JP2015039490A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To perform excellent display of an image.SOLUTION: A viewpoint ST of a virtual camera moves along a track KD1, and an image from the moving viewpoint ST is displayed to an image display device 5. When update setting of an arrangement position of an object is performed, for example, an object OB2 moves leftward and is arranged on the track KD1. Since the object OB2 is arranged on the track KD1, track change processing of the viewpoint is performed. A track KD2 of a new viewpoint is calculated and set so that it passes a position that does not contact the object OB2. The viewpoint ST of the virtual camera moves along the track KD2 of the new viewpoint. The viewpoint ST of the virtual camera passes by the object OB2 without contacting the object OB2.

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine.

  Conventionally, a predetermined start condition has been established after a start condition based on the entry of a game medium (eg, a game ball) into a start area (eg, a start prize opening) provided in the game area has been established. Based on the above, a variable display of a plurality of types of identification information (for example, special symbols, etc.) that can be distinguished from each other is performed, and a predetermined display result (for example, a jackpot symbol) is derived as a display result of the variable display. There is known a gaming machine that controls to a specific gaming state (for example, a big hit gaming state) that is advantageous to the player when played.

  As such a gaming machine, a game in which an object is arranged in a virtual three-dimensional space, a virtual camera moves on a predetermined trajectory in the virtual three-dimensional space, and an image captured by the virtual camera is displayed. There is a machine (for example, Patent Document 1).

JP 2012-50645 A

  However, in the technique described in Patent Document 1, when an object is placed on the trajectory of the virtual camera, the virtual camera is sunk into the object, and a suitable image cannot be displayed.

  This invention is made in view of the said actual condition, and aims at provision of the game machine which can perform the suitable display of an image.

(1) In order to achieve the above object, a gaming machine according to the present invention provides:
A predetermined trajectory (for example, the initial state set in step S502) in the virtual three-dimensional space in which the objects (for example, the objects OB1, OB2, and OB3 representing the buildings shown in FIGS. 13 and 14) are arranged. A gaming machine (for example, pachinko gaming machine 1 or the like) that displays an image from a viewpoint that moves according to the trajectory of the viewpoint of
The object according to the progress of the game (for example, according to the variable display result being “big hit”, the variable display state of the decorative symbol being reached, the predetermined notice effect being executed, etc.) An object arrangement update means (for example, an effect control CPU 120 that executes the process of step S507) for updating the arrangement position (for example, moving an object to another position or installing a new object);
When the object is placed on the predetermined trajectory, viewpoint changing means (for example, processing in step S510 or step S551) that performs the viewpoint changing processing (for example, viewpoint trajectory changing processing or viewpoint switching processing). CPU 120 for effect control to execute
It is characterized by providing.

  According to such a configuration, when an object is placed on a predetermined trajectory, the viewpoint is changed, so that a suitable image can be displayed.

(2) In the gaming machine of (1) above,
The viewpoint changing unit changes the viewpoint trajectory as the viewpoint changing process (for example, executes the viewpoint trajectory changing process in step S510).
It is characterized by that.

  According to such a structure, a viewpoint can be changed suitably.

(3) In the above gaming machine (1) or (2),
The viewpoint changing means switches the viewpoint to a viewpoint at a position different from the position of the viewpoint as the viewpoint changing process (for example, the viewpoint switching process shown in FIG. 15 is executed).
It is characterized by that.

  According to such a structure, a viewpoint can be changed suitably.

(4) In any of the above gaming machines (1) to (3),
In the virtual three-dimensional space, a hit determination object (for example, a hit determination object JOB2 shown in FIG. 14A) composed of a smaller number of polygons than the number of polygons constituting the object, Placed in correspondence with the object,
The viewpoint changing unit performs the viewpoint changing process when the hit determination object is arranged on the predetermined trajectory (for example, when it is determined Yes in step S509, the process of step S510). Run)
It is characterized by that.

  According to such a configuration, it is possible to determine whether or not an object is arranged on a predetermined trajectory using a hit determination object composed of a smaller number of polygons than the number of polygons constituting the object. , The burden on the judgment control can be reduced.

(5) In any of the above gaming machines (1) to (4),
When the power is turned on, the object is not placed on the predetermined trajectory (for example, the object in the three-dimensional virtual space is set to an initial placement position that is not placed on the viewpoint trajectory as a startup process. )
It is characterized by that.

  According to such a configuration, unintended display can be suppressed.

(6) In any of the above gaming machines (1) to (5),
The object arrangement updating means updates the arrangement position of the object to the same state as when the power is turned on when a predetermined condition is satisfied in the game (for example, when the variable display result is “big hit”).
It is characterized by that.

  According to such a configuration, unintended display can be suppressed.

It is a front view of the pachinko gaming machine in this embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the various control boards etc. which were mounted in the pachinko game machine. It is a block diagram which shows the structural example of a display control part. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a game control process process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of a setting of a fluctuation pattern. It is a flowchart which shows an example of production control process processing. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a variable display start setting process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example etc. of an effect control pattern. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the production process during variable display. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the image data process which VDP performs. It is a flowchart which shows an example of production control processing. It is a figure explaining the operation example in the case of performing a viewpoint trajectory change process as a viewpoint change process. It is a figure which shows an example of the production | presentation screen at the time of performing a three-dimensional display production. It is a figure which shows an example of the production | presentation screen at the time of performing a three-dimensional display production. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the viewpoint switching process which is another example of a viewpoint change process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a regular switching process. It is a figure explaining the operation example at the time of performing a viewpoint switching process as a viewpoint change process.

  Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine according to the present embodiment and shows an arrangement layout of main members. The pachinko gaming machine (gaming machine) 1 is roughly composed of a gaming board (gauge board) 2 constituting a gaming board surface and a gaming machine frame (base frame) 3 for supporting and fixing the gaming board 2. The game board 2 is formed with a substantially circular game area surrounded by guide rails. In this game area, a game ball as a game medium is launched from a predetermined hitting ball launching device and driven.

  A first special symbol display device 4A and a second special symbol display device 4B are provided at predetermined positions of the game board 2 (in the example shown in FIG. 1, on the right side of the game area). Each of the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B is composed of, for example, 7-segment or dot matrix LEDs (light emitting diodes) and the like. Special symbols (also referred to as “special graphics”), which are a plurality of types of identification information (special identification information) that can be displayed, are variably displayed (variable display). For example, the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B each variably display a plurality of types of special symbols composed of numbers indicating "0" to "9", symbols indicating "-", and the like. To do.

  The special symbols displayed on the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B are limited to those composed of numbers indicating "0" to "9", symbols indicating "-", and the like. However, for example, a plurality of types of lighting patterns in which the combination of the LED to be turned on and the LED to be turned off in the 7-segment LED may be set in advance as a plurality of types of special symbols. Hereinafter, the special symbol variably displayed on the first special symbol display device 4A is also referred to as "first special symbol", and the special symbol variably displayed on the second special symbol display device 4B is also referred to as "second special symbol". .

  An image display device 5 is provided near the center of the game area on the game board 2. The image display device 5 is composed of, for example, an LCD (liquid crystal display device) or the like, and forms a display area for displaying various effect images. In the display area of the image display device 5, the first special symbol variable display by the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol variable display by the second special symbol display device 4B in the special symbol game respectively correspond to the variable display. For example, in a decorative symbol display area serving as a plurality of variable display units such as three, decorative symbols that are a plurality of types of identification information (decorative identification information) that can be identified are variably displayed. This variable display of decorative designs is also included in the variable display game.

  As an example, “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas are arranged in the display area of the image display device 5. And in response to the start of one of the changes in the first special symbol in the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol in the second special symbol display device 4B in the special symbol game, In each of the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas, variation of decorative symbols (for example, scroll display in the vertical direction) is started. Thereafter, when the fixed special symbol is stopped and displayed as a variable display result in the special symbol game, the decorative symbol can be changed in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas in the image display device 5. The confirmed decorative symbol (final stop symbol) that is the display result is stopped and displayed.

  As described above, in the display area of the image display device 5, a special game using the first special graphic in the first special symbol display device 4A or a special graphic using the second special graphic in the second special symbol display device 4B is used. In synchronism with the figure game, variable display of a plurality of types of decorative symbols that can be identified is performed, and a definite decorative symbol that is a variable display result is derived and displayed (or simply referred to as “derivation”). In addition, for example, deriving and displaying various display symbols such as a special symbol and a decorative symbol means that identification information such as a decorative symbol is stopped and displayed (also referred to as a complete stop display or a final stop display) and the variable display is ended. . On the other hand, during the variable display from the start of the variable display of the decorative pattern until the fixed decorative pattern that is the variable display result is derived and displayed, the variation speed of the decorative pattern becomes “0”, The symbol may be displayed in a stationary state, for example, in a display state that causes slight shaking or expansion / contraction. Such a display state is also called a temporary stop display, and although the display result in the variable display is not displayed deterministically, the player can recognize that the variation of the decorative pattern due to the scroll display or the update display is not progressing. It becomes. The temporary stop display may include displaying the decorative symbols completely stopped for a time shorter than a predetermined time (for example, 1 second) without causing slight shaking or expansion / contraction.

  On the screen of the image display device 5, a start winning memory display area 5H is arranged. In the start winning memory display area 5H, a hold memory display for displaying the variable display hold number corresponding to the special figure game (special figure hold memory number) is specified. Here, the variable display hold corresponding to the special game is the pachinko gaming machine 1 such as the first start winning opening formed by the normal winning ball apparatus 6A and the second starting winning opening formed by the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B. The start area provided in the game area is generated based on the start winning when the game ball passes (enters). That is, the start condition (also referred to as “execution condition”) for executing a variable display game such as a special figure game or a variable display of decorative symbols has been established, but a variable display game based on the previously established start condition is being executed. When the start condition that allows the start of the variable display game is not satisfied due to the fact that the pachinko gaming machine 1 is controlled to the big hit gaming state, the variable display corresponding to the established start condition is suspended. Done.

  For example, a special game start condition (first start condition) using the first special figure by the first special symbol display device 4A due to the occurrence of the first start prize that the game ball passes (enters) through the first start prize opening. ) Is satisfied, if the first start condition for starting the special figure game using the first special figure based on the establishment of the first start condition is not satisfied, the first special figure holding storage number is 1. Addition (increment) is made, and execution of the special figure game using the first special figure is suspended. In addition, when the second start winning that the game ball passes (enters) through the second start winning opening is generated, the start condition of the special figure game using the second special figure by the second special symbol display device 4B (second start condition) ) Is established, if the second start condition for starting the special figure game using the second special figure based on the establishment of the second start condition is not established, the second special figure holding memory number is 1. Addition (increment) is made, and execution of the special figure game using the second special figure is suspended. On the other hand, when the execution of the special figure game using the first special figure is started, the first special figure holding memory number is decremented by 1 (decrement), and the special figure game using the second special figure is executed. Is started, the second special figure reserved memory number is decremented by 1 (decremented).

  The variable display hold memory number obtained by adding the first special figure hold memory number and the second special figure hold memory number is also referred to as a total hold memory number. When simply referring to the “number of special figure hold memory”, it usually refers to a concept including any of the first special figure hold memory number, the second special figure hold memory number, and the total hold memory number. It may refer to a concept that includes the first special figure reserved memory number and the second special figure reserved memory number but excludes the total reserved memory number).

  A display for displaying the number of reserved special figure memories may be provided together with the start winning memory display area 5H or instead of the start winning memory display area 5H. In the example shown in FIG. 1, together with the start winning memory display area 5H, the first hold for displaying the special figure hold memory number in an identifiable manner on the upper part of the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B. A display 25A and a second hold display 25B are provided. The first hold indicator 25A displays the first special figure hold memory number so that it can be specified. The second hold indicator 25B displays the second special figure hold memory number so that it can be specified. Each of the first hold indicator 25A and the second hold indicator 25B has a number (for example, 4) corresponding to an upper limit value (for example, “4”) in each of the first special figure hold memory number and the second special figure hold memory number, for example. LED).

  Below the image display device 5, an ordinary winning ball device 6A and an ordinary variable winning ball device 6B are provided. The normal winning ball device 6A forms a first starting winning opening as a starting area (first starting area) that is always kept in a constant open state by a predetermined ball receiving member, for example. The normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B is an electric tulip-type accessory having a pair of movable wing pieces that are changed between a closed state in a vertical position and an open state in a tilt position by a solenoid 81 for a normal electric accessory shown in FIG. (Ordinary electric accessory) is provided and a second start winning opening is formed.

  As an example, in the normally variable winning ball apparatus 6B, the movable wing piece is in the vertical position when the solenoid 81 for the ordinary electric accessory is in the off state, so that the game ball passes (enters) through the second start winning opening. Do not close. On the other hand, in the normally variable winning ball apparatus 6B, when the solenoid 81 for the normal electric accessory is in the ON state, the movable wing piece is in the tilting position, so that the game ball passes (enters) the second starting winning hole. ) Make it open. The normally variable winning ball apparatus 6B is normally opened when the solenoid 81 is in the off state, and the game ball can enter (pass) through the second start winning opening, while the expansion when the solenoid 81 is in the on state. You may comprise so that a game ball may enter (pass) more easily than an open state. As described above, the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B has the first variable state such as the open state or the expanded open state in which the game ball can pass (enter) through the second start winning port, and the game ball cannot pass (enter). It is configured to be able to change to a second variable state such as a closed state or a normally open state that is difficult to pass (enter).

  A game ball that has entered the first start winning opening formed in the normal winning ball apparatus 6A is detected by, for example, a first start opening switch 22A shown in FIG. A game ball that has entered the second start winning opening formed in the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B is detected by, for example, a second start opening switch 22B shown in FIG. Based on the detection of the game ball by the first start port switch 22A, a predetermined number (for example, three) of game balls are paid out as prize balls (prize game media), and the first reserved memory number is a predetermined upper limit value. If it is less than (for example, “4”), the first start condition is satisfied. Based on the detection of the game ball by the second start port switch 22B, a predetermined number (for example, three) of game balls are paid out as prize balls, and if the second reserved memory number is equal to or less than a predetermined upper limit value, The second start condition is satisfied.

  The number of prize balls to be paid out based on the detection of the game ball by the first start port switch 22A and the number of prize balls to be paid out based on the detection of the game ball by the second start port switch 22B. May be the same number or different numbers. The pachinko gaming machine 1 may be one that directly pays out game balls that are prize balls, or may be one that gives a score corresponding to the number of game balls that are prize balls.

  A special variable winning ball device 7 is provided below the normal winning ball device 6A and the normal variable winning ball device 6B. The special variable winning ball apparatus 7 includes a special winning opening door that is opened and closed by a solenoid 82 for the special winning opening door shown in FIG. 2, and the specific region that changes between an open state and a closed state by the special winning opening door. As a big prize opening.

  As an example, in the special variable winning ball apparatus 7, when the solenoid 82 for the special prize opening door is in the OFF state, the special prize opening door closes the big winning prize opening, and the game ball passes (enters) the big winning prize opening. become unable. On the other hand, in the special variable winning ball apparatus 7, when the solenoid 82 for the big prize opening door is in the ON state, the big winning opening door opens the big winning opening and the game ball passes through the big winning opening (entrance). ). In this way, the special winning opening as a specific area changes into an open state in which a game ball easily passes (enters) and is advantageous to the player, and a closed state in which the game ball cannot pass (enters) and is disadvantageous to the player To do. Instead of the closed state where the game ball cannot pass (enter) through the big prize opening, or in addition to the closed state, a partially opened state where the game ball hardly passes (enters) through the big prize port may be provided.

  The game ball that has passed (entered) through the big prize opening is detected by, for example, the count switch 23 shown in FIG. Based on the detection of game balls by the count switch 23, a predetermined number (for example, 14) of game balls are paid out as prize balls. In this way, when the game ball passes (enters) through the large winning opening opened in the special variable winning ball apparatus 7, the gaming ball passes through other winning openings such as the first starting winning opening and the second starting winning opening, for example. More prize balls are paid out than when passing (entering). Therefore, if the special prize winning ball device 7 is in the open state, the game ball can enter the special prize winning opening, which is a first state advantageous to the player. On the other hand, when the special prize winning device 7 is closed in the special variable prize winning ball device 7, it becomes impossible or difficult for the player to get a prize ball by passing (entering) the gaming ball into the special prize winning port. This is a disadvantageous second state.

  A normal symbol display 20 is provided at a predetermined position of the game board 2 (on the left side of the game area in the example shown in FIG. 1). As an example, the normal symbol display 20 is composed of 7 segments, dot matrix LEDs, and the like, like the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B, and a plurality of types of identification information different from the special symbols. Is displayed (variably displayed) in a variable manner. Such variable display of normal symbols is called a general game (also referred to as “normal game”). Above the normal symbol display 20, a universal figure holding display 25 </ b> C is provided. The general-purpose hold indicator 25C includes, for example, four LEDs, and displays the general-purpose hold storage number as the number of effective passing balls that have passed through the passing gate 41.

  In addition to the above-described configuration, the surface of the game board 2 is provided with a windmill for changing the flow direction and speed of the game ball and a number of obstacle nails. In addition, as a winning opening different from the first starting winning opening, the second starting winning opening, and the large winning opening, for example, a single or plural general winning openings that are always kept in a certain open state by a predetermined ball receiving member are provided. May be. In this case, a predetermined number (for example, 10) of game balls may be paid out as a prize ball based on the fact that a game ball that has entered one of the general prize openings is detected by a predetermined general prize ball switch. In the lowermost part of the game area, there is provided an out port through which game balls that have not entered any winning port are taken.

  Speakers 8L and 8R for reproducing and outputting sound effects and the like are provided at the left and right upper positions of the gaming machine frame 3, and a game effect lamp 9 is provided at the periphery of the game area. A decorative LED may be arranged around each structure (for example, the normal winning ball device 6A, the normal variable winning ball device 6B, the special variable winning ball device 7, etc.) in the game area of the pachinko gaming machine 1. At the lower right position of the gaming machine frame 3, there is provided a hitting operation handle (operation knob) operated by a player or the like to launch a game ball as a game medium toward the game area. For example, the hitting operation handle adjusts the resilience of the game ball according to the operation amount (rotation amount) by the player or the like.

  At a predetermined position of the gaming machine frame 3 below the gaming area, a game ball paid out as a prize ball or a game ball lent out by a predetermined ball lending machine is held (stored) so as to be supplied to a ball hitting device. )) Is provided. Below the gaming machine frame 3, there is provided a lower plate that holds (stores) surplus balls overflowing from the upper plate so as to be discharged to the outside of the pachinko gaming machine 1.

  For example, a stick controller 31A that can be held and tilted by the player is attached to a member that forms the lower plate, for example, at a predetermined position on the front side of the upper surface of the lower plate main body (for example, a central portion of the lower plate). Yes. The stick controller 31A includes an operation stick that the player holds, and a trigger button is provided at a predetermined position of the operation stick (for example, a position where the index finger of the operator is hooked when the player holds the operation stick). Yes. The trigger button can be operated in a predetermined direction by performing a push-pull operation with a predetermined operation finger (for example, an index finger) in a state where the player holds the operation stick of the stick controller 31A with an operation hand (for example, the left hand). What is necessary is just to be comprised. A trigger sensor that detects a predetermined instruction operation such as a push / pull operation on the trigger button may be incorporated in the operation rod.

  A controller sensor unit 35A including a tilt direction sensor unit that detects a tilting operation with respect to the operating rod may be provided inside the lower pan body or the like below the stick controller 31A. For example, the tilt direction sensor unit includes two transmissive photosensors (parallel sensors) arranged in parallel to the board surface of the game board 2 on the left side of the center position of the operation pole when viewed from the player side facing the pachinko gaming machine 1. And a pair of transmissive photosensors (vertical sensor pairs) arranged perpendicularly to the surface of the game board 2 on the right side of the center position of the operation rod when viewed from the player side. What is necessary is just to be comprised including the photo sensor.

  The member that forms the upper plate includes, for example, a push button 31B that allows a player to perform a predetermined instruction operation by a pressing operation or the like at a predetermined position on the front side of the upper surface of the upper plate body (for example, above the stick controller 31A). Is provided. The push button 31B 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 35 </ b> B that detects a player's operation performed on the push button 31 </ b> B may be provided inside the upper plate body at the position where the push button 31 </ b> B is installed.

  Various control boards such as a main board 11, an effect control board 12, an audio control board 13, and a lamp control board 14 as shown in FIG. 2 are mounted on the pachinko gaming machine 1. The pachinko gaming machine 1 is also equipped with a relay board 15 for relaying various control signals transmitted between the main board 11 and the effect control board 12. In addition, various boards such as a payout control board, an information terminal board, a launch control board, an interface board, and a touch sensor board are arranged on the back of the game board or the like in the pachinko gaming machine 1.

  The main board 11 is a main-side control board, and various circuits for controlling the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1 are mounted. The main board 11 is mainly addressed to a sub-side control board composed of a random number setting function used in a special game, a function of inputting a signal from a switch or the like disposed at a predetermined position, and an effect control board 12. A function of outputting and transmitting a control command as an example of command information as a control signal, a function of outputting various information to a hall management computer, and the like are provided. In addition, the main board 11 performs on / off control of each LED (for example, segment LED) constituting the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B, and thereby the first special diagram and the second special diagram. Variable display of a predetermined display pattern such as controlling the variable display of the normal symbol display 20 or controlling the variable symbol display of the normal symbol display 20 by controlling the lighting / extinction / coloring control of the normal symbol display 20. It also has a function to control.

  On the main board 11, for example, a game control microcomputer 100, a switch circuit 110, a solenoid circuit 111, and the like are mounted. The switch circuit 110 takes in detection signals from various switches for detecting game balls and transmits them to the game control microcomputer 100. The solenoid circuit 111 transmits the solenoid drive signal from the game control microcomputer 100 to the solenoid 81 for the ordinary electric accessory and the solenoid 82 for the big prize door.

  The effect control board 12 is a sub-side control board independent of the main board 11, receives the control signal transmitted from the main board 11 via the relay board 15, and receives the image display device 5, the speakers 8L, 8R. In addition, various circuits for controlling the rendering operation by the electrical components for rendering such as the game effect lamp 9 and the decoration LED are mounted. That is, the effect control board 12 performs all or part of the display operation in the image display device 5, all or part of the sound output operation from the speakers 8L and 8R, and all or one of the on / off operations in the game effect lamp 9 and the decoration LED. A function of determining the control content for causing the electrical component for production to execute a predetermined production operation, such as a section.

  The sound control board 13 is a control board for sound output control provided separately from the effect control board 12, and outputs sound from the speakers 8L and 8R based on commands and control data from the effect control board 12. For example, a processing circuit for executing audio signal processing is mounted. The lamp control board 14 is a control board for lamp output control that is provided separately from the effect control board 12, and based on commands and control data from the effect control board 12, the game effect lamp 9, LED for decoration, etc. A lamp driver circuit that performs on / off driving is mounted.

  As shown in FIG. 2, detection signals from various switches such as a gate switch 21, a start port switch (first start port switch 22 </ b> A and second start port switch 22 </ b> B), and a count switch 23 are transmitted to the main board 11. Wiring is connected. In addition, various switches should just have arbitrary structures which can detect the game ball | bowl as game media like what is called a sensor, for example. Further, the main board 11 is connected with wiring for transmitting a command signal for performing display control, such as the first special symbol display device 4A, the second special symbol display device 4B, and the normal symbol display device 20.

  A control signal transmitted from the main board 11 toward the effect control board 12 is relayed by the relay board 15. The control command transmitted from the main board 11 to the effect control board 12 via the relay board 15 is, for example, an effect control command transmitted and received as an electric signal. The effect control command includes, for example, a display control command used for controlling an image display operation in the image display device 5, a voice control command used for controlling sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R, and a game effect lamp 9. And a lamp control command used for controlling the lighting operation of the decoration LED and the like. Each of these effect control commands has, for example, a 2-byte configuration, the first byte indicates MODE (command classification), and the second byte indicates EXT (command type). The first bit (bit 7) of the MODE data is always set to “1” and the first bit of the EXT data may be set to “0” in advance.

  The game control microcomputer 100 mounted on the main board 11 is, for example, a one-chip microcomputer, and includes a ROM (Read Only Memory) 101 for storing a game control program, fixed data, and the like, and a game control work. A RAM (Random Access Memory) 102 that provides an area, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 103 that executes a control program by executing a game control program, and updates numeric data indicating random values independently of the CPU 103 A random number circuit 104 to perform and an I / O (Input / Output port) 105 are provided.

  As an example, in the game control microcomputer 100, a process for controlling the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1 is executed by the CPU 103 executing a program read from the ROM 101. At this time, the CPU 103 reads fixed data from the ROM 101, the CPU 103 writes various fluctuation data to the RAM 102 and temporarily stores the fluctuation data, and the CPU 103 temporarily stores the various fluctuation data. The CPU 103 receives the input of various signals from outside the game control microcomputer 100 via the I / O 105, and the CPU 103 goes outside the game control microcomputer 100 via the I / O 105. A transmission operation for outputting various signals is also performed.

  Note that the one-chip microcomputer constituting the game control microcomputer 100 only needs to incorporate the RAM 102 in addition to the CPU 103, and the ROM 101, the random number circuit 104, the I / O 105, and the like may be externally attached.

  In the game control microcomputer 100, for example, the random number circuit 104 or the like counts the numerical data indicating various random values used for controlling the progress of the game in an updatable manner. The random number used for controlling the progress of the game is also called a game random number. The game random number may be updated by hardware such as the random number circuit 104 or may be updated by software when the CPU 103 of the game control microcomputer 100 executes a predetermined computer program. May be. For example, the random counter provided in a predetermined area (game control counter setting unit or the like) of the RAM 102 in the game control microcomputer 100 or a random counter provided in an internal register separate from the RAM 102 indicates a predetermined random number value. The random number value may be updated by storing numerical data and the CPU 103 updating the stored value regularly or irregularly.

  In addition to the game control program, the ROM 101 provided in the game control microcomputer 100 stores various selection data and table data used to control the progress of the game. For example, the ROM 101 stores data constituting a plurality of determination tables, determination tables, setting tables and the like prepared for the CPU 103 to perform various determinations, determinations, and settings. Further, the ROM 101 includes table data constituting a plurality of command tables used for the CPU 103 to transmit control signals serving as various control commands from the main board 11 and a variation pattern table storing a plurality of types of variation patterns. Table data to be stored is stored. In the RAM 102 provided in the game control microcomputer 100, various data used for controlling the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1 are temporarily stored so as to be rewritable.

  The effect control board 12 includes an effect control CPU 120 that performs a control operation in accordance with a program, a ROM 121 that stores an effect control program, fixed data, and the like, a RAM 122 that provides a work area for the effect control CPU 120, and an image display device. 5, a display control unit 123 that executes processing for determining the control content of the display operation in FIG. 5, a random number circuit 124 that updates the numerical data indicating the random number value independently of the effect control CPU 120, and the I / O 125. And are installed.

  As an example, in the effect control board 12, when the effect control CPU 120 executes an effect control program read from the ROM 121, a process for controlling the effect operation by the effect electric component is executed. At this time, the effect control CPU 120 reads the fixed data from the ROM 121, the effect control CPU 120 writes the various data to the RAM 122 and temporarily stores the data, and the effect control CPU 120 stores the effect data in the RAM 122. Fluctuation data reading operation for reading out various fluctuation data temporarily stored, the reception control CPU 120 for receiving the input of various signals from the outside of the presentation control board 12 via the I / O 125, and the presentation control CPU 120 for I / O A transmission operation for outputting various signals to the outside of the effect control board 12 via O125 is also performed.

  The effect control CPU 120, the ROM 121, and the RAM 122 may be included in a one-chip effect control microcomputer mounted on the effect control board 12. In the effect control board 12, wiring for transmitting a video signal to the image display device 5, wiring for transmitting a sound effect signal as an information signal indicating sound number data to the sound control board 13, Wiring for transmitting an electrical decoration signal as an information signal indicating lamp data is connected to the lamp control board 14. Furthermore, on the effect control board 12, wiring for transmitting from the controller sensor unit 35A an operation detection signal as an information signal indicating that the player's operation action on the stick controller 31A has been detected, and a game for the push button 31B. Wiring for transmitting from the push sensor 35B an operation detection signal as an information signal indicating that the user's operation action has been detected is also connected.

  On the effect control board 12, for example, the random number circuit 124 or the like counts the numerical data indicating various random values used for controlling the effect operation so as to be updatable. The random number used for controlling such a production operation is also called a production random number.

  In addition to the effect control program, the ROM 121 mounted on the effect control board 12 shown in FIG. 2 stores various data tables used for controlling the effect operation. For example, the ROM 121 includes a plurality of determination tables prepared for the effect control CPU 120 to perform various determinations, determinations, and settings, table data configuring the determination table, pattern data configuring various effect control patterns, and the like. It is remembered. The effect control pattern is, for example, from process data including effect control execution data (display control data, sound control data, lamp control data, operation detection control data, etc.) associated with the effect control process timer determination value, an end code, and the like. It is configured. The RAM 122 mounted on the effect control board 12 stores various data used for controlling the effect operation.

  The display control unit 123 mounted on the effect control board 12 determines the control content of the display operation in the image display device 5 based on the display control command from the effect control CPU 120. For example, the display control unit 123 performs control for executing decorative display variable display and various effect displays by determining the switching timing of effect images to be displayed in the display area of the image display device 5. As an example, FIG. 3 shows a configuration example of the display control unit 123. The display control unit 123 shown in FIG. 3 includes a VDP (Video Display Processor) 130, an image data memory 131, a VRAM (Video RAM) 132A, a frame buffer 132B, and an LCD drive circuit 133. Note that the VDP 130 may be a graphics processing unit (GPU), a graphics controller LSI (GCL), or a microprocessor for image processing, more commonly referred to as a DSP (Digital Signal Processor). The image data memory 131 may be a non-rewritable semiconductor memory, a rewritable semiconductor memory such as a flash memory, or a non-volatile recording medium such as a magnetic memory or an optical memory, for example. It is sufficient if it is configured using

  The VDP 130 has, for example, an image data processing function such as a high-speed drawing function and a moving image decoding function for displaying various images on the screen of the image display device 5, and image data in accordance with a display control command from the effect control CPU 120. An image processor that executes processing. The image data memory 131 stores various image data (image element data) indicating the display image on the image display device 5 in advance. For example, the image data stored in the image data memory 131 includes a plurality of types of image element data corresponding to a plurality of types of effect images, such as a plurality of types of decorative symbols variably displayed on the image display device 5. The VRAM 132A temporarily stores image element data read from the image data memory 131, and provides a work area for the VDP 130 to execute image data processing. The frame buffer 132B provides a virtual display area in which display data for effect images created by drawing processing by the VDP 130 is developed and stored. The display data expanded and stored in the frame buffer 132B may be pixel data (raster data) created by the VDP 130 based on vector data (vector data) such as points, lines, and polygons. The frame buffer 132B stores an actual display area that stores display data for various images displayed in the display area of the image display device 5, and display data for various images that are not displayed in the display area of the image display device 5. May be included. Alternatively, display data for displaying a screen having the same size as the display area of the image display device 5 is created in the virtual display area of the frame buffer 132B, and the display data of the virtual display area read by the VDP 130 is displayed. By being supplied to the LCD drive circuit 133, it may be output to the image display device 5 side. The VRAM 132A and the frame buffer 132B may be secured as separate storage areas in the same semiconductor memory (SDRAM or the like), or may be configured using separate semiconductor memories.

  The VDP 130 reads display data from the frame buffer 132 </ b> B, creates gradation data (color signal data) of each pixel constituting the display area of the image display device 5, and outputs it to the LCD drive circuit 133. The LCD driving circuit 133 generates a color signal corresponding to the gradation data (color signal data) supplied from the VDP 130, generates a scanning signal based on a predetermined clock signal, and outputs the scanning signal to the image display device 5. This is a circuit for displaying various images in the display area of the image display device 5 by, for example.

  The VDP 130 may include a scaler circuit that converts the number of pixels of display data read from the frame buffer 132 </ b> B and generates gradation data of each pixel constituting the display area of the image display device 5. Display data read from the frame buffer 132B is input to the scaler circuit, and pixel data is enlarged (or reduced) at a predetermined enlargement ratio in one or both of the vertical direction and the horizontal direction. The number of pixels is converted. For example, the scaler circuit can convert the number of pixels of the pixel data by using bilinear filtering that obtains the pixel values after enlargement from the four pixel values before enlargement by linear interpolation. The vertical and horizontal enlargement ratios in the scaler circuit can be individually set by, for example, a display control command from the effect control CPU 120.

  The I / O 125 mounted on the effect control board 12 includes, for example, an input port for capturing an effect control command transmitted from the main board 11 and the like, and an output port for transmitting various signals to the outside of the effect control board 12. It is comprised including. For example, from the output port of the I / O 125, a video signal transmitted to the image display device 5, a command (sound effect signal) transmitted to the sound control board 13, and a command transmitted to the lamp control board 14 (Lighting signal) etc. are output.

  On the voice control board 13, for example, an input / output driver, a voice synthesis IC, a voice data ROM, an amplifier circuit, a volume, and the like are mounted. As an example, in the voice control board 13, the sound number data indicated in the sound effect signal transmitted from the effect control board 12 is input to the voice synthesis IC via the input / output driver. The voice synthesis IC generates voice and sound effects corresponding to the sound number data and outputs them to the amplifier circuit. The amplifier circuit outputs an audio signal obtained by amplifying the output level of the speech synthesis IC to a level corresponding to the volume set by the volume to the speakers 8L and 8R. The voice data ROM stores control data corresponding to the sound number data, and the voice synthesis IC reads out the control data corresponding to the sound number data to generate voice and sound effects. The data stored in the audio data ROM may be composed of data indicating the output mode of audio and sound effects in a predetermined period in time series.

  For example, an input / output driver and a lamp driver are mounted on the lamp control board 14. As an example, in the lamp control board 14, the electrical decoration signal transmitted from the effect control board 12 is input to the lamp driver via the input / output driver. The lamp driver amplifies the electric decoration signal and supplies it to the game effect lamp 9 and the decoration LED.

  In the pachinko gaming machine 1, a predetermined game using a game ball as a game medium is performed, and a predetermined game value can be given based on the game result.

  As an example of a game using a game ball, a predetermined hit ball is based on a predetermined operation (for example, a rotation operation) performed by a player on a hit ball operation handle 30 installed on the lower right side of the front surface of the housing of the pachinko gaming machine 1. A game ball as a game medium is launched toward a game area by a launch motor provided in the launch device. When the game ball flowing down the game area passes (enters) the first start winning opening (first start area) formed in the normal winning ball apparatus 6A, the game ball is detected by the first start opening switch 22A. Based on this, a start condition (first start condition) for executing variable display of the special symbol (first special symbol) by the first special symbol display device 4A is established. Further, when the game ball passes (enters) the second start winning opening (second start area) formed in the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B, the game ball is detected by the second start opening switch 22B. Thus, a start condition (second start condition) for executing variable display of the special symbol (second special symbol) by the second special symbol display device 4B is established.

  Although the variable display start condition (the first start condition or the second start condition) is satisfied, for example, when the variable display based on the previously established start condition is executed, or the gaming state is controlled to the big hit gaming state If the variable display cannot be started, such as when it is being performed, it is variable until a predetermined upper limit value (for example, “4” corresponding to each of the first special figure and the second special figure) is reached. Display execution is suspended.

  A start condition (first start condition or second start condition) for starting variable display after the game ball passes (enters) the first start winning opening and the second start winning opening and the variable display start condition is satisfied. ) Is established, whether or not to make the variable display result “big hit” as a predetermined specific display result is determined before the variable display result is derived and displayed.

  Then, the variation pattern is determined at a predetermined ratio based on the determination of the variable display result, and an effect control command for specifying the variable display result and the change pattern is specified from the main board 11 to the effect control board 12. Is transmitted. Based on the determination of the variable display result and the variation pattern, variable display of special symbols and decorative symbols is started. After that, for example, when a predetermined variable display time corresponding to the variation pattern has elapsed, a fixed symbol that is a variable display result is stopped and displayed (derived display).

  In the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R provided in the display area of the image display device 5, decorative symbols corresponding to the special game are variably displayed. In the period from the start of the variable display of the decorative symbols to the end of the variable display by the stop display of the fixed decorative symbols in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R, The decorative display variable display state may be a reach state. Here, the decorative display variable display state is a decoration that has not been stopped and displayed yet when the decorative pattern that is stopped and displayed in any of the decorative design display areas constitutes a part of a predetermined jackpot combination. Reach status for symbols (also referred to as “reach variation symbols”) by continuing variation, or by changing all or part of the decorative symbols synchronously while constituting all or part of the jackpot combination It becomes.

  Specifically, in some of the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R (for example, “left” and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L and 5R) in advance. The remaining decorative symbol display area (for example, “medium”) that has not yet been stopped when the decorative symbol (for example, the decorative symbol indicating the alphanumeric character “7”) that constitutes the determined jackpot combination is stopped. In the symbol display area 5C, etc., the decorative symbols may be a big hit combination by changing the decorative symbols, or in all or part of the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R. The variable display state of the decorative symbol becomes the reach state by changing in synchronism while constituting all or a part.

  Corresponding to the fact that the variable display state of the decorative design has reached the reach state, the variation speed of the decorative design is reduced, or a character image (person or the like) different from the decorative design is displayed in the display area of the image display device 5. Display images), changing the display mode of the background image, playing and displaying a moving image that is different from the decorative design, or changing the variation of the decorative design. There may be a case where an effect operation different from the state before reaching the reach state is executed. Such effect operations such as the display of the character image, the change of the display mode of the background image, the playback display of the moving image, and the change of the variation pattern of the decorative pattern are referred to as reach effect display (or simply “reach effect”). In the reach effect, not only the display operation in the image display device 5, but also the sound output operation by the speakers 8L and 8R, the lighting operation (flashing operation) in the game effect lamp 9 and the decoration LED, and the operation of the effect movable member Or the like may be included in an operation mode different from that before the decorative symbol variable display state becomes “reach”.

  As an effect operation in the reach effect, a plurality of types of effect patterns (also referred to as “reach patterns”) having different operation modes (reach modes) may be prepared in advance. Each reach mode has a different possibility of “big hit” (also referred to as “reliability” or “big hit reliability”). That is, it is possible to vary the possibility that the variable display result will be a “hit” depending on which of the multiple types of reach effects is executed.

  As an example, in this embodiment, reach modes such as normal reach, super reach A to super reach D are preset. And, when the reach form of super reach such as super reach A to super reach D appears, there is a possibility that the variable display result will be “big hit” compared to the case where the reach form of normal reach appears (big hit reliability) Becomes higher. Note that the case where the decorative display variable display state does not reach the reach state is also referred to as “non-reach”, and there is no possibility that the variable display result will be a “big hit” unless a special combination such as a predetermined chance eye is obtained. .

  During the variable display of the decorative design, unlike the reach effect, for example, a predetermined effect image is displayed, an image display or voice output as a message, a lighting operation of the game effect lamp 9 or the decoration LED, or an effect For example, there is a possibility that the variable display state of the decorative symbol becomes a reach state, or the variable display result becomes “big hit” due to a presentation operation different from the variable display operation of the decorative symbol such as a predetermined operation of the model. There is a case where a notice effect for notifying (indicating) the advantage of the game executed in the pachinko gaming machine 1 in advance to the player, such as the possibility of the possibility, is executed.

  The effect operation that becomes the notice effect is the variable display state of the decorative symbol after the decorative symbol variable display is started in all of the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R. May be executed (started) prior to the reach state (before the decorative symbols are temporarily displayed in the “left” and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L and 5R). Further, the notice effect for notifying that the variable display result may be a “hit” may include an effect that is executed after the variable symbol display state of the decorative symbol becomes the reach state. In this way, the notice effect can be a big hit gaming state at a predetermined timing from the start of variable display of special symbols and decorative symbols until the fixed special symbols and fixed decorative symbols that result in variable display are derived. Anything that can give notice of sex is acceptable. A plurality of notice patterns are prepared in advance corresponding to the contents of the effect operation (effect mode) when such a notice effect is executed. The effect operation that becomes the notice effect may be any effect that does not cause a change in the variable symbol display time depending on whether or not it is executed.

  In this embodiment, the three-dimensional display effect is set to be executable. In the three-dimensional display effect, an image from the viewpoint of a virtual camera that moves according to a predetermined trajectory in the virtual three-dimensional space in which the object is arranged, for example, a viewpoint trajectory set in step S502 described later is displayed on the image display device. 5 is displayed. An object arranged in the virtual three-dimensional space is composed of a large number of polygons, and the object represents, for example, a building, a condominium, a car, a tree, an animal, or the like.

  During the three-dimensional display effect, the arrangement positions of objects such as some or all of the objects arranged in the virtual three-dimensional space are updated. Update of the object placement position suggests, for example, that the variable display result is “big hit”, that the variable display state of the decorative symbol is a reach state, and that a predetermined notice effect is executed. This is a notice effect. In order to update the arrangement position of the object, for example, an object previously arranged in the virtual three-dimensional space is moved to another position, or a new object is set at a predetermined position in the virtual three-dimensional space. included. It should be noted that in the update of the arrangement position in which the object arranged in advance in the virtual three-dimensional space is moved to another position, the shape, pattern, color, etc. of the object may change before and after the update. The form of the object does not have to change before and after. Further, when updating the arrangement position of the object, for example, an effect may be executed in which the character moves the object or changes the form of the object.

  In this embodiment, for example, as shown in FIG. 14A, a transparent hit determination object JOB2 corresponding to the object OB2 is arranged at a position corresponding to the object OB2 arranged in the virtual three-dimensional space. ing. The hit determination object JOB2 is composed of a smaller number of polygons than the number of polygons constituting the object OB2. The hit determination object JOB2 is set to the same size as the outer shape of the object OB2 or the size including the outer shape of the object OB2. The arrangement position of the hit determination object is updated together with the update of the arrangement position of the object. For example, when an object previously arranged in the virtual three-dimensional space is moved to another position, the hit determination object arranged corresponding to the object also moves together with the object. When a new object is set at a predetermined position in the virtual three-dimensional space, a hit determination object corresponding to the object is set at a position where the new object is set. In addition, when the form of the object changes at the time of updating the arrangement position of the object, the shape and size of the hit determination object may be changed in accordance with the change of the form of the object.

  Further, during the three-dimensional display effect, it is determined whether or not the object is placed on the set viewpoint trajectory. In this embodiment, as an example, when a hit determination object corresponding to an object is arranged on the set viewpoint trajectory, it is determined that the object is arranged on the viewpoint trajectory. When it is determined that the object is placed on the viewpoint trajectory, a viewpoint changing process is executed. In this embodiment, as an example, viewpoint change processing for changing the viewpoint trajectory of the virtual camera (hereinafter referred to as “viewpoint trajectory change processing”) is executed. In the viewpoint trajectory change processing, for example, based on the fact that an object is placed on the viewpoint trajectory, a new trajectory in which the viewpoint of the virtual camera does not contact the object placed on the trajectory is calculated. The new viewpoint trajectory may be calculated based on the viewpoint position of the virtual camera, the angle of view of the virtual camera, the arrangement position of the object, and the like.

  When a definite symbol (determined special symbol), which is a variable symbol display result in the special symbol game using the first special symbol or the second special symbol, is derived and displayed, the image display device 5 displays the decorative symbol variable symbol display result. The determined symbol (definite decorative symbol) is derived and displayed. In this way, the time when the variable display of the special symbol or the decorative design is started and the time when it ends is almost the same (may be exactly the same), and the variable display period is almost the same (may be exactly the same). Is also referred to as “variable display synchronization”.

  When a predetermined jackpot symbol is derived and displayed as a variable symbol display result of the special symbol, the variable display result becomes “big jackpot” (specific display result), which is controlled to a jackpot gaming state as a specific gaming state advantageous to the player. The That is, whether or not the game state is controlled to the big hit gaming state corresponds to whether or not the variable display result is “big hit”, and is determined (predetermined) before the variable display result is derived and displayed. A combination of decorative symbols that reminds a big hit in the image display device 5 when the big special symbol display is stopped on the first special symbol display device 4A and when the big special symbol display is stopped on the second special symbol display device 4B (Big hit combination) is stopped.

  In the big hit gaming state, the solenoid 82 for the big winning opening door is driven, and the big winning opening provided at a predetermined position in the gaming area is in an open state (first state). Then, in a predetermined period (for example, 29 seconds) or a period until a predetermined number (for example, 9) of game balls enter the big prize opening and a winning ball is generated, the big winning opening is opened in an advantageous state for the player. A round in the (first state) is executed. During periods other than the execution period of such rounds, the special winning opening is set in a closed state (second state) that is disadvantageous to the player.

  When a game ball enters the big prize opening, the winning ball is detected by the count switch 23, and a predetermined number (for example, 15) of game balls are paid out as a prize ball for each detection. The round in the big hit gaming state is repeatedly executed until a predetermined upper limit number (for example, “15”) is reached. Therefore, in the big hit gaming state, the player can acquire a large number of prize balls very easily, and the gaming state is advantageous to the player. Note that the pachinko gaming machine 1 may be one that directly pays out game balls that are prize balls, or may be one that gives a score corresponding to the number of game balls that are prize balls.

  After the big hit gaming state is ended, the probability that the variable display result is “big hit” (big hit probability) may be controlled to a probability change state where the probability is higher than the normal state. The probability change state is controlled so as to continue until a predetermined probability change end condition such as a predetermined number of variable displays is executed or the next big hit gaming state is started.

  In addition, after the big hit gaming state is ended, the average variable display time may be controlled to a short state when it becomes shorter than the normal state. The short-time state is controlled to continue until one of the short-time end conditions is established first, among the fact that a predetermined number of variable displays have been executed and the next big hit gaming state has been started. .

  In the certain change state and the short time state, the advantageous opening control that makes it easier for the game ball to pass through the start winning opening than in the normal state may be performed. By controlling to such a probable change state and a short time state, the time required until the next variable display result becomes a “big hit” is shortened, and a special game state that is more advantageous to the player than the normal state is obtained.

  The game ball used as a game medium in such a pachinko gaming machine 1 and the recorded information of the score given corresponding to the number thereof have a valuable value that can be exchanged for a special prize or a general prize according to the quantity, for example. Anything is acceptable. Alternatively, these game balls and score recording information may not be exchanged for special prizes or general prizes, but may have valuable value that can be used for a second game in the pachinko gaming machine 1.

  The game value that can be given in the pachinko gaming machine 1 is not limited to paying out a game ball as a winning ball or giving a score. In other words, the maximum number of rounds that can be executed in the big hit gaming state is the first round number (for example, “15”) larger than the second round number (for example, “2”), and the variable that can be executed in the short time state. The upper limit number of times of display is a first number (for example, “100”) larger than the second number of times (for example, “50”), and the big hit probability in the probability variation state is higher than the second probability (for example, 1/50). The first that the probability of being a probability (for example, 1/20), the number of consecutive chunks, which is the number of times of repeated control to the big hit gaming state without being controlled to the normal state, is greater than the second consecutive number of chunks (for example, “5”) Ream Number of emissions (for example, "10") and such part or all of becoming, it may include be a more favorable game situation for the player.

  Next, the operation (action) of the pachinko gaming machine 1 in this embodiment will be described.

  In the main board 11, when power supply from a predetermined power supply board is started, the game control microcomputer 100 is activated, and the CPU 103 executes a predetermined process as a game control main process. When the game control main process is started, the CPU 103 performs the necessary initial setting after setting the interrupt prohibition. In this initial setting, for example, the RAM 102 is cleared. Also, register setting of a CTC (counter / timer circuit) built in the game control microcomputer 100 is performed. Thereby, thereafter, an interrupt request signal is sent from the CTC to the CPU 103 every predetermined time (for example, 2 milliseconds), and the CPU 103 can periodically execute timer interrupt processing. When the initial setting is completed, an interrupt is permitted and then loop processing is started. In the game control main process, a process for returning the internal state of the pachinko gaming machine 1 to the state at the time of the previous power supply stop may be executed before entering the loop process.

  When the CPU 103 that has executed such a game control main process receives an interrupt request signal from the CTC and receives an interrupt request, it executes a predetermined game control timer interrupt process. When the game control timer interrupt process is started, the CPU 103 first executes a predetermined switch process, thereby causing the gate switch 21, the first start port switch 22A, the second start port switch 22B, and the count through the switch circuit 110. The state of the detection signal input from various switches such as the switch 23 is determined. Subsequently, by executing predetermined main-side error processing, abnormality diagnosis of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is performed, and a warning can be generated if necessary according to the diagnosis result. Thereafter, by executing a predetermined information output process, for example, data such as jackpot information, start information, probability variation information supplied to a hall management computer installed outside the pachinko gaming machine 1 is output.

  Subsequent to the information output process, a game random number update process for updating at least a part of the game random numbers used on the main board 11 side by software is executed. Thereafter, the CPU 103 executes game control process processing. In the game control process, the value of the game process flag provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 102 is updated according to the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1, and the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B. Various processes are selected and executed in order to perform control of the display operation in, and setting the opening / closing operation of the special winning opening in the special variable winning ball apparatus 7 in a predetermined procedure.

  Thereafter, the CPU 103 transmits a control command from the main board 11 to the sub-side control board such as the effect control board 12 by executing a command control process. As an example, in the command control process, the effect control board 12 out of the output ports included in the I / O 105 corresponds to the setting in the command transmission table specified by the value of the transmission command buffer provided in the predetermined area of the RAM 102. After the control data is set in the output port for transmitting the production control command to the output, the predetermined control data is set in the output port of the production control INT signal and the production control INT signal is turned on for a predetermined time and then turned off. By setting the status, etc., it is possible to transmit the effect control command based on the setting in the command transmission table. After executing the command control process, after setting the interrupt enabled state, the game control timer interrupt process is terminated.

  FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the game control process. In the game control process shown in FIG. 4, the CPU 103 of the game control microcomputer 100 first determines whether or not a start winning has occurred (step S11). As an example, in step S11, an input state (on / off) of a start winning signal as a detection signal transmitted from the first start port switch 22A or the second start port switch 22B is checked. What is necessary is just to determine with winning.

  If a start winning is generated in step S11 (step S11; Yes), a winning random number is stored (step S12). As an example, in the process of step S12, a random number circuit 104 built in (or externally attached to) the game control microcomputer 100, a random counter provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 102 in the game control microcomputer 100, or a game control microcomputer A gaming random number (random number for determining a variable display result, gaming state determining random number, etc.) updated by at least a part of a random counter configured using an internal register provided separately from the RAM 102 in the computer 100 A part or all of the numerical data indicating the random number and the random number for determining the variation pattern) is extracted. The random number value extracted at this time may be stored in association with the hold number, for example, in a hold random value storage unit provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 102 in the game control microcomputer 100.

  Subsequent to the processing in step S12, various control commands corresponding to the start winning prize are transmitted (step S13). As an example, in the process of step S <b> 13, it is only necessary to make a setting for transmitting a start winning designation command for notifying the occurrence of a start winning to the effect control board 12. Further, based on the random display result determination random number value and the variation pattern determination random number value extracted by the process of step S12, the variation pattern has a specific variation with a specific reach effect such as super reach A to super reach D. You may make it determine whether it is determined to a pattern. In this case, a setting for transmitting a winning determination result specifying command capable of specifying a determination result as to whether or not a specific variation pattern is determined may be performed.

  In the process of determining whether or not a specific variation pattern is determined, first, it is determined whether or not the variable display result is determined as “big hit” using a random value for determining the variable display result. For example, in a predetermined area of the ROM 101 in the game control microcomputer 100, a variable display result determination table in which a determination value is set for the determination result of whether or not the variable display result is “big hit” is stored in advance. Whether or not the variable display result is determined to be “big hit” by specifying the determination result to which the determination value matching the random value for determining the variable display result extracted by the process of step S12 is assigned. Can be determined. Subsequently, a variation pattern determination table in which different determination values are set for a plurality of types of variation patterns is selected according to the determination result of whether or not the variable display result is determined to be “big hit”. This variation pattern determination table may be stored in advance in a predetermined area of the ROM 101 in the game control microcomputer 100.

  By referring to the variation pattern determination table thus selected, a variation pattern to which a determination value that matches the random number value for variation pattern extraction extracted in step S12 is assigned is specified. Thereby, it can be determined whether it is determined to be a specific variation pattern for performing a specific reach effect such as super reach A to super reach D. As described above, when the game ball passes through the start winning opening (the first starting winning opening or the second starting winning opening) and the start winning is generated, the execution of the variable display game corresponding to the starting winning is started. Before, it is determined whether or not the variation pattern is determined to be a specific variation pattern, and a winning determination result designation command capable of specifying the determination result is transmitted from the main board 11 to the effect control board 12. Just do it.

  When no start winning has occurred in step S11 (step S11; No), after executing the process of step S13, the value of the game process flag is determined (step S21). Then, a process corresponding to the determination value is selected from a plurality of processes previously described in the game control computer program and executed.

  For example, when the value of the game process flag is “0”, it is determined whether or not variable symbol display (variable display game) can be started (step S101). As an example, in the process of step S101, it is determined whether or not the number of holds of the variable display game is “0” by checking the stored contents of the random number storage unit for holding. At this time, if the number of hold is other than “0”, the variable display is started because the start of the variable display has been satisfied and the variable display has not been started yet. Determine that it is possible. On the other hand, when the hold number is “0”, it is determined that variable display cannot be started.

  When variable display cannot be started in step S101 (step S101; No), the game control process is terminated. On the other hand, when variable display can be started (step S101; Yes), a fixed symbol derived and displayed as a variable display result is determined (step S102). At this time, the random number for game (random number for variable display result determination, random number for game state determination, random pattern determination for variation pattern) stored at the head (storage area with the minimum hold number) in the random number storage unit for hold Read random number value). The game random number read from the holding random value storage unit may be temporarily stored in a variable display random number buffer or the like provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 102 in the game control microcomputer 100. Then, using a random value for determining the variable display result and the variable display result determination table, it is determined at a predetermined ratio whether or not the variable display result is “big hit”. Here, when the gaming state in the pachinko gaming machine 1 is a probable variation state, the variable display result determination table is determined so that the variable display result is determined to be “big hit” at a higher rate than in the normal state or the short time state. It is sufficient that the determination value is set.

  When the variable display result is determined to be “big hit” in the process of step S102, the gaming state after the end of the big hit gaming state is further changed using the random number value for gaming state determination and the gaming state determination table. Decide whether or not to enter the special gaming state. Corresponding to these determination results, a fixed symbol derived and displayed as a variable display result may be determined.

  Following the processing in step S102, an internal flag and the like are set (step S103). As an example, in the process of step S103, when the variable display result is determined as “big hit” in the process of step S102, the big hit flag provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 102 in the game control microcomputer 100 is turned on. set. Further, when it is determined that the gaming state after the end of the big hit gaming state is to be a probability variation state, a probability variation confirmation flag provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 102 in the game control microcomputer 100 is set to an on state. In addition, it may be stored in such a way that it can be specified that the state is likely to change. Thereafter, the value of the game process flag is updated to “1” (step S104), and the game control process process is terminated.

  When the value of the game process flag is “1”, a variation pattern or the like is determined (step S111). FIG. 5 shows a setting example of a variation pattern used in the pachinko gaming machine 1. Each variation pattern indicates that the required time (variable display time) from the start of variable display to the display of a fixed symbol that is a variable display result can be specified and the outline of the production mode can be specified. In this embodiment, among the cases where the variable display result is “losing”, the variable display mode of the decorative symbols variably displayed on the image display device 5 is “non-reach” and “reach”. A plurality of variation patterns are prepared in advance corresponding to each case and when the variable display result is “big hit”. For the variation pattern, a plurality of patterns are prepared in advance for each variation time (variable display time) in the variable display of the special figure game or the decorative design. Therefore, by determining the variation pattern, it is possible to determine the variable display time for special symbols and decorative symbols.

  In the process of step S111, the variation pattern to be used is determined at a predetermined ratio using the variation pattern determination random value temporarily stored in the variable display random number buffer and the variation pattern determination table. At this time, the variable display result may become “big hit” corresponding to each fluctuation pattern by changing the determination ratio of each fluctuation pattern depending on whether or not the variable display result is decided as “big hit” (Big hit reliability) can be varied.

  Further, in the process of step S111, it may be determined whether or not the variable display state of the decorative symbol is set to “reach” by determining a variation pattern when the variable display result is determined to be “losing”. . Alternatively, prior to determining the variation pattern, it may be determined whether or not the variable display state of the decorative symbol is set to “reach” by using the reach determination random number value and the reach determination table. That is, in the process of step S111, it is only necessary to determine the variation pattern as one of a plurality of types based on the variable display result and the determination result of reach.

  Subsequent to the process of step S111, various control commands corresponding to the start of variable display are transmitted (step S112). As an example, in the process of step S112, as a variable display start command for designating the start of variable display, a variable display result notification command for notifying a variable display result, a variable display such as a variable display time of a decorative symbol and a type of reach effect, etc. A setting for transmitting a variation pattern designation command for notifying a variation pattern indicating a mode may be performed. Further, in response to the decrease in the hold count due to the start of variable display, a setting for transmitting a hold count notification command for notifying the hold count after the decrease may be performed.

  The variable display time is set in response to the change pattern being determined by the process of step S112. Moreover, the setting for starting the variable display of the special symbol by either the first special symbol display device 4A or the second special symbol display device 4B may be performed. As an example, variable display of symbols may be started by transmitting a predetermined drive signal to either the first special symbol display device 4A or the second special symbol display device 4B. Which special symbol display device using the special symbol on which special symbol display device is executed is a special symbol game based on whether the game ball has passed through the first start winning port or the second starting winning port It may be set accordingly. More specifically, a special game is played by the first special symbol display device 4A based on the fact that the game ball has passed through the first start winning opening. On the other hand, based on the fact that the game ball has passed through the second start winning opening, a special game by the second special symbol display device 4B is performed. Thereafter, the value of the game process flag is updated to “2” (step S113), and the game control process process is terminated.

  When the value of the game process flag is “2”, it is determined whether or not the variable display time has elapsed (step S121). And when variable display time has not passed (step S121; No), after performing variable display control of a special symbol (step S122), game control process processing is ended. On the other hand, when the variable display time has elapsed (step S121; Yes), the variable symbol special display is stopped, and the final symbol is controlled to be derived and displayed (step S123).

  Subsequent to the processing in step S123, various control commands corresponding to the end of variable display are transmitted (step S124). As an example, in the process of step S124, a variable display end command for instructing the end (stop) of variable display or a big hit start specifying command (fanfare command for specifying the start of a big hit gaming state when the variable display result is “big hit”. ) And the like may be set for transmission.

  After the process of step S124 is executed, it is determined whether or not the variable display result is “big hit” (step S125). If the variable display result is “big hit” (step S125; Yes), the value of the game process flag is updated to “3” (step S126), and the game control process is terminated. On the other hand, when the variable display result is not “big hit” but “losing” (step S125; No), the game process flag is cleared and the value is initialized to “0” (step S125). S127), the game control process is terminated. When the process of step S127 is executed, it is determined whether or not the probability variation state or the time saving state is to be ended, and when it is determined that the predetermined condition is to be ended, these gaming states are ended. Settings for controlling to a normal state may be performed.

  When the value of the game process flag is “3”, it is determined whether or not to end the big hit gaming state depending on whether or not a predetermined big hit end condition is satisfied (step S131). The jackpot end condition may be, for example, that all rounds executed in the jackpot gaming state have ended. When the big hit game state is not ended (step S131; No), the game operation control at the time of the big hit is performed (step 132), and the game control process is ended. On the other hand, when ending the big hit gaming state (step S131; Yes), the setting for controlling the gaming state after the big hit ending is performed (step S133).

  As an example, in the process of step S133, it is determined whether or not the probability variation confirmation flag is on. If it is on, the probability variation flag provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 102 in the game control microcomputer 100 is turned on. Set to. Thus, when it is determined that the variable display result is “big hit”, and it is decided that the gaming state after the end of the big hit gaming state is to be a probable change state, a game corresponding to this decision result is made. It is possible to control the state to a certain change state. Even in the case of controlling to the short time state, a setting corresponding to this may be performed. Thereafter, the game process flag is cleared and its value is initialized to “0” (step S134), and the game control process is terminated.

  Next, the operation in the effect control board 12 will be described. The effect control board 12 is supplied with a power supply voltage from a power supply board or the like. In the effect control CPU 120 in which the power supply for activation is started, a predetermined effect control main process is executed. When the production control main process is started, the production control CPU 120 first executes a predetermined startup process.

  In this embodiment, the effect control CPU 120 sets an object in the three-dimensional virtual space as an initial arrangement position as a startup process. In the process of setting the initial arrangement position, the effect control CPU 120 extracts a value indicating the arrangement position of an object prepared by, for example, storing it in a predetermined area of the ROM 121 in advance, and the extracted value is, for example, the RAM 122. Is stored in a predetermined area or the like and set as the initial arrangement position of the object used in the three-dimensional display effect. In the initial state, the object is not placed on the viewpoint trajectory.

  Thereafter, it is determined whether or not the timer interrupt flag is on. The timer interrupt flag is set to the ON state every time a predetermined time (for example, 2 milliseconds) elapses based on, for example, the CTC register setting. Such an interrupt for turning on the timer interrupt flag is a timer interrupt for effect control. The effect control CPU 120 waits until an effect control timer interrupt occurs.

  When a timer interrupt for effect control occurs and the timer interrupt flag is turned on, the timer interrupt flag is cleared and turned off, and a timer interrupt process for effect control is executed. In addition to the timer control process for effect control, the CPU 120 for effect control can execute an interrupt process for receiving a command, and can receive an effect control command transmitted from the main board 11 via the relay board 15. It only needs to be received. In the timer control process for effect control, the effect control CPU 120 executes command analysis processing. In the command analysis processing, it is determined whether or not an effect control command has been received. If there is a reception, setting or control corresponding to the received command is performed. After executing the command analysis process, the effect control process is executed. In the effect control process, for example, an effect image display operation in the display area of the image display device 5, an audio output operation from the speakers 8L and 8R, a lighting operation in a decorative light emitter (light emitting member) such as a game effect lamp 9 and a decorative LED. The operation control contents using various effect devices, such as the drive operation of the effect movable member, are determined, determined, and set according to the effect control command transmitted from the main board 11. Following the effect control process, an effect random number update process is executed, and numerical data indicating effect random numbers counted as various random values used for effect control is updated by software.

  FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the effect control process. In the effect control process shown in FIG. 6, the effect control CPU 120 determines the value of the effect process flag stored in a predetermined area or the like of the RAM 122, and from a plurality of processes described in advance in the effect control computer program, A process corresponding to the judgment value is selected and executed. The processing executed according to the determination value of the effect process flag includes the processing of steps S170 to S176.

  The variable display start waiting process in step S170 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “0”. The variable display start waiting process performs variable display of decorative symbols on the screen of the image display device 5 based on whether the first variation start command or the second variation start command transmitted from the main board 11 is received. It includes a process for determining whether or not to start. The first variation start command is an effect control command for notifying that the special figure game using the first special figure by the first special symbol display device 4A is started. The second variation start command is an effect control command for notifying that the special figure game using the second special figure by the second special symbol display device 4B is started. When either the first change start command or the second change start command is received, the value of the effect process flag is updated to “1”.

  The variable display start setting process in step S171 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “1”. This variable display start setting process is performed on the screen of the image display device 5 in response to the start of variable display of special symbols in the special symbol game by the first special symbol display device 4A or the second special symbol display device 4B. In order to perform the variable display of decorative symbols and other various effects, the process of determining the fixed decorative symbols and various effect control patterns according to the variation pattern of the special symbols and the type of display result is included. . When the variable display start setting process is executed, the value of the effect process flag is updated to “2”.

  The variable display effect process in step S172 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “2”. In the effect processing during variable display, the effect control CPU 120 performs various control data from the effect control pattern corresponding to the timer value in the effect control process timer provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 122 (such as an effect control timer setting unit). , And various kinds of effect control during the variable display of the decorative symbols are included. In addition, in the variable display effect processing, the finalized symbol as the final stop symbol that is the variable symbol display result corresponding to the reception of the symbol determination command transmitted from the main board 11 is displayed as a complete stop. Processing to display (derived display) is included. Note that, in response to the end code being read from the predetermined effect control pattern, the finalized decorative symbol may be displayed in a complete stop (derived display). In this case, when the variable display time corresponding to the variation pattern designated by the variation pattern designation command has elapsed, it is autonomous on the side of the production control board 12 without using the production control command from the main board 11. The fixed display pattern can be derived and displayed on the screen to determine the variable display result. After performing such effect control, the value of the effect process flag is updated to “3”.

  The variable display stop process in step S173 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “3”. In the variable display stop process, the jackpot gaming state starts based on the variable display result notified by the variable display result notification command, the determination result of whether or not the jackpot start designation command transmitted from the main board 11 is received, and the like. The process which determines whether it is performed is included. When the variable display result corresponds to “big hit” and the big hit gaming state is started, the value of the production process flag is updated to “4”, while the variable display result corresponds to “lost”. If the big hit gaming state is not started, the effect process flag is cleared and its value is initialized to “0”.

  The jackpot display process of step S174 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “4”. This jackpot display process includes a process for executing a jackpot notification effect (fanfare effect) for notifying the start of the jackpot gaming state based on the reception of the jackpot start designation command transmitted from the main board 11 or the like. Yes. Then, when the execution of the big hit notification effect ends, the value of the effect process flag is updated to “5”.

  In this embodiment, in the jackpot display process in step S174, the effect control CPU 120 executes a process of setting the object and viewpoint trajectory arranged in the three-dimensional virtual space to an initial state. In this process, the arrangement position of the object is updated to the same state as when the power is turned on.

  The big hit effect process in step S175 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “5”. In the jackpot effect processing, the effect control CPU 120 sets, for example, an effect control pattern corresponding to the effect contents in the jackpot effect that is executed when the game is in the jackpot game state, and displays an effect image based on the set contents. Displaying on the screen of the display device 5, outputting sound and sound effects from the speakers 8 </ b> L and 8 </ b> R by outputting commands (sound effect signals) to the sound control board 13, and commands (lighting signals) to the lamp control board 14 ) To turn on / off / blink the game effect lamp 9 and the decoration LED, and execute other effect control, thereby making it possible to execute a big hit effect corresponding to the big hit game state. In the jackpot effect processing, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to “6” in response to, for example, receiving a jackpot end designation command transmitted from the main board 11.

  The big hit end effect process in step S176 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “6”. In this jackpot end effect process, the effect control CPU 120 sets, for example, an effect control pattern corresponding to the effect content in the jackpot end effect (ending effect) executed when the jackpot game state ends, and the setting contents The effect image based on the image display device 5 is displayed on the screen, the sound (sound effect signal) is output to the sound control board 13, the sound and sound effects are output from the speakers 8 </ b> L and 8 </ b> R, and the lamp control board 14 is output. The game effect lamp 9 and the decoration LED are turned on / off / flashed by the output of the command (electric decoration signal), and other effect control can be executed to execute the jackpot end effect corresponding to the end of the jackpot game state To do. Thereafter, the effect process flag is cleared and its value is initialized to “0”.

  FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the variable display start setting process executed in step S171 of FIG. In the variable display start setting process shown in FIG. 7, the effect control CPU 120 first determines a final stop symbol or the like to be a finalized symbol as a variable symbol display result (step S401). As the processing of step S401, the CPU 120 for effect control is based on variable display contents such as the variation pattern indicated by the variation pattern designation command transmitted from the main board 11 and the variable display result indicated by the variable display result notification command. To determine the final stop symbol. As an example, the variable display contents according to the combination of the fluctuation pattern and variable display result include “non-reach (loss)”, “reach (loss)”, “non-probability change (big hit)”, and “probability change (big hit)”. is there.

  When the variable display content is “non-reach (losing)”, the variable display state of the decorative symbol is not changed to the reach state, the fixed decorative symbol of the non-reach combination is stopped and displayed, and the variable display result is “lost”. " When the variable display content is “reach (losing)”, after the variable display state of the decorative symbol becomes the reach state, the fixed decorative symbol of the reach lose combination is stopped and displayed, and the variable display result becomes “losing”. . When the variable display content is “non-probable change (big hit)”, the variable display result is “big hit”, and the gaming state after the end of the big hit gaming state is the short-time state. When the variable display content is “probable change (big hit)”, the variable display result is “big win”, and the gaming state after the big hit gaming state is changed to the probable state.

  When the variable display content is “non-reach (losing)”, the production control CPU 120 uses the “left” and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5R to display different (unmatched) decorative symbols as the final stop symbols. To decide. The effect control CPU 120 extracts numerical data indicating a random number value for determining the left determined symbol updated by an effect random counter or the like provided in a predetermined area (such as an effect control counter setting unit) of the random number circuit 124 or the RAM 122. Referring to the left determined symbol determination table stored and prepared in advance in the ROM 121, the left that is stopped and displayed in the “left” decorative symbol display area 5L in the display area of the image display device 5 among the determined decorative symbols. Determine the final decorative pattern. Next, numerical value data indicating a random number value for determining the right determined symbol updated by the random number circuit 124 or the effect random counter is extracted, and the right determined symbol determining table prepared in advance stored in the ROM 121 is referred to. For example, the right determined decorative symbol to be stopped and displayed in the “right” decorative symbol display area 5R in the display area of the image display device 5 is determined. At this time, the symbol number of the right determined decorative symbol may be determined so as to be different from the symbol number of the left determined decorative symbol by setting in the right determined symbol determining table or the like. Subsequently, the numerical data indicating the random number value for determining the medium fixed symbol updated by the random number circuit 124 or the production random counter or the like is extracted, and the medium fixed symbol determination table stored and prepared in advance in the ROM 121 is referred to. From the determined decorative symbols, the medium fixed decorative symbol that is stopped and displayed in the “medium” decorative symbol display area 5C in the display area of the image display device 5 is determined.

  When the variable display content is “reach”, the effect control CPU 120 displays the same (matching) decorative symbols in the “left” and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L and 5R as the final stop symbols. To decide. The effect control CPU 120 extracts numerical data indicating random values for determining the left and right determined symbols that are updated by the random number circuit 124 or the effect random counter, and stores the left and right determined symbol determination table that is stored in advance in the ROM 121 and prepared. By referring to the decorative symbols, the decorative symbols having the same symbol number that are stopped and displayed in the “left” and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L and 5R in the display area of the image display device 5 are displayed. decide. Further, numerical data indicating a random number value for determining the medium fixed symbol updated by the random number circuit 124 or the production random counter is extracted, and a medium fixed symbol determination table stored in advance and prepared in the ROM 121 is referred to. As a result, among the determined decorative symbols, the medium fixed decorative symbol that is stopped and displayed in the “medium” decorative symbol display area 5C in the display area of the image display device 5 is determined. Here, for example, when the confirmed decorative symbol is a jackpot combination, such as when the symbol number of the middle confirmed decorative symbol is the same as the symbol number of the left confirmed decorative symbol and the right confirmed decorative symbol, an arbitrary value (For example, “1”) may be added to or subtracted from the symbol number of the medium-decorated decorative symbol so that the finalized decorative symbol is not the jackpot combination but the reach combination. Alternatively, when determining the medium-decorated decorative symbol, a difference (design difference) between the symbol number of the left confirmed decorative symbol and the right confirmed decorative symbol may be determined, and the medium-decorated decorative symbol corresponding to the symbol difference may be set. .

  When the variable display content is “non-probability change (big hit)” or “probability change (big hit)”, the effect control CPU 120 displays the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R. The same (matching) decorative symbol is determined as the final stop symbol. The effect control CPU 120 extracts numerical data indicating a random value for determining the jackpot determined symbol updated by the random number circuit 124 or the effect random counter. Subsequently, by referring to the jackpot determined symbol determination table stored and prepared in advance in the ROM 121, the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L in the display area of the image display device 5 are provided. A decorative symbol having the same symbol number that is stopped and displayed along with 5C and 5R is determined. At this time, depending on whether the variable display content is “non-probability change (big hit)” or “probability change (big hit)”, whether or not the promotion effect during the big hit is executed, etc. It is only necessary to determine which one of the design symbol to be displayed and the probability variation symbol (for example, a design symbol that represents an odd number) is the final design symbol. In the jackpot promotion promotion, the combination of decorative symbols (non-probable variation jackpot combination) that recalls a big hit in the image display device 5 but does not recall a probable change state (non-probable big hit combination) is once stopped and displayed in the big hit gaming state or the big hit gaming state. This is an effect of notifying whether or not the state is surely changed at the end of.

  As a specific example, when the variable display content is “non-probable change (big hit)”, a symbol to be a definite decorative symbol is determined from a plurality of types of normal symbols. Further, when the variable display content is “probability change (big hit)” and it is determined not to execute the jackpot promotion effect, the one that becomes the confirmed decorative design is determined from a plurality of types of probability change designs. On the other hand, when the variable display content is “probable change (big hit)”, when it is decided to execute the promotion effect during the big hit, the one that becomes the confirmed decorative symbol is determined from a plurality of types of normal symbols. Accordingly, it is only necessary to prevent the promotion effect during the big hit from being executed despite the fact that the probability variation symbols are all derived and displayed as the confirmed decorative symbols, so that the player is not distrusted.

  In the process of step S401, when the variable display content is “non-probability change (big hit)” or “probability change (big hit)”, it is determined whether or not to execute the probability change promotion effect such as the re-lottery effect or the jackpot promotion effect. May be. In the redrawing effect, once the decorative symbol of the non-probable variable big hit combination consisting of the same normal symbol is displayed during variable display of the decorative symbol, it is once difficult to recognize or impossible to recognize that it is controlled to the probabilistic state, It is possible to notify that the control is changed to the probability variation state by variably displaying (revariing) the decoration symbol again and stopping and displaying the decorative symbol of the probability variation big hit combination comprising the same probability variation symbol. Note that there is a case in which the control of the probability variation state is not notified when the decoration symbol of the non-probable variation big hit combination is stopped and displayed after the decoration symbol is re-variable in the re-lottery effect. If it is determined in step S401 that the re-lottery effect is to be executed, a combination of decorative symbols to be temporarily stopped and displayed may be determined before the re-lottery effect is executed.

  Following the determination of the final stop symbol and the like in step S401, a notice effect is determined (step S402). In the process of step S402, for example, the presence / absence of the notice effect, the effect mode in the case of executing the notice effect, and the three-dimensional display effect using the notice effect determination table prepared in advance in a predetermined area of the ROM 121, for example. The presence or absence may be determined. In the notice effect determination table, for example, a numerical value (determined value) to be compared with a random number for determining the notice effect may be assigned to the presence / absence of the notice effect or the determination result of the effect mode according to the variable display content. . The effect control CPU 120 refers to the notice effect determination table based on the numerical data indicating the random value for determining the notice effect, which is updated by the random number circuit 124 or the effect random counter. What is necessary is just to determine the presence or absence of an aspect and a three-dimensional display effect.

  Subsequent to step S402, the effect control CPU 120 determines whether or not a three-dimensional display effect is executed (step S402A). When it is determined in step S402A that the three-dimensional display effect is being executed (step S402A; Yes), the effect control CPU 120 determines to update the arrangement position of the object (step S402B).

  In the process of step S402B, for example, by using an arrangement position update determination table prepared in advance by storing in a predetermined area of the ROM 121, the presence / absence of the arrangement position is updated, and the object updated after the arrangement position is updated is updated. What is necessary is just to determine a position. In the arrangement position update determination table, for example, depending on whether or not the variable display result is “big hit”, whether or not the variable display mode of the decorative symbol is reach, whether or not a predetermined notice effect is executed, etc. Thus, a numerical value (decision value) to be compared with the random number value for determining the arrangement position update may be assigned to the presence / absence of the arrangement position update and the determination result of the updated object position. The effect control CPU 120 updates the arrangement position by referring to the arrangement position update determination table based on the numerical data indicating the arrangement position update determination random number value updated by the random number circuit 124 or the effect random counter. It is only necessary to determine the presence or absence and the position of the updated object.

  After executing the process of step S402B or when it is determined in step S402A that the 3D display effect is not executed (step S402A; No), the effect control CPU 120 has a plurality of effect control patterns prepared in advance. Either one is determined (step S403). For example, the effect control CPU 120 selects one of a plurality of special-figure variation effect control patterns prepared in correspondence with the variation pattern indicated by the variation pattern designation command and sets it as a usage pattern. In addition, the CPU 120 for effect control selects any one of a plurality of prepared notice effect control patterns corresponding to the result of determination of the notice effect by the process of step S402, and sets it as a use pattern.

  FIG. 8A shows a configuration example of the effect control pattern. In the configuration example shown in FIG. 8A, the effect control pattern is derived from process data including, for example, an effect control process timer determination value, display control data, sound control data, lamp control data, operation detection control data, an end code, and the like. It is configured. The effect control process timer determination value is a value (determination value) to be compared with an effect control process timer value that is a stored value of an effect control process timer provided in a predetermined area (such as an effect control timer setting unit) of the RAM 122. The determination value corresponding to the execution time (effect time) of each effect operation is set in advance. In place of the effect control process timer determination value, for example, a predetermined effect control command is received from the main board 11, or a predetermined process is executed as a process for controlling the effect operation in the effect control CPU 120. The data indicating the switching timing of the presentation control, etc. may be set corresponding to the predetermined control content and processing content.

  The display control data includes data indicating the display mode of the effect image in the display area of the image display device 5, such as data indicating the variation mode of each decorative pattern during variable display of the decorative pattern. That is, the display control data is data that designates the display operation of the effect image in the display area of the image display device 5. The voice control data includes data indicating the voice output mode from the speakers 8L and 8R, such as data indicating the output mode of sound effects in conjunction with the variable display operation of the decorative symbol during variable display of the decorative symbol, for example. Yes. That is, the audio control data is data that designates an audio output operation from the speakers 8L and 8R. The lamp control data includes data indicating the lighting operation mode of the light emitter, such as a game effect lamp 9 and a decoration LED. That is, the lamp control data is data for designating the lighting operation of the light emitter.

  The operation detection control data includes, for example, an operation valid period for effectively detecting an instruction operation (tilting operation) for the operation stick of the stick controller 31A and an instruction operation (push-pull operation) for the trigger button, or an instruction operation (for the push button 31B). Data indicating an effect operation mode according to the player's operation action, such as an operation effective period for effectively detecting (pressing operation) and data for specifying the control content of the effect operation when each operation is detected effectively. include.

  Note that these control data do not have to be included in all the effect control patterns, but an effect control pattern including a part of the control data according to the contents of the effect operation by each effect control pattern. There may be. Further, in the plural types of process data included in the effect control pattern, the types of control data constituting each process data may be different according to the contents of the effect operation executed at each timing. That is, there may be process data configured to include all of the display control data, sound control data, lamp control data, and operation detection control data, or process data configured to include a part of these. Furthermore, other various control data such as, for example, production model control data indicating an operation mode in the movable member included in the production model may be included.

  FIG. 8B shows various effect operations executed according to the contents of the effect control pattern. The production control CPU 120 determines the control content of the production operation according to various control data included in the production control pattern. For example, when the effect control process timer value matches one of the effect control process timer determination values, the decorative design is displayed in a manner specified by the display control data associated with the effect control process timer determination value, and the character Control is performed to display an effect image such as an image or a background image in the display area of the image display device 5. In addition, control is performed to output sound from the speakers 8L and 8R in a manner specified by the sound control data, and control is performed to flash a light emitter such as the game effect lamp 9 in a manner specified by the lamp control data. Control is performed to determine the content of the effect by accepting an operation on the trigger button, the operating rod or the push button 31B of the stick controller 31A in the operation valid period specified by the detection control data. Note that dummy data (data not specifying control) may be set as data corresponding to a production component that does not become a control target even though it corresponds to the production control process timer determination value.

  The effect control CPU 120 sets the effect control pattern based on the variation pattern indicated in the variation pattern designation command, for example, when variable display of decorative symbols is started. Here, when setting the effect control pattern, the pattern data constituting the corresponding effect control pattern may be read from the ROM 121 and temporarily stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 122, or the corresponding effect control pattern is configured. The storage address of the pattern data in the ROM 121 may be temporarily stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 122 and the reading position of the storage data in the ROM 121 may be designated. After that, every time the production control process timer value is updated, it is determined whether or not it matches any of the production control process timer determination values. Control. In this way, the effect control CPU 120 performs effect devices (image display device 5, speakers 8L and 8R, game effect lamps) according to the contents of process data # 1 to process data #n (n is an arbitrary integer) included in the effect control pattern. The control of the light emitter such as 9) is advanced. In each process data # 1 to process data #n, display control data # 1 to display control data #n and voice control data # 1 to voice control associated with production control process timer determination values # 1 to #n are provided. Data #n, lamp control data # 1 to lamp control data #n, and operation detection control data # 1 to operation detection control data #n indicate the control content of the rendering operation in the rendering device and specify the execution of the rendering control. Control execution data # 1 to production control execution data #n are configured.

  A command according to the effect control pattern set in this way is output from the effect control CPU 120 to the display control unit 123, the sound control board 13, and the like. In the display control unit 123 that has received a command from the effect control CPU 120, for example, the VDP 130 reads image data (image element data) indicated by the command from the image data memory 131 and temporarily stores it in the VRAM 132A. Further, the VDP 130 selects image data corresponding to the display area of the image display device 5 from the image data stored in the VRAM 132A, converts the selected image data into pixel data, and the like, so that a predetermined position of the frame buffer 132B is obtained. By arranging it at (a position indicated by information indicating a display position in the display area of the image display device 5), display data for one screen is created in the frame buffer 132B. When the voice control board 13 receives the command from the effect control CPU 120, for example, the voice synthesis IC reads the voice data indicated by the command from the voice data ROM and temporarily stores it in the voice RAM or the like.

  After performing the process of step S403 shown in FIG. 7, the CPU 120 for effect control is provided in a predetermined area (such as an effect control timer setting unit) of the RAM 122 corresponding to the change pattern specified by the change pattern specifying command, for example. The initial value of the production control process timer is set (step S404). And the setting for starting the fluctuation | variation of the decoration design etc. in the image display apparatus 5 is performed (step S405). At this time, for example, the display control command designated by the display control data included in the effect control pattern determined as the use pattern in step S404 is transmitted to the VDP 130 of the display control unit 123, and the like. The variation of the decorative symbols may be started in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R provided in the display area.

  Following the process of step S405, in response to the start of variable display of decorative symbols, settings are made to update the hold storage display in the start winning storage display area 5H (step S406). For example, the display part corresponding to the hold number “1” in the start winning memory display area 5H may be deleted and the entire display part may be moved to the left one by one. Thereafter, the value of the effect process flag is updated to “2”, which is a value corresponding to the effect process during variable display (step S407), and the variable display start setting process ends.

  FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of the variable display effect process executed in step S172 of FIG. In the effect processing during variable display shown in FIG. 9, the effect control CPU 120 first determines whether or not the variable display time corresponding to the variation pattern has elapsed based on, for example, an effect control process timer value (step S451). ). As an example, in the process of step S451, when the production control process timer value is updated (for example, 1 is subtracted) and an end code is read from the production control pattern corresponding to the updated production control process timer value, etc. It may be determined that the variable display time has elapsed.

  If the variable display time has not elapsed in step S451 (step S451; No), it is determined whether it is the execution period of various effects (step S452). The execution period of various effects may be determined in advance in the effect control pattern selected in the process of step S403 shown in FIG. When it is not the execution period of various effects (step S452; No), the variable display effect process is terminated. When it is the execution period of various effects (step S452; Yes), the effect control process is executed (step S453), and then the variable display effect process is terminated.

  If the variable display time has elapsed in step S451 (step S451; Yes), it is determined whether or not a symbol confirmation command transmitted from the main board 11 has been received (step S454). At this time, if there is no reception of the symbol confirmation command (step S454; No), the variable display effect processing is terminated and awaits. If the predetermined time has elapsed without receiving the symbol confirmation command after the variable display time has elapsed, predetermined error processing is executed in response to the failure to successfully receive the symbol confirmation command. You may make it do.

  When a symbol confirmation command is received in step S454 (step S454; Yes), for example, display is performed in a variable symbol display such as transmitting a predetermined display control command to the VDP 130 of the display control unit 123. A control for deriving and displaying the final stop symbol (definite decorative symbol) as a result is performed (step S455). In addition, a predetermined time is set as the waiting start designation command reception waiting time (step S456). Then, the value of the effect process flag is updated to “3” which is a value corresponding to the variable display stop process (step S457), and then the variable display effect process is ended.

  In the effect control process of step S453 shown in FIG. 9, the effect control process timer value is changed from the effect control pattern (for example, the special figure change effect control pattern, the notice effect control pattern, etc.) determined in the process of step S403 shown in FIG. Control for executing rendering operations by various rendering devices is performed using the process data read on the basis of the process data. For example, the effect control CPU 120 determines whether or not the effect control process timer has timed out, and switches the effect control execution data in the process data when time-out occurs. That is, in the process data # 1 to process data #n as shown in FIG. 8A, display control of the image display device 5 is performed based on the next set display control data. Further, in the process data # 1 to process data #n, audio output control of the speakers 8L and 8R is performed based on the audio control data set next. Further, in the process data # 1 to process data #n, lighting control of the game effect lamp 9 and the decoration LED is performed based on the next set lamp control data. In addition, in the process data # 1 to process data #n, detection control of instruction operation by the stick controller 31A or the push button 31B is performed based on the operation detection control data set next.

  The effect control CPU 120 transmits various display control commands to the VDP 130 of the display control unit 123 in order to perform display control of the image display device 5. The display control command transmitted from the effect control CPU 120 to the VDP 130 may include, for example, a transfer command, a deployment command, and an output command.

  The transfer command indicates that image data used for screen display on the image display device 5 is read from a plurality of types of image data (image element data) stored in the image data memory 131 and temporarily stored in the VRAM 132A. For example, the transfer command may include data for notifying the VDP 130 of the read position of the image data in the image data memory 131, the image size when the image data is expanded and stored, and the like. Here, the reading position of the image data in the image data memory 131 may be a reading address in the image data memory 131 or specific information (for example, an image element) attached to the image element corresponding to the image data to be read. It may be specified using arbitrary information such as the character number of the character image corresponding to the data.

  The expansion command selects image data corresponding to the display area of the image display device 5 from the image data temporarily stored in the VRAM 132A, and creates display data in the virtual display area of the frame buffer 132B based on the selected image data. Indicates to do. For example, the expansion command may include data for designating image data temporarily stored in the VRAM 132A and data for designating the arrangement (setting position) of image elements in the frame buffer 132B. Here, the data for designating the image data temporarily stored in the VRAM 132A may be data for designating a read address in the VRAM 132A or attached to an image element corresponding to the image data to be selected. Data indicating arbitrary information such as specific information may be used.

  The output command indicates that display data created in the virtual display area of the frame buffer 132B is supplied to the LCD drive circuit 133 and output to the image display device 5 side. Each time the VDP 130 receives an output command, the VDP 130 outputs display data for one screen read from the frame buffer 132B to the image display device 5 side, supplies a vertical synchronization signal, and has the same cycle as the vertical synchronization signal. May generate a V blank interrupt. In this case, the effect control CPU 120 may execute processing related to drawing in synchronization with the occurrence of the V blank interrupt from the VDP 130.

  The effect control CPU 120 may transmit various display control commands to the VDP 130 of the display control unit 123 in addition to the transfer command, the deployment command, and the output command. For example, a copy command indicating that the content of the frame buffer 132B that has output display data to the image display device 5 is copied to the VRAM 132A, or image data corresponding to the content of the frame buffer 132B and the effect image A drawing command or the like indicating that an operation (for example, an operation for adding, subtracting, or translucent processing) is performed is transmitted from the effect control CPU 120 to the VDP 130 of the display control unit 123. Also good.

  FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of image data processing executed by the VDP 130 of the display control unit 123. In the image data processing shown in FIG. 10, the VDP 130 determines whether or not the display control command transmitted from the effect control CPU 120 is a transfer command (step S701). If it is a transfer command (step S701; Yes), the image data read from the image data memory 131 is written into the VRAM 132A and temporarily stored (step S702).

  When it is not a transfer command in step S701 (step S701; No), after executing the process of step S702, it is determined whether or not the display control command transmitted from the effect control CPU 120 is a deployment command ( Step S703). If it is an expansion command (step S703; Yes), the image data in the designated storage area in the VRAM 132A is selected and written in the virtual display area of the frame buffer 132B (step S704). Thus, display data in the display area of the image display device 5 is created by writing the selected image data in the virtual display area of the frame buffer 132B. When selecting image data temporarily stored in the VRAM 132A, only a part of the image data (image element data) corresponding to one image element is extracted (clipped) and written to the frame buffer 132B. It may be.

  If it is not a deployment command in step S703 (step S703; No), or after executing the processing of step S704, it is determined whether or not the display control command transmitted from the effect control CPU 120 is an output command ( Step S705). At this time, if it is not an output command (step S705; No), the image data processing is terminated. On the other hand, if it is an output command (step S705; Yes), the display data is read from the frame buffer 132B, supplied to the LCD drive circuit 133, and output to the image display device 5 side (step S706).

  In this embodiment, in the effect control process of step S453, an image from the viewpoint of the virtual camera that moves in the virtual three-dimensional space in which the object is arranged according to the set viewpoint trajectory is displayed on the image display device 5. If the object is changed and the object is placed on the viewpoint trajectory during the three-dimensional display effect, the viewpoint trajectory changing process of the virtual camera is performed. If the object is arranged on the changed viewpoint trajectory, the viewpoint trajectory changing process is further performed.

  FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the process executed in step S453 of FIG. 9 as the effect control process by the effect control CPU 120. In the effect control process shown in FIG. 11, for example, it is determined whether or not to start the three-dimensional display effect based on the result of reading the effect control execution data read from the effect control pattern based on the effect control process timer value ( Step S501). When starting the three-dimensional display effect in step S501 (step S501; Yes), the effect control CPU 120 performs viewpoint trajectory setting (step S502).

  In the process of step S502, the effect control CPU 120 sets a different viewpoint trajectory depending on whether or not the arrangement position of the object arranged in the three-dimensional virtual space is the initial arrangement position. The arrangement position of the object arranged in the three-dimensional virtual space is changed by executing a process in step S507 described later. When the arrangement position of the object is the initial arrangement position, the effect control CPU 120 extracts the trajectory data prepared by, for example, storing in the predetermined area of the ROM 121 in advance, and the extracted trajectory data is stored in the RAM 122, for example. By storing it in a predetermined area or the like, it is set as the trajectory of the initial viewpoint used in the three-dimensional display effect. In addition, when the arrangement position of the object is not the initial arrangement position, the effect control CPU 120 uses the viewpoint trajectory changed by executing the process of step S510 described later to use the viewpoint trajectory used in the three-dimensional display effect. Set as.

  After executing the process of step S502, the CPU 120 for effect control displays an image from the viewpoint of the virtual camera that moves according to the path of the viewpoint set by the process of step S502 with respect to the VDP 130 of the display control unit 123. 5 is transmitted (step S503). As a result, an image from the viewpoint of the moving virtual camera is displayed on the image display device 5.

  If it is not the start of the three-dimensional display effect in step S501 (step S501; No), the effect control CPU 120 executes the effect control read from the effect control pattern based on the effect control process timer value, for example. Whether or not to end the three-dimensional display effect is determined based on the data read result or the like (step S505).

  After executing the processing of step S503 or when the three-dimensional display effect is not completed in step S505 (step S505; No), the effect control CPU 120 determines whether or not there is an update of the arrangement position of the object ( Step S506). In step S506, for example, if the effect control pattern determined in step S403 includes arrangement update data indicating the update of the object arrangement position, the effect control CPU 120 updates the object arrangement position. What is necessary is just to judge. When it is determined in step S506 that there is an update of the object arrangement position (step S506; Yes), the effect control CPU 120 performs an update setting for updating the object arrangement position to the position determined in step S402B. This is performed (step S507). In step S507, the effect control CPU 120 may rewrite, for example, the initial value indicating the arrangement position of the object stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 122 or the like in the start-up process to a value indicating the position determined in step S402B. . Thereby, the arrangement position of the object in the three-dimensional virtual space is changed.

  After executing the process of step S507, the CPU 120 for effect control displays an image from the viewpoint of the virtual camera based on the update setting of the arrangement position of the object in step S507 with respect to the VDP 130 of the display control unit 123. A display control command for display on the screen is transmitted (step S508). As a result, an image from the viewpoint of the virtual camera moving in the virtual three-dimensional space in a state where the object arrangement position is updated is displayed on the image display device 5.

  After executing the process of step S508, the CPU 120 for effect control determines whether or not an object is placed on the viewpoint trajectory set in step S502 (step S509). In step S509, as an example, the effect control CPU 120 compares the position of the polygon constituting the hit determination object with the position of the trajectory, and at least one of the polygons constituting the hit determination object is the viewpoint trajectory. If it is above, it is determined that the object is placed on the trajectory of the viewpoint.

  If it is determined in step S509 that the object has been placed on the viewpoint trajectory (step S509; Yes), the effect control CPU 120 performs viewpoint trajectory change processing (step S510). In step S510, the effect control CPU 120 virtually applies the object arranged on the trajectory based on the viewpoint trajectory set in step S502 and the object arrangement position set in step S507. A new trajectory where the camera viewpoint does not touch is calculated by calculation, and the trajectory data stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 122 is rewritten with the calculated result to change the viewpoint trajectory.

  After executing the process of step S510, the effect control CPU 120 displays an image from the viewpoint of the virtual camera based on the viewpoint trajectory changing process of step S510 on the image display device 5 with respect to the VDP 130 of the display control unit 123. A display control command is transmitted for the purpose (step S511). As a result, an image from the viewpoint of the virtual camera that moves according to the activation of the changed viewpoint is displayed on the image display device 5.

  When the three-dimensional display effect is ended in step S505 (step S505; Yes), the effect control CPU 120 transmits various display control commands to the VDP 130 of the display control unit 123, and the like. Control for ending the display effect is performed (step S513).

  After executing one of the processes of steps S511 and S513, or when it is determined in step S506 that the object arrangement position has not been updated (step S506; No), the object is on the viewpoint trajectory in step S509. When it is determined that they are not arranged (step S509; No), the effect control CPU 120, for example, in accordance with the effect control execution data read from the effect control pattern based on the effect control process timer value, After performing other effect operation control including the variable display operation (step S514), the execution of the effect control process is terminated.

  FIGS. 12A to 12D show an example of the operation when the viewpoint trajectory changing process is executed. 12A to 12D are views of the virtual three-dimensional space as viewed from above.

  As shown in FIG. 12A, as an example, objects OB1, OB2, and OB3 and hit determination objects JOB1, JOB2, and JOB3 corresponding to these objects have predetermined intervals in the virtual three-dimensional space. It is arranged with a gap. Further, the trajectory KD1 of the viewpoint ST in the initial state is set to advance linearly as an example. Note that the arrangement position of the object and the trajectory of the viewpoint are not limited to those described above. In this state, the objects OB1, OB2, and OB3 are not arranged on the trajectory KD1. The viewpoint ST of the virtual camera moves according to the trajectory KD1. An image from the moving viewpoint ST is displayed on the image display device 5.

  When the update setting of the object arrangement position in step S507 shown in FIG. 11 is executed, for example, the object OB2 moves leftward and is arranged on the trajectory KD1 as shown in FIG. 12B. Since the object OB2 is placed on the trajectory KD1, the viewpoint trajectory changing process in step S510 shown in FIG. 11 is executed. Then, as shown in FIG. 12C, the new viewpoint trajectory KD2 is calculated and set so as to pass through a position that does not contact the object OB2. The viewpoint ST of the virtual camera moves according to the new viewpoint trajectory KD2. Therefore, the viewpoint ST of the virtual camera passes next to the object OB2 without contacting the object OB2, as shown in FIG.

  Next, main effect screens when a three-dimensional display effect is executed will be described with reference to FIGS. 13 (A) to (C) and FIGS. 14 (A) to (C). When the 3D display effect is executed, an image from the viewpoint of the virtual camera located on the trajectory KD1 is displayed on the image display device 5, as shown in FIG. A character CH is displayed on the trajectory KD1, and the character CH moves forward as the viewpoint of the virtual camera moves.

  On the image display device 5, an object OB1 representing a building is displayed. When the viewpoint of the virtual camera moves, the object OB1 approaches and is displayed on the image display device 5 as shown in FIG. 13B, and when the viewpoint of the virtual camera moves further, the object OB1 as shown in FIG. 13C. Disappears from the image display device 5 and the object OB2 is displayed on the image display device 5. Then, as shown in FIG. 14A, an effect that the object OB2 collapses is performed, and the object OB2 changed to a wreckage is arranged on the track KD1. Further, a transparent hit determination object JOB2 corresponding to the object OB2 changed to a wreckage is also arranged on the trajectory KD1. Although the hit determination object JOB2 is transparent and is not displayed on the image display device 5, in FIGS. 14A to 14B, the hit determination object JOB2 is indicated by a broken line. Since the object OB2 is arranged on the trajectory KD1 as described above, the viewpoint trajectory change processing is performed, and the viewpoint of the virtual camera moves according to the new trajectory KD2, as shown in FIG. The viewpoint of the virtual camera passes next to the object OB2 without touching the object OB2. Thereafter, the object OB2 disappears from the image display device 5 and the object OB3 is displayed on the image display unit 5 as shown in FIG.

  As described above, according to the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to the above embodiment, for example, as shown in FIG. 12B, the arrangement position of the object arranged in the virtual three-dimensional space is updated, and the object OB2 Is moved leftward and placed on the trajectory KD1, viewpoint change processing such as viewpoint trajectory change processing is executed. In this way, when the object OJ2 is placed on the viewpoint trajectory KD1, the viewpoint changing process is performed, so that a suitable display of the image can be performed.

  According to the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to the above-described embodiment, for example, the viewpoint trajectory changing process in step S510 is executed as the viewpoint changing process, and a new viewpoint trajectory KD2 as shown in FIG. It is calculated and set so as to pass through a position that does not contact OB2. The viewpoint ST of the virtual camera moves according to the new viewpoint trajectory KD2. Thereby, the viewpoint ST of the virtual camera passes next to the object OB2 without contacting the object OB2. Thus, the viewpoint can be suitably changed by executing the viewpoint changing process.

  According to the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to the above-described embodiment, for example, as shown in FIG. 14 (A), the transparent object corresponding to the object OB2 is located at the position corresponding to the object OB2 arranged in the virtual three-dimensional space. A hit determination object JOB2 is arranged, and the hit determination object JOB2 is composed of a smaller number of polygons than the number of polygons constituting the object OB2. When the hit determination object is arranged on the viewpoint trajectory of the virtual camera, it is determined that the object is arranged on the trajectory, and the viewpoint is changed. In this way, it is possible to determine whether or not an object has been placed on the viewpoint trajectory KD1 using the hit determination object, so that the burden on determination control can be reduced.

  According to the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to the above-described embodiment, for example, a process of setting an object placed in the three-dimensional virtual space to an initial state is executed as a start-up process, and the object is placed on the viewpoint trajectory. Not in a state. In this way, when the power is turned on, no object is arranged on the viewpoint trajectory, so that unintended display can be suppressed.

  According to the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to the above-described embodiment, for example, in the jackpot display process in step S174, the process of setting the object arranged in the three-dimensional virtual space and the trajectory of the viewpoint to the initial state is executed. Is updated to the same state as when the power was turned on. In this way, when the variable display result is “big hit”, the arrangement position of the object is updated to the same state as when the power is turned on. Therefore, unintended display can be suppressed.

  In addition, this invention is not limited to the said embodiment, A various deformation | transformation and application are possible. For example, the pachinko gaming machine 1 does not have to include all the technical features shown in the above embodiment, and the part described in the above embodiment so as to solve at least one problem in the prior art. It may be provided with the following structure.

  In the above-described embodiment, for example, the viewpoint trajectory changing process for changing the viewpoint trajectory is executed as the viewpoint changing process. However, the viewpoint changing process is not limited to the viewpoint trajectory changing process, and may be the following modification. For example, a first viewpoint and a second viewpoint that are different from each other in the virtual three-dimensional space are provided, and a viewpoint switching process for switching the viewpoint of the image displayed on the image display device 5 from the first viewpoint to the second viewpoint is executed. Depending on the situation, the viewpoint may be changed.

  FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the viewpoint switching process. The viewpoint switching process is executed in place of the processes in steps S510 and S511 after it is determined in step S509 in FIG. 11 that the object has been placed on the viewpoint trajectory (step S509; Yes).

  In the viewpoint switching process shown in FIG. 15, the effect control CPU 120 sets the image display time from the second viewpoint, the timing for switching the viewpoint of the image displayed on the image display device 5 from the first viewpoint to the second viewpoint, and the like. (Step S551). In step S551, the CPU 120 for effect control sets, for example, a time longer than the time required for the passage of the object as the image display time from the second viewpoint based on the object arrangement position set in the process of step S507. Then, the timing before the contact with the object may be set as the timing for switching from the first viewpoint to the second viewpoint.

  After executing the process of step S551, the CPU 120 for effect control displays an image from the second viewpoint on the image display device 5 based on the content set by the process of step S551 for the VDP 130 of the display control unit 123. A display control command is transmitted for the purpose (step S552). After executing the process of step S552, the effect control CPU 120 ends the viewpoint switching process.

  FIGS. 17A to 17C show an operation example when the viewpoint switching process is executed. FIGS. 17A to 17C are views of the virtual three-dimensional space as viewed from above.

  As shown in FIG. 17A, as an example, objects OB1, OB2, and OB3 and hit determination objects JOB1, JOB2, and JOB3 corresponding to these objects have predetermined intervals in the virtual three-dimensional space. It is arranged with a gap. In the virtual three-dimensional space, the first viewpoint ST1 of the first virtual camera and the second viewpoint ST2 of the second virtual camera are provided at different positions. For example, the trajectory KD1 of the first viewpoint ST1 and the trajectory KD2 of the second viewpoint ST2 are set to advance linearly. Note that the arrangement position of the object and the trajectory of the viewpoint are not limited to those described above. In this state, the object is not arranged on the trajectory KD1 and the trajectory KD2. The first viewpoint ST1 moves according to the trajectory KD1. An image from the moving first viewpoint ST1 is displayed on the image display device 5. The second viewpoint ST2 moves according to the trajectory KD2 along with the movement of the first viewpoint ST1.

  When the update setting of the object arrangement position in step S507 shown in FIG. 11 is executed, for example, as shown in FIG. 17B, the object OB2 moves leftward and is arranged on the trajectory KD1. Since the object OB2 is arranged on the trajectory KD1, the viewpoint switching process shown in FIG. 15 is executed. By executing the viewpoint switching process, the viewpoint of the image displayed on the image display device 5 is switched from the first viewpoint ST1 to the second viewpoint ST2 based on the content set by the process of step S551. With the image from the second viewpoint ST2 displayed on the image display device 5, the second viewpoint ST2 passes through the object OB2, as shown in FIG. Then, after the image display time from the second viewpoint ST2 elapses, the viewpoint of the image displayed on the image display device 5 is switched from the second viewpoint ST2 to the first viewpoint ST1.

  According to such a pachinko gaming machine 1, for example, the viewpoint switching process is executed as the viewpoint changing process, whereby the viewpoint of the image displayed on the image display device 5 is switched from the first viewpoint ST1 to the second viewpoint ST2. Then, the image from the second viewpoint ST2 is displayed on the image display device 5 and passes through the object OB2 as shown in FIG. By executing the viewpoint switching process in this way, the viewpoint can be changed suitably.

  In the modification, two viewpoints such as the first viewpoint ST1 and the second viewpoint ST2 are provided, but the number of viewpoints is not limited to two. For example, three or more viewpoints may be provided.

  Further, for example, at any given ratio such as 1/2, either the viewpoint trajectory changing process in the above embodiment or the viewpoint switching process in the modified example may be selected and executed.

  In addition to the viewpoint switching process, a periodic switching process for periodically switching the viewpoint of the image displayed on the image display device 5 from the first viewpoint to the second viewpoint may be executed.

  FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the periodic switching process. The regular switching process is executed in the effect control process of FIG. 11 when, for example, it is determined in step S506 that there is no update of the object arrangement position (step S506; No).

  In the regular switching process shown in FIG. 16, the effect control CPU 120 determines whether or not a predetermined time such as one minute has elapsed from the first viewpoint (step S571). When it is determined in step S571 that the image display from the first viewpoint has elapsed for a predetermined time (step S571; Yes), the effect control CPU 120 determines switching of the viewpoint (step S572). In the process of step S572, whether or not to switch viewpoints may be determined using a viewpoint switching determination table prepared in advance by storing in a predetermined area of the ROM 121, for example. In the viewpoint switching determination table, a numerical value (determined value) to be compared with a random number value for determining viewpoint switching may be assigned to the determination result of whether or not to switch viewpoints. The effect control CPU 120 refers to the viewpoint switching determination table based on the numerical data indicating the viewpoint switching determination random number value updated by the random number circuit 124 or the effect random counter, thereby determining whether or not the viewpoint is switched. Just decide.

  After executing the process of step S572, the effect control CPU 120 determines whether or not there is a viewpoint switch (step S573). When it is determined in step S573 that the viewpoint is switched (step S573; Yes), the effect control CPU 120 determines the image display time from the second viewpoint and the viewpoint of the image to be displayed on the image display device 5 as the first viewpoint. The timing for switching from the second viewpoint to the second viewpoint is set (step S574). In step S574, the CPU 120 for effect control sets, for example, a predetermined time such as 5 seconds as the image display time from the second viewpoint, and sets the timing after the elapse of the predetermined time such as 3 seconds from the first viewpoint to the second time. What is necessary is just to set as a timing which switches to a viewpoint.

  After executing the process of step S574, the effect control CPU 120 displays an image from the second viewpoint on the image display device 5 on the VDP 130 of the display control unit 123 based on the content set by the process of step S574. A display control command is transmitted for the purpose (step S575). After executing the process of step S575 or when it is determined in step S571 that the image display from the first viewpoint has not elapsed for a predetermined time (step S571; No), it is determined in step S573 that there is no viewpoint switching. When it is done (step S573; No), the CPU 120 for effect control ends the regular switching process.

  By executing the periodic switching process in this way, the viewpoint switching in the viewpoint switching process and the viewpoint switching in the periodic switching process are performed at an appropriate frequency during the 3D display effect. It is possible to prevent the switching from conspicuous.

  In the above embodiment, a new trajectory is calculated by calculation in the viewpoint trajectory changing process. However, the viewpoint trajectory may be changed by a method other than the method of calculating a new trajectory by calculation. For example, when a plurality of trajectory data is stored in advance in a predetermined area of the ROM 121 and the trajectory is changed, one of the plurality of trajectory data is selected, and the selected trajectory data is changed. What is necessary is just to set as a viewpoint orbit. When selecting trajectory data, a trajectory that does not contact the object may be selected based on the position of the object.

  In the above embodiment, in the jackpot display process of step S174, the object arrangement position is updated to the same state as when the power is turned on. That is, at the timing when the variable display result is “big hit”, the object arrangement position is updated to the same state as when the power is turned on. However, the timing of updating the object arrangement position to the same state as when the power is turned on is not limited to when the variable display result is “big hit”. The timing for updating the arrangement position of the object to the same state as when the power is turned on is, for example, the timing when the demonstration screen is displayed on the image display device 5, the timing when the variable display is performed a predetermined number of times, or the stick controller by the player It may be a timing at which it is detected that a predetermined operation has been performed on 31A or push button 31B. Further, when a device for measuring time to indicate the current date and time is provided, the timing at which a predetermined date and time has come may be used. Further, when an infrared sensor or the like that senses the presence of a player in front of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is provided, the timing at which the infrared sensor no longer senses the player, that is, the player leaves the pachinko gaming machine 1. It may be the timing. In this way, the object placement position may be updated to the same state as when the power is turned on at the timing when the predetermined condition as described above is established in the game.

  The three-dimensional display effect in the above embodiment is executed in a predetermined period from the start of variable display of a decorative pattern, that is, from the start of variable display of decorative symbols to the end of variable display after the variable display result is derived. It is not limited to what is done, and it may be executed over a plurality of variable displays.

  In the above-described embodiment and modification, when an object is placed on the set viewpoint trajectory, viewpoint change processing such as viewpoint trajectory change processing and viewpoint switching processing is performed. However, when updating the arrangement position of the object, the arrangement of the object on the viewpoint trajectory may be limited. For example, one of a viewpoint changing process and a process of restricting the arrangement of objects on the viewpoint trajectory may be selected and executed at a predetermined ratio of 1/2.

  In the above embodiment, in order to notify the CPU 120 for effect control of the variable pattern indicating the variable display mode such as the variable display time of the decorative symbol and the type of reach effect, one variable pattern is specified when variable display is started. Although an example in which a command is transmitted is shown, the variation pattern may be notified to the effect control CPU 120 by two or more commands. Specifically, in the case of notifying by two commands, the gaming control microcomputer 100 uses the first command as a first command before reaching reach, such as the presence or absence of variable display effects such as “slip” and “pseudo-continuous” (reach) If not, a command indicating the variable display time and variable display mode of the so-called second stop) is transmitted, and the second command is reached, such as the type of reach and the presence / absence of a re-lottery effect. You may make it transmit the command which shows variable display time after that (after what is called a 2nd stop when not reaching, and a variable display mode). In this case, the effect control CPU 120 may perform effect control in variable display based on the variable display time derived from the two commands. The game control microcomputer 100 (specifically, the CPU 103) notifies the variable display time by each of two commands, and the specific variable display mode executed at each timing is for effect control. The selection may be performed by the CPU 120. When sending two commands, the two commands may be transmitted within the same timer interrupt, or after a predetermined time has elapsed after the first command is transmitted (for example, in the next timer interrupt). ) A second command may be transmitted. In addition, the variable display mode indicated by each command is not limited to this example, and the order of transmission can be changed as appropriate. In this way, by notifying the variation pattern by two or more commands, it is possible to reduce the amount of data to be stored and prepared in advance as the variation pattern designation command.

  The present invention is applicable not only to the pachinko gaming machine 1 but also to a slot machine or the like. A slot machine is an arbitrary gaming machine that performs a predetermined game such as variable display of symbols that are a plurality of types of identification information and that can be assigned a predetermined game value based on the game result, and more specifically, A variable display device that can start a game by setting a predetermined number of bets (the number of medals or credits) for one game and variably displays a plurality of types of identification information (designs) that can be identified One game is completed by displaying and displaying a display result (for example, a plurality of reels, etc.), and a prize (for example, a cherry prize, a watermelon prize, a bell prize, a replay prize, a BB prize, an RB prize, etc.) is selected according to the display result. ) Can be generated. In such a slot machine, the hardware resources including the image display device of the slot machine cooperate with software for performing a predetermined process, so that the pachinko gaming machine 1 shown in the above-described embodiments and modifications is provided. What is necessary is just to be comprised so that all or one part of the characteristics which may have. For example, in a three-dimensional display effect in which an image from a viewpoint that moves according to a set viewpoint trajectory in a virtual three-dimensional space in which the object is arranged is displayed on the image display device, the object is arranged on the viewpoint trajectory However, it is only necessary to be configured to perform viewpoint change processing such as viewpoint trajectory change processing and viewpoint switching processing.

  In addition, various effects including the device configuration and data configuration of the gaming machine, the processing shown in the flowchart, the image display operation of the image display device, the sound output operation of the speaker, and the lighting operation of the game effect lamp and decoration LED The operation and the like can be arbitrarily changed and modified without departing from the spirit of the present invention. In addition, the gaming machine of the present invention is not limited to a payout type gaming machine that pays out a predetermined number of gaming media as prizes based on the occurrence of winnings, and is scored based on the occurrence of winnings by enclosing gaming media It can also be applied to an enclosed game machine that gives Slot machines are not limited to those where bets are set using medals and credits as gaming values, but only slot machines that set betting numbers using gaming balls as gaming values, or only credits as gaming values. It may be a full credit type slot machine that sets the number of bets using. When game balls are used as game media, for example, one medal can correspond to five game balls. For example, when 3 is set as the bet number, the number of bets using 15 game balls is used. Is equivalent to setting The pachinko gaming machine 1 and the slot machine are not limited to those using only one of a plurality of types of gaming values such as medals and game balls, but for example, a plurality of types of medals and gaming balls. The game value may be used together. For example, a slot machine can play a game by setting the number of bets using any one of a plurality of types of gaming values such as medals and game balls, and a plurality of medals and game balls can be played by winning. Any of the types of gaming value may be paid out.

  The program and data for realizing the present invention are limited to a form distributed and provided by a detachable recording medium to a computer device included in a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine 1 or a slot machine. Instead of this, a form distributed by preinstalling in a storage device such as a computer device may be adopted. Furthermore, the program and data for realizing the present invention are distributed by downloading from other devices on a network connected via a communication line or the like by providing a communication processing unit. It doesn't matter.

  The game execution mode is not only executed by attaching a removable recording medium, but can also be executed by temporarily storing a program and data downloaded via a communication line or the like in an internal memory or the like. It is also possible to execute directly using hardware resources on the other device side on a network connected via a communication line or the like. Furthermore, the game can be executed by exchanging data with other computer devices or the like via a network.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Pachinko machine 2 ... Game board 3 ... Gaming machine frame 4A, 4B ... Special symbol display device 5 ... Image display device 5H ... Start winning memory display area 5L, 5C, 5R ... Decoration symbol display area 6A ... Ordinary winning ball Device 6B ... Normal variable winning ball device 7 ... Special variable winning ball device 8L, 8R ... Speaker 9 ... Game effect lamp 11 ... Main board 12 ... Production control board 13 ... Audio control board 14 ... Lamp control board 15 ... Relay board 20 ... Normal symbol display 21 ... Gate switches 22A, 22B ... Start switch 23 ... Count switches 25A, 25B, 25C ... Hold indicator 31A ... Stick controller 31B ... Push button 35A ... Controller sensor unit 35B ... Push sensor 41 ... Passing gate 81 82 ... Solenoid 100 ... Game control microcomputers 101, 121... ROM
102, 122 ... RAM
103 ... CPU
104, 124 ... random number circuit 105, 125 ... I / O
110 ... Switch circuit 111 ... Solenoid circuit 120 ... Production control CPU
123 ... Display control unit 130 ... VDP
131 ... Image data memory 132A ... VRAM
132B ... Frame buffer 133 ... LCD drive circuits OB1, OB2, OB3 ... Objects JOB1, JOB2, JOB3 ... Hit determination objects ST, ST1, ST2 ... Virtual camera viewpoints KD1, KD2 ... Viewpoint trajectory CH ... Character

Claims (1)

A gaming machine that displays an image from a viewpoint that moves according to a predetermined trajectory in a virtual three-dimensional space in which an object is arranged,
Object arrangement updating means for updating the arrangement position of the object as the game progresses;
Viewpoint changing means for changing the viewpoint when the object is arranged on the predetermined trajectory;
A gaming machine comprising:

Images