, and the basic image data remains until the timing T4 when the effect end command is received. Is output.

  At timing T3, the effect screen 1230 immediately after receiving the switching command is, for example, an instantaneous effect that has an impact on a player who has shown thunder, and is a special effect in which an image is synchronized with various lamps and sounds. ing. Specifically, this special effect is an image that darkens the image and drops lightning. A special sound, which is a sound of lightning, is output together with an image of lightning, and the panel lamp 264 blinks rapidly in green. After the special effect on the effect screen 1230, the screen shifts to the effect screen 1240, and a reach effect is performed.

  FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of an effect screen based on the branch image data 2 when the effect button 119 is not operated. Note that the branch image data 2 is data set in the image control process shown in FIGS. 11A and 11B (see step S1111 in FIG. 11A).

  In FIG. 13, a timing chart 1301 shows the output of basic image data or the output of branch image data 2. The effect screen 1302 shows the transition of the image displayed on the image display unit 104. The basic image data is output from the timing T1 when the effect start command is received until the effect button 119 is operated. On the effect screen 1210 at this time, an image 1203 where the change of the effect symbol is displayed is displayed, and when a predetermined time has elapsed, an image 1204 that prompts an operation to the effect button 119 is displayed.

  Then, when an effective period in which the operation of the effect button 119 is effective without accepting the operation of the effect button 119 from the player, the output of the basic image data is interrupted at the timing T5 when the effective period has elapsed, and the branch image Data 2 is output. At this time, an image based on the branch image data 2 is displayed on the effect screen 1320. Thereafter, when the timing T3 for switching from the branch image data to the basic image data is reached and the switch command is received, the output of the branch image data 2 is stopped, the basic image data is output, and the effect screens 1230 and 1240 shown in FIG. An image similar to is displayed.

(Ramp control processing)
Next, a lamp control process performed by the lamp control unit 202c will be described with reference to FIGS. 14-1 and 14-2. In this embodiment, a case where lighting of the panel lamp 264 is controlled will be described. FIGS. 14A and 14B are flowcharts illustrating a lamp control process executed by the lamp control unit 202c. 14A and 14B, the CPU 261 of the lamp control unit 202c determines whether or not an effect start command has been received (step S1401). The effect start command is a command set in the effect selection process of the effect control unit 202a (see step S804 in FIG. 8).

  When the production start command is not received (step S1401: No), the process proceeds to step S1405. When an effect start command is received (step S1401: Yes), lamp data selection processing for selecting lighting data for lighting each lamp is executed (step S1402). Then, a layer is set using the selected ramp data (step S1403). An example of the layer set here will be described later with reference to FIGS. 15 and 16. After that, the layer-set ramp data is output (step S1404).

  The lamp data output in step S1404 includes at least basic lighting data set in the lower layer. Thereafter, it is determined whether or not there is a branching effect accompanied by a branching effect (step S1405).

  When it is not an effect with a branch (step S1405: No), it transfers to step S1420. If it is an effect with a branch (step S1405: Yes), it is determined whether or not it is during a predetermined effective period during which the player operates the effect button 119 (step S1406). When it is not during the effective period (step S1406: No), the process proceeds to step S1414. If it is during the effective period (step S1406: Yes), it is determined whether or not an effect button command has been received (step S1407).

  When the effect button command is received (step S1407: Yes), the button layer in which the branch lighting data 1 is set is set in the upper layer (step S1408), and the process proceeds to step S1411. An example of the button layer will be described later with reference to FIG.

  In step S1407, when the effect button command is not received (step S1407: No), it is determined whether or not the valid period has passed (step S1409). If the valid period has not elapsed (step S1409: NO), the process proceeds to step S1414. When the valid period has elapsed (step S1409: Yes), a non-button layer in which the branch lighting data 2 is set is set in the upper layer (step S1410). An example of the non-button layer will be described later with reference to FIG.

  Then, it is determined whether there is upper layer data (branch lighting data 1 or branch lighting data 2) in the button layer or the non-button layer (step S1411). When there is no higher layer data (step S1411: No), the process proceeds to step S1420. When there is higher layer data (step S1411: Yes), internal reproduction and output of lower layer data (basic lighting data), which is basic lighting data, are interrupted (step S1412), and higher layer data (branch lighting data 1 or Branch lighting data 2) is output (step S1413).

  Thereafter, it is determined whether or not a switching command for switching from branch lighting data to basic lighting data has been received (step S1414). The switch command is a command that is set in the changing effect processing of the effect control unit 202a (see step S1003 in FIG. 10). When the switching command is not received (step S1414: No), the process proceeds to step S1420. When the switching command is received (step S1414: Yes), the layer setting for re-outputting the basic lighting data set in the lower layer is performed (step S1415). An example of the layer set here will be described later with reference to FIGS. 15 and 16.

  Then, it is determined whether there is higher layer data in the set layer (step S1416). If there is no higher layer data (step S1416: No), the upper layer data being output (branch lighting data 1 or branch lighting data 2) is stopped (step S1417), and lower layer data (basic) set in the lower layer Lighting data) is output (step S1418).

  In step S1416, when there is higher layer data in the set layer (step S1416: Yes), higher layer data is set (step S1419). Thereafter, it is determined whether or not an effect end command has been received (step S1420). The effect end command is a command that is set in the command reception process of the effect control unit 202a (see step S704 in FIG. 7). When the effect end command is not received (step S1420: No), the process is ended as it is. When the effect end command is received (step S1420: Yes), the lamp data is stopped (step S1421), and the process is ended.

(Example of ramp data)
Next, an example of lamp data in the button effect will be described with reference to FIGS. 15 and 16. FIG. 15 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of lamp data when the effect button 119 is operated. 15 and 16, timings T1 to T5 are the same as the timings T1 to T5 shown in FIGS.

  In FIG. 15, ramp data 1501 is set as needed during the fluctuating effect, and associates layers with data. The layer can take up to eight levels from “0” to “7”, and data set in the highest layer (layer “8”) is preferentially output. A timing chart 1502 shows reproduction and output of set ramp data. The lamp data 1510 is set from the timing T1 when the effect start command is received until the effect button 119 is operated. The lamp data 1510 is data when a layer is set in the lamp control process shown in FIGS. 14-1 and 14-2 (see step S1403 in FIG. 14-1).

  In the lamp data 1510, only the basic lighting data A is stored in the lowest layer “0”. The basic lighting data A is data stored in the layer “0” from the start to the end of the changing effect. The basic lighting data A is composed of three data items a1, a2, and a3. The data a1 is, for example, data that causes the panel lamp 264 to blink green. The data a2 is, for example, data that causes the panel lamp 264 to blink rapidly in green. The data a3 is, for example, data that causes the panel lamp 264 to blink red. Data a1 is output from the timing T1 at which the lamp data 1510 is set to when the effect button 119 is operated from the timing T1 when the effect start command is received.

  And if operation of the production button 119 from a player is received, the ramp data 1520 will be set at the received timing T2. The lamp data 1520 is data that is set in the “button layer setting” of the lamp control process shown in FIGS. 14A and 14B (see step S1408 in FIG. 14A). In the lamp data 1520, basic lighting data A is stored in the lowest layer “0”, and branch lighting data B is stored in a layer “1” higher than the layer “0”.

  The branch lighting data B includes, for example, data b1 that causes the panel lamp 264 to blink rapidly in red. While the lamp data 1520 is set, internal reproduction and output of the basic lighting data A set to the layer “0” is interrupted, and the branch lighting data B set to the layer “1” is output. . When the branch lighting data B is output, an effect screen 1220 is displayed (see FIG. 12).

  Thereafter, when the timing T3 for switching to the ramp data 1530 is reached and a switching command is received, the ramp data 1530 is set. The lamp data 1530 is data set for outputting basic lighting data in the lamp control processing shown in FIGS. 14-1 and 14-2 (see step S1415 in FIG. 14-2).

  Data a2 and data a3 of the basic lighting data A are output from the time when the switch command is received until the timing T4 when the effect end command is received. That is, the output of the basic lighting data A set in the lower layer is resumed. At timing T3, data output immediately after receiving the switching command is data a2, which is data that causes the panel lamp 264 to blink rapidly in green, and an effect screen 1230 displayed on the image display unit 104 (see FIG. 12). ) And special effects. In other words, the panel lamp 264 is flashed in green at high speed in synchronization with the image and sound of lightning.

  FIG. 16 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of lamp data when the effect button 119 is not operated. In FIG. 16, ramp data 1601 is set at any time during the fluctuating effect, and associates layers with data. A timing chart 1602 shows reproduction and output of set ramp data. The lamp data 1510 is set from the timing T1 when the effect start command is received until the effect button 119 is operated.

  Ramp data 1620 is set when the valid period elapses and the timing T5 is reached without accepting the operation of the effect button 119 from the player. The lamp data 1620 is data that is set in the “non-button layer setting” of the lamp control process shown in FIGS. 14A and 14B (see step S1410 in FIG. 14A). In the lamp data 1620, basic lighting data A is stored in the lowest layer “0”, and branch lighting data C is stored in a layer “1” higher than the layer “0”.

  The branch lighting data C includes, for example, data c1 for blinking the panel lamp 264 in white. While the lamp data 1620 is set, internal reproduction and output of the basic lighting data A set to the layer “0” is interrupted, and branch lighting data C set to the layer “1” is output. .

  Thereafter, when the timing T3 for switching to the ramp data 1530 is reached and a switching command is received, the ramp data 1530 is set. The lamp data 1530 is data set for outputting basic lighting data in the lamp control processing shown in FIGS. 14-1 and 14-2 (see step S1415 in FIG. 14-2).

  Data a2 and data a3 of the basic lighting data A are output from the time when the switch command is received until the timing T4 when the effect end command is received. That is, the output of the basic lighting data A set in the lower layer is resumed. The data output immediately after receiving the switching command at timing T3 is data a2, which is data that causes the panel lamp 264 to blink rapidly in green, and a special effect synchronized with the image displayed on the image display unit 104. It has become. In other words, the panel lamp 264 is flashed in green at high speed in synchronization with the image and sound of lightning.

  In the present embodiment, data a2 and data a3 are used as the basic lighting data A after resumption. If the branch lighting data B and C are changed in time scale, the start timing of all data must be changed according to the number of data a after restarting such as data a2 and data a3. However, in this embodiment, it is only necessary to change the start timing after the restart regardless of the number of data a after the restart.

  In the present embodiment, the control for the panel lamp 264 has been described. However, it is possible to perform the same control not only for the panel lamp 264 but also for other lamps such as the gimmick 130 and the frame lamp 160. . Further, in the present embodiment, for convenience of explanation, the data set in the layers “0” and “1” has been described. For example, the data is set in the layers “6” and “7”. Similar to “0” and “1”, it is only necessary to consider the relationship between the upper layer and the lower layer between the respective layers.

  Furthermore, in the present embodiment, one branch has been described, but the same applies to a case where the branch is performed a plurality of times. Specifically, after the branch effect is performed, the effect is returned to the effect based on the basic data, and this may be repeated. For example, when a branch effect is performed three times, each time a branch effect is performed, the effect may be returned to the effect based on the basic data three times each time.

  In the present embodiment, the effect button 119 and the cross key 120 are connected to the effect control unit 202. This is because when the production button 119 is provided in the main control unit 201, a command for designating the production pattern must be transmitted to the production control unit 202 every time the production button 119 is operated, and the command processing becomes complicated. Therefore, the effect button 119 is directly connected to the effect supervising unit 202a to prevent this by detecting the operation.

  Furthermore, in this embodiment, according to the contents of the effect start command output from the main control unit 201, a plurality of effect control units 202 are selected in advance from the upper layer data and lower layer data. Thus, a plurality of layer data is developed simultaneously, and the main control unit 201 does not designate the detailed production contents of the upper layer data and the lower layer data. By doing in this way, the effect switching by the operation of the effect button 119 can be performed by the process of the effect control unit 202, and the processing load of the main control unit 201 can be reduced.

  As described above, in this embodiment, the basic data is interrupted while the branch data is reproduced, and the reproduction of the basic data is resumed after the reproduction of the branch data is completed. That is, when the same effect is performed after branching, the branched data are merged to use the same basic data. Therefore, even if there is a change in branch data, there is no need to change the data itself for the basic data that is replayed after restarting. Also, if there is a change in the basic data after restarting, only this basic data can be changed. Therefore, the labor required for changing each data can be reduced, and the designer's labor in the design stage can be reduced. In addition, it is possible to continuously branch the production with simple control.

  In the present embodiment, the effect using the basic data after the interruption is a special effect different from the effect using the basic data before being interrupted. Specifically, a dark image is displayed and an image of lightning is dropped, and the lamp is flashed at high speed and sound effect sound is output. By applying the present invention to such special effects, even if there is a change in the branch data, it is only necessary to change the start timing of the basic data, and the effort by the designer can be effectively suppressed.

  Furthermore, according to the present embodiment, since the basic data is interrupted, a complex in which an image and each lamp are associated with each branch data at an arbitrary timing such as an operation on the effect button 119. An effect can be performed (see, for example, the effect screen 1220 in FIG. 12 and the lamp data 1520 in FIG. 15). In addition, since the branch data is switched at an arbitrary timing such as an operation on the effect button 119, the reproduction time of the branch data varies depending on the presence or absence of the operation, but the restart of the basic data depends on the branch route. Since they are performed at the same time, it is possible to prevent a difference in the overall performance time between the two due to the branching.

100 Pachinko machines 104 Image display unit 130 Gimmick (Director)
133 Decorative lamp (Director)
160 Frame lamp (Director)
201 Main control unit 202 Production control unit 202a Production control unit 202b Image / sound control unit 202c Lamp control unit 254 Speaker (production unit)
264 panel lamp (Director)
301 Storage unit 302 Playback unit 303 Interruption unit (interruption means)
304 switching unit (switching means)
305 Resume unit (resume means)
306 Input unit (input means)

Claims (1)

The first basic data that is data for normal production, a plurality of branch data that is data for branching the production from the production by the first basic data, and the normal production is developed after the production by the branch data Storage means for storing second basic data for performing a reach production;
First reproduction control means for reproducing the first basic data stored in the storage means;
Interruption means for interrupting reproduction of the first basic data when a predetermined branch timing is reached;
Switching means for switching data to be reproduced to one branch data among the plurality of branch data stored in the storage means when reproduction of the first basic data is interrupted by the interruption means;
A second reproduction control unit that reproduces the second basic data stored in the storage unit when the effect by the one branch data switched by the switching unit is completed;
An image display unit provided on the game board for displaying images;
An effect unit that produces an effect together with the image displayed on the image display unit;
With
The second basic data is data for performing a special effect different from the normal effect and performing the reach effect after the special effect,
The pachinko gaming machine, wherein the special effect is an effect in which the image display unit and the effect unit are synchronized.

Images