JP2015051186A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine capable of reducing a control load for progress of a game.SOLUTION: In a Pachinko game machine PM, main processing started after power on and timer interruption processing started at each fixed period by interrupting the main processing are executed as control for progress of a game. In the Pachinko game machine, the timer interruption processing includes special pattern variation start monitoring control processing (S68) for determining satisfaction of variation start conditions for starting variation display of a pattern on a special pattern display device, and special pattern variation start processing (S420) for starting variation display of a pattern on the special pattern display device in satisfaction of variation start conditions. The timer interruption processing does not execute the special pattern variation start processing (S420) within the same timer interruption processing in determination of satisfaction of variation start conditions by the special pattern variation start monitoring control processing (S68), and executes the special pattern variation start processing (S420) within the next timer interruption processing or thereafter.

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine, in which a predetermined game is executed by using a game ball as a game medium and entering the start port of the game ball.

  For example, in a pachinko gaming machine, on the main control board that controls the game progress, the main process is started after power-on, and the main process is interrupted at regular intervals, and the timer interrupt process is executed. Then, within this timer interruption process, a winning / no-win lottery is executed triggered by a game ball entering the starting port, and a stop symbol and a variation pattern of a symbol called a special symbol are displayed according to the lottery result. After that, the special symbol variation display is started (for example, see Patent Document 1).

JP 2010-273733 A

  However, in recent years, as the game processing has become more complex, it has been difficult to execute various games due to the limit of the processing capacity of the main control board, despite the excessive control burden on the main control board. .

  The present invention has been made in view of such problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that can reduce a control burden for game progression.

  In order to achieve such an object, a gaming machine according to the present invention has a gaming board in which a gaming area is formed, a starting port provided in the gaming area and into which a gaming ball can enter, and a predetermined pattern. It has a symbol display means for variably displaying, a main control means for controlling the progress of the game, and an effect control means for controlling the effects related to the game based on a command from the main control means. A game machine configured to execute a main process that is started after power-on and a timer interrupt process that is interrupted to start the main process at regular intervals as progress control. A first process for determining whether or not a variation start condition for starting a variable display of a symbol is established in the display means, and a symbol variation display on the symbol display means when the variation start condition is satisfied. Second to start The main control means does not execute the second process in the same timer interrupt process when it is determined that the change start condition is satisfied in the first process, and does not execute the second process. The second process is configured to be executed in the process.

  According to the gaming machine according to the present invention, it is possible to reduce the control burden for game progress.

It is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine according to the present embodiment. It is a rear view of a pachinko gaming machine according to the present embodiment. It is a control block diagram of a pachinko gaming machine according to the present embodiment. It is a functional block diagram of a main control board and a sub control board of a pachinko gaming machine according to the present embodiment. It is a figure which shows typically an example of a special symbol winning / losing lottery table. It is a figure which shows typically an example of the symbol table per 1st special symbol. It is a figure which shows typically an example of the symbol table per 2nd special symbol. It is a figure which shows an example of the table for a fluctuation pattern table selection typically. It is a figure which shows an example of a special symbol fluctuation pattern table typically. It is a figure which shows an example of a fluctuation pattern selection state table typically. It is a flowchart which shows the main process side main process of the pachinko game machine based on this embodiment. 12 is a flowchart illustrating a control process following FIG. 11 of the main process on the main control side. It is a flowchart which shows the timer interruption process of the pachinko game machine based on this embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the starting port monitoring control process of a pachinko game machine based on this embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol fluctuation | variation start monitoring control process in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol fluctuation | variation start monitoring process of a pachinko game machine based on this embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol success / failure determination processing in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the symbol determination process in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol control process of the pachinko game machine based on this embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol control general purpose process in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol change start process in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol change process in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol stop symbol display process in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the special electric accessory control process of the pachinko game machine based on this embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the control process following FIG. 24 of a special electric accessory control process. It is a flowchart which shows the control process following FIG. 25 of a special electric accessory control process. It is a schematic diagram for demonstrating the process at the normal time of the pachinko game machine based on this embodiment. It is a schematic diagram for demonstrating the process at the time of the error generation of the pachinko game machine based on this embodiment. It is a schematic diagram for demonstrating the process at the time of generation | occurrence | production of the start winning of a pachinko game machine based on this embodiment. It is a schematic diagram for demonstrating the process at the time of the power failure generation | occurrence | production of the pachinko game machine based on this embodiment.

  Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. A front view and a rear view of a pachinko gaming machine PM according to the present embodiment are shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. First, an overall configuration of the pachinko gaming machine PM will be described with reference to the drawings. The pachinko gaming machine PM according to this embodiment is a model in which two functions corresponding to the conventional first type pachinko gaming machine are mixed, and the first game (first special symbol game) and the second Realizes compatibility with games (second special symbol games).

[Basic configuration of pachinko machines]
First, the basic structure of the front side of the pachinko gaming machine PM will be described with reference to FIG. As shown in FIG. 1, the pachinko gaming machine PM is configured with a rectangular frame size adapted to the front of the opening of the outer frame 1 which forms a vertically fixed holding frame configured in an outer rectangular frame size, and can be opened and closed. The front frame 2 that forms a frame is attached to the front left side edge portion of the front left and right hinge mechanism 3 so that it can be opened and closed sideways and detachable, and is called a double lock provided on the front right side edge portion. The device 4 is always held in a closed state engaged and connected to the outer frame 1.

  On the front frame 2, a rectangular glass frame 5 fitted to the upper front area of the front frame 2 is assembled so as to be opened and closed laterally and detachable using the upper and lower hinge mechanisms 3, and using the locking device 4 It is always kept in a closed state covering the front surface of the front frame 2. In the front frame 2, the game board 20 is detachably set and held, and the game area PA in front of the game board 20 is faced through the double-layer glass of the glass frame 5 that is always held closed. Yes.

  On the front side of the glass frame 5, there are provided an effect lamp 10 that emits light according to the game development status and a speaker 11 that generates sound effects according to the game development status. At the bottom of the glass frame 5, there are provided upper and lower ball dishes (upper ball dish 8 and lower ball dish 9) for storing game balls, and an effect button unit 100 is provided at the front center of the upper ball dish 8. On the front right side of the lower ball tray 9, a launch handle 12 for performing a launch operation of the game ball is provided.

  The game board 20 is configured with a decorative board formed by attaching a cell printed with a predetermined pattern on a rectangular laminated plywood subjected to router processing or the like. On the front surface of the game board 20, an outer rail and an inner rail are fixed in an arc shape, and a substantially circular game area PA on which a game ball can roll is defined, and a windmill and a large number of games are formed in the game area PA. In addition to the nail, in addition to various winning ports such as the first starting port 61, the second starting port 62, the operation gate 63, and the big winning port 64, the first special symbol display device 71, the second special symbol display device 72, the first Various display devices such as a special figure hold lamp 73, a second special figure hold lamp 74, a normal symbol display device 75, and a general figure hold lamp 76 are provided. A center ornament 22 is disposed substantially at the center of the game area PA, and the screen of the effect display device 70 is provided so as to be visible through the center opening of the center ornament 22. At the lower end of the game area PA, there is provided an out port 29 through which the game balls that have tumbled down without entering each winning port are discharged to the back side of the game board 20. Hereinafter, each component provided in the game board 20 is demonstrated in order.

  The first start port 61 is provided as a start winning port corresponding to the first special symbol game, and includes a first start port switch 611 for detecting the entrance of a game ball. Entering a game ball into the first start port 61 triggers the first special symbol lottery.

  The second start port 62 is provided as a start winning port corresponding to the second special symbol game, and includes a second start port switch 621 for detecting the entrance of a game ball. Entering a game ball into the second start port 62 triggers the second special symbol lottery. The second start port 62 includes a normal electric accessory 622 and a normal electric accessory solenoid 623 for opening and closing the normal electric accessory 622. The ordinary electric accessory 622 changes between a closed state in which it is difficult for a game ball to enter the second starting port 62 and an open state in which the game ball is easier to enter than this state. Here, the second start port 62 is disposed almost directly below the first start port 61, and if the ordinary electric accessory 622 of the second start port 62 is not opened, the game ball is caused by the presence of the first start port 61. The structure is difficult to enter. On the other hand, when the ordinary electric accessory 622 is released, the ease of entering the second starting port 62 is increased, and a game ball can be inserted into the second starting port.

  The operation gate 63 is provided as a start winning opening corresponding to a normal symbol game, and includes an operation gate switch 631 for detecting passage of a game ball. Note that the passing of the game ball to the operation gate 63 triggers the normal symbol lottery for determining whether or not to expand the normal electric accessory 622 of the second start port 62.

  The big winning opening 64 is a winning opening that is in the shape of a horizontal rectangle and is located below the game area PA, which is opened when the first special symbol or the second special symbol is determined to be a big or small lottery. . The special prize opening 64 includes a special prize opening switch 641 for detecting the entry of a game ball, and a special electric accessory 642 called a so-called attacker device, and for opening and closing the special electric accessory 642. The large winning opening solenoid 643 is provided. The special electric accessory 642 is variable between a normal state in which a game ball cannot enter or difficult to enter the grand prize opening 64 and an open state in which a game ball can easily enter.

  The first special symbol display device 71 performs variable display and fixed display of the first special symbol when the game ball enters the first start port. The first special symbol display device 71 is composed of, for example, eight LED lamps, and the fluctuation display of the first special symbol is expressed according to the blinking pattern of the lamp, and the blinking of the lamp is stopped and switched to the lighting display. The first special symbol is confirmed and displayed.

  The second special symbol display device 72 performs variation display and confirmation display of the second special symbol when the game ball enters the second starting port. The second special symbol display device 72 is composed of, for example, eight LED lamps, and the variation display of the second special symbol is expressed according to the blinking pattern of the lamp, and the blinking of the lamp is stopped and switched to the lighting display. The second special symbol is confirmed and displayed.

  Here, in this embodiment, the first special symbol display device and the second special symbol display device are provided separately and independently, but the first special symbol variation display and the second special symbol variation display are simultaneously performed. Never executed. In addition, you may comprise so that a 1st special symbol display apparatus may display a 1st special symbol and a 2nd special symbol.

  The first special figure reservation lamp 73 and the second special figure reservation lamp 74 are each composed of, for example, two LED lamps, and the number of operation reserved balls of the first special symbol and the second special symbol is indicated by lighting / flashing display of the lamps. Express (up to 4). The number of reserved balls for operation of the first special symbol is the number of game balls that have entered the first starting port during the variation of the first special symbol or the second special symbol or during the execution of the special game. Indicates the number of authorizations once held. The number of suspended balls in the second special symbol is the number of game balls that have entered the second starting port during the variation of the first special symbol or the second special symbol or during the execution of the special game. Indicates the number of authorizations once held.

  The normal symbol display device 75 is composed of, for example, two LED lamps, and performs normal symbol variation display and fixed display. For example, the regular figure holding lamp 76 is composed of four lamps, and the number of lighting of the lamp corresponds to the number of normal symbol fluctuations held (the number of normal symbol fluctuations not yet executed).

  On the left side of the normal symbol display device 75, there is provided a round indicator (not shown) that displays the number of round games in a special game (number of rounds: the number of times that the special electric accessory 642 operates continuously). ing.

  The effect display device 70 mainly displays an effect image including a decorative pattern and a notice effect that fluctuately display / stop in conjunction with the first special symbol or the second special symbol, and the first special symbol and the second special symbol. Hold display. Specifically, on the screen of the effect display device 70, the first special symbol is synchronized with the decorative symbol display unit 700 on which the decorative symbol change display or the notice effect display is executed, and the first special symbol hold lamp 73. The first special figure hold display section 701 that executes the hold display of the second special figure hold display section 702 that executes the hold display of the second special symbol in synchronization with the second special figure hold lamp 74 Is provided. Although the liquid crystal panel is used in the present embodiment, it may be formed of other display means such as a mechanical drum or LED.

  The center decoration 22 is installed around the effect display device 70, and has functions such as a flow path of the game ball, protection of the screen of the effect display device 70, and decoration. In addition, the center decoration 22 is provided with a movable effect accessory (not shown) that performs an effect operation according to the game development status.

  Next, the basic structure of the back side of the pachinko gaming machine PM will be described with reference to FIG. On the back side of the front frame 2, there is a back set board 30, which has a window that communicates with the front and rear in the center and is based on a base frame that is formed in a rectangular frame shape somewhat smaller than the front frame 2. Via the hinge mechanism 3, it is connected to the back of the front frame 2 so that it can be opened, closed, and detached. A back set cover 30C having a rectangular box shape with an open front is detachably attached to the back set board 30 and is always disposed to cover the back side of the game board 20 attached to the front frame 2. (The main control board 100 and the sub control board 200 described later are thereby covered by the back set cover 30C).

  Each part of the back set board 30 has a storage tank 31 for storing a large number of game balls, a tank rail 32 extending from the storage tank 31 with a gentle downward slope to the right, and a lower end connected to the right end of the tank rail 32. A ball supply passage 33 extending to the ball, a prize ball payout unit 34 for paying out a game ball guided by the ball supply passage 33, and a prize for guiding the game ball discharged from the prize ball payout unit 34 to the upper ball tray 6. A ball passage portion 35 and the like are provided.

  On the back side of the game board 10, there is a main control board (main control board unit) 100 for comprehensively controlling the operation of the pachinko machine PM, and effects such as image display, effect lighting, and sound effects according to game development. A sub-control board (sub-control board unit) 200 for controlling the above is attached. On the other hand, on the back side of the back set board 30, a payout control board (payout control board unit) 300 that performs control related to the launch and payout of game balls, and various control boards, A power supply board (power supply board unit) 400 for supplying power to the electronic components is attached. In order to prevent unauthorized modification, these control boards are respectively placed at predetermined positions on the back of the game board 20 or the back set board 30 in an assembled state housed in a transparent resin board case having a caulking structure and a sealing structure. Arranged. These control boards and the electrical / electronic components of each part of the pachinko gaming machine PM are connected to each other via a harness (connector cable) so that the pachinko gaming machine PM can be operated.

[Basic operation of pachinko machines]
The pachinko gaming machine PM configured as described above can be used in a game in which the outer frame 1 is fixedly installed on the gaming island of the gaming facility, and the front frame 2, the glass frame 5, the ball tray unit 6 and the like are closed and locked. The game is started by storing the game ball in the upper ball tray 8 and rotating the launch handle 12. When the firing handle 12 is rotated, the game balls stored in the upper ball tray 8 are launched one by one by a ball feed mechanism 13 (see FIG. 3) disposed on the back side of the glass frame 5. 14 (see FIG. 3), and is launched into the game area PA by the launch mechanism 14.

  When a game ball rolling down in the game area PA enters one of the first start port 61, the second start port 62, the operation gate 63, or the big winning port 64, a winning ball corresponding to the type of the winning port Is paid out to the upper ball tray 8 or the lower ball tray 9 by the prize ball payout unit 33. When the game ball enters the first starting port 61, the first special symbol display device 71 displays the first special symbol in a variable manner, and in synchronization with this, the decorative symbol display unit 700 of the effect display device 70 displays the decorative symbol. Is displayed fluctuating. When the game ball enters the second starting port 62, the second special symbol display device 72 displays the second special symbol in a variable manner, and in synchronism with this, the decorative symbol display unit 700 of the effect display device 70 displays the decorative symbol. Is displayed fluctuating. The variation display of the first special symbol, the second special symbol, and the decorative symbol is stopped (determined display) after the lapse of the variation time previously determined by lottery.

  When the first special symbol and the second special symbol at the time of the variable display stop are in a stop mode indicating a big win, the game shifts to a special game that is more advantageous to the player than the normal game, and opens / closes the big prize opening 64 Operation starts. The stop pattern of the decorative symbol indicating the big hit is, for example, a mode in which the types of three symbols match. In this embodiment, as a special game, a round game is set to 2 times (2 rounds), a 2R special game, a round game is set to 12 times (12 rounds), and a round game is 16 times. 16R special games set to (16 rounds) are provided. Hereinafter, the jackpot indicating the transition to the 2R special game is also referred to as “2R jackpot”, the jackpot indicating the transition to the 12R special game is also referred to as “12R jackpot”, and the jackpot indicating the transition to the 16R special game is also referred to as “16R jackpot”.

  The big winning opening 64 is temporarily closed after the opening continues for a predetermined time (30 seconds or 0.2 seconds) or after 10 or more game balls enter. One process from opening to closing is referred to as a round game, but may be a mode in which a plurality of short-time opening is repeated during one round game. Here, the opening time of “30 seconds” is set as a time during which it is possible to sufficiently aim for the entry and to obtain a sufficient number of balls. On the other hand, the opening time of “0.2 seconds” is set as a time in which it is practically difficult to aim at entering the ball and it is difficult to acquire the ball.

  In addition, in this embodiment, the probability variation function (hereinafter also referred to as “probability variation”) of the special symbol may be activated after the transition to any of 2R special game, 12R special game, and 16R special game. . When the probability variation function is activated, a lottery with a special symbol jackpot probability higher than the normal probability state is performed, so that a new special game is generated relatively early.

  On the other hand, in the present embodiment, after the special game is finished, the special symbol variation time shortening function (hereinafter also referred to as “time reduction”) is operated regardless of whether or not the probability variation function is involved. When the special symbol time shortening function is activated, the variation time of the special symbol and the decorative symbol tends to be shorter than the normal state. In this example, the duration of the short time state is set to a period of a predetermined number of fluctuations (for example, 50 times) of the special symbol from the end of the special game. On the other hand, in the case of a variable time shortening function associated with the probability varying function, it is set to a period from the end of the special game until the next big hit occurs. In this way, during the operation of the variation time reduction function, the variation time of the special symbol is shortened, so the time until the big hit occurs is shorter than in the normal state where the symbol variation is made with the normal variation time. It can be shortened, and the easy acquisition of jackpot per unit time can be enhanced.

  On the other hand, if the winning / losing lottery corresponds to a result called “small hit”, the small hit game is executed. The small hit game is executed in a manner similar to some types of special games (2R special games). However, the round game executed as a small hit game is only one time, which is different from the special game in which a plurality of round games are executed. In addition, since the small hit game is not a special game generated by the big hit, it does not trigger the change of the game state related to the probable change state and the short time state of the special symbol. That is, the game state is maintained as it is before and after the small hit game.

  When the special symbol variation time shortening function is activated, a so-called electric chew support function is activated, and a transition to the easy entry state (electric chew support state) is made. In the easy-to-enter state, the ease of entering the second starting port 62 is enhanced by the operation of the normal symbol variation time shortening function, the normal symbol probability variation function, and the normal electric accessory opening time extension function. It is a state that can be.

  When the normal symbol variation time shortening function is activated, the normal symbol variation time is reduced. When the normal symbol probability variation function is activated, the normal symbol winning probability is increased from the normal state. When the opening time extension function of the ordinary electric accessory 622 is activated, the opening time of the ordinary electric accessory 622 becomes longer than the normal state.

  As described above, in the easy entry state, the possibility that the number of fluctuations of the normal symbol per certain time increases more than usual and the ease of entering the second start opening 62 also increases. The possibility that the number of balls entering 62 increases. Therefore, by operating the special symbol variation time shortening function and the electric chew support function, the chance to obtain a winning ball by entering the second starting port 62 increases during the period, so that the number of possessed balls is hardly reduced. The game can be continued. Here, the operation trigger in the easy-to-enter state (electric chew support state) is synchronized with the trigger of the special symbol variation time reduction function, and the termination trigger is also synchronized with the termination of the special symbol time reduction function. . Although the electric chew support state may be referred to as the short-time state, strictly speaking, the electric chew support state is a state related to the normal symbol lottery, and the short-time state is a state related to the special symbol lottery, or The special symbol lottery and the normal symbol lottery are in a state of interest.

  In the present embodiment, as described above, the three functions of the normal symbol variation time shortening function, the normal symbol probability variation function, and the ordinary electric accessory 622 open time extension function are provided. However, as a modified example, the electric chew support function may be realized by one or two of these three functions. Moreover, it is good also as a structure which switches according to a gaming state at least any one of three functions between the period to implement and the period not to implement.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 3, each control board mounted in the pachinko gaming machine PM according to this embodiment will be described. FIG. 3 is a control block diagram showing a control configuration of the pachinko gaming machine PM.

  The main control board 100 is equipped with a game control microcomputer 101 having a built-in CPU 101A, ROM 101B and RAM 101C, and the CPU 101A is configured to execute main control related to game progression according to a control program stored in the ROM 101B. Yes.

  In addition to the game control microcomputer 101A, the main control board 100 includes a clock generation circuit 102 that generates a clock signal that serves as an operation reference for the CPU 101A, a switch circuit 103 that receives detection signals from various switches, and a symbol display device 71. , 72, 75 and the hold lamps 73, 74, 76, etc. are mounted on the LED drive circuit 104, the solenoid circuit 105 for driving the electric accessory solenoids 623, 643, and the like.

  The clock generation circuit 102 includes, for example, a crystal oscillator or a crystal resonator, generates a clock signal that becomes an original oscillation signal having a predetermined frequency (for example, 32 MHz), and outputs the clock signal to the game control microcomputer 101.

  The switch circuit 103 is electrically connected to the first start port switch 611, the second start port switch 621, the operation gate switch 631, the big prize port switch 641, and the like, and receives detection signals from various switches to play the game. The data is transmitted to the control microcomputer 101. Although not shown, the switch circuit 103 is also electrically connected to a door opening switch, a frame opening switch, a back set switch, a magnetic sensor, a radio wave sensor, and the like, which will be described later.

  The LED drive circuit 104 includes a first special symbol display device 71, a second special symbol display device 72, a first special symbol hold lamp 73, a second special figure hold lamp 74, a normal symbol display device 75, a general figure hold lamp 76, And various display devices are driven based on control signals from the game control microcomputer 101.

  The solenoid circuit 105 is electrically connected to the ordinary electric combination solenoid 623 and the special electric combination solenoid 643, and based on the control signal from the game control microcomputer 101, the normal electric combination solenoid 623 and the special electric combination solenoid The object solenoid 543 is driven.

  The game control microcomputer 101 is composed of, for example, a one-chip microcomputer, and includes a CPU 101A that performs various arithmetic processes related to games, a ROM 101B that stores control programs and various data, a RAM 101C that serves as a temporary storage area, and a clock. A clock circuit 101D that divides the clock signal from the generation circuit 102 to generate an internal system clock, and a WDT circuit (watchdog timer circuit) that resets and returns to a normal state when the CPU 101A malfunctions or runs away ) 101E, a CTC circuit (counter timer circuit circuit) 101F that enables real-time interrupt generation and time measurement, and a random number generation circuit 101G that operates independently of timer interrupt processing by the CPU 101A and generates random numbers related to special symbol games Etc. are mounted, which are connected to each other via an internal bus.

  The CPU 101A executes various processes related to the main control of the game by reading the control program stored in the ROM 101B and performing arithmetic processing based on the detection information from each switch. The RAM 101 </ b> C is a backup RAM as a nonvolatile storage unit that is backed up by a backup power supply (VBB) generated in the power supply substrate 400. The backup area of the RAM 101C is an area for storing data such as a stack pointer and each register held when the power is turned off when the power is turned off. ), The state of the gaming machine is restored to the state before power-off based on the information in the backup area.

  The clock circuit 101D divides the clock signal input from the clock generation circuit 102 by a predetermined division ratio, and supplies this to the CPU 101A and internal circuits as an internal system clock (MHz). The system clock is also output from the output terminal of the clock circuit 101D to a peripheral control circuit outside the game control microcomputer 101.

  The CTC circuit 101F is a circuit that has a programmable timer counter (PTC) and can generate a real-time interrupt and measure time. The CTC circuit 101F further divides the internal system clock to generate a clock signal for issuing a timer interrupt to the CPU at a predetermined period (4 ms).

  The game control microcomputer 101 having such a configuration is a software for special symbols as a random number counter for generating various random numbers (software random numbers) by program processing of the CPU 101A in a work area assigned to a predetermined address of the RAM 101C. Random number counter, Soft initial value random number counter per special symbol, Symbol random number counter per special symbol, Symbol initial value random number counter per special symbol, Special symbol variation pattern random number, Random number counter per ordinary symbol, Initial value random number counter per ordinary symbol, Normal symbol Fluctuation pattern random numbers. These random number counters serve as random number generation means for generating random numbers in software. This software random number includes: software random number per special symbol, symbol random number per special symbol, symbol initial value random number per special symbol, random symbol variation pattern random number, random symbol per regular symbol, random number per normal symbol, random symbol normal pattern variation , Etc. are included.

(Soft random number per special symbol)
The soft random number per special symbol is a random number used for the lottery of special symbols, and is added to the internal random number when the internal random number generated by the random number generation circuit is acquired (as a result, the random number per special symbol is can get). The soft random number per special symbol can take all 65521 values from “0 to 65520”. As a method for updating the random number, “1” is added every interruption cycle, and when the addition result exceeds the maximum value “65520”, the value returns to the minimum value “0”. When the random number makes one round from the initial value, the value of the soft initial value random number per special symbol at that time is set as the initial value. The random number is updated once each time a timer interrupt occurs. The random number is acquired when the game ball is detected by the first start port switch 611 or the second start port switch 621.

(Soft initial random number per special symbol)
The soft initial value random number per special symbol is a random number for determining the initial value and the end value of the random number per special symbol. The initial value random number per special symbol can take all 65521 values from “0 to 65520”. As a method for updating the random number, “1” is added every interruption cycle, and when the addition result exceeds the maximum value “65520”, the value returns to the minimum value “0”. The update time of the random number is updated once every time the timer interrupt process occurs, and is updated using the remaining time of the interrupt cycle even when the timer interrupt process is not executed (the process of S24 described later is performed). reference).

(Random number of symbols per special symbol)
The random number per ordinary symbol is a random number used to determine a winning symbol (a combination of symbols that will activate the condition device) as a special symbol stop symbol. The symbol random number per special symbol can take a total of 1000 values from “0 to 999”. As a method for updating the random number, “1” is added for each interrupt cycle, and when the addition result exceeds the maximum value “999”, the value returns to the minimum value “0”. When the random number makes one round from the initial value, the value of the symbol initial value random number per special symbol at that time is set as the initial value. The random number is updated once each time a timer interrupt occurs. The random number is acquired when the game ball is detected by the first start port switch 611 or the second start port switch 621.

(Soft initial random number per special symbol)
The symbol initial value random number per special symbol is a random number for determining the initial value and the end value of the symbol random number per special symbol. The symbol initial value random number per special symbol can take a total of 1000 values from “0 to 999”. As a method for updating the random number, “1” is added for each interrupt cycle, and when the addition result exceeds the maximum value “999”, the value returns to the minimum value “0”. The update time of the random number is updated once every time the timer interrupt process occurs, and is updated using the remaining time of the interrupt cycle even when the timer interrupt process is not executed (the process of S24 described later is performed). reference).

(Random number of symbols per special symbol)
The special symbol variation pattern random number is a random number used for selecting the variation pattern of the special symbol. The special symbol variation pattern random numbers can take a total of 50,000 numbers from “0 to 49999”. As a random number update method, “3511” is subtracted from the previous random number value every interrupt cycle. If the subtraction result is less than “0”, “50000” is added to the subtraction result. The random number is updated once each time a timer interrupt occurs. The random number is acquired when the game ball is detected by the first start port switch 611 or the second start port switch 621.

(Random per normal symbol)
The random number per normal symbol is a random number used for the lottery of normal symbols. Ordinary random numbers per symbol can take a total of 283 numerical values from “0 to 282”. As a method for updating the random number, “1” is added every interruption cycle, and when the addition result exceeds the maximum value “282”, the value returns to the minimum value “0”. When the random number makes one round from the initial value, the initial value random number per normal symbol at that time (details will be described later) is set as the initial value. The random number is updated once each time a timer interrupt occurs. The time for acquiring the random number is when the passage of the game ball is detected by the operation gate switch 631.

(Normal initial random number per symbol)
The initial value random number per ordinary symbol is a random number for determining the initial value and the end value of the random number per ordinary symbol. The initial value random number per normal symbol can take a total of 283 values from “0 to 282”. As a method for updating the random number, “1” is added every interruption cycle, and when the addition result exceeds the maximum value “282”, the value returns to the minimum value “0”. The update time of the random number is updated once every time the timer interrupt process occurs, and is updated using the remaining time of the interrupt cycle even when the timer interrupt process is not executed (the process of S24 described later is performed). reference).

(Normal design variation pattern random number)
The normal symbol variation pattern random number is a random number used for selecting the variation pattern of the ordinary symbol. The normal symbol variation pattern random numbers can take a total of 233 values from “0 to 232”. As a method for updating the random number, “1” is added every interruption cycle, and when the addition result exceeds the maximum value “232”, the value returns to the minimum value “0”. The random number is updated once each time a timer interrupt occurs. The time for acquiring the random number is when the passage of the game ball is detected by the operation gate switch 631.

  The game control microcomputer 101 has a built-in random number generation circuit 101G for generating a 2-byte built-in random number forming a part of the random number per special symbol, as a system separate from the program processing (software random number) of the CPU 101A. ing. As described above, by adopting a configuration in which the random number generation circuit 101G is built in the microcomputer, it is difficult to illegally read or falsify random numbers as compared with the case where the random number generation circuit 101G is externally attached. The random number generation circuit 101G uses the internal system clock (16 MHz) from the clock circuit 101D as a counter clock, and generates a random number in the range of “0 to 65535” according to a certain rule. The random number generation circuit is provided with a random number register for taking in the value of the built-in random number.

(Random number per special symbol)
The random number per special symbol is a random number to be used for the special symbol winning / losing lottery. The random number per special symbol is obtained by taking in the internal random number generated by the random number generation circuit 101G by software and adding the above-described soft random number per special symbol. The random number per special symbol (built-in random number) can take a total of 65536 values from “0 to 65535”. The internal random number is updated once based on a clock signal (1 clock) having a predetermined frequency (16 MHz) (1 clock 1 random number generation method). In the present embodiment, in the clock circuit 101D, the external clock signal from the clock generation circuit 102 is divided by a predetermined division ratio and used as the count clock. The initial value of the internal random number is a numerical value calculated by a predetermined calculation based on the ID number (unique identification information given to each microcomputer) of the game control microcomputer 101, and is changed every time the system is reset. . The built-in random numbers do not overlap with each other during a cycle of “0 to 65535” (the bias does not occur in the result of the internal lottery). As a method for changing the built-in random number, the random number sequence is updated every time it is completed. The update cycle of the internal random number is the cycle of the clock signal, and is 0.063 μs when the frequency is 16 MHz as described above. On the other hand, since the execution cycle of the timer interrupt process is 4 ms, the internal random number update cycle is sufficiently shorter than the interrupt cycle.

  The time for obtaining the random number per special symbol (built-in random number) is when the entry of the game ball is detected by the first start port switch 611 or the second start port switch 621. In other words, when the first start port switch 611 or the second start port switch 621 detects that a game ball has entered, a built-in random number is obtained from the random number generation circuit 101G, and a soft random number per special symbol of the random number counter is obtained. Is added to obtain a random number per special symbol.

  The sub-control board 200 is mainly configured by an effect control microcomputer 201 equipped with a CPU 201A, a ROM 201B, and a RAM 201C, and the CPU 201A executes main control related to the game effect according to a control program stored in the ROM 201B. It has become.

  In addition to the effect control microcomputer 201, the sub-control board 200 includes an image control circuit 202 for performing display control of the effect display device 70 based on image data stored in an image ROM (not shown), an audio ROM ( A sound control circuit 203 for performing sound control of a speaker or the like based on sound data stored in an unillustrated), an illumination control circuit 204 for performing light emission control of the effect lamp according to a predetermined light emission pattern, and the like are mounted. ing. Here, the image control circuit 202 includes a VDP or the like, and the sound control circuit 203 includes a sound source IC or the like. The sub control board 200 is connected to the main control board 100 so as to be able to communicate in one direction. For this reason, data cannot be transmitted from the sub control board 200 to the main control board 100, and the main control board 100 cannot be requested to transmit data.

  The payout control board 300 is mainly composed of a payout control microcomputer 301 equipped with a CPU 301A, a ROM 301B and a RAM 301C. The payout control board 300 is connected to the main control board 100 so as to be capable of bidirectional communication. The payout control board 300 drives the prize ball payout unit 34 on the basis of a payout control command from the main control board 100 to pay out a prize ball. And the ball feed mechanism 13 and the launch mechanism 14 are driven synchronously based on the operation amount of the launch handle 12 to control the launch of the game ball.

  Although not shown in detail, the power supply board 400 includes a normal power supply circuit for generating a normal power supply used by each control board based on a primary power supply supplied from a power supply facility on the amusement island, and a backup power supply. (VBB) is generated, and a power-off monitoring circuit for monitoring power-off due to a voltage drop is provided. The electronic / electrical parts such as control boards and game machines Supply the necessary power. A power switch for starting the power circuit is connected to the power board 400, and when the power switch is turned on on the assumption that the primary power is supplied from the power supply device of the game island, the power board A predetermined power is supplied to each control board from 400 normal power supply circuits. The power supply board 400 is configured to be able to detect that the power supply from the power supply device on the amusement island is cut off. When the power supply is detected, the power supply board 400 transmits a power supply cutoff signal (NMI signal) to notify that to the main control board 100. And to the payout control board 300. The backup power supply circuit is charged when power is supplied to the pachinko gaming machine PM from the power supply device on the game island.

  The power supply board 400 is connected to a RAM clear switch 401 for temporarily erasing the temporarily stored contents of the RAM 101C of the main control board 100 and setting an initial value when the pachinko gaming machine PM is turned on. Note that the RAM clear switch 401 may be connected to the main control board 100 instead of the power supply board 400, for example.

[Main functional configuration of pachinko machines]
Next, various functions of the pachinko gaming machine PM (mainly the main control board 100 / sub control board 200) according to the present embodiment will be described with additional reference to the functional block diagram of FIG.

<Main control board>
As shown in FIG. 4, the main control board 100 includes an incoming ball judging means 110, a lottery random number generating means 120, a holding control means 130, a prior judgment means 135, a special symbol lottery processing means 140, a normal symbol lottery processing means 150, a demo. It includes an effect setting means 160, a symbol display control means 165, an electric accessory control means 170, a game state control means 175, a main information storage means 180, and a command transmission means 190. Note that each of the above-described units in the main control board 100 is configured by CPU 101A, ROM 101B, RAM 101C, hardware such as an electronic circuit, and software such as a control program stored in the ROM 101B. It is a functional representation of things.

  Based on detection signals from the first start port switch 611, the second start port switch 621, the operation gate switch 631, and the big winning port switch 641, the entrance determination unit 110 determines whether or not a game ball has entered each winning port. judge.

  The lottery random number generation means 120, as software random numbers, the above-mentioned soft random numbers per special symbol, soft initial value random numbers per special symbol, symbol random numbers per special symbol, symbol initial value random numbers per special symbol, special symbol variation pattern random numbers, normal symbol per symbol A random number, an initial value random number per normal symbol, and a normal symbol variation pattern random number are generated, and the above-described built-in random number is generated as a hardware random number. The lottery random number generator 120 adds a soft random number per special symbol to the built-in random number to generate a random number per special symbol. Since the size of each random number, the updating method, the acquisition time, etc. have already been described, the description thereof is omitted here.

  The hold control means 130 includes a special symbol hold control means 131 and a normal symbol hold control means 132.

  The special symbol hold control means 131 is a lottery random number value related to special symbol games, which is a random number value per special symbol, per special symbol, when the game ball enters the first start port 61 or the second start port 62. The design random number value and the special design variation pattern random value are acquired, and the random number value is managed as the operation reserved ball information of the first special design or the second special design. The special symbol holding control means 131 is a main information storage means that combines the action holding ball information of the first special symbol or the second special symbol up to a predetermined upper limit number (4) with the entering order of the holding balls. The first special symbol reservation storage area of 180 or the second special symbol reservation storage area is temporarily stored.

  In the first special symbol reserved storage area and the second special symbol reserved storage area, the reserved 1 storage area (first reserved storage area), reserved 2 storage area (2 A reserved storage area), a reserved 3 storage area (third reserved storage area), and a reserved 4 storage area (fourth reserved storage area). Each reserved storage area can store a random number per special symbol, a random number per special symbol, and a special symbol variation pattern random number as a set as the operating reserved ball information. The operation hold ball information is stored in the order of the hold 1 storage area, the hold 2 storage area, the hold 3 storage area, and the hold 4 storage area, while the hold 1 storage area, the hold 2 storage area, the hold 3 storage area, and the hold 4 storage. Digested in order of area (first-in first-out principle). Further, when the reserved ball information in the hold 1 storage area is digested, the hold ball information stored in the hold 2 storage area, the hold 3 storage area, and the hold 4 storage area is shifted to the lower numbered storage areas, respectively. The contents of the reserved 4 storage area are cleared to zero.

  The special symbol hold control means 131 also includes a first special symbol hold ball number counter for counting the number of active reserved balls of the first special symbol, and a second special symbol for storing the number of active hold balls of the second special symbol. It has a symbol holding ball number counter. The special symbol hold control means 131 adds 1 to the corresponding counter each time one special reserved action ball is acquired as an update process of the number of special reserved action balls. Each time the corresponding counter is decremented by 1.

  Further, when the special symbol holding control means 131 updates the number of the active reserved balls of the first special symbol or the second special symbol, the special symbol holding control means 131 includes an effect control command (referred to as a “symbol memory number command”) including update information of the number of held balls. ) Is generated. This one command includes information on both the number of reserved balls of the first special symbol and the number of activated balls of second special symbol. In principle, the action-reserved balls of each special symbol are digested in the order of entry, but in this embodiment, the variable special symbol is displayed with priority over the first special symbol. In order to adopt so-called preferential digestion, while there is an operation reservation ball related to the second special symbol game, regardless of the presence of the operation reservation ball related to the first special symbol game, the operation reservation related to the second special symbol game It is configured to preferentially digest spheres.

  The normal symbol hold control means 132 is triggered by the entrance of the game ball to the operation gate 63, and is a random number value per normal symbol, a random symbol value per normal symbol, a normal symbol fluctuation pattern, which is a lottery random number value related to the normal symbol game. A random value is acquired, and the random value is managed as the operation reservation ball information of the normal symbol. The normal symbol holding control unit 132 stores the normal symbol operation holding ball information in the normal symbol holding storage area of the main information storage unit 180 in a form combined with the order of entering the holding balls up to a predetermined upper limit number (four). Memorize temporarily. In the normal symbol hold storage area, the hold 1 storage area (first hold storage area), the hold 2 storage area (second hold storage area), and the hold 3 storage area in the order of passage to the operation gate 63. (Third reserved storage area) and four reserved storage areas (fourth reserved storage area) are provided. Each reserved storage area can store a random number per normal symbol and a normal symbol variation pattern random number as a set of operating reserved ball information. The operation hold ball information is stored in the order of the hold 1 storage area, the hold 2 storage area, the hold 3 storage area, and the hold 4 storage area, while the hold 1 storage area, the hold 2 storage area, the hold 3 storage area, and the hold 4 storage. Digested in order of area (first-in first-out principle). Further, when the reserved ball information in the hold 1 storage area is digested, the hold ball information stored in the hold 2 storage area, the hold 3 storage area, and the hold 4 storage area is shifted to the lower numbered storage areas, respectively. The contents of the reserved 4 storage area are cleared to zero.

  Further, the normal symbol holding control means 132 has a normal symbol holding ball number counter for counting the number of normal reserved operation balls. The normal symbol hold control means 132 adds 1 to the corresponding counter each time one normal reserved actuated ball is acquired as the update processing of the number of held normal symbols of the active normal symbol. Each time the corresponding counter is decremented by 1.

  When the predetermination means 135 acquires the operation reservation ball of the special symbol at a predetermined predetermination timing, the predetermination means 135 performs a predetermination of the pre-reading notice effect for the operation reservation ball. Here, the pre-reading notice effect refers to a preliminary decision such as a lottery for an undigested action-holding ball for which a special symbol variation display is pending, and the result of the judgment is notified to the player in advance. It is an effect to notify. Pre-determined timing is (1) Waiting per hit and when the random number value related to the first special symbol is stored while the electric support function is not operating, (2) Waiting per hit and electric support When the random number value of the second special symbol is stored while the function is in operation, (3) When the random number value of the second special symbol is stored during the big hit or the small hit, one of the conditions is satisfied It is time to do. Specifically, the pre-determining means 135 reads a random number value (random value per special symbol, random number value per special symbol, special random symbol value) from the special symbol storage area corresponding to the latest activated ball. Thus, prior determination of the success / failure lottery, preliminary determination of the symbol lottery, and preliminary determination of the variation pattern lottery are sequentially executed.

  The prior determination means 135 has a success / failure notification determination table, a symbol notification determination table, and a variation pattern notification determination table. In each table, all random values are divided into predetermined random value ranges, and a number (notice number) is assigned to each random value range. The notice number is information for specifying the result of the pre-read target holding ball, the type of symbol group, and the variation mode in the pre-read notice effect processing on the sub-control board side. The pre-determining unit 135 determines which random number value range of the pre-read target holding sphere belongs to which random number value range, i.e., to which notice number Determine if it applies. The pre-determining means includes an effect control command including information on a pre-determined result regarding the success / failure ("pre-failure pre-determined command"), an effect control command including information on a pre-determined result regarding the symbol group ("design group prior determining command"), fluctuation An effect control command (“variation pattern prior determination command”) including information on the result of prior determination regarding the pattern is sequentially generated and stored in a command storage area of the main information storage unit 180.

  The special symbol lottery processing unit 140 includes a special symbol success / failure determination unit 141, a special symbol stop symbol determination unit 412, and a special symbol variation pattern determination unit 143. The special symbol lottery processing means 140, when the special symbol variation start condition is satisfied, the random number value per special symbol and the symbol per special symbol stored in the earliest storage area (hold 1 storage area) in the special symbol hold storage area The random number value and the special symbol variation pattern random number value are read out and stored in the special symbol success / failure determination region, the special symbol symbol determination region, and the special symbol variation pattern determination region of the main information storage unit 180, respectively. Here, the special symbol variation start condition is satisfied: (1) No big hit or small hit is in effect, (2) Both the first special symbol and the second special symbol are in the waiting for variation, (3 ) When all the conditions that the operation holding ball exists in at least one of the first special symbol and the second special symbol are satisfied, and as a result, it is determined that the special symbol is in a state in which the variation can be started. . At this time, in the present embodiment, the condition (3) is that the operation holding ball is present in at least one of the first special symbol and the second special symbol. Even when both of the special design's action holding balls are 0, if there is a start opening prize, once the action holding ball is generated, the action holding ball is digested and then the processing related to the start of the change of the special symbol It is because it has come to shift to. Note that the present invention is not limited to this configuration. For example, when the operation holding balls of the first special symbol and the second special symbol are both 0, the operation holding ball is not generated even when the start opening prize is received. Random value per special symbol, special symbol random value per special symbol, special symbol fluctuation pattern random value acquired with the start opening prize, the special symbol propriety determination area of the main information storage means 180 without going through the special symbol holding storage area, It may be configured to store directly in the special symbol determination area and the special symbol variation pattern determination area, and to shift to processing related to the start of variation of the special symbol.

  The special symbol success / failure determination means 141 reads a random value per special symbol from the special symbol success / failure determination area of the main information storage means 180 and executes the determination of the success / failure, and the determination result corresponds to any one of the big hit, the small hit, and the loss Decide what to do. The result of this lottery lottery is temporarily stored in a special symbol determination flag of the main information storage means 180 (for example, big hit data “55H”, small hit data “33H”, loss data “00H”), and is used in subsequent processing. After that, it is cleared when the special symbol changes. The special symbol success / failure determination means 141 holds a special symbol success / failure lottery table which is referred to in the determination of success / failure.

  Here, FIG. 5 is a diagram schematically showing a special symbol winning / losing lottery table, where (a) is a table referred to in a normal state (low probability state), and (b) is a probability variation state (high probability state). It is a table to be referenced. In this special symbol success / failure lottery table, random numbers per special symbol and judgment results of big hits, small hits, and losing are associated with each other. Is determined. As can be seen from FIG. 5, in the special symbol game winning / losing lottery, in the normal state (low probability state), only when the random number value falls within the range of 0 to 163, it is a big hit. On the other hand, in the probability variation state (high probability state), the range of jackpot is expanded, and not only when the random number value falls within the range of 0 to 163 but also when it falls within the range of 164 to 1639. As described above, the range corresponding to the jackpot changes according to the gaming state, but the probability of hitting the jackpot is equal between the winning lottery of the first special symbol and the winning lottery of the second special symbol.

  In this embodiment, even if the random number value per special symbol does not correspond to the big hit range, if it falls within the predetermined range, it is a small hit. In the example shown in the figure, in the first special symbol winning lottery, regardless of the presence or absence of the probability variation state, a small hit is made when it falls within the range of 65208 to 65535. On the other hand, in the winning lottery of the second special symbol, regardless of the presence / absence of the probable change state, a small hit is made when it falls within the range of 65455 to 65535. That is, in this example, the winning lottery of the second special symbol is a small hit with a higher probability than the winning lottery of the first special symbol. In addition, you may comprise so that the winning lottery of a 2nd special symbol may be a small hit with a low probability, or it may be comprised so that a small hit may not generate | occur | produce in the winning lottery of a 2nd special symbol. In the present embodiment, the big hit lottery and the small hit lottery are configured in the same table. However, the present invention is not limited to this configuration, and the big hit lottery and the small hit lottery may be determined in separate tables.

  The special symbol stop symbol determination means 142 determines a stop symbol and a symbol group of the first special symbol or the second special symbol based on the result of whether the first special symbol or the second special symbol is determined. The special symbol stop symbol determination means 142 includes a first special symbol per symbol table that is referred to when determining a stop symbol and a symbol group of the first special symbol and the second special symbol when the result of the winning / failing lottery is a big hit, It has a symbol table per second special symbol.

  FIG. 6 is a diagram schematically showing an example of a symbol table per first special symbol. Here, for convenience of explanation, the symbol table per first special symbol is expressed as a single table, but in actuality, it is composed of a plurality of (four in this embodiment) tables. More specifically, since the symbol random number per special symbol can take a range value from “0” to “999” as described above, the upper byte (1 byte) and the lower byte (1 byte) are composed of two bytes. However, in order to reduce the program capacity, the symbol table per first special symbol is determined based on the upper byte values “0” to “3”, and the lower byte values “0” to “255” are determined. The stop symbol is determined based on this (the same applies to the symbol table per second special symbol described later). For example, when the value of the upper byte is “0”, the symbol table 1 per first special symbol is selected, and when the value of the upper byte is “1”, the symbol table 2 per first special symbol is selected, When the value of the upper byte is “2”, the symbol table 3 per first special symbol is selected, and when the value of the upper byte is “3”, the symbol table 4 per first special symbol is selected. With reference to the symbol table per first special symbol selected here, one of stop symbols “2” to “13” is determined based on values “0” to “255” of the lower byte.

  In the symbol table per special symbol, for each random symbol value per special symbol, the stop symbol, symbol group, jackpot contents (presence / absence of probability change transition, presence / absence of short-time transition, action pattern of the big prize opening 64), respectively It is associated. In this table, the stop symbols “2” to “13” of the first special symbol are classified into five symbol groups A to E according to the type of jackpot.

  Specifically, symbols “2” and “3” include symbol group A (12R specified short time symbol 1), and symbols “4”, “5”, “6”, and “7” include symbol groups. B (12R specific short-term symbol 2) is symbol “8”, “9” is symbol group C (2R specific short-term symbol 1) is symbol “10”, “11” is symbol group D ( The 2R specific short time symbol 2) is associated with the symbols “12” and “13”, respectively, with the symbol group E (12R normal time short symbol). Here, the “specific symbol” is a symbol that activates the probability variation function after the end of the special game, and the “normal symbol” is a symbol that does not activate the probability variation function after the end of the special game. (The same applies to the symbol group of the second special symbol described later).

  Symbol groups A and B are specific symbols indicating so-called “probable hits” that shift the gaming state after the end of the special game to a probable change state (high probability state). Is granted. The specified number of rounds for the special game is 12 rounds, and the maximum opening time of the big prize opening 64 in one round game is about 30 seconds. Since 360 symbols are assigned to the symbol group A, the selection probability of “12R specified short time symbol 1” is 36%. On the other hand, since 150 symbols are assigned to the symbol group B as random numbers, the selection probability of “12R specific short time symbol 2” is 15%.

  The symbol groups C and D change the game state after the end of the special game to the probability variation state (high probability state) although the number of times and the opening time of the special winning opening are different compared to the above “probability variation hit”. It is a specific symbol indicating “suddenly probable hit”, and a time-shortening function and an electric chew support function are given until the next big hit. The specified number of rounds for the special game is two rounds, and the maximum opening time of the big prize opening 64 in one round game is about 0.05 seconds. Since 80 random numbers are assigned to the symbol group C, the selection probability of “2R specific short time symbol 1” is 8%. On the other hand, since 160 symbols are assigned to the symbol group D as random numbers, the selection probability of “2R specific short time symbol 2” is 16%.

  The symbol group E is a normal symbol indicating a so-called “normal hit” in which the game state after the special game ends is shifted to the normal state (low probability state), and is limited to only 50 times after the special game ends. In addition, a power support function is added. The specified number of rounds for the special game is 12 rounds, and the maximum opening time of the big prize opening 64 in one round game is about 30 seconds. Since 250 symbols are assigned to the symbol group E as random numbers, the selection probability of “12R normal time short symbol” is 25%.

  On the other hand, if the result of the winning / losing lottery is a small hit, the symbol determination by the random number is omitted, and the symbol “14” is uniquely assigned as the stop symbol. The symbol “14” is associated with a symbol group K (special electric operation symbol). In the case of a small hit, the game state (probability change function, time-shortening function) is not triggered, and the game state is maintained before and after the winning lottery.

  When the result of the lottery determination is out of place, the symbol “1” is uniquely assigned as the stop symbol.

  Subsequently, FIG. 7 is a diagram schematically showing an example of a symbol table per second special symbol. As for the symbol table per second special symbol, as in the case of the symbol table per first special symbol described above, based on the higher byte values “0” to “3” in the symbol random number per special symbol, The symbol table is determined, and the stop symbol is determined based on the lower byte values “0” to “255”. For example, when the value of the upper byte is “0”, the symbol table 1 per second special symbol is selected, and when the value of the upper byte is “1”, the symbol table 2 per second special symbol is selected, When the value of the upper byte is “2”, the symbol table 3 per second special symbol is selected, and when the value of the upper byte is “3”, the symbol table 4 per second special symbol is selected. With reference to the symbol table per second special symbol selected here, one of stop symbols “15” to “26” is determined based on the values “0” to “255” of the lower byte.

  In the second special symbol per symbol table, stop symbols, symbol groups, and jackpot contents (presence / absence of positive transition, presence / absence of short-time transition, action pattern of the big prize opening 64) for each special symbol random value. It is associated. In this table, the stop symbols “15” to “26” of the second special symbol are classified into five symbol groups F to J according to the type of jackpot. Specifically, the symbols “15” and “16” include the symbol group F (16R specific short-time symbol 1), and the symbols “17”, “18”, “19”, and “20” include the symbol group. G (16R specified short-term symbol 2) is for symbols “21” and “22”, symbol group H (2R specific short-term symbol) is for symbols “23” and “24”, symbol group I (2R A symbol 1) for normal time is associated with a symbol group J (2R normal symbol 2 for normal time) and the symbols “25” and “26”, respectively.

  The symbol groups F and G are specific symbols indicating so-called “probable hits” in which the gaming state after the end of the special game is shifted to a probable change state (high probability state). Is granted. The specified number of special games is 16 rounds, and the maximum opening time of the big prize opening 64 in one round game is about 30 seconds. Since 20 symbols are assigned to the symbol group F as random numbers, the selection probability of “16R specific short time symbol 1” is 2%. On the other hand, since 726 symbols are assigned to the symbol group G as random numbers, the selection probability of “16R specific short time symbol 2” is 72.6%.

  The symbol group H changes the game state after the end of the special game to the probability variation state (high probability state), although the number of times and the opening time of the big prize opening 64 are different from the above “probability variation hit”. It is a specific symbol indicating “sudden probability change hit”, and a time-shortening function and an electric chew support function are given until the next big hit. The specified number of rounds for the special game is two rounds, and the maximum opening time of the big prize opening 64 in one round game is about 0.05 seconds. Since four random numbers are assigned to the symbol group H, the selection probability of the “2R specified short time symbol” is 0.4%.

  Symbol groups I and J are normal symbols indicating so-called “normal hits” in which the gaming state after the end of the special game is shifted to the normal state (low probability state), and limited to only 50 times after the end of the special game. Time saving function and electronic Chu support function are added. The specified number of rounds for the special game is two rounds, and the maximum opening time of the big prize opening 64 in one round game is about 0.05 seconds. Since 246 random numbers are assigned to the symbol group I, the selection probability of “2R normal time short symbol 1” is 24.6%. On the other hand, since four random numbers are assigned to the symbol group J, the selection probability of “2R normal time short symbol 2” is 0.4%.

  On the other hand, if the result of the lottery is a small hit, the symbol determination by the random number is omitted, and the symbol “27” is uniquely assigned as the stop symbol. The symbol “27” is associated with a symbol group L (special electric operation symbol). In the case of a small hit, the game state (probability change function, time-shortening function) is not triggered, and the game state is maintained before and after the winning lottery.

  When the result of the lottery determination is out of place, the symbol “1” is uniquely assigned as the stop symbol.

  Here, as can be seen from the above description, when a big win is won in the first special symbol winning lottery, 12R big hit is selected with a probability of 51%, whereas the second special symbol is positive or negative. If a big win is won in the lottery, the 16R big win is selected with a probability of 72%, so that the player who wins the second starting port 62 wins more balls than the first starting port 61. It is advantageous to the player in that it can be acquired.

  The special symbol variation pattern determining means 143 determines the variation pattern of the special symbol based on the special symbol variation pattern random number value. Here, the special symbol variation pattern determination means 143 holds a plurality of types of variation pattern tables that are referred to when a variation pattern of the special symbol is selected. The special symbol variation pattern determining means 143 determines whether any variation pattern table is selected from a plurality of variation pattern tables based on a variation pattern selection state and a symbol group type, which will be described later, when the result of the lottery is a big hit or a small hit. Select a table. On the other hand, if the result of the lottery determination is out of place, one of the variation pattern tables is selected from a plurality of types of variation pattern tables based on the variation pattern selection state and the number of reserved balls. Also, the special symbol variation pattern determining means 143 determines whether to execute the re-lottery effect based on the current gaming state and the type of symbol group, that is, whether to give additional variation to the selected variation pattern. It is determined (details will be described later).

  FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a variation pattern table selection table that is referred to when a variation pattern table is selected. This table is associated with a variation pattern selection state, a result of winning / failing lottery, a symbol group, the number of reserved balls, and a variation pattern table. In this example, the case where the variation pattern selection state Y2 (details will be described later) is set is illustrated.

  For example, the winning / losing lottery result is a big hit, and the symbol group A (12R specific short time symbol 1), symbol group C (2R specific short time symbol 1), symbol group D (2R specific short time symbol 2), Symbol group F (16R specific short symbol), symbol H (2R specific short symbol), symbol group I (2R normal short symbol 1), symbol group J (2R normal short symbol 2) are set. In this case, the variation pattern table A1N is selected.

  Further, when the symbol group B (12R specified short time symbol 2) and the symbol group G (16R specific time short symbol 2) are set as the jackpot type, the variation pattern table A2N is selected.

  When the symbol group E (12R normal time short symbol) is set as the jackpot type, the variation pattern table A3N is selected.

  If the result of the determination is a small hit and the symbol group K (Special Figure 1_Special Electric Act) is set, the variation pattern A1N is selected and the symbol group L (Special Figure 2_Special Electric Act) is selected. If set, the variation pattern A4N is selected.

  On the other hand, if the result of the determination is wrong, any one of the variation pattern tables A5N, A6N, A7N, A8N is selected according to the number of operation suspension balls (0 to 4). That is, when the number of held balls is 0, table A5N, when the number of held balls is 1, table A6N, when the number of held balls is 2, table A7N, when the number of held balls is 3, table A8N, When 4, the table A8N is selected. At this time, the variation patterns that can be selected in the variation pattern tables A5N to A8N are shortened in average variation time in the order of the variation pattern tables A5N, A6N, A7N, A8N, and A9N. That is, the proportion of the relatively short variation time being selected increases as the number of the operation suspension balls increases, and the proportion of the relatively long variation time selected as the number of operation suspension balls decreases. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and when the result of the lottery determination is out of place, the variation pattern table may be determined according to only the variation pattern selection state without depending on the number of operation-pending balls.

  FIG. 9 is a diagram schematically showing an example of the special symbol variation pattern table. The plurality of types of variation patterns are defined on the assumption that the variation patterns have various variation times, and that the variation of the symbols by the decorative symbols composed of a plurality of symbols is also executed at the variation times. Each variation pattern has a variation time for each pattern as an end condition of the symbol variation, and the variation of the hourly symbol and the decorative symbol is stopped when the variation time elapses. Each table is associated with a special symbol variation pattern random value and a variation pattern.

  As shown in FIG. 9, in the variation pattern tables A1N to A4N that are referred to when the result of the success / failure lottery corresponds to a big hit or a small hit, the variation pattern 7N has a variation time of 78 seconds (reach variation time). In 8N, the variation time (reach variation time) is 167 seconds, in the variation pattern 9N, the variation time (reach variation time) is 132 seconds, and in the variation pattern 10N, the variation time (non-reach variation time) is 4 seconds. Then, a fluctuation time (reach fluctuation time) of 23 seconds is defined respectively.

  On the other hand, in the fluctuation pattern tables A5N to A8N that are referred to when the result of the lottery is wrong, the fluctuation pattern 1N has a fluctuation time of 4 seconds (non-reach fluctuation time), and the fluctuation pattern 2N has a fluctuation time of 6 seconds. (Non-reach variation time) is 12 seconds for the variation pattern 3N (non-reach variation time), 22 seconds for the variation pattern 4N (reach variation time), and 67 seconds for the variation pattern 5N. In the variation pattern 6N, a variation time (reach variation time) of 67 seconds is defined.

  In the present embodiment, after temporarily displaying a decorative symbol different from the lottery result of symbol determination, the symbol is changed again and finally the decorative symbol according to the lottery result is finally displayed. "Direction" may be executed. In this re-lottery effect, for example, an effect (probability promotion effect) that makes it appear as if the non-probability variable symbol “222” has been changed to a probable variable symbol “777” through the process of temporary stop display, re-variation, and finalization display, etc. . Here, “determined display” means that the symbol is stopped and displayed deterministically, and “temporary stop display” means that the symbol is stopped and displayed in a temporary state.

  The special symbol variation pattern determining means 143 determines whether or not to execute the re-lottery effect (whether or not to give additional variation) based on the current gaming state and the type of symbol group. In the present embodiment, the re-lottery effect is executed when a predetermined symbol group (for example, symbol groups B and E) is selected in a specific gaming state (for example, a normal state). As described above, the symbol group B is the 12R specific short-lived symbol 2, and the symbol group E is the 12R normal short-lived symbol, which differ in whether or not the probability changing function is activated after the special game ends. When a re-lottery effect is given, additional variation (additional variation time) is added continuously and integrally to the selected variation pattern (variation time). Here, since the symbol group B is a symbol per probability variation, it becomes a variation effect mode in which the probability variation promotion succeeds in the re-lottery effect. On the other hand, since the symbol group F is a non-probable variation symbol (normal symbol), it becomes a variation effect mode in which the probability variation promotion fails in the re-lottery effect. Here, when the symbol group A is selected, the additional variation is not given, and the probability variation symbol “777” is confirmed as the halt symbol after the decorative symbol variation display (not including the temporary stop display and the re-variation). It becomes the variation production mode to be displayed. Information about whether or not to add additional variation is included in variation added symbol information to be described later, and the sub-control board 200 determines whether or not the re-lottery effect can be executed based on the variation added symbol information command.

  The special symbol variation pattern determination means 143 selects the special symbol variation pattern, and then inspects the communication line with the sub-control board 200 and instructs symbol variation. Therefore, as the effect control command (“variation start command”), “ “Communication inspection 1 command”, “Communication inspection 2 command”, “Variation additional symbol information designation command” including variation additional symbol information, “Variation pattern designation command” including variation pattern information, “Character character number information” The production number designation command "is generated and stored in the command storage area of the main information storage means 180. The communication inspection 1 command and the communication inspection 2 command are commands for confirming whether or not communication with the sub-control board 200 is normally performed.

  The normal symbol lottery means 150 includes a normal symbol appropriateness determination means 151, a normal symbol stop symbol determination means 152, and a normal symbol variation pattern determination means 153. The normal symbol lottery means 150, when the normal symbol variation start condition is satisfied, the random number per normal symbol stored in the first storage area (first storage area) in the normal symbol hold storage area, the normal symbol variation pattern disorder The numerical values are read and stored in the normal symbol success / failure determination area and the normal symbol variation pattern determination area of the main information storage unit 180, respectively.

  The normal symbol success / failure determination means 151 reads a random value per normal symbol from the normal symbol success / failure determination area of the main information storage means 180 and executes the determination of success / failure, and determines whether the determination result corresponds to hit or miss. decide. The result of this lottery lottery is temporarily stored in the normal symbol determination flag of the main information storage means 180 (for example, hit data “55H”, missed data “00H”), and after being used in the subsequent processing, the fluctuation of the normal symbol Cleared when stopped. The normal symbol success / failure determination means 151 holds a normal symbol success / failure lottery table which is referred to during the success / failure lottery.

  The normal symbol success / failure determining means 151 refers to the normal symbol success / failure lottery table which is hit with a probability of, for example, 160/283 in the normal state (low probability state), and for example, 282 in the probability variation state (high probability state) of the normal symbol. With reference to the normal symbol success / failure lottery table that wins with the probability of / 283, the normal symbol success / failure lottery is executed.

  The normal symbol stop symbol determination means 152 refers to the symbol lottery table so as to assign a predetermined winning symbol when the result of the winning / failing lottery is a win and to allocate a predetermined off symbol when the result is wrong. It has become.

  The normal symbol variation pattern determination unit 153 reads the normal symbol variation pattern random number value from the normal symbol variation pattern determination area of the main information storage unit 180 and refers to the normal symbol variation pattern table to display the variation display of the normal symbol in the normal state. In, a relatively long variation time (for example, “4 seconds” to “10 seconds”) is selected. On the other hand, a relatively short variation time (for example, “0.5 seconds”) is selected in the short time state (easy entry state) of the normal symbol.

  The demonstration effect setting means 160, when the result of the lottery determination is a big hit, according to the determined symbol group type, the big hit start demonstration effect and the big hit end demo displayed on the effect display device 70 or the like during the special game. The demonstration performance time related to the performance is determined. The demonstration effect setting means 160 also includes an effect control command (“hit start demo command”) for instructing execution of a jackpot start demonstration effect and an effect control for instructing execution of a jackpot end demonstration effect as demo setting processing for the special game. Generate a command ("Big jack end demo command").

  Also, the demonstration performance time setting means 160, when the result of the lottery is a small hit, the demonstration performance time related to the small hit start demonstration effect and the small hit end demonstration effect displayed on the effect display device 70 or the like during the small hit game. To decide. In addition, the demonstration effect setting means 160 performs an effect control command (“small hit start demo command”) for instructing execution of the small hit start demonstration effect and a small hit end demonstration effect as demo setting processing for the small hit game. An instruction control command to be instructed (“small hit end demo command”) is generated.

  The symbol display control means 165 includes a special symbol display control means 166 and a normal symbol display control means 167.

  The special symbol display control means 166 displays the first special symbol on the first special symbol display device 71 in accordance with the variation pattern (variation time) of the first special symbol, and displays the first special symbol after the variation display. Let Also, the special symbol display control means 166 displays the second special symbol on the second special symbol display device 72 in accordance with the variation pattern (variation time) of the second special symbol, and displays the second special symbol after the variation display. Confirm display. The special symbol display control means 166 has a special symbol game timer for managing the time (variation time, fixed display time) related to the display of the first special symbol and the second special symbol. The operating states of the first special symbol display device 71 and the second special symbol display device 72 are monitored based on the first special symbol game status (details will be described later) and the second special symbol game status (details will be described later) in the main information storage means 180. Is done. The special symbol display control means 166 requests the sub-control board 200 to confirm the decoration symbol when the special symbol fluctuation is stopped (that is, when the value of the special symbol game timer becomes “0”). A production control command (“variation stop command”) is generated.

  The normal symbol display control means 167 variably displays the normal symbol on the normal symbol display device 75 according to the variation pattern (variation time) of the normal symbol, and displays the normal symbol after the variation display. The normal symbol display control means 167 has a normal symbol game timer for managing the time (variation time, fixed display time) related to the normal symbol display. The operating state of the normal symbol display device 75 is monitored based on the normal symbol game status (details will be described later) in the main information storage means 180.

  If the result of the special symbol winning / losing lottery is a big win, the electric accessory control means 170 outputs a control signal to the special electric accessory solenoid 643 as a special game process after the special symbol is confirmed and displayed. The object 642 is opened according to a predetermined operation pattern. In the special game, one opening / closing operation of the special electric accessory 642 is defined as one round game, and the round game is continuously executed for a specified number of rounds (2R, 12R, 16R). Here, when the big hit type is a so-called 16R big hit (symbol group) or 12R big hit (symbol group), the big winning opening is opened for about 30 seconds at the maximum in one round game. On the other hand, when the big hit type is a so-called 2R big hit, the big winning opening is opened for about 0.05 seconds at the maximum in one round game.

  In addition, when the result of the special symbol winning lottery is a small hit, the electric accessory control means 170 outputs a control signal to the special electric accessory solenoid 643 as a small hit game process after the special symbol is confirmed and displayed. The special electric accessory 642 is opened for a short period of time. A small hit game is distinguished from a special game composed of a plurality of round games in that it is composed of a single round game. Here, when the 2R special game and the small hit game described above are compared, although they are internally different, the point of the same opening / closing time (0.05 seconds) and the number of times of opening / closing are the same (the former is Since one opening and closing per round is twice in two rounds, and the latter is common in two opening and closing per round twice, a game with an approximate opening time / opening pattern is developed.

  In addition, when the winning combination lottery of the normal symbol is won, the electric accessory control means 170 outputs a control signal to the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 643 to open the ordinary electric accessory 642 for a predetermined opening time. Here, the electric accessory control means 170 opens the ordinary electric accessory 623 for an extremely short time (for example, 0.2 seconds) in the normal state, whereas it is normally electric in the easy to enter state (electric chew support state). The accessory 623 is opened for a relatively long time (for example, 4 seconds) compared to the normal state.

  The game state control means 175 determines the game state after the special game (probability change state, short time state, easy entry state, etc.) based on the type of the symbol group related to the big win when the result of the winning / losing lottery is a big hit. In addition, the game state after the special game is switched. As the gaming state, the short-time state and the easy-to-enter state are continued until the number of times that the special symbol fluctuates reaches a predetermined number of end conditions, for example, 50 times from the end of the special game. However, when shifting to the probable change state at the same time, as long as the probable change state continues, the short time state and the easy entry state are continued. That is, the probability variation state continues until the next big hit. Thus, the end of the short time state and the easy entry state is determined according to the gaming state. In the short-time state, a variation pattern with a particularly short variation time tends to appear. In the easy-to-enter state, the normal symbol time is shortened, the normal symbol is changed, and the opening time of the ordinary electric accessory is extended. On the other hand, the probability variation state is continued until a special game with the next jackpot is executed. During the probability variation state, the probability that the result of the success / failure lottery by the success / failure lottery will be a big win is maintained as it is (a so-called high probability state). Note that the game state is switched when the special game ends.

  The game state control means 175 determines the variation pattern selection state after the special game and switches the variation pattern selection state after the special game. Here, the variation pattern selection state is one of the conditions referred to when selecting a variation pattern table to be described later. The gaming state control means, when the result of the special symbol winning lottery corresponds to a big hit or a small hit, the current gaming state (the operational state of the probability variation function and the operating state of the short-time function) and the type of symbol group (big hit type) Based on the above, with reference to a variation pattern selection state determination table described later, the variation pattern selection state after the end of the special game or the end of the small hit game and the number of executions thereof are determined. There are six types of variation pattern selection states, such as normal pattern selection states X1 and X2, short-time pattern selection states Y1 and Y2, and limited pattern selection states Z1 and Z2.

  FIG. 10 is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of the variation pattern selection state table. In this variation pattern selection state table, as shown in FIG. 10, even if the types of symbols are the same, the variation pattern selection state determined according to the gaming state is different. The number in parentheses represents the number of executions of the variation pattern selection state. For example, “(50)” shown in FIG. 10 means that the variation pattern selection state is executed 50 times and then switched to the next variation pattern selection state.

  The normal pattern selection states X1 and X2 are states in which a normal variation pattern table that is referred to mainly when the gaming state is the normal state (non-time saving state) is selected. The time reduction table selection states Y1 and Y2 are states in which the time reduction variation pattern table that is referred to mainly when the gaming state is the time reduction state is selected. The limited pattern selection states Z1 and Z2 are states in which a limited variation pattern table that is allowed to be referenced only for a certain period (predetermined number of variations) is selected. This limited variation pattern table includes a variation pattern in which the tendency of the production contents is different from other variation pattern tables. Note that the switching time of the variation pattern selection state is when the special game or the small hit game ends.

  The main information storage means 180 stores the obtained random number value information, information on the game state (probability change state, short time state, easy entry state) regarding the special symbol game and the normal symbol game, information on the variation pattern selection state, and result information on the pass / fail lottery (Hits, small hits, out of play), information on stop symbols and variation patterns related to special symbols and normal symbols, information on special games (number of rounds, opening time, opening mode (number of times released per round game), etc.), special It is configured to temporarily store status information indicating the operating state of the symbol display devices 71 and 72, status information indicating the operating state of the special electric accessory 642, information on the effect control command data, etc., and store each information. A predetermined storage area is provided.

  More specifically, the main information storage unit 180 has, as the work area of the main control board 100, a special symbol success / failure determination region, a special symbol / symbol determination region, a special symbol variation pattern determination region, a special symbol determination flag, and a normal symbol determination flag. , 1st special symbol game status, 2nd special symbol game status, normal symbol game status, probability variation determination flag, probability variation number counter, hourly number of times counter, easy entry state number counter, power off information flag, power off confirmation flag , A command storage area, and the like.

  The special symbol success / failure determination area is an area for storing a random number per special symbol used for determining whether or not a special symbol is successful. The special symbol determination area is an area for storing a symbol random number per special symbol used for symbol determination of a special symbol. The special symbol variation pattern determination area is an area for storing a special symbol variation pattern random number used for variation variation determination of a special symbol.

  The special symbol determination flag is an area for storing the result of the special symbol determination (big hit data, small hit data, and loss data). The big hit is “55H”, the small hit is “33H”, In the case of a loss, “00H” is stored. The normal symbol determination flag is an area for storing the result of normal / bad determination of the normal symbol (hit data, lost data), and “55H” is stored in the case of big hit, and “00H” is stored in the case of loss.

  The first special symbol game status is status information for monitoring the operating state of the first special symbol display device 71, and is “00H” when the first special symbol is on standby for variation, and the first special symbol variation starts. “01H” is stored in the state of “1”, “02H” is stored in the state where the first special symbol is changing, and “04H” is stored in the state where the stopped symbol of the first special symbol is being displayed. Similarly, the second special symbol game status is status information for monitoring the operation state of the second special symbol display device 72, and is “00H” when the second special symbol is waiting for fluctuation, and the second special symbol. “01H” is stored in the state of the start of variation of “2”, “02H” is stored in the state of variation of the second special symbol, and “04H” is stored in the state of stop symbol display of the second special symbol. On the other hand, the normal symbol game status is status information for monitoring the operation state of the normal symbol display device 75. The normal symbol game status is "00H" while the normal symbol is on standby, and "01H" when the normal symbol is changing. “02H” is stored when a normal symbol stop symbol is being displayed.

  The probability variation determination flag is an area for storing a determination result of whether or not to activate the probability variation function of the special symbol after the special game. When there is a request to start the probability variation function, “00H”, probability variation When there is a function activation request, “01H” is stored.

  The probability variation counter is an area indicating the operation contents of the probability variation function of the special symbol, and stores “00H” when the probability variation function is not activated, and “7FH” when the probability variation function is activated. The The time reduction counter is an area for storing information on the number of times the special symbol variation time reduction function operates. The easy-to-enter state counter is an area for storing information on the number of times that the electric chew support function (normal symbol probability changing function, time shortening function, opening extension function) is activated.

  The power-off information flag is an area for storing information used at the time of power-on and power-off of the gaming machine, and “00H” is used as power-off abnormality data according to the state at the time of power-on or power-off. ”,“ 55H ”is stored as data when power supply is normal, and“ AAH ”is stored as data when power supply is normal. The power-off confirmation flag is an area for storing information on the occurrence of power-off, “00H” as clear data when power-off has not occurred, and “55H as power-off confirmation data when power-off has occurred. Is stored.

  The command storage area is an area for storing various effect control commands. The command storage area is composed of a ring buffer, and can store, for example, a total of 64 effect control commands (64 MODE data and 64 EVENT data).

  When there is a command transmission request, the command transmission means 190 transmits various effect control commands (effect control signals) stored in the command storage area of the main information storage means 180 to the sub-control board 200 by the parallel transmission method. Is configured to do. Each presentation control command includes 1-byte MODE data and 1-byte EVENT data. In principle, the effect control command generated in each process is transmitted for each interrupt period in accordance with the order set in the command storage area of the main information storage unit 180.

<Sub control board>
As shown in FIG. 4, the sub-control board 200 includes a hold information display control means 210, an effect pattern storage means 220, an effect content determination means 230, an effect display control means 240, a sub information storage means 250, a command reception means 260, a communication. Error determination means 270. Each of the above-mentioned means in the sub control board is configured by hardware such as CPU 201A, ROM 201B, RAM 201C, electronic circuit, etc. arranged on the sub control board 200 and software such as a control program stored in the ROM 201B. It is a functional representation.

  The hold information display control unit 210 is configured to display the first special symbol on the hold display units 701 and 702 of the effect display device 70 based on the effect control command information (preliminary determination command, symbol memory number command) from the main control board 100. Control is performed to display the number of reserved images corresponding to the number of reserved balls and the number of reserved images corresponding to the number of reserved balls of the second special symbol. In addition, the hold information display control unit 210 executes a pre-reading notice effect based on the result (preliminary number) of the prior determination on the main control board 100 side. In this pre-reading notice effect, a process of changing the display mode of the hold image displayed on the hold display units 701 and 702 of the effect display device 70 is performed (for example, the hold image subject to the pre-reading notice is changed to a big hit based on the pre-determination result. Depending on how much you expect, change from normal white to a special reserved color such as blue, red, or iridescent).

  The effect pattern storage unit 220 holds a plurality of effect patterns in which effect image contents to be displayed on the effect display device 70 in the variation of the decorative design and the display process thereof are determined. The production pattern includes multiple variation production patterns in which the variation process from the variation start to the stop and the production process are defined in the variation display of the decorative symbol, and the variation display of the decorative symbol is displayed in conjunction with the variation display of the decorative symbol, and the expectation to the big hit is high And a plurality of notice effect patterns that suggest the notice before stopping the variable display.

  The effect content determination means 230 determines the effect contents to be displayed on the effect display device 70 by the effect display control means 240 based on the special symbol information (stop symbol information and variation pattern information) received from the main control board 100 side. The effect content determination means 230 displays the combination of the stop symbols of the decorative symbols, their arrangements, and the variation effect patterns, the result of the success / failure lottery by the special symbol lottery processing control means 140, and the special symbol stop symbols (symbol group, variable added symbol information). , Character effect number) and the variation pattern. The effect pattern storage means 220 reads the change effect pattern corresponding to the change pattern of the special symbol determined by the special symbol change pattern determination control means 143 from the effect pattern storage means 220, and displays the information of the change effect pattern as the effect display control means. Send to 240. In addition, the production content determination unit 230 transmits information indicating the determined combination of stop symbols (decoration symbols) to the production display control unit 240. The effect content determination means 230 has a lottery table for reference when determining the stop symbol of the decorative symbol and the variable effect pattern.

  The decorative design variation effect pattern defines a variation display mode of the decorative symbol, that is, a series of effect display processes from the start of variation of the decorative symbol to the end of variation. The variation effect pattern includes a pattern for displaying a normal out-of-order symbol and a pattern for displaying an out-of-order symbol or a jackpot symbol through a reach state in which a big hit is achieved if one more symbols are aligned. In particular, the pattern that passes through the reach state includes patterns having various fluctuation times. For example, normal reach is a low-expectation reach effect that has a relatively short variation time and is a big hit, and after one of the three symbol sequences temporarily stops, the remaining one symbol sequence varies ( Super-reach is a reach production that has a longer variation time than normal reach and a higher win expectation than normal reach. Two of the three symbol sequences are temporarily stopped. After that, the mode in which the remaining one symbol sequence fluctuates frame-by-frame (a mode in which the variation time is relatively long) is pointed out. Each variation effect pattern has a variation time for each pattern as an end condition of the symbol variation, and the symbol variation is stopped after the variation time has elapsed. The effect content determination means 230 selects a change effect pattern of effect images having the same change time according to the change pattern of the special symbol.

  The stop symbol of the decorative symbol is formed as a combination of three symbols. For example, when the result of winning / not-winning lottery means 1135 indicates a transition to 15R special game, a specific combination such as “777” or “111” is used. Thus, a combination of three symbols is selected. A specific combination, for example, a predetermined combination such as “357”, is also selected when the result of the lottery result indicates a shift to 2R special game or a small hit. That is, the specific combination of 2R big hit or small hit does not necessarily have to be a combination of three symbols. If the winning / losing lottery result is neither big hit nor small hit, it is a combination that does not have three symbols such as “312” and “946”, and is a specific combination that is selected at the time of 2R big hit or small hit A combination that does not apply is selected. If the winning / raising lottery result is not 15R big hit, and a variation effect pattern showing a loss with reach is selected, a combination that does not have only one symbol such as “191” or “727” is selected. .

  The notice effect pattern is an effect pattern for temporarily displaying an image, animation, video, or the like of a specific character or motif, or an effect pattern for outputting a specific sound. The effect by the notice effect pattern is executed in parallel with the symbol variation, and suggests that the symbol variation is highly expected to stop in the big hit mode. For example, there are a normal notice effect in which only one character image is displayed on the screen, and a group notice effect in which a large number of characters are displayed so as to pass from one end to the other end of the screen.

  The effect content determining means 230 determines whether or not to display the notice effect on the effect display device 70 according to the result of the lottery determination, makes a prior effect setting, and sets a notice effect pattern to be displayed. decide. The effect content determination means 2212 holds a notice determination table that should be referred to in order to determine whether or not to display the notice effect, and a notice type table that should be referred to when selecting the type of the notice effect pattern. The notice determination table is set so that different columns are referred to depending on the result of the lottery, and if the result of the lottery is a win, the notice effect is displayed with a higher probability than the case of a loss. Correspondence between whether or not to display the result of the lottery and the notice effect is determined. Thereby, it is possible to suggest a high expectation for the big hit by displaying the notice effect itself.

  The effect display control means 240 causes the effect display device 70 to variably display the effect image including the decorative design according to the change effect pattern selected by the effect content determination means 230. The effect display control means 240 starts a new symbol variation when receiving a decoration symbol variation start command from the main control board 100, and displays the decoration symbol stop symbol when receiving a variation stop command.

  The effect display control means 240, when it is determined by the effect content determination means 230 that the notice effect is to be displayed, the effect display device 70 is configured to superimpose the notice effect according to the selected notice effect pattern on the effect of symbol variation. To display. The effect display control means 240 further controls effect processing such as lighting and extinguishing of the effect lamp 10, sound output from the speaker 11, and effect operation by the movable effect agent.

  Further, the effect content determination means 230 is based on the jackpot effect demo time information from the main control board 100, and prior to the execution of the special game, the special game effect including a start demonstration and an end demonstration displayed during the special game ( Determine the content of the jackpot game production). Further, the effect content determining means 230 is based on the big hit effect demonstration time information from the main control board 100, and prior to the execution of the small hit game, the small hit game including the start demonstration and the end demo displayed during the small hit game. Determine the contents of the game production.

  In addition, when receiving the hit start demonstration effect command or the hit end demonstration effect command from the main control board 100, the effect display control means 230, in the effect display device 70, according to the content of the determined special game effect or small hit game effect. Control processing of the hit start demonstration effect and the hit end effect demo.

  The sub-information storage unit 250 is configured to store an effect control command transmitted from the main control board 100 and information related to the effect control, and includes predetermined storage areas for storing information.

  The command receiving means 260 receives the effect control command transmitted from the main control board 100, and the above-described hold information display control means 210, effect pattern storage means 220, effect content determination means 230, effect display control means 240, sub information Necessary information is transmitted to the storage unit 250 and the communication error determination unit 270.

  The communication error determination unit 270 is configured to determine whether or not there is a communication error in the effect control command transmitted from the command transmission unit 190 of the main control board 100 to the command reception unit 260 of the sub control board 200. When it is determined that there is a communication error, the communication error determination unit 270 is configured to notify that there is a communication error using the effect display device 70, the effect lamp 10, the speaker 11, and the like.

[Process on the main control board]
Next, the procedure of the operation process in the main control board 100 will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. The processing on the main control board 100 side includes main control side main processing and timer interrupt processing.

<Main control side main processing>
FIGS. 11 to 12 are flowcharts showing the main process on the main control side of the main control board 100. In the main process on the main control side, after the security check of the CPU 101A is performed by reset at power-on, the program starts and the processes after S1 are started.

  First, as an initial setting required when power is turned on, a head address is set as an initial value of the stack area in the stack pointer (S1), and access to the RAM 101C is permitted (S2). Subsequently, a vector table storing the start address of the program to be processed when a timer interrupt occurs is set (S3), and an initial value is set in the internal register of the CPU 101A (S4).

  Subsequently, it is determined whether or not the RAM clear switch 401 is turned on (S5). Specifically, the input of the RAM clear switch 401 is confirmed five times, and if all the input signals are on (S5: YES), it is determined that the RAM clear switch 401 is turned on, and in S9 described later. All areas of the RAM are cleared to zero. Here, reading of the input of the RAM clear switch 401 is performed only in the step, and is not performed in the subsequent processing (not performed in the input processing of S53 described later).

  On the other hand, if it is determined that the RAM clear switch 401 is not turned on (S5: NO), the value of the power-off information flag is read to determine whether or not the information about normal power-off is stored ( S6).

  Here, when the information indicating that the power is off normally is stored (S6: YES), a checksum is calculated for a predetermined area of the RAM 101C (S7). Then, it is determined whether or not this checksum is 0, that is, whether or not the checksum is normal (S8). Note that the checksum at power-on calculated here includes the complement of the checksum calculated in the power-off process described later, so if it has been backed up normally, Sam becomes “0”. In this way, it is determined when the power is turned on whether the information stored in the RAM 101C before the power is turned off is correctly backed up. At this time, if the checksum is normal (S8: YES), the process proceeds to S12, which will be described later, in order to return to the state before the power interruption. On the other hand, if the checksum is abnormal (S8: NO), the entire area of the RAM 101C is cleared to zero (S9).

  Next, initialization data at power-on is set in the RAM 101C (S10). Subsequently, in order to initialize the effect display device 70, initialize the effect lamp 10, and the like, an effect control command to the sub control board 200 is requested (S11).

  Next, in the power-off recovery setting process, power-on normal information setting, various error initial settings, and communication initial setting with the payout control board are sequentially performed in the RAM 101C (S12). Here, as the setting of the power-on normal information, in order to save that the power was correctly turned on, the power-on normal data is stored in the power-off information flag and the information on the occurrence of power-off is initialized. Turn off the power-off confirmation flag.

  Next, a data transfer source address, a data transfer destination address, and a transfer byte number are set, and data corresponding to the transfer byte number is transferred (S13). Then, a special symbol game status value at the time of power-off is read, and a power-off recovery process related to the special symbol game is performed (S14). Subsequently, in order to initialize the effect display device 70, initialize the effect lamp 10, etc., an effect control command to the sub control board 200 is requested (S15).

  Next, in the symbol memory number command request process, the information on the number of suspended balls in the first special symbol and the second special symbol at the time of power-off is read, and an effect control command including the information on the number of suspended balls is requested ( S16).

  Subsequently, a return setting is made to return the ordinary electric accessory 622 to a state before the power is turned off (for example, the second start port 62 is opened) (S17). Further, a return setting is made to return the special electric accessory 642 to a state before the power is cut off (for example, the big prize opening 64 is opened) (S18).

  Subsequently, the value of the special symbol mode flag is read, and the operation state of the probability variation function of the special symbol when the power is turned off is set (S19). The special symbol mode flag is a flag for setting the operation probability (high probability or low probability) of the special symbol game.

  Subsequently, in order to start a timer interrupt, a predetermined count value is set as an initial setting of the CTC circuit 101F, and a timer interrupt is generated every 4 ms (S20).

  Subsequently, interrupt prohibition is set to prohibit generation of timer interrupt processing (S21). Then, as a preparation for restarting the watchdog timer, clear word 1 (“55H”) is set (S22).

  Next, in order to determine the occurrence of a power interruption, the value of the power interruption confirmation flag is read to determine whether or not a power interruption has occurred (S23). If no power interruption has occurred, an initial value random number update process is executed (S24). In this initial value random number update process, the initial value random number per normal symbol, the soft initial value random number per special symbol, and the symbol initial value random number per special symbol are updated. Specifically, the numerical value of each counter is incremented by 1, and when the numerical value exceeds the maximum value, it is returned to “0” which is the minimum value.

  Next, interrupt permission is set to permit generation of the timer interrupt process (S25), and the process returns to the above-described interrupt prohibition process (S21), and the processes of S21 to S25 are repeatedly executed. Here, the timer interrupt process is periodically executed at predetermined intervals, but using the remaining time from the completion of the previous interrupt process until the next interrupt process occurs, S21 to S25. Repeat the process up to. If there is an interrupt request in the interrupt disabled state, timer interrupt processing is started when the interrupt is enabled in S25. On the other hand, if the power-off confirmation flag is turned on in S23, that is, if a power-off has occurred, the process proceeds to S26 to execute the power-off process described below.

  Next, as power-off processing (S26 to S32), first, clear word 2 (“AAH”) is set to restart the watchdog timer (S26). Next, it is determined whether or not the content of the power-off information flag is power-on normal data (S27). If it is power-on normal information (S27: Yes), power-off normal data is set in the power-off information flag (S28). On the other hand, if the power-on normal information is not found (S27: No), the power-off abnormality data is set in the power-off information flag (S29), and the process proceeds to S32.

  Next, a checksum is calculated for a predetermined area (excluding the checksum area) of the RAM 101C (S30). Then, a complement for the checksum data is calculated, and the result value of this complement is set in the checksum area of the RAM 101C (S31). Subsequently, the access prohibition setting of the RAM 101C is set (S32), and the process is looped until the power is turned off.

<Timer interrupt processing>
Next, timer interrupt processing of the main control board 100 will be described. This timer interrupt process is started by a clock pulse every predetermined time (4 ms) from the CTC circuit 101F, and is executed by interrupting the main process on the main control side. In addition, as the terms used below, the terms “condition device” and “actual accessory continuous actuating device” mean a conceptual control device, and “condition device” means a big hit in a special symbol game. The “actual accessory continuous actuating device” is capable of operating the special electric accessory 642 continuously a plurality of times.

  First, when this timer interrupt occurs, the contents of the register in the CPU 101A are saved in the stack area of the RAM 101C, and then an interrupt operation condition is set (S51).

  Next, a clear word 2 (“AAH”) is set to restart the watchdog timer (S52). At this time, the clear word 1 and the clear word 2 are sequentially written in the WDT clear register of the CPU 101A within a preset time-out period, whereby the watchdog timer is cleared and restarted. That is, when the CPU 101A is executing the program normally, the clear words 1 and 2 are periodically set, so that the watchdog timer is cleared and restarted before time-out. On the other hand, when the watchdog timer times out, a user reset occurs.

  Next, input processing is executed (S53). In this input process, information of switches other than the RAM clear switch 401 is read as various switches connected to the main control board 100. That is, input information such as the first start port switch 611, the second start port switch 621, the operation gate switch 631, the big prize port switch 641, the door opening switch, the frame opening switch, the back set opening switch, the magnetic sensor, the radio wave sensor, etc. Is read, and after the state is determined, the detection information is stored. The door opening switch is a means for detecting whether or not the glass frame is open, the frame opening switch is a means for detecting whether or not the front frame is open, and the back set opening switch is for opening the back set panel. It is a detection means of whether or not. Further, the magnetic sensor and the radio wave sensor are detection means for detecting a so-called goto action.

  Next, various random number update processes are executed (S54). In these various random number update processes, the normal symbol variation pattern random number and the special symbol variation pattern random number are updated. As for the normal symbol variation pattern random number, 1 is added to the numerical value of the random number counter, and when the numerical value exceeds the maximum value, it is returned to “0” which is the minimum value. On the other hand, for the special symbol variation pattern random number, a predetermined value (for example, 3511) is subtracted from the previous random number. When the subtraction result is less than 0, a predetermined value (for example, 50000) is added to the subtraction result.

  Next, initial value update type random number update processing is executed (S55). In this initial value update type random number update process, the random numbers per ordinary symbol, the soft random numbers per special symbol, and the symbol random numbers per special symbol are updated. Specifically, 1 is added to the numerical value of each random number counter, and when the numerical value exceeds the maximum value, it is returned to “0” which is the minimum value. Further, when the counter value makes one round, the corresponding initial value random number is set as the initial value.

  Next, an initial value random number update process is executed (S56). In this initial value random number update process, the initial value random number per normal symbol, the soft initial value random number per special symbol, and the symbol initial value random number per special symbol are updated. Specifically, 1 is added to the numerical value of each random number counter, and when the numerical value exceeds the maximum value, it is returned to “0” which is the minimum value.

  Next, timer subtraction processing is executed (S57). In this timer subtraction process, the values of various timers used for game operation control of pachinko gaming machines are subtracted and updated. For example, the values of various timers are subtracted by an interrupt cycle (4 ms in this embodiment). The various timers include special symbol game timers for managing the time (variation time, fixed display time) related to the special symbol display devices 71 and 72.

  Next, a second start port effective period setting process is executed (S58). In the second starting port effective period setting process, the winning effective period and the winning invalid period of the second starting port 62 are determined, and the effective period data or invalid period data of the second starting port 62 is set as the determination result.

  Next, a winning monitoring process is executed (S59). In this winning monitoring process, a game ball switch passage test is performed based on the detection information of the first starting port switch 611, the second starting port switch 621, the operation gate switch 631, and the big winning port switch 641 in the input process (S53). As a result, when it is determined that the game ball has passed each switch, the number of prize balls is stored and a request for sending out a payout control command is made.

  Next, a prize ball control process is executed (S60). In this prize ball control process, a payout control command is transmitted to the payout control board to instruct the number of prize balls corresponding to the type of winning prize, and the received data from the payout control board is monitored and the payout control board 300 is connected. Perform communication inspection.

  Next, normal symbol operation gate monitoring processing is executed (S61). In this normal symbol operation gate monitoring process, the passage of the game ball to the operation gate 63 is monitored, and when it is determined that the game ball has passed through the operation gate 63, a random number related to the normal symbol lottery is acquired as the operation holding ball information. In addition to updating the number of suspended balls for a maximum of 4 balls, random numbers related to normal symbol lottery are stored.

  Next, normal symbol control processing is executed (S62). In this normal symbol control process, since a series of processes related to the normal symbol display device 75 or the ordinary electric accessory 622 is performed, the normal symbol changing process, the normal symbol stop symbol displaying process, according to the value of the normal symbol game status The processing during normal electric accessory operation, the processing during normal electric accessory operation end demonstration, etc. are executed. In the normal symbol changing process, the display pattern number data of the normal symbol is created (updated) so that the normal symbol is variably displayed or fixedly displayed.

  Next, normal symbol variation start monitoring processing is executed (S63). In this normal symbol variation start monitoring process, when the normal symbol operating state is monitored and it is determined that the normal symbol variation start condition is satisfied, the normal symbol operation holding number of balls is digested by one, and the normal symbol variation is monitored. Determination of success / failure, determination of design, determination of variation pattern, setting of variation time, and the like are sequentially performed.

  Next, the start port monitoring control process is executed (S64). In this start port monitoring control process, the winnings of the game balls to the first start port 61 and the second start port 62 are monitored, and when there is a winning game ball, the number of reserved balls is updated and the special symbol lottery is concerned. Random number storage, prefetching notice effect determination, command memory number command request, etc. are performed in order.

  Next, a special symbol control process is executed (S65). In this special symbol control process, as a series of processes related to the special symbol display devices 71 and 72, according to the value of the special symbol game status, a special symbol variation start process (S420) and a special symbol variation process (S430) which will be described later in detail. ), Special symbol stop symbol display processing (S440), and the like.

  Next, a special electric accessory control process is executed (S66). In this process, when the lottery result of the special symbol is “big hit” or “small hit”, as the operation process related to the special electric accessory 642, the operation start and end setting of the special electric accessory 642, Update of the opening time and the number of times of opening the winning opening 64, the operation start setting of the probability variation function, the operation start setting of the variation time shortening function, the setting of the variation pattern selection state, the command request of the demonstration effect, etc. are executed in order.

  Next, a special winning opening valid period setting process is executed (S67). In this big winning opening effective period setting process, the winning effective period and the winning invalid period of the big winning opening 64 are determined, and the effective period data or invalid period data of the large winning opening 64 is set as the determination result.

  Next, a special symbol variation start monitoring control process is executed (S68). In this special symbol variation start monitoring control process, when there is an operation holding ball of the first special symbol or the second special symbol, the number of the holding balls is digested, and a command request for the number of stored symbols, whether the special symbol is successful or not is determined. The determination of the special symbol, the determination of the probability variation function, the determination of the time shortening function, the setting of the operation pattern of the special electric accessory, the setting of the demonstration performance time, etc. are performed in order. In the present embodiment, the special symbol variation pattern selection, variation time setting, special symbol variation start setting, and the like are performed in the special symbol variation start process (S420) in the special symbol control process (S65) described above. Executed.

  Next, an abnormality detection process is executed (S69). In this abnormality detection process, based on the input information in the input process (S53), the magnetic detection signal by the magnetic sensor, the disconnection short circuit power supply abnormality signal, the radio wave detection signal by the radio sensor, the door / frame opening signal, etc. are inspected in order. Then, it is determined whether or not the gaming machine is in an error state. If it is in an error state, a command request including the error information is made to request an error display on the effect control board.

  Next, an entrance passage time abnormality detection process is executed (S70). In this ball passing time abnormality detection process, when the ON signal of the winning detection switch is continuously detected for a predetermined time or more, the ball passing time abnormality is set, and a request for an effect control command including the error information is made. And requesting output of a security signal for output to an external terminal. It should be noted that this ball passing time abnormality includes switch failure, game ball clogging, thread hanging goto, and the like.

  Next, a game state display process is executed (S71). In this gaming state display process, display data such as the number of times that the special electric accessory is continuously operated (the number of specified rounds), the number of balls for which the normal symbol and the special symbol are activated, and the like are created. Moreover, display data for displaying the information on the error state detected in the abnormality detection process on the status indicator lamp of the main control board 100 is created.

  Next, a handle state signal inspection process is executed (S72). In this handle state signal inspection process, the touch state of the firing handle 12 is monitored based on the detection information from the touch sensor of the firing handle 12, and an effect control command (handle state effect command) is issued based on the monitoring result. Generate.

  Next, an LED output process is executed (S73). In this LED output process, the special symbol control process (S65), in order to display special symbols and normal symbols, display the number of reserved balls, the number of times that the special electric accessory is operated continuously, display an error, etc. The display data created in the abnormality detection process (S69), the game state display process (S71), etc. is used as the first special symbol display device 71, the second special symbol display device 72, the normal symbol display device 75, and the first special symbol hold. In addition to outputting to the lamp 73, the second special figure holding lamp 74, the universal figure holding lamp 76, the status display lamp of the main control board 100, the display in these various display devices is initialized.

  Next, a firing control signal output process is executed (S74). In this firing control signal output process, when no communication abnormality with the payout control board 300 or disconnection short circuit power supply abnormality is detected, a fire permission signal is output to the payout control board 300, and the launch of the game ball is permitted. To do. On the other hand, when an abnormality in communication with the payout control board 300 or an abnormality in the short circuit power supply is detected, a firing prohibition signal is output to the payout control board 300, and the launch of the game ball is prohibited.

  Next, a test signal output process is executed (S75). In this test signal output process, various test signals indicating the operating state of the gaming machine are created and output to an external testing device in a performance confirmation test for determining whether or not the gaming machine is appropriate.

Next, solenoid output processing is executed (S76).
In this solenoid output process, in order to operate the ordinary electric accessory 622 and the special electric accessory 642, the normal electric accessory 622 and the special electric accessory control 642 are operated based on the control data acquired in the normal symbol control process (S62) and the special electric accessory control process (S66). An excitation signal is output to the electric combination solenoid 623 and the special electric combination solenoid 643.

  Next, an effect control command transmission process is executed (S77). In this effect control command transmission process, the command specified by the pointer is read from the commands stored in the command storage area (ring buffer) of the main information storage means 180 in the above process, and this command is read by the sub control board. 200.

  Next, external information output processing is executed (S78). In the external information output process, the operating state information of the gaming machine is output as external information to an external device such as a hall computer via the external terminal board. The external information includes, for example, information that the special symbol has been suspended (external information 1), information that a game ball has won at the start (external information 2), information that a big or small hit has occurred (external information 3), special Information on the occurrence of the game (external information 4) is included. In addition, when the RAM is initialized, in the case of magnetic sensor abnormality, disconnection short circuit power supply abnormality, abnormality sensor detection (such as an abnormal ball passing time), the security signal is sent to the hall computer via the external terminal board. Output to an external device.

  Next, the contents of the saved register are restored, and the CPU 101A is set to an interrupt enabled state (S79). As a result, the timer interrupt process is terminated, the process returns to the main control side main process, and the main control side main process is executed until the next timer interrupt occurs.

  If the main control board 100 detects a power-off (a decrease in supply voltage based on a predetermined threshold) during the main control-side main process or interrupt process, a non-maskable interrupt is generated and the power-off confirmation flag is turned on. To do. Then, after returning to the original process, the above-described power-off process (S26 to S32) is executed.

≪Special design game processing≫
Next, a series of processes related to the special symbol game in the timer interrupt process will be described. The process related to the special symbol game includes the above-described start port monitoring control process (S64), special symbol control process (S65), special electric accessory control process (S66), special symbol variation start monitoring control process (S68), etc. Is applicable. Here, in order to facilitate the understanding of the explanation, in accordance with the flow of the game, the start port monitoring control process (S64), the special symbol variation start monitoring control process (S68), the special symbol control process (S65), the special electric role The object control process (S66) will be described in this order.

(Start-up port monitoring control process)
First, the start port monitoring control process (S64) will be described. FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing details of the start port monitoring control process (S64).

  First, it is determined whether or not a game winning at the first start port 61 has been detected (S201). When the winning to the first start port 61 is detected (S201: YES), it is determined whether or not the number of the operation reserved balls of the first special symbol is less than the upper limit number of 4 (S202).

  When the number of reserved balls for the first special symbol is less than 4 (S202: YES), as a lottery random value for the first special symbol game, a random value per special symbol, a random symbol value per special symbol, a special symbol Fluctuation pattern random values are acquired, and each random value is stored in the first special symbol reservation storage area (hold n storage area) of the main information storage means 180 according to the order of entry (S203). Specifically, as a random number value per special symbol, the special symbol validity soft random number acquired from the random number counter that generates random numbers in software is added to the built-in random number acquired from the random number generating circuit that generates random numbers in hardware. This is stored in the hit random number buffer in the reserved n storage area. Also, each random number value obtained from a random number counter that generates a random number by software is stored in the per symbol random number buffer and the variation pattern random number buffer in the reserved n storage area as a special symbol random number value and a special symbol variation pattern random value. To do.

  Then, as an update of the number of reserved balls for operation of the first special symbol, the value of the first special symbol reserved ball number counter is incremented by 1 (S204), and the winning check of the first start port 61 is completed. On the other hand, when the winning to the first start port 61 is not detected (S201: NO), or when the number of the operation reserved balls of the first special symbol is 4 or more (S202: NO), S203 and S204 are performed. skip.

  Subsequently, it is determined whether or not a game winning in the second starting port 62 has been detected (S205). When a winning at the second starting port 62 is detected (S205: YES), it is determined whether or not the number of operation reserved balls of the second special symbol is less than the upper limit number of 4 (S206).

  When the number of reserved balls in the second special symbol is less than 4 (S206: YES), a random number per special symbol, a random symbol value per special symbol, a special symbol, as a lottery random value related to the second special symbol game Fluctuation pattern random values are acquired, and each random value is stored in the second special symbol reservation storage area (hold n storage area) of the main information storage means 180 according to the order of entry (S207). Specifically, as a random number value per special symbol, the special symbol validity soft random number acquired from the random number counter that generates random numbers in software is added to the built-in random number acquired from the random number generating circuit that generates random numbers in hardware. This is stored in the hit random number buffer in the reserved n storage area. Also, each random number value obtained from a random number counter that generates a random number by software is stored in the per symbol random number buffer and the variation pattern random number buffer in the reserved n storage area as a special symbol random number value and a special symbol variation pattern random value. To do.

  Then, as the update of the number of reserved balls for operation of the second special symbol, the value of the second special symbol reserved ball number counter is incremented by 1 (S208), and the winning check at the second start port 62 is finished. On the other hand, when the winning to the second starting port 62 is not detected (S205: NO), or when the number of the operation reserved balls of the second special symbol is 4 or more (S206: NO), S207 and S208 are performed. skip.

  Subsequently, it is determined whether or not the number of reserved balls for the first special symbol or the second special symbol has been updated (S209). If there is an update of the number of suspended balls (S209: YES), the state of the gaming machine is confirmed, and it is determined whether or not it is a pre-determination timing of a pre-reading notice effect (S210).

  When it is a prior determination timing (S210: YES), a random number value per special symbol is read from the random number buffer in the reserved n storage area, and a prior determination of the success / failure lottery is performed (S211). Then, a prior determination command including information on the determination result (notice number) is generated and stored in the command storage area of the main information storage unit 180 (S212).

  Further, a symbol random value per special symbol is read from the symbol random number buffer in the reserved n storage area, and a symbol lottery determination is made in advance (S213). Then, a prior determination command including information on the determination result (notice number) is generated and stored in the command storage area of the main information storage unit 180 (S214). The notice number is information corresponding to the type of symbol group (big hit type).

  Further, the special symbol variation pattern random number value is read from the variation pattern random number buffer in the reserved n storage area, and the variation pattern lottery is determined in advance (S215). Then, a prior determination command including information on the determination result (notice number) is generated and stored in the command storage area of the main information storage unit 180 (S216).

  Then, a symbol memory number command including information on the number of suspended balls for the first special symbol and the second special symbol is generated and stored in the command storage area of the main information storage means 180 (S217).

(Special symbol variation start monitoring control process)
Next, the special symbol variation start monitoring control process (S68) will be described. FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing details of the special symbol fluctuation start monitoring control process (S68).

  In this special symbol fluctuation monitoring and monitoring process (S68), a special symbol fluctuation start monitoring process (S310) is performed on the special symbol side satisfying the fluctuation start condition among the first special symbol and the second special symbol. ). When both the first special symbol and the second special symbol satisfy the variation start condition, the process on the second special symbol side is preferentially executed as described above.

  First, it is determined whether a big hit or a small hit is being made (S301). Subsequently, whether both the first special symbol and the second special symbol are waiting for change, that is, whether the first special symbol game status and the second special symbol game status are both “00H (waiting for change)”. It is determined whether or not (S302).

  Subsequently, it is determined whether or not the number of retained balls in the second special symbol is “0” (S303). If the number of retained balls is not “0” (S303: NO), the second special symbol is determined. It is assumed that the symbol variation start condition is satisfied, and after setting the address of the second special symbol variation start monitoring table (addresses of various tables used in the subsequent processing and the address of the RAM storage area) (S304) Then, the process proceeds to the special symbol fluctuation start monitoring process (S310) on the second special symbol side. That is, in the present embodiment, when there is an operation holding ball of the second special symbol, the operation holding ball of the second special symbol is given priority regardless of the presence or absence of the operation holding ball of the first special symbol. Digested.

  On the other hand, when the number of reserved balls for operation of the second special symbol is “0” (S303: YES), it is determined whether or not the number of reserved balls for operation of the first special symbol is “0” (S305). . If the number of reserved balls is not “0” (S305: NO), it is assumed that the first special symbol variation start condition is satisfied, and the address of the first special symbol variation start monitoring table (hereinafter referred to as “the first special symbol variation start monitoring table”). After setting the addresses of the various tables used in the process and the address of the RAM storage area (S306), the process proceeds to the special symbol variation start monitoring process (S310) on the first special symbol side (S310).

  Note that if the variation start conditions of the first special symbol and the second special symbol are not satisfied (S301: YES, S302: NO, S305: YES), the special symbol variation start monitoring process (S310) is skipped. .

(Special symbol fluctuation start monitoring process)
Next, the special symbol variation start monitoring process (S310) will be described. FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing details of the special symbol variation start monitoring process (S310).

  In the special symbol fluctuation start monitoring process (S310), the first special symbol fluctuation start monitoring table or the second special symbol fluctuation start monitoring table set in S304 or S306 described above is referred to The special symbol side process will be executed, but the processing method is the same on the first special symbol side and the second special symbol side, so the first special symbol side process is the exception unless otherwise specified. Whether or not there is a process on the second special symbol side will be described as a group without distinction.

  First, 1 is subtracted from the number of reserved balls on the special symbol side that is the subject of the current fluctuation start (S311). Then, a symbol memory number command including information on the number of suspended balls of the first special symbol and the second special symbol after the subtraction is generated and stored in the command storage area of the main information storage means 180 (S312).

  Subsequently, the special symbol holding storage area on the side of the special symbol subject to the start of the current change is accessed, and the random number value per special symbol and the special symbol stored in the first reserved storage area (holding 1 storage area) In order to sequentially read the design random number value and the special design variation pattern random value, and use these random number values for the special symbol success / failure determination process (S320), the symbol determination process (S330), and the variation pattern selection process (S423) described later, Transfer to the special symbol success / failure determination area, special symbol determination area, and special symbol variation pattern determination area of the main information storage means 180 (S313). Further, as the update of the hold storage area, the hold ball information stored in the hold 2 storage area to the hold 4 storage area is shifted to the lower hold storage area, and the hold 4 storage area is cleared to zero (S314).

(Special symbol determination process)
Subsequently, a special symbol success / failure determination process is executed (S320). Here, FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing details of the special symbol success / failure determination processing (S320).

  In the special symbol success / failure determination process (S320), first, a special symbol success / failure lottery table is acquired (S321). At this time, when the gaming state is in a probable change state, a high-probability determination lottery table is acquired, and when the gaming state is in a normal state (non-probability change state), a low-probability determination lottery table is acquired. Next, a random value per special symbol is read from the special symbol success / failure determination area of the main information storage unit 180 (S322). Then, referring to the special symbol success / failure lottery table, the special symbol success / failure determination is executed based on the random number per special symbol (S323).

  Subsequently, a value corresponding to the determination result is stored in the special symbol determination flag of the main information storage unit 180 (S324). Specifically, in the special symbol determination flag, “55H” as the big hit data when the determination result is big hit, “33H” as the big hit data when small hit, “33H” as the small hit data when small, and “ 00H "is stored.

(Design determination processing)
Subsequently, returning to FIG. 16, a symbol determination process is executed (S330). Here, FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing details of the symbol determination process (S330).

  In the symbol determination process (S330), first, a special symbol stop symbol is determined according to the determination result (S331). Specifically, when the result of the first special symbol success / failure determination is a big hit, the symbol special symbol per symbol read out from the special symbol determination area of the main information storage means 180 is referred to the first special symbol per symbol table. Based on the numerical value, any one of the jackpot symbols “1” to “13” is determined as the stop symbol of the first special symbol. On the other hand, if the result of the determination of whether or not the second special symbol is successful is a big hit, refer to the symbol table per second special symbol and based on the random number value per special symbol read from the special symbol determination area of the main information storage means 180. Then, one of the jackpot symbols “14” to “26” is determined as the stop symbol of the second special symbol.

  Also, when the result of the first special symbol's success / failure determination is a small hit, the small special symbol “27” is used as the stop symbol of the first special symbol, and the result of the second special symbol's determination is a small hit Determines the small hit symbol “28” as the stop symbol of the second special symbol. When the result of the determination on whether or not the first special symbol or the second special symbol is determined to be out of date, the off symbol “1” is determined as the stop symbol. Then, the stop symbol number determined this time is stored in the stop symbol storage area of the main information storage means 180 (S332).

  Subsequently, the type of symbol group is determined as the big hit type or small hit type of the special symbol (S333). Specifically, when the result of the first special symbol determination is a big hit, the special symbol read from the special symbol determination area of the main information storage unit 180 with reference to the first special symbol per symbol table One of the symbol groups A to E is determined based on the winning symbol random number value. On the other hand, if the determination result of the second special symbol is a big hit, the special symbol per symbol read out from the special symbol determination area of the main information storage means 180 with reference to the second special symbol per symbol table. Based on the numerical value, one of the symbol groups F to J is determined.

  Further, the symbol group K is determined when the determination result of the first special symbol is a small hit, and the symbol group L is determined when the determination result of the second special symbol is a small hit. Then, the symbol group type determined this time is stored in the symbol group storage area of the main information storage means 180 (S334).

  Subsequently, the character effect number of the special symbol is determined (S335). Specifically, the type of symbol group determined in S333 (12 patterns of symbol groups A to L) and the operation state of the probability variation function of the special symbol and the normal symbol (special symbol on / off of special symbol) Based on a combination of (4 patterns of normal symbol probability variation ON / normal symbol probability variation OFF), one of 48 character effect numbers “1” to “48” is determined. If the result of the determination is wrong, the character effect number “0” is determined. Then, the character effect numbers “0” to “48” determined this time are stored in the variation added symbol information storage area of the main information storage unit 180 as variation added symbol information (S336).

  Subsequently, returning to FIG. 16, it is determined whether or not the result of the determination is a small hit (S341), and it is determined whether or not the result of the determination is a big hit (S342). If the result of the determination is a small hit (S341: YES), the process proceeds to S347, and if the result of the determination is out of order (S341: NO, S342: NO), the process proceeds to S349.

  On the other hand, if the determination result is a big hit (S341: NO, S342: YES), the probability variation function is used as the gaming state after the special game based on the type of symbol group (big hit type) determined in S333. It is determined whether or not to operate (S343). That is, if the type of symbol group as a jackpot type indicates a specific symbol, it is decided to provide a probability variation function, and if the type of symbol group indicates a normal symbol, the probability variation Decide not to give the function. This determination result is stored in the probability variation determination flag of the main information storage unit 180.

  Further, based on the symbol group type (big hit type) determined in S333, the number of times of operation of the variable time shortening function is determined as the gaming state after the special game (S344), and the number of times of operation in the easy entry state is determined. (S345).

  Subsequently, the operation pattern of the special electric accessory 642 is set based on the type (big hit type) of the symbol group determined in S333 (S346). Specifically, as the operation pattern of the special electric accessory 642, the specified number of round games (16 rounds, 12 rounds, 2 rounds in this example), the maximum opening time of the big prize opening 64 (30 in this example) Seconds, 0.05 seconds).

  Next, a variation pattern selection state after the end of the special game or after the end of the small hit game is set based on the type of the symbol group (big hit type / small hit type) determined in S333 and the current game state (S347).

  Subsequently, based on the type of symbol group (big hit type / small hit type) determined in S333, the demonstration performance time (hit start demo time and hit end demo time) of the special game or the small hit game is set (S348). .

  Next, the special symbol success / failure determination region and the special symbol / symbol determination region of the main information storage unit 180 used in the above-described special symbol success / failure determination processing (S320) and symbol determination processing (S330) are cleared (S349). Then, the special symbol game status on the special symbol side to be changed this time is changed from “00H (standby)” to “01H (change start)” (S350).

(Special symbol control processing)
Next, the special symbol control process (S65) will be described. FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing details of the special symbol control process (S65).

  First, it is determined whether or not the special electric accessory 642 is inactive, that is, whether or not the special electric accessory game status is “00H (waiting for winning)” (S401). Subsequently, when the special electric accessory 642 is not operating (S401: YES), it is determined whether or not the second special symbol game status is "00H (standby)" (S402).

  When the second special symbol game status is not “00H (standby)” (S402: YES), the second special symbol control table (used in the subsequent processing) is executed to execute the processing related to the second special symbol. The addresses of the various tables and the addresses of the RAM storage areas are set (S403), and the process proceeds to the special symbol control general-purpose process (S410). On the other hand, when the second special symbol game status is “00H (standby)” (S402: NO), the first special symbol control table (in the subsequent processing) is executed to execute the process related to the first special symbol. The addresses of various tables to be used and the addresses of the RAM storage areas are set (S404), and the process proceeds to the special symbol control general-purpose process (S410).

  In the special symbol control general-purpose process (S410) described below, the first special symbol control table or the second special symbol control table set in S403 or S404 described above is used, and the special subject to change this time is used. The process on the symbol side will be executed, but the processing method is the same on the first special symbol side and the second special symbol side, so is it the process on the first special symbol side unless otherwise specified? A description will be given collectively without distinguishing whether the processing is on the second special symbol side.

(Special design control general-purpose processing)
Subsequently, special symbol control general-purpose processing is executed (S410). Here, FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing details of the special symbol control general-purpose process (S410).

  In this special symbol control general-purpose processing (S410), branch processing (S411 to S414) is executed to shift to processing according to the special symbol game status values ("01H", "02H", "03H"). First, it is determined whether or not the special symbol game status on the special symbol side subject to the current variation is not 0 (S411). If the special symbol game status is not “00H” (S411: YES), it is determined whether or not the special symbol game status is “01H (change start)” (S412). If the special symbol game status is “01H” (S412: YES), the process proceeds to a special symbol variation start process (S420). In the case of NO in S412, it is determined whether or not the special symbol game status is “02H (changed)” (S413). When the special symbol game status is “02H” (S413: YES), the process proceeds to the special symbol changing process (S430). If NO in S413, it is determined whether or not the special symbol game status is "03H (stopped symbol display)" (S414). If the special symbol game status is “03H” (S414: YES), the process proceeds to a special symbol stop symbol display process (S440).

(Special symbol variation start processing)
Next, the special symbol variation start process (S420) will be described. FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing details of the special symbol variation start process (S420).

  First, a special symbol variation pattern table is acquired (S421). Specifically, when the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is a big hit or a small hit, one of the variation pattern tables is selected from a plurality of types of variation pattern tables based on the variation pattern selection state and the type of the symbol group. select. On the other hand, when the result of the lottery determination is out of place, one of the variation pattern tables is selected from among a plurality of types of variation pattern tables based on the variation pattern selection state and the number of operation suspension balls.

  Subsequently, a special symbol variation pattern random value is read from the special symbol variation pattern determination area of the main information storage unit 180 (S422). Then, with reference to the special symbol variation pattern table, one of a plurality of types of variation patterns is selected based on the special symbol variation pattern random value (S423).

  Next, a variation time corresponding to the variation pattern selected this time is set (S424). As a special symbol variation start setting, the variation time is stored in the special symbol game timer of the symbol display control means 165 (S425), and a variation start command to the sub-control board 200 is generated (S426). As variation start commands, communication inspection command 1, communication inspection command 2, variation added symbol information designation command, variation pattern designation command to start inspection and production display of communication lines between main control board 100 and sub control board 200 The character effect number designation command is created in order and stored in the command storage area of the main information storage means 180.

  In the present embodiment, every time a timer interrupt process occurs, one command, communication check command 1, communication check command 2, variation added symbol information designation command, variation pattern designation command, character effect number designation command, in this order: It is transmitted to the sub-control board 200 side. Therefore, in the timer interrupt process in which the special symbol variation start process (S420) is executed, a variation added symbol information designation command and a variation pattern are transmitted to the sub control board 200 in the subsequent effect control command transmission process (S77). The designation command and the character effect number designation command are not transmitted. That is, at the stage where the effect control command transmission process (S77) is executed in the interrupt process, at least the five effect control commands are stored in the command storage area of the main information storage unit 180, so that the variable added symbol information The communication inspection command 1 and the communication inspection command 2 stored in the command storage area prior to the designation command, the variation pattern designation command, and the character production number designation command are transmitted prior to the three production control commands. Because it becomes. Furthermore, depending on the development of the game, there is a possibility that other effect control commands are stored in the command storage area prior to the communication inspection 1 command. For this reason, on the configuration in which the variation of the decorative symbol is started upon receipt of these variation start commands (the above five commands), there is a time lag between the timing of starting the variation of the special symbol and the timing of starting the variation of the decorative symbol. There is a possibility (decoration start of decorative design may be delayed). On the other hand, the sub-control board 200 side has a timer for managing the variation time of the decoration symbol, and starts the timer (the timer in which the variation time is set) at the start of the variation of the decoration symbol. The display of the decorative symbol is stopped when the time-out occurs, and the decorative symbol (stop symbol) is fixedly displayed when the variable stop command is received from the main control board 100. Depending on the development, there may be a case where a change stop command is transmitted from the main control board 100 before the expected stop time of the decorative symbols. That is, due to the structure of the command storage area (ring buffer), when the command storage state at the start of special symbol variation is heavy (the number of commands stored is large), as described above, the transmission timing of the variation start command Because of this, there is a possibility that the decorative symbol variation display will start later than the special symbol variation start, while the command storage state when the special symbol variation stop is light (command storage In the case of a small number), the delay in the transmission timing of the change stop command is small, so the change stop command is sent before the expected change stop time of the decorative symbol (before the timeout), and the original change of the decorative symbol There is a possibility that the stop display (determined display) may occur without reaching the time.

  Subsequently, the contents of the special symbol variation pattern determination area of the main information storage unit 180 used for determining the variation pattern are cleared (S427). Then, the special symbol game status is changed from “01H (change start)” to “02H (change)” (S428).

(Special symbol change processing)
Next, the special symbol variation processing (S430) will be described. FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing details of the special symbol changing process (S430).

  First, a special symbol display pattern number switching process is executed in order to perform a special symbol variable display (S431). In this display pattern number switching process (S431), special pattern display pattern number data is generated for each predetermined switching time. The display pattern number data is output to the first special symbol display device 71 or the second special symbol display device 72 in the LED output process (S73) in order to display the variable special symbols in a variable manner or in a definite manner.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the special symbol game timer has reached "0 (timeout)", that is, whether or not the special symbol variation time has ended (S432). When the variation time of the special symbol is completed (S432: YES), a special symbol stop symbol to be fixedly displayed on the first special symbol display device 71 or the second special symbol display device 72 is set (S433).

  Subsequently, a change stop command for instructing the sub-control board 200 to confirm and display the decorative symbol is generated and stored in the command storage area of the main information storage unit 180 (S434).

  Subsequently, “500 (ms)” is stored in the special symbol game timer as a fixed display time (S435). Note that the “determined display time” is a time for definitely stopping and displaying the stopped symbol when the special symbol is suspended.

  Then, the special symbol game status is changed from “02H (fluctuating)” to “03H (stopping symbol display)” (S436).

(Special symbol stop symbol display processing)
Next, the special symbol stop symbol display processing (S440) will be described. FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing details of the special symbol stop symbol display processing (S440).

  First, it is determined whether or not the special symbol game timer has become “0 (timeout)”, that is, whether or not the fixed display time of the special symbol (stop symbol) has ended (S441).

  When the special symbol fixed display time is over (S441: YES), the special symbol game status is changed from "03H (stopped symbol display)" to "00H (standby)" (S442). In addition, when the fixed display time of the special symbol is ended, the clear data is output to the first special symbol display device 71 or the second special symbol display device 72 in the LED output process (S73), and the special symbol display device. The display of 71 and 72 is initialized (returns to the all-off state).

  Subsequently, it is determined whether or not the winning / failing determination data stored in the special symbol determination flag of the main information storage means 180 is the big hit data “55H” (S443).

  When the hit / fail judgment data is jackpot data (S443: YES), the special symbol probability variation function is deactivated (S444), the special symbol variation time shortening function is deactivated (S445), and the electric chew support function is activated. Stop (S446) is performed in order. Specifically, “00H (not actuated)” is set in the special symbol mode flag, and “00H” is set in the time reduction number counter and the easy-to-enter number counter to clear to zero.

  Next, as a special game hit start demonstration setting process, a hit start demonstration display time is set, and an effect control command for instructing the start of the hit start demonstration effect is generated (S447).

  Subsequently, the number of executions of the variation pattern selection state (variation pattern selection state number counter) is cleared to zero (S448). Also, the special electric accessory game status is changed from “00H (waiting for winning)” to “01H (special game)” (S449). Then, “00H” is set to clear the contents of the special symbol determination flag (S450).

  On the other hand, when the determination data is not big hit data (S443: NO), it is determined whether or not the special symbol variation time reduction function is in operation (S451). Here, when the fluctuation time shortening function is in operation (S451: YES), it is determined whether or not the special symbol has changed a predetermined number of times by referring to the special symbol short time counter (see FIG. S452).

  If the special symbol has changed a predetermined number of times (S452: YES), the special symbol change time reduction function is deactivated (S453). On the other hand, if the special symbol has not changed the specified number of times, or if the fluctuation time reduction function is activated until the next big hit occurs because the probability fluctuation function is activated (S452: NO), S453 is set. Skip to step S454.

  Subsequently, it is determined whether or not the electric chew support function is in operation (S454). When the electric chew support function is in operation (S454: YES), it is determined with reference to the electric support number counter whether or not the special symbol has changed by a predetermined number of times set in advance (S455). When the special symbol fluctuates a specified number of times (S455: YES), the electric chew support function is deactivated (S456). On the other hand, if the special symbol has not changed the specified number of times, or if the electric chew support function is activated until the next jackpot occurs because the probability variation function is activated (S455: NO), S456 is set. Skip to step S457.

  Next, the variation pattern selection state is updated (S457). Specifically, referring to the variation pattern selection state number counter, when the variation pattern selection state is executed a predetermined number of times set in advance, the state is switched to the next defined variation pattern selection state.

  Subsequently, it is determined whether or not the small hit data “33H” is stored in the special symbol determination flag (S458). When the small hit data is stored (S458: YES), as the hit start demo setting process of the small hit game, the hit start demo display time is set and the effect control command for instructing the start of the hit start demo effect is given. Is generated (S459). Subsequently, the special electric accessory game status is changed from “00H (waiting for winning)” to “02H (small winning game)” (S460). Then, “00H” is set to clear the contents of the special symbol determination flag (S461).

  On the other hand, when the small symbol data “33H” is not stored in the special symbol determination flag (S458: NO), that is, when the shift data “00H” is stored in the special symbol determination flag, S460 and S461. To skip. Note that when the special symbol determination flag is outlier data, the process of clearing the contents of the flag was not performed because “00H” was originally stored as outlier data.

(Special electric accessory control processing)
Next, the special electric accessory control process (S66) will be described. FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing details of the electric accessory control process (S66).

  First, it is determined whether or not the special electric accessory game status is “01H (special game)” (S501). If the special electric accessory game status is “01H” (S501: YES), the special game process is executed in the subsequent processes. In this special game process, first, it is determined whether or not the special electric accessory 642 is operating (S502). When the special electric accessory 642 is not operating (S502: NO), it is determined whether or not it is the operation start time of the special electric accessory 642 (S503). The operation start time of the special electric accessory 642 is a timing at which the operation of the special electric accessory 642 is started in each round game.

  When it is the operation start time of the special electric accessory 642 (S503: YES), the operation of the special electric accessory 642 is started (S504), and the processing during the operation of the special electric accessory 642 is performed as S505 to S509. Execute the process.

  As a process during the operation of the special electric accessory 642, it is determined whether or not the maximum number of game balls has been won in the big prize opening 64 (S505), and the operation time (opening time) of the special electric accessory 642 is determined. It is determined whether or not it has elapsed (S506). At this time, when the game ball has won the maximum winning number 64 in the grand prize opening 64 (S505: YES) or when the operation time of the special electric accessory 642 has elapsed (S506: YES), the special electric accessory 642 The operation is stopped (S507). Then, it is determined whether or not the number of continuous operations of the special electric accessory 642 has reached a predetermined number of rounds (S508). If the number of continuous operations has not reached the specified number of rounds (S508: NO), the number of continuous operations of the special electric accessory 642 is incremented by 1 (S509).

  On the other hand, if the number of continuous operations of the special electric accessory 642 has reached the specified number of rounds (S508: YES), the process proceeds to S510, and the winning end demonstration display time is set as the winning end demonstration setting process for the special game. At the same time, an effect control command for instructing the start of the hit end demonstration effect is generated (S510).

  Subsequently, the variable time reduction number information set in S344 is stored in the time reduction number counter (S511). Further, the easy entry state number information set in S345 is stored in the easy entry state number counter (S512).

  Subsequently, with reference to the content of the probability variation determination flag set in S343, it is determined whether or not the operation of the condition device is an operation based on a specific symbol (so-called probability variation symbol) (S513). When the condition device is activated by a specific symbol (S513: YES), the operation time data “7FH” is stored in the probability variation counter of the main information storage means 180, and the special symbol probability variation function is activated. (S514). On the other hand, when the condition device is not operated by the specific symbol (S513: NO), the non-operating data “00H” is stored in the probability variation counter, and S514 is skipped.

  Subsequently, it is determined whether or not the fluctuation time reduction number information stored in the time reduction number counter is the fluctuation time reduction function operation data (data other than “00H”) (S515). If it is the variation time shortening function operation data (S515: YES), the operation of the special symbol variation time shortening function is started (S516). On the other hand, when it is not the fluctuation time shortening function operation data (S515: NO), S516 is skipped.

  Subsequently, it is determined whether or not the easy entry state number information stored in the easy entry state number counter is electric Chu support function operation data (data other than “00H”) (S517). If it is the electric chew support function operation data (S517: YES), the operation of the electric chew support function is started (S518 to S520). That is, the operation start of the normal symbol probability variation function (S518), the operation start of the normal symbol variation time shortening function (S519), and the operation start of the normal electric accessory 622 open extension function (S520) are sequentially executed. On the other hand, if it is not the electric Chu support function operation data, S518 to S520 are skipped.

  Next, the variation pattern selection state determined in S347 is switched to (S521). Then, the special electric accessory game status is changed from “01H (special game)” to “00H (waiting for winning)” (S522).

  On the other hand, when the special electric accessory game status is not “01H (special game)” (S501: NO), the process proceeds to S530 and whether the special electric accessory game status is “02H (small hit game)”. It is determined whether or not (S530). When the special electric accessory game status is “02H” (S530: YES), the small hit game processing is executed in the subsequent processing.

  In the small hit game processing, first, it is determined whether or not the special electric accessory 642 is operating (S531). When the special electric accessory 642 is not operating (S531: NO), the operation of the special electric accessory 642 is started (S532). On the other hand, when the special electric accessory 642 is operating (S531: YES), S532 is skipped.

  Subsequently, as a process during the operation of the special electric accessory 642, it is determined whether or not the maximum number of game balls has been won in the big prize opening 64 (S533), and the operation time (opening) of the special electric accessory 642 is determined. It is determined whether or not (time) has elapsed (S534). At this time, when the game ball has won the maximum winning number in the grand prize opening 64 (S533: YES) or when the operating time of the special electric accessory 642 has elapsed (S534: YES), the special electric accessory 642 The operation is stopped (S535).

  Subsequently, as a hit end demo setting process for the small hit game, a hit end demo display time is set and an effect control command for instructing the start of the hit end demo effect is generated (S536).

  Subsequently, the state is switched to the variation pattern selection state determined in S347 (S537). Then, the special electric accessory game status is changed from “01H (special game)” to “00H (waiting for winning)” (S538).

[Sub-control board side processing]
Next, a procedure of operation processing in the sub control board 200 will be described.

  First, the sub control board 200 determines the display content of the hold image of the effect display device 70 based on the effect control command transmitted from the main control board 100. Specifically, when a symbol storage number command is received from the main control board 100, the display is performed on the effect display device 70 based on information included in the command (the number of suspended action balls of the first special symbol and the second special symbol). The number of held images to be updated is updated. Further, when a pre-determination command is received from the main control board 100, the display content of the hold image subject to the pre-reading notice is controlled as the pre-reading notice effect process.

  Subsequently, the sub-control board 200 determines a decorative symbol, a variable effect pattern, and the like based on an effect control command transmitted from the main control board 100, and controls the variable display of the decorative symbol. Specifically, when a variation start command is received from the main control board 100, the decorative pattern stop mode, the decorative symbol variation, etc., according to the received special symbol variation addition symbol information, variation pattern, character effect number, etc. The effect pattern and the notice effect pattern are determined, and thereafter, the decorative pattern change display is started.

  On the other hand, when the sub control board 200 receives the change stop command from the main control board 100, the sub control board 200 stops the change display of the decorative design and confirms the display of the decorative design in the determined stop mode.

  Subsequently, the sub control board 200 executes a hit start demonstration effect and a hit end demonstration effect of the special game based on the effect control command transmitted from the main control board 100. Specifically, when a big hit start demonstration production command is received from the main control board 100, a big start demonstration production displayed between the start of the special game and the first opening of the big prize opening 64 is executed. Also, when a big hit end demonstration effect command is received from the main control board 100, a special game hit end demonstration effect displayed between the last closing of the big prize opening 64 and the end of the special game is executed.

  On the other hand, the sub-control board 200 executes the hit start demonstration effect and the hit end demonstration effect of the small hit game based on the contents of the effect control command transmitted from the main control board 100. Specifically, when a small hit start demonstration effect command is received from the main control board 100, the hit start demonstration effect displayed between the start of the small hit game and the opening of the big winning opening 64 is executed. Further, when a small hit end demonstration effect command is received from the main control board 100, a small hit game hit end demonstration effect displayed between the closing of the big prize opening 64 and the end of the small hit game is executed.

[Operation of pachinko machines]
Next, in order to facilitate understanding of the present embodiment, the operation of the pachinko gaming machine PM will be described. What will be described below is normal processing on the main control board 100 side in the pachinko gaming machine PM.

  In the following, for convenience of explanation, in the timer interrupt process repeatedly generated at a constant cycle (4 ms), the timer interrupt process generated at a certain time is referred to as “first interrupt process”, and 4 ms later. The next timer interrupt processing is referred to as “second interrupt processing”. Also, in this example, in order to facilitate understanding of the explanation, only the processing on one special symbol side is performed without specifying whether the processing is on the first special symbol side or the second special symbol side. I will focus on and explain.

(Normal processing)
FIG. 27 is an operation diagram for explaining the normal processing, which is a part extracted from the flowchart of the timer interrupt processing of FIG. Here, (a) in the figure shows the processing of the first interrupt, and (b) shows the processing of the second interrupt. In this example, it is assumed that the special symbol variation start condition is satisfied at the time when the processing of the first interrupt is started. That is, it is not during big hit or small hit, and the special symbol is waiting for change (special symbol game status = “00H”), and there is a situation where there is a special symbol activated ball (number of activated balls held = N).

  Under such circumstances, when the first interrupt process occurs, the process proceeds to the start port monitoring control process (S64) through the processes of S51 to S63 described above. In the start port monitoring control process (S64), if there is no game ball entering the first start port 61 or the second start port 62, the process is left as it is. Subsequently, in the special symbol control process (S65), since the special symbol is on standby, that is, the special symbol game status is "00H (standby)", the process is directly exited. Subsequently, the process proceeds to a special symbol variation start monitoring control process (S68) through a special electric accessory control process (S66) and a special winning opening effective period setting process (S67).

  In the special symbol variation start monitoring control process (S68), as a special symbol start determination, there are special symbol variation start conditions (not hitting big or small hits, waiting for special symbol variation, or holding action balls. Is determined to be established, and thereby, the number of the operation-reserved balls of the special symbol is digested by 1 (number of operation-retained balls = N−1). Then, after the special symbol success / failure determination process (S320), the symbol determination process (S330), etc. are executed, the special symbol game status is changed from “00H (standby)” to “01H (change start)” (S350). . Here, in the present embodiment, as described above, even when the operation holding balls of the first special symbol and the second special symbol are both 0, the operation holding ball is once generated when the start opening prize is received. Then, after digesting the operation holding ball, it is configured to shift to processing related to the start of fluctuation of the special symbol. Therefore, it is defined as one of the special symbol fluctuation start conditions that an operation holding ball exists in at least one of the first special symbol and the second special symbol.

  Then, after the subsequent abnormality determination process (S69) is executed, the first interrupt process is terminated, and the process returns to the main control side main process. In other words, even if it is determined in this first interrupt processing that the special symbol variation start condition is satisfied, the special symbol variation start setting is not performed, but is left to the next second interrupt processing. It is done. Until the next interrupt process (second interrupt process) occurs, the loop process of S21 to S25 in the main process on the main control side is executed.

  Subsequently, when the second interrupt process occurs, the process proceeds to the start port monitoring control process (S64) again through the processes of S51 to S63. In the start port monitorability control process (S64), if there is no game ball entering the first start port 61 or the second start port 62, the process exits as it is. Subsequently, in the special symbol control process (S65), since the special symbol game status on the special symbol side to be changed this time is “01H (change start)”, the special symbol change start process (S420) is called and executed. To do.

  In the special symbol variation start process (S420), after the special symbol variation pattern selection (S423), variation time setting (S424), variation start setting (S425, S426), etc. are executed, the special symbol game status is set to “ A transition is made from “01H (change start)” to “02H (change)” (S428). As described above, in this embodiment, the special symbol game status is changed from “00H” to “01H” in the first interrupt process, and from “01H” to “02H” in the second interrupt process. It has become. That is, in the process from the first interrupt to the second interrupt, the special symbol game status is changed by “1” for each interrupt.

  Subsequently, the process proceeds to a special symbol variation start monitoring control process (S68) through a special electric accessory control process (S66) and a special winning opening effective period setting process (S67). In the special symbol fluctuation start monitoring control process (S68), the special symbol start determination has already been made in the process of the first interrupt, and the fluctuation start condition is not satisfied.

  Next, after the subsequent abnormality determination process (S69) is executed, the second interrupt process is terminated, and the process returns to the main control side main process. Thereafter, timer interrupt processing occurs at regular intervals, and within the timer interrupt processing, special symbol changing processing (S430), special symbol stop symbol display processing (S440), etc. are sequentially executed. .

  As described above, in the present embodiment, in the timer interrupt process executed at regular intervals, it is determined that the special symbol variation start condition is satisfied based on the special symbol game status information indicating the operation state of the special symbol display device. In such a case, the process for starting the variation of the special symbol is not executed within the same interrupt process, and the process for starting the variation is performed within the next interrupt process. In other words, in the preceding timer interrupt processing, it is determined that the special symbol variation start condition is satisfied, and then the special symbol success / failure determination, symbol determination, etc. are executed. After selecting the pattern, setting the change time, etc., the special symbol change is started. For this reason, preparations for the start of fluctuations related to special symbols can be made with sufficient margin through two timer interruption processes before and after, so that the control burden on the main control board 100 can be reduced and smooth game progression can be realized. Is possible.

  Next, as an operation of the pachinko gaming machine PM, when the above-described normal processing is being executed, processing when an error occurs between the first interrupt and the second interrupt (FIG. 28), the start prize is The process in the case of occurrence (FIG. 29) and the process in the case of power failure (FIG. 30) will be described in order.

(Processing when an error occurs)
First, a process procedure when a predetermined error occurs between the first interrupt and the second interrupt will be described. FIG. 28 is an operation diagram for explaining the processing in the case where the error occurs, and is obtained by adding a description to a part of the flowchart of the timer interrupt processing of FIG. Here, (a) in the figure shows the processing of the first interrupt, and (b) shows the processing of the second interrupt. In this example, it is assumed that, except for the occurrence of a predetermined error, the condition under the same conditions as in the normal process, that is, the condition for starting the variation of the special symbol is satisfied.

  Under such circumstances, when the first interrupt process occurs, the process proceeds to the start port monitoring control process (S64) through the processes of S51 to S63 described above. In the start port monitoring control process (S64), if there is no game ball entering the first start port 61 or the second start port 62, the process is left as it is. Subsequently, in the special symbol control process (S65), since the special symbol game status is “00H (standby)”, the process is directly exited.

  Also, in the special symbol fluctuation start monitoring control process (S68), it is determined that the special symbol fluctuation start condition is satisfied as a special symbol start judgment, and as a result, the number of suspended action balls of the special symbol is reduced to one. (The number of operation holding balls = N−1). Then, after the special symbol success / failure determination process (S320), the symbol determination process (S330), etc. are executed, the special symbol game status is changed from “00H (standby)” to “01H (change start)” (S350). .

  Then, after the subsequent abnormality determination process (S69) is executed, the first interrupt process is terminated, and the process returns to the main control side main process. In other words, even if it is determined in this first interrupt processing that the special symbol variation start condition is satisfied, the special symbol variation start setting is not performed, but is left to the next second interrupt processing. It is done. Until the next interrupt process (second interrupt process) occurs, the loop process of S21 to S25 in the main process on the main control side is executed.

  Subsequently, when the second interrupt process occurs in a situation where a predetermined error has occurred, the error is caused by the above-described processes of S51 and S52, such as door / frame opening, magnetic sensor abnormality, radio wave sensor abnormality. If there is, the detection state of the switch related to the error is stored in the input process (S53).

  Subsequently, in the start port monitoring control process (S64), if there is no game ball entering the first start port 61 or the second start port 62, the process is directly exited. Next, in the special symbol control process (S65), since the special symbol game status on the special symbol side to be changed this time is “01H (change start)”, the special symbol change start process (S420) is called and executed. .

  In the special symbol variation start process (S420), after the special symbol variation pattern selection (S423), variation time setting (S424), variation start setting (S425, S426), etc. are executed, the special symbol game status is set to “ A transition is made from “01H (change start)” to “02H (change)” (S428).

  Subsequently, in the special symbol variation start monitoring control process (S68), the special symbol start determination has already been made in the first interrupt processing, and the variation start condition is not satisfied.

  Then, in the subsequent abnormality determination process (S69), if the occurrence of a predetermined error is detected, if it is the original (normal process), then the special symbol change is started. As a process, the special symbol variation start is prohibited until the error state is canceled. That is, even when the special symbol variation start process (S420) determines the start of variation of the special symbol, the variation is prohibited until the error state is resolved in the subsequent processing. .

  Here, in the present embodiment, errors detected on the main control board 100 side include errors in payout of prize balls and other errors. As an error in paying out a prize ball, a communication line abnormality is defined. The communication line abnormality state is when an abnormality is detected through communication with the payout control board 300 or when the main control board 100 is powered on. The communication line abnormality is canceled when communication with the payout board 300 can be normally performed. During the prize ball payout error, the launch of the game ball and the payout of a new prize ball are prohibited, and the variation of special symbols is prohibited.

  On the other hand, other errors include door / frame opening, magnetic sensor abnormality, radio wave sensor abnormality, and disconnection / short circuit power supply abnormality.

  When the glass frame 5, the front frame 2, or the back set panel 30 is open with respect to the outer frame 1, the door / frame opening detects a door opening switch that detects the opening of the glass frame 5, and detects the opening of the front frame 2. An error occurs when the frame opening switch or the back set opening switch for detecting the opening of the back set panel 30 is disconnected or malfunctioned. This door / frame opening is released when the gaming machine is confirmed to be normal and the glass frame 5, the front frame 2 and the back set board 30 are closed.

  The magnetic sensor abnormality and the radio wave sensor abnormality occur when the magnetic sensor detects magnetism, when the radio wave sensor detects radio waves, and when a breakage, short circuit, or failure of the magnetic sensor or radio wave sensor occurs. The magnetic sensor abnormality and radio wave sensor abnormality are canceled when the gaming machine is checked for abnormality and the power is turned on again.

  The disconnection short circuit power supply abnormality occurs when disconnection, short circuit, or failure of various switches provided on the radio wave sensor and the game board surface occurs. The disconnection short circuit power supply abnormality is canceled when the gaming machine is checked for abnormality and the power is turned on again.

  At this time, in the case of door / frame opening, magnetic sensor abnormality, and radio wave sensor abnormality, variation of special symbols is prohibited as processing during the error. In addition, in the case of a disconnection short circuit power supply abnormality, as a process during the error, the launching of the game ball is prohibited and the variation of the special symbol is prohibited.

(Processing when a start win occurs)
Next, a procedure of processing when a special symbol start winning is performed between the processing of the first interrupt and the processing of the second interrupt will be described. FIG. 29 is an operation diagram for explaining the processing when the start winning is generated, and is a part of the flowchart of the timer interrupt processing of FIG. Here, (a) in the figure shows the processing of the first interrupt, and (b) shows the processing of the second interrupt. In this example, it is assumed that, except for the start winning, the same conditions as the above-described normal process, that is, the condition for starting the special symbol variation is satisfied.

  Under such circumstances, when the first interrupt process occurs, the process proceeds to the start port monitoring control process (S64) through the processes of S51 to S63 described above. First, in the start port monitoring control process (S64), if there is no game ball entering the first start port 61 or the second start port 62, the process is directly exited. Subsequently, in the special symbol control process (S65), since the special symbol game status is “00H (standby)”, the process is directly exited. Subsequently, in the special symbol fluctuation start monitoring control process (S68), it is determined that the special symbol fluctuation start condition is established as the start determination of the special symbol. Digestion (number of working suspension balls = N-1). Then, after the special symbol success / failure determination process (S320), the symbol determination process (S330), etc. are executed, the special symbol game status is changed from “00H (standby)” to “01H (change start)” (S350). .

  Then, after the subsequent abnormality determination process (S69) is executed, the first interrupt process is terminated, and the process returns to the main control side main process. That is, in the first interrupt process, even when the special symbol start-up setting is performed, the special symbol change start associated with the start-up setting is not performed, but is left to the next second interrupt process. Until the next interrupt process (second interrupt process) occurs, the loop process of S21 to S25 in the main process on the main control side is executed.

  Subsequently, it is assumed that there is a ball entering the first start port 61 or the second start port 62 when the second interrupt processing occurs. When the second interrupt process occurs, the detection state of the first start port switch 611 or the second start port switch 621 related to the start winning is saved in the input process (S53) through the processes of S51 and S52 described above. Is done. Then, in the start port monitorability control process (S64), a random number per special symbol, a random number per symbol, and a special symbol variation pattern random number are acquired on condition that the number of the operation-suspended balls is less than the upper limit number 4. -Store and add 1 to the number of the operation reserve balls (operation reserve balls = N). Subsequently, in the special symbol control process (S65), since the special symbol game status on the special symbol side to be changed this time is “01H (change start)”, the special symbol change start process (S420) is called and executed. To do.

  In the special symbol variation start process (S420), after executing the variation pattern selection (S423), variation time setting (S424), variation start setting (S425, S426), etc., the special symbol game status is set to “01H (variation). (Start)) to “02H (Fluctuating)” (S428).

  Here, it should be noted that even when the number of the operation-reserved balls is depleted based on the start determination in the process of the preceding first interrupt (the number of operation-retained balls = N−1), the aforementioned start winning (starter opening) Since the number of suspended balls for operation is incremented by 1 in the second interrupt processing at the subsequent stage, the number of suspended operation balls is returned to the original (the number of suspended balls for operation = N), and the operation is suspended when the first interrupt processing occurs. If there are four balls, the number of reserved balls may be four when the variation pattern is selected. Therefore, in the present embodiment, as described above, the number of reserved balls is set in a range from “0” to “4” as one of selection criteria of the variation pattern table when the result of the winning / failing lottery corresponds to a loss. doing

  Subsequently, through the special electric accessory control process (S66) and the special winning opening valid period setting process (S67), the special symbol change start monitoring control process (S68) has already started the special symbol start determination in the first interrupt process. Since the change start condition is not satisfied, the process is left as it is.

  Next, after the subsequent abnormality determination process (S69) is executed, the second interrupt process is terminated, and the process returns to the main control side main process. Thereafter, timer interrupt processing occurs at regular intervals, and within the timer interrupt processing, special symbol changing processing (S430), special symbol stop symbol display processing (S440), etc. are sequentially executed. .

(Processing when power failure occurs)
Next, a processing procedure when a power interruption occurs between the first interrupt and the second interrupt and a power interruption is detected during the processing of the second interrupt will be described. FIG. 30 is an operation diagram for explaining the processing in the case where the power interruption occurs, and is obtained by adding a description to a part of the flowchart of the timer interrupt processing of FIG. Here, (a) in the figure shows the processing of the first interrupt, and (b) shows the processing of the second interrupt. In this example, it is assumed that, except for the occurrence of the power interruption, the same conditions as the above-described normal processing, that is, the special symbol variation start condition is satisfied.

  Under such circumstances, when the first interrupt process occurs, the process proceeds to the start port monitoring control process (S64) through the processes of S51 to S63 described above. First, in the start port monitoring control process (S64), if there is no game ball entering the first start port 61 or the second start port 62, the process is directly exited. Subsequently, in the special symbol control process (S65), since the special symbol game status is “00H (standby)”, the process is directly exited. Subsequently, in the special symbol fluctuation start monitoring control process (S68), it is determined that the special symbol fluctuation start condition is established as the start determination of the special symbol. Digested (number of working reserve balls = N-1). Then, after the special symbol success / failure determination process (S320), the symbol determination process (S330), etc. are executed, the special symbol game status is changed from “00H (standby)” to “01H (change start)” (S350). .

  Then, after the subsequent abnormality determination process (S69) is executed, the first interrupt process is terminated, and the process returns to the main control side main process. That is, in the first interrupt process, even when the special symbol start-up setting is performed, the special symbol change start associated with the start-up setting is not performed, but is left to the next second interrupt process. Until the next interrupt process (second interrupt process) occurs, the loop process of S21 to S25 in the main process on the main control side is executed.

  Subsequently, when the second interrupt process occurs, the processes after S51 are executed again, and it is assumed that the main control board 100 side detects the power interruption in the middle of the process. At this time, if the CPU 101A of the main control board 100 detects a power-off signal from the power-supply board 400, an NMI interrupt process (non-maskable interrupt process) occurs immediately and stores information on the occurrence of power-off of the gaming machine. The power-off confirmation data “55H” is stored in the confirmation flag, and the flag is turned on. Then, the process returns to the second interrupt process (the process before the occurrence of the NMI interrupt), and as the remaining processes, the start port monitoring control process (S64), the special symbol control process (S65), and the like are sequentially executed. When the second interrupt process is completed, the process returns to the loop process in the main process on the main control side. Returning to this loop process, the contents of the power-off confirmation flag set in the previous NMI interrupt process are confirmed (S23 in FIG. 13), and thereafter, the power-off process (S26 to S32 in FIG. 13) is executed. Finally, the CPU 101A waits for reset.

  In addition, this invention is not limited to the said embodiment, If it is a range which does not deviate from the summary of this invention, it can improve suitably.

  In the above-described embodiment, in the special symbol fluctuation start monitoring control process (S68), when the result of the special symbol success / failure determination corresponds to a jackpot, the special symbol change based on the determined symbol group type (jackpot type). Although it is determined whether or not the probability variation function is to be provided (S343) and the demonstration performance time is set (S348), it is not limited to this configuration. For example, when adopting the so-called ball accuracy spec, if the result of the success / failure determination is a big hit, the time value for the probable hit and the time value for the normal hit as the display time of the big hit end demonstration production in advance Is determined based on whether or not a predetermined opportunity has occurred during the special game, that is, whether or not the game ball has entered the V zone in the big winning opening 64. Alternatively, it may be configured to determine whether the odd hit or the normal hit and to determine the display time of the big hit end demonstration effect according to the determination result.

  In the above-described embodiment, the preferential digestion that preferentially digests the operation reserved balls of the second special symbol is adopted as the digestion order of the operation reserved balls of the special symbol, but is not limited to this configuration. For example, the first special symbol and the second special symbol according to the order of entering the first start port 61 and the second start port 62 by causing the number of the active special reserve balls of the first special symbol and the number of active reserve balls of the second special symbol to coexist. You may comprise so that the action reservation ball of 2 special symbols may be digested. In this way, when the digestion order of the operation-reserved balls is set to the order of entering the start ports 61 and 62, naturally, the special symbol variation start condition is different from that in the priority digestion. That is, in the order of entry, the special symbol variation start condition is (1) that there is no big hit or small hit, and (2) both the first special symbol and the second special symbol are waiting for variation. (3) The number of working balls to be retained exists in at least one of the first special symbol and the second special symbol, and (4) the digestion order of the working balls to be digested this time is consistent with the entering order. When all the conditions are satisfied, it is determined that the fluctuation can be started. Further, when the digestion order of the operation reservation balls is the order of entering the start ports 61 and 62, when the operation reservation balls are updated, that is, when the operation reservation balls are acquired or digested, the operation reservation balls This is different from the case where the preferential digestion is adopted in that it is necessary to update the total number of suspended balls for the first special symbol and the second special symbol and to update the order of entering the balls.

  In the above-described embodiment, the effect control command generated in each process in the timer interrupt process that occurs at regular intervals is temporarily stored in the ring buffer type command storage area in the main information storage unit 180, and the subsequent In the effect control command transmission process (S77), one command is transmitted to the sub control board 200 for each interrupt (one interrupt and one command transmission), but the present invention is not limited to this configuration. That is, an effect control command may be generated in each process, and the effect control command may be transmitted directly to the sub control board 200 within the process. According to such a configuration, the possibility of delaying the transmission timing of the effect control command is avoided.

  In the above-described embodiment, the variation time is set according to the variation pattern of the selected special symbol. However, the variation time is defined as the basic variation time, and the result of the lottery determination is determined. In the case of winning, an additional variation time may be added according to the big hit type. That is, when setting the basic variation time according to the selected variation pattern, determining whether to add the variation additional time according to the symbol group type (big hit type), and adding the additional variation time Adds the additional variation time continuously and integrally to the basic variation time, and defines this as the variation time. According to such a configuration, it is possible to prepare various variation patterns without increasing the number of basic variation patterns by combining the basic variation pattern (basic variation time) and the additional variation pattern (additional variation time). become. Therefore, various effects can be executed without imposing a large processing burden on the main control board 100.

  In the above-described embodiment, when the result of the lottery determination is out of place, the variation pattern is determined according to the variation pattern selection state, the special symbol variation pattern random number value, and the number of the operation suspension balls, As described above, in this embodiment, since the operation holding ball is decremented by 1 (holding digestion) in the processing of the preceding first interrupt, a starting ball is generated between the subsequent processing of the second interrupt. In the case of acquiring the operation holding ball, the number of operation holding balls may be “4” when selecting the variation pattern of the special symbol. Therefore, the variation pattern table selection table referred to here includes: Operation hold numbers “0” to “4” are defined. On the other hand, this configuration is modified so that the number of pending operation balls is not subtracted in the process of the first interrupt, but only the success / failure determination and the symbol determination are performed, and the operation pending ball is processed in the subsequent second interrupt process. It is good also as a structure which subtracts (holding digestion). According to such a configuration, when the four interrupted balls are held at the time when the processing of the first interrupt is completed, the start winning is made between the processing of the first interrupt and the processing of the second interrupt. Even if it occurs, since the number of the active reserve balls has reached the upper limit, the start winning is not triggered by the acquisition of the active reserve ball. When the variation pattern is selected, the number of activated balls is three. For this reason, it is sufficient to define the operation suspension numbers “0” to “3” in the variation pattern table selection table.

  In the embodiment described above, the description is omitted, but in the pachinko gaming machine PM, the sub-control board 200 side sets a predetermined decrement timer at the end of the big hit or at the end of the variation of the decorative symbol, and the variation of the decorative symbol The waiting time is monitored, and when the timer reaches “0”, a waiting demo effect waiting for the customer is displayed on the effect display device 70. That is, the standby demonstration effect is executed by the management on the sub-control board 200 side. On the other hand, by modifying this configuration, the main control board 100 monitors the variation standby time of the special symbol, and when the variation standby time exceeds a predetermined threshold, the production control that instructs the start of the standby demonstration production A configuration may be adopted in which a command is generated and transmitted to the sub control board 200, that is, a standby demonstration effect is executed by management on the main control board 100 side.

  In the above-described embodiment, as the first special symbol side process and the second special symbol side process, for example, the special symbol fluctuation start monitoring control process (FIGS. 15 to 18) or the special symbol control process (FIGS. 23) As can be seen from FIG. 23, a special symbol side table (special symbol variation start monitoring table or special symbol control table) to be changed is set, and various tables and RAM storage areas used in each process Are offset by the first special symbol and the second special symbol, so that a common program is used. On the other hand, as a modification of this configuration, the first special symbol side process and the second special symbol side process may be configured as different independent processes (different programs). Here, when the former is adopted, it is effective in that the program capacity can be reduced, and the latter is effective in that the processing speed can be increased because processing such as offset is unnecessary.

  In the above-described embodiment, when the special symbol variation start condition is satisfied and the operation holding ball is digested, the symbol random value per special symbol, the symbol random value per special symbol, the special symbol variation pattern random value, in order Although it is the structure to acquire, it is not limited to this structure. Here, the special symbol variation pattern random value is different from the special symbol random value and the special symbol random value per special symbol, and is not a random number related to the operation of the condition device and the special electric accessory. The random value may be acquired when a pattern is selected. According to this configuration, since it is not necessary to store the random number value in each determination area of the main information storage unit 180 from the time of pending reservation to the time of selecting a variation pattern, the program capacity can be reduced. .

  In the above-described embodiment, even when the operation reserved ball exists in both the first special symbol and the second special symbol, the number of the operation reserved balls is digested by any one of the special symbols, and the first special symbol. And the second special symbol are so-called in-line models in which no success / failure lottery or symbol variation is performed at the same time. On the other hand, a so-called parallel model in which the first special symbol and the second special symbol are independently selected and the lottery or symbol variation is performed may be adopted. According to this parallel model, it is not necessary to include the operation state of the other party's special symbol (that is, the variation is waiting) as the special symbol variation start condition, so the processing load on the main control board 100 is reduced. Is reduced. In this case, since the first special symbol and the second special symbol may be variably displayed at the same time, the special symbol control process (S65) described above is performed with the first special symbol and the second special symbol. Need to be separated. In addition, in this parallel model, when the winning / losing lottery on one special symbol side of the first special symbol and the second special symbol side, the result of the winning / losing lottery on the other special symbol side corresponds to big hit or small hit. If so, the winning lottery of one special symbol is not executed and is reserved.

  In the above-described embodiment, the configuration in which the number of special games is divided into 16R and 12R (round game maximum opening time 30 seconds) and 2R (round game maximum opening time 0.05 seconds) is described as an example. The so-called round distribution mode is not limited to this. For example, a plurality of types of special games may be provided such that the number of rounds of the special game is the same, but the operation pattern of the special prize opening 64 is different, and the total opening time of the special prize opening 64 is different. Specifically, the 16R special game where the maximum release time of round games is always long (30 seconds), and the first few rounds of the first round of round games are long (30 seconds) and the remaining rounds May be provided with a 16R special game for a short time (0.05 seconds).

  In the above-described embodiment, the configuration in which the first start port 61 and the second start port 62 are arranged side by side in the approximate center of the game area PA is described as an example, but the present invention is not limited to this. The first starting port may be disposed relatively on the left side in the game area, and the second starting port may be disposed relatively on the right side, so that the balls entering the two starting ports can be separated.

  In the above-described embodiment, when it is determined that the special symbol change start condition is satisfied in the first interrupt process, the process of starting the special symbol change is executed in the second interrupt process. The present invention is not limited to the configuration, and a process for starting the variation of the special symbol may be executed in the process after the third interrupt.

PM Pachinko machine PA Game area 20 Game board 61 First start port (start port)
62 Second start port (start port)
71 1st special symbol display device (symbol display means)
72 2nd special symbol display device (symbol display means)
100 Main control board (main control means)
200 Sub-control board (production control means)

Claims (1)

A game board in which a game area is formed;
A start opening provided in the game area and capable of entering a game ball;
A symbol display means for variably displaying a predetermined symbol;
A main control means for controlling the progress of the game;
Production control means for controlling the production related to the game based on the command from the main control means,
In the main control means, as a control of the game progress, a game machine configured to execute a main process that is started after power-on and a timer interrupt process that is started every predetermined period by interrupting the main process There,
The timer interrupt process includes a first process for determining whether or not a variation start condition for starting the variation display of the symbol is satisfied in the symbol display means, and when the variation start condition is satisfied And a second process for causing the symbol display means to start the variable display of the symbol,
The main control means does not execute the second process in the same timer interrupt process when it is determined that the change start condition is satisfied in the first process, and the timer after the next time is not executed. A gaming machine configured to execute the second process in an interrupt process.

Images