JP2015080523A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine which can increase an operation rate by promoting a player to positively participate in a performance using a performance button.SOLUTION: A game machine includes operation means in which when an operation is indicated, a player carries out an operation, and thus a performance based on a determination result by winning/losing determination means is executed. In an operation effective period of the operation means and a period in which the operation means is not operated, a mode of display of promoting the operation of the operation means is changed.

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine provided with display means for variably displaying various symbols.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, there is known a gaming machine that includes an effect button that can be used to select an effect or change the effect by a player's operation.

  For example, in the bullet ball game machine described in Patent Document 1, when the stop button chance game is won, the liquid crystal display displays that the stop button chance game is started. Along with this, the push button becomes effective, and when the push button is pressed or after a predetermined time elapses after the button is valid, the LED fluctuation display unit fluctuates with the content corresponding to the fluctuation pattern command and stops. Then, based on the received variation pattern command, for example, the winning state of “666” is displayed on the special symbol display section (Patent Document 1, paragraphs 0054, 0055, FIG. 8).

  In addition to Patent Document 1, in order to inform the player that the operation of the push button is effective, a push button image is displayed on the display unit, or the expected degree of jackpot is notified in addition to the operation being effective. Therefore, gaming machines that display push button images (small buttons, large buttons, etc.) according to the degree of expectation have been put on the market.

Japanese Patent No. 4987111

  However, in such a conventional gaming machine, there is a mode of a push button image with high expectation, but in many cases, a push button image is displayed in a mode with relatively low expectation. For this reason, there are many players who do not push the push button when displayed in a mode with low expectation.

  The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and provides a gaming machine capable of increasing the operating rate by having a player actively participate in an effect using an effect button. With the goal.

  The gaming machine according to the first aspect of the present invention includes a display means for variably displaying various symbols, a success / failure determination means for determining whether or not to win or fail, and the success / failure determination means when operated by a player during an operation valid period. An operation means for executing an effect according to the determination result, wherein the display means displays a display prompting a player to operate the operation means, and the operation is performed from the start of the operation effective period. The display mode changes during the period until the means is operated.

  In a second aspect based on the first aspect, an effect that is executed when a player operates the operating means during the operation effective period differs depending on the display mode when the operating means is operated. It is characterized by.

  The third invention includes a display means for variably displaying various symbols, a success / failure determination means for determining whether or not to win or fail, and a determination result by the success / failure determination means when a player operates during the operation valid period. At least two operation means for performing an effect according to the display, wherein the display means displays a display prompting a player to operate the operation means, and the operation is performed from the start of the operation effective period. The display mode changes during the period until the means is operated.

  According to a fourth invention, in the third invention, after the first operation valid period in which the operation of the first operation means is effective, the operation of the second operation means different from the first operation means is effective. The second operation effective period is started.

  A fifth invention is characterized in that, in the fourth invention, an effect executed by an operation of the first operation means is different from an effect executed by an operation of the second operation means.

  A sixth invention is characterized in that in the third to fifth inventions, the display changes in size, color or pattern.

  A seventh invention is characterized in that, in the third to sixth inventions, the higher the number of operation means to be instructed to operate, the higher the degree of expectation of winning.

  According to the present invention, the operating rate of a gaming machine can be increased by having a player actively participate in an effect using an effect button.

The perspective view of the front side which shows the external appearance of the pachinko game machine which concerns on an Example. The perspective view of the back side which shows the external appearance of the pachinko machine of FIG. The front view of the game board of the pachinko machine of FIG. The block diagram which shows the structure of the control apparatus of the pachinko game machine of FIG. Production example 1 using production buttons. Production example 2 using production buttons. Production example 3 using production buttons. (A) Timing chart of production execution pattern 1, (b) Production execution pattern 2 (one production button). (C) Timing chart of effect execution pattern 3, (d) Effect execution pattern 4 (two effect buttons). (E) Timing chart of effect execution pattern 5 and (f) Effect execution pattern 6 (one effect button, change in volume or light amount). The flowchart which shows the game management process performed by the main control side. The flowchart which shows the special symbol management process in FIG. 9 is a flowchart (first half) showing a special symbol variation start process in FIG. Flowchart showing the special symbol variation start processing in FIG. 8 (second half). The flowchart which shows the special electric-power-item management process in FIG. The flowchart which shows the main process performed by the sub-control side. The flowchart which shows the timer interruption process performed by the sub-control side.

  First, an outline of the gaming machine of the embodiment will be described.

  The gaming machine according to the first embodiment includes a display means for variably displaying various symbols, a success / failure determination means for determining whether or not a hit or miss has occurred, and the success / failure determination means when operated by a player during an operation effective period. Operating means for executing an effect according to the determination result by the display, wherein the display means displays a display prompting a player to operate the operating means, and the operation effective period from the start of the operation effective period The display mode changes during the period until the operating means is operated.

  The gaming machine according to the present embodiment includes an operation unit that executes an effect according to the determination result when the player operates. Here, the “effect” is a predetermined display mainly appearing on the screen of the display means, but may be an output of sound or light. Also, “execution of effect” includes not only the start of the effect but also the change of the effect being executed.

  The operation means becomes effective during the operation effective period, and at this time, a display for prompting the player to perform an operation is performed. The display changes, for example, gradually or suddenly during the period from the start of the operation effective period until the operation means is operated.

  Since the player becomes interested in the change in the display, the effect of prompting the operation of the operation means is high. As a result, the player actively participates in the production using the operation means, and the operating rate of the gaming machine increases.

  In the present embodiment, it is preferable that the effect executed when the player operates the operation means during the operation effective period varies depending on the display mode when the operation means is operated.

  In the present embodiment, the display mode for prompting the operation of the operation unit is changed during the period from the start of the operation effective period until the operation unit is operated, but the effect executed depends on the display mode during the operation. .

  For example, when the operation means is operated after the display has changed sufficiently, an effect that the degree of expectation is easy to understand is executed in a short period of time compared to the case where the operation is performed while the display hardly changes. . Thereby, the pleasure that the player selects the timing for operating the operation means is generated.

  The gaming machine according to the second embodiment includes display means for variably displaying various symbols, success / failure determination means for determining whether or not to win or fail, and the success / failure determination means when a player operates during an operation valid period. At least two operation means for executing an effect according to the determination result by the display, wherein the display means displays a display prompting the player to operate the operation means, wherein the operation effective period The display mode changes during a period from the start to the operation of the operation means.

  The gaming machine according to the second embodiment includes at least two operation means that execute an effect according to the determination result when the player operates. The display that prompts the player to operate the operation means may be distinguished by, for example, the shape of the operation means. The display changes, for example, gradually or suddenly during the period from the start of the operation effective period until the operation means is operated.

  Since the player becomes interested in the change in the display, the effect of prompting the operation of the operation means is high. As a result, the player actively participates in the production using the operation means, and the operating rate of the gaming machine increases.

  In the present embodiment, after the first operation effective period in which the operation of the first operation means becomes effective, the second operation effective in which the operation of the second operation means different from the first operation means becomes effective. It is preferred that the period starts.

  In the present embodiment, the operation of the first operation means cannot be performed with the end of the first operation effective period, and the display change prompting the operation is also ended in the middle. However, since the second operation valid period starts thereafter, the display for prompting the operation of the second operation means starts and changes. Thereby, even a player who has not operated the first operating means can realize an amusing gaming machine that may operate the second operating means.

  Moreover, in this embodiment, it is preferable that the effect performed by operation of the said 1st operation means differs from the effect performed by operation of the said 2nd operation means.

  In the present embodiment, the effect executed by the operation of the first operation unit is, for example, a change in an image or a moving image displayed on the display unit. The effect executed by the operation of the second operation means is, for example, an operation of a movable accessory. In this way, by varying the performances executed by the first operation means and the second operation means, various effects are performed, and a gaming machine that does not get tired of the player can be obtained.

  In the present embodiment, the display preferably changes in size, color, or pattern.

  As an example of the display for prompting the player to operate the operation means, an image of the shape of the operation means displayed on the display means can be given. By changing the size, color, or pattern of the image, the player becomes interested in the operation of the operation means, and the operation is prompted. Thereby, an even more interesting gaming machine can be realized.

  Further, in the present embodiment, it is preferable that the degree of expectation of winning increases as the number of operation means that are instructed to operate increases.

  In the present embodiment, there may be three or more operating means, and the higher the operating means that are instructed to operate, the higher the expected degree of hit. That is, when the operation of the second operating means is instructed, the degree of expectation of winning is higher than when only the first operating means is instructed to operate. In addition, the third operation means can execute various effects using the operation means by instructing the operation only when the expectation level of winning is extremely high.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 1, the part which comprises the pachinko game machine 1 of an Example is demonstrated.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the pachinko gaming machine 1 includes a rectangular outer frame 2, and a front frame 3 and a front door 5 pivotally attached to the outer frame 2 so as to be opened and closed. The front frame 3 has a frame shape, and a game board 4 (see FIG. 3) can be attached to the opening. Further, a glass plate 6 is fitted in the central portion of the front door 5 so that the game board 4 can be visually recognized from the outside.

  Speakers 7 are provided on the left and right sides of the upper part of the front door 5. The speaker 7 is a sound output unit that outputs the effect sound effect accompanying the game to the outside. Further, frame decoration LEDs 8 are provided on the left and right sides and the upper part of the front door 5. The frame decoration LED 8 is a decoration part in which the LED emits light and blinks in conjunction with the effect of the game.

  A front plate 9 is provided on the lower side of the front door 5, and a left end portion thereof is pivotally attached to the front frame 3 so as to be openable. The front plate 9 is provided with a launch handle 10 for operating the launch mechanism, an upper storage tray 11 for storing game balls, a lower storage tray 12 and the like.

  In addition, a left effect button 13 and a center effect button 14 that are effective when the built-in lamp is lit are provided on the surface portion of the upper storage dish 11. When the operation is enabled, the effect buttons 13 and 14 can start or change the effect by being pressed by the player. The production buttons 13 and 14 correspond to “operation means” of the present invention.

  The production buttons 13 and 14 may be selectively used depending on the expected degree of jackpot or the content of the production. For example, the operation of the left effect button 13 is instructed in a normal effect, but the operation of the center effect button 14 is instructed in an effect with an extremely high expectation degree of jackpot.

  FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the back side of the pachinko gaming machine 1.

  As shown in FIG. 2, a frame-like back mechanism board 16 that holds down the game board 4 (see FIG. 3) from the back side is attached to the back surface of the pachinko gaming machine 1. A game ball storage tank 17 for storing game balls supplied from a game ball supply device (not shown) of the pachinko hall side island facility is provided on the upper side of the back mechanism board 16.

  A game ball payout device 19 for paying out game balls is provided at the inclined lower end of the tank rail 18 for drawing out the balls from the game ball storage tank 17. Furthermore, an external terminal board 21 for electrically connecting to a hall computer (see FIG. 4) that collectively manages all the gaming machines in the pachinko hall (game hall) is provided at the corner of the back mechanism board 16. The terminal board case 22 is housed and provided.

  In addition, a transparent back cover 23 attached to the back side of the game board 4 is provided in the approximate center of the back mechanism board 16. In this back cover 23, a transparent effect control board case 25a accommodating the effect control board 25 and a transparent liquid crystal control board case 26a accommodating the liquid crystal control board 26 are provided.

  A volume switch 31 is provided between the effect control board 25 and the liquid crystal control board 26. The volume can be set in 10 steps by rotating the knob.

  A transparent main control board case 24a that houses the main control board 24 is provided below the liquid crystal control board case 26a. The main control board 24 controls the operation of the pachinko gaming machine 1 in an integrated manner. Since the main control board 24 is connected to various switches and sensors, it receives these detection signals and performs various processes.

  The main control board 24 is provided with a RAM clear switch 27. When the store clerk turns on the power while pressing down the RAM clear switch 27, the stored contents of the RAM area are erased, and the pachinko gaming machine 1 is in the initial state.

  The effect control board 25 receives various control commands transmitted from the main control board 24, and controls effects by, for example, the panel decoration LED 35 or the liquid crystal display device 36 (see FIG. 3) based on the control commands.

  Below the main control board case 24a, a transparent power supply board case 28a containing a power supply board 28 and a transparent payout control board case 29a containing a payout control board 29 are disposed.

  Further, at a position corresponding to the launch handle 10, a launch control board 30 is provided on the rear side of a game ball launcher (not shown) provided with a strike rod for hitting the game ball and a launch motor for driving the hit ball. .

  Next, the gaming board 4 of the pachinko gaming machine 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the game board 4 is formed of a substantially square panel, and the game area 4a on the board surface includes a center decorative body 34a fixed to the front surface of the decorative board 4b with a screw or the like, and a left corner decorative body. 34b, a right corner decoration body 34c, and the like. The decorative bodies 34a to 34c are each formed by integral molding by injection molding using a hard resin material such as polycarbonate.

  A plurality of panel decoration LEDs 35 are arranged on the center decoration body 34a. The board decoration LED 35 is a decoration unit that enhances the effect by changing the light emission color and light emission mode in accordance with the symbol change display and the notice display in each game.

  An opening is formed in the center of the game board 4, and the display screen of the liquid crystal display device 36 is disposed in the opening. The liquid crystal display device 36 is a display that displays various effects such as a pattern on which various numbers, characters, and the like are drawn, a background image, and reach according to the game. The liquid crystal display device 36 corresponds to the “display unit” of the present invention.

  The upper part of the liquid crystal display device 36 is a movable accessory 37. This movable accessory 37 drops and moves to the center or the lower part of the display screen according to the effect in the game and the expectation level of the big hit.

  Below the liquid crystal display device 36, a start winning device 38 including a first special symbol start port 38a and a second special symbol start port 38b is arranged. A lottery is performed when a game ball flowing down the game area 4a wins the special symbol start openings 38a and 38b, and the special display of the special symbol is displayed on the LED display device 43 described later. In addition, the liquid crystal display device 36 also performs a variable display of decorative symbols corresponding to the special symbols.

  The second special symbol start port 38b is provided with an opening / closing member, and when the opening / closing member is opened, the game ball is easily won. The open / close member is opened a predetermined number of times for a predetermined time when a normal symbol lottery to be described later is won. In the following, a device in which the second special symbol start opening 38b and the opening / closing member are combined may be referred to as an ordinary electric accessory (general power).

  Below the start winning device 38, a large winning device 39 is arranged. The big winning device 39 is a winning device that is opened for a predetermined time when a special symbol lottery is won, that is, when a big win is won. A lot of prize balls can be obtained by winning a game ball in a big prize opening (not shown) inside the big prize device 39. Note that the game ball is awarded to the big winning device 39 by “right-handed” using the passage on the right side of the game area.

  An LED display device 43 is disposed on the lower left side of the game area 4a. The LED display device 43 is composed of a large number of LEDs, changes the special symbol in response to a winning at the special symbol start ports 38a and 38b, and stops at a specific lighting pattern as a lottery result. The LED display device 43 can also display normal symbol fluctuations, special symbols, number of reserved balls of normal symbols, and the like.

  On the left side of the game area 4a, a normal symbol start gate 40, a windmill 41 for changing the flow direction of the game ball, and a number of game nails (not shown) are arranged. The normal symbol start gate 40 is a winning device that triggers the start of a normal symbol. When the game balls pass through the normal symbol start gate 40, a lottery is performed, and the normal symbols change.

  A plurality of general winning ports 42 are arranged below the game area 4a. When a game ball wins the general winning opening 42, a predetermined number of prize balls are paid out.

  On the leftmost side of the game area 4a, a guide rail 44 extending in a substantially vertical direction is arranged to guide the game ball launched by the launch mechanism to the game area 4a. The guide rail 44 is composed of two metal strip-shaped outer and inner guide rails 44a and 44b.

  A space extending in the vertical direction between the two outer and inner guide rails 44a and 44b forms a launch passage 45 through which a game ball launched from the launch mechanism passes. At the upper end of the inner guide rail 44b, a return ball prevention piece 46 that allows the shot ball to pass in the launch direction (the game area 4a side) and prevents the return ball (the launch path 45 side) from passing is provided. ing. Further, at the lowermost part of the inner guide rail 44 b, an out ball collection port 47 and a ball approaching portion 48 for introducing the out ball into the out ball collection port 47 are formed.

  FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the control device of the pachinko gaming machine 1. In FIG. 4, the configuration of a relay board for relaying signals and some members not related to the present invention are omitted.

  This control device is mainly configured of a main control board 24 that comprehensively controls the operation of the pachinko gaming machine 1 and an effect control board 25 that receives commands from the main control board 24 and controls the effects. The power supply board 28 is connected to each board including the main control board 24, receives an AC voltage 24V from an external power supply, converts it to a DC voltage, and supplies it to each board.

  The main control board 24 includes a main control board CPU 241, a ROM 242, and a RAM 243 therein. The main control board side CPU 241 is a so-called processor unit, and performs a lottery process for determining whether or not to generate a big hit, a process for creating a control command from information on the determined variation pattern and stop symbol, and transmitting the control command to the effect control board 25 I do. The main control board side CPU 241 corresponds to the “appropriateness determination unit” of the present invention.

  The ROM 242 is a storage unit that stores a control program describing a series of gaming machine control procedures, control data, and the like. The RAM 243 is a storage unit having a work area for temporarily storing data set by the processing of the main control board side CPU 241.

  Connected to the main control board 24 are a RAM clear switch 27, a start winning opening sensor 38c, a large winning opening sensor 39c, a starting gate passage sensor 40c, a general winning opening sensor 42c, a magnetic sensor 50, a radio wave sensor 51, and a vibration sensor 52. The detection signal of each sensor can be received.

  The magnetic sensor 50 is a sensor that detects magnetism when a magnet or the like is brought close to the pachinko gaming machine 1. The radio wave sensor 51 is a sensor that detects strong radio waves emitted to the pachinko gaming machine 1, and the vibration sensor 52 is a sensor that detects strong vibration given to the pachinko gaming machine 1.

  Further, the LED display device 43 is connected to the main control board 24, and the random number information acquired by the main control board side CPU 241 through the lottery process is transmitted to the LED display device 43.

  Further, the main control board 24 is connected to an external terminal board 21 having terminals for connecting to the outside of the pachinko gaming machine 1. Various information such as a big hit in a game, the number of winnings, and the number of games is transmitted from the main control board 24 to the hall computer via the external terminal board 21.

  Further, a payout control board 29 is connected to the main control board 24. Since the lower storage tray full sensor 12c and the door opening sensor 32 are connected to the payout control board 29, when these sensors detect an abnormality, a detection signal is transmitted from the payout control board 29 to the main control board 24. . Note that the game ball payout device 19 and the launch control board 30 (further connected to the launch device 10a) are connected to the payout control board 29.

  Next, the effect control board 25 includes an effect control board side CPU 251, a ROM 252 and a RAM 253 therein. The effect control board side CPU 251 is a so-called processor unit, which receives a control command transmitted from the main control board 24 and performs processing for controlling various effects based on the control command.

  The ROM 252 is a storage unit that stores a control program describing a series of effect control procedures, effect data, and the like. Moreover, RAM253 is a memory | storage part provided with the work area which memorize | stores temporarily the data set by the process of the production control board side CPU251.

  A speaker 7, a frame decoration LED 8, a panel decoration LED 35, a volume switch 31, a left effect button 13, and a center effect button 14 are connected to the effect control board 25. Thereby, the production control board 25 controls the sound effect of the speaker 7, operation | movement of each LED, etc., and is raising the production effect, for example.

  When the player pushes down the effect buttons 13 and 14 during the effective period, the detection signal is transmitted to the effect control board 25, and the effect displayed on the liquid crystal display device 36 starts or changes.

  A liquid crystal control board 26 is connected to the effect control board 25. The liquid crystal control board 26 receives a command from the effect control board 25 and performs display control of the liquid crystal display device 36.

  The liquid crystal control board 26 includes a liquid crystal control CPU 261, a liquid crystal control ROM 262, a liquid crystal control RAM 263, a video display processor VDP 264, an image data ROM 265, and a VRAM 266 therein.

  The liquid crystal control CPU 261 is a so-called processor unit, and generates liquid crystal control data necessary for performing display control based on the liquid crystal control command received from the effect control board 25. The data is output to the video display processor VDP 264.

  The liquid crystal control ROM 262 is a storage unit that stores a program that describes the operation procedure of the liquid crystal control CPU 261, and the liquid crystal control RAM 263 is a storage unit that functions as a work area or a buffer memory.

  The video display processor VDP 264 is a processor that performs image processing of image data displayed on the liquid crystal display device 36. The image data ROM 265 is a storage unit that stores image data necessary for the video display processor VDP 264 to perform image processing. The VRAM 266 is a storage unit that temporarily stores image data processed by the video display processor VDP 264. is there.

  With the above configuration, the liquid crystal control board 26 performs image processing based on the liquid crystal control command transmitted from the effect control board 25, and displays effect images and moving images on the liquid crystal display device 36.

  Next, an effect example using the effect buttons 13 and 14 will be described with reference to FIGS.

  FIG. 5A is an example of an effect displayed on the screen of the liquid crystal display device 36 in the game. In particular, this is an effect of notifying the degree of expectation or the like of a big hit that starts when the player operates the left effect button 13.

  First, as shown in FIG. 5A (a), an effect button mark 13 ′, an operation instruction mark 56, a camera focus mark 57, and an operation effective period, which mean that the operation of the left effect button 13 is effective, are displayed on the screen. A gauge 58 is displayed. In addition, although the decorative symbol is not illustrated, it is a display during the symbol variation.

  When the player who is used to the game sees the display of FIG. 5A (a), the player recognizes that it is a notice effect in which the display changes by operating the left effect button 13. Here, when the player does not immediately operate the left effect button 13, the effect button mark 13 'is gradually enlarged (see FIG. 5A (b)).

  As for the gauge 58, since the operation effective period is the longest, the meter (colored portion) is up to the right end (see FIG. 5A (a)). Thereafter, as the operation effective period decreases, the meter decreases (see FIG. 5A (b)), and when the operation effective period becomes 0, the remaining meters also become 0.

  The effect button mark 13 ′ may be displayed small for a predetermined period (for example, 3 seconds from the start of display), and may be displayed suddenly large after the elapse of the predetermined period. Further, the effect button mark 13 ′ may gradually change in color and pattern as time passes.

  For example, the color can be changed to any color by determining the big hit expectation degree in the order of blue, green and red. With respect to the pattern, it is possible to change the effect button mark 13 ′ by defining a danger pattern combining yellow and black as a pattern with a very high expectation level for a big hit and a rainbow pattern as a pattern for determining a big hit.

  As described above, the shape of the effect button mark 13 ′ changes gradually or suddenly, so that the player feels that he wants to operate the left effect button 13. In particular, when the effect button mark 13 ′ changes to an unusual color or pattern, the effect of prompting the operation is enhanced. As a result, the player actively participates in the production using the production buttons.

  Thereafter, when the player operates the left effect button 13, the display is switched to the display of FIG. 5A (c). FIG. 5A (c) shows that the effect button mark 13 ', the operation instruction mark 56, and the focus mark 57 have disappeared from the screen, and a photo 59 has appeared instead. The illustrated photograph 59 is an example of an effect display, and various effects are prepared according to the degree of expectation for jackpot. For example, you may make it understand a big hit expectation degree by the content of the photograph.

  Thus, in the pachinko gaming machine 1, the shape of the effect button mark 13 ′ gradually changes during the operation effective period of the left effect button 13, and the player operates the left effect button 13 to obtain a predetermined effect. Appears. Therefore, it becomes a highly interesting game machine and the operation rate is improved.

  In the above, the effect button mark 13 ′ has been described as the “display for prompting the operation of the operation means” of the present invention, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the operation instruction mark 56 and the gauge 58 are also examples. Further, these combinations or all of them may be collectively referred to as “display for prompting operation of the operation means”.

  Further, the period during which the “display for prompting operation of the operation means” is not necessarily required to be completely coincident with the operation effective period. In order to indicate that the operation of the operation means will be effective soon, the display may be started before the operation effective period starts. In addition, the display may remain for a short period after the operation valid period ends as a reverberation of the effect executed by the operation.

  In any case, the effect button mark 13 ′, the operation instruction mark 56, or a part of the gauge 58 may be displayed before or after the operation effective period. For example, it is conceivable that only the effect button mark 13 ′ is displayed before the start of the operation effective period, and the operation instruction mark 56 and the gauge 58 are displayed when the operation effective period starts.

  Also, some players may not perform any operation even when an instruction to operate the effect button is given. For example, even if the state (maximum size) of FIG. 5A (b) is reached, if the left effect button 13 is not operated, the effect button mark 13 'disappears from the screen.

  On the other hand, even when the left effect button 13 is not operated, an effect button mark 14 ′ can be displayed thereafter to give the player the opportunity to operate the center effect button 14. This case will be described with reference to FIG. 5B.

  First, in FIG. 5B (a), an effect button mark 13 ', an operation instruction mark 56, a camera focus mark 57, and a gauge 58 are displayed on the screen of the liquid crystal display device 36. The operation effective period during which the operation of the left effect button 13 is effective is normally about 3 to 7 seconds. However, when the left effect button 13 is not operated during this period, the effect button mark 13 ′ is gradually enlarged. (See FIG. 5B (b)).

  Thereafter, when the operation valid period ends, the effect button mark 13 ′ disappears from the screen. At this time, the meter of the gauge 58 gradually decreases, but more than half remains, so the player feels uncomfortable that the operation effective period is long. In the meantime, the effect button mark 14 'meaning that the operation of the operation of the center effect button 14 is valid is newly displayed (see FIG. 5B (c)).

  Since the operation effective period during which the operation of the central effect button 14 is effective is usually about 3 to 7 seconds, if the central effect button 14 is not operated during this period, the effect button mark 14 'is gradually enlarged. (See FIG. 5B (d)).

  Thus, the case where the second effect button mark 14 'appears is when the expectation level for the big hit is higher than the case where only the first effect button mark 13' appears. Accordingly, a player who has not operated the left effect button 13 may operate the center effect button 14 while looking at the effect button mark 14 '. That is, the effect of prompting the player to operate the effect button is enhanced.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 5C, a case where the player operates the center effect button 14 will be described.

  The screen display of the liquid crystal display device 36 of FIG. 5C (a) is the same as that of FIG. The panel decoration LEDs 35a and 35b are arranged on the right part of the center ornament 34a, and the movable accessory 37 is on the upper part. Moreover, although the four decorative parts 60a-60d in the shape of eyes are arranged, the decorative part 60d is a movable decorative part that can switch between an open state and a closed state of the eyes.

  If the player operates the center effect button 14 in the state of FIG. 5C (a), the state of FIG. 5C (b) is obtained. FIG. 5C (b) shows a state where the movable accessory 37 has dropped to the lower side of the display screen. This is a high-impact performance in which the movable accessory 37 drops at high speed, and is executed when the big hit expectation is extremely high.

  At this time, the board decoration LEDs 35a and 35b are also separated and moved. Further, the decorative portions 60a to 60d are arranged in a straight line, and the decorative portion 60d is in an open state. Accordingly, the impact on the player is very large even at points other than the movable accessory 37.

  As described above, in the pachinko gaming machine 1, when the player does not operate the effect button during the operation valid period, the shape of the effect button mark is gradually changed, so that the player feels like pressing the effect button. And since the effect performed differs with the kind of effect button to operate, a game does not become monotonous.

  Next, with reference to FIGS. 6A to 6C, a plurality of cases will be described with respect to an effect execution pattern that is an effect execution mode. First, with reference to FIG. 6A, an effect execution pattern when there is one effect button will be described.

(A) Production execution pattern 1
The effect execution pattern 1 is a case where the effect button is operated at a relatively early stage in the operation effective period. Here, the case where the left effect button 13 is operated will be described, but the same applies when the center effect button 14 is operated.

  First, an effect button mark 13 ′ is displayed on the screen of the liquid crystal display device 36 in order to prompt the player to operate the left effect button 13 during the decoration symbol change. Here, as shown in FIG. 5A (a), the effect button mark 13 'is displayed small (display mode α). This means that the first operation valid period in which the operation of the left effect button 13 is valid has been entered. The built-in lamp of the left effect button 13 may be turned on to notify that the operation is effective.

  The first operation effective period is usually about 3 to 7 seconds. Here, during the period when the left effect button 13 is not operated during the first operation effective period, the effect button mark 13 ′ remains in the display mode α. Then, when the player operates the left effect button 13, a predetermined effect A starts.

  The effect A is an effect that appears on the display screen of the liquid crystal display device 36, for example. Thereafter, the decorative design stops in a hit or miss manner according to the lottery result. Further, after the operation of the left effect button 13, the operation of the left effect button 13 becomes invalid during the current symbol variation (shaded portion in the figure). At this time, the player does not notice that the second operation effective period in which the size of the effect button mark 13 ′ is changed starts after the end of the first operation effective period.

(B) Production execution pattern 2
Next, the production execution pattern 2 will be described. The effect execution pattern 2 is a case where the effect button is not operated in the first operation effective period and is operated in the second operation effective period.

  First, an effect button mark 13 ′ is displayed on the screen of the liquid crystal display device 36 in order to prompt the player to operate the left effect button 13 during the decoration symbol change. If the left effect button 13 is not operated during the first operation effective period, the effect button mark 13 ′ remains in the display mode α, and the first operation effective period ends.

  However, after that, the second operation effective period starts, and as shown in FIG. 5A (b), the effect button mark 13 'is displayed larger than the first operation effective period (display mode β). During the period when the left effect button 13 is not operated during the second operation effective period, the effect button mark 13 ′ remains in the display mode β, but when the player operates the left effect button 13, A predetermined effect B different from the effect A starts.

  Thereafter, the decorative design stops in a hit or miss manner according to the lottery result. After the operation of the left effect button 13, the operation of the left effect button 13 becomes invalid during the current symbol change (shaded portion in the figure).

  The above is an example in which the left effect button 13 is operated, but the operation of the center effect button 14 may be prompted. A difference may be provided in the operation opportunity of the effect buttons 13 and 14, and when the operation of the effect button (for example, the center effect button 14) with few operation opportunities is prompted, the big hit expectation degree may be set higher.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 6B, an effect execution pattern when there are two effect buttons will be described.

(C) Production execution pattern 3
First, the effect execution pattern 3 is a case where the effect button is operated at a relatively early stage in the operation effective period. Here, it is assumed that the first presentation button 13 is prompted to operate first, and the central presentation button 14 is prompted next.

  First, when the operation of the left effect button 13 is prompted during the change of the decorative design, the effect button mark 13 ′ is displayed on the screen of the liquid crystal display device 36 (see FIG. 5A (a)). This means that the first operation valid period in which the operation of the left effect button 13 is valid has been entered.

  The first operation effective period is usually about 3 to 7 seconds. During a period when the left effect button 13 is not operated during the first operation effective period, the shape of the effect button mark 13 ′ gradually changes. Then, when the player operates the left effect button 13, a predetermined effect C starts.

  The effect C is, for example, an effect that appears on the display screen of the liquid crystal display device 36 (see FIG. 5A (c)). Thereafter, the decorative design stops in a hit or miss manner according to the lottery result.

  After the operation of the left effect button 13, the operation of the left effect button 13 becomes invalid during the current symbol variation (shaded portion in the figure). Then, the player does not notice that the second operation effective period in which the operation of the center effect button 14 is effective starts after the end of the first operation effective period.

(D) Production execution pattern 4
Next, the production execution pattern 4 will be described. The effect execution pattern 4 is a case where the effect button is not operated in the first operation effective period and is operated in the second operation effective period. Also here, it is assumed that the first effect button 13 is prompted first, and the center effect button 14 is prompted next.

  First, when the operation of the left effect button 13 is prompted during the change of the decorative design, the effect button mark 13 ′ is displayed on the screen of the liquid crystal display device 36. If the left effect button 13 is not operated during the first operation effective period, the shape of the effect button mark 13 ′ gradually changes, but eventually the first operation effective period ends. In this case, the effect button mark 13 'disappears from the screen.

  Thereafter, the effect button mark 14 ′ is displayed on the screen of the liquid crystal display device 36, and the second operation valid period in which the operation of the center effect button 14 is effective starts. During the second operation valid period, the shape of the effect button mark 14 ′ gradually changes during the period when the center effect button 14 is not operated.

  When the player operates the center effect button 14, a predetermined effect D different from the effect C starts. The effect D is preferably an effect with an impact such that the movable accessory 37 drops at high speed (see FIG. 5C (b)).

  Thereafter, the decorative design stops in a hit or miss manner according to the lottery result. In addition, after the operation of the central effect button 14 described above, the operation of the central effect button 14 becomes invalid during the current symbol variation (shaded portion in the figure).

  Here, the left effect button 13 is instructed to operate first and the center effect button 14 is instructed to operate later, but the reverse order may be used. A difference may be provided in the operation opportunity of the effect buttons 13 and 14, and when the effect button with few operation opportunities (for example, the center effect button 14) is instructed first, the big hit expectation degree may be set higher.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 6C, an effect execution pattern in which the volume or light amount of the pachinko gaming machine 1 changes will be described as a modification example in the case where there is one effect button.

(E) Production execution pattern 5
The effect execution pattern 5 is a case where the effect button is operated during the operation effective period. Here, the case where the left effect button 13 is operated will be described, but the same applies when the center effect button 14 is operated.

  First, the BGM of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is increased in order to prompt the player to operate the left effect button 13 during the change of the decorative symbol. This means that the operation valid period during which the operation of the left effect button 13 is valid has been entered. The built-in lamp of the left effect button 13 may be turned on to notify that the operation is effective.

  The operation valid period is usually about 3 to 7 seconds. During a period when the left effect button 13 is not operated during the first operation valid period, the volume of the BGM gradually increases. Then, when the player operates the left effect button 13, an effect that a predetermined sound effect such as one notification sound is generated or BGM is changed is performed.

  Here, the volume at the time of the production is held at the volume when the player operates the left production button 13. In the present embodiment, a success effect and a failure effect corresponding to the success / failure result of the symbol variation are prepared. Thereby, for example, when performing a successful effect, it is possible to perform a powerful effect with a certain amount of volume.

  Thereafter, the decorative design stops in a hit or miss manner according to the lottery result. After the operation of the left effect button 13, the operation of the left effect button 13 becomes invalid during the current symbol variation (shaded portion in the figure).

  The LED of the pachinko gaming machine 1 may be gradually brightened during a period when the left effect button 13 is not operated during the operation effective period. For example, the brightness of the panel decoration LED 35 can be increased or the emission color can be increased. At this time, since the light amount of the LED is held at the light amount when the player operates the left effect button 13, the success effect can be performed enormously.

(F) Production execution pattern 6
The effect execution pattern 6 is a case where the effect button is operated in the operation effective period, but the volume after the effect button is operated is different from the effect execution pattern 5.

  When the operation effective period starts while the decorative symbol is changing, the BGM of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is increased in order to prompt the player to operate the left effect button 13. In addition, during the period in which the left effect button 13 is not operated during the operation effective period, the volume of the BGM gradually increases. Then, when the player operates the left effect button 13, an effect that a predetermined sound effect is generated or BGM is changed is performed.

  Here, the volume at the time of the production returns to the volume before the start of the operation valid period. For example, when a failure effect is performed according to the success / failure result of the symbol variation, it is not necessary to perform a powerful effect with a large volume. Accordingly, the effect execution pattern 6 is used in which the effect is performed by returning to the original volume. Note that the volume before the start of the operation valid period is not restored, but may be lowered to a predetermined volume.

  Thereafter, the decorative design stops in a hit or miss manner according to the lottery result. After the operation of the left effect button 13, the operation of the left effect button 13 becomes invalid during the current symbol variation (shaded portion in the figure).

  Here, the LED of the pachinko gaming machine 1 may be gradually brightened during the period when the left effect button 13 of the first operation effective period is not operated. The LED is not limited to the panel decoration LED 35, but includes a frame decoration LED 8 and a built-in lamp for a production button.

  The above change in volume or amount of light may be performed simultaneously with the change in effect button mark. Thereby, the start of the operation effective period becomes clearer, and the effect of prompting the player to operate the effect button is enhanced.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 7, the game management process performed on the main control side will be described. The game management process described below is a timer interrupt process that is executed for the main loop on the main control side when the power-on process ends normally.

  First, the main control means (main control board 24) performs timer management processing (step S10). The pachinko gaming machine 1 is provided with a plurality of timers such as a special symbol accessory operation timer, which will be described later, and clocks the time relating to the game.

  The main control means manages a number of timers by updating various timers (subtracting the timers) according to the processing state. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S20.

  In step S20, the main control means performs input management processing. This is a process of storing information input to various sensors of the pachinko gaming machine 1 in a winning counter. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S30.

  In step S30, the main control means performs a prize ball management process. This is a process performed when a game ball flowing down the game area of the game board 4 wins the first special symbol starting port 38a or the general winning port 42. For example, the general winning opening sensor 42c inside the general winning opening 42 detects a game ball and transmits a ball detection signal to the main control means.

  When receiving the above signal, the main control means transmits a control signal for paying out a predetermined number of prize balls to the payout control board 29 (further, the game ball payout device 19). At this time, if a special winning opening prize invalid flag, which will be described later, is turned on, a control signal for paying out a winning ball due to winning in the special winning opening is not transmitted and no payout is performed.

  Thereafter, the special winning opening prize invalid flag is set to OFF at a predetermined timing. As the predetermined timing, it is preferable to set the time when a match between the number of winnings and the number of winnings is confirmed (including power-off) or when a special game is finished.

  When receiving the control signal, the game ball payout device 19 pays out a predetermined number of prize balls to the upper storage tray 11 (or the lower storage tray 12 when the upper storage tray 11 is full). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S40.

  In step S40, the main control means performs a normal symbol management process. This is a process performed when a game ball flowing down the game area of the game board 4 passes through the normal symbol start gate 40. Specifically, the start gate passage sensor 40c inside the normal symbol start gate 40 detects a game ball that has passed through the gate, and transmits a ball detection signal to the main control means.

  When the main control means receives the signal, it obtains a random number for random drawing of normal symbols. A maximum of four lottery random numbers can be stored, and whether or not the lottery random numbers are determined is lottered in the order of storage.

  Further, the main control means transmits a control signal to the LED display device 43. In the LED display device 43, the normal symbol is changed by the blinking of the LED, and the normal symbol stops after displaying a winning or losing mode according to the lottery result after a predetermined time has elapsed. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S50.

  In step S50, the main control means performs a normal electric accessory management process. This is a process for controlling the operation of the ordinary electric accessory according to the lottery result of the ordinary symbol. In the normal symbol management process (step S40), when the normal symbol is stopped in the hit state, the main control means transmits a control signal to the solenoid for the ordinary electric accessory, and the second special symbol start port for a predetermined time. The opening / closing member 38b is opened.

  The main control means controls to close the opening / closing member when the predetermined time has elapsed or when a predetermined upper limit number of game balls have won the second special symbol start opening 38b before the predetermined time has elapsed. A signal is sent to the solenoid for an ordinary electric accessory. Thereby, the opening / closing member is closed.

  In the normal symbol management process, when the normal symbol is stopped in a disengaged manner, the opening / closing member is not opened, and the main control means does nothing and ends the normal electric accessory game process. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S60.

  In step S60, the main control means performs a special symbol management process. This is a process performed when a game ball flowing down the game area of the game board 4 wins the first special symbol start port 38a or the second special symbol start port 38b.

  Although details will be described later, when the start winning port sensor 38c detects a game ball, the start winning port sensor 38c transmits a ball detection signal to the main control means, and the main control means draws a special symbol.

  Further, the main control means transmits a control signal to the LED display device 43. In the LED display device 43, a special symbol is changed by a plurality of LEDs, and the special symbol stops in a hit or miss manner according to a lottery result after a predetermined time has elapsed. Furthermore, the variation of the special symbol is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 36 with a decorative symbol that can be surely recognized by the player. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S70.

  Finally, in step S70, the main control means performs a special electric accessory management process. This is a process of controlling the operation of the special electric accessory (large winning device 39) according to the lottery result of the special symbol.

  Although details will be described later, when the special symbol stops in a winning manner, it becomes a so-called big hit and a special game consisting of a plurality of rounds is given to the player. As will be described later, in the special symbol management process (step S60), when the special symbol is stopped in a detaching manner, the special electric accessory management process is immediately terminated. When the special electric accessory management process ends, the game management process also ends.

  Next, the special symbol management process performed in the game management process will be described with reference to FIG. In the special symbol management process, the main control means determines a special symbol operation status (waiting for variation, during variation, during confirmation time), which will be described later, and manages each processing.

  First, the main control means performs a start port check process 1 (step S61). This is to determine the winning of a game ball to the first special symbol start port 38a, store a big hit determination random number or the like in a reserved storage area, and create a reserved look-ahead command if necessary. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S62.

  In step S62, the main control means performs a start port check process 2. Here, the same process as the start opening check process 1 is performed for the winning of the game ball to the second special symbol start opening 38b. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S63.

  Next, the main control means determines whether or not the condition device operation flag is ON (step S63). The condition device is a device that operates when a condition for continuing the big hit is established when the big hit occurs.

  If the condition device operation flag is on, the determination is “YES”, and the process proceeds to step S68. On the other hand, if the condition device operation flag is not on, the determination is “NO”, and the process proceeds to step S64. That is, steps S64 to S67 are processing in the normal game mode in which no big hit has occurred.

  If the determination in step S63 is "NO", the main control means performs a special symbol operation status determination (step S64). If the special symbol operation status (hereinafter also referred to as a special symbol operation status) is set to “00H” or “01H”, the special symbol is “waiting for variation”, and the process proceeds to step S65.

  If the special figure operation status is set to “02H”, the special symbol is “changing”, and the process proceeds to step S66. Further, when the special figure operation status is set to “03H”, the special symbol “during confirmation time” is set, and the process proceeds to step S67. Hereinafter, each process of the special figure operation status will be described.

  First, with reference to FIGS. 9A and 9B, the special symbol variation start process performed in the special symbol management process will be described.

  First, in FIG. 9A, the main control means determines whether or not the special figure 2 reserved ball number is 0 (step S81). If the number of reserved balls in FIG. 2 is 0, the determination is “YES”, and the process proceeds to step S82. On the other hand, if the number of reserved balls in FIG. 2 is not 0, the determination is “NO” and the process proceeds to step S86 (see FIG. 9B).

  If the determination in step S81 is "YES", the main control means determines whether or not the special figure 1 reserved ball number is 0 (step S82). If the number of reserved balls in FIG. 1 is 0, the determination is “YES”, and the process proceeds to step S83. On the other hand, if the number of reserved balls in FIG. 1 is not 0, the determination is “NO” and the process proceeds to step S86 (see FIG. 9B).

  If the determination in step S82 is "YES", the main control means determines whether or not the special figure operation status is 00H (step S83). Although details will be described later, “01H” is set as the special figure operation status immediately after the special symbol confirmation time processing (FIG. 8: step S67) is executed.

  If the special figure operation status is “00H”, the determination is “YES”, and the special symbol variation start process is terminated. On the other hand, when the special figure operation status is not “00H” (in the case of “01H”), the determination is “NO”, and the process proceeds to step S84.

  If the determination in step S83 is “NO”, the main control means transmits a customer waiting demo command (step S84). The “customer waiting demonstration command” is sent from the main control means (main control board 24) to the sub-control means (when the number of held balls in both FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 is 0 and the special figure operation status is “01H”). It is transmitted toward the production control board 25). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S85.

  In step S85, the main control means sets 00H as the special figure operation status. With this set, the special symbol variation start process ends, but thereafter, in the special symbol variation start process, the process of “YES” in the determination of step S83 is repeated unless pending information is generated.

  When the determinations in step S81 and step S82 are “NO”, the main control means subtracts 1 from the number of reserved balls in FIG. 1 or FIG. 2 (FIG. 9B: step S86). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S87.

  In step S87, the main control means transmits a hold subtraction command. Since the main control means transmits a “hold subtraction command” to the sub control means, 1 is subtracted from the hold display of the LED display device 43 and the hold display displayed on the liquid crystal display device 36. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S88.

  In step S88, the main control means sets special symbol operation confirmation data. Specifically, “00H” is set as the special symbol operation confirmation data when special figure 1 starts to change, and “01H” is set when special figure 2 starts to change. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S89.

  In step S89, the main control means shifts the reserved storage area. The reserved storage areas 1 to 4 having the same number as the maximum number of reserves are shifted by 1 as the number of reserved balls is subtracted. At this time, 0 is set for the holding storage area 4 in which the latest holding information is stored. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S90.

  In step S90, the main control means performs a special electric accessory activation determination random number determination process. This is a so-called special drawing lottery process in which a random number determination process is performed by determining a hit random number determination table corresponding to a special figure. Also, a process for storing the big hit determination flag in the work area is performed. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S91.

  In step S91, the main control means performs a special stop symbol creation process. Here, a symbol table selection table corresponding to the special symbol is selected, and a random symbol value for symbol determination and a big hit determination flag are acquired to create a special symbol stop symbol. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S92.

  In step S92, the main control means performs a game state transition preparation process. Here, when the big hit determination flag is ON, the game state transition table corresponding to the big hit type is selected, and values are stored in various buffers with reference to this table. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S93.

  In step S93, the main control means performs special figure variation pattern creation processing. This is a process of selecting a variation pattern distribution table and creating a variation pattern of a special figure based on a variation pattern random number. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S94.

  In step S94, the main control means sets the changing flag in FIG. 1 or FIG. 2 to ON. Specifically, the changing flag of one special figure that will change from now on is turned on. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S95.

  In step S95, the main control means transmits a decorative design designation command. The decorative symbol is a symbol that is variably displayed on the liquid crystal display device 36. The main control means (main control board 24) creates a “decorative symbol designation command” and transmits it to the sub-control means (effect control board 25). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S96.

  Finally, the main control means performs various settings at the start of fluctuation (step S96). Specifically, “00H” (erase) is set in the random number storage area 0. Further, since the special symbol operation status is set to “02H” (being changed), in the next special symbol management process, in the special symbol operation status determination (FIG. 8: step S64), a special symbol changing process (described later) ( FIG. 8: Branches to step S66). Thereafter, the special symbol variation start process is terminated. Returning to FIG. 8, the process then proceeds to step S68 (described later).

  When the special symbol operation status determination (step S64) determines that the special symbol operation status is “02H” (during variation), the main control means performs special symbol variation processing (step S66).

  To briefly explain the special symbol variation processing, the main control means determines whether or not the special symbol accessory operation timer which is a timer related to the variation time of the special symbol is 0, and this timer becomes 0. In this case, a “variation stop command” is transmitted to the sub-control means.

  In addition, various settings at the time of variable stop are performed, but since the special symbol operation status is set to “03H” (during the confirmation time), in the next special symbol management process, in the special symbol operation status determination (step S64), The process branches to a special symbol checking time process (step S67) to be described later. Thereafter, the special symbol changing process is terminated. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S68 (described later).

  When the special symbol operation status is determined to be 03H (during confirmation time) in the special symbol operation status determination (step S64), the main control means performs special symbol confirmation time processing (step S67).

  The processing during the special symbol confirmation time will be briefly explained, but when the fluctuation of the special symbol is stopped, the main control means sets the big hit time, subtracts the number of short times, and subtracts the ST number which is the probability variation of the limited number of times. Etc.

  When the special symbol accessory time timer reaches 0, the special symbol operation status is set to 01H (waiting for variation), so in the next special symbol management process, the special symbol operation status determination (step S64) The process branches to the symbol variation start process (step S65). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S68.

  Finally, in step S68, the main control means updates the special symbol display data. Specifically, the special symbol of the LED display device 43 is updated. Thereafter, the special symbol management process is terminated.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 10, the special electric accessory management process performed in the game management process will be described. In the special electric accessory management process, the main control means is a special electric accessory operation status (a jackpot start process, a special electric accessory operation start process, a special electric accessory operation process, a special electric accessory operation continuation determination process, which will be described later. , Jackpot end processing) is determined, and each processing is managed.

  First, the main control means determines whether or not the condition device operation flag is ON (step S71). If the condition device operation flag is on, the determination is “YES”, and the process proceeds to step S72. On the other hand, if the condition device operation flag is not on, the determination is “NO”, and this process is terminated. That is, the processing after step S72 is processing when a big hit occurs.

  When the determination in step S71 is “YES”, the main control means performs a special electric accessory operation status determination (step S72). If the special electric accessory operation status (hereinafter also referred to as special electric operation status) is set to “00H”, it means “big hit start”, so the process proceeds to step S73.

  In the jackpot start process in step S73, various settings at the time of jackpot start for setting the total number of rounds and the like of the current special game (jackpot game) are performed. In this process, the special electric accessory operation status is set to “01H”. Further, the “big hit start interval command” is transmitted to the effect control board 25.

  Further, when the special electric operation status is set to “01H”, the special electric operation is being started, and thus the process proceeds to step S74. In the special electric accessory operation start process in step S74, after determining whether the big hit or the round is in progress, a “big prize opening command” is transmitted to the effect control board 25. In addition, various settings at the start of the opening operation are performed, and the special electric accessory operation status is set to “02H”.

  If the special operation status is set to “02H”, it means “special operation is in progress”, and the process proceeds to step S75. In the process of operating the special electric accessory in step S75, the maximum winning number of the big winning opening is mainly checked. When the maximum winning number is reached, the “interval between rounds command” is transmitted to the effect control board 25.

  Further, various settings at the end of the opening operation are performed, and the special electric accessory operation status is set to “03H”. If the special electric operation status is set to “03H”, the special electric operation continuation determination is in progress, and the process proceeds to step S76. In the special electric accessory operation continuation determination process in step S76, the number of rounds is counted by adding the continuous number counter until the current special game reaches the maximum number of rounds.

  If the maximum number of rounds has not been reached, various settings during continuation are performed, and the special electric accessory operation status is set to “01H”. When the maximum number of rounds is reached, various settings at the end are performed, and the special electric accessory operation status is set to “04H”. At this time, a “big hit end interval command” is transmitted to the effect control board 25.

  If the special operation status is set to “04H”, it is “being over big hit”, and the process proceeds to step S77. In the big hit end process of step S77, various settings at the time of the big hit end for resetting the above-mentioned condition device operation flag and the continuous number counter are performed.

  In this process, the special electric accessory operation status is set to “00H”. After these processes are completed, the main control means ends the special electric accessory management process.

  Below, with reference to FIG. 11, the main process performed by the sub-control side is demonstrated. This main process includes an initialization process that is performed when the sub-control means (the effect control board 25) is activated.

  First, the sub-control unit performs an initialization process (step S101). This mainly performs various initial settings of the sub-control means, and is performed only once at the time of activation. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S102.

  Next, the sub-control unit determines whether or not the main loop update period has been reached (step S102). The main loop is a process from steps S104 to S109 described later, and its update cycle is 16 ms.

  If the update period of 16 ms elapses when the process proceeds to step S102, the determination is “YES” and the process proceeds to step S104. On the other hand, in the state before 16 ms elapses, the update cycle is not reached, and therefore the determination is “NO”. In this case, the process proceeds to step S103.

  If the determination in step S102 is “NO”, the sub-control means performs various soft random number update processing (step S103). Thereafter, the processes in steps S102 and S103 are repeated until the determination in step S102 becomes “YES”. During this loop period, a timer interrupt process (see FIG. 12) with a period of 1 ms is executed. The sub-control means counts the number of interrupt processes and determines whether the above 16 ms has elapsed.

  If the determination in step S102 is “YES”, the sub-control means performs LED data update processing (step S104). As described above, steps S104 to S109 are main loop processing. Here, the data of the frame decoration LED 8 and the panel decoration LED 35 is updated to change the light emission mode of the decoration LED. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S105.

  In step S105, the sub control means performs a received command analysis process. This analyzes the type of the received control command and executes various processes according to the control command. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S106.

  In step S106, the sub control means performs a main scenario update process. Specifically, various production settings are made according to the control command. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S107.

  In step S107, the sub control means performs a sound output process. Specifically, sound is output from the speaker 7 according to the scenario. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S108.

  In step S108, the sub-control means performs solenoid update processing. Specifically, the detailed operation of the solenoid used in the special winning device 39 or the like is set. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S109.

  In step S109, the sub-control unit performs noise countermeasure processing. Specifically, it is checked whether the peripheral LSI is affected by noise. When this process ends, the process returns to step S102, and the subsequent processes are continued.

  Finally, timer interrupt processing will be described with reference to FIG. The timer interruption process is an interruption process executed at a cycle of 1 ms with respect to the production control side main process (FIG. 11).

  First, the sub control means initializes the CPU register (step S111). Specifically, the port refresh initial value is set. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S112.

  In step S112, the sub control means performs output processing. Specifically, output processing of a solenoid or a motor used for the movable accessory is performed. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S113.

  In step S113, the sub control means performs an effect button input state update process. Specifically, the input state is updated when the production buttons 13 and 14 are operated. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S114.

  In step S114, the sub control means performs a switch input state update process. Specifically, input information such as the volume switch 31 is confirmed, and processing corresponding to the information is performed. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S115.

  In step S115, the sub control means performs a liquid crystal control command transmission process. For example, the effect control board 25 transmits an effect command selected by the effect counter to the liquid crystal control board 26. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S116.

  In step S116, the sub control means performs a motor update process. Specifically, the detailed operation setting of the motor used for the movable accessory is performed. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S117.

  In step S117, the sub-control means performs LED data output processing. Specifically, LED data output for turning on and blinking the frame decoration LED 8 and the panel decoration LED 35 at a necessary timing is performed. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S118.

  In step S118, the sub control means performs an effect execution process. Specifically, the selected effect at the time of symbol variation and the effect that starts or changes by the operation of the effect buttons 13 and 14 are executed. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S119.

  Finally, the sub-control means increments the main loop update cycle work by 1 (step S119). This is a process of incrementing the main loop update cycle work by 1 in order to count 16 ms, which is the update cycle of the above-described main loop processing (FIG. 11: steps S104 to S109). Thereafter, the timer interrupt process is terminated. The series of operations of the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment has been described above.

  In the above-described embodiment, there is an operation means for performing an effect according to the determination result of the success / failure when the player operates. In the operation effective period, display for prompting the player to operate the operation means is performed, but the display mode changes during the period until the operation means is operated. As a result, the player actively participates in the production using the operation means, and the operating rate of the gaming machine can be increased.

  The above embodiment is an example of the present invention, and various modifications that can implement the present invention can be considered.

  The effect button mark can be changed in size, color, and pattern only after a predetermined time has elapsed (see FIG. 6A). In this case, the display mode of the effect button mark that is displayed first is the same every time, and the player cannot predict the jackpot expectation when it appears.

  Therefore, the player who wants to know the expected degree of jackpot from the display mode of the effect button mark waits for the passage of time and confirms the change before operating the effect button. On the other hand, a player who does not want to know the degree of expectation of jackpot can immediately select the desired button by operating the effect button.

  Because you do not want to know the big hit expectation level from the display mode of the production button mark, even if you operated the production button right away, if you know the specific big hit expectation level from the resulting production contents, the reach production itself There is a possibility that the expectation will be lost. Therefore, it is desirable that the content produced by the operation of the effect button is an ambiguous effect when operated in the first half of the operation effective period, and a specific effect is performed when operated in the second half.

  The effect (see FIGS. 5A and 5C) by the operation of the effect button in the embodiment was executed during the symbol variation, but the effect of the re-lottery (re-variation) performed after the symbols were arranged in a big hit mode. Or, it may be used as an effect performed in a special game.

  In addition, the jackpot fluctuation pattern that has been put on hold is determined in advance and used for the advance notice, so-called look-ahead notice, multiple symbol fluctuations (a case where it fluctuates in a pseudo manner and a case where a plurality of hold cases are actually used) A production button mark may be displayed across the screen. In this case, since the display mode is more in line with the expectation level for big hits, the effect of urging the player to perform an operation can be expected as the hold that is the target of the big hits is approached.

  There may be three or more operating means. For example, when there are three operation means, the first operation means is not operated and the first operation effective period ends, and the second effective operation means is not operated and the second operation effective period ends. At this time, a third operation effective period in which the operation of the third operation means is effective starts.

  In the operation of the third operation means, an effect different from the effect executed if the first and second operation means are operated is executed. For example, an effect executed when the third operating means is operated can be set as an effect with the highest impact.

  Further, the higher the number of operation means that are instructed to operate, the higher the degree of expectation of winning. Therefore, the operation is instructed to the third operating means only when the degree of expectation of winning is extremely high. In this way, by increasing the number of operation means, various effects can be executed, and the gaming machine is highly interesting.

  The operation of the production button includes repeated hits and long presses. In other words, a predetermined effect can be executed by the player repeatedly hitting or long pressing the effect button. At this time, it is also possible to provide a gauge for displaying characters such as “Please hit repeatedly!” Or displaying the number of repeated hits.

  In addition, the production by the operation of the production button is not limited to the one displayed on the screen of the liquid crystal display device 36, and the number of LEDs that light up with the change of the production button mark is increased, or the voice such as “press quickly” from the speaker. May be produced.

  As described above, the pachinko gaming machine has been described as the present embodiment, but the present invention is not limited to this, and a sparrow ball type gaming machine, an arrangement ball machine, an enclosing type gaming machine, a revolving type gaming machine provided with an effect selection means, The present invention can also be applied to a rotating game machine (so-called parrot machine) in which a game ball is used as a game medium.

  In particular, in a spinning-type game machine, a series of effect display is started from a start operation (inserting a medal and turning on the lever), and the effect is switched for each stop operation (first stop button operation to third stop button operation). There are many things like this. Thereby, for example, when the start button is operated, the effect button mark in the normal mode is displayed, and when the first stop button is pressed without operating the effect button, the display mode of the effect button mark changes, and when the second stop button is pressed as it is. Further, it may be changed. In addition, the display of the effect button mark continues not only during one game (from the start operation to the stop operation) but also over a plurality of games, and the display mode changes during the non-operation period. It can also be.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Pachinko machine 2 Outer frame 3 Front frame 4 Game board 4a Game area 4b Decoration board 5 Front door 6 Glass board 7 Speaker 8 Frame decoration LED
9 Front plate 10 Launch handle 10a Launcher 11 Upper storage tray 12 Lower storage tray 12a Lower storage tray full sensor 13 Left effect button (operation means)
14 Center effect button (Operating means)
16 Back mechanism board 17 Game ball storage tank 18 Tank rail 19 Game ball dispensing device 21 External terminal board 22 Terminal board case 23 Back cover 24 Main control board (Attack judgment means)
24a main control board case 25 effect control board 25a effect control board case 26 liquid crystal control board 26a liquid crystal control board case 27 RAM clear switch 28 power supply board 28a power supply board case 29 payout control board 29a payout control board case 30 launch control board 31 volume switch 33 Stage member 34a Center ornament 34b Left corner ornament 34c Right corner ornament 35a, 35b Panel decoration LED
36 Liquid crystal display (display means)
37 Movable accessory 38 Start winning device 38a First special symbol starting port 38b Second special symbol starting port 38c Starting winning port sensor 39 Large winning device 39c Large winning port sensor 40 Normal symbol starting gate 40c Start gate passing sensor 41 Windmill
42 General winning opening 42c General winning opening sensor 43 LED display device 44 Guide rail 44a Outer guide rail 44b Inner guide rail 45 Launch passage 46 Return ball prevention piece 47 Out ball collection port 48 Ball gathering part 50 Magnetic sensor 51 Radio wave sensor 52 Vibration sensor

Claims (7)

Display means for variably displaying various symbols;
A determination unit for determining whether or not to win or fail;
An operation means for producing an effect according to a determination result by the success / failure determination means when a player operates during the operation valid period;
In the display means, a game machine in which a display prompting a player to operate the operation means is performed,
The gaming machine characterized in that the display mode changes during a period from the start of the operation effective period to the operation of the operation means. In the gaming machine according to claim 1,
An effect that is executed when a player operates the operation means during the operation valid period varies depending on the display mode when the operation means is operated. Display means for variably displaying various symbols;
A determination unit for determining whether or not to win or fail;
When the player operates during the operation valid period, the apparatus includes at least two operation means for performing an effect according to the determination result by the success / failure determination means,
In the display means, a game machine in which a display prompting a player to operate the operation means is performed,
The gaming machine characterized in that the display mode changes during a period from the start of the operation effective period to the operation of the operation means. The gaming machine according to claim 3,
After the end of the first operation effective period in which the operation of the first operation means becomes effective, the second operation effective period in which the operation of the second operation means different from the first operation means becomes effective starts. A gaming machine characterized by In the gaming machine according to claim 4,
A game machine characterized in that an effect executed by an operation of the first operation means is different from an effect executed by an operation of the second operation means. In the gaming machine according to any one of claims 3 to 5,
A gaming machine, wherein the display changes in size, color, or pattern. In the gaming machine according to any one of claims 3 to 6,
A gaming machine characterized in that the greater the number of operation means to be operated, the higher the degree of expectation of winning.