JP2015134094A - Game board - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game board with high taste of a game.SOLUTION: A Pachinko game machine executes a plurality of read-ahead performances (a first read-ahead performance to a third read-ahead performance) at any of performance modes having different jackpot reliability degrees corresponding to respective different performance modes. Further, the Pachinko game machine executes a forenotice performance in a performance mode to be selected based on a selection reference determined according to a content of the executed read-ahead performance. Here, the Pachinko game machine specifies a read-ahead performance with high jackpot reliability out of executed read-ahead performances and determines the selection reference of the forenotice performance according to the specified read-ahead performance.

Description

  The present invention relates to a game board used for a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine.

  As a gaming machine, after the game medium passes through the start area (start winning prize opening), the identification information is variably displayed based on the fact that a predetermined start condition is satisfied, and a specific display result (big hit) is displayed as the display result of the identification information. Some of them control to a specific gaming state (big hit gaming state) that is advantageous to the player when the symbol is derived and displayed.

  In such a gaming machine, an effect of notifying whether or not a specific display result is derived as a display result of a variable display that has passed through the start area of the game medium but the start condition is not yet established (pre-read effect) Is known (for example, Patent Document 1). In the gaming machine of Patent Literature 1, a plurality of prefetch effects such as a first prefetch effect and a second prefetch effect are simultaneously executed.

  Furthermore, in addition to the pre-reading effect, an effect (notice effect) for notifying whether or not the specific display result is derived as the display result of the variable display (the variable display) being executed after the start condition is satisfied is executed. Is also known (for example, Patent Document 2). In the gaming machine of Patent Literature 2, by determining the aspect of the notice effect to be executed during the variable display on the basis of the effect contents of the executed prefetch effect, the aspect of the notice effect appropriately according to the content of the prefetch effect To decide.

JP 2009-148610 A JP 2010-110442 A

  In a gaming machine that executes a plurality of pre-reading effects, it is conceivable that the aspect of the notice effect that is executed during the variable display is determined based on the contents of the effect of the executed pre-reading effects. However, by combining the techniques described in Patent Literature 1 and Patent Literature 2 and determining the effect mode of the notice effect based on the effect content of one prefetch effect among the plurality of prefetch effects, the effect content of other prefetch effects On the other hand, it is not possible to select an appropriate mode, and there is a possibility that the interest of the game is reduced by executing the notice effect in an inappropriate mode.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to provide a game board that is highly interesting for games.

  (1) In order to achieve the above object, the game board of the present invention has a game medium (for example, a game ball or the like) in a start area (for example, a first start winning opening formed by the normal winning ball apparatus 6A or an ordinary variable winning ball apparatus). 6B, the identification information (for example, a special symbol, a decorative symbol, etc.) is variably displayed based on the fact that a predetermined start condition has been established, and the identification information is displayed. As a result, the game board is controlled to a specific gaming state (for example, a big hit game state) advantageous to the player when a specific display result (for example, a big decorative symbol or a combination of big hit symbols) is derived and displayed. A plurality of types of winning areas (first starting winning opening, second starting winning opening, large winning opening (special variable winning ball apparatus 7), including the starting areas (first starting winning opening, second starting winning opening), and Regular prize opening A winning ball apparatus 6A, a normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B)) and variable display holding storage information (for example, a first upper limit storage number) in which the game medium has passed through the start area but the start condition is not yet satisfied. 1 and the second special figure hold storage number each within the range of “4” or less) and the like, based on the hold storage information (for example, the first and second special figure hold storage unit) In addition, determination means before starting condition is established that determines whether or not the display result of the variable display in which the start condition is not satisfied becomes the specific display result (for example, the CPU 103 that executes the winning random number determination processing in step S211A). And a pre-reading effect that predicts the possibility that the display result of the variable display becomes the specific display result before the variable display corresponding to the determination result is started based on the determination result of the determination means before the start condition is established. The The pre-reading effect executing means (for example, the effect control CPU 120 for executing the pre-reading effect executing process in step S162) and the variable display based on the hold storage information when the variable display start condition is satisfied. The start condition establishment time determination means (for example, the CPU 103 that determines the special figure display result in step S240) and the determination result of the start condition establishment time determination means for determining whether or not the display result is the specific display result. Based on a plurality of effect modes (for example, notice effect modes YEP1-1 to YEP1-4, YEP2−) that are different in possibility that the display result of the variable display becomes a specific display result during the variable display where the start condition is satisfied. 1 to YEP2-4, for example, a notice effect executing means for executing the notice effect in any one of the effect modes (for example, in step S464) Effect control CPU 120 for executing the output operation control) and signal output means (for example, a game control micro) for outputting a signal (winning information signal) that can specify the winning area and the number of winnings that the game medium has won. The computer 100 includes a portion that executes the information output process of S13), and the prefetching effect executing means can execute a first prefetching effect (for example, the first or second prefetching effect). Execution means (for example, an effect control CPU 120 that executes step S302 if the first prefetching effect is the first prefetching effect, and executes S304 if the first prefetching effect is the second prefetching effect), and the determination result The second pre-reading effect (for example, the first pre-reading effect is the first pre-reading effect) is different from the first pre-reading effect in the ratio of the variable display corresponding to the specific display result. The second or third prefetching effect can be executed in the form that can be distinguished from the first prefetching effect. 2 pre-reading effect execution means (for example, the CPU 120 for effect control that executes S304 when the second pre-reading effect is the second pre-reading effect, and S306 when the second pre-reading effect is), The notice effect execution means includes both the first pre-read effect and the second pre-read effect, and the pre-read effect having a high ratio of the specific display result among the executed pre-read effects. When the ratio is higher than a specific ratio (for example, the first specific ratio or the second specific ratio), the start condition is satisfied with respect to the execution ratio when the determination result of the start condition satisfaction determination means is not the specific display result. Time decisive factor When the stage determination result is the specific display result, the notice effect is executed in an effect mode in which the execution ratio is higher than a predetermined reference (for example, when the effect control CPU 120 determines the middle reference in step S502) When the high standard is determined with the selection ratio of FIG. 30B or FIG. 31B, the portion of the notice effect is determined with the selection ratio of FIG. 30C or FIG. It is characterized by that.

  After a pre-reading effect with a high specific display result (high jackpot reliability) is executed, if a notice effect with a low specific display result (low jackpot reliability) is executed, the player is discouraged. There is a fear. According to such a configuration, when a pre-reading effect in which the ratio of the specific display result is higher than the specific ratio is executed, the start condition establishment time determining means determines the execution ratio when the specific display result is not the specific display result. Since the announcement effect is executed in an effect mode in which the execution ratio when the determination result is the specific display result is higher than a predetermined reference, it is possible to prevent the player from being discouraged. Therefore, the interest of the game can be enhanced.

  (2) In the game board of (1), the notice effect executed by the notice effect execution means is a pre-reach notice effect executed before the identification information enters a predetermined reach state (for example, the reach shown in FIG. 10). And a post-reach notice effect (for example, a pre-reach notice effect shown in FIG. 10) executed after the reach state is reached, and the notice effect executing means performs the pre-reach notice effect. (E.g., any one of FIGS. 30A to 30C is selected in step S504 in accordance with the selection criterion determined in step S502 by the effect control CPU 120). Or a portion for executing a pre-reach notice at a selected ratio).

  According to such a configuration, it is possible to appropriately determine the effect mode of the pre-reach notice effect with a high degree of attention among the pre-reach notice effect and the post-reach notice effect according to the execution content of the pre-read effect. Therefore, the discouragement of the player can be prevented and the interest of the game can be enhanced.

  (3) In the gaming board of (1) or (2), after the temporary display of the temporary stop identification information is temporarily stopped from the start of the variable display of the identification information until the display result is derived and displayed, the variable display is again displayed. Re-variable display execution means for executing re-variable display to be executed (for example, “pseudo-continuous” pseudo continuous variation) once or a plurality of times (for example, the variation pattern command indicating the variation pattern including the “pseudo-continuous” by the effect control CPU 120 On the basis of the temporary stop symbol determined in step S431, the effect control pattern determined in step S433, and the like. The notice effect executing means executes the notice effect a plurality of times before the identification information reaches a reach state in the variable display where the re-variable display is executed. Both of the notice effects that are executed a plurality of times, for example, a notice effect that is executed at a predetermined timing (for example, a notice effect before re-variation) is executed in an effect mode higher than the predetermined reference (for example, effect control). CPU 120 for executing the pre-re-change notice effect etc. at any of the selection ratios in FIGS. 30A to 30C according to the selection criteria determined at step S502). Also good.

  According to such a configuration, when the notice effect is executed a plurality of times, the effect form of the notice effect that is executed at a predetermined timing can be appropriately determined according to the execution content of the prefetch effect. Therefore, since the disappointment of the player can be prevented, the interest of the game is improved.

  (4) In the game board of any one of (1) to (3), the predetermined criterion is that the ratio of the specific display result corresponding to the effect mode of the notice effect to be executed is the specific display result. Is set so as to be included in a range of a predetermined reduction range (for example, the first reduction range, the second reduction range, etc.) from the ratio of the pre-reading effect with a high rate (for example, the effect control CPU 120 performs specific display) When the middle standard in FIG. 29 is determined according to the look-ahead effect with a high ratio (big hit reliability) as a result, the reliability category is “low” as shown in FIGS. 30 (B) and 31 (B). (If a high criterion equal to or higher than “reliability” is determined, as shown in FIG. 30 (C) and FIG. 31 (C)) It is good also as.

  According to such a configuration, it is possible to limit the possibility that the specific display result indicated by the pre-reading effect will be a small specific display result beyond the predetermined reduction range from being indicated by the notice effect. . Therefore, since the expectation heightened by the pre-reading effect can be prevented from being lost by the notice effect, the interest of the game is improved.

  (5) In the game board according to any one of (1) to (4), the first pre-reading effect executing means has a plurality of stages with different ratios corresponding to the different display modes. First prefetch effects (for example, a plurality of first prefetch effects or second prefetch effects corresponding to the first to third stages) can be executed, and the second prefetch effect execution means are different from each other. A plurality of second pre-reading effects (for example, when the first pre-reading effect is the first pre-reading effect, the first to third stages are different in proportion to the stage of the specific display result corresponding to the effect mode. A plurality of corresponding second or third pre-reading effects, a plurality of third pre-reading effects corresponding to the first to third stages in the case of the second pre-reading effects, etc.) and the first The pre-reading effect execution means In the case of executing in the production mode corresponding to the stage where the ratio of the constant display result is low, the execution of the second pre-reading effect corresponding to the stage where the ratio of the specific display result is low is limited (FIG. 25B). And FIG. 26B).

  According to such a configuration, it is possible to prevent a player from being discouraged by executing a plurality of pre-reading effects in an effect mode corresponding to a stage where the ratio of specific display results is low.

It is a front view of the pachinko gaming machine in this embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the various control boards etc. which were mounted in the pachinko game machine. It is explanatory drawing which illustrates the random number for game counted on the main board side. It is a figure which illustrates a fluctuation pattern. It is a figure which illustrates a variation pattern classification. It is a figure which shows the structural example of a special figure display result determination table. It is a figure which shows the structural example of a big hit classification determination table. It is a figure which shows the structural example of a variation pattern classification determination table. It is a figure which shows the structural example of a fluctuation pattern determination table. It is a figure which shows the execution timing of a prefetch effect and a notice effect. It is a figure which shows the execution timing of a notice effect. It is a figure which shows the structural example of an effect control pattern. FIG. 38 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of an effect control data holding area. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the timer interruption process for game control. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a special symbol process process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a start winning determination process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a random value determination process at the time of winning. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a special symbol normal process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a fluctuation pattern setting process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of production control main processing. It is a flowchart which shows an example of production control process processing. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a prefetch effect determination process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a prefetch effect determination process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a prefetch effect execution process. It is a figure which illustrates the determination rate about the presence or absence of prefetching production execution. It is a figure which illustrates the determination rate about the presence or absence of prefetching production execution. It is a figure which illustrates the determination rate about the presence or absence of prefetching production execution. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a variable display start setting process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a notice effect selection process. It is a figure which shows the example of determination of the notice effect selection criteria. It is a figure which illustrates the selection ratio of the presence or absence of a notice effect execution, and a notice effect aspect. It is a figure which illustrates the selection ratio of the presence or absence of a notice effect execution, and a notice effect aspect. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the production process during variable display. It is a figure which shows the example of determination of the notice effect selection criteria which concerns on the modification 2. FIG. It is a figure which shows the example of determination of the notice effect selection criteria which concerns on the modification 3. FIG. It is a front view which shows a card unit and a pachinko machine. It is a block diagram which shows the control circuit used for a card unit and a pachinko machine. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the notification process of the operating / non-operating information from a pachinko machine. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the various data memorize | stored in the card unit side and the pachinko machine side, and its transmission / reception. It is explanatory drawing explaining the outline of the command and response which are transmitted / received between a card unit and a pachinko machine. It is a figure which shows an example of a process with the card unit and the pachinko machine at the time of power activation. It is a figure which shows an example of a process with a card unit and a pachinko machine when a card is inserted in a card unit. It is a flowchart figure which shows the process at the time of insertion which a card unit performs when a card | curd is inserted in a card unit. It is a conceptual diagram for explaining the relationship between a CU state and a card insertion state included in a card insertion notification command and a state information request command. It is a figure which shows an example of a process with a card unit and a pachinko machine when lending a ball from the prepaid balance of the inserted card. It is a figure which shows an example of a process with a card unit and a pachinko machine when paying out a lot of balls and paying out a stored ball. It is a figure which shows an example of the normal process of a card unit and a pachinko machine when counting game balls. It is a sequence diagram for demonstrating the process of the count history data memorize | stored by P units. It is a figure which shows an example of the count process when a player performs card return operation. It is a figure which shows an example of a process when there exists a power supply disconnection and a communication line disconnection, and the command of the status information request | requirement from a card unit to a pachinko machine has not reached | attained. It is a figure which shows an example of the process which reads the count log | history memorize | stored in P units to CU. It is a figure for demonstrating the flow of the historical information (machine history information) from the shipment of the game machine which concerns on this embodiment to disposal. It is a figure which shows the detail of the flow until shipping information is registered into the machine history management center which concerns on this embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the specific content of shipping information. It is a figure which shows the detail of the flow until installation information is registered into the machine history management center which concerns on this embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the content of the installation information input into the machine history management center in FIG. It is a figure which shows the flow until removal information is registered into the machine history management center which concerns on this embodiment. It is a figure which shows the flow until discard information is registered into the machine history management center which concerns on this embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the content of the discard information input into a machine history management center. It is the schematic for demonstrating the history management of the front frame and game board which concern on this embodiment. It is the schematic of the table which memorize | stores the information of a frame, and the information of a game board, in order to perform machine history management of a front frame and a game board. 10 is a flowchart for explaining abnormality determination processing for management of a front frame and a game board by a machine history management center. FIG. 63 is a diagram describing a table referred to in the flowchart shown in FIG. 62. It is the schematic for demonstrating the communication performed between a main control part, the payout control part, and communication control IC. It is a block diagram for demonstrating the structure of the communication control circuit for carrying out encryption communication with the payout control part. It is a block diagram for demonstrating the structure of the communication control circuit for carrying out encryption communication with the main control part. It is a block diagram for demonstrating the structure of the communication control circuit for carrying out encryption communication with communication control IC. It is a flowchart for demonstrating a recovery completion confirmation process. It is explanatory drawing explaining the outline of the command and response which are transmitted / received between the main control part and the payout control part. It is a figure which shows the communication sequence between a main control part and a payout control part. It is a figure which shows an example of a process when there exists a power-off and a communication line disconnection, and the command of the game state notification from the main control part to the payout control part has not reached | attained. It is a figure for demonstrating the mechanism of a detection when P stand connected to the game board development jig is connected to commercial CU by unit exchange. It is a figure for demonstrating the mechanism of a detection when P stand connected to CU for development is connected to commercial CU by unit exchange. It is a figure for demonstrating the mechanism of a detection when a game machine simulator is connected to commercial CU. It is a perspective view which shows the state which opened the front door of the slot machine. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the various data memorize | stored in each of a card unit and a slot machine, and its transmission / reception aspect.

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

  A first special symbol display device 4A and a second special symbol display device 4B are provided at predetermined positions of the game board 2 (in the example shown in FIG. 1, on the right side of the game area). Each of the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B is composed of, for example, 7-segment or dot matrix LEDs (light emitting diodes) and the like. Special symbols (also referred to as “special graphics”), which are a plurality of types of identification information (special identification information) that can be displayed, are variably displayed (variable display). For example, the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B each variably display a plurality of types of special symbols composed of numbers indicating "0" to "9", symbols indicating "-", and the like. To do. The special symbols displayed on the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B are limited to those composed of numbers indicating "0" to "9", symbols indicating "-", and the like. However, for example, a plurality of types of lighting patterns in which the combination of the LED to be turned on and the LED to be turned off in the 7-segment LED may be set in advance as a plurality of types of special symbols. A plurality of special symbols are assigned symbol numbers corresponding thereto. As an example, symbol numbers “0” to “9” are assigned to numbers indicating “0” to “9”, and symbol numbers “10” are assigned to symbols indicating “−”. Just do it. Hereinafter, the special symbol variably displayed on the first special symbol display device 4A is also referred to as "first special symbol", and the special symbol variably displayed on the second special symbol display device 4B is also referred to as "second special symbol". .

  Both the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B are formed, for example, in a square shape. Note that the type of the first special figure and the type of the second special figure may be the same (for example, a number indicating “0” to “9” and a symbol indicating “−”), and the type may be different. May be different. Further, each of the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B may be configured to variably display numbers (or two-digit symbols) indicating, for example, “00” to “99”. .

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

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

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

  The decorative symbols variably displayed in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R include, for example, eight types of symbols (alphanumeric characters “1” to “8” or Chinese characters). Numbers, English characters, 8 character images related to a predetermined motif, combinations of numbers, characters, symbols, and character images, etc. Note that character images are, for example, people, animals, objects other than these, or characters Or a decorative image showing any other figure). In addition to these eight types of decorative symbols, a blank symbol (a symbol that does not constitute a jackpot combination) may be included. A corresponding symbol number is assigned to each of the decorative symbols. For example, symbol numbers “1” to “8” are assigned to alphanumeric characters indicating “1” to “8”, respectively. Note that the number of decorative symbols is not limited to eight, and may be any number as long as an appropriate number of combinations such as a jackpot combination or a combination that is lost can be configured (for example, seven types or nine types).

  After the decorative symbol variable display is started, the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R are displayed until the fixed decorative symbol that is the variable display result is derived and displayed. In FIG. 5, for example, scroll display is performed such that the symbol number sequentially flows from the top to the bottom from the smallest to the largest, and when the decorative symbol having the largest symbol number (for example, “8”) is displayed, The decorative symbol having the smallest symbol number (for example, “1”) is displayed. Alternatively, in at least one of the decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R (for example, the “left” decorative symbol display area 5L), the symbols are scrolled from the largest symbol number to the smallest symbol symbol. When the decorative design having the smallest number is displayed, the decorative design having the largest design number may be displayed.

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

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

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

  In the start winning memory display area 5H, for example, in a plurality of display parts, by changing between non-display (transparent color) and predetermined color display (for example, blue display, red display, etc.) It suffices if the second special figure hold storage number can be distinguished and displayed. Only the total number of reserved memories may be displayed so as to be specified. Moreover, you may display the number which shows the number of special figure reservation memories. In addition to the start winning memory display area 5H or in place of the start winning memory display area 5H, a display for displaying the number of special figure reserved memories may be provided. In the example shown in FIG. 1, together with the start winning memory display area 5H, the first hold for displaying the special figure hold memory number in an identifiable manner on the upper part of the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B. A display 25A and a second hold display 25B are provided. The first hold indicator 25A displays the first special figure hold memory number so that it can be specified. The second hold indicator 25B displays the second special figure hold memory number so that it can be specified. Each of the first hold indicator 25A and the second hold indicator 25B has a number (for example, 4) corresponding to an upper limit value (for example, “4”) in each of the first special figure hold memory number and the second special figure hold memory number, for example. LED).

  In addition, around the image display device 5 such as an upper portion and a lower portion of the image display device 5, a plurality of effect movable members 32 </ b> A to 32 </ b> C configured to be capable of operations such as rotation and vibration are provided. The effect movable members 32A to 32C are used for a predetermined prefetch effect by being driven by a predetermined operation by the movable member drive motors 33A to 33C shown in FIG.

  Below the image display device 5, an ordinary winning ball device 6A and an ordinary variable winning ball device 6B are provided. The normal winning ball device 6A forms a first start winning opening that is always kept in a certain open state by a predetermined ball receiving member, for example. The normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B has an electric motor having a pair of movable wing pieces that are changed into a normal open state as a vertical position and an expanded open state as a tilt position by a solenoid 81 for a normal electric accessory shown in FIG. A tulip-shaped accessory (ordinary electric accessory) is provided to form a second start winning opening. As an example, in the normally variable winning ball apparatus 6B, the movable wing piece is in the vertical position when the solenoid 81 for the normal electric accessory is in the OFF state, so that the game ball passes (enters) the second starting winning opening. It is difficult to open normally. On the other hand, in the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B, the game ball passes through the second start winning opening by the tilt control in which the movable blade piece is tilted when the solenoid 81 for the normal electric accessory is in the ON state ( It will be in an expanded open state that is easy to enter. In the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B, although the game ball can enter the second start winning opening even in the normal open state, there is a possibility that the game ball may enter more than in the expanded open state. You may comprise so that it may become low. Alternatively, the normally variable winning ball apparatus 6B may be configured such that the game ball does not enter the second starting winning opening in the normally open state, for example, by closing the second starting winning opening.

  A game ball that has passed (entered) the first start winning opening formed in the normal winning ball apparatus 6A is detected by, for example, a first start opening switch 22A shown in FIG. The game ball that has passed (entered) the second start winning opening formed in the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B is detected by, for example, the second start opening switch 22B shown in FIG. Based on the detection of the game ball by the first start port switch 22A, a predetermined number (for example, three) of game balls are paid out as prize balls, and the first special figure holding memory number is set to a predetermined upper limit value (for example, “ 4 ") If the following, the first start condition is satisfied. Based on the detection of the game ball by the second start port switch 22B, a predetermined number (for example, three) of game balls are paid out as prize balls, and the second special figure holding memory number is set to a predetermined upper limit value (for example, “ 4 ") If the following, the second start condition is satisfied. The number of prize balls to be paid out based on the detection of the game ball by the first start port switch 22A and the number of prize balls to be paid out based on the detection of the game ball by the second start port switch 22B. May be the same number or different numbers.

  A special variable winning ball device 7 is provided below the normal winning ball device 6A and the normal variable winning ball device 6B. The special variable winning ball apparatus 7 includes a large winning opening door that is opened and closed by a solenoid 82 for the large winning opening door shown in FIG. 2, and changes into an open state and a closed state by the large winning opening door. Forming a mouth. As an example, in the special variable winning ball apparatus 7, when the solenoid 82 for the special prize opening door is in the off state, the special prize opening door closes the special prize opening. On the other hand, in the special variable winning ball apparatus 7, when the solenoid 82 for the big prize opening door is in the ON state, the big prize opening door opens the big winning opening. A game ball that has passed (entered) through a special winning opening formed in the special variable winning ball apparatus 7 is detected by, for example, a count switch 23 shown in FIG.

  Based on the detection of game balls by the count switch 23, a predetermined number (for example, 15) of game balls are paid out as prize balls. In this way, when the game ball passes (enters) through the large winning opening opened in the special variable winning ball apparatus 7, the gaming ball passes through other winning openings such as the first starting winning opening and the second starting winning opening, for example. More prize balls are paid out than when passing (entering). Therefore, if the special prize winning ball device 7 is in the open state, the game ball can enter the special prize winning opening, which is a first state advantageous to the player. On the other hand, when the special prize winning device 7 is closed in the special variable prize winning ball device 7, it becomes impossible or difficult for the player to get a prize ball by passing (entering) the gaming ball into the special prize winning port. This is a disadvantageous second state.

  A normal symbol display 20 is provided at a predetermined position of the game board 2 (on the left side of the game area in the example shown in FIG. 1). As an example, the normal symbol display 20 is composed of 7 segments, dot matrix LEDs, and the like, like the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B, and a plurality of types of identification information different from the special symbols. Is displayed (variably displayed) in a variable manner. Such variable display of normal symbols is called a general game (also referred to as “normal game”). The normal symbol display 20 variably displays, for example, a plurality of types of normal symbols composed of numbers indicating “0” to “9”, symbols indicating “−”, and the like. A plurality of types of normal symbols are assigned symbol numbers corresponding thereto. As an example, symbol numbers “0” to “9” are assigned to numbers indicating “0” to “9”, and symbol numbers “10” are assigned to symbols indicating “−”. Just do it. The normal symbol display 20 is not limited to the one that variably displays the numbers indicating “0” to “9” or the symbols indicating “−” as normal symbols. For example, “O” and “X” are displayed. Ordinary symbols are variably displayed by alternately lighting the decorative lamps (or LEDs) to be displayed, or by lighting a plurality of decorative lamps (or LEDs) such as “left”, “middle”, and “right” in a predetermined order. It may be a thing. Above the normal symbol display 20, a universal figure holding display 25 </ b> C is provided. The general-purpose hold indicator 25C includes, for example, four LEDs, and displays the general-purpose hold storage number as the number of effective passing balls that have passed through the passing gate 41.

  In addition to the above-described configuration, the surface of the game board 2 is provided with a windmill for changing the flow direction and speed of the game ball and a number of obstacle nails. In addition, as a winning opening different from the first starting winning opening, the second starting winning opening, and the large winning opening, for example, a single or plural general winning openings that are always kept in a certain open state by a predetermined ball receiving member are provided. May be. In this case, a predetermined number (for example, 10) of game balls may be paid out as a prize ball based on the fact that a game ball that has entered one of the general prize openings is detected by a predetermined general prize ball switch. In the lowermost part of the game area, there is provided an out port through which game balls that have not entered any winning port are taken. Speakers 8L and 8R for reproducing and outputting sound effects and the like are provided at the left and right upper positions of the gaming machine frame 3, and a game effect lamp 9 is provided at the periphery of the game area. A decorative LED may be arranged around each structure (for example, the normal winning ball device 6A, the normal variable winning ball device 6B, the special variable winning ball device 7, etc.) in the game area of the pachinko gaming machine 1.

  At the lower right position of the gaming machine frame 3, there is provided a hitting operation handle (operation knob) operated by a player or the like to launch a game ball as a game medium toward the game area. For example, the hitting operation handle adjusts the resilience of the game ball according to the operation amount (rotation amount) by the player or the like. The hitting operation handle only needs to be provided with a single shot switch or a touch ring (touch sensor) for stopping the driving of a shooting motor included in the hitting ball shooting device. At a predetermined position of the gaming machine frame 3 below the gaming area, a game ball paid out as a prize ball or a game ball lent out by a predetermined ball lending machine is held (stored) so as to be supplied to a ball hitting device. )) Is provided. Below the gaming machine frame 3, there is provided a lower plate that holds (stores) surplus balls overflowing from the upper plate so as to be discharged to the outside of the pachinko gaming machine 1.

Next, the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1 will be schematically described.
In the pachinko gaming machine 1, the normal symbol display 20 performs variable display of the normal symbol such that the game ball that has passed through the passing gate 41 provided in the gaming area is detected by the gate switch 21 shown in FIG. For example, the normal symbol display 20 is set based on the fact that the normal symbol start condition for starting variable display of the normal symbol, such as the end of the previous general symbol game, is satisfied after the general symbol start condition for the normal symbol start is satisfied. The usual game is started. In this normal game, after the normal symbol change is started, when a predetermined time as the normal symbol change time elapses, the fixed normal symbol that is a variable display result of the normal symbol is stopped and displayed (derived display). At this time, if a specific normal symbol (a symbol per ordinary symbol), such as a number indicating “7”, is stopped and displayed as the fixed ordinary symbol, the variable symbol display result of the ordinary symbol becomes “per ordinary symbol”. On the other hand, if a normal symbol other than the symbol per symbol such as a number or symbol other than the number indicating “7” is stopped and displayed as the fixed ordinary symbol, the variable symbol display result of the normal symbol is “ordinary loss”. Become. Corresponding to the fact that the normal symbol variable display result is “per standard”, the expansion / release control (tilt control) is performed in which the movable tulip of the electric tulip constituting the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B is tilted. The normal opening control is performed to return to the vertical position when a predetermined time has elapsed.

  After the first start condition is satisfied, for example, when the game ball that has passed (entered) the first start winning opening formed in the normal winning ball apparatus 6A is detected by the first start opening switch 22A shown in FIG. Based on the fact that the first start condition is satisfied, for example, because the previous special figure game or the big hit gaming state has ended, the special figure game by the first special symbol display device 4A is started. Further, the second starting condition is satisfied, for example, when a game ball that has passed (entered) the second starting winning opening formed in the normally variable winning ball apparatus 6B is detected by the second starting opening switch 22B shown in FIG. Later, a special game by the second special symbol display device 4B is started based on the fact that the second start condition is satisfied, for example, due to the end of the previous special game or the big hit gaming state.

  In the special symbol game by the first special symbol display device 4A or the second special symbol display device 4B, after the variable symbol display time as the special symbol variable time has elapsed after the variable symbol special display is started, the variable symbol variable symbol is displayed. The resulting definite special symbol (special diagram display result) is derived and displayed. At this time, if a specific special symbol (big hit symbol) is stopped and displayed as a confirmed special symbol, it becomes a “big hit” as a specific display result, and if a special symbol different from the big hit symbol is stopped and displayed, it is “lost”. . After the variable display result in the special figure game becomes “big hit”, the game is controlled to the big hit gaming state as a specific gaming state in which a round advantageous to the player (also referred to as “round game”) is executed a predetermined number of times.

  In the pachinko gaming machine 1 in this embodiment, as an example, a special symbol indicating the numbers “3”, “5”, and “7” is a jackpot symbol, and a special symbol indicating the symbol “−” is a lose symbol. . It should be noted that each symbol such as a jackpot symbol or a lost symbol in the special symbol game by the first special symbol display device 4A may be different from each symbol in the special symbol game by the second special symbol display device 4B. However, a special symbol common to both special symbol games may be a jackpot symbol or a lost symbol.

  After the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed as a confirmed special symbol in the special symbol game and becomes the “big hit” as the specific display result, in the big hit gaming state, the big winning door of the special variable winning ball device 7 is set for a predetermined period (for example, In the period until 29 seconds or 0.5 seconds) or a predetermined number (for example, 9) of winning balls are generated, the big winning opening is opened. Thereby, the round which makes the special variable winning ball apparatus 7 the 1st state (open state) advantageous for a player is performed. A special prize-winning ball device that receives a game ball falling on the surface of the game board 2 and then closes the big prize-winning slot, with the grand prize-winning door that has opened the grand prize-winning port during the round. 7 is changed to the second state (closed state) disadvantageous to the player, and one round is completed. The round that is the opening cycle of the big prize opening can be repeatedly executed until the number of executions reaches a predetermined upper limit number (for example, “15”, “2”, etc.). Even before the number of rounds has reached the upper limit, the execution of the round may be terminated when a predetermined condition is satisfied (for example, a game ball has not won a big prize opening). .

  A game in the 15R big hit state in which the number of round executions is “15” is also referred to as a 15-time open game. In this embodiment, the special symbols indicating the numbers “3”, “5”, and “7” that are jackpot symbols are all 15R jackpot symbols that are derived and displayed as the confirmed special symbols in the special game. Controlled to 15R big hit state.

  After the 15R jackpot state is ended based on the special symbol indicating the number “3” among the jackpot symbols being stopped and displayed as the confirmed special symbol in the special symbol game, the game is returned to the normal state as one of the special game states. In comparison, the time-shortening control (time-shortening control) in which the variable symbol variable display time (special-figure fluctuation time) in the special-figure game is shortened is controlled to be in a short time state. Here, the normal state is a normal gaming state as a gaming state different from a specific gaming state such as a big hit gaming state, a probability variation state, and a short-time state, and an initial setting state of the pachinko gaming machine 1 (for example, a system reset is performed). As in the case where the initialization process is performed after the power is turned on, the same control is performed. If the time-short state is terminated when any of the conditions of the special game is executed a predetermined number of times (for example, 100 times) and the variable display result is “big hit” is satisfied first, Good. Like the special symbol indicating the number “3”, the big hit symbol that is controlled to the short-time state after the big hit gaming state based on the fact that it is stopped and displayed as the confirmed special symbol in the special figure game is the non-probable big hit symbol. (Also referred to as “normal jackpot symbol”). Further, the fact that the non-probable variable big hit symbol among the big hit symbols is stopped and displayed and the variable display result becomes “big hit” is called “non-probable big hit” (also referred to as “normal big hit”).

  A special game state different from the short-time state after the 15R jackpot state is ended based on the special symbol indicating the number “5” or “7” being stopped and displayed as a special symbol in the special symbol game. As one of the above, for example, the control is performed to the probability variation state (high probability state) in which the probability variation control (probability variation control) is continuously performed together with the time shortening control in which the special figure variation time is shortened compared to the normal state. In this probabilistic state, the variable display result of each special figure game and decorative design is improved so that the probability that the variable display result will be “big hit” and further controlled to the big hit gaming state will be higher than in the normal state and the short-time state. To do. Such a probability change state may be continued until the next variable display result becomes “big hit”, regardless of the number of executions of the special figure game. The time reduction control in the probability changing state may be terminated when a predetermined number of times (for example, 100 times) the special game is executed, as in the case of the time reduction state. Alternatively, the time reduction control in the probability variation state may be continued until the next variable display result becomes “big hit”, regardless of the number of executions of the special game.

  As an example, after the big hit gaming state based on the special symbol indicating the number “5” or “7” being stopped and displayed as the confirmed special symbol in the special diagram game, the probability variation state is entered and the probability variation control and time reduction are performed. When the control is started and the number of executions of the special figure game reaches a predetermined number without the variable display result being “big hit”, the time-shortening control is ended. On the other hand, the probability variation control is continued until the next variable display result becomes “big hit”.

  As another example, after the big hit gaming state based on the special symbol indicating the number “5” being stopped and displayed as the confirmed special symbol in the special game, the probabilistic control state and the short-time control are performed. Both are started, and when the number of executions of the special figure game reaches a predetermined number without the variable display result being “big hit”, the time reduction control is ended. On the other hand, the probability variation control is continued until the next variable display result becomes “big hit”. In addition, after the big hit gaming state based on the special symbol indicating the number “7” being stopped and displayed as the confirmed special symbol in the special diagram game, the probability variation state is entered and both the probability variation control and the time reduction control are started. Regardless of the number of executions of the special figure game, both the probability variation control and the time reduction control are continued until the next variable display result is “big hit”.

  The probability variation state in which the time-shortening control is performed together with the probability variation control is also referred to as a highly accurate and high base state. Further, the probability variation state in which only the probability variation control is performed and the time reduction control is not performed is also referred to as a high probability low base state. Further, the time-short state in which only the time-short control is performed without performing the probability variation control is also referred to as a low-accuracy high-base state. The normal state in which neither the probability variation control nor the time reduction control is performed is also referred to as a low probability low base state. As described above, the probability variation state includes a highly accurate and low base state in which only the probability variation control is performed and the time reduction control is not performed, in addition to the high accuracy and high base state in which the time variation control is performed together with the probability variation control. May be.

  The special symbol indicating the number “5” is referred to as a first probability variation big hit symbol. Further, the fact that the first probability variable big hit symbol of the big hit symbol is stopped and displayed and the variable display result becomes “big hit” is referred to as “first positive variable big hit”. The special symbol indicating the number “7” is referred to as a second probability variation big hit symbol. Further, the fact that the second probability variable big hit symbol of the big hit symbol is stopped and displayed and the variable display result becomes “big hit” is called “second positive variable big hit”. Note that the non-probable variation jackpot symbol “3”, the first probability variation jackpot symbol “5”, and the second probability variation jackpot symbol “7” are examples, and each jackpot symbol is not limited thereto. For example, in order to prevent the player from recognizing the jackpot symbol or the type of jackpot, the jackpot symbol may not be a number but may be a predetermined symbol (for example, “co”).

  In the pachinko gaming machine 1, based on the variable display result being “big hit”, the round is executed under the control of the big hit gaming state, and the player wins the game ball in the opened big winning opening. A game value advantageous to the player that a large number of prize balls can be easily obtained is given. In addition, a game value advantageous to the player is provided in the probable change state and the short time state, in which it becomes easier to enter the big hit game state than in the normal state. In addition, the maximum number of rounds that can be executed in the big hit gaming state becomes the first round number (for example, “15”) larger than the second round number (for example, “2”), or is executed in a short time state. The upper limit number of possible special figure games becomes a first number (for example, “100”) larger than the second number (for example, “50”), and the big hit probability in the probability variation state is from the second probability (for example, 1/50). The first probability (for example, 1/20) is high, and the number of consecutive chunks, which is the number of times controlled in the big hit gaming state without being controlled in the normal state, is larger than the second consecutive number of chunks (for example, “5”). Various game values, such as a large number of first consecutive channels (for example, “10”) may be given. Whether or not such a predetermined game value is given may be determined according to a display result of a predetermined symbol such as a confirmed jackpot symbol that becomes a variable display result in a special game.

  In the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R provided in the image display device 5, a special symbol game using the first special symbol in the first special symbol display device 4A and In response to the start of any one of the special symbol games using the second special symbol in the second special symbol display device 4B, the decorative symbol variable display is started. The period from the start of variable display of decorative symbols to the end of variable display due to the stop display of the fixed decorative symbols in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R Then, the variable display state of the decorative pattern may be a predetermined reach state. Here, the reach state means a decorative symbol (“reach variation symbol” which has not been stopped yet when the decorative symbol stopped and displayed in the display area of the image display device 5 forms part of the jackpot combination. Is also a display state in which the variation continues, or a display state in which all or part of the decorative symbols change synchronously while constituting all or part of the jackpot combination. Specifically, in some of the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R (for example, “left” and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L and 5R) in advance. The remaining decorative symbol display area (for example, “medium”) that has not yet been stopped when the decorative symbol (for example, the decorative symbol indicating the alphanumeric character “7”) that constitutes the determined jackpot combination is stopped. In the symbol display area 5C, etc., the decorative pattern is changing, or in all or part of the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R. This is a display state that changes in synchronization while constituting all or part of the combination.

  Further, in response to the reach state, the variation speed of the decorative design is reduced, or a character image (an effect image simulating a person) different from the decorative design is displayed in the display area of the image display device 5. Or changing the display mode of the background image, playing and displaying a moving image that is different from the decorative design, or changing the variation mode of the decorative design, performing a different rendering operation than before reaching the reach state May be. Such effect operations such as display of the character image, change of the display mode of the background image, reproduction display of the moving image, and change of the decorative pattern change mode are referred to as reach effect display (or simply reach effect). In the reach effect, not only the display operation in the image display device 5 but also the sound output operation by the speakers 8L and 8R, the lighting operation (flashing operation) in the light emitter such as the game effect lamp 9, and the like are in the reach state. An operation mode different from the previous operation mode may be included. As an effect operation in the reach effect, a plurality of types of effect patterns (also referred to as “reach patterns”) having different operation modes (reach modes) may be prepared in advance. Each reach mode has a different possibility of “big hit” (also referred to as “reliability” or “big hit reliability”). That is, it is possible to vary the possibility that the variable display result will be a “hit” depending on which of the multiple types of reach effects is executed. As an example, in this embodiment, reach modes such as normal reach, super reach α, and super reach β are preset. And, when the reach form of super reach such as super reach α and super reach β appears, the possibility that the variable display result will be “big hit” compared to the case where the reach form of normal reach appears (big hit reliability) Becomes higher.

  During the variable display of decorative designs, unlike reach production, the variable display status of decorative designs may become reach status, and the variable display result may be a `` big hit '', etc. There may be a case where a variable display effect for informing the player is given in accordance with a variable display mode of decorative symbols. In this embodiment, variable display effects such as “sliding” and “pseudo-continuous” can be executed. It is determined whether or not the “pseudo-continuous” variable display effect is executed in response to the change pattern being determined on the main board 11 side. Whether or not the variable display effect of “slip” is executed on the side of the effect control board 12 may be determined regardless of the variation pattern determined on the side of the main board 11.

  In the variable display effect of “slip”, the decorative symbols are changed in all of the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R, and then a plurality of decorative symbol display areas (for example, After the decorative symbols are temporarily stopped and displayed in the “left” and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5R, etc., a predetermined number (for example, “1” or “2” of the temporarily stopped display of decorative symbols is displayed. )) In the decorative symbol display area (for example, one or both of the “left” decorative symbol display area 5L and the “right” decorative symbol display area 5R), and then the display is stopped and displayed again. An effect display for changing the decorative design to be stopped is performed. Thus, in the variable display effect of “slip”, a predetermined number of decorative symbols are displayed after temporary display of a plurality of decorative symbols from the start of variable display of decorative symbols to the display of a definite decorative symbol resulting in variable display. When the variable display state of the decorative pattern is re-executed, the variable display state of the decorative pattern becomes the reach state, and when the decorative symbol constituting the non-reach combination is stopped and displayed without reaching the reach state. is there.

  In the “pseudo-ream” variable display effect, the variable display of the decorative symbol is started in response to one of the first start condition and the second start condition of the special figure game being satisfied once. Before the final determined decorative symbol is derived and displayed, the decorative symbols are temporarily stopped and displayed in all of the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R. The effect display in which the decorative symbols are changed again (pseudo-variable) in all the decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R can be performed a predetermined number of times (for example, up to three times). The number of quasi-continuous fluctuations is displayed for the left, middle, and right decorative symbols, excluding the initial variation from the start of variable symbol display until the first temporary stop for all decorative symbols. This is the number of times that the decorative symbols re-variate in all of the areas 5L, 5C, and 5R.

  As an example, in the variable display effect of “pseudo-continuous”, a plurality of predetermined pseudo-ream chances of special combinations are displayed in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R. A decorative symbol that is one of the various types of lost combinations is displayed temporarily. In the temporary stop display, while the decorative symbol is stopped and displayed, the decorative symbol is displayed to the player by, for example, performing a fluctuation display or changing the decorative symbol again immediately after stopping for a short time. What is necessary is just to alert | report that the decoration design which is not decided. Alternatively, even in the temporary stop display, the decorative symbol may be re-fluctuated after the decorative symbol is stopped to such an extent that the player recognizes that the decorative symbol once displayed is confirmed.

  In this embodiment, in the variable display effect of “pseudo-continuous”, the first start condition or the second start condition is satisfied once by performing the pseudo-continuous change (re-change) once to three times. Based on this, it is possible to make it appear as if the variable display of the decorative symbols has been started 2 to 4 times in succession. Note that the number of pseudo-continuous fluctuations (re-variations) in the “pseudo-continuous” variable display effect may be executed more than one to three times, for example, four or five times.

  In addition, in this embodiment, unlike the reach effect or the variable display effect such as “slip” or “pseudo-run”, the start condition for the variable display of the special symbol in which the start condition is satisfied but the start condition is not satisfied. When the above is established, so-called “look-ahead” is performed to determine whether or not the display result (special figure display result) of this variable display (so-called target) becomes “big hit”. Based on the result of prefetching, after deriving the display result of the variable display (target) of the prefetch target, a prefetch effect indicating the possibility that the display result of the variable display of the target will be a big hit is used as the prefetch determination result. To be executed based on.

  During the variable display of decorative designs, for example, a predetermined effect image is displayed, a message image is displayed, a voice is output, and a game is different from a reach effect or a variable display effect such as “slide” or “pseudo-ream”. The player is informed of the possibility that the variable display result will be a “hit” due to a presentation operation different from the decorative display variable display operation, such as the lighting operation of the effect lamp 9 or the predetermined operation of the production model. For this purpose, a notice effect may be executed. The effect operation that becomes the notice effect is the variable display state of the decorative symbol after the decorative symbol variable display is started in all of the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R. Reach establishment pre-announcement effect that is executed (started) before the reach state is reached (before the decorative symbols are temporarily stopped and displayed in the “left” and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L and 5R); Includes a post-reach announcement effect that is executed after reaching reach. In this way, the notice effect can be a big hit gaming state at a predetermined timing from the start of variable display of special symbols and decorative symbols until the fixed special symbols and fixed decorative symbols that result in variable display are derived. Anything that can give notice of sex is acceptable. In addition to notifying that there is a possibility that it will be a big hit as a pre-reach pre-announcement effect, it is also possible to execute a pre-announcement that a decorative symbol will be in a reach state, a predetermined reach effect will be executed, etc. Good.

  If a special symbol that will be a lost symbol is stopped and displayed as a special symbol to be confirmed in the special symbol game, the decorative symbol variable display state will not reach the reach state after the variable symbol variable display starts. There are cases in which a fixed decorative symbol that is a non-reach combination is stopped and displayed. Such a decorative display variable display mode is referred to as “non-reach” (also referred to as “unreach loss”) variable display mode when the variable display result is “losing”.

  When a special symbol that becomes a losing symbol is stopped and displayed as a confirmed special symbol in a special symbol game, it corresponds to the fact that the decorative symbol variable display state has reached the reach state after the decorative symbol variable display has started. Then, after the reach effect is executed, a fixed decorative pattern that becomes a predetermined reach combination (also referred to as reach lose combination) may be stopped and displayed. Such a variable display result of the decorative design is referred to as a variable display mode of “reach” (also referred to as “reach lose”) when the variable display result is “losing”. It should be noted that the fixed decorative pattern that is a non-reach combination and the fixed decorative pattern that is a reach combination are collectively referred to as a fixed decorative pattern of a lost combination (non-specific combination).

  When the special symbol showing the number “3”, which is a non-probable big bonus symbol, is stopped and displayed as a special symbol for finalization in the special symbol game, the variable display state of the decorative symbol has reached the reach state. In response to this, after a predetermined reach effect is executed, a definite decorative symbol that is a predetermined non-probable variation big hit combination (also referred to as “normal big hit combination”) is stopped and displayed. For example, the symbol number that is variably displayed in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R in the image display device 5 is “1”. Among the decorative symbols of “8”, any one of the decorative symbols having the even numbers “2”, “4”, “6”, “8” is “left”, “middle”, “right”. The decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R may be stopped and displayed on a predetermined effective line, and may be a type of a fixed decorative symbol that is a jackpot combination. In this way, the decorative symbols having the even number “2”, “4”, “6”, and “8” constituting the non-probable variation big hit combination are referred to as non-probable variation symbols (also referred to as “normal symbols”). .

  Corresponding to the fact that the confirmed special symbol in the special figure game becomes a non-probable variable big hit symbol, after the predetermined reach effect is executed, the fixed decorative symbol of the non-probable big hit combination is stopped and displayed. The mode is referred to as a variable display mode of “non-probable variation big hit” when the variable display result is “big hit”, and the big hit type is also referred to as “non-probable change”. Thus, after the variable display result becomes “big hit” by the variable display mode of “non-probable big hit”, the game is controlled to the big hit gaming state, and when the big hit gaming state is finished, it is controlled to the short time state.

  When a special symbol indicating the number “7”, which is a probabilistic big hit symbol, is stopped and displayed as a special symbol to be confirmed in the special symbol game, the variable display state of the decorative symbol has reached the reach state. Correspondingly, after a predetermined reach effect is executed, a fixed decorative symbol that is a predetermined probability variation jackpot combination is stopped and displayed. Such a variable display mode of the decorative pattern is referred to as a variable display mode of “probability big hit”, and the big hit type is also “probable change”.

  In the probability change state or the time reduction state, for example, an effect image for notifying the probability change state or the time reduction state such as “probability change” or “time reduction” is displayed in the display area of the image display device 5, or By changing the display mode of the background image and the decorative pattern in the display area from the display mode in the normal effect mode, the player can recognize that the player is in the probable state or the short-time state. Also good. Alternatively, in the probability variation state, for example, the player may be unable to recognize or difficult to recognize that the probability variation state is caused by the same effect mode as in the normal state (so-called latent probability variation).

  In addition, a card unit that enables ball lending by inserting a game card as a game recording medium such as a prepaid card having a prepaid function is installed adjacent to the pachinko gaming machine 1 (not shown). .

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

  The main board 11 is a main-side control board, and various circuits for controlling the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1 are mounted. The main board 11 is mainly addressed to a sub-side control board composed of a random number setting function used in a special game, a function of inputting a signal from a switch or the like disposed at a predetermined position, and an effect control board 12. A function of outputting and transmitting a control command as an example of command information as a control signal, a function of outputting various information to a hall management computer, and the like are provided. In addition, the main board 11 performs on / off control of each LED (for example, segment LED) constituting the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B, and thereby the first special diagram and the second special diagram. Variable display of a predetermined display pattern such as controlling the variable display of the normal symbol display 20 or controlling the variable symbol display of the normal symbol display 20 by controlling the lighting / extinction / coloring control of the normal symbol display 20. It also has a function to control. The main board 11 includes, for example, a game control microcomputer 100, a switch circuit 110 that receives detection signals from various switches for game ball detection and transmits the detection signals to the game control microcomputer 100, and the game control microcomputer 100. A solenoid circuit 111 for transmitting a solenoid drive signal to the solenoids 81 and 82 is mounted.

  The effect control board 12 is a sub-side control board independent of the main board 11, receives the control signal transmitted from the main board 11 via the relay board 15, and receives the image display device 5, the speakers 8L, 8R. Various circuits for controlling the rendering operation by the rendering device, which is an electrical component for rendering, such as the game effect lamp 9 and the movable members for rendering 32A to 32C, are mounted. That is, the effect control board 12 is for all or part of the display operation in the image display device 5, all or part of the sound output operation from the speakers 8L and 8R, all or part of the lighting / extinguishing operation in the game effect lamp 9, etc. A function of determining a control content for causing the effect device as an effect electrical component to execute a predetermined effect operation, such as a drive operation of the movable members 32A to 32C, is provided.

  The sound control board 13 is a control board for sound output control provided separately from the effect control board 12, and outputs sound from the speakers 8L and 8R based on commands and control data from the effect control board 12. For example, a processing circuit for executing audio signal processing is mounted. The lamp control board 14 is a control board for lamp output control provided separately from the effect control board 12, and based on commands and control data from the effect control board 12, the game effect lamp 9 and the effect lighting lamp A lamp driver circuit that performs lighting / extinguishing driving of the object 90 is mounted.

  As shown in FIG. 2, wiring for transmitting detection signals from the gate switch 21, the first start port switch 22 </ b> A, the second start port switch 22 </ b> B, and the count switch 23 is connected to the main board 11. The gate switch 21, the first start port switch 22A, the second start port switch 22B, and the count switch 23 have an arbitrary configuration that can detect a game ball as a game medium, such as a sensor. What is necessary is just to have. In addition, the main board 11 includes a first special symbol display device 4A, a second special symbol display device 4B, a normal symbol display device 20, a first hold display device 25A, a second hold display device 25B, and a general drawing hold display device 25C. Wiring for transmitting a command signal for performing display control such as is connected.

  A control signal transmitted from the main board 11 toward the effect control board 12 is relayed by the relay board 15. The main board 11 is provided with a main board side connector corresponding to, for example, the relay board 15, and an output buffer circuit is connected between the main board side connector and the game control microcomputer 100. The output buffer circuit can pass a signal only in the direction from the main board 11 to the effect control board 12 via the relay board 15, and prevents the signal input from the relay board 15 to the main board 11. Therefore, there is no room for signals to be transmitted from the production control board 12 or the relay board 15 side to the main board 11 side.

  The relay board 15 only needs to be provided with a transmission direction regulation circuit for each wiring for transmitting a control signal from the main board 11 to the effect control board 12, for example. Each transmission direction regulation circuit includes a diode having an anode connected to the main board connector corresponding to the main board 11 and a cathode connected to the presentation control board connector corresponding to the presentation control board 12, and one end connected to the cathode of the diode. And a resistor having the other end connected to the ground (GND). With this configuration, each transmission direction regulating circuit can prevent the signal from being input from the effect control board 12 to the relay board 15 and pass the signal only in the direction from the main board 11 to the effect control board 12. Therefore, there is no room for signals to be transmitted from the production control board 12 side to the main board 11 side. In this embodiment, a transmission direction regulating circuit is provided for each wiring for transmitting a control signal in the relay board 15, and an output buffer circuit is provided between the game control microcomputer 100 and the main board side connector on the main board 11. By providing this, it is possible to prevent an illegal signal from being input to the main board 11 from the outside.

  The control command transmitted from the main board 11 to the effect control board 12 via the relay board 15 is, for example, an effect control command transmitted and received as an electric signal. The effect control command includes, for example, a display control command used for controlling an image display operation in the image display device 5, a voice control command used for controlling sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R, and a game effect lamp 9. And a lamp control command used for controlling the lighting operation of the decoration LED and the like.

  As a control command transmitted from the main board 11 to the effect control board 12 via the relay board 15, the first special figure in the first special symbol display device 4A is used from the main board 11 to the effect control board 12. A first change start command for designating a change start in a special figure game, a second change start command for designating a change start in a special figure game using the second special figure in the second special symbol display device 4B, and a special in special figure game Corresponding to the variable display of the symbols, the variation specifying the variation pattern such as the decorative symbols variably displayed in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R in the image display device 5 A pattern designation command, a variable display result notification command for designating a variable display result such as a special symbol or a decorative symbol, and the like are transmitted. As a variable display result notification command, a determination result (predetermined result) whether the variable display result is “losing” or “big hit”, and a big hit type (decorative design of the decorative symbol when the variable display result is “big hit”) Information indicating a determination result (a jackpot type determination result) as to which of a plurality of types of variable display mode) is included.

  Control commands transmitted from the main board 11 to the effect control board 12 via the relay board 15 further include “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L in the image display device 5, 5C and 5R, a symbol confirmation designation command for designating the stop of variable display of decorative symbols, a game status designation command for designating the current gaming state in the pachinko gaming machine 1, and a random number value for determining a variation pattern type as a winning judgment result A variation category command or the like indicating a determination result (variation pattern type determination result) indicating which range of MR3 is included is included. In the gaming state designation command, for example, information indicating whether the current gaming state in the pachinko gaming machine 1 is a normal state, a probability change state, or a time-short state is included.

  The control command transmitted from the main board 11 to the effect control board 12 via the relay board 15 further includes a jackpot start specifying command (“fanfare command”) for specifying display of an effect image indicating the start of the jackpot gaming state. The game ball that has passed through (entered) the first start winning opening formed by the normal winning ball device 6A and the first starting ball game command that includes information indicating the number of rounds executed in the 15R big hit state, etc. Based on the fact that the start winning is detected by the mouth switch 22A, the fact that the first start condition for executing the special figure game using the first special figure in the first special symbol display device 4A is established is notified. A game ball that has passed (entered) a second start winning opening formed by the first start opening winning designation command and the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B is the second start opening switch 22B. The second start for notifying that the second start condition for executing the special figure game using the second special figure in the second special symbol display device 4B is established based on the fact that the start winning is detected. The total which is the sum of the first special figure reserved memory number and the second special figure reserved memory number so that the special figure reserved memory number can be specified in the mouth winning designation command, the start winning memory display area 5H, etc. A pending storage number notification command and the like for notifying the pending storage number are included. For example, when the first start condition or the second start condition is satisfied, either the first start opening prize designation command or the second start opening prize designation command is transmitted as the reserved storage number notification command. Subsequently, the data is transmitted from the main board 11 to the effect control board 12. Further, the pending storage number notification command may be transmitted in response to the start of the execution of the special figure game when either the first start condition or the second start condition is satisfied. .

  The game control microcomputer 100 mounted on the main board 11 is, for example, a one-chip microcomputer, and includes a ROM (Read Only Memory) 101 for storing a game control program, fixed data, and the like, and a game control work. A RAM (Random Access Memory) 102 that provides an area, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 103 that executes a control program by executing a game control program, and updates numeric data indicating random values independently of the CPU 103 A random number circuit 104 to perform and an I / O (Input / Output port) 105 are provided. As an example, in the game control microcomputer 100, a process for controlling the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1 is executed by the CPU 103 executing a program read from the ROM 101. At this time, the CPU 103 reads fixed data from the ROM 101, the CPU 103 writes various fluctuation data to the RAM 102 and temporarily stores the fluctuation data, and the CPU 103 temporarily stores the various fluctuation data. The CPU 103 receives the input of various signals from outside the game control microcomputer 100 via the I / O 105, and the CPU 103 goes outside the game control microcomputer 100 via the I / O 105. A transmission operation for outputting various signals is also performed. The one-chip microcomputer constituting the game control microcomputer 100 may include at least the RAM 103 in addition to the CPU 103, and the ROM 101 may be external or internal. Further, the random number circuit 104 and the I / O 105 may be externally attached.

  On the main board 11, for example, a random number circuit 104 built in or externally attached to the game control microcomputer 100 shown in FIG. 2 can update numerical data indicating various random values used for controlling the progress of the game. Will be counted. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a random number value counted on the main board 11 side. As shown in FIG. 3, in this embodiment, on the main board 11 side, a random number value MR1 for determining the special figure display result, a random value MR2 for determining the big hit type, a random value MR3 for determining the variation pattern type, Numerical data indicating the random number value MR4 for determining the variation pattern and the random value MR5 for determining the normal display result are controlled to be countable. In addition, in order to improve a game effect, random numbers other than these may be used.

  Such random numbers used to control the progress of the game are also referred to as game random numbers. The random number circuit 104 only needs to count numerical data indicating some or all of these random number values MR1 to MR5. The CPU 103 uses a random counter different from the random number circuit 104, such as a random counter provided in a game control counter setting unit provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 122, to update various numerical data by software, thereby generating a random value. Numerical data indicating a part of MR1 to MR5 may be counted. As an example, the numerical data indicating the random number value MR1 for determining the special figure display result is updated independently of the CPU 103 by the random number circuit 104, and the numerical data indicating the other random number values MR2 to MR5 is updated by the CPU 103 using the random counter. It may be updated by software using Also, by executing predetermined processing such as scramble processing and arithmetic processing using all or part of the numerical data updated by the random number circuit 104, numerical data indicating all or part of the random number values MR1 to MR5 is obtained. It may be updated.

  The game control microcomputer 100 may have a function of setting an initial value of numerical data updated by the random number circuit 104. For example, a predetermined calculation is performed using the ID number of the game control microcomputer 100 stored in a predetermined storage area such as the ROM 101 (an ID number assigned with a different value for each product of the game control microcomputer 100). The numerical data obtained by the setting is set as the initial value of the numerical data updated by the random number circuit 104. By performing such processing, the randomness of the random number generated by the random number circuit 104 can be further improved.

  The random number value MR1 for determining the special figure display result is a random number value used for determining whether or not to control the jackpot gaming state with the variable display result of a special symbol or the like in the special figure game as “big hit”. It takes a value in the range of “1” to “65535”. The random number MR2 for determining the big hit type is any one of “non-probable change”, “first positive change”, and “second positive change” as the big hit type which is the variable display mode of the decorative symbol when the variable display result is “big hit”. This is a random value used to determine the value, for example, a value in the range of “1” to “100”.

  The random value MR3 for determining the variation pattern type is a random value used to determine the variation pattern type in the variable display of the special symbol or the decorative symbol as one of a plurality of types prepared in advance. For example, “1” A value in the range of “251” is taken. The random number MR4 for determining the variation pattern is a random value used to determine the variation pattern in the variable display of the special symbol or the decorative symbol as one of a plurality of types prepared in advance. For example, “1” to “ It takes a value in the range of “997”. The random value MR5 for determining the general-purpose display result is used for determining whether the variable display result in the general-purpose game by the normal symbol display 20 is “per-normal” or “unusual for general-purpose”. It is a random value.

  FIG. 4 shows a variation pattern in this embodiment. In this embodiment, among the cases where the variable display result is “losing”, the variable display mode of the decorative design is “non-reach” and “reach”, respectively. Corresponding to the case where the display result is “big hit”, a plurality of variation patterns are prepared in advance. The variation pattern corresponding to the case where the variable display result is “losing” and the decorative symbol variable display mode is “non-reach” is called a non-reach variation pattern (also referred to as “non-reach loss variation pattern”) and is variable. The variation pattern corresponding to the case where the display result is “losing” and the decorative symbol variable display mode is “reach” is referred to as a reach variation pattern (also referred to as “reach loss variation pattern”). Further, the non-reach variation pattern and the reach variation pattern are included in the loss variation pattern corresponding to the case where the variable display result is “lost”. A variation pattern corresponding to the case where the variable display result is “big hit” is referred to as a big hit variation pattern.

  FIG. 5 shows the variation pattern type in this embodiment. Each variation pattern shown in FIG. 4 is included in at least one variation pattern type among the plurality of variation pattern types shown in FIG. That is, if each variation pattern type is configured to include a single or a plurality of variation patterns classified (grouped) based on, for example, a mode of a rendering operation performed during variable display of decorative symbols, etc. Good. As an example, a variation pattern type that includes a variation pattern in which a variable display state of a decorative design does not become a reach state by classifying (grouping) a plurality of variation patterns according to the type of reach effect (effect mode), and a variation with normal reach What is necessary is just to divide into the fluctuation pattern classification in which the pattern is included, and the fluctuation pattern classification in which the fluctuation pattern with super reach is included. Other variation patterns may be classified into different variation pattern types depending on whether or not a predetermined variable display effect is executed. As another example, a plurality of variation patterns may be classified (grouped) according to the variable display time of decorative symbols. Among the plurality of variation pattern types, there may be one configured to include a common variation pattern. In addition, when a plurality of super reach effects are set, they may be classified into different variation pattern types according to the contents of the super reach effects.

  As shown in FIG. 5, one or a plurality of variation patterns are classified into each variation pattern type according to the variable display mode and the variable display content. The specific classification of the fluctuation pattern shown in FIG. 4 can be specified from the setting of the fluctuation pattern determination table 133 as shown in FIG. 9, for example. That is, in the variation pattern determination table 133, variation patterns to which a determined value is assigned according to each variation pattern type are classified so as to be included in the variation pattern type.

  In addition to the game control program, the ROM 101 included in the game control microcomputer 100 shown in FIG. 2 stores various selection data and table data used for controlling the progress of the game. . For example, the ROM 101 stores data constituting a plurality of determination tables, determination tables, setting tables and the like prepared for the CPU 103 to perform various determinations, determinations, and settings. Further, the ROM 101 stores a plurality of types of table data constituting a plurality of command tables used for the CPU 103 to transmit control signals serving as various control commands from the main board 11, and a variation pattern as shown in FIG. Table data constituting a variation pattern table to be stored is stored.

  FIG. 6 shows a configuration example of the special figure display result determination table 130 stored in the ROM 101. The special figure display result determination table 130 is displayed when the first start condition for allowing the start of the special figure game using the first special figure in the first special symbol display device 4A is satisfied, or in the second special symbol display device 4B. When the second start condition that allows the start of the special figure game using the second special figure is satisfied, before the fixed special symbol that becomes the variable display result (special figure display result) of the special symbol is derived and displayed, It is a table referred to in order to determine whether or not to control the jackpot gaming state with the variable display result as “big hit” based on the random value MR1 for determining the special figure display result.

  In the special figure display result determination table 130, a numerical value (determination value) to be compared with the random value MR1 for determining the special figure display result according to whether the gaming state in the pachinko gaming machine 1 is the normal state or the probability variation state, It is assigned to one of the special figure display results of “big hit” or “losing”. In this embodiment, whether the game is a special game using the first special graphic in the first special symbol display device 4A or a special game using the second special graphic in the second special symbol display device 4B. Regardless, the special figure display result is determined with reference to the table data in the common special figure display result determination table 130. On the other hand, each of the case of the special game using the first special symbol in the first special symbol display device 4A and the case of the special game using the second special symbol in the second special symbol display device 4B. Correspondingly, determination tables with different allocations of determination values for special figure display results may be prepared.

  In the special figure display result determination table 130, the assignment of the decision value to the determination result in which the special figure display result is “big hit” differs depending on whether the gaming state is the normal state, the short-time state, or the probability variation state. . More specifically, when the gaming state is a probable change state, more decision values are assigned to the decision result with the special figure display result as “big hit” than when the game state is the normal state or the short time state. The CPU 103 uses the determination data used to determine the special figure display result from the table data constituting the special figure display result determination table 130 depending on whether the gaming state is the normal state, the short-time state, or the probable change state. The table data to be obtained may be selected as the special figure display result determination table data.

  In the special figure display result determination table 130, table data is set so that each determination value is assigned to each determination result, and the CPU 103 compares the random value MR1 with the determination value one by one to match the random value MR1. It is only necessary to be able to determine the special figure display result to which the determined value is assigned. Alternatively, in the special figure display result determination table 130, table data indicating the minimum value (lower limit value) and the maximum value (upper limit value) of the determination value assigned to each determination result is set, and the CPU 103 sets the random value MR1 and each By comparing the minimum value and the maximum value of the determination values assigned to the determination result, it may be possible to determine the special figure display result corresponding to the determination value range including the random number value MR1. Various determination tables provided in addition to the special figure display result determination table 130 may be set similarly.

  FIG. 7 shows a configuration example of the jackpot type determination table 131 stored in the ROM 101. The jackpot type determination table 131 sets the variable display mode to “hits” based on the random value MR2 for determining the jackpot type when it is determined (predetermined) that the special figure display result is “big hit” and controlled to the big hit gaming state. This table is referred to in order to determine one of a plurality of types of jackpot types such as “non-probability change” and “probability change”.

  In the jackpot type determination table 131, a numerical value (decision value) to be compared with the random value MR2 for determining the jackpot type is assigned to a jackpot type such as “non-probable change” or “probability change”. In this embodiment, whether the game is a special game using the first special graphic in the first special symbol display device 4A or a special game using the second special graphic in the second special symbol display device 4B. Regardless, the jackpot type is determined with reference to the table data in the common jackpot type determination table 131. On the other hand, each of the case of the special game using the first special symbol in the first special symbol display device 4A and the case of the special game using the second special symbol in the second special symbol display device 4B. Correspondingly, determination tables having different allocations of determination values for jackpot types may be prepared.

  In the jackpot type determination table 131, table data indicating the determined values assigned to a plurality of types of jackpot types is data for determination corresponding to the determination result of whether or not to control to the probable change state after the jackpot gaming state is finished. ing. For example, the table data indicating the decision value assigned to the “non-probable” jackpot type corresponds to the decision result that the control is not controlled to the probability change state, while the decision value assigned to the “probability” jackpot type. The table data indicating indicates the determination result that the control is to be performed in the probability variation state. The jackpot type determination table 131 sets the value of the jackpot type buffer provided in the game control buffer 155 (the jackpot type buffer value) to a value (for example, “0” or “1”) corresponding to the determined jackpot type. Table data (setting data) may be included. Further, in the jackpot type determination table 131, table data indicating the determination values assigned to a plurality of types of jackpot types is, for example, the upper limit number of rounds that can be executed in the jackpot gaming state or the special game that can be executed in the short-time state. Data for determination corresponding to a determination result of whether or not to give a predetermined game value based on the fact that the variable display result becomes “big hit” such as the upper limit number of times may be included.

  Either or both of the execution mode of the round in the big hit gaming state (the number of executions, the opening time of the big prize opening, etc.) and whether or not to control the probability variation state, the random value MR1 for determining the special figure display result It may be determined based on the numerical data shown. For example, in the special figure display result determination table 130, when a special figure display result of “big hit” is obtained, a decision value is assigned to the decision result of “non-probable variable big hit” or “probable big hit”. It may be done. Alternatively, in the special figure display result determination table 130, when the special figure display result of “big hit” is obtained, the decision values are assigned to a plurality of types of big hit types, and the big hit type is determined using only the random value MR1. It may be determined.

  FIG. 8 shows a configuration example of a variation pattern type determination table stored in the ROM 101. In this embodiment, as the variation pattern type determination table, a jackpot variation pattern type determination table 132A shown in FIG. 8A and a loss variation pattern type determination table shown in FIG. 8B are prepared in advance. . In this embodiment, the variation pattern type is determined with reference to the common jackpot variation pattern type determination table 132A or the loss variation pattern type determination table 132B regardless of whether the gaming state is the normal state or the short time state. On the other hand, determination tables having different assignments of determination values to the variation pattern types may be prepared corresponding to the normal state and the short time state (high base state).

  The jackpot variation pattern type determination table 132A, when it is determined (predetermined) that the special figure display result is “big hit”, the variation pattern type is changed according to the determination result of the jackpot type. This is a table that is referred to in order to determine one of a plurality of types based on the numerical value MR3. In the big hit variation pattern type determination table 132A, a numerical value (determination value) to be compared with the random value MR3 for determining the variation pattern type is assigned to the variation pattern type CA3-1 or the variation pattern type CA3-2. In this embodiment, the ratio determined for each variation pattern type is the same regardless of whether the jackpot type is “non-probable change” or “probability change”. On the other hand, the jackpot type is changed to “non-probable change” or “probable change” in order to vary the ratio determined for the same variation pattern type according to the determination result of which one of the types of jackpot type is selected. Correspondingly, a different decision value may be assigned to each variation pattern type.

  The loss variation pattern type determination table 132B, when it is determined (predetermined) that the special figure display result is “lost”, the variation pattern type is determined based on the random number MR3 for determining the variation pattern type. It is a table that is referenced to determine one of them.

  FIG. 9 shows a configuration example of the variation pattern determination table 133 stored in the ROM 101. The variation pattern determination table 133 is a table that is referred to in order to determine a variation pattern as one of a plurality of types based on the variation pattern determination random value MR4 in accordance with the variation pattern type determination result. In the variation pattern determination table 133, a numerical value (determination value) to be compared with the random number MR4 for variation pattern determination is assigned to a single variation pattern or a plurality of variation patterns according to the variation pattern type.

  The RAM 102 provided in the game control microcomputer 100 shown in FIG. 2 may be a backup RAM that is partially or entirely backed up by a backup power source created on a predetermined power supply board. That is, even if the power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 1 is stopped, a part or all of the contents of the RAM 102 is stored for a predetermined period (until the capacitor as the backup power supply is discharged and the backup power supply cannot be supplied). The In particular, at least data corresponding to the game state, that is, the control state of the game control means (such as a special figure process flag) and data indicating the number of unpaid prize balls may be stored in the backup RAM. The data corresponding to the control state of the game control means is data necessary for restoring the control state before the occurrence of a power failure or the like based on the data when the power is restored after a power failure or the like occurs. Further, data corresponding to the control state and data indicating the number of unpaid winning balls are defined as data indicating the progress state of the game.

  In such a RAM 102, an area for holding various data used for controlling the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1 is set.

  The I / O 105 included in the game control microcomputer 100 shown in FIG. 2 has an input port for receiving various signals transmitted to the game control microcomputer 100, and various signals to the outside of the game control microcomputer 100. And an output port for transmission.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the effect control board 12 is provided with an effect control CPU 120 that performs a control operation according to a program, a ROM 121 that stores an effect control program, fixed data, and the like, and a work area for the effect control CPU 120. Random number for updating numerical data indicating random numbers independently of the RAM 122, the display control unit 123 for executing processing for determining the control content of the display operation in the image display device 5, and the effect control CPU 120 A circuit 124 and an I / O 125 are mounted. As an example, in the effect control board 12, when the effect control CPU 120 executes an effect control program read from the ROM 121, a process for controlling the effect operation by the effect electric component is executed. At this time, the effect control CPU 120 reads the fixed data from the ROM 121, the effect control CPU 120 writes the various data to the RAM 122 and temporarily stores the data, and the effect control CPU 120 stores the effect data in the RAM 122. Fluctuation data reading operation for reading out various fluctuation data temporarily stored, the reception control CPU 120 for receiving the input of various signals from the outside of the presentation control board 12 via the I / O 125, and the presentation control CPU 120 for I / O A transmission operation for outputting various signals to the outside of the effect control board 12 via O125 is also performed.

  The effect control CPU 120, the ROM 121, and the RAM 122 may be included in a one-chip effect control microcomputer mounted on the effect control board 12. Alternatively, while the production control CPU 120 is built in the production control microcomputer, at least one of the ROM 121 and the RAM 122 may be externally attached to the production control microcomputer. The random number circuit 124 may be any one that is built in or externally attached to the production control microcomputer. In the effect control board 12, wiring for transmitting a video signal to the image display device 5, wiring for transmitting a sound effect signal as an information signal indicating sound number data to the sound control board 13, Wiring for transmitting an electrical decoration signal as an information signal indicating lamp data is connected to the lamp control board 14. In addition, the production control board 12 is provided with drive command signals for driving the production movable members 32A to 32C and instructing execution of predetermined production operations corresponding to the production movable members 32A to 32C. Wiring for transmitting to the movable member drive motors 33A to 33C is also connected.

  On the effect control board 12, for example, the random number circuit 124 or the like counts the numerical data indicating various random values used for controlling the effect operation so as to be updatable. The random number used for controlling such a production operation is also called a production random number. As an example, on the side of the effect control board 12, control is performed so that the random number value for determining the notice execution and the numerical data indicating the random value for selecting various notice effects are countable. In addition, in order to improve a production effect, random numbers other than these may be used. For example, numerical data indicating a random number value for determining the final stop symbol used for determining a final decorative symbol (final stop symbol) that becomes a variable display result of the decorative symbol may be controlled to be countable.

  With such a physical configuration, the effect control board 12 executes various effects such as a prefetch effect, a notice effect, and a reach effect based on various commands transmitted from the main substrate 11 via the relay substrate 15.

  The pre-reading effect is executed after the game ball passes through the first or second start winning opening and the variable display start condition is satisfied until the start condition is satisfied. During the variable display corresponding to the reach variation pattern, this is an effect operation for notifying the possibility that the variable display result of the pre-read target variable display (also referred to as the variable display) becomes a big hit gaming state. In this embodiment, in this embodiment, as a pre-reading effect, a plurality of types of pre-reading are executed in different modes that are identifiable by players even when they are simultaneously executed in one variable display, with different ratios of jackpots. Production can be performed. Specifically, the first prefetch effect that changes the display mode of the hold display in the start winning memory display area 5H, the second prefetch effect that operates one or more of the effect movable members 32A to 32C, and the image display device 5 A third look-ahead effect that changes the display mode of the background image displayed in the display area is executed. With such a configuration, the player's expectation can be raised by various prefetching effects.

  The notice effect can be a big hit gaming state based on the variable display result from the start of the variable display of the special symbol or decorative symbol until the finalized special symbol or final decorative symbol that is the variable display result is derived. This is a performance operation that warns of sex. In this embodiment, it is possible to execute a combination of a plurality of notice effects having different effects. In addition, the plurality of notice effects may be different from each other in an effect device that is executed, or may be executed at different timings. For example, a pre-reach pre-announcement effect or a pre-reach pre-announcement effect may be provided as a pre-announcement effect that can be executed using the same or separate production devices at a plurality of timings.

  The pre-reach pre-announcement effect is an effect operation for notifying the possibility of a big hit gaming state at a timing before the reach state is reached after the variable display of special symbols and decorative symbols is started. In this embodiment, the pre-reach pre-announcement effect is executed in any of a plurality of effect modes (notice effect modes YEP1-1 to YEP1-4) at a different rate depending on whether or not it is a “big hit”.

  The advance notice after reaching reach is an effect operation for notifying the possibility of a big hit gaming state at the timing after the variable display state of the decorative symbol becomes the reach state (timing after reach establishment). The timing after the reach is established may be, for example, a timing immediately after the decorative symbol variable display state becomes the reach state. Alternatively, the timing after the reach is established may be a predetermined timing during a period in which the decorative symbols are variably displayed in the reach mode of normal reach, for example. After the decorative symbol variable display state has reached the reach state, the variation speed of the decorative symbol in the “middle” decorative symbol display area 5C decreases, and variable display is first performed in the reach mode of normal reach. Then, in the “middle” decorative symbol display area 5C, the decorative symbol fluctuates further, the decorative symbol stops, and a fixed decorative symbol resulting in a variable display result is derived (in the case of normal reach). There is a case where the fluctuation speed is increased to shift to the reach mode of super reach (in the case of super reach).

  FIG. 10A shows a pre-reading effect that is executed in three variable displays before the variable display that is a target of the pre-reading effect and a notice effect that is executed in the variable display (the notice effect and reach before reaching reach). The execution timing of the notice effect after establishment) is shown. Specifically, when the pending storage information corresponding to the three variation pattern types CA1-1 (“no reach (lack) pseudo-continuous”) is continuously stored, the variation pattern type is CA2-1 ( This corresponds to a case where a start winning command (such as a variable category command) corresponding to “normal reach (losing)” or CA3-1 (“normal reach (big hit)”) is received. In this case, a mode different from normal hold display (for example, a hold display corresponding to the case where the first look-ahead effect is not executed, such as a plain sphere) as the first look-ahead effect since the start winning command is received. The hold display is performed. In addition, a second pre-reading effect that causes one or more of the effect movable members 32A to 32C to operate is executed at a predetermined timing during the first non-reach (losing) variable display. The background image displayed in the display area of the image display device 5 as the third prefetch effect during the second non-reach (losing) variable display (two before the variable display that is the target of the prefetch effect). Is changed to a display mode different from the normal mode. The third look-ahead effect is continued until the execution of the normal reach effect ends. The execution timings of the plurality of prefetch effects are determined in advance as the effect periods of the first to third prefetch effects. Furthermore, the timing for executing the pre-reach establishment notice effect and the reach establishment notice effect from the “design change start” to the “design change end” from which the display result is derived is, for example, a change pattern. Is determined in advance by a special-fluctuation production control pattern corresponding to

  FIG. 10B shows a pre-reading effect that is executed in the four variable displays before the variable display that is a target of the pre-reading effect and a notice effect that is executed in the variable display (the notice effect and reach before reaching reach). The execution timing of the notice effect after establishment) is shown. Specifically, during variable display corresponding to the variation pattern type CA1-1 (“no reach (losing) pseudo-continuity”), the stored storage information corresponding to the three variation pattern types CA1-1 is continuously displayed. When the start-up winning command (variable category command or the like) corresponding to the variation pattern type CA2-2 ("super reach (losing)") or CA3-2 ("super reach (big hit)") is stored. Corresponding to when received. In this case, a mode different from normal hold display (for example, a hold display corresponding to the case where the first look-ahead effect is not executed, such as a plain sphere) as the first look-ahead effect since the start winning command is received. The hold display is performed. In addition, the second movable member 32A to 32C is operated at a predetermined timing during the second non-reach (losing) variable display (three times before the variable display that is the target of the pre-reading effect). A pre-reading effect is executed. The background image displayed in the display area of the image display device 5 as the third prefetch effect during the third non-reach (losing) variable display (two before the variable display that is the target of the prefetch effect). Is changed to a display mode different from the normal mode. The third look-ahead effect is continued until the super reach effect is started. The execution timings of the plurality of prefetch effects are determined in advance as the effect periods of the first to third prefetch effects. Furthermore, the timing for executing the pre-reach establishment notice effect and the reach establishment notice effect from the “design change start” to the “design change end” from which the display result is derived is, for example, a change pattern. Is determined in advance by a special-fluctuation production control pattern corresponding to

  The effect modes (effect contents) in a plurality of prefetch effects (first to third prefetch effects) having different start times and execution timings are set corresponding to the prefetch effect patterns that are used patterns. Moreover, the 1st-3rd prefetch effect is set in the some stage from which possibility of becoming a big hit game state differs, for example. In this embodiment, the highest third stage is set for each of the first to third prefetch effects from the first stage having the lowest jackpot reliability. For example, in the first look-ahead effect, the hold display is changed for each stage (for example, the hold display is silver in the first stage, gold in the second stage, and star-shaped hold display in the third stage. )Control. Also, in the second look-ahead effect, the number of moving movable members 32A to 32C varies for each stage (for example, one for the first stage, two for the second stage, and three for the third stage) Control so that the movable member operates. Furthermore, the background displayed in the third look-ahead effect is different for each stage (for example, a rainy image is displayed in the first stage, a storm image is displayed in the second stage, and a flower snowfall image is displayed in the third stage. Control). In this way, by executing a pre-reading effect having a plurality of stages that are big hits in such a manner that the player can recognize which stage it is, the player's sense of expectation is given in different sizes for each stage. Therefore, it is possible to enhance the effect of the prefetching effect.

  In addition, the effect mode (effect contents) in a plurality of notice effects (the notice effect before the reach is established and the notice effect after the reach is established) executed at a plurality of timings is set corresponding to the notice pattern as the use pattern. In addition, the effect mode (effect contents) in the notice effect (the notice effect before the reach is established and the notice effect after the reach is established) executed at each timing is different depending on, for example, the jackpot reliability that is likely to be the big hit gaming state. It will be a thing. In the present embodiment, the presentation mode to be selected is limited according to the execution contents of the pre-reading effect for the pre-reaching announcement effect for the reach establishment before reach, and according to the execution content of the announcement effect before the reach establishment for the announcement effect after the reach establishment. The Specifically, a plurality of the first to third pre-reading effects are executed, and a predetermined condition such that the content of the executed pre-reading effect is higher than the specific ratio in the jackpot reliability of the highest level pre-reading effect. When satisfying, the pre-reach pre-announcement effect is executed in an effect mode with higher jackpot reliability than a predetermined standard. In other words, the execution of the pre-reach announcement effect whose jackpot reliability is below a predetermined standard is limited. Some players pay attention to the previously performed performance. After the pre-reading effect is executed so as to satisfy the predetermined condition, and the player's expectation is enhanced, if the player performs the pre-reach notice effect with a high degree of attention in a manner with a low jackpot reliability, Although the player may be discouraged and the interest of the game may be reduced, such a configuration can prevent the discouragement of the player who felt a sense of expectation by the pre-reading effect. It should be noted that the notice effect after the reach is established is executed in an effect mode that is equal to or greater than the jackpot reliability indicated in the notice effect before the reach is established in order to prevent the player from being discouraged.

  When the pre-reach announcement effect as shown in FIG. 10 is executed, different jackpot reliability can be obtained by changing the type and number of characters displayed in the predetermined area of the image display device 5 according to the jackpot reliability. It is only necessary to be able to foresee. Further, as the notice effect after the reach is established, a different big hit is obtained by changing the type / number of characters displayed in the predetermined area of the image display device 5 according to the big hit reliability with respect to the notice effect before the reach is established. It suffices if the reliability can be notified in advance.

  FIG. 11 shows the execution timing of the notice effect in the case where the pseudo continuous variation is executed three times in the “pseudo continuous” variable display effect. In this case, before the first quasi-continuous variation is executed, that is, before the decorative symbol that becomes the quasi-continuous chance is derived, the re-variation start notice effect and the first to third quasi-continuous representations are performed. The timing for executing the pseudo-annual announcement effect executed during the change is determined in advance by, for example, a special-figure change effect control pattern corresponding to the change pattern. In addition, the presentation mode (effect content) in the notice effect (the notice effect before the start of re-variation and the pseudo-annual notice effect executed during the first to third pseudo-variable changes) executed at each timing is, for example, a jackpot gaming state Depending on the jackpot reliability, which is a possibility of becoming different. In the present embodiment, the preliminary announcement effect before the start of re-variation is executed before the execution timing of the pseudo-annual announcement effect executed during the first to third pseudo-variables according to the execution contents of the pre-reading effect. Depending on the execution contents of the notice effect, the effect modes to be selected are limited. Specifically, a plurality of the first to third pre-reading effects are executed, and the content of the executed pre-reading effects is high, for example, the jackpot reliability of the highest level pre-reading effect is higher than a specific ratio. When the condition is satisfied, the notice effect before the start of re-variation is executed in an effect mode in which the big hit reliability is higher than a predetermined standard. In other words, execution of the notice effect before the start of re-variation in which the jackpot reliability is not more than a predetermined standard is limited. Some players pay attention to the previously performed performance. When the pre-reading effect is executed so as to satisfy the predetermined condition and the player's expectation is enhanced, if the player performs the notice effect before starting the re-variation with a high degree of attention of the player in a mode with a low hit reliability Although the player may be discouraged and the interest of the game may be lowered, such a configuration can prevent the discouragement of the player who felt a sense of expectation by the pre-reading effect. In addition, the pseudo-annual announcement effect executed during the first to third pseudo-rendition fluctuations is an effect mode that is equal to or higher than the jackpot reliability shown in the immediately preceding announcement effect in order to prevent the player from being disappointed. Executed.

  When an effect as shown in FIG. 11 is executed, in the step-up notice effect in which different character images are displayed in order at each timing, the number of stages (steps in which the effect display (number of characters to be displayed, etc.) has changed. It is sufficient that different jackpot reliability can be notified according to the number).

  The step-up notice effect is a notice effect that changes the effect state in stages from one stage to a plurality of stages according to a predetermined order. In the step-up notice effect, when the effect state changes stepwise up to a large number of stages, there is a higher possibility of a big hit gaming state than when the step-up notice effect ends in a small number of stages. In the step-up notice effect, the shape and color of one character may change, and the state of the means for giving notice (display, sound, lamp, effect model, etc.) as seen from the player changes stepwise. Anything can be recognized. For example, in addition to the case where the number of characters displayed in stages increases, the number of characters moving in stages increases, the number of times the character moves, the frequency, etc. increase in stages. There may be cases where it becomes larger. Further, instead of displaying the effect image indicating the character, or together with the display of the effect image, the operation state of the effect model may be changed stepwise. Then, when there are a plurality of production models, the number of production models to be moved increases stepwise, or the number and frequency of movement of the production models increase step by step, resulting in a big hit gaming state. It is only necessary to be able to foresee that the possibility will increase step by step.

  In addition, the specific contents of the effect operation in each of the notice effect before the reach establishment, the notice effect after the reach establishment, the notice effect before the re-variation, and the pseudo-announcement notice effect are not limited to the above, and differ depending on each effect mode. Any effect operation that allows the player to recognize the jackpot reliability or the like, such as generating a sound effect or causing the game effect lamp to emit light in a different manner, may be used.

  In addition to the effect control program, the ROM 121 mounted on the effect control board 12 shown in FIG. 2 stores various data tables used for controlling the effect operation. For example, the ROM 121 includes a plurality of determination tables prepared for the effect control CPU 120 to perform various determinations, determinations, and settings, table data configuring the determination table, pattern data configuring various effect control patterns, and the like. It is remembered.

  As an example, in the ROM 121, an effect control CPU 120 includes various effect devices (for example, the image display device 5, speakers 8L and 8R, game effect lamps 9 and decoration LEDs, effect lighting accessories 90, effect movable members 32A to 32A). An effect control pattern table storing a plurality of types of effect control patterns used for controlling the effect operation by 32C or the like) is stored. The effect control pattern is composed of data indicating the control contents corresponding to various effect operations executed in accordance with the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1. The effect control pattern table only needs to store, for example, an effect control pattern during special figure change, a notice effect control pattern, and various effect control patterns.

  The special-control variation production control pattern corresponds to a plurality of types of variation patterns in the period from the start of the variation of the special symbol in the special-sign game until the finalized special symbol that is the special-sign display result is derived and displayed. It is composed of data indicating control contents of various effect operations such as a variable display operation of decorative symbols, an effect display operation in a reach effect, or various effect display operations not accompanied by a variable display of decorative symbols. The notice effect control pattern is composed of data indicating the control content of the effect operation for each of a single or a plurality of notice effects executed according to the determination result of the notice pattern. The various effect control patterns are composed of data indicating the control contents corresponding to various effect operations executed in accordance with the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1.

  FIG. 12A shows a configuration example of each effect control pattern. In the configuration example shown in FIG. 12A, the effect control pattern is derived from process data including, for example, an effect control process timer determination value, display control data, sound control data, lamp control data, operation detection control data, an end code, and the like. It is configured.

  The effect control process timer determination value is a value (determination value) that is compared with an effect control process timer value that is a stored value of the effect control process timer provided in the effect control timer setting unit 192, and executes each effect operation. A determination value corresponding to the time (effect time) is set in advance. In place of the effect control process timer determination value, for example, a predetermined effect control command is received from the main board 11, or a predetermined process is executed as a process for controlling the effect operation in the effect control CPU 120. The data indicating the switching timing of the production control may be set corresponding to the predetermined control content and processing content.

  The display control data includes data indicating the display mode of the effect image on the screen of the image display device 5 such as data indicating the variation mode of each decorative pattern during the variable display of the decorative symbol. That is, the display control data is data that designates the display operation of the effect image on the screen of the image display device 5. The voice control data includes data indicating the voice output mode from the speakers 8L and 8R, such as data indicating the output mode of sound effects in conjunction with the variable display operation of the decorative symbol during variable display of the decorative symbol, for example. Yes. That is, the audio control data is data that designates an audio output operation from the speakers 8L and 8R. The lamp control data includes data indicating the lighting operation mode of the illuminant, such as the game effect lamp 9, the decoration LED, and the effect lighting accessory 90, for example. That is, the lamp control data is data for designating the lighting operation of the light emitter.

  Note that these control data do not have to be included in all the effect control patterns, but an effect control pattern including a part of the control data according to the contents of the effect operation by each effect control pattern. There may be. Further, in the plural types of process data included in the effect control pattern, the types of control data constituting each process data may be different according to the contents of the effect operation executed at each timing. That is, there may be process data configured to include all of the display control data, sound control data, lamp control data, and operation detection control data, or process data configured to include a part of these. Furthermore, for example, various other control data such as production movable member control data indicating an operation mode in the production movable members 32A to 32C may be included.

  FIG. 12B shows various rendering operations that are executed according to the contents of the rendering control pattern. The production control CPU 120 determines the control content of the production operation according to various control data included in the production control pattern. For example, when the effect control process timer value matches one of the effect control process timer determination values, the decorative design is displayed in a manner specified by the display control data associated with the effect control process timer determination value, and the character Control is performed to display effect images such as images and background images on the screen of the image display device 5. In addition, control is performed to output sound from the speakers 8L and 8R in a manner specified by the sound control data, and control is performed to blink a light emitter such as the game effect lamp 9 in a manner specified by the lamp control data. Note that dummy data (data not specifying control) may be set as data corresponding to a production component that does not become a control target even though it corresponds to the production control process timer determination value. The effect operation shown in FIG. 12B corresponds to the entire period from the start of the change of the decorative design to the final stop, but is not limited to this, and during the variable display of the decorative design An effect control pattern for executing the effect operation corresponding to a part of the period may be provided. Alternatively, in order to execute the presentation operation corresponding to a predetermined period other than the variable display of the decorative symbols (for example, a period in which a round is being executed in the jackpot gaming state, a period in which an ending effect is executed at the end of the jackpot gaming state, etc.) The effect control pattern may be provided.

  The effect control CPU 120 sets an effect control pattern (special-figure variation effect control pattern) based on the variation pattern indicated in the variation pattern designation command, for example, when starting variable display of decorative symbols. In addition, the production control CPU 120 sets a corresponding production control pattern (preliminary production control pattern), for example, when variable display of decorative symbols is started in response to the determination result of the announcement pattern. Here, when setting the effect control pattern, the pattern data constituting the corresponding effect control pattern may be read from the ROM 121 and temporarily stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 122, or the corresponding effect control pattern is configured. The storage address of the pattern data in the ROM 121 may be temporarily stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 122 and the reading position of the storage data in the ROM 121 may be designated.

  After that, every time the production control process timer value is updated, it is determined whether or not it matches any of the production control process timer judgment values. If they match, the production operation according to the corresponding various control data Control. In this way, the effect control CPU 120 performs effect devices (image display device 5, speakers 8L and 8R, game effect lamps) according to the contents of process data # 1 to process data #n (n is an arbitrary integer) included in the effect control pattern. 9 and the like, and the control of the production movable members 32A to 32C and the like are advanced. In each process data # 1 to process data #n, display control data # 1 to display control data #n and voice control data # 1 to voice control associated with production control process timer determination values # 1 to #n are provided. Data #n, lamp control data # 1 to lamp control data #n, and operation detection control data # 1 to operation detection control data #n indicate the control content of the rendering operation in the rendering device and specify the execution of the rendering control. Control execution data # 1 to production control execution data #n are configured.

  A command according to the effect control pattern set in this way is output from the effect control CPU 120 to the display control unit 123, the sound control board 13, the lamp control board 14, the movable member drive motors 33A to 33C, and the like. In the display control unit 123 that has received a command from the effect control CPU 120, for example, a predetermined VDP or the like is developed by reading out image data indicated by the command from an image data memory such as CGROM and temporarily storing it in the VRAM. On the voice control board 13 that has received a command from the effect control CPU 120, for example, the voice synthesis IC reads out the voice data indicated by the command from the voice data ROM and temporarily stores it in the voice RAM or the like. .

  The RAM 122 mounted on the effect control board 12 shown in FIG. 2 is provided with an effect control data holding area 190 as shown in FIG. 13, for example, as an area for holding various data used for controlling the effect operation. ing. The effect control data holding area 190 shown in FIG. 13 includes an effect control flag setting unit 191, an effect control timer setting unit 192, an effect control counter setting unit 193, and an effect control buffer setting unit 194.

  The effect control flag setting unit 191 has a plurality of types whose states can be updated according to the effect operation state such as the display state of the effect image on the screen of the image display device 5, the effect control command transmitted from the main board 11, and the like. The flag is provided. For example, the effect control flag setting unit 191 stores data indicating flag values and data indicating an on state or an off state for each of the plurality of types of flags. The effect control timer setting unit 192 is provided with a plurality of types of timers used for controlling the progress of various effect operations such as, for example, an effect image display operation on the screen of the image display device 5. For example, the production control timer setting unit 192 stores data indicating timer values in each of a plurality of types of timers. The effect control counter setting unit 193 is provided with a plurality of types of counters used for controlling the progress of various effect operations. For example, the production control counter setting unit 193 stores data indicating the count value in each of a plurality of types of counters. The effect control buffer setting unit 194 is provided with various buffers that temporarily store data used for controlling the progress of various effect operations. For example, the effect control buffer setting unit 194 stores data indicating buffer values in each of a plurality of types of buffers.

  The display control unit 123 mounted on the effect control board 12 shown in FIG. 2 determines the control content of the display operation in the image display device 5 based on the display control command from the effect control CPU 120. For example, the display control unit 123 performs control for executing decorative display variable display and various effect displays by determining the switching timing of effect images to be displayed in the display area of the image display device 5. As an example, the display control unit 123 may be equipped with a VDP (Video Display Processor), a CGROM (Character Generator ROM), a VRAM (Video RAM), an LCD drive circuit, and the like. The VDP may be a graphics processing unit (GPU), a graphics controller LSI (GCL), or a microprocessor for image processing, more commonly referred to as a digital signal processor (DSP). The CGROM may be, for example, a non-rewritable semiconductor memory, a rewritable semiconductor memory such as a flash memory, or a non-volatile recording medium such as a magnetic memory or an optical memory. Any configuration may be used.

  The I / O 125 mounted on the effect control board 12 transmits various signals to the outside of the effect control board 12 and an input port for taking in various signals such as an effect control command transmitted from the main board 11, for example. And an output port. For example, from the output port of the I / O 125, a video signal transmitted to the image display device 5, a command (sound effect signal) transmitted to the sound control board 13, and a command transmitted to the lamp control board 14 (Electric decoration signal), a command (drive control signal) transmitted to the movable member drive motors 33A to 33C, and the like are output.

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

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

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

  When the game control timer interrupt process shown in FIG. 15 is started, the CPU 103 first executes a predetermined switch process, thereby causing the gate switch 21, the first start port switch 22A, and the second start port to pass through the switch circuit 110. The state of detection signals input from various switches such as the switch 22B and the count switch 23 is determined (step S11). Subsequently, by executing predetermined main-side error processing, abnormality diagnosis of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is performed, and if necessary, a warning can be generated according to the diagnosis result (step S12). After this, by executing a predetermined information output process, as information to be output to the outside of the pachinko gaming machine 1, for example, jackpot information, start information supplied to a hall management computer installed outside the pachinko gaming machine 1 Information (data) related to the pachinko gaming machine 1 such as probability variation information is output from the information output circuit (step S13).

  Following the information output process, a game random number update process for updating at least a part of the game random numbers such as random number values MR1 to MR5 used on the main board 11 side by software is executed (step S14). Thereafter, the CPU 103 executes special symbol process processing (step S15). In the special symbol process, the value of the special symbol process flag provided in the game control flag setting unit 152 is updated according to the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1, and the first special symbol display device 4A or the second special symbol is processed. Various processes are selected and executed in order to perform control of display operation in the display device 4B and setting of opening / closing operation of the special winning opening in the special variable winning ball device 7 in a predetermined procedure.

  Following the special symbol process, the normal symbol process is executed (step S16). The CPU 103 controls the display operation (for example, turning on / off the segment LED, etc.) on the normal symbol display 20 by executing the normal symbol process, so that the variable display of the normal symbol and the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B are movable. Enables setting of the tilting movement of the blade. After executing the normal symbol process, the CPU 103 transmits a control command from the main board 11 to a sub-side control board such as the effect control board 12 by executing the command control process (step S17). As an example, in the command control process, the effect control among the output ports included in the I / O 105 corresponding to the setting in the command transmission table specified by the value of the transmission command buffer provided in the game control buffer setting unit 155. After setting the control data in the output port for transmitting the effect control command to the board 12, the predetermined control data is set in the output port of the effect control INT signal and the effect control INT signal is turned on for a predetermined time. By changing the state to the off state, the presentation control command can be transmitted based on the setting in the command transmission table. After executing the command control process, after setting the interrupt enabled state, the game control timer interrupt process is terminated.

  FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing an example of processing executed in step S15 shown in FIG. 14 as the special symbol process. In this special symbol process, the CPU 103 first executes a start winning determination process (step S101). FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing an example of the start winning determination process executed in step S101.

  When the start winning determination process is started, the CPU 103 first determines the first start opening based on the detection signal from the first start opening switch 22A provided corresponding to the first start winning opening formed by the normal winning ball apparatus 6A. It is determined whether or not the switch 22A is on (step S201). At this time, if the first start port switch 22A is on (step S201; Yes), the first special figure holding memory number that is the holding memory number of the special figure game using the first special figure is a predetermined upper limit value. It is determined whether or not (for example, “4”) (step S202). At this time, for example, the CPU 103 only needs to be able to identify the first special figure reserved memory number by reading the first reserved memory number count value which is the stored value of the first reserved memory number counter provided in the game control counter setting unit. . When the number of first special figure reservation storage is not the upper limit value in step S202 (step S202; No), for example, the stored value of the start port buffer provided in the game control buffer setting unit 155 is set to “1” ( Step S203).

  When the first start-up switch 22A is OFF in step S201 (step S201; No), or when the first special figure reservation storage number reaches the upper limit value in step S202 (step S202; Yes), it is normal. It is determined whether or not the second start port switch 22B is on based on a detection signal from the second start port switch 22B provided corresponding to the second start winning port formed by the variable winning ball apparatus 6B ( Step S204). At this time, if the second start port switch 22B is ON (step S204; Yes), the second special figure holding memory number that is the holding memory number of the special figure game using the second special figure is a predetermined upper limit value. It is determined whether or not (for example, “4”) (step S205). At this time, for example, the CPU 103 only needs to be able to identify the second special figure reserved memory number by reading the second reserved memory number count value that is the stored value of the second reserved memory number counter provided in the game control counter setting unit. . When the second special figure holding storage number is not the upper limit value in step S205 (step S205; No), for example, the stored value of the start port buffer provided in the game control buffer setting unit 155 is set to “2” ( Step S206).

  After either of the processes of steps S203 and S206 is executed, the pending storage number count value is updated by 1 according to the start port buffer value that is the stored value of the start port buffer (step S207). For example, when the starting port buffer value is “1”, the first reserved memory number count value is incremented by 1, while when the starting port buffer value is “2”, the second reserved memory number count value is incremented by one. Thus, the first reserved memory number count value is 1 when the game ball passes (enters) the first start winning opening and the first start condition corresponding to the special figure game using the first special figure is satisfied. Updated to increase. Further, the second reserved memory number count value is 1 when the game ball passes (enters) the second start winning opening and the second start condition corresponding to the special figure game using the second special figure is satisfied. Updated to increase. At this time, for example, the total reserved memory number count value, which is the stored value of the total reserved memory number counter provided in the game control counter setting unit, is updated to add 1 (step S208).

  After executing the processing of step S208, the CPU 103 determines the random number value MR1 for determining the special figure display result and determining the jackpot type from the numerical data updated by the random counter of the random number circuit 104 or the game control counter setting unit. The numerical data indicating the random value MR2 and the random value MR3 for determining the variation pattern type are extracted (step S209). The numerical data indicating each random value extracted in this way is stored as reserved data by being set at the head of the empty entry in the special figure storage unit corresponding to the start port buffer value (step S210). For example, when the start port buffer value is “1”, the hold data is set in the first special figure hold storage unit 151A, while when the start port buffer value is “2”, the hold data is held in the second special figure hold. It is set in the storage unit 151B.

  Subsequent to the process of step S210, transmission setting of a start port winning designation command corresponding to the start port buffer value is performed (step S211). For example, when the starting port buffer value is “1”, the storage address of the first starting port winning designation command table in the ROM 101 is stored in the buffer area designated by the transmission command pointer in the transmission command buffer. 12 is set to transmit a first start opening winning designation command. On the other hand, when the starting port buffer value is “2”, the storage address of the second starting port winning designation command table in the ROM 101 is stored in the buffer area of the transmission command buffer. Setting for transmitting the second start opening winning designation command is performed. Following the process of step S211, a winning random number determination process described later is executed (step S211A). Then, for example, by storing the storage address of the reserved storage number notification command table in the ROM 101 in the buffer area designated by the transmission command pointer in the transmission command buffer, the reserved storage number notification command is transmitted to the effect control board 12. For this purpose (step S212). The start opening prize designation command and the reserved memory number notification command set in this way are produced from the main board 11 by executing the command control process in step S17 shown in FIG. 14 after the special symbol process process is completed, for example. It is transmitted to the control board 12.

  After executing the process of step S212, it is determined whether the start port buffer value is “1” or “2” (step S213). At this time, if the start port buffer value is “1” (step S213; “1”), the start port buffer is cleared and the stored value is initialized to “0” (step S214), and then step S204. Proceed to the process. On the other hand, when the starting port buffer value is “2” (step S213; “2”), the starting port buffer is cleared and its stored value is initialized to “0” (step S215). The start winning determination process is terminated.

  In this embodiment, when both of the first start port switch 22A and the second start port switch 22B detect the start winning of a game ball that is effective at the same time, both processes are executed by processing executed within 2 milliseconds. A process based on the fact that the switch has detected a start winning of a valid game ball is executed. That is, when the first start port switch 22A is on in step S201, the processing in steps S202 and S203 is performed, and then the processing in steps S207 to S212 is performed, and then the start port buffer value is determined in step S213. In response to “1”, the process of step S214 is executed, and then the process proceeds to step S204. Then, when the second start port switch 22B is on in step S204, the processing of steps S205 to S212 is executed, and then in step S213, the start port buffer value is “2”. After performing the process of S215, the start winning determination process is terminated. As a result, even when both the first start port switch 22A and the second start port switch 22B detect an effective winning of a game ball at the same time, it is possible to reliably complete the processing based on the detection of both effective starting winnings.

  FIG. 17 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process executed in step S211A in FIG. 16 as the winning random number determination process. In this embodiment, when variable display of special symbols and decoration symbols is started, special symbol display results (variable display results of special symbols) are obtained by special symbol normal processing (step S110 in FIG. 15, FIG. 18) described later. A determination is made as to whether or not to control the big hit gaming state as “big hit”. Further, in a variation pattern setting process (step S111 in FIG. 15, FIG. 19), which will be described later, determination of a variation pattern type that abstractly classifies the variable display mode of decorative symbols, and specific definition of the variable display mode of decorative symbols. The variation pattern to be determined is determined. On the other hand, apart from these determinations, the CPU 103 executes the winning random number determination process in step S211A at the timing when the game ball is detected at the starting winning opening (first starting winning opening or second starting winning opening). As a result, it is determined whether or not the special symbol display result is the random value MR1 that is determined to derive and display the jackpot symbol, and whether or not the variable display mode of the decorative symbol is a predetermined display mode with super reach. And so on. As a result, the special symbol display result becomes “big hit” or the decorative symbol variable display mode before the variable symbol special symbol display based on the detection of the game ball that has entered the start winning opening is started. Can be determined to be a predetermined display mode, and based on the prediction result, it can be determined whether or not to perform the pre-reading effect by the effect control CPU 120 or the like on the effect control board 12 side.

  In the winning random number determination process shown in FIG. 17, the CPU 103 first checks the state of the probability variation flag provided in a predetermined area (game control flag setting unit) of the RAM 102, for example, in the pachinko gaming machine 1. The current gaming state is specified (step S401).

  Thereafter, it is determined whether or not the numerical data indicating the random number value MR1 for determining the special figure display result extracted in step S209 in FIG. 16 is within a predetermined jackpot determination range (step S403). In the big hit determination range, individual decision values assigned to the special figure display result of “big hit” in the special figure display result decision table 130 are set, and the CPU 103 compares the random number MR1 with each decision value one by one. It suffices to determine whether or not there is a decision value that matches the random value MR1. Alternatively, a numerical value indicating the minimum value (lower limit value) and the maximum value (upper limit value) of the determination value included in the jackpot determination range is set, and the CPU 103 determines the random number MR1 and the minimum value or maximum value of the jackpot determination range. It is only necessary to determine whether or not the random value MR1 is within the range of the jackpot determination range by comparison. At this time, when it is determined that the random value MR1 is within the range of the jackpot determination range, it is determined that the variable display result based on the pending data including the random value MR1 is determined to be “big hit” (big hit start determination) it can.

  If it is determined in step S403 that it is not within the big hit determination range (step S403; No), a symbol designation command corresponding to the case where the variable display result is “lost” is transmitted to the effect control board 12. Is set (step S405). Then, according to the determination result that the variable display result is “losing”, the loss variation pattern type determination table 132B is determined as a table used for determination of a variation category, which will be described later (step S406).

  If it is determined in step S403 that it is within the jackpot determination range (step S403; Yes), it is determined by referring to the jackpot type determination table 131 whether the jackpot type is determined from a plurality of types. (S409). Settings for transmitting the symbol designation command corresponding to the determination result of the process in step S409 to the effect control board 12 are performed (step S410). Then, according to the determination result that the variable display result is “big hit”, the big hit variation pattern type determination table 132A is determined as a table used for determination of a variation category, which will be described later (step S411).

  After executing one of the processes of steps S406 and S411, the random value MR3 is determined using the variation pattern type determination table determined in each process and the numerical data indicating the random value MR3 for determining the variation pattern type. The variation category corresponding to the range of the determined value including is determined (step S412). Thereafter, after setting for transmitting a variation category command corresponding to the determination result in the process of step S412 to the effect control board 12 (step S413), the winning random number determination process is terminated.

  After the start winning determination process shown in FIG. 16 and the winning random number determination process shown in FIG. 17 are executed, the command control process in step S17 shown in FIG. 14 is executed to thereby execute the first start winning opening and the second start winning prize. When the first starting condition or the second starting condition is satisfied when the game ball passes (enters) through the mouth, a starting opening prize designation command (first starting opening prize designation command or second starting slot prize designation command), design designation Four commands, that is, a command, a variable category command, and a pending storage count notification command (first pending storage count notification command or second pending storage count notification command) are collectively transmitted as one set within one timer interrupt. Note that the commands are not limited to those that are transmitted all at once in one timer interrupt, and commands may be sequentially transmitted one by one by the command control process in step S17 for each timer interrupt.

  After executing the start winning determination process at step S101 shown in FIG. Select and execute.

  The special symbol normal process in step S110 is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is “0”. In this special symbol normal processing, the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol are based on the presence / absence of reserved data stored in the first special symbol reservation storage unit 151A and the second special diagram reservation storage unit 151B. It is determined whether or not to start the special game using the display device 4B. Further, in the special symbol normal processing, whether or not the variable display result of the special symbol or the decorative symbol is set to “big hit” based on the numerical data indicating the random value MR1 for determining the special symbol display result is determined by the variable display result. Make a decision (predetermined) before being displayed. Further, in the special symbol normal process, in response to the variable display result of the special symbol in the special symbol game, the confirmed special symbol (the big hit symbol or the like in the special symbol game by the first special symbol display device 4A or the second special symbol display device 4B). One of the lost symbols) is set. In the special symbol normal process, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to “1” when the variable display result of the special symbol or the decorative symbol is determined in advance.

  The variation pattern setting process in step S111 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is “1”. This variation pattern setting process includes a process for determining the variation pattern type as one of a plurality of types based on the result of prior determination as to whether or not the variable display result is “big hit”, and the result of determination of the variation pattern type. Corresponding to the above, a process for determining one of a plurality of types of variation patterns is included. When the variation pattern setting process is executed, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “2”.

  The special symbol variation process in step S112 is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is “2”. This special symbol variation process includes a process for setting the special symbol to be varied in the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B, and an elapsed time after the special symbol starts to vary. It includes processing to measure For example, every time the special symbol variation process of step S112 is executed, the special diagram variation timer value, which is the stored value in the special diagram variation timer provided in the game control timer setting unit 153, is subtracted or incremented by one. Regardless of whether the game is a special game using the first special symbol in the first special symbol display device 4A or a special game using the second special symbol in the second special symbol display device 4B, a common timer is used. The elapsed time is measured. Further, it is also determined whether or not the measured elapsed time has reached a special figure fluctuation time corresponding to the fluctuation pattern. As described above, the special symbol variation process in step S112 is performed in the special symbol variation in the special symbol game using the first special symbol in the first special symbol display device 4A or the second special symbol display device 4B in the second special symbol display device 4B. It suffices if it is a process for controlling the variation of the special symbol in the special figure game using the figure by a common processing routine. When the elapsed time since the start of the special symbol variation reaches the special symbol variation time, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to “3”.

  The special symbol stop process in step S113 is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is “3”. In the special symbol stop process, the first special symbol display device 4A or the second special symbol display device 4B stops the change of the special symbol, and the fixed special symbol which is the variable symbol display result is stopped and displayed. A process for setting is included. Then, it is determined whether or not the jackpot flag provided in the game control flag setting unit 152 is turned on. When the jackpot flag is turned on, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “4”. Is done. On the other hand, when the big hit flag is off, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “0”.

  The big hit release pre-processing in step S114 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is “4”. This big hit release pre-processing includes a process for starting the execution of the round in the big hit gaming state and setting the big winning opening to the open state based on the fact that the variable display result becomes “big hit”, etc. include. In this case, for example, the upper limit of the period during which the big winning opening is opened may be set in accordance with whether the big hit type is “non-probability change” or “probability change”. As an example, by setting the upper limit of the period during which the big winning opening is in the open state to “29 seconds” and setting the number of opening of the big winning opening to be the upper limit number of times to execute the round to “15 times”, 15R It is only necessary to set the big hit state. At this time, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “5”.

  The big hit release processing in step S115 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is "5". The big hit opening process includes a process for measuring an elapsed time after the big winning opening is opened, a number of game balls detected by the measured elapsed time and the count switch 23, and the like. The process etc. which determine whether it became the timing which returns to a closed state from an open state are included. Then, when returning the special winning opening to the closed state, after performing processing for stopping the supply of the solenoid driving signal to the special winning opening door solenoid 82, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “6”. .

  The big hit release post-processing in step S116 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is “6”. In this post-hit opening process, the process of determining whether or not the number of rounds in which the winning opening is in the open state has reached the maximum number of opening of the big winning opening, or the maximum number of opening of the big winning opening has been reached. In some cases, processing for setting to transmit a jackpot end designation command is included. When the number of round executions has not reached the maximum value of the number of times of winning the special winning opening, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “5”. The value of the process flag is updated to “7”.

  The big hit end process in step S117 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is “7”. In the jackpot end process, a waiting time corresponding to a period in which an ending effect as an effect operation for notifying the end of the jackpot game state is executed by an effect device such as the image display device 5, the speakers 8L and 8R, the game effect lamp 9 or the like. Processing that waits until time elapses and processing that performs various settings for controlling to a probable change state or a short time state corresponding to the big hit type are included. Then, when the setting for controlling to the probability change state or the time reduction state is performed, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “0”.

  FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing an example of the special symbol normal process executed in step S110 of FIG. In the special symbol normal process shown in FIG. 18, the CPU 103 first determines whether or not the second special figure holding storage number is “0” (step S231). The second special figure reserved memory number is the reserved memory number of the special figure game using the second special figure by the second special symbol display device 4B. For example, in the process of step S231, the second reserved memory number count value stored in the predetermined area (game control counter setting unit) of the RAM 102 is read, and it is determined whether or not the read value is “0”. Good.

  When the second special figure reservation storage number is other than “0” in step S231 (step S231; No), the second special figure reservation storage unit 151B stores the correspondence corresponding to the reservation number “1”. As the data, numerical data indicating the random number value MR1 for determining the special figure display result, the random value MR2 for determining the big hit type, and the random value MR3 for determining the variation pattern type are read out (step S232). The numerical data read at this time may be stored in a random number buffer for variation provided in a predetermined area (game control buffer setting unit) of the RAM 102 and temporarily stored.

  Subsequent to the processing of step S232, for example, the second reserved memory count value is decremented by 1 and updated to update the second special figure reserved memory count by 1, and a predetermined area (the first area of the RAM 102) In the 2 special figure storage unit), the hold data indicating the random number values MR1 to MR3 stored in the entries lower than the hold number “1” (for example, entries corresponding to the hold numbers “2” to “4”) are 1 The entry is shifted upward (step S233). In the process of step S233, the total reserved memory count value stored in the total reserved memory count counter may be updated by 1 in a predetermined area (game control counter setting unit) of the RAM 102. At this time, for example, the variable special figure designation buffer value, which is the stored value of the special figure designation buffer provided in a predetermined area (game control buffer setting unit) of the RAM 102, is updated to “2” (step S234).

  When the second special figure reserved memory number is “0” in step S231 (step S231; Yes), it is determined whether or not the first special figure reserved memory number is “0” (step S235). The first special figure reserved memory number is the reserved memory number of the special figure game using the first special figure by the first special symbol display device 4A. For example, in the process of step S235, the first reserved memory number count value stored in the first reserved memory number counter is read in a predetermined area (game control counter setting unit) of the RAM 102, and is the read value “0”? What is necessary is just to determine. Thus, the process of step S235 is executed when it is determined in step S231 that the second special figure reserved memory number is “0”, and the first special figure reserved memory number is “0”. It is determined whether or not. Thereby, execution of the special figure game using the second special figure is started in preference to the special figure game using the first special figure.

  It should be noted that the special game using the second special figure is not limited to a game executed with priority over the special graphic game using the first special figure. For example, the first start prize opening and the second start prize opening may be used. The execution of the special game may be started in the order in which the game balls enter (pass) and start winnings are generated. In this case, a table for storing data capable of specifying the order in which the start winnings are generated is provided, and the execution of the special game using either the first special figure or the second special figure is started from the stored data. It only has to be determined.

  When the number of first special figure hold memory is other than “0” in step S235 (step S235; No), it corresponds to the hold number “1” in a predetermined area (first special figure hold storage unit) of the RAM 102. Numeric data indicating the random number value MR1 for determining the special figure display result, the random value MR2 for determining the jackpot type, and the random value MR3 for determining the variation pattern type are read out as the stored hold data (step S236). The numerical data read at this time may be temporarily stored, for example, in a random number buffer for variation.

  Subsequent to the process of step S236, for example, by updating the first reserved memory number count value by subtracting 1 and updating the first special figure reserved memory number, the first special figure reserved memory is updated. In the section, the hold data indicating the random number values MR1 to MR3 stored in the entries lower than the hold number “1” (for example, entries corresponding to the hold numbers “2” to “4”) are shifted upward by one entry. (Step S237). In the process of step S237, the game control counter setting unit may update the total pending storage number count value stored in the total pending storage number counter by one. At this time, the variable special figure designation buffer value is updated to “1” (step S238).

  After executing one of the processes in steps S234 and S238, the special table display result, which is the variable symbol display result of the special symbol, is used as a special table for determining whether to make a “big hit” or “losing”. The figure display result determination table 130 is selected and set (step S239). At this time, the CPU 103 may select special figure display result determination table data used for determining the special figure display result corresponding to the current gaming state. Subsequently, the numerical data indicating the random number value MR1 for determining the special figure display result stored in the random number buffer for variation is compared with the determined values assigned to the special figure display results of “big hit” and “losing”. Depending on which special figure display result is assigned to the determined value, it is determined whether the special figure display result is “big hit” or “lost” (step S240).

  Since the special figure display result determination table data corresponding to the current gaming state is selected in step S239, in the process of step S240, the gaming state when the variable display of the special figure game or the like is started is a probable state. Whether or not the special figure display result is “big hit” is determined using different determination data. For example, when the game state when the variable display of a special figure game or the like is started is the normal state, the table data corresponding to the normal state (non-probability change state) in the special figure display result determination table 130 is normal. It is selected as data for determination, and a special figure display result corresponding to the random value MR1 is determined with reference to this data. On the other hand, when the game state when the variable display of the special figure game or the like is started is the probability change state, the table data corresponding to the case where the game state is the probability change state in the special figure display result determination table 130 is the special determination data. And a special figure display result corresponding to the random value MR1 is determined with reference to this.

  After determining the special figure display result in step S240, it is determined whether or not the special figure display result is “big hit” (step S241). If it is determined that the game is a “hit” (step S241; Yes), the big hit flag provided in the game control flag setting unit is set to the on state (step S242). At this time, the big hit type determination table 131 is selected and set as a use table for determining the big hit type as one of a plurality of types (step S243). By referring to the big hit type determination table 131 set in this way, numerical data indicating the big hit type determining random value MR2 stored in the random number buffer for fluctuation is assigned to the big hit type of “non-probability change” or “probability change”. Compared with the determined value, it is determined whether the jackpot type is “non-probable change” or “probability change” (step S244). Corresponding to the jackpot type determined in this way, for example, by setting a jackpot type buffer value which is a stored value of the jackpot type buffer provided in the game control buffer setting unit (step S245), the determined jackpot type is set. Remember. As an example, if the big hit type is “non-probable change”, the big hit type buffer value may be “0”, and if “big change”, it may be “1”.

  When it is determined in step S241 that it is not “big hit” (step S241; No), after executing the processing of step S245, a result of a prior decision as to whether or not to control the big hit gaming state, A confirmed special symbol is set in accordance with the determination result of the jackpot type in the gaming state (step S246). As an example, when it is determined in step S241 that the special figure display result is not “big hit”, the result is a lost symbol corresponding to the pre-determined result indicating that the special figure display result is “lost”. The special symbol indicating the symbol “-” is set as the confirmed special symbol. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S241 that the special figure display result is “big hit”, “3”, “7”, which are big hit symbols, according to the determination result of the big hit type in step S244. One of the special symbols indicating numbers is set as the confirmed special symbol. That is, according to the determination result that the big hit type is “non-probable change”, the special symbol indicating the number “3” that becomes the non-probable big hit symbol is set as the confirmed special symbol. Further, according to the determination result that the jackpot type is “probability change”, the special symbol indicating the number “7” that becomes the probability change big hit symbol is set as the confirmed special symbol.

  After the confirmed special symbol is set in step S246, the special symbol process flag value is updated to “1” which is a value corresponding to the variation pattern setting process (step S247), and then the special symbol normal process is terminated. . If the number of first special figure reservation storage is “0” in step S235 (step S235; Yes), a predetermined demonstration display setting is performed (step S248), and then the special symbol normal process is terminated. In this demonstration display setting, for example, a production control command (customer waiting demonstration designation command) for designating demonstration display (demonstration screen display) by displaying a predetermined production image on the screen of the image display device 5 is used as the main board 11. It is determined whether or not transmission to the effect control board 12 has been completed. At this time, if the transmission has been completed, the demonstration display setting is ended as it is. On the other hand, if it has not been transmitted, the setting for transmitting the customer waiting demonstration designation command is performed, and then the demonstration display setting is terminated.

  In such special symbol normal processing, for example, in step S240, whether or not the special symbol display result is determined as either “big hit” or “losing” is controlled in the special figure game. It can be determined before the special figure display result as the display result is derived.

  FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing an example of the variation pattern setting process executed in step S111 of FIG. In the variation pattern setting process shown in FIG. 19, the CPU 103 first determines whether or not the big hit flag is on (step S261). If the big hit flag is on (step S261; Yes), the big hit variation pattern type determination table 132A is selected and set as a use table for determining the variation pattern type as one of a plurality of types (step S262). ).

  When the big hit flag is OFF in step S261 (step S261; No), the loss variation pattern type determination table 132B is selected and set as a use table for determining one of a plurality of variation pattern types (step S261; No). Step S265).

  After executing the processing of step S263 or S265, for example, the variation pattern type determination set in the use table is made based on numerical data indicating the random value MR3 for variation pattern type determination stored in the variation random number buffer or the like. By referring to the table, the variation pattern type is determined as one of a plurality of types (step S267). Here, in the process of step S267, the variation pattern type of the decorative symbol corresponding to the special symbol game executed using the first special symbol by the first special symbol display device 4A based on the establishment of the first start condition is determined. Whether or not to determine the variation pattern type of the decorative symbol corresponding to the special symbol game executed using the second special symbol by the second special symbol display device 4B based on the fact that the second start condition is satisfied. First, using the numerical data indicating the common random number value MR3 for determining the variation pattern type updated by a common random counter or the like, the variation pattern type may be determined as one of a plurality of types by a common processing module. it can.

  When the big hit flag is off, the variation pattern type is determined as one of a plurality of types with reference to the loss variation pattern type determination table 132B selected in step S265. At this time, by determining the variation pattern type, it is determined whether the decorative symbol variable display mode is “non-reach” or “reach”. In other words, the process of step S267 includes a process of determining whether or not to change the variable display state of the decorative symbols to the reach state when the variable display result is “losing”.

  After determining the variation pattern type in step S267, the variation pattern determination table 133 is selected and set as a use table for determining one of a plurality of variation patterns (step S268). Subsequently, the variation pattern is determined as one of a plurality of types by referring to the variation pattern determination table 133 set in step S268 based on the numerical data indicating the random value MR4 for determining the variation pattern (step S269). . Numerical data indicating the random number MR4 for determining the variation pattern is extracted from a random counter or the like set in a predetermined area (game control counter setting unit) of the random number circuit 104 or RAM 102 when the process of step S269 is executed. Alternatively, the first special figure reservation storage unit together with the random numbers MR1 to MR3, which are extracted at the time of starting winning when the game ball that has passed (entered) the first starting winning opening and the second starting winning opening is detected. Alternatively, it may be stored as holding data in the second special figure holding storage unit.

  In the process of step S269, whether or not the variation pattern of the decorative symbol corresponding to the special symbol game executed using the first special symbol is determined by the first special symbol display device 4A based on the establishment of the first start condition, Regardless of whether the variation pattern of the decorative symbol corresponding to the special symbol game executed by using the second special symbol is determined by the second special symbol display device 4B based on the establishment of the second starting condition, a common random Using the numerical data indicating the common random number MR4 that is used for determining the variation pattern updated by a counter or the like, the variation pattern can be determined as one of a plurality of types by a common processing module. Further, in the process of step S269, regardless of the result of determination of the variation pattern type in step S267, a plurality of types of variation patterns are generated by a common processing module using numerical data indicating a common random value MR4 for determining the variation pattern. Either can be determined.

  After the change pattern is determined in step S269, a special figure change time which is a variable symbol display time corresponding to the change pattern determination result is set (step S270). The special figure change time, which is the variable display time of the special symbol, is the time required from the start of the change of the special symbol in the special figure game until the fixed special symbol that becomes the variable display result (special display result) is derived and displayed. It is. After executing the processing of step S270, a special game using the first special symbol in the first special symbol display device 4A and a second special symbol in the second special symbol display device 4B according to the variable special symbol designation buffer value. A setting for starting the variation of the special symbol is performed so as to start any of the special game using the figure (step S271). As an example, if the variable special symbol designation buffer value is “1”, a setting for transmitting a drive signal for updating the display of the first special symbol in the first special symbol display device 4A is performed. On the other hand, if the variable special symbol designation buffer value is “2”, a setting for transmitting a drive signal for updating the display of the second special symbol in the second special symbol display device 4B is performed.

  Subsequent to the processing in step S271, settings are made to transmit various commands for starting the change of the special symbol (step S272). For example, when the variation special figure designation buffer value is “1”, the CPU 103 sends a gaming state designation command, a first variation start command, a variation pattern designation command, a variable display result from the main board 11 to the effect control board 12. In order to sequentially transmit the notification command and the pending storage number notification command, setting data indicating a storage address (first address) in the ROM 101 of the first variation start command table prepared in advance is provided in the game control buffer setting unit. Stored in the buffer area designated by the transmission command pointer in the transmission command buffer. On the other hand, when the variation special figure designation buffer value is “2”, the CPU 103 sends a gaming state designation command, a second variation start command, a variation pattern designation command, a variable display result from the main board 11 to the effect control board 12. In order to sequentially transmit the notification command and the pending storage number notification command, the setting data indicating the storage address in the ROM 101 of the second variation start command table prepared in advance is a buffer designated by the transmission command pointer in the transmission command buffer. Store in the area. When the setting in step S272 is performed, the main board 11 performs the effect control board 12 each time the command control process in step S17 shown in FIG. A gaming state designation command, a first variation start command or a second variation start command, a variation pattern designation command, a variable display result notification command, and a pending storage number notification command are sequentially transmitted. The order in which these effect control commands are transmitted can be arbitrarily changed. For example, after the variable display result notification command is transmitted first, the first variation start command, the second variation start command, or the variation pattern designation command is transmitted. The game state designation command and the pending storage number notification command may be transmitted in this order. Thereafter, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “2” which is a value corresponding to the special symbol fluctuation process (step S273), and then the fluctuation pattern setting process is ended.

  Next, the operation in the effect control board 12 will be described. In the effect control board 12, when the supply of the power supply voltage is received from the power supply board or the like, the effect control CPU 120 is activated to execute the effect control main process as shown in the flowchart of FIG. When the effect control main process shown in FIG. 20 is started, the effect control CPU 120 first executes a predetermined initialization process (step S71), clears the RAM 122, sets various initial values, and displays the effect control board 12. Performs register settings for the mounted CTC (counter / timer circuit).

  Thereafter, it is determined whether or not the timer interrupt flag is on (step S72). The timer interrupt flag is provided in, for example, the production control flag setting unit 191 and is set to the on state every time a predetermined time (for example, 2 milliseconds) elapses based on the CTC register setting. At this time, if the timer interrupt flag is off (step S72; No), the process of step S72 is repeatedly executed and waits.

  On the side of the effect control board 12, an interrupt for receiving an effect control command from the main board 11 is generated separately from the timer interrupt that occurs every time a predetermined time elapses. This interruption is generated when, for example, an effect control INT signal from the main board 11 is turned on. When an interruption due to the turn-on of the effect control INT signal occurs, the effect control CPU 120 automatically sets the interrupt prohibition, but if a CPU that does not automatically enter the interrupt disable state is used, It is desirable to issue a prohibition instruction (DI instruction). The effect control CPU 120 executes, for example, a predetermined command reception interrupt process in response to an interrupt when the effect control INT signal is turned on. In this command reception interrupt process, a control signal that becomes an effect control command from a predetermined input port that receives a control signal transmitted from the main board 11 via the relay board 15 among the input ports included in the I / O 125. Capture. The effect control command captured at this time is stored, for example, in an effect control command reception buffer provided in the effect control buffer setting unit 194. Thereafter, the effect control CPU 120 ends the command reception interrupt processing after setting the interrupt permission.

  If the timer interrupt flag is on in step S72 (step S72; Yes), the timer interrupt flag is cleared and turned off (step S73), and command analysis processing is executed (step S74). In the command analysis process executed in step S74, for example, after reading various effect control commands transmitted from the game control microcomputer 100 of the main board 11 and stored in the effect control command reception buffer, the reading is performed. Settings and control corresponding to the issued effect control command are performed.

  After executing the command analysis process in step S74, an effect control process is executed (step S75). In the effect control process in step S75, for example, an effect image display operation on the screen of the image display device 5, an audio output operation from the speakers 8L and 8R, a lighting operation in the decorative light emitter such as the game effect lamp 9 and the decoration LED, Regarding the control content of the rendering operation using various rendering devices such as the driving operation of the rendering movable members 32A to 32C, determination, determination, setting, and the like are performed according to the rendering control command transmitted from the main board 11 and the like.

  Following the effect control process in step S75, an effect random number update process is executed (step S76), and random numbers counted by the random counter of the effect control counter setting unit 193 are used as various random values used for effect control. The numerical data shown is updated by software. Thereafter, the process returns to step S72.

  FIG. 21 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing executed in step S75 of FIG. 20 as the effect control process. In the effect control process shown in FIG. 21, the effect control CPU 120 first executes a prefetch effect determination process for determining the presence or absence of a prefetch effect and an effect mode (step S161). 22 and 23 are flowcharts showing an example of the prefetch effect determination process executed in step S161 of FIG. In the prefetch effect determination process shown in FIGS. 22 and 23, the effect control CPU 120 first checks the stored contents in the start winning reception command buffer set in the effect control buffer setting unit 194 (step S701). Then, it is determined whether or not there is a new received command that is at least one of the commands at the time of starting winning (step S702). For example, a reception command can be obtained by checking whether at least one of a start opening prize designation command, a symbol designation command, a variable category command, or a reserved memory number notification command is newly stored in the reception command buffer at the time of a winning prize. The presence or absence of can be determined. If no command has been newly received (step S702; No), the prefetch effect determination process is terminated as it is.

  If it is determined in step S702 that there is a reception command (step S702; Yes), it is determined whether or not a prefetch effect is already being executed (step S703). For example, in the process of step S703, when the pre-reading effect execution flag (any of the first pre-reading effect execution flag to the third pre-reading effect execution flag) provided in the effect control flag setting unit 191 is on, What is necessary is just to determine with the prefetch effect being performed. The pre-reading effect execution flag is set to the on state based on the execution of the corresponding pre-reading effects (first pre-reading effect to third pre-reading effect).

  In this embodiment, when the pre-reading effect is already being executed, the pre-reading effect is executed in the already-determined effect mode without further performing the process for executing the pre-reading effect. On the other hand, when the pre-reading effect is executed based on the winning determination result that the variable display mode is determined as “non-reach”, the winning determination result that the variable display result is determined as “big hit” When a winning determination result indicating that the variation pattern with super reach is determined is obtained, the pre-reading effect being executed may be switched to the super reach or jackpot notice effect. Note that a prefetch effect may be further executed regardless of the effect mode of the prefetch effect that has already been executed.

  If the pre-reading effect is not being executed in step S703, it is determined whether or not the current gaming state is during the time-saving control with the time-saving control (high base state) (step S705).

  When the time control is not being performed in step S705 (step S705; No), the previous variation category command stored in the start command reception command buffer is checked (step S708), and a pre-reading effect can be executed. It is determined whether or not the category is a variable category (step S709). For example, in the process of step S708, the variation category designated by the variation category command received up to one before the latest variation category command and stored in the start winning reception command buffer is read. In the process of step S709, the pre-reading effect can be executed when the variable category corresponding to the variable display mode of “non-reach (no pseudo-continuity)” is designated by the reading result of the variable category in step S708. What is necessary is just to determine with it being a fluctuation category. In this way, in each variable display until the variable display to be notified is started, the pre-reading effect can be executed when the variable display mode is “non-reach (no pseudo-continuous)”. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the reach effect from being executed in the middle of the prefetch effect and the continuity of the prefetch effect from being impaired. Note that it may be determined that the prefetch effect can be executed regardless of the variation category specified by the variation category command.

  If it is determined in step S709 that the category is a variable category in which the prefetching effect can be executed (step S709; Yes), whether or not the first prefetching effect is executed and the first case in which the first prefetching effect is executed. A prefetch effect pattern corresponding to the effect mode of the prefetch effect is determined (step S710). As an example, in the process of step S710, a first prefetch effect determination table prepared in advance is selected and set as a use table for determining the presence or absence of the first prefetch effect and the prefetch effect pattern. In the first look-ahead effect determination table, a comparison is made with a random value for determining the first look-ahead effect type according to the designation content of the variable category command transmitted based on the occurrence of the start winning corresponding to the variable display to be notified. Numerical values (determined values) to be assigned to the determination result of “no execution” corresponding to the case where the first prefetching effect is not executed or a plurality of prefetching effect patterns when the first prefetching effect is executed. That's fine. After that, the effect control CPU 120 creates the first look-ahead effect determination table based on the numerical data indicating the random number value for determining the first look-ahead effect extracted from the random number circuit 124 or the random counter of the effect control counter setting unit 193, for example. By referencing, the presence / absence of the first pre-reading effect and the pre-reading effect pattern may be determined.

  In the process of step S710, the presence / absence of the first prefetch effect and the prefetch effect pattern may be determined at a determination ratio as shown in FIG. 25A, for example. In the setting example of the determination ratio shown in FIG. 25A, the presence / absence of the first prefetch effect and the determination ratio of the prefetch effect pattern are varied according to the variation category.

  In this embodiment, as the prefetching effect pattern of the first prefetching effect, SEP1-1 (corresponding to the first stage), SEP1-2 (corresponding to the second stage), SEP1-3 (corresponding to the third stage) 3 Types are provided. In this embodiment, the first pre-reading effect is a pre-reading effect that changes the display mode of the reserved storage display corresponding to the variable display that is the target of the pre-reading determination to a special mode different from the normal. . In the prefetch effect patterns SEP1-1, SEP1-2, and SEP1-3, prefetch effects that are changed to different special modes are executed. For example, when the pre-reading effect pattern SEP1-1 is determined, a first pre-reading effect in which the display mode of the reserved storage display corresponding to the variable display to be notified is set to, for example, silver display is executed, and the prefetching effect pattern SEP1- If it is determined to be 2, the first pre-reading effect is executed in which the display mode of the hold storage display corresponding to the variable display to be notified is, for example, gold display, and when the pre-reading effect pattern SEP1-3 is determined. The first pre-reading effect is executed in which the display mode of the reserved storage display corresponding to the variable display to be notified is, for example, a star display. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 25, the first prefetch effect is executed over a maximum of four fluctuations before execution of variable display to be a prefetch determination target, regardless of which of the first to third stages. .

  As shown in FIG. 25, when the variation category is “normal reach (losing)” and “super reach (losing)”, the first look-ahead effect is executed as compared with the case of “non-reach (losing)”. If the rate of change (ratio determined other than “no execution”) is high and the fluctuation category is “big hit”, “normal reach (losing)”, “super reach (losing)” and “non-reach” The ratio of the pre-reading effect being executed is higher than in the case of (losing) ”. Further, when the variation category is “big hit”, it is possible to determine all the prefetch effect patterns, and the effect patterns having higher levels are selected at a larger ratio. On the other hand, when the variable display result is “losing”, the variation pattern type “non-reach” (variation pattern type CA1-1 or CA1-2) selected at a high rate as shown in FIG. Only the prefetch effect pattern SEP1-1 is determined at a predetermined rate. On the other hand, for the variation pattern type “normal reach (loss)” (corresponding to the variation pattern type CA2-1) selected at a lower rate than “non-reach”, the prefetch effect patterns SEP1-1 and SEP1-2 are predetermined. Determined by percentage. On the other hand, with respect to the variation pattern type “super reach (loss)” (corresponding to the variation pattern type CA2-2) selected at a lower rate than “non-reach” and “normal reach (loss)”, the prefetch effect pattern SEP1- 2 and SEP1-3 are determined at a predetermined ratio. With such a setting, there is a high possibility that the pre-reading effect pattern of the first pre-reading effect will be “big hit” in the order of SEP1-3> SEP1-2> SEP1-1 (big hit reliability), The player's reliability also increases.

  Following the determination in step S710 shown in FIG. 22, the determined prefetch effect pattern is stored in the prefetch effect buffer provided in the effect control buffer setting unit 194 (step S711). In step S711, a setting corresponding to the fact that the first prefetching effect is being executed, for example, setting the first prefetching effect executing flag to the on state is performed. Note that the prefetch effect pattern may be stored in association with the buffer number of the start winning reception command buffer.

  Subsequent to the process of step S711, it is determined whether or not the prefetch effect pattern of the first prefetch effect determined in step S710 is the prefetch effect pattern SEP1-1 having the lowest jackpot reliability (step S712 in FIG. 23). .

  After the process of step S712, whether to execute the second prefetching effect and a prefetching effect pattern corresponding to the effect mode of the second prefetching effect when executing the second prefetching effect are determined (step S713, S714). As an example, in the processes of steps S713 and S714, a second prefetch effect determination table prepared in advance is selected and set as a use table for determining the presence / absence of the second prefetch effect and the prefetch effect pattern. The second look-ahead effect determination table compares the random number value for determining the second look-ahead effect type according to the designation content of the variable category command transmitted based on the occurrence of the start winning corresponding to the variable display to be notified. Numerical values (decision values) to be assigned to the determination result of “no execution” corresponding to the case where the second pre-reading effect is not executed or a plurality of pre-reading effect patterns when the second pre-reading effect is executed. That's fine. After that, the effect control CPU 120 creates the second look-ahead effect determination table based on the numerical data indicating the random value for determining the second look-ahead effect extracted from the random number circuit 124 or the random counter of the effect control counter setting unit 193, for example. By referencing, the presence or absence of the second prefetch effect and the prefetch effect pattern may be determined.

  When it is determined in step S712 that the prefetching effect pattern of the first prefetching effect is other than the prefetching effect pattern SEP1-1 (step S712; No), for example, the second prefetching is performed at a determination ratio as illustrated in FIG. The presence / absence of the effect and the prefetch effect pattern are determined (step S713). In the setting example of the determination ratio shown in FIG. 26A, the presence / absence of the second prefetch effect and the determination ratio of the prefetch effect pattern are varied according to the variation category.

  In this embodiment, three types of SEP2-1, SEP2-2, and SEP2-3 are provided as prefetch effect patterns of the second prefetch effect. In this embodiment, the second pre-reading effects are effect-moving members 32A to 32D that are displayed multiple times (up to three variations) until the variable display that is the target of the pre-reading determination is executed. This is a prefetching effect in which a predetermined number of 32C fluctuates. Specifically, in the pre-reading effect pattern SEP2-1 (corresponding to the first stage), one of the effecting movable members 32A to 32C is included in the effecting movable members 32A to 32C in SEP2-2 (corresponding to the second stage). Two of them are SEP2-3 (corresponding to the third stage), and all three of the effect movable members 32A to 32C execute pre-read effects that vary. In each pre-reading effect pattern of SEP2-1 to SEP2-3, the movable member drive motor 33A is executed at the execution timing so that the predetermined effect operation is executed at the predetermined second effect execution timing as shown in FIG. The drive control signal may be output to ˜33C.

  As shown in FIG. 26 (A), when the variation category is “normal reach (losing)” and “super reach (losing)”, the second look-ahead effect is produced as compared with the case of “non-reach (losing)”. When the rate at which is executed is high (the rate determined other than “no execution”) and the fluctuation category is “big hit”, “normal reach (losing)”, “super reach (losing)” and Compared to the case of “non-reach (losing)”, the pre-reading effect is executed at a higher rate. Further, when the variation category is “big hit”, it is possible to determine all the prefetch effect patterns, and the effect patterns having higher levels are selected at a larger ratio. On the other hand, when the variable display result is “losing”, the variation pattern type “non-reach” (variation pattern type CA1-1 or CA1-2) selected at a high rate as shown in FIG. Only the prefetch effect pattern SEP2-1 is determined at a predetermined rate. On the other hand, with respect to the variation pattern type “normal reach (loss)” (corresponding to the variation pattern type CA2-1) selected at a lower rate than “non-reach”, the prefetch effect patterns SEP2-1 and SEP2-2 are predetermined. Determined by percentage. On the other hand, with respect to the variation pattern type “super reach (loss)” (corresponding to the variation pattern type CA2-2) selected at a lower rate than “non-reach” and “normal reach (loss)”, the prefetch effect pattern SEP2- 2 and SEP2-3 are determined at a predetermined ratio. With such a setting, there is a high possibility that the pre-reading effect pattern of the second pre-reading effect will be “big hit” in the order of SEP2-3> SEP2-2> SEP2-1 (big hit reliability), The player's reliability also increases.

  If it is determined in step S712 that the prefetching effect pattern of the first prefetching effect is the prefetching effect pattern SEP1-1 (step S712; Yes), for example, the second prefetching effect is determined at the rate shown in FIG. The presence / absence of the pre-reading effect pattern is determined (step S714). In the setting example of the determination ratio shown in FIG. 26B, the presence / absence of the second prefetch effect and the determination ratio of the prefetch effect pattern are varied depending on the variation category.

  Also in the determination ratio shown in FIG. 26B, when the second pre-reading effect of the pre-reading effect pattern SEP2-3 is executed with the same setting as the determination ratio shown in FIG. The ratio of “big hit” is set to be higher than when the second prefetch effect of the prefetch effect pattern SEP2-2 is executed. However, the prefetch effect pattern SEP2-1 of the second prefetch effect having the lowest jackpot reliability is not determined. That is, in this embodiment, when the prefetching effect pattern of the first prefetching effect is the prefetching effect pattern SEP1-1 having the lowest jackpot reliability (step S712; Yes), the second hitting reliability is the lowest. The prefetch effect pattern SEP2-1 of the prefetch effect is not determined.

  Following the determination in step S713 or S714, the determined prefetch effect pattern is stored in the prefetch effect buffer provided in the effect control buffer setting unit 194 (step S715). In Step S715, for example, a setting corresponding to the fact that the second pre-reading effect is being executed, such as setting the second pre-reading effect executing flag to the on state, is performed. Note that the prefetch effect pattern may be stored in association with the buffer number of the start winning reception command buffer.

  Following the process of step S715, the prefetch effect pattern of the first prefetch effect is determined to be the prefetch effect pattern SEP1-1 having the lowest jackpot reliability in step S710, or the prefetch effect pattern of the second prefetch effect is determined in step S713. It is determined whether the prefetch effect pattern SEP2-1 having the lowest jackpot reliability has been determined (step S716 in FIG. 23).

  After the process of step S716, whether or not to execute the third prefetch effect and a prefetch effect pattern corresponding to the effect mode of the third prefetch effect when the third prefetch effect is executed are determined (step S717, S718). As an example, in the processes of steps S717 and S718, a third prefetch effect determination table prepared in advance is selected and set as a use table for determining the presence / absence of the third prefetch effect and the prefetch effect pattern. In the third look-ahead effect determination table, a comparison is made with the random number value for determining the third look-ahead effect type according to the designation content of the variable category command transmitted based on the occurrence of the start winning corresponding to the variable display to be notified. Numerical values (decision values) to be assigned to a determination result of “no execution” corresponding to the case where the third prefetch effect is not executed, a plurality of prefetch effect patterns when the third prefetch effect is executed, etc. That's fine. Thereafter, the effect control CPU 120 creates a third look-ahead effect determination table based on numerical data indicating a random number value for determining the third look-ahead effect extracted from the random number circuit 124 or the random counter of the effect control counter setting unit 193, for example. By referencing, the presence / absence of the third prefetch effect and the prefetch effect pattern may be determined.

  In step S716, the prefetch effect pattern SEP1-1 is not determined as the prefetch effect pattern of the first prefetch effect, and the prefetch effect pattern SEP2-1 is determined as the prefetch effect pattern of the second prefetch effect. If it is determined that it has not been performed (step S716; No), for example, the presence / absence of the third prefetch effect and the prefetch effect pattern are determined at a determination ratio as shown in FIG. 27A (step S717). In the setting example of the determination ratio shown in FIG. 27A, the presence / absence of the third prefetch effect and the determination ratio of the prefetch effect pattern are varied depending on the variation category.

  In this embodiment, three types of SEP3-1, SEP3-2, and SEP3-3 are provided as prefetching effect patterns of the third prefetching effect. In this embodiment, the third look-ahead effect includes variable display (before a maximum of 2 fluctuations) for a plurality of times until execution of variable display that is a target of pre-reading determination and variable that is a target of pre-reading. This is a pre-reading effect in which a background image different from the normal state is displayed on the image display device 5 over a predetermined timing of the display mode (until the normal reach effect ends or until the start of the super reach effect). Specifically, SEP3-1 (corresponding to the first stage) is a rainy image, SEP3-2 (corresponding to the second stage) is a storm image, and SEP3-3 (corresponding to the third stage) is an image of flowering snow. Thus, different images that can be discriminated by the player are displayed for each stage.

  As shown in FIG. 27A, when the variation category is “normal reach (losing)” and “super reach (losing)”, the third look-ahead effect is more effective than the case of “non-reach (losing)”. When the rate at which is executed is high (the rate determined other than “no execution”) and the fluctuation category is “big hit”, “normal reach (losing)”, “super reach (losing)” and Compared to the case of “non-reach (losing)”, the pre-reading effect is executed at a higher rate. Further, when the variation category is “big hit”, it is possible to determine all the prefetch effect patterns, and the effect patterns having higher levels are selected at a larger ratio. On the other hand, when the variable display result is “losing”, the variation pattern type “non-reach” (variation pattern type CA1-1 or CA1-2) selected at a high rate as shown in FIG. Only the prefetch effect pattern SEP3-1 is determined at a predetermined rate. On the other hand, for the variation pattern type “normal reach (losing)” (corresponding to the variation pattern type CA2-1) selected at a lower rate than “non-reach”, the prefetch effect patterns SEP3-1 to SEP3-3 are predetermined. Determined by percentage. On the other hand, with respect to the variation pattern type “super reach (loss)” (corresponding to the variation pattern type CA2-2) selected at a lower rate than “non-reach” and “normal reach (loss)”, the look-ahead effect pattern SEP3- 2 and SEP3-3 are determined at a predetermined ratio. With such a setting, there is a high possibility that the pre-reading effect pattern of the third pre-reading effect will be a “big hit” (big hit reliability) in the order of SEP3-3> SEP3-2> SEP3-1, The player's reliability also increases.

  In step S716, the prefetch effect pattern SEP1-1 is determined as the prefetch effect pattern of the first prefetch effect as the prefetch effect pattern of the first prefetch effect, or the prefetch effect pattern SEP2-1 is determined as the prefetch effect pattern of the second prefetch effect. If it is determined that it has been performed (step S716; Yes), for example, the presence / absence of the third prefetch effect and the prefetch effect pattern are determined at a determination ratio as shown in FIG. 27B (step S718). In the setting example of the determination ratio shown in FIG. 27B, the presence / absence of the third prefetch effect and the determination ratio of the prefetch effect pattern are varied depending on the variation category.

  Also in the determination ratio shown in FIG. 27B, when the third prefetch effect of the prefetch effect pattern SEP3-3 is executed with the same setting as the determination ratio shown in FIG. The ratio of “big hit” is set to be higher than when the third prefetch effect of the prefetch effect pattern SEP3-2 is executed. However, the prefetch effect pattern SEP3-1 of the third prefetch effect having the lowest jackpot reliability is not determined. That is, in this embodiment, when the prefetch effect pattern of the first or second prefetch effect is the prefetch effect pattern (pattern corresponding to the first stage) with the lowest jackpot reliability (step S716; Yes). The prefetch effect pattern SEP2-1 of the third prefetch effect having the lowest jackpot reliability is not determined.

  Following the determination in step S717 or S718, the determined prefetch effect pattern is stored in the prefetch effect buffer provided in the effect control buffer setting unit 194 (step S719). In step S719, a setting corresponding to the fact that the third prefetch effect is being executed, for example, setting the third prefetch effect execution flag to the on state is performed. Note that the prefetch effect pattern may be stored in association with the buffer number of the start winning reception command buffer. With such a setting, it is possible to restrict that the pre-reading effect with low jackpot reliability is executed repeatedly, so that it is possible to prevent the player's expectation from being impaired by the notice effect, and the interest of the game is improved.

  Note that since the prefetch effects other than the combination including a plurality of the prefetch effect patterns SEP1-1, the prefetch effect patterns SEP2-1, and the prefetch effect patterns SEP3-1 can be executed, the player does not impair the player's expectation. It is possible to suitably execute a notice effect that gives a sense of expectation.

  In this embodiment, whether or not to execute the first prefetch effect to the third prefetch effect based on the designation content of the variable category command transmitted based on the occurrence of one start winning prize, and the prefetch effect when executing A pattern is determined. Thereby, since it can restrict | limit that the pre-reading production | presentation with low jackpot reliability is repeatedly performed about the same notice object, it can prevent impairing a player's expectation by a notice effect, and the interest of a game improves.

  When it is determined in step S703 in FIG. 25 that the pre-reading effect is being executed (step S703; Yes), or when it is determined in step S705 that the time reduction control is being performed (step S705; Yes), step S709. When it is determined that the variation category is not capable of executing the pre-reading effect (step S709; No), or when the processing of step S719 is completed, the latest start opening stored in the start winning reception command buffer It is determined whether or not the winning designation command is a first start opening winning designation command (step S722).

  When the prefetch effect determining process (FIGS. 22 and 23) ends in step S161 of FIG. 21, the effect control CPU 120 starts the prefetch effect execution process in order to execute the determined prefetch effect (step S162). FIG. 24 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the prefetch effect execution process executed in step S162. In the prefetch effect execution process shown in FIG. 24, the effect control CPU 120 first determines whether or not the current time is the first prefetch effect execution period in which the first prefetch effect is to be executed. Specifically, the stored contents of the prefetch effect buffer are confirmed, and the first prefetch effect execution flag is ON, and the variable display currently being executed is converted from the variable display to be prefetched and converted to FIG. If it is included in the execution period shown, it is determined that it is the first prefetch effect execution period. As a result of the determination, if it is the first prefetch effect execution period (step S301; Yes), the hold display to be prefetched in the start winning memory display area 5H is the prefetch effect pattern determined in step S711 of FIG. Control is performed according to the stage (step S302).

  Whether it is determined in step S301 that it is not the first prefetch effect execution period (step S301; No), or after executing step S302, the effect control CPU 120 currently executes the second prefetch effect execution period. It is determined whether or not (step S303). Specifically, the stored contents of the prefetch effect buffer are confirmed, the second prefetch effect execution flag is ON, and the variable display currently being executed is converted from the variable display to be prefetched and converted to FIG. When the progress of variable display is included in the second prefetch effect execution timing as shown in FIG. 10A, it is determined that it is the second prefetch effect execution period. The second prefetch effect execution timing may be defined in advance in a predetermined period of the ROM 121 corresponding to the second prefetch effect pattern. As a result of the determination, if it is the second prefetch effect execution period (step S303; Yes), among the prefetch effect patterns stored in the predetermined area of the ROM 121, the second prefetch determined in step S713 or S714 of FIG. In accordance with the stage of the production pattern, the production movable members 32 </ b> A to 32 </ b> C are controlled to operate (control of the accessory fluctuation) (step S <b> 304). As an example, in the process of step S304, effect control execution data corresponding to the effect pattern of the second prefetch effect is read from the ROM 121 based on the selection result of the second prefetch effect. Then, in order to perform a predetermined effect operation by the effect movable members 32A to 32C, a drive command may be generated based on the read effect control execution data and transmitted to the effect movable members 33A to 33C and the like.

  Whether it is determined in step S303 that it is not the second prefetch effect execution period (step S303; No), or after executing step S304, the effect control CPU 120 currently executes the third prefetch effect execution period. It is determined whether or not (step S305). Specifically, the stored contents of the prefetch effect buffer are confirmed, and the third prefetch effect execution flag is ON, and the variable display currently being executed is converted from the variable display to be prefetched and the execution period ( If it is included in the period before two fluctuations as shown in FIG. 27 until the end of the normal reach effect or the start of the execution of the super reach effect, it is determined that it is the third prefetch effect execution period. As a result of the determination, if it is the third prefetch effect execution period (step S305; Yes), the background display is controlled according to the stage of the third prefetch effect as the control process for executing the third prefetch effect. The process which performs is performed (step S306). In step S306, for example, a predetermined display control command is transmitted to the VDP or the like of the display control unit 123. Based on the display control command, the display control unit 123 reads “a background image corresponding to the prefetch effect pattern stored in step S719 of FIG. 23 from CGROM or the like, and displays the background image on the image display device 5. In step S305. When it is determined that it is not the third prefetch effect execution period, or when the process of step S306 is finished, the effect control CPU 120 ends the prefetch effect execution process of FIG.

  When the process of step S162 is completed in the effect control process of FIG. 19, the effect control CPU 120 performs the following steps S170 to S176 according to the value of the effect process flag provided in the effect control flag setting unit 191. Select one of the processes to execute.

  The variable display start waiting process in step S170 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “0”. This variable display start waiting process starts variable display of decorative symbols on the screen of the image display device 5 based on whether the first variation start command or the second variation start command from the main board 11 is received. The process etc. which determine whether or not are included. When the first variation start command or the second variation start command is received, the value of the effect process flag is updated to “1”.

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

  The variable display effect process in step S172 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “2”. In this variable display effect process, the effect control CPU 120 reads various control data from the effect control pattern corresponding to the timer value in the effect control process timer provided in the effect control timer setting unit 192, and displays the decorative design. Processing for performing various effects during variable display is included. In addition, in the variable display effect process, in response to the reception of the symbol confirmation designation command transmitted from the main board 11, the finalized symbol as the final stop symbol that is the variable symbol display result is completely stopped. Processing to display (derived display) is included. It should be noted that, in response to the end code being read from the special-figure varying effect control pattern, the finalized design may be displayed in a complete stop (derived display). In this case, when the variable display time corresponding to the variation pattern designated by the variation pattern designation command has elapsed, it is autonomous on the side of the production control board 12 without using the production control command from the main board 11. The fixed display pattern can be derived and displayed on the screen to determine the variable display result. After performing such effect control, the value of the effect process flag is updated to “3”.

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

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

  The big hit effect process in step S175 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “5”. In this jackpot effect processing, the effect control CPU 120 sets, for example, an effect control pattern corresponding to the effect content in the jackpot gaming state, and displays an effect image based on the set content on the screen of the image display device 5. In addition, a sound or sound effect is output from the speakers 8L and 8R by outputting a command (sound effect signal) to the sound control board 13, and a game effect lamp 9 or a decoration is output by outputting a command (electric signal) to the lamp control board 14. Various effect control in the big hit gaming state such as lighting / extinguishing / flashing the LED for the game is executed. Also, in the big hit effect processing, the value of the production control process flag is updated to “6” in response to, for example, receiving a big hit end designation command transmitted from the main board 11.

  The big hit end effect process in step S176 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “6”. In the jackpot end effect process, the effect control CPU 120 sets an effect control pattern corresponding to the end of the jackpot game state, for example, and displays an effect image based on the set content on the screen of the image display device 5. In addition, a sound or sound effect is output from the speakers 8L and 8R by outputting a command (sound effect signal) to the sound control board 13, and a game effect lamp 9 or a decoration is output by outputting a command (electric signal) to the lamp control board 14. Various effect control is executed at the end of the big hit gaming state, such as turning on / off / flashing the LED for the game. Thereafter, the effect process flag is cleared and its value is initialized to “0”.

  FIG. 28 is a flowchart showing an example of the variable display start setting process executed in step S171 of FIG. In the variable display start setting process shown in FIG. 28, the effect control CPU 120 first determines a final stop symbol or the like to be a finalized symbol as a variable symbol display result (step S431). At this time, the CPU 120 for effect control is based on the change start time determination contents such as the change pattern indicated by the change pattern designation command transmitted from the main board 11 and the variable display result indicated by the variable display result notification command. The final stop symbol is determined. In this embodiment, the contents of determination at the start of variation according to the combination of the variation pattern and the variable display result are “non-reach (losing)”, “reach (losing)”, “non-probability variation (big hit)”, “probability variation ( "Big hit)".

  In step S431, the effect control CPU 101 determines that the change determination at the start of variation according to the combination of the variation pattern and the variable display result is “non-probable change (big hit)” or “probable change (big hit)”. The combination of the decorative symbols with the three symbols is determined. However, when the change start determination content is “non-probable change (big hit)”, a combination of decorative symbols with even symbols is determined as a stop symbol. On the other hand, in the case of “probability change (big hit)”, a combination of decorative symbols having an odd number of symbols is determined as a stop symbol.

  Specifically, when “non-probability change (big hit)” or “probability change (big hit)” is determined, a rendering random number for determining a predetermined stop pattern is extracted, and the stop pattern stored in the ROM 121 is extracted. Compared with the determination value defined in the determination table, a left middle right stop symbol (a combination of decorative symbols in which the left middle right symbol is aligned) is determined. When it is determined to be “non-probable change (big hit)”, if the determined symbol is an odd symbol, for example, the symbol divided by one is made a stop symbol. Also, when it is determined to be “probable change (big hit)”, if the determined symbol is an even symbol, for example, one symbol that is spelled out is set as a stop symbol.

  In the case of loss, a combination of decorative symbols other than the above is determined (excluding the chances of the following pseudo-ream). However, when a reach effect is involved, a combination of decorative symbols in which two left and right symbols are aligned is determined.

  Specifically, the effect control CPU 120 is defined in the stop symbol determination table, for example, when it is not determined to be an off symbol and is not determined to reach. The left middle right stop symbol is determined by comparison with the determined value. If the determined left and right symbols match, the right symbol is shifted by one symbol. If it is determined to reach and the determined left middle right symbol is a chance, the left symbol is shifted by one symbol, for example.

  Further, in the processing of step S431, it is determined whether or not the “pseudo-continuous” variable display effect is executed according to the variation pattern indicated by the variation pattern designation command transmitted from the main board 11. At this time, if it is determined that the “pseudo-continuous” variable display effect is to be executed, the decorative design that is temporarily stopped and displayed in the “pseudo-continuous” variable display effect and constitutes the pseudo-continuous chance is determined. Also, it may be determined whether or not to execute the “slip” variable display effect at a predetermined ratio according to the variation pattern or the like. When it is determined that the “slip” variable display effect is to be executed, the decorative design that is temporarily stopped in the “slip” variable display effect may be determined.

  Following such determination of the final stop symbol and the like in step S431, a notice effect selection process is executed (step S432). Then, the effect control pattern is determined as one of a plurality of patterns prepared in advance (step S433). At this time, the effect control CPU 120 selects one of a plurality of special-figure variation effect control patterns prepared in correspondence with, for example, the variation pattern indicated by the variation pattern designation command, and sets it as a usage pattern. Further, the effect control CPU 120 sets one of a plurality of prepared notice effect control patterns as a use pattern based on the notice pattern selected by the notice effect selection process in step S432.

  After executing the processing of step S433, for example, the initial value of the effect control process timer provided in the effect control timer setting unit 192 is set corresponding to the change pattern specified by the change pattern specifying command (step S434). . Then, the setting for starting the variation of the decorative design on the screen of the image display device 5 is performed (step S435). At this time, for example, by transmitting a display control command designated by the display control data included in the special-figure variation effect control pattern determined as the usage pattern in step S433 to the VDP or the like of the display control unit 123, etc. The variation of the decorative symbols may be started in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R provided on the screen of the image display device 5. Further, in response to the start of variable display of decorative symbols, a setting for updating the hold display in the start winning memory display area 5H is performed (step S436). For example, the display part corresponding to the hold number “1” in the start winning memory display area 5H may be deleted and the entire display part may be moved to the left one by one. Thereafter, the value of the effect process flag is updated to “2”, which is a value corresponding to the effect process during variable display (step S437), and the variable display start setting process ends.

  FIG. 29 is a flowchart showing an example of the notice effect selection process executed in step S432 of FIG. In the notice effect selection process shown in FIG. 29, the effect control CPU 120 first specifies a prefetch effect that serves as a determination criterion for determining one of a plurality of selection criteria for selecting a notice effect (step S501). Specifically, by referring to the prefetch effect buffer, the prefetch effect effect pattern executed as the variable display target to be started is specified. In this embodiment, among the executed prefetch effects, the one corresponding to the effect pattern having the highest ratio of big hit (high hit reliability) is determined as the prefetch effect as the determination criterion. For example, when the pre-reading effects are executed at the ratios shown in FIGS. 25 to 27, the ratio of the big hit (big hit reliability) is in the order shown in FIG. In step S501, among the executed prefetching effects, the prefetching effect corresponding to the prefetching effect pattern having the highest jackpot reliability shown in FIG. The first to third prefetch effects are executed in any of the effect patterns corresponding to the first to third stages, but the jackpot reliability corresponding to the first to third stages is different in different prefetch effects. There is. For example, in the third look-ahead effect, SEP3-3 corresponding to the third stage has the highest jackpot reliability. On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 30A, the big hit reliability of SEP3-3 corresponding to the third stage of the third prefetching effect is the first prefetching effect, the second prefetching effect, and the second stage (SEP1-2). And when compared with SEP2-2), the big hit reliability is SEP3-3 <SEP1-2 <SEP2-2. Thus, in each pre-reading effect, the higher the level, the higher the jackpot reliability. However, when compared with other pre-reading effects, the higher the level, the higher the jackpot reliability may not be. The same jackpot reliability may be set for each stage of a plurality of prefetch effects.

  When the pre-reading effect as the determination criterion is specified in step S501, the effect control CPU 120 next determines the selection criterion for the notice effect according to the pre-reading effect as the determination criterion (step S502). In this embodiment, the selection criterion for the notice effect is determined using the determination table shown in FIG. 30B according to the effect pattern of the pre-read effect that becomes the determination criterion. In step S502, when the jackpot reliability of the pre-reading effect as the determination criterion is higher than the specific ratio, the notice selection criterion having a higher lower limit of the jackpot reliability of the notice effect selected is selected so as not to be the case. It only has to be set to. In the example of FIG. 30, the big hit reliability of the prefetch effect pattern SEP1-1 (in the case of non-probability change, about 0.5% in the holding number 2 to 4) and the big hit reliability of the prefetch effect pattern SEP3-2 (in the case of non-probability change, The first specific ratio (corresponding to the medium standard notice effect standard) is set between the reserved number 2 and 4 (about 6%). The first specific ratio is, for example, 5%. In addition, the jackpot reliability of the prefetch effect pattern SEP2-2 (about 10% when the number of holds is 2 to 4 at the time of uncertain change) and the jackpot reliability of the lookahead effect pattern SEP1-3 (at the time of the number of holds 2 to 4 when the probability is not changed) The second specific ratio (corresponding to the high standard of the notice effect standard) is set. In this case, the second specific ratio is, for example, 20%. In step S502, the low criterion is greater when the jackpot reliability of the pre-reading effect as the determination criterion is equal to or less than the first specific rate, and the medium criterion is greater than the first specific rate and less than or equal to the second specific rate. When the ratio is larger than the second specific ratio, the high criterion is determined as the notice effect selection criterion. For the sake of simplicity, only the case where the number of holds is 2 to 4 has been described at the time of non-probability change, but the present invention is not limited to this. The predetermined criterion may be selected when the jackpot reliability in the gaming state of the executed prefetching effect exceeds a specific ratio. At this time, different specific ratios may be set depending on the gaming state such as the non-probability change time, the probability change time, and the number of holds, or the same specific ratio may be used.

  Next, the effect control CPU 120 determines whether or not the pseudo-continuous effect is executed for the variable display to be started (step S503). Specifically, when the variation pattern indicated by the variation pattern designation command is not any of PA1-2, PB2-2 to PB2-4, PB3-2 to PB3-4, and PB4-2 to PB4-4. Then, it is determined that the pseudo continuous effect is not executed (step S503; No). In this case, next, the effect control CPU 120 selects whether or not to execute the pre-reach notice effect among the notice effects, and when to execute, which effect mode is selected from a plurality (step S504). As an aspect of the pre-reach announcement effect, as shown in FIG. 31, YEP1-1 corresponding to the reliability category “cas” with extremely low jackpot reliability (corresponding to the ratio of the specific display result), the jackpot reliability is low YEP1-2 corresponding to the reliability category “low reliability”, YEP1-3 corresponding to the reliability category “medium reliability” with medium hit reliability, and the reliability category “high reliability” with high hit reliability YEP1-4 corresponding to the above are set, and different selection ratios are assigned according to the variation category of the variation (variable display to be started). For this purpose, for example, among the plurality of determination tables stored in the ROM 121, the determination table corresponding to the notice effect selection criterion determined in step S502 is used, and the determination ratios shown in FIGS. The presence / absence of execution of the notice effect and the effect mode may be selected at the corresponding determination ratio.

  If the notice effect selection criterion is determined at the time of the low criterion in step S502, as shown in FIG. 31A, any effect mode having a reliability category of “cas” to “high reliability” is selected. Can be selected. On the other hand, when it is determined at the middle reference time, as shown in FIG. 31 (B), the rendering mode corresponding to the “cass” reliability category is not selected, so “low reliability” to “high reliability”. The notice effect is executed in any one of the effect modes. When determined at the time of high reference, since the rendering mode corresponding to “cass” and “low reliability” is not selected, any of “medium reliability” to “high reliability” is selected. The notice effect is executed in the corresponding effect mode. In the present embodiment, the pre-reading effect and the effect of the pre-reach pre-announcement effect are determined at different rates depending on the variation category, and therefore, depending on the effect (pre-reading effect and pre-reach pre-announcement effect) executed before reaching. It is suggested whether or not the decorative pattern is in a reach state and the type of reach effect (normal reach effect or super reach effect, or which super reach effect is present when there are multiple super reach effects). In general, the ratio of “big hit” varies greatly depending on whether or not a reach state is reached and the type of reach effect. For this reason, it may be easy to increase the player's attention to the notice effect indicating whether or not the decorative symbol is in the reach state and the type of reach effect to be executed. In this embodiment, among the pre-reach pre-announcement effect and the pre-reach pre-announcement effect, in this case, the pre-reach pre-announcement pre-production effect is appropriately selected according to the execution content of the pre-reading effect. Can be determined. Therefore, the discouragement of the player can be prevented and the interest of the game can be enhanced. Further, as shown in FIG. 10, the execution period of the pre-reach announcement effect is immediately after the first and second prefetch effects, and is also in the execution period of the third prefetch effect. For this reason, during the execution of the advance notice effect before the reach is established, there is a tendency that the sense of expectation increased by the prefetch effect remains strongly. Therefore, if a big hit reliability that is excessively small with respect to the pre-reading effect is indicated by the notice effect before the reach establishment, the player's discouragement is greater than the notice effect after the reach establishment, but according to the present embodiment, This can be prevented.

  Corresponding to the big hit reliability (corresponding to the ratio of the specific display result) of the pre-reading effect as the determination criterion is larger than the first specific ratio (for example, 5%) and not more than the second specific ratio (for example, 20%). Then, the notice effect is executed in an effect mode of “low reliability” or more (for example, 2% or more in FIG. 31A). Furthermore, in response to the fact that the big hit reliability (corresponding to the ratio of the specific display result) of the pre-reading effect as the determination criterion is larger than the second specific ratio (for example, 20%), the notice effect is set to “medium reliability” or higher. It is executed in a production mode (for example, 10% or more in FIG. 31A). For this reason, the specific display result of the pre-reading effect (the pre-reading effect having the highest ratio of the specific display result in this embodiment) in which the ratio of the specific display result corresponding to the effect mode of the notice effect to be executed is a determination criterion. Is included in a predetermined range of decrease from the ratio. In the above example, for example, the first reduction width (for example, 1/10 in the above example) with respect to the first specific ratio, and the second reduction width (for example, 1/2 in the above example) with respect to the second specific ratio. Are set respectively. Therefore, with respect to the possibility of the specific display result indicated by the pre-reading effect, the notice effect indicates the possibility of a small specific display result exceeding a predetermined reduction range such as the first reduction range or the second reduction range. You can limit that. Therefore, since the expectation heightened by the pre-reading effect can be prevented from being lost by the notice effect, the interest of the game is improved.

  If it is determined in step S503 in FIG. 29 that the pseudo-continuous effect is executed (step S503; Yes), the effect control CPU 120 then performs a plurality of step-ups executed during the pseudo-continuous effect illustrated in FIG. Of the notice effects (revariable notice effects and one or more pseudo-announced notice effects), the step-up notice effects produced at a predetermined timing (in this embodiment, revariable notice effects) are displayed in a plurality of steps ( One of Step 1 to Step 4) is determined (Step 505). In this case, similarly to step S504, for example, out of a plurality of determination tables stored in the ROM 121, the determination table corresponding to the notice effect selection criterion determined in step S502 is used, and FIGS. What is necessary is just to select the presence or absence of execution of a notice effect, and the production | presentation aspect by the corresponding decision rate among decision rates.

  If the notice effect selection criterion is determined at the low criterion in step S502, as shown in FIG. 32 (A), the reliability category is “cas” (corresponding to step 1) to “high reliability” ( Any production mode (corresponding to step 4) can be selected. On the other hand, when it is determined at the middle reference time, as shown in FIG. 32 (B), the rendering mode corresponding to the “cass” reliability category is not selected, so “low reliability” to “high reliability”. The step-up notice effect is executed in any one of the effect modes. When determined at the time of high reference, since the rendering mode corresponding to “cass” and “low reliability” is not selected, any of “medium reliability” to “high reliability” is selected. A step-up notice effect is executed in a corresponding effect mode. For this reason, when the notice effect is executed a plurality of times during variable display corresponding to “pseudo-continuous”, the notice effect (here, the replay effect) executed at a predetermined timing with high attention (here, the timing before re-variation). It is possible to appropriately determine the effect mode of the pre-change notice effect according to the execution content of the prefetch effect. Therefore, since the disappointment of the player can be prevented, the interest of the game is improved.

  After determining the effect mode of the notice effect (pre-rechange notice effect) executed at a predetermined timing in step S505, the effect control CPU 120 is performing variable display corresponding to the “pseudo-continuous” as illustrated in FIG. The effect mode of the remaining effects (here, one or a plurality of pseudo-annual notice effects) is selected from among the plurality of step-up notices executed at step S505A. In step S505A, the production mode corresponding to steps 1 to 4 may be determined at an arbitrary selection rate, but here the production mode is determined at the same selection rate using the same determination table as in S505.

  In steps S505 and S505A, when a plurality of step-up notice effects to be executed during variable display including a pseudo-ream are determined, the effect control CPU 120 determines a combination of the determined notice effects effects in advance. It is determined whether or not a predetermined prohibition condition is met (step S505B). In this embodiment, when the production mode corresponding to the number of steps lower than the production mode of the step-up notice executed previously is selected as the prohibition condition, it is determined that the prohibition condition is met (step S505B; Yes). In this case, the pseudo-annual notice corresponding to the prohibition condition is corrected to an aspect not corresponding to the prohibition condition, that is, an effect aspect corresponding to a higher number of steps than the previous time (step S505C). According to such a configuration, after a step-up notice corresponding to a higher step count and a higher jackpot reliability is executed, a step-up notice corresponding to a lower step number is executed. Can prevent a person from being discouraged. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and when the number of steps falls by two or more than the number of steps executed last time, the combination is registered in the predetermined prohibition combination table stored in the ROM 121 and determined to satisfy the prohibition condition. It is possible to substitute for a predetermined configuration that can prevent the player from being discouraged, such as determining that a prohibited condition is met.

  When step S504 or S505C is completed or when it is determined No in step S505B, the effect control CPU 120 determines whether or not the variable display variation pattern is “non-reach” (step S508). Specifically, if the pattern is other than the fluctuation pattern PA1-1 designated by the fluctuation pattern designation command, it is determined that it is not “non-reach” (step S508; No), and the advance notice selection process is executed after the reach is established ( Step S509).

  In step S509, the effect mode of the notice effect after the reach is established may be determined at an arbitrary selection ratio, but here, the effect mode is determined at the same selection ratio using the same determination table as in S504.

  In step S509, the effect control CPU 120 determines in advance the combination of the determined effect aspects of the notice effect when the effect form of the notice effect after the reach is established or when it is determined that it is “non-reach” in step S508. It is determined whether or not the predetermined prohibited condition is satisfied (step S501). In this embodiment, when the jackpot reliability of the effect mode of the pre-reach announcement effect is lower than the effect mode of the pre-reach announcement effect as the prohibition condition, it is determined that the prohibition condition is met (step S510; Yes). In this case, the after-reaching notice effect corresponding to the prohibition condition is corrected to an aspect not corresponding to the prohibition condition, that is, a mode in which the big hit reliability is equal to or higher than the notice effect after reaching reach (step S511). According to such a configuration, the player is discouraged by executing the pre-reach announcement effect corresponding to the lower jackpot reliability after the pre-reach announcement effect having a higher jackpot reliability is executed. Can be prevented. Not limited to this, a predetermined prohibition combination stored in the ROM 121, which is determined to satisfy the prohibition condition when the jackpot reliability of the notice effect after reach establishment is smaller than the notice effect before reach establishment exceeds a predetermined threshold. It can be replaced with a predetermined configuration that can prevent the player from being discouraged, such as determining that the combination is registered in the table and that it is a forbidden condition.

  When it is determined in step S511 that the effect mode of the notice effect after the reach has been established or it is determined in step S510 that the prohibition condition is not met (step S510; No), the effect control CPU 120 performs the notice effect selection process. finish.

  In addition, it is not limited to what determines the presence or absence of a notice effect with a different determination ratio according to the variable display contents as shown in FIGS. Whether or not to execute the notice effect may be determined at a different determination ratio according to the determination content of the variable display result such as whether or not it has been performed.

  FIG. 33 is a flowchart showing an example of the variable display effect process executed in step S172 of FIG. In the effect processing during variable display shown in FIG. 33, the effect control CPU 120 first determines whether or not the variable display time corresponding to the variation pattern has elapsed based on, for example, the effect control process timer value (step S461). ). As an example, in the process of step S461, the effect control process timer value is updated (for example, 1 is subtracted), and the end code is read from the special-figure variation effect control pattern corresponding to the updated effect control process timer value. In some cases, it may be determined that the variable display time has elapsed.

  If the variable display time has not elapsed in step S461 (step S461; No), it is determined whether or not it is a notice execution period for executing one of a plurality of notice effects (step S463). The advance notice execution period may be determined in advance by, for example, a special figure fluctuation production control pattern determined as a use pattern corresponding to the fluctuation pattern. If it is the notice execution period in step S463 (step S463; Yes), the notice effect selected in the notice effect selection process in step S432 corresponding to any of the plurality of timings is selected according to the selection result in step S433. Production operation control is performed for execution based on the notice pattern determined in (step S464).

  As an example, in the process of step S464, effect control execution data (for example, display control data, sound control data, lamp control data, operation detection) read from the notice effect control pattern determined as the usage pattern based on the selection result of the notice effect. Depending on the control data, etc., various commands can be given to perform a predetermined effect operation including part or all of the effect image display, sound effect output, lamp lighting, effect model operation, etc. What is necessary is just to produce and transmit with respect to the display control part 123, the audio | voice control board | substrate 13, the lamp | ramp control board | substrate 14, etc. The correction of the notice effect corresponding to the prohibition conditions executed in steps S510 to S511 and steps S505B to 505C may be executed in step S464 instead of or in duplicate with the notice effect selection process. . For example, when a new notice effect execution period is started, the notice effect effect form newly started in step S464 corresponds to a prohibition condition with respect to the notice effect effect form executed so far. Is determined in the same manner as in steps S510 and S505C. If the prohibition condition is met, the notice effect pattern determined in the notice effect selection process is replaced with a notice effect pattern that does not correspond to the prohibition condition, for example, corresponding to an effect mode with higher jackpot reliability. It is sufficient to execute a notice effect.

  When it is not the notice execution period in step S463 (step S463; No), or after executing the process of step S464, for example, based on the setting in the special-figure variation effect control pattern corresponding to the variation pattern, etc. After performing the effect operation control (step S465), the variable display effect process is terminated.

  If the variable display time has elapsed in step S461 (step S461; Yes), it is determined whether or not a symbol confirmation designation command transmitted from the main board 11 has been received (step S466). At this time, if the symbol confirmation designation command is not received (step S466; No), the variable display effect process is terminated and waits. If the predetermined time has passed without receiving the symbol confirmation designation command after the variable display time has elapsed, the predetermined error processing is performed in response to the failure to receive the symbol confirmation designation command normally. It may be executed.

  When a symbol confirmation designation command is received in step S466 (step S466; Yes), for example, a variable display of decorative symbols such as transmitting a predetermined display control command to the VDP or the like of the display control unit 123 is performed. In step S467, control is performed to display the final stop symbol (determined decorative symbol) that is the display result in step S467. Further, a predetermined time is set as a big hit start designation command reception waiting time (step S468). Then, the value of the effect process flag is updated to “3” which is a value corresponding to the variable display stop process (step S469), and then the variable display effect process is ended.

  As described above, in the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to the above-described embodiment, the pre-reading effect in which the ratio (big hit reliability) resulting in the specific display is higher than the specific ratio such as the first specific ratio and the second specific ratio is executed. In such a case, the execution ratio (big hit reliability) when the determination result of the determination means when the start condition is satisfied is a specific display result is higher than the execution ratio when the display result is not the specific display result. Since the announcement effect is executed, the discouragement of the player can be prevented. Therefore, the interest of the game can be enhanced. Further, in the present embodiment, as a determination criterion for determining the notice effect selection criteria, it is specified as a prefetch effect having the highest jackpot reliability among the executed, and the jackpot reliability of the prefetch effect serving as the determination criterion is determined from the above specified ratio. When it is high, the notice effect is executed in an effect mode higher than a predetermined standard. Some players pay attention to an effect with a high jackpot reliability when multiple pre-reading effects are executed, but according to such a configuration, an effect of a pre-reading effect that has a high degree of attention for such a player. Depending on the content, it is possible to determine an appropriate notice effect mode.

  Further, in the pachinko gaming machine 1 in the above embodiment, based on the notice effect selection criteria determined in step S502 of FIG. 29, the effect mode of the notice effect before reach establishment is determined in step S504. Therefore, it is possible to appropriately determine the production mode of the pre-reach pre-announcement effect with a high degree of attention among the pre-reach pre-announcement effect and the pre-reach pre-announcement effect according to the execution contents of the pre-reading production with high jackpot reliability. . Therefore, the discouragement of the player can be prevented and the interest of the game can be enhanced.

  Further, in FIG. 29, when it is determined that the pseudo-continuous effect is executed in the variable display (step S503; Yes), the step-up notice that is executed a plurality of times is executed before re-variation. The effect mode of the notice effect (pre-re-change notice effect) is determined according to the notice selection criterion. Therefore, when a notice effect such as a step-up notice is executed a plurality of times, the effect of the notice effect that is executed at a predetermined timing (the notice effect before re-variation with high attention that is executed first) has a high degree of reliability. It can be determined appropriately according to the execution contents of the pre-reading effect. Therefore, since the disappointment of the player can be prevented, the interest of the game is improved.

  In addition, since the notice effect is executed at the selection ratio of FIG. 31 and FIG. 32, the ratio (big hit reliability) resulting in the specific display result of the pre-reading effect as the determination criterion is a specific ratio (first specific ratio or second specific ratio). If the ratio is larger than the ratio), the jackpot reliability corresponding to the effect mode of the notice effect to be executed is a ratio that is determined from the jackpot reliability of the pre-reading effect as a determination criterion. 2nd reduction range). For this reason, it is possible to limit the possibility that the specific display result indicated by the pre-reading effect will be a small specific display result beyond the predetermined reduction range from being indicated by the notice effect. Therefore, since the expectation heightened by the pre-reading effect can be prevented from being lost by the notice effect, the interest of the game is improved.

  In addition, by executing a pre-reading effect having a plurality of stages that are big hits in such a manner that the player can recognize which stage, the player's sense of expectation can be raised in different sizes for each stage. Therefore, the effect of prefetching can be enhanced. In relation to such a configuration, in the process shown in FIG. 23, when it is determined that the first prefetch effect of the first stage is executed (step S712; Yes), the second prefetch effect and the third prefetch effect. Restricting execution of the third pre-reading effect in the first stage when it is determined that the effect is executed in the first stage and the second pre-reading effect in the first stage is executed (step S716; Yes). (FIG. 26B and FIG. 27B). According to such a configuration, it is possible to prevent a player from being discouraged by executing a plurality of pre-read effects with a low ratio of the specific display result (first stage).

  The present invention is not limited to the above embodiment, and various applications and modifications are possible. As a specific example, any of the configurations of the following modified examples can be employed.

  (Modification 1) In the above embodiment, the prefetch effect having the highest jackpot reliability among the steps executed in step S501 of the notice effect selection process (FIG. 29) is specified as a determination criterion, and in FIG. In the determination example of B), the notice effect selection criteria were determined. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and corresponds to a stage where the possibility of a specific display result (high hit reliability is high) among the plurality of prefetch effects (first to third prefetch effects) executed in step S501. A configuration in which the pre-reading effect is specified as a determination criterion is also possible. For example, in step S501, referring to the prefetch effect buffer provided in the effect control buffer setting unit 194, the prefetch effect that corresponds to the most frequently executed step may be determined as the determining means. In this case, for example, when the second prefetching effect is executed in the effect pattern SEP2-2 (second stage) and the third prefetching effect is executed in the effect pattern SEP3-3 (third stage), the big hit reliability is high. Instead of SEP2-2, the third pre-reading effect of SEP3-3, which has a higher level, is specified as the determination criterion.

  When a stage corresponding to a plurality of jackpot reliability levels (first to third stages) is set for each prefetch effect, a player who pays particular attention to a prefetch effect with a high level apart from the actual jackpot reliability level There is. In this modified example, when the percentage of the specific display result of the pre-reading effect that has a high degree of attention for such a player and the level of the specific display result is higher than the specific ratio, the execution in the case of not being the specific display result Since the notice effect is executed in an effect mode in which the execution ratio when the determination result of the start condition establishment means is a specific display result with respect to the ratio is higher than a predetermined reference, the player can be prevented from being discouraged. Therefore, the interest of the game can be enhanced.

  In the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to the first modification, based on the notice effect selection criteria determined in accordance with the prefetch effect that is high in step S502 in FIG. 29, the effect mode of the notice effect before reaching reach is determined in step S504. . Therefore, between the pre-reach pre-announcement effect and the pre-reach pre-announcement effect, the pre-reach pre-announcement effect aspect with a high degree of attention is appropriately determined according to the execution content of the pre-reading effect with a high level of specific display results. I can do it. Therefore, the discouragement of the player can be prevented and the interest of the game can be enhanced.

  Further, in the pachinko gaming machine 1 in the first modification, when it is determined in FIG. 29 that the pseudo-continuous effect is executed in the variable display (step S503; Yes), the pachinko gaming machine 1 is executed in conjunction with a plurality of times. Among the step-up notices, the effect form of the notice effect (pre-rechange notice effect) executed before re-variation is determined according to the notice selection criteria. For this reason, when a notice effect such as a step-up notice is executed a plurality of times, the effect form of the notice effect that is executed at a predetermined timing (first notice effect before re-variation with a high degree of attention) is displayed as a specific display result. It can be appropriately determined according to the execution content of the pre-reading effect at a high stage. Therefore, since the disappointment of the player can be prevented, the interest of the game is improved.

  In the first modification, when the notice effect is executed with the selection ratios of FIGS. 31 and 32, the ratio (big hit reliability) that is the specific display result of the pre-reading effect as the determination criterion is the specific ratio (first specific ratio). Or larger than the second specific ratio), the big hit reliability corresponding to the effect mode of the notice effect to be executed is a reduction range (first reduction range) determined in advance from the big hit reliability of the pre-reading effect as a determination criterion. Or within the range of the second reduction width). For this reason, it is possible to limit the possibility that the specific display result indicated by the pre-reading effect will be a small specific display result beyond the predetermined reduction range from being indicated by the notice effect. Therefore, since the expectation heightened by the pre-reading effect can be prevented from being lost by the notice effect, the interest of the game is improved.

  (Modification 2) In the above embodiment, the pre-reading effect having the highest jackpot reliability among the steps executed in step S501 of the notice effect selection process (FIG. 29) is specified as the determination criterion, and FIG. In the determination example of B), the notice effect selection criteria were determined. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the notice effect selection criterion may be determined according to the number of prefetched effects that have been executed or a combination thereof (when a plurality of effects are executed). For this purpose, the notice effect selection criterion is determined in step S502 using, for example, the determination example shown in FIG. 34, and the effect form of the notice effect is selected in steps S504 and S505 according to the notice effect selection criterion. It ’s fine.

  Alternatively, in place of FIG. 34, when only one of the first to third prefetch effects is executed in step S502, the low standard is set, and when only two are executed, the medium standard is set to 3. If all three are executed, the high criterion may be determined as the criterion for selecting the notice effect.

  When a plurality of pre-reading effects are executed, the player's expectations are higher than when the pre-reading effects are executed alone. Therefore, after a pre-reading effect is executed, if a pre-announcement effect with a low specific display result ratio (low jackpot reliability) is executed, the player may be discouraged depending on the number or combination of the pre-reading effects executed. There is a fear. According to the configuration of the modified example 2, when the pre-reading effect is executed with a specific number or more or a specific combination, the determination result of the start condition establishment time determining means is obtained with respect to the execution ratio when the specific display result is not obtained. Since the notice effect is executed in an effect mode in which the execution ratio in the case of the specific display result is higher than a predetermined reference, it is possible to prevent the player from being discouraged. Therefore, the interest of the game can be enhanced.

  In the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to the second modification, based on the notice effect selection criteria determined according to the number or combination of the prefetch effects executed in step S502 of FIG. 29, the effect of the notice effect before the reach is established in step S504. Determine aspects. Therefore, it is possible to appropriately determine the effect mode of the pre-reach notice effect with a high degree of attention among the pre-reach notice effect and the reach notice effect according to the number or combination of the pre-read effects executed. Therefore, the discouragement of the player can be prevented and the interest of the game can be enhanced.

  In addition, in the pachinko gaming machine 1 in the modified example 2, when it is determined in FIG. 29 that the pseudo-continuous effect is executed in the variable display (step S503; Yes), the pachinko gaming machine 1 is executed in conjunction with a plurality of times. Among the step-up advance notices, the effect mode of the advance notice effect (pre-rechange notice effect) executed before re-change is determined according to the notice selection criteria determined according to the number or combination of pre-read effects executed. Therefore, when a notice effect such as a step-up notice is executed a plurality of times, a look-ahead effect in which the effect form of the notice effect that is executed at a predetermined timing (the notice effect before re-variation with a high degree of attention that is executed first) is executed. It can be appropriately determined according to the number or combination. Therefore, since the disappointment of the player can be prevented, the interest of the game is improved.

  Moreover, in the modification 2, the ratio (big hit reliability) which becomes the specific display result corresponding to the production | presentation aspect of the notice effect to be performed is more than a specific number or a specific ratio as shown in FIG.31 and FIG.32. You may set so that it may be included in the range of the reduction | decrease width defined beforehand from the ratio used as the specific display result when the prefetch effect is performed in combination. For example, the jackpot reliability in the case where the first to third prefetch effects are executed with the execution combinations shown in FIG. The ratio can be obtained. Therefore, in the determination ratios of FIGS. 31 (B) and 32 (B), the presentation mode (corresponding to the low standard) that can be selected is the jackpot reliability corresponding to the medium standard execution combination of FIG. 34 obtained by this method. May be set to be included in a predetermined reduction range (third reduction range, for example, 1/20). Similarly, in the determination ratios of FIGS. 31 (C) and 32 (C), the presentation mode of the notice effect that can be selected (corresponding to the middle standard) corresponds to the high standard execution combination of FIG. 34 obtained by this method. What is necessary is just to set so that it may be contained in predetermined | prescribed reduction | decrease width (4th reduction | decrease width, for example, 1/5) with respect to the big hit reliability to do. According to the configuration of such a modified example, a specific display result that is smaller than a predetermined decrease range with respect to the possibility of a specific display result indicated by a pre-reading effect executed with a specific number or more or a specific combination. It is possible to limit the possibility of being shown by the notice effect. Therefore, since the expectation heightened by the pre-reading effect can be prevented from being lost by the notice effect, the interest of the game is improved.

  (Modification 3) In the above embodiment, the pre-reading effect having the highest jackpot reliability among the steps executed in step S501 of the notice effect selection process (FIG. 29) is specified as a determination criterion, and in FIG. In the determination example of B), the notice effect selection criteria were determined. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and among the plurality of pre-reading effects (first to third pre-reading effects) executed in step S501, a pre-reading effect corresponding to an aspect that is easily recognized by the player after being executed is determined as a criterion. A configuration specified as For this purpose, in step S501, a pre-reading effect corresponding to an aspect that can be easily recognized by the player may be specified as a determination criterion. For example, a prefetch effect with a large effect area is easier for a player to recognize than a prefetch effect with a small effect area. From this point of view, the ease of recognition by the player is as follows: third prefetch effect> second prefetch effect> first prefetch effect. Accordingly, in step S501, when the third prefetching effect is being executed (regardless of the jackpot reliability and the stage of the first and second prefetching effects), the third prefetching effect is specified as the determination criterion. Further, when the third prefetch effect is not executed and the second prefetch effect is executed (regardless of the big hit reliability and the stage of the first prefetch effect), the second prefetch effect is specified as a determination criterion. do it.

  Alternatively, when paying attention to the length of the execution period, the pre-reading effect that is executed for a long time is easier for the player to recognize than the pre-reading effect that is executed only for a short period of time. For example, the ease of recognizing differs depending on how many variations before the symbol variation is started. In the example of FIG. 10A, since the first prefetch effect and the second prefetch effect are executed over three variations, the third prefetch effect is performed over two variations before the symbol variation is started. It is considered easier to recognize. In the first look-ahead effect and the second look-ahead effect, the first look-ahead effect that is always executed during the fluctuation is easier to recognize than the second look-ahead effect that is executed only at a predetermined timing. In the example of FIG. 10B, the first pre-reading effect that is executed over four variations before the symbol variation is started, the second pre-reading effect that is executed over three variations, and the two variations are executed. It is thought that it is easy to recognize in the order of the third prefetch effect. In this way, in step S501, the prefetching effect that is most easily recognized among the executions may be specified as a determination criterion according to how many changes have been executed before the symbol change is started. Specifically, when it is determined in step S709 in the prefetching effect determination process (FIGS. 22 and 23) that the category can be notified in advance, the change (“ It is determined how many fluctuations (variable display corresponding to “non-reach (no pseudo-ream))” fluctuate. Then, in steps S711, S713 and S714, and steps S717 and S718, the number of changes before the symbol change is determined with reference to the execution period (maximum) in FIGS. Respectively. Then, in step S501 in FIG. 29, the stored prefetch effect having the largest number of fluctuations before the symbol variation may be specified as the prefetch effect serving as the determination reference.

  Alternatively, there are players who pay attention to prefetching effects that are simply executed for a long time. For such a player, a pre-reading effect that has been executed for a long time may be specified as a pre-reading effect that is a determination criterion as a pre-reading effect that is easy to recognize. For this purpose, an effect time measurement timer corresponding to each of the first to third prefetch effects is provided in the prefetch effect buffer. In steps S302, S304, and S306 of the prefetch effect execution process (FIG. 24), the timer is counted up each time each prefetch effect is executed. In this way, in step S501 in FIG. 29, the prefetch effect having the largest timer value of the effect time measurement timer may be specified as the prefetch effect that becomes the determination criterion.

  Furthermore, when the ease of recognition is known in advance, for example, when the player's ease of recognition is determined by experiment, for example, the pre-reading effect that becomes the determination criterion based on the known ease of recognition May be specified. In such a case, it is only necessary to specify a pre-reading effect as a determination criterion with the priority as shown in FIG. 34 in step S501.

  Some players pay attention to prefetching effects that are easy to recognize. In the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to the third modification, based on the notice effect selection criteria determined according to the prefetch effect that is easy to recognize (high attention to such a player) executed in step S502 of FIG. In step S504, the effect mode of the pre-reach notice effect is determined. Therefore, of the pre-reach pre-announcement effect and the pre-reach pre-announcement effect, the pre-reach pre-announcement effect aspect that has a higher level of attention is appropriately selected according to the execution content of the pre-reading effect that is easy to recognize (high attention level). Can be determined. Therefore, the discouragement of the player can be prevented and the interest of the game can be enhanced.

  Further, in the pachinko gaming machine 1 in the modified example 3, when it is determined in FIG. 29 that the pseudo continuous effect is executed in the variable display (step S503; Yes), the pachinko gaming machine 1 is executed in conjunction with a plurality of times. Among the step-up notices, the effect form of the notice effect (pre-rechange notice effect) executed before re-variation is determined according to the notice selection criteria. For this reason, when a notice effect such as a step-up notice is executed a plurality of times, it is easy to recognize the effect form of the notice effect that is executed at a predetermined timing (the notice effect that is first executed before the re-change). It is possible to determine appropriately according to the execution content of the pre-reading effect. Therefore, since the disappointment of the player can be prevented, the interest of the game is improved.

  Further, in the third modification, when the notice effect is executed with the selection ratios of FIG. 31 and FIG. 32, the ratio (big hit reliability) resulting in the specific display result of the pre-reading effect as the determination criterion is the specific ratio (first specific ratio). Or larger than the second specific ratio), the ratio of the big hit reliability corresponding to the effect mode of the notice effect to be executed is the ratio of the big hit reliability of the pre-reading effect serving as the determination criterion. 1 reduction width or second reduction width). Therefore, the notice effect indicates that a specific display result that is easy to recognize (a high degree of attention) may be a specific display result indicated by a pre-reading effect, but may be a small specific display result that exceeds a predetermined reduction range. Can be limited. Therefore, since the expectation heightened by the pre-reading effect can be prevented from being lost by the notice effect, the interest of the game is improved.

  Further, in the above-described embodiments and modifications, for the sake of simplicity, the example in which only the pre-reach pre-announcement is executed as the pre-reach effect (pre-reach advance effect) executed at the timing before the reach is established has been described. However, a change start notice executed when the identification symbol changes, an all identification symbol change notice executed when all the identification symbols are changed, and a timing when one of the identification symbols is stopped and two are changed A plurality of pre-reach notice effects that are executed at a plurality of timings, such as a single stop notice, may be executed. Similarly, as a notice effect that is executed at the timing after reach is established (notice effect after reach), a plurality of notice effects that are executed at a plurality of times such as when reach is reached or immediately before the start of super reach is executed. good. For example, notice that the jackpot reliability differs according to a plurality of identifiable effects, such as displaying any one or a plurality of characters or items in combination at a predetermined position of the image display device 5 at each timing. The production may be executed at each timing. At this time, it is desirable that a notice effect with a higher degree of jackpot reliability is executed over time. For this purpose, the pre-reach notice effect to be executed first in step S464 is determined, and the notice effect to be executed thereafter is determined in step S509, and then the jackpot reliability is higher than that executed previously. In step S510, it is determined whether or not a predetermined prohibition condition is met, such as when a low-priority announcement effect is executed, and if so, the execution is canceled. It is sufficient to execute processing such as correction in step S511. With such a configuration, the announcement effect is executed at various timings without causing the player to be discouraged by executing the announcement effect in an effect mode corresponding to extremely low jackpot reliability with respect to the pre-reading effect as a decision criterion. I can do it.

  Moreover, in the said embodiment and modification, it demonstrated that the production | presentation form which does not correspond to the notice selection criteria determined in step S502 is not selected in step S504 and step S505 (refer FIG.31 and FIG.32). However, the method for executing the notice effect in a mode in which the big hit reliability is higher than a predetermined standard is not limited to this. For example, after selecting the effect mode of the notice effect at the same selection ratio regardless of the notice selection criteria in step S504 or step S505, the jackpot reliability of the selected effect mode is obtained. Then, when the predetermined criterion stipulated by the notice selection criterion is not satisfied, the big hit reliability may be corrected to be higher than the predetermined criterion.

  In the above-described embodiment, description is made on the assumption that a notice pattern in a plurality of notice effects that can be executed from the start of variable display of decorative symbols and the like until a display result is derived is sequentially selected for each notice effect. did. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the notice pattern in a plurality of notice effects may be determined collectively. In this case, a plurality of advance notice combination patterns prepared by combining the advance notice patterns in a plurality of advance notice effects are prepared in advance, and whether or not the advance notice prohibition condition is established for a specific advance notice effect is prohibited (restricted). Regardless of this, it is only necessary to select one of the notice combination patterns at a predetermined ratio so that the effect operation control for execution is not performed for the notice effect whose execution is prohibited (restricted).

  When individually selecting a notice pattern in a plurality of notice effects, it is necessary to prepare a selection table for selecting each notice effect, and the data capacity of the selection table tends to increase. On the other hand, when selecting a plurality of notice patterns in a plurality of notice effects at once, the number of types of notice combination patterns may increase, but a selection table is prepared for each of the plurality of notice effects. There is no need, and the increase in the data capacity of the selection table can be suppressed.

  On the other hand, according to the jackpot reliability that is predicted by one of the multiple notice effects, the selection ratio of the jackpot reliability that is notified by other notice effects is different, and the notices in the multiple notice effects are made. By sequentially determining the category and the notice pattern, it becomes easy to adjust the jackpot reliability to be noticed by each notice effect, and the notice category and the notice pattern in a plurality of notice effects can be appropriately selected.

  In the embodiment and the modification described above, by selecting the pre-reach effect at a selection ratio according to the notice effect selection criteria in step S504 among the pre-reach effect and the post-reach effect, the jackpot reliability is predetermined. The performance before reach establishment was executed in a mode higher than the standard. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, in a gaming machine that can be developed from a normal reach production to any one of a plurality of super reach productions with different jackpot reliability, a supermarket is produced by an effect executed after the reach is established (such as a notice effect after the reach is established). A post-reach effect that suggests the presence or absence of reach and the type of super-reach effect that develops may be executed in an effect mode that has a higher hit reliability than a predetermined standard. In such a gaming machine, there is a player who pays particular attention to the post-reach production in anticipation of development to a super-reach production with high hit reliability. In the configuration according to this modified example, depending on the execution contents of the pre-reading effect, the effect of the notice effect after reaching the reach is noticeable to such a player among the notice effect before reaching the reach and the notice effect after the reach is established. Can be determined appropriately. Therefore, the discouragement of the player can be prevented and the interest of the game can be enhanced.

  In the embodiment and the modification described above, when executing the notice effect (step-up notice) a plurality of times in the variable display for executing the pseudo-continuous effect, the notice effect before the re-variation is determined according to the notice effect selection criteria in step S505. By selecting at the selection ratio, the notice effect (first notice effect before re-variation) to be executed was executed in a mode in which the jackpot reliability is higher than a predetermined standard. However, other timing (for example, a step-up notice to be executed last) may be executed in a production mode higher than a predetermined standard. In this case, the announcement effect that is executed first may be executed in an effect mode corresponding to a jackpot reliability lower than a predetermined criterion, but even in that case, the jackpot reliability that is higher than the predetermined criterion thereafter. The notice effect is executed in the effect mode corresponding to the above. In this way, even if the reliability once enhanced by the pre-reading effect may be awakened once, the notice effect is executed in the effect mode corresponding to the big hit reliability higher than the predetermined standard after that, While preventing discouragement, the player can be given excitement as if the confidence level that is a big hit goes up and down.

  In the above-described embodiment, the description has been given on the assumption that the jackpot reliability as a possibility of becoming a jackpot gaming state is notified by each of the plurality of pre-read effects and the plurality of notice effects. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and at least a part of the pre-reading effect and / or the notice effect provides a notice of a possibility that a predetermined game value advantageous to a player different from the big hit game state is given. May be. For example, a game value advantageous to the player is provided in the probable change state and the short time state, in which a big hit game state is likely to occur compared to the normal state. In addition, the maximum number of rounds that can be executed in the big hit gaming state becomes the first round number (for example, “15”) larger than the second round number (for example, “2”), or is executed in a short time state. The upper limit number of possible special figure games becomes a first number (for example, “100”) larger than the second number (for example, “50”), and the big hit probability in the probability variation state is from the second probability (for example, 1/50). The first probability (for example, 1/20) is high, and the number of consecutive chunks, which is the number of times controlled in the big hit gaming state without being controlled in the normal state, is larger than the second consecutive number of chunks (for example, “5”). Various game values, such as a large number of first consecutive channels (for example, “10”) may be given. A pre-reading effect and / or a notice effect that predicts the possibility that at least a part of such various game values will be given may be executed.

  In addition, the production modes of the plurality of pre-reading productions and the announcement production are not limited to the above production modes. For example, as a pre-reading effect or a notice effect, a predetermined effect BGM, sound emission of a sound effect, an image as if a school of fish crosses a predetermined area of the image display device 5, a telop is sent to a predetermined display area, The pre-reading effect and the notice effect may be executed in a predetermined manner that can be distinguished from other effects such as lighting of an effect lamp. When a plurality of pre-reading effects are executed in a mode in which an image is displayed on the display area of the image display device 5, an area where an image related to the pre-reading effects is actually displayed as the “effect area” of the third modification example, Or the ease of recognition can be set on the basis of the size of the display area set for the pre-reading effect. Furthermore, it can be set that the greater the volume of the sound effect or the higher the brightness of the effect lamp, the greater the recognition.

  Furthermore, there are players who pay particular attention to the production that changes greatly before and after the production starts and during the production. Corresponding to such a player, a setting can be made such that the greater the change before and after the start of the production or during the production, the easier it is to recognize. Here, the definition of the magnitude of change can be arbitrarily selected according to the characteristics of the target player from the rate of change compared to before the effect, the rate of change during the effect, or the absolute amount of change. . For example, paying attention to the speed of color change, if multiple pre-reading notices that change the character's design or background color are executed before or after the start of the production or during the production, the color will be like `` blue → purple → red '' There are cases where it is easier to recognize a look-ahead effect that changes at a stroke, such as “blue → red”, rather than changing in stages. When hue is used as an index of color change, it can be determined that a large change has occurred when the hue changes to the counter electrode. Specifically, the pre-reading effect production pattern, the size (change rate, speed, absolute amount) of a predetermined coefficient that can be compared, such as color (for example, hue), volume, character mode (size, age, etc.), etc. Etc.) is stored in advance in the ROM 121 in correspondence with the ranking of the ease of recognition defined based on the above. Then, a notice effect that is easy to recognize among the pre-read effects executed with reference to the table in step S501 may be specified as a determination criterion.

  Moreover, in the said embodiment and modification, the aspect which a player can recognize which stage is several pre-reading effects with several steps | corners which become a big hit like the 1st-3rd pre-reading effects. Executed with. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and a configuration in which a plurality of big hit stages are not set in some or all of the plurality of prefetch effects is also possible. Even in this case, the pre-reading effect as a determination criterion may be determined in step S501 of FIG. 29 based on the viewpoint of the big hit reliability of the executed plurality of pre-reading effects and the ease of recognizing the effect.

  Further, as another method of executing the notice effect in the effect mode corresponding to the jackpot reliability higher than the predetermined standard, in addition to the embodiment and the modified example, the jackpot reliability of the predetermination effect of the specified decision criterion is A configuration that additionally executes a specific effect in addition to the notice effect that is executed when a predetermined condition is satisfied, such as when the pre-read effect is executed in a predetermined combination or more than a specific ratio. Is possible. Here, the effect of the specific mode indicates that the big hit reliability is higher during the execution period of the normal notice effect (for example, display of the predetermined character) that is executed even when the predetermined condition is not satisfied (for example, It is an effect that the player can recognize that the jackpot reliability is higher than usual, such as displaying a chance image (as if the character is wearing additional accessories), further operating the effector, etc. I just need it. For example, in step S504 or S505, the mode of the notice effect is determined at the same determination ratio (for example, the ratio in FIG. 31A or (the ratio in FIG. 32A)) regardless of the selection criterion determined in step S502. In step S464, in addition to the notice effect selected in step S504 or S505, the effect of a specific mode according to the selection criterion determined in step S502 (for example, in the case of a medium criterion as a chance image, The display of the crown image corresponding to the high standard, etc. may be further executed.With such a configuration, it is only necessary to additionally execute the specific aspect according to the selection standard, so that the processing load is small. Thus, the notice effect can be executed in the effect mode corresponding to the big hit reliability higher than the predetermined standard.

  In the above embodiment, in order to notify the effect control microcomputer of the change pattern indicating the change mode such as the change time, the type of reach effect, and the presence or absence of pseudo-continuous, one change pattern command is transmitted when the change is started. Although the example to do was shown, you may make it notify a variation pattern to a production control microcomputer by two or more commands. Specifically, in the case of notifying by two commands, the game control microcomputer uses the first command to indicate whether there is a pseudo-ream, a slip effect, etc. before reaching (so-called second if not reaching). A command indicating the fluctuation time and fluctuation mode is transmitted before the stop, and the second command is the so-called second stop after reaching the reach such as the type of reach and the presence / absence of the redrawing effect (if the reach is not reach) A command indicating the variation time and variation mode of (after) may be transmitted. In this case, the effect control microcomputer may perform effect control in variable display based on the variable time derived from the combination of two commands. The game control microcomputer notifies the change time by each of the two commands, and the effect control microcomputer selects the specific change mode executed at each timing. Good. When sending two commands, two commands may be sent within the same timer interrupt. After sending the first command, a certain period of time has passed (for example, the next timer interrupt). The second command may be transmitted. Note that the variation mode indicated by each command is not limited to this example, and the order of transmission can be changed as appropriate. In this way, by notifying the variation pattern by two or more commands, the amount of data that must be stored as the variation pattern command can be reduced.

  In the above embodiment, as an example of the gaming machine, the description has been given using the pachinko gaming machine 1 having a function of variably displaying special symbols and decorative symbols and a function of displaying various effect images. However, at least a part of the configuration and functions of the pachinko gaming machine 1 in the above embodiment can also be applied to other gaming machines such as a slot machine.

  In addition, the device configuration and data configuration of the gaming machine, the processing shown in the flowchart, the image display operation in the image display device for executing predetermined effects such as the previous stage effect and the notice effect, the sound output operation in the speaker, and the game Various rendering operations including lighting operations in effect lamps and decorative LEDs can be arbitrarily changed and modified without departing from the spirit of the present invention. In addition, the gaming machine of the present invention is not limited to a payout type gaming machine that pays out a predetermined number of gaming media as prizes based on the occurrence of winnings, and is scored based on the occurrence of winnings by enclosing gaming media It can also be applied to an enclosed game machine that gives

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

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

  With regard to the pachinko gaming machine 1 described above, it has been described that the process (S13 in FIG. 14) of outputting information (data) relating to the pachinko gaming machine 1 from the information output circuit to the outside of the pachinko gaming machine 1 has been described. Information output to the outside of the pachinko gaming machine 1 through S13 as described above may include a winning information signal that can specify the winning slot and the number of winning prizes where the game ball has won.

  In the pachinko gaming machine 1, for example, a first start winning opening, a second starting winning opening, a large winning opening (special variable winning ball apparatus 7), and a normal winning opening (ordinary winning ball apparatus 6A, normal variable winning ball apparatus) A plurality of types of prize winning openings as in 6B) are provided. Then, the winning of the game balls in these winning holes is detected by a winning detection switch such as the first starting port switch 22A, the second starting port switch 22B, the count switch 23, and the winning port switch, and the detection signal is a game. Input to the control microcomputer 100.

  The game control microcomputer 100 can perform processing for counting and storing the number of game balls (winning number) won in each winning port during a predetermined period based on a detection signal input from the winning detection switch. It is possible, and by performing such processing, winning information that can specify the winning opening and the number of winning prizes that the game ball has won during a predetermined period is stored. Then, the game control microcomputer 100, based on such winning information, every time a predetermined period elapses, a winning information signal that can identify the winning mouth and the winning number that the game ball has won in each predetermined period. Is output from the information output circuit to the outside of the pachinko gaming machine 1.

  The number of winnings specified by the winning information signal that can be counted and stored in the gaming control microcomputer 100 and the winning opening and the winning number that the game ball has won can be specified is, for example, every predetermined elapsed time such as every 10 minutes. Information on the number of winnings (output every predetermined elapsed time), information on the number of winnings for each period required to generate one big hit gaming state (output every time a big winning gaming state occurs), each day Information regarding the number of winnings since the power was turned on (output every predetermined elapsed time), and information regarding the number of winnings for each player (when the player can be specified by player specifying information such as game card information) In addition, any information may be output when the end of the game is selected by each player.

  In addition, as the winning information signal that can specify the winning opening and the winning number that the game ball has won, the winning opening and the winning number (one piece) that are output every time the gaming ball wins any of the winning holes, and May be a winning information signal that can identify the

  Further, as another example of outputting the winning information signal to the outside of the pachinko gaming machine 1, in order to perform an operation test on a part of the output terminals of the main board 11 with a test device provided outside the pachinko gaming machine 1. These connection parts may be connected, and a winning information signal indicating the latest winning information in the current gaming state may be output from the gaming control microcomputer 100 to the outside via the connecting portion.

  In this way, a winning information signal that can specify the winning opening and the number of winning points of the game balls is output to the outside of the pachinko gaming machine 1, so that the winning opening where the gaming balls have won outside the pachinko gaming machine 1 is output. It is possible to recognize winning information that can specify the number of winnings.

[Second Embodiment]
As the second embodiment, a pachinko gaming machine having the game control as an example of the game control, such as the pachinko gaming machine 1 described in the first embodiment, is configured as an enclosed circulation pachinko machine (pachinko gaming machine). An example of a system for managing the pachinko machine and the card unit will be described. Note that the gaming machine, card unit, and system for managing them described as the second embodiment below may be applied to any of the gaming machine and card unit described as the first embodiment.

  The present invention shown by the embodiment described below is a gaming machine represented by, for example, a pachinko gaming machine or a slot machine, and includes a first control means and a second control means that communicate with each other, It relates to a game board and a game frame.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, for example, it includes a first control means communicably connected to an authentication information management apparatus and a second control means communicably connected to the first control means, and the first control means and the second control A means is disclosed as a pair authentication information, and a second control means is disclosed as a gaming machine in which one of the pair authentication information is stored in advance (Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2012-1000076).

  Conventionally, for example, there is one that performs transmission / reception of ciphertexts using a common key cryptosystem between a main CPU that controls the gaming state of a gaming machine and a sub-CPU that controls, for example, a variable display device (Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2004-2000). -89701).

  In the gaming machine, when the first control means and the second control means communicate with each other, there is a possibility that the communication between the two control means is interrupted and the communication between the two becomes impossible. Assuming such a situation, it is necessary to predetermine a return procedure after communication between the two becomes impossible. In this case, if the predetermined information that has been generated on the one hand and is scheduled to be transmitted to the other side has not reached the other side, a return process in which the predetermined information is transmitted to the other side must be determined upon return.

  However, if such a return process is included in the user program executed by the control means, the control burden on the control means executing the user program increases.

  The present invention has been conceived in view of such circumstances, and its purpose is to reduce the control burden related to the return processing after the communication between the first control means and the second control means becomes impossible. That is.

(1) A gaming machine (P stand 2F) including first control means (main control part 161F) and second control means (payout control part 171F) communicating with each other,
At least one of the first control means and the second control means is:
User program areas that can store user programs (main control storage unit 161cF, payout control storage unit 171cF),
Communication control circuits (communication control circuits 161bF, 171bF) for transmitting predetermined information generated by the execution of the user program,
The communication control circuit is
An information storage unit for storing the predetermined information (for example, a transmission data buffer 613F shown in FIG. 65, a data reception register 713F shown in FIG. 66, etc.);
Information transmitting means (encrypted communication control units 600F, 700F) for transmitting the predetermined information stored in the information storage unit in a predetermined mode (for example, an aspect such as encryption);
When the communication control circuit recovers from the communication disabled state (recovery function of the communication control circuits 161bF and 171bF), the communication control circuit executes a return process for transmitting the predetermined information stored in the information storage unit, and the return process On the condition (SF292 in FIG. 68: a flag indicating the completion of recovery is written in the recovery communication completion register 618F and the recovery request / completion register 718F in FIG. 68), the generation of the predetermined information by the execution of the user program 68 (SF293 in FIG. 68: A signal for starting the processing of the user program is transmitted, or the processing of the user program stopped by the stopping unit is canceled and the processing of the user program is restarted).

  According to the above configuration, when returning from the communication disabled state, the communication control circuit does not regenerate and transmit the predetermined information that has not been transmitted due to the communication disabled by executing the user program. Since the predetermined information stored in the information storage unit is transmitted, it is not necessary to execute the user program in order to recover from the incommunicable state, and the control burden can be reduced accordingly.

(2) In (1) above,
Both the first control unit (main control unit 161F) and the second control unit (payout control unit 171F) include the user program area and the communication control circuits (communication control circuits 161bF and 171bF).

  According to the above configuration, since both the first control unit and the second control unit include the user program area and the communication control circuit, the processing is appropriately restarted in both the first control unit and the second control unit. be able to.

(3) In the above (1) or (2),
Both the first control unit (main control unit 161F) and the second control unit (payout control unit 171F) include the user program area and the communication control circuit (communication control circuits 161bF and 171bF).
When transmitting the predetermined information, the communication control circuit also transmits arrival confirmation information that is updated according to a predetermined update pattern to confirm the arrival of the predetermined information (FIG. 71: to the payout control unit 171F) Send the power-on notification command including the serial number sent last time (main control serial number = n + 1)),
The communication control circuit of one of the first control means and the second control means resends the arrival confirmation information transmitted last time when returning from the communication disabled state (FIG. 71: power supply for power-on notification command) Send response of input / output)
The first control means or the second control means including the other communication control circuit includes the arrival confirmation information received when returning from the communication disabled state and the arrival confirmation information received before communication is disabled. Is not based on the predetermined information (FIG. 71: main control sequence number = n + 1 and payout control sequence number = n do not match) based on the predetermined information transmitted by the one communication control circuit by the return processing. Information update processing (FIG. 71: execute recovery processing) is executed.

  According to the above configuration, when the arrival confirmation information received when returning from the communication disabled state and the arrival confirmation information received before the communication is disabled are not in a predetermined relationship, one communication control is performed by the return process. Since the information updating process based on the predetermined information transmitted by the circuit is executed, the communication burden between the first control means and the second control means can be reduced.

(4) In the above (1) to (3),
The information storage unit includes a nonvolatile storage area (for example, a transmission data buffer 613F shown in FIG. 65, a data reception register 713F shown in FIG. 66) and a volatile storage area (for example, a register other than the transmission data buffer 613F shown in FIG. 65). And registers other than the data reception register 713F shown in FIG.

  According to the above configuration, since the information storage unit has the nonvolatile storage area and the volatile storage area, it is possible to suppress the amount of data required in the recovery process when communication is resumed.

(5) In the above (1) to (4),
In the communication control circuit, it is possible to set a valid period in which the predetermined information can be continuously written in the information storage unit after the authentication with the communication partner has expired (FIG. 66: main control unit transmission buffer write valid time setting) The register 719cF sets an effective time during which the data in the transmission data buffer 613F of the main control unit 161F can be written into the data reception register 713F after the authentication between the main control unit 161F and the payout control unit 171F is cut off. ).

  According to the above configuration, the communication control circuit can set a valid period during which the predetermined information can be written to the information storage unit continuously after the authentication with the communication partner expires. It is possible to reliably store the necessary information even after. For example, even if there is a floating ball (a ball that has not been dropped by being caught between nails of the game area 27F) when authentication with the communication partner is cut off due to power interruption or disconnection, the predetermined information is continuously displayed. By setting an effective period writable in the information storage unit, it is possible to reliably store and protect information that the floating ball has won.

(6) A game board (game board 26F) provided with first control means (main control unit 161F),
The first control means includes
It is possible to communicate with the second control means (payout control unit 171F) included in the game frame (front frame 5F),
A user program area (main control storage unit 161cF) capable of storing a user program;
A communication control circuit (communication control circuit 161bF) for transmitting the predetermined information generated by the execution of the user program,
The communication control circuit is
An information storage unit (for example, a transmission data buffer 613F shown in FIG. 65) for storing the predetermined information;
Information transmitting means (encrypted communication control unit 600F) for transmitting the predetermined information stored in the information storage unit in a predetermined manner (for example, an aspect such as encryption);
When the communication control circuit recovers from the communication disabled state (recovery function of the communication control circuit 161bF), the communication control circuit executes a return process for transmitting the predetermined information stored in the information storage unit, and ends the return process. 68 (SF292 in FIG. 68: a flag indicating recovery completion is written in the recovery communication completion register 618F), the generation of the predetermined information by execution of the user program is resumed (SF293 in FIG. 68: user program). A signal for starting the above process is transmitted, or the process of the user program stopped by the stopping means is canceled and the process of the user program is resumed).

  According to the above configuration, when returning from the communication disabled state, the communication control circuit does not regenerate and transmit the predetermined information that has not been transmitted due to the communication disabled by executing the user program. Since the predetermined information stored in the information storage unit is transmitted, it is not necessary to execute the user program in order to recover from the incommunicable state, and the control burden can be reduced accordingly.

(7) A game frame (front frame 5F) provided with second control means (payout control part 171F) communicating with the first control means (main control part 161F) included in the game board (game board 26F). ,
The second control means includes
A user program area (payout control storage unit 171cF) capable of storing a user program;
A communication control circuit (communication control circuit 171bF) for transmitting the predetermined information generated by the execution of the user program,
The communication control circuit is
An information storage unit (for example, a data reception register 713F shown in FIG. 66) for storing the predetermined information;
Information transmitting means (encrypted communication control unit 700F) for transmitting the predetermined information stored in the information storage unit in a predetermined mode (for example, an aspect such as encryption);
When the communication control circuit recovers from the communication disabled state (recovery function of the communication control circuit 171bF), the communication control circuit executes a return process for transmitting the predetermined information stored in the information storage unit, and ends the return process. 68 (SF292 in FIG. 68: a flag indicating recovery completion is written in the recovery request / completion register 718F), the generation of the predetermined information by execution of the user program is resumed (SF293 in FIG. 68: user A signal for starting the program processing is transmitted, or the processing of the user program stopped by the stopping means is canceled and the processing of the user program is resumed).

  According to the above configuration, when returning from the communication disabled state, the communication control circuit does not regenerate and transmit the predetermined information that has not been transmitted due to the communication disabled by executing the user program. Since the predetermined information stored in the information storage unit is transmitted, it is not necessary to execute the user program in order to recover from the incommunicable state, and the control burden can be reduced accordingly.

(8-1) A gaming machine (P stand 2F) including first control means (main control unit 161F) and second control means (payout control unit 171F) communicating with each other,
At least one of the first control means and the second control means is:
User program areas that can store user programs (main control storage unit 161cF, payout control storage unit 171cF),
Communication control circuits (communication control circuits 161bF, 171bF) for transmitting predetermined information generated by the execution of the user program,
The communication control circuit is
An information storage unit for storing the predetermined information (for example, a transmission data buffer 613F shown in FIG. 65, a data reception register 713F shown in FIG. 66, etc.);
Encryption means for encrypting information stored in the information storage unit (encrypted communication function of the communication control circuits 161bF and 171bF);
Encryption information transmitting means (encrypted communication function of communication control circuits 161bF and 171bF) for transmitting encrypted information encrypted by the encryption means,
At least one of the first control means and the second control means is a decryption means for decrypting the encrypted information transmitted by the other (for example, the communication control circuit 161bF decrypts the information encrypted by the communication control circuit 161bF). including.

  According to the above configuration, at least one of the first control unit and the second control unit encrypts the information stored in the information storage unit by the encryption unit of the communication control circuit and transmits the information transmitted by the other decryption unit. Since the information is decrypted, the processing of the encrypted communication performed between the first control means and the second control means can be reduced, and the contents of the encrypted information can be prevented from leaking and the security from being lowered. it can.

(8-2) In the above (8-1),
Both the first control unit (main control unit 161F) and the second control unit (payout control unit 171F) include the user program area and the communication control circuits (communication control circuits 161bF and 171bF).

  According to the above configuration, since both the first control unit and the second control unit include the user program area and the communication control circuit, the encrypted communication process is performed in both the first control unit and the second control unit. In addition to mitigation, it is possible to prevent the content of encrypted information from leaking and reducing security.

(8-3) In the above (8-1) or (8-2),
The communication control circuit generates an encryption key and a decryption key used for encryption communication when the power is turned on (for example, an encryption key and a decryption key are generated by an authentication sequence performed when the power is turned on shown in FIG. 68), A process of performing cryptographic communication using the encryption key and decryption key generated by the process is executed (after the authentication sequence shown in FIG. 68, encrypted communication is possible using the generated encryption key and decryption key).

  According to the above configuration, the communication control circuit executes a process of generating an encryption key and a decryption key used for encryption communication when the power is turned on, and a process of performing encryption communication using the encryption key and the decryption key generated by the process Therefore, it is possible to reduce the encryption communication process performed between the first control unit and the second control unit, and to appropriately restart the process in at least one of the first control unit and the second control unit. .

(8-4) In the above (8-1) to (8-3),
In the communication control circuit, it is possible to set a valid period in which the predetermined information can be continuously written in the information storage unit after the authentication with the communication partner has expired (FIG. 66: main control unit transmission buffer write valid time setting) The register 719cF sets an effective time during which the data in the transmission data buffer 613F of the main control unit 161F can be written into the data reception register 713F after the authentication between the main control unit 161F and the payout control unit 171F is cut off. ).

  According to the above configuration, the communication control circuit can set a valid period during which the predetermined information can be written to the information storage unit continuously after the authentication with the communication partner expires. It is possible to reliably store the necessary information even after. For example, even if there is a floating ball (a ball that has not been dropped by being caught between nails of the game area 27F) when authentication with the communication partner is cut off due to power interruption or disconnection, the predetermined information is continuously displayed. By setting an effective period writable in the information storage unit, it is possible to reliably store and protect information that the floating ball has won.

(8-5) A game board (game board 26F) provided with first control means (main control unit 161F),
The first control means includes
It is possible to communicate with the second control means (payout control unit 171F) included in the game frame (front frame 5F),
A user program area (main control storage unit 161cF) capable of storing a user program;
A communication control circuit (communication control circuit 161bF) for transmitting the predetermined information generated by the execution of the user program,
The communication control circuit is
An information storage unit (for example, a transmission data buffer 613F shown in FIG. 65) for storing the predetermined information;
Encryption means for encrypting information stored in the information storage unit (encrypted communication function of the communication control circuit 161bF);
The second control including decryption means for decrypting the encrypted information encrypted by the encryption means (for example, information encrypted by the communication control circuit 161bF is decrypted by the communication control circuit 171bF) Encryption information transmitting means (encrypted communication function of the communication control circuit 161bF) for transmitting to the means.

  According to the above configuration, when returning from the communication disabled state, the communication control circuit does not regenerate and transmit the predetermined information that has not been transmitted due to the communication disabled by executing the user program. Since the predetermined information stored in the information storage unit is transmitted, it is not necessary to execute the user program in order to recover from the incommunicable state, and the control burden can be reduced accordingly.

(8-6) A game frame (front frame 5F) provided with second control means (payout control unit 171F) communicating with the first control means (main control unit 161F) included in the game board (game board 26F). There,
The second control means includes
A user program area (payout control storage unit 171cF) capable of storing a user program;
A communication control circuit (communication control circuit 171bF) for transmitting the predetermined information generated by the execution of the user program,
The communication control circuit is
An information storage unit (for example, a data reception register 713F shown in FIG. 66) for storing the predetermined information;
Encryption means for encrypting information stored in the information storage unit (encrypted communication function of the communication control circuit 171bF);
The first control including decryption means for decrypting the encrypted information encrypted by the encryption means (for example, information encrypted by the communication control circuit 171bF is decrypted by the communication control circuit 161bF). Encryption information transmitting means (encrypted communication function of the communication control circuit 171bF) for transmitting to the means.

  According to the above configuration, when returning from the communication disabled state, the communication control circuit does not regenerate and transmit the predetermined information that has not been transmitted due to the communication disabled by executing the user program. Since the predetermined information stored in the information storage unit is transmitted, it is not necessary to execute the user program in order to recover from the incommunicable state, and the control burden can be reduced accordingly.

(9-1) The present invention is connected to a gaming machine (P stand 2F) that gives a predetermined gaming point when a winning occurs, and the gaming machine is communicatively connected, and uses the valuable value possessed by the player. A gaming system comprising a gaming device (CU3F) that enables gaming on a machine,
The gaming machine is
Game point storage means for storing the game points (FIG. 39: game ball counter);
Count that counts the game points stored in the game point storage means based on an operation for counting the game points to a predetermined score (for example, pressing the “count” button shown in FIG. 47) Count request transmitting means for transmitting a request to the gaming device (FIG. 49: When there is a counting ball payout request at the start of counting, the P stand 2F sends a command of state information response including information of counting request = ON to CU3F To send to
The gaming device is:
Based on the counting request from the counting request transmission means, counting processing means for counting the gaming points to the points (FIG. 49: CU3F is requested when receiving a status information response including information of counting request = ON. The number of counting balls is added to the number of holding balls)
A recording medium receiving means (FIG. 36: a card insertion / discharge port 309F for receiving a card) for receiving a recording medium capable of specifying a valuable value owned by the player;
Recording medium processing means (FIG. 49: CU3F is inserted into the card insertion / ejection slot 309F) for processing the holding points counted by the counting processing means so as to be specified by the recording medium received by the recording medium receiving means. Memorize the number of balls in the card.),
Recording medium return means for returning the recording medium processed by the recording medium processing means (FIG. 49: CU3F returns a card storing the number of possessed balls);
The removal waiting state notifying means for notifying the gaming machine that the recording medium returned by the recording medium returning means is waiting to be removed (FIG. 49: CU3F is ready to return a card when the card can be removed) Information on status OFF and card waiting for card removal is notified to P stand 2F.).

  According to the above configuration, the removal waiting state notifying means notifies the gaming machine that the recording medium returned by the recording medium returning means is waiting for removal, so that the gaming machine removes the recording medium from the player. Can be notified, and forgetting to remove the recording medium can be prevented. In addition, it is possible to call attention to prevent theft caused by forgetting to remove the recording medium.

(9-2) The present invention is communicably connected to a gaming machine (P stand 2F) that gives a predetermined gaming point when a winning occurs, and uses the valuable value possessed by the player to play a game in the gaming machine. A gaming device (CU3F) that enables
Count processing means for counting the gaming points based on the counting request from the gaming machine (FIG. 49: When the CU3F receives a status information response including information of counting request = ON, the requested counting ball And add the number to the number of balls.)
A recording medium receiving means (FIG. 36: a card insertion / discharge port 309F for receiving a card) for receiving a recording medium capable of specifying a valuable value owned by the player;
Recording medium processing means (FIG. 49: CU3F is inserted into the card insertion / ejection slot 309F) for processing the holding points counted by the counting processing means so as to be specified by the recording medium received by the recording medium receiving means. Memorize the number of balls in the card.),
Recording medium return means for returning the recording medium processed by the recording medium processing means (FIG. 49: CU3F returns a card storing the number of possessed balls);
The removal waiting state notifying means for notifying the gaming machine that the recording medium returned by the recording medium returning means is waiting to be removed (FIG. 49: CU3F is ready to return a card when the card can be removed) The P table 2F is notified of information indicating that the state is OFF and the card is waiting to be removed.).

  According to the above configuration, the removal waiting state notifying means notifies the gaming machine that the recording medium returned by the recording medium returning means is waiting for removal, so that the gaming machine removes the recording medium from the player. Can be notified, and forgetting to remove the recording medium can be prevented. In addition, it is possible to call attention to prevent theft caused by forgetting to remove the recording medium.

(9-3) The present invention is connected to a gaming device (CU3F) that enables a game using a valuable value possessed by the player so as to be able to communicate, and a gaming machine that gives a predetermined game point when a winning occurs ( P stand 2F)
Game point storage means for storing the game points (FIG. 39: game ball counter);
Count that counts the game points stored in the game point storage means based on an operation for counting the game points to a predetermined score (for example, pressing the “count” button shown in FIG. 47) Count request transmitting means for transmitting a request to the gaming device (FIG. 49: When there is a counting ball payout request at the start of counting, the P stand 2F sends a command of state information response including information of counting request = ON to CU3F To send to
When the points counted based on the counting request from the counting request transmission means are processed in a manner that can be specified by the recording medium received by the gaming device, and the recording medium is returned, the recording medium is awaiting removal. The notification of being in a state can be received from the gaming device (FIG. 49: When the card P is ready for card removal, the CU 3F notifies the card return preparation state OFF and the card removal waiting ON information from the CU 3F. Receive.)

  According to the above configuration, since the game device receives a notification that the recording medium returned by the recording medium return means is in a removal waiting state, the game machine prompts the player to remove the recording medium. This makes it possible to prevent forgetting to remove the recording medium. In addition, it is possible to call attention to prevent theft caused by forgetting to remove the recording medium.

(9-4) In the above (9-1) to (9-3),
The gaming device includes notification means (for example, a display 312F shown in FIG. 36) for notifying that the recording medium is waiting to be removed.

  According to the above configuration, it is possible to notify the gaming device that the recording medium is waiting to be removed, so that it is possible to prevent forgetting to remove the recording medium.

(9-5) In the above (9-1) to (9-3),
The gaming machine includes display means (for example, a variable display device 278F shown in FIG. 36) for notifying that the recording medium is waiting to be removed based on the notification from the gaming device.

  According to the above configuration, since it is possible to visually notify the gaming machine that the recording medium is waiting to be removed, forgetting to remove the recording medium can be prevented.

(9-6) In the above (9-1) or (9-2),
The removal waiting state notification means notifies the gaming device or a device connected to the gaming machine (for example, a hall computer, a call lamp on P units) that the recording medium is waiting to be removed. .

  According to the above configuration, it is possible to prevent the user from forgetting to remove the recording medium by notifying a device other than the gaming machine or gaming device that the recording medium is waiting to be removed.

(9-7) The present invention relates to a gaming machine (P stand 2F) that gives a predetermined gaming point when a prize is generated, and is connected to the gaming machine in a communicable manner, and uses the valuable value owned by the player. A gaming system comprising a gaming device (CU3F) that enables gaming on a machine,
The gaming device is:
A recording medium receiving means (FIG. 36: a card insertion / discharge port 309F for receiving a card) for receiving a recording medium capable of specifying a valuable value owned by the player;
When the recording medium is received by the recording medium receiving means, a game hall specifying information notifying means (FIG. 42) for notifying the gaming machine of game hall specifying information capable of specifying the game hall in which the gaming device is installed. When the card is received at the card insertion / discharge port 309F, the CU 3F transmits a card insertion notification command including the “store code” added by the security board 325F to the P unit 2F.
The gaming machine is
Game hall identification information storage means for storing the game hall identification information notified by the game hall identification information notification means (FIG. 42: P stand 2F stores “store code” included in the insertion notification command). ,
The game room specifying information newly notified by the game hall specifying information notifying means when the communication is restored after recovering from the communication incapable state where the gaming machine and the gaming device cannot communicate, and the game hall specifying When a recovery request including a “store code” is transmitted from the CU 3F to the game hall specifying information comparing means to be compared with the game hall specifying information stored in the information storage means, the “store code” ”And the stored“ store code ”are determined to match.)
Game prohibition means for prohibiting continuation of the game when the game hall identification information is determined to be inconsistent by the game hall identification information comparison means (P store 2F stores “store code” from CU3F. If the store code does not match, continuation of the game is prohibited.

  According to the above configuration, if the newly notified game hall specifying information and the game hall specifying information stored in the game hall specifying information storage means do not match, the continuation of the game is prohibited. It is possible to prevent fraud in which the store is moved in the stored state.

(9-8) In the above (9-7),
The gaming device is:
A device capable of specifying a game control device (for example, security board 325F shown in FIG. 37) included in the gaming device when the recording medium is received by the recording medium receiving means and when the communication is restored. Device specific information notifying means for notifying the gaming machine of specific information (SC board ID) (FIG. 42: When the card is received at the card insertion / discharge port 309F, the CU 3F receives the “SC board ID” added by the security board 325F. And a card insertion notification command including:
The gaming machine is
Device specifying information storage means for storing the device specifying information notified by the device specifying information notification means (FIG. 42: P base 2F stores “SC board ID” included in the insertion notification command);
When the communication is recovered, the device specifying information comparing unit (P 2F) compares the device specifying information newly notified by the device specifying information notifying unit with the device specifying information stored in the device specifying information storing unit. Further compares “SC board ID” from CU3F with the stored “SC board ID”),
The game prohibiting means prohibits continuation of the game when the device specifying information comparing means determines that the device specifying information is inconsistent (in the case of mismatch, prohibiting continuation of the game).

  According to the above configuration, when the newly notified device identification information and the device identification information stored in the device identification information storage means do not match, the game is prohibited from being continued, so the counting balls are stored in the game medium. Unauthorized movement of the gaming machine in the state can be prevented.

(9-9) In the above (9-7) or (9-8) above,
The gaming machine is
A game hall identification information reading means for reading the game hall identification information added to the game medium used for the game (for example, a sensor is provided in the collection ball passage path of the P stand 2F, and the sensor is provided in the game ball. Read certain identification information (such as surface markings).
The game hall specifying information comparing means includes the game hall specifying information added to the game medium read by the game hall specifying information reading means, and the game hall specifying information stored in the game hall specifying information storage means. Compare (by the read identification information, it is determined whether or not it matches the identification information of the game ball of the own store. To do.)

  According to the above configuration, if the game hall identification information added to the game medium read by the game hall identification information reading means and the game hall identification information stored in the game hall identification information storage means do not match, the game medium It is possible to notify that game balls from other stores are mixed.

  Hereinafter, a second embodiment (hereinafter simply referred to as “embodiment”) will be described with reference to the drawings.

<Configuration of pachinko machine>
First, the configuration of the pachinko machine according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. In each amusement island (not shown) arranged in a plurality of game halls (halls), an enclosed circulation pachinko machine as an example of a game machine (hereinafter also abbreviated as a game machine, a pachinko machine, or a P machine). 2F is attached. Note that a card unit (hereinafter also abbreviated as CU) 3F, which is an example of a gaming device, is installed in a one-to-one correspondence with the P table 2F at a side position on a predetermined side of the P table 2F. Yes.

  The P stand 2F encloses a pachinko ball (game ball) as an example of a game medium inside, and the player operates the hitting operation handle 25F to drive the launch motor 18F (see FIG. 37) and enclose it. Each ball is shot one by one into the game area 27F on the front of the game board 26F so that a game can be played. Specifically, a touch sensor is provided around the hitting operation handle 25F, and the player's hand touches the touch sensor while the player is operating the hitting operation handle 25F. Is detected by a touch sensor, and the firing motor 18F is driven. In this state, the hitting momentum is adjusted according to the amount of turning operation of the hitting operation handle 25F by the player, and the ball is shot into the game area 27F.

  A keyhole 10F is provided above the hitting operation handle 25F, and the front frame 5F (see FIG. 37) is unlocked (for example, rotated clockwise) by inserting a key possessed by a game attendant. The frame 5F is opened, and the glass door 6F is opened by an unlocking operation (for example, counterclockwise rotation) of the glass door (front member) 6F.

  The P stand 2F shown in FIG. 36 is a so-called first type of pachinko machine, and a variable display device (hereinafter also referred to as a special symbol) 278F is provided in the center of the game area 27F. In addition, the game area 27F is provided with a plurality of types of winning holes through which the inserted pachinko balls can be won. In the game area 27F shown in FIG. 36, one large winning opening (variable winning ball apparatus) 271F, three normal winning holes 272F, 273F, 274F, and three start winning holes 275F, 276F, 277F are shown. ing. In particular, the start winning opening 276F is configured by an electric tulip that can be changed between a first state (for example, an open state) that is advantageous to the player and a second state (for example, a closed state) that is disadvantageous to the player. .

  The variable display device 278F variably displays based on the detection signal of the start winning ball won in each start winning opening 275F, 276F, 277F. When the display result of the variable display device is a combination of specific identification information (for example, a glance), a big hit state is established and the big prize opening 271F is opened.

  In addition, since the display result of the variable display device is a combination of predetermined special identification information (for example, a combination of probability variation symbols such as 777) out of a combination of jackpot symbols (grooves), the probability variation big hit state is A probability variation state (probability variation state) in which the occurrence probability of the jackpot is improved after the occurrence of the jackpot state is generated.

  Pachinko balls that have been struck into the game area 27F are won at any of the winning openings or are collected at the out opening 154F without winning. The pachinko balls won in the winning opening and the pachinko balls collected in the out mouth 154F are again returned to the hitting ball launch position through the collection path (not shown) in the P stand 2F. Then, when the player operates the hitting operation handle 25F, the pachinko ball at the hitting position is again shot into the game area 27F.

  The P base 2F causes the indicator 54F extending from the CU 3F to be fitted to the connection surface 54Fa provided on the front surface of the P base 2F by installing the CU 3F in a lateral position. Therefore, a display 54F is provided at a position below the game area 27F in the P stand 2F. The display device 54F is configured by a liquid crystal display device, and displays various effect images linked to the points, the remaining card amount, or the display of the variable display device 278F to the player. Further, the display 54F is fitted to the P base 2F by connecting a connection terminal (not shown) provided on the back surface to a connection terminal 54Fb provided on the connection surface 54Fa of the P base 2F. Thus, if it is the structure which fits the indicator 54F of CU3F to the connection surface 54Fa of P stand 2F, CU3F and P stand 2F can be connected more strongly and fraud can be prevented. Furthermore, fraud can be further prevented by preventing the connection and locking with the display 54F from being released unless the glass door 6F or the lower door provided with the hitting ball operating handle 25F is opened. As shown in FIG. 36, the display 54F is not limited to the structure formed integrally with the CU 3F and fitted to the connection surface 54Fa of the P base 2F. The display 54F is formed independently of the CU 3F and is formed on the front surface of the P base 2F. The structure which can be attached may be sufficient.

  In addition, a game ball number display for displaying the number of game balls is provided above the connection surface 54Fa of the P stand 2F. The game ball number display 29F is composed of a 7-segment LED display and is controlled by a payout control unit 171F described later. The number of game balls display 29F displays the number of game balls to be described later, an error number of an error that has occurred, and the like. Note that the game ball number display 29F is not limited to a 7-segment LED display, and may be a liquid crystal display, an organic EL display, or other display.

  Furthermore, a counting button 28F for counting the gaming balls to the holding balls is provided on the left side of the gaming ball number display 29F on the P stand 2F. As will be described in detail later, when the count button 28F is pressed once, for example, 100 balls are counted from the game ball to the holding ball, and when pressed for a long period of time (long press), the game ball currently held is considered. Then, the number of game balls is counted from the number of balls corresponding to the number of balls pressed. Further, the counting speed is further improved when a card return operation is performed, and a smooth card return process is realized.

  Thus, since the counting button 28F is provided on the P base side, the operability of the player sitting facing the P base can be improved as compared with the case where the counting button 28F is provided on the CU side. In addition, the P platform 2F is provided with speakers 270F for outputting music data to be reproduced in accordance with the effects displayed on the variable display device 278F at the upper right position and the upper left position of the game area 27F. Note that the position and number of speakers are not limited to the configuration shown in FIG. 36, and the position and number may be changed as necessary.

  As described above, the pachinko machine 2F is a game machine that performs game control like the pachinko machine 1 described above as an enclosed circulation pachinko machine, and the basic game control and effect control are performed by the pachinko machine 2F. Controls similar to those of the gaming machine 1 (for example, variable display control based on hold storage information, big hit game control based on hold storage information, and probability change control based on hold storage information) are performed.

<Configuration of card unit>
Next, the configuration of the CU3F according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. This CU3F is a visitor card (hereinafter also referred to as a general card) having a prepaid function, which is a game recording medium issued to a general player who has not registered as a member, and a member who has registered as a member in the game hall. Receive a membership card, which is a game recording medium issued to a player. Visitor cards and membership cards are composed of IC cards.

  The CU3F that accepts these cards has a function of converting the game value (for example, the card balance, the number of possessions, the number of accumulated balls, etc.) possessed by the player specified by the record information of the card into “game ball data”. . In the P stand 2F, a ball game corresponding to the number of balls specified by the game ball data is made possible. That is, “game ball data” is data indicating the number of remaining fireable shots. In the following description, “game ball data” is simply referred to as “game ball” in the same manner as a stored ball and a holding ball.

  On the front side of the CU3F, a bill insertion slot 302F for inserting bills, a protruding portion 305F formed to project forward from the front of the device, a card insertion / discharge port 309F for inserting a membership card or a visitor card, etc. Is provided. The member card or visitor card inserted into the card insertion / discharge port 309F is received by a card reader / writer (not shown), and information recorded on the card is read.

  The front side of the CU3F is specified by the indicator 312F and the member card ID (hereinafter also simply referred to as a card ID or C-ID) recorded on the member card when the member card is received and the member card ID. An infrared signal is received by an IR (Infrared) photosensitive unit 320F from a replay button 319F for executing a replay game using the number of stored balls and a remote control (not shown) possessed by an attendant of the game hall and converted into an electronic signal. An IR light receiving unit for converting and outputting is provided.

  The display 312F displays a prepaid balance (hereinafter also referred to as a card balance or simply a balance) recorded on the inserted game recording medium (card), and displays the number of game balls and other various information. In addition to being able to display, the surface is configured with a transparent touch panel, and various operations can be input by touching various display items displayed on the display unit of the display 312F with a finger.

  When the replay button 319F is operated and the number of possessed balls acquired by the player is recorded on the inserted card, a part of the number of possessed balls is withdrawn and converted into a game ball, and the converted game ball Based on this, it becomes possible to play a game by the P stand 2F. On the other hand, if the inserted card is a membership card and the number of possessions is not recorded and the stored balls are recorded in the hall management computer, etc., a part of the stored balls is withdrawn and converted into game balls Thus, a game by the P stand 2F becomes possible. That is, when both the stored ball and the holding point are stored in association with the inserted card, the holding ball is withdrawn preferentially. In addition to the replay button 319F, a dedicated ball payout button for withdrawing the ball may be provided, and the replay button 319F may be a button dedicated to the withdrawal of the stored ball.

  Here, the “storing ball” is a ball deposited in the hall with a ball acquired before the previous day, and becomes a game ball by paying out the saving ball. The storage ball is a game medium deposited in a game hall, and is generally managed by a hall management computer or other management computer installed in the game hall.

  “Number of possessed balls” is the number of balls that the player possesses as a result of the player playing the game with the gaming machine on the card, and the number of balls that have not yet been deposited in the game hall That is. Generally, the number of balls that the player has acquired on the day of the game hall is called “mochidama”, and the number of balls that the player has acquired before the previous day and that has been deposited in the amusement hall is “save ball”. Say.

  The “game ball” is data on the number of balls that can be fired by the gaming machine. As described above, this data is generated in exchange for withdrawing the balance of the prepaid card, the holding ball, or the stored ball.

  Note that the number of possessed balls may be managed by a management device for managing the number of possessed balls set in the game hall. In short, the difference between “sold balls” and “mochidama” is the number of balls that have been deposited in the amusement hall as a result of a storage operation for depositing in the amusement hall, or is still deposited in the amusement hall. It is a point whether it is the number of balls of the stage which is not.

  In this embodiment, the stored ball data is not recorded directly on the membership card, but is stored in association with the membership card number in the hall server 801F (see FIG. 38) installed in the game hall such as the hall management computer. It is comprised so that the corresponding storage ball can be searched based on. On the other hand, Mochitama records directly on the card. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and both may be stored in the hall server 801F in association with the card number. In the case of a visitor card, Mochitama is recorded directly on the visitor card. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the ball may be stored in the hall server 801F in association with the card number. When storing the hall server 801F in association with the card number, data that can specify the time stored in the hall server 801F may be written on the card (member card, visitor card) and discharged. Also, the prepaid balance is directly written on a card (member card, visitor card) and discharged.

  Note that the timing for storing the holding ball in the card (member card, visitor card) or the hall server 801F is, for example, stored in real time every time the counting button 28F is operated and the counting process is performed. It is conceivable that the timing is such that it is stored or stored in a lump when the card is returned.

  Also, when the player finishes the game and returns the card from the CU3F, the holding ball stored in the CU3F is temporarily stored as a stored ball in the hall server 801F, and the date when the player receives the return of the card When the card is inserted into the same or another CU3F again on the same day, only the possession balls for the day that are once stored as accumulated balls are stored again in the CU3F, and the game balls are added within the range of the possession balls. You may be able to do it.

  The banknote inserted into the banknote insertion slot 302F is taken in by a currency discriminator (not shown), and its authenticity and banknote type are identified.

  An IR (Infrared) photosensitive unit (also referred to as an IR light receiving unit) 320F, a ball lending button (hereinafter also referred to as a lending button) 321F, and a card return button 322F are further provided on the front side of the CU3F. The IR photosensitive unit 320F is an IR photosensitive unit that receives an infrared signal from a remote controller (not shown) possessed by an attendant of a game arcade, converts the infrared signal into an electronic signal, and outputs the electronic signal. The ball lending button 321F is a button for performing an operation (conversion operation to a game ball) for withdrawing the balance recorded on the inserted card and using it for a game by the P stand 2F. The card return button 322F is operated when the player ends the game, and the number of game balls determined at the end of the game on the inserted card (the number of balls at the time of card insertion-the number of conversions to game balls + count) This is an operation button for memorizing and discharging the number of possessed balls counted by the operation.

<Configuration of card unit and pachinko machine>
FIG. 37 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the card unit and the pachinko machine. With reference to FIG. 37, the outline of the control circuit of CU3F and P stand 2F is demonstrated.

  The CU 3F is provided with a CU control unit 323F composed of a microcomputer or the like. Although not shown, the CU control unit 323F includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) as a control center, a ROM (Read Only Memory) storing a program for operating the CPU, control data, and the like. A RAM (Random Access Memory) functioning as an area, an input / output interface for maintaining signal consistency with peripheral devices, and the like are provided.

  The CU control unit 323F is provided with an external communication unit (not shown) for communicating with a hall management computer and a hall server 801F (see FIG. 38) for security management, A security board (SC board) 325F is provided for communicating with the payout control board 17F while ensuring security. Note that the CU control unit 323F may be provided on the security board 325F, or the CU control unit 323F may be provided on a board different from the security board 325F. The CU3F is provided with a connection portion (not shown) to the P stand 2F side, and the P stand 2F is provided with a connection portion (not shown) to the CU3F side. These connection parts are constituted by connectors, for example.

  The security board 325F on the CU side and the payout control board 17F on the P platform side are connected to each other via this connector and connection wiring so as to be communicable. The security board 325F is provided with a communication control IC 325aF for controlling communication between the security board 325F and the payout control board 17F, and a security chip (SC) 325bF for monitoring the security of the P base 2F. Although not shown, the security chip (SC) 325bF includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) as a control center, a ROM (Read Only Memory) storing a program for operating the CPU, control data, and the like. A RAM (Random Access Memory) functioning as a work area, an input / output interface for maintaining signal consistency with peripheral devices, and the like are provided. Further, the SC 325bF includes a fraud detection unit 1325F, and the fraud detection unit 1325F performs fraud detection by monitoring the game ball addition request information notified from the CU control unit 323F to the P stand 2F. The server 800F (see FIG. 38) is notified. Also, the setting value (constant) for fraud detection is notified from the key management server 800F as board control information. Although not shown, the communication control IC 325aF includes a central processing unit (CPU) as a control center, a read only memory (ROM) that stores programs and control data for operating the CPU, and a work area for the CPU. A functioning RAM (Random Access Memory), an input / output interface for maintaining signal consistency with peripheral devices, and the like are provided.

  Each RAM of the CU control unit 323F, the security chip (SC) 325bF, and the communication control IC 325aF is configured by a backup RAM whose stored data is not erased even when the power is turned off. Note that an EEPROM may be used instead of the backup RAM.

  The authenticity and type of the banknote are identified by the above-described money classifier, and the identification result signal is input to the CU control unit 323F. When the IR photosensitive unit 320F receives infrared rays emitted from a remote controller owned by a game attendant, the received light signal is input to the CU control unit 323F. The card reader / writer reads the information recorded on the inserted card, and the read information is input to the CU control unit 323F, and the data to be written to the inserted card from the CU control unit 323F to the card reader / writer. When transmitted, the card reader / writer writes the data to the inserted card. The card recording information includes a card ID. The CU control unit 323F stores the card ID read by the card reader / writer until the game ends.

  The CU control unit 323F manages and stores the player's possession balls when the player is playing. Data such as a balance or the number of game balls is output from the CU control unit 323F to the display control unit 350F, and is converted into display data by the display control unit 350F. The display data converted by the display control unit 350F is output to the display 312F provided on the front surface of the CU 3F and the display 54F disposed on the front surface of the P platform 2F as shown in FIG. Images corresponding to the display data are displayed on the display 312F and the display 54F. Further, when the player operates the touch panel provided on the surface of the display 312F, the operation signal is input to the CU control unit 323F via the display control unit 350F. When the player operates the ball lending button 321F, the operation signal is input to the CU control unit 323F. Note that the ball lending button 321F is not limited to the configuration provided on the CU 3F, and may be configured to be provided on the P base 2F and to input an operation signal to the CU control unit 323F. When the player operates the replay button 319F, the operation signal is input to the CU control unit 323F. When the player operates the card return button 322F, the operation signal is input to the CU control unit 323F.

  The P base 2F includes a main control board 16F that controls the progress of the game of the P base 2F, a payout control board 17F that manages and stores game balls, and a launch motor 18F that drives and controls the launch motor 18F based on commands from the payout control board 17F. A control board 31F, a variable display device 278F (see FIG. 36), and the like are provided. In FIG. 37, a display control board (also referred to as an effect control board) that controls display of the variable display device based on a command from the main control board 16F is omitted.

  The main control board 16F is provided on the game board 26F. The main control board 16F is equipped with a game control microcomputer which is a main control unit 161F. The game control microcomputer includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) as a control center, a ROM (Read Only Memory) storing a program for operating the CPU and control data, and a RAM (RAM) functioning as a work area of the CPU. Random Access Memory) and an input / output interface for maintaining signal consistency with peripheral devices. The main controller 161F is connected to a winning sensor 162F and a radio wave sensor 163F provided on the game board 26F. For example, a field-programmable gate array (FPGA) substrate is used for the game control microcomputer of the main controller 161F. The game board 26F is further provided with a display control board (effect control board) for controlling the variable display device 278F and the like.

  The payout control board 17F is provided in the front frame 5F (game frame). On the payout control board 17F, a payout control microcomputer which is a payout control unit 171F is mounted. The payout control microcomputer includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) as a control center, a ROM (Read Only Memory) storing a program for operating the CPU and control data, and a RAM (RAM) functioning as a work area of the CPU. Random Access Memory) and an input / output interface for maintaining signal consistency with peripheral devices. For example, an FPGA board is used for the payout control microcomputer of the payout control unit 171F.

  Also, for the payout control board 17F, a shot ball detection switch (not shown), an out ball detection switch 701F, a foul ball detection switch 330F, a counting button 28F, a radio wave sensor 173F, a glass door opening detection switch 12F, a front frame opening detection switch 13F is provided in an electrically connected state. The radio wave sensor 173F is for detecting an illegal act of illegally transmitting radio waves and mainly turning on the ball raising switch (upper) 41aF. A detection signal of the radio wave sensor 173F is input to the payout control unit 171F via an input port (not shown) of the payout control board 17F. As described above, the ball raising switch (upper) 41aF detects the launch of a game ball by changing from on to off, and the payout control unit 171F subtracts “1” from the number of game balls based on the detection. To do. Therefore, when the ball raising switch (upper) 41aF is always turned on due to unauthorized radio waves, the number of game balls is not subtracted no matter how many balls are fired. Such radio fraud is detected by the radio wave sensor 173F. In addition, there is a possibility that not only the ball raising switch (upper) 41aF but also the shot ball detection switch may be subject to fraud by radio waves. In other words, when only the ball raising switch (upper) 41aF is always turned on by the improper radio wave, the shot of the ball is not detected, while the ball that has actually been shot is collected and detected by the shot detection switch The number of fired balls and recovered balls (out-balls) is wrinkled, an abnormality is detected, and the fraud detection information “number of fired / OUT mismatched balls” is transmitted from the P stand 2F to the CU 3F. Become. However, by sending unauthorized radio waves to the fired ball detection switch to make it undetectable, there is a problem that the fraud detection information of the “number of fired / OUT mismatched balls” is not transmitted from the P stand 2F to the CU 3F. . In this embodiment, since the radio wave sensor 173F also detects the unauthorized radio wave transmitted to such a shot ball detection switch, the above-described inconvenience can be prevented.

  The number of times the glass door opening detection switch 12F and the front frame opening detection switch 13F are opened is counted by a counter not shown. The counting counter is equipped with a CPU, ROM, RAM, etc., and can be operated by a backup power supply even when the power supply of the P stand 2F is interrupted. And the count value can be transmitted to the payout control unit 171F. Here, the backup power source is, for example, a capacitor or a storage battery provided in the P stand 2F.

  Moreover, you may display the opening frequency etc. of the glass door 6F or the front frame 5F on the game ball number indicator 29F connected to the payout control part 171F. Specifically, the game ball number display 29F displays the number of times the glass door 6F and the front frame 5F are opened according to the display control signal from the payout control unit 171F.

  Main control board 16F to payout control board 17F, main chip ID (main control security chip ID), winning opening information, round information, connection confirmation signal, winning detection signal, starting winning opening winning information, error information, symbol confirmation Number of times, jackpot information, manufacturer-specific jackpot information, etc. are transmitted.

  The main chip ID is a chip ID recorded on the main control board 16F of the P base 2F, and is information transmitted to the payout control board 17F when the power of the P base 2F is turned on. The winning opening information is information including the type of winning opening (start winning opening, ordinary winning opening, large winning opening) and the number of winning balls (the number of balls to be paid out when a game ball enters the winning opening). This is transmitted to the payout control board 17F when the table 2F is powered on. For example, in the prize opening information, the type of the prize opening includes three balls in the large prize opening 271F (see FIG. 36), and information on requesting the payout control board 17F to pay 300 balls as the number of winning balls, Each of 275F and start winning opening 277F (see FIG. 36) includes information for entering one ball and requesting the payout control board 17F to pay out 20 balls as the number of winning balls. In addition, after a ball enters a winning port such as the normal winning port 272F and winning port information requesting the paying out of the winning ball is transmitted to the payout control board 17F, the authentication with the communication partner is disconnected due to power interruption or disconnection. In such a case, the payout control board 17F has already received the winning opening information, and the winning ball can be paid out based on the winning opening information. However, after the authentication with the communication partner is cut off due to power interruption or disconnection, etc., if a floating ball caught in a nail or the like of the game area 27F and not falling enters a winning opening such as the normal winning opening 272F, payout The control board 17F cannot receive the winning opening information and cannot pay out the winning ball. For this reason, the prize mouth information is continuously displayed so that even if the floating ball enters the prize opening such as the normal prize opening 272F after the authentication with the communication partner is cut off due to power interruption or disconnection, the prize ball can be paid out. An effective period in which the payout control board 17F can receive (write to the information storage unit) is set. As a result, even if the floating ball enters the winning opening such as the normal winning opening 272F after the authentication with the communication partner is cut off due to power interruption or disconnection, the payout control board 17F displays the winning opening information if it is within the valid period. It is possible to receive award balls based on floating balls. The round information is information on the number of rounds when a big hit is made, and is transmitted to the payout control board 17F when the power of the P unit 2F is turned on.

  The connection confirmation signal is a signal for confirming that the main control board 16F and the payout control board 17F are connected, and a signal of a predetermined voltage is constantly supplied from the main control board 16F to the payout control board 17F. The payout control board 17F is configured to control the operation on the condition that the payout control board 17F receives the predetermined voltage signal. The winning detection signal is a detection signal of a pachinko ball that has won a winning opening other than the starting winning opening. Upon receiving this detection signal, the payout control board 17F performs control to add the number of balls to be given to one winning ball to the number of game balls and the number of added balls.

  The start winning award winning information is information indicating that a pachinko ball has won a winning winning opening 1 or a starting winning opening 2. The error information is information for notifying the payout control board 17F that an error has occurred while the main control board 16F is performing game control.

  The symbol determination number of times is information on symbols determined as display results of the variable display device for winnings at each start winning opening.

  The jackpot information is information indicating that a jackpot has occurred. The breakdown includes common jackpot information indicating a jackpot common to each manufacturer and manufacturer-specific jackpot information indicating a manufacturer-specific jackpot. The common jackpot information is a jackpot commonly used by each gaming machine manufacturer, such as 15 round jackpots, and includes probability variation information when a probability change occurs with the jackpot. When the time-short state (control state for shortening the variable display time of the variable display device) occurs, the time-shortage information is included. The manufacturer-specific big hit is a big hit state that is adopted only by a certain gaming machine manufacturer, such as sudden probability change (surprise).

  A health check command and a prize ball number acceptance command are transmitted from the payout control board 17F to the main control board 16F. The health check command is a command for checking whether or not the main control board 16F is operating normally. The prize ball number acceptance command is a command indicating that the additional number of balls has been accepted.

  An out ball detection signal is input from the out ball detection switch 701F to the payout control board 17F. The payout control board 17F to which this out ball detection signal has been input subtracts and updates the number of in-game balls (the number of floating balls floating in the game area 27F), as will be described later. In the payout control board 17F to which the foul ball detection signal is input from the foul ball detection switch 330F, as will be described later, the addition ball number and the game ball number are added and updated, and the in-game ball number is subtracted and updated. A shot detection signal is input from the shot detection switch to the payout control board 17F. The payout control board 17F, to which this shot ball detection signal has been input, subtracts and updates the number of balls in game.

  The security board 325F of the CU 3F and the payout control board 17F of the P stand 2F are electrically connected, and a recovery request, a recovery request 2, a communication start request, Various commands such as a communication end request, a status information request, a card insertion notification, a card return notification, and a communication test request are transmitted.

  The recovery request is a command that requests the P unit 2F to notify the recovery information. The payout control board 17F receives the recovery request and notifies the CU 3F of the recovery information of the P base 2F. The command of the recovery request 2 notifies the added recovery information to the P unit 2F. The communication start request is a command for requesting the P base 2F to start communication. The payout control board 17F receives the communication start request and responds to the CU3F with the communication start. The communication end request is a command for requesting the P unit 2F to end communication. The payout control board 17F receives the communication end request and returns a communication end response to the CU3F.

  The status information request is a command for requesting notification of status information to the P platform 2F. The payout control board 17F receives the status information request and notifies the CU 3F of the status information of the P platform 2F. The card insertion notification is a command for notifying the P unit 2F that a card has been inserted. The payout control board 17F receives the card insertion notification and responds to the CU3F that the card has been inserted. The card return notification is a command for notifying the P unit 2F that the card has been returned. The payout control board 17F receives a card return notification and responds to the CU3F that the card has been returned. The communication test request is a command for notifying test data to the P base 2F. The payout control board 17F receives the communication test request and returns test data to the CU 3F.

  Various responses such as a recovery response, a recovery response 2, a communication start response, a communication end response, a status information response, a card insertion response, a card return response, and a communication test response are transmitted from the payout control board 17F to the security board 325F.

  The front frame 5F (game frame) is provided with a launch control board 31F and a launch motor 18F. The firing control board 31F emits an excitation output to the firing motor 18F when an input signal of a touch ring (hereinafter also referred to as a touch sensor) for detecting that the player is touching the hitting operation handle 25F is input, The firing motor 18F is driven.

  A firing control signal and a firing permission signal are output from the dispensing control board 17F to the firing control board 31F. Upon receiving this, the firing control board 31F outputs a signal for exciting the firing motor 18F. Thereby, the pachinko ball is in a state of being bullet-launched into the game area 27F.

  A display 54F extending from the CU 3F is provided on the front surface of the P table 2F. The display 54F receives display data from the display control unit 350F of the CU3F and displays a display screen. As described above, in the present embodiment, the display 54F extending from the CU3F provided on the front surface of the P table 2F is configured to be controlled on the CU3F side, but instead, on the P table 2F side. Even if the display 54F is provided and display control can be performed from the CU3F side, the display 54F is provided on the P base 2F side and the display control board is provided on the P base 2F side so that display control can be performed on the P base 2F side But you can. In this case, the display control board controls the display of the display 54F based on a command from the payout control unit 171F.

<Notification processing of operation / non-operation information from pachinko machine>
FIG. 38 is an explanatory diagram for explaining a process of notifying operation / non-operation information from a pachinko machine. 38 is connected to the CU 3F, the hall server 801F, the key management server 800F, and the history management center 800AF. Here, the key management server 800F is a key management server that stores the SID and authentication key of the CU communication control unit in association with each serial ID (hereinafter also referred to as SID) of the electronic component inside the CU3F. is there. The key management server 800F is a server that can communicate with the main control board 16F. The machine history management center 800AF associates the information of the front frame 5F with the security chip ID of the semiconductor chip provided on the payout control board 17F connected to the front frame 5F, and the semiconductor provided on the main control board 16F connected to the game board 26F. It includes a history management system that stores information on the game board 26F in association with the security chip ID of the chip and manages the history of the front frame 5F and the game board 26F. The security board 325F is connected in parallel to the payout control unit 171F via the PIF circuit 326F which is a parallel interface circuit.

  When the manufacturer (game machine manufacturer) ships the front frame 5F and the game board 26F and installs them in the hall, when the P stand 2F is operated, as shown in FIG. 38, the game machine installation information (operation information) is obtained from the P stand 2F. ) Is notified to the machine history management center 800AF. Specifically, the gaming machine installation information (operation information) notified to the machine history management center 800AF includes, for example, the security chip ID of the semiconductor chip provided on the payout control board 17F, and the security of the semiconductor chip provided on the main control board 16F. The chip ID and the security chip ID of the opponent when the front frame 5F and the game board 26F are combined are included. Note that the security chip ID cannot be changed or deleted after registration in the history management center 800AF.

  On the other hand, shipment information of the front frame 5F and the game board 26F shipped by the manufacturer is input to the machine history management center 800AF. Specifically, the shipping information is input to the machine history management center 800AF from a terminal connected to the machine history management center 800AF via a communication line or the like. The machine history management center 800AF stores the input shipping information of the front frame 5F and the game board 26F in association with the security chip ID of the semiconductor chip provided therein, and notifies the stored information and the P table 2F. Is compared with the installed gaming machine information. The machine history management center 800AF notifies the abnormality if it is abnormal as a result of the collation. As an error notification, for example, an error notification is performed by an error notification lamp or a display 312F, or an error notification signal indicating that an error has occurred is transmitted to the hall management computer or hall server 801F (in this case, Error notification may be performed by the hall management computer or the hall server 801F). As a result, a predetermined notification that prompts an artificial response by a staff member is performed. The information stored in association with the front chip 5F and the game board 26F in association with the security chip ID cannot be changed after the shipping information is registered in the machine history management center 800AF. Further, it is desirable that the shipping information of the front frame 5F and the game board 26F is registered in the machine history management center 800AF one day before installation in the hall.

  Similarly, when the front frame 5F and the game board 26F (only one of the front frame 5F or the game board 26F) installed in the hall is removed and stored in the warehouse, the P stand 2F becomes inactive. As shown in FIG. 38, the non-operating information is notified from the P unit 2F to the machine history management center 800AF. Specifically, the non-operating information notified to the machine history management center 800AF is information that the front chip 5F of the P platform 2F and the security chip ID of the game board 26F that have been installed are not transmitted.

  On the other hand, the history information management center 800AF receives the removal information of the front frame 5F and the game board 26F removed by the hall or warehouse company. Then, the history management center 800AF stores the input information on the removal of the front frame 5F and the game board 26F in association with the security chip ID of the semiconductor chip provided to each of them, and notifies the stored information and the P table 2F. Is checked against the inactive information. The machine history management center 800AF notifies the abnormality if it is abnormal as a result of the collation.

  Further, when the second-hand dealer resells the game board 26F to another hall and installs it in the hall, when the P stand 2F is operated, the game machine installation information (operation information) is obtained from the P stand 2F as shown in FIG. The history management center 800AF is notified. Specifically, in the gaming machine installation information (operation information) notified to the machine history management center 800AF, for example, the security chip ID of the semiconductor chip provided on the main control board 16F, the security chip ID of the combined front frame 5F, etc. It is included.

  On the other hand, movement information (resale information) of the game board 26F resold by the secondhand dealer is input to the machine history management center 800AF. The machine history management center 800AF stores the input movement information of the game board 26F in association with the security chip ID of the semiconductor chip provided in the game board 26F, and is notified from the stored information and the P base 2F. Check against game machine installation information. The machine history management center 800AF notifies the abnormality if it is abnormal as a result of the collation.

  Furthermore, when the front frame 5F and the game board 26F (only one of the front frame 5F or the game board 26F) installed by the disposal contractor are discarded, the P stand 2F is in a non-operating state. Thus, the non-operating information is notified from the P base 2F to the machine history management center 800AF. Specifically, the non-operating information notified to the machine history management center 800AF is the security chip of the front frame 5F and the game board 26F (only one of the front frame 5F or the game board 26F) of the installed P stand 2F. This information is obtained when the ID is not transmitted.

  On the other hand, removal information of the front frame 5F and the game board 26F (only one of the front frame 5F or the game board 26F) discarded by the discarder is input to the machine history management center 800AF. Then, the history management center 800AF stores the input information on the removal of the front frame 5F and the game board 26F in association with the security chip ID of the semiconductor chip provided to each of them, and notifies the stored information and the P table 2F. Is checked against the inactive information. The machine history management center 800AF notifies the abnormality if it is abnormal as a result of the collation.

<Transmission / reception mode between card unit side and pachinko machine side>
Next, FIG. 39 is a schematic diagram showing main data among various data stored on the CU 3F side and the P stand 2F side and the transmission / reception mode thereof. With reference to FIG. 39, main data of various data stored on each of the CU3F side (card unit side) and the P stand 2F side (pachinko machine side) and its transmission / reception mode will be described.

  In this embodiment, the fluctuation of the number of game balls is calculated on the P stand 2F side, and the current latest game ball number is stored and managed. The current number of game balls is also calculated and stored on the CU3F side, but the number of game balls is based on information transmitted from the P stand 2F side. On the other hand, the number of balls (the number of cards), the number of balls, and the card balance (balance) are managed and stored on the CU3F side.

  FIG. 39 shows the RAM storage data provided in the CU control unit 323F on the CU3F side and the RAM storage data mounted on the payout control board 17F on the P stand 2F side. First, when the power is turned on for the first time when the P platform (pachinko machine) 2F and the CU (card unit) 3F are electrically connected for the first time after they are installed in the game hall, the payout control board 17F on the P platform 2F side Receives the main chip ID (main control security chip ID) from the main control board 16F, transmits the main chip ID to the CU3F side, and also issues the payout chip ID ( The payout control security chip ID) is transmitted to the CU3F side.

  On the CU3F side, the transmitted main chip ID and payout chip ID are stored. Next, the connection time, that is, the data at the time when the communication is started after the CU3F side and the P stand 2F side are connected is transmitted from the CU 3F side to the P stand 2F side, and the transmitted connection time is transmitted on the P stand 2F side. Remember.

  In this state, three pieces of information of the main chip ID, the payout chip ID, and the connection time identified on the CU3F side are stored on the CU3F side and the P stand 2F side. When the power is turned on thereafter, the three pieces of information, that is, the main chip ID, the payout chip ID, and the previous connection time data are transmitted from the P base 2F side to the CU3F side.

  On the CU3F side, the transmitted data and the already stored data are collated, and it is determined whether or not the same P stand 2F as that of the previous time is connected. The connection time data is transmitted from the CU3F side to the P unit 2F side by sending new connection time data from the CU3F side when communication between the CU3F side and the P unit 2F side is started. Time data is stored on the P platform 2F side.

  Each time a command and response is transmitted between the CU 3F side and the P base 2F side, the serial number is incremented by “1”, and the serial number is stored on the CU 3F side and the P base 2F side. This serial number is a communication number for confirming whether or not communication is properly performed by updating the number every time data is transmitted / received between the CU 3F and the P base 2F. CU3F (primary station) counts up (+1) and transmits the serial number received at the time of transmission, and P-unit 2F (secondary station) transmits the received serial number as it is. Note that the CU3F does not count up the serial number at the time of retransmission, and makes no response if the serial number continuity is not established. The previous last transmission serial number is a communication number updated at the previous transmission / reception and is a number to be backed up.

  A specific mode of serial number backup in the CU 3F and the P stand 2F in this embodiment will be described. The CU 3F counts up the serial number (+1) and transmits the command to the P platform 2F. The P base 2F backup-stores the serial number of the received command as the previous last transmission serial number. Then, the P base 2F transmits a response to the received command to the CU 3F while keeping the serial number of the received command. The CU3F backs up and stores the serial number of the received response as the previous last transmission serial number. The CU 3F and the P base 2F repeat such processing every time a response from the P base 2F is transmitted to the CU 3F.

  For example, a certain command is transmitted from the CU3F side to the P stand 2F side, and the serial number n at that time is transmitted. When the response is returned from the P base 2F side to the CU3F side, the P base 2F side stores the transmitted serial number n as the last final transmission serial number and transmits the response with the serial number n as it is. On the CU3F side, the returned serial number n is stored as the last final transmission serial number. Next, when a certain command is transmitted from the CU 3F side to the P stand 2F side, the serial number is incremented (+1) and the serial number n + 1 is transmitted. When the response is returned from the P base 2F side to the CU3F side, the P base 2F side stores the transmitted serial number n + 1 as the last final transmission serial number, and transmits the response while maintaining the serial number n + 1. On the P base 2F side, since the serial number n + 1 transmitted is incremented by 1 from the serial number n of the previous last transmission serial number that has already been stored, it is determined that data communication has been performed normally, and the response is sent to the P base 2F side. Reply to the CU3F side. On the CU3F side, the serial number n + 1 returned is incremented by 1 from the serial number n of the previous last transmission serial number that has already been stored. Therefore, it is determined that data communication has been performed normally, and the serial number is sent next time a command is sent. Count up (+1) and send the command of serial number n + 2 to the P platform 2F side.

  The latest game machine information (game machine information being counted) is transmitted from the P machine 2F side to the CU 3F side. This latest game table information is stored in the latest game table information storage area of the RAM in the payout control unit 171F (see FIG. 37) on the P table 2F side. Specifically, information on the added ball number counter, information on the subtracted ball number counter, and information on the counted ball number counter are included. The number of game balls is not included in the latest game table information, and is transmitted from the P table 2F side to the CU 3F side as the count value of the game ball number counter as will be described later.

  Information on these counters is collectively transmitted to the CU side as a response. The added ball number counter is a counter that counts the added ball number. The added ball is the sum of “the number of winning balls × the number of winning balls” and “the number of back balls”. The back ball is a foul ball. That is, the addition ball indicates the number that the addition ball counter should add to the game ball. The subtraction ball number counter is a counter that counts the number of subtraction balls. The subtraction ball is the “number of fired balls”. That is, the number of balls detected by the output change from on to off of the ball raising switch (upper) 41aF. Note that the “number of balls to be subtracted” does not include the “number of balls to be counted”. The counting ball counter is a counter that counts the counting balls. The counting ball is “the number of balls converted from game balls to holding balls by the counting operation”.

  When a back ball is generated, the back ball is returned to the hitting ball launching position and the ball hitting operation is performed with the ball feeding to the hitting ball launching position being stopped so that all the back balls are fired into the game area. Even if a back ball is generated, the back ball may be controlled not to be counted as an additional ball. In this case, “addition balls = number of winning balls × number of winning balls”.

  For example, when a pachinko ball placed in the game area 27F wins and the winning information is transmitted from the main control board 16F to the payout control board 17F, the adding ball to which the gaming ball is added based on the winning information The added ball number counter counts the number, and the value (added ball number) of the added ball number counter is transmitted from the P stand 2F side to the CU 3F side. Moreover, the subtraction ball counter counts the number of shot balls as the number of subtraction balls based on the output change from on to off of the ball raising switch (upper) 41aF due to the pachinko ball being shot in the game area 27F, The value of the subtraction ball number counter (the number of subtraction balls) is transmitted from the P stand 2F side to the CU3F side.

  Alternatively, the payout control unit 171F counts the number of game balls as the number of counting balls by pressing the counting button 28F, and transmits the value of the counting ball number counter (counting ball number) from the P stand 2F side to the CU3F side.

  On the P stand 2F side, every time the values of the addition ball counter, the subtraction ball counter, and the counting ball counter are transmitted to the CU 3F side, the count values are stored in the previous game machine information storage area (the RAM of the payout control unit 171F). Etc.) are stored (rewritten) as backup data, and the values of the added ball counter, subtracted ball counter, and counted ball counter as the latest game table information are cleared to 0 (excluding the game ball counter). In the present embodiment, “clear” has the same meaning as “initialization”.

  As a result, in the storage area of the previous game table information (game table information transmitted immediately before), data of the number of added balls, the number of subtraction balls, and the number of counted balls, which are the game table information transmitted to the CU3F side immediately before, are backed up. Stored as data. When the latest gaming machine information is not transmitted from the P stand 2F side to the CU 3F side, this backup data includes not only the value of each counter of this time but also the value of each previous counter that has not been sent at the next transmission. It is intended to enable transmission.

  In addition, the payout control board 17F updates the value of the game ball counter in response to the occurrence of a prize, the firing of a ball, the occurrence of a back ball, and the occurrence of a counting ball (conversion from a game ball to a holding ball), The updated value of the game ball counter is transmitted to the CU3F side as the number of game balls.

  On the CU3F side, in the accumulated data storage area in the RAM, the number of game balls, the number of cards held (hereinafter also simply referred to as the number of balls), the number of stored balls, the balance, the total number of added balls (total number of added balls), the total The number of subtracted balls (cumulative number of subtracted balls) and the number of balls held at the time of card insertion are stored. The number of cards possessed is the number of balls obtained by subtracting the number of possessed balls paid out (the number of balls converted from the number of cards possessed to the number of game balls) from the number of balls possessed when the card is inserted, and adding the counted number of balls. That is, the card possession number is the number of possession possessed by the player at the present time.

  The total number of added balls is added based on the value of the added ball number counter (added ball number) transmitted from the P stand 2F side, and the number of balls is updated. Further, the number of balls is updated by subtracting the total number of subtraction balls based on the value of the subtraction ball counter (the number of subtraction balls) transmitted from the P stand 2F side. Further, the number of cards held is added and updated based on the value of the counting ball counter transmitted from the P platform 2F. Thus, the CU3F can manage the latest information by updating the total added ball number, the total subtracted ball number, and the card holding ball number with the latest game table information transmitted from the P table 2F one by one. It becomes possible.

  As shown in the figure, the CU 3F has an area for storing game balls, and also receives a count value of a game ball counter (hereinafter also referred to as game ball number or game ball total number information) from the P stand 2F side. Yes. The CU3F updates the area for storing game balls in the following procedure. That is, the CU3F stores the value based on the value of the added ball number counter (added ball number), the value of the subtracted ball number counter (number of subtracted balls), and the value of the counted ball number counter transmitted from the P side. The number of game balls being updated is updated, and it is determined whether or not the count value of the game ball counter transmitted from the P platform side at the same timing matches the updated number of game balls. If they match, the game is allowed to continue, but if they do not match, control to shift to an error state is performed.

  As a result, for example, an error notification is performed by the abnormality notification lamp or the indicator 312F, or an error notification signal indicating that an error has occurred is transmitted to the hall management computer or the hall server 801F (in this case, the hall Error notification may be performed by the management computer or the hall server 801F). As a result, a predetermined notification that prompts an artificial response by a staff member is performed.

  Instead of shifting to an error state and stopping the game, the number of game balls stored on the CU3F side is replaced with the count value of the game ball number counter transmitted from the P unit 2F side. Also good. Alternatively, it may be corrected to an average value of the number of game balls managed on the CU3F side and the number of game balls stored on the P stand 2F side.

  As described above, in this embodiment, the number of game balls is also stored on the CU3F side, but it is determined whether or not the number of game balls matches the number of game balls managed and stored on the P unit 2F side. (CU3F side function). Therefore, even if a situation occurs in which the number of game balls stored on the P stand 2F side does not match the number of game balls stored on the CU 3F side due to fraud or other circumstances, it can be checked. Here, the determination function is provided on the CU3F side. For example, the number of game balls stored on the CU3F side and stored on the P unit 2F side by the hall server 801F or hall management computer connected to the CU3F. The number of game balls being played may be received, and it may be determined whether or not the two match.

  As shown in FIG. 37, the CU 3F has a storage area for storing the number of cards held and the number of stored balls, a storage area for storing the card balance of the accepted (inserted) card, and the total number of added balls (the number of added balls). (Cumulative total), the total number of subtracted balls (total number of subtracted balls), and a storage area for storing balls when the card is inserted. The CU control unit 323F (see FIG. 37) stores a stored ball in response to an input requesting the use of the stored ball (for example, pressing input of the replay button 319F provided on the CU 3F (when there is no holding ball)). Subtract a certain number of balls from the area.

  The CU control unit 323F (see FIG. 37) is an input requesting the use of a ball (for example, pressing input of a replay button 319F provided on the CU3F when a ball is present (however, when a ball is present)) Accordingly, a predetermined number of balls are subtracted from the storage area for storing balls. Further, the CU control unit 323F (see FIG. 37) subtracts a predetermined value from a storage area for storing the card balance in response to an input requesting the use of the card balance (for example, pressing input of the ball lending button 321F).

  When a player performs an operation to deduct the value from the player's own gaming value (for example, prepaid balance, number of balls, or number of stored balls) and use it for the game, the number of balls for the withdrawal The number of balls to be added to the number counter is transmitted from the CU3F side to the P stand 2F side. In response to this, the P stand 2F side adds and updates the game ball counter.

  On the other hand, in the gaming system according to the present embodiment, it is possible to accept a so-called wagon service order in which the gaming value owned by the player is withdrawn and exchanged for a drink or the like. However, access to wagon services with game balls is restricted, and wagon services can only be received with holding balls. This is an image of prohibiting the use of the ball before counting remaining in the dish by hand and using it for the wagon service in the conventional enclosing circulation pachinko machine in which each counter is provided.

  For this reason, in the present embodiment, when the operation for performing the wagon service is executed, if the number of possessed balls is less than the number corresponding to the desired menu of the wagon service, the player is prompted to perform the counting operation. ing. When the player performs a counting operation at that time, the number of counting balls based on the operation is transmitted from the P stand 2F side to the CU 3F side. On the CU3F side, in response to this, the number of game balls is subtracted and the number of cards held is added and updated.

<Commands and responses sent and received between the CU and the P platform>
Next, with reference to FIG. 40, an outline of commands and responses transmitted / received between the CU (card unit) 3F and the P unit (pachinko machine) 2F will be described.

  FIG. 40 shows the transmission direction, whether the data to be transmitted is a command or a response, the name of transmission information, and its outline.

<< 1. Recovery request, 2. Recovery response >>
First, a command named recovery request is transmitted from the CU 3F to the P unit 2F. This recovery request command is for requesting recovery information to the P base 2F. In response to this recovery request, a response named recovery response is transmitted from the P base 2F to the CU 3F. The response of this recovery response notifies the CU3F of recovery information.

  The recovery request command is transmitted from the CU 3F to the P unit 2F after the CU 3F completes the authentication. The recovery request command requests recovery information from the CU 3F to the P platform 2F, and the CU 3F transmits the command first after the authentication is completed. The recovery request includes “serial number”, “command”, “previous last transmission serial number”, and “previous final transmission count serial number”. “Serial number” is a sequence number (1 to 255). “Command” is a command code for the recovery request, and is represented by binary data in hexadecimal representation.

  The “last last transmission serial number” is the serial number of the command of the status information request last transmitted to the P unit 2F at the previous connection. When “Previous Last Transmission Sequence Number” is “0”, this indicates a state where there is no stored sequence number. The “previous last transmission serial number” is a serial number that stores the “sequential number” as the previous final transmission serial number (serial number) on the P unit 2F and CU3F side when the status information response is received at the CU3F when the P unit 2F transmits the status information response. It is.

  “Previous last transmission count sequence number” is a count sequence number of a response to the status information request last transmitted to the P-unit 2F at the previous connection. “Last transmission count sequence number” indicates that there is no stored sequence number when “0”. The “previous last transmission count sequence number” is a sequence number that stores the count sequence number as the previous last transmission count sequence number on the P unit 2F and CU3F side when the status information response is received to the CU3F when the P unit 2F transmits the status information response. .

  In the recovery process (number of balls) of the P base 2F, the “store code” and “SC board ID” notified from the security board 325F in the counting history sequence described later, and the “store code” held by the P base 2F And the coincidence determination with “SC board ID” is performed, and if they coincide, the following processing is performed. If they do not match, the count request ball count = 0 is set in the subtraction register and notified to the user program.

  The P stand 2F refers to the “previous last transmission count sequence number” notified from the CU 3F, and when the CU 3F has not performed the count process for the count request, sets the count request ball count = 0 in the subtraction register. The user program executed on the P platform 2F is notified. When the counting process has been performed by the CU 3F, the count request ball number notified to the CU 3F is set in the subtraction register and notified to the user program. If all the store codes held by the P platform 2F are “F” (hexadecimal number), it is determined that the store codes match. Further, when the “store code” notified from the security board 325F and the “store code” held in the P stand 2F do not match, the user program side is notified of the store code mismatch via the register. Note that, when the P unit 2F receives a recovery request command from the CU 3F, it notifies the user program side via the register.

  The response of the recovery response is a response to the recovery information held in the P base 2F to the CU 3F. Recovery information includes “Serial Number”, “Command”, “Last Last Sending Serial Number”, “Last Inserted Card ID”, “Previous Card Insertion Time”, “Last Last Sent Additional Serial Number”, “Unit Price”, “Game Information” It includes “presence / absence of storage”, “previous gaming machine information”, and “previous gaming information”. “Serial number” and “command” are the same as described above, and therefore description thereof will not be repeated.

  “Previous last transmission serial number” is data of a serial number included in the response of the status information response last transmitted to the CU 3F at the time of the previous connection. When “0”, there is no stored serial number. “Previously inserted card ID” is data of the card ID of the card that was being inserted at the previous connection, and “0” indicates that there is no inserted card. The payout control unit 171F of the P table 2F stores and holds the card ID that was being inserted based on the information transmitted from the CU3F.

  “Previous card insertion time” is data on the insertion time of a card that was being inserted at the time of the previous connection, and when it is “0”, there is no inserted card. This data is also represented by year information as 2 digits YY, month information as 2 digits MM, day information as 2 digits DD, time information as 2 digits hh, minute information as 2 digits mm, and second information as 2 digits ss. It is. The “previous last transmission addition serial number” is an addition serial number included in the response of the status information response last transmitted to the CU 3F at the previous connection, and when “0”, there is no additional serial number. The “ball unit price” is a unit price per ball (0.01 yen to 99.99 yen) played on the P platform 2F. “Game information storage presence / absence” is “0x00” when game information is not stored, and “0x01” when game information is stored.

  “Previous game machine information” is game machine information previously notified to the CU 3F, and includes information on “game ball number”, “game ball information”, “count request ball number”, and “counting serial number”. “Number of game balls” is the number of game balls previously notified to the CU 3F. “Game ball information” is the game ball information notified last time. The game ball information is, for example, information such as the number of fired balls, the number of out-passed balls and the total number of prize balls notified to the CU 3F last time. The “count required ball number” is the number of game balls requested to be counted. “Counting sequence number” is the counting sequence number notified to the CU3F last time.

  The “previous game information” is game information previously notified to the CU 3F, and includes information on “number of game information” and “game information 1” to “game information n”. The “number of game information” is the number (0 to n) of game information notified to the CU 3F last time. Note that n = 0 to 22 and the length is variable. “Game information 1” is the game information 1 previously notified to the CU 3F. “Game information n” is the game information n previously notified to the CU 3F. The game information n includes, for example, type information or game prize ball information that was previously notified to the CU 3F.

  The “previous last transmission addition serial number” is a serial number stored as the last final transmission addition serial number on the CU3F side and the P base 2F when the status information request is transmitted in the CU3F and when the status information request is received in the P base 2F.

  In the recovery process (game information) of the P table 2F, the “store code” and “SC substrate ID” notified from the security board 325F in the counting history sequence described later, the “store code” held in the P table 2F, and A match with “SC board ID” is determined, and if the “store code” does not match, the recovery data is not processed. If they match, the following processing is performed.

  When there is recovery data of game information, “game information storage presence / absence” is stored: set to 0x01, the previous “game ball number”, the previous “game ball information”, the previous “count request ball number”, the previous “ The recovery data held by the P table 2F is set in the “counting serial number”, the previous “number of game information”, and the previous “game information 1 to n”. When there is no recovery data of game information or when the last transmission serial number is 0, “game information storage presence / absence” is set to “0x00” without storage, the previous “game ball information”, the previous “count request ball number”, the previous “0” is set in the “counting serial number” and the previous “number of game information”. However, the number of game balls notified last time is set as the number of game balls. If all the store codes held by the P platform 2F are “F” (hexadecimal number), it is determined that the store codes match.

  When it is determined that the “store code” notified from the security board 325F does not match the store code held by the P platform 2F, the card is processed as having no card. That is, ALL “0” is set for “last inserted card ID” and “previous card insertion time”.

  The P base 2F stores the serial number at the time of the status information request response as the previous last transmission serial number. If the “store code” and “SC board ID” notified from the security board 325F do not match the information held by the P units, the last transmission serial number = 0 is notified. If the “store code” and “SC board ID” notified from the security board 325F match the information held in the P units, the last transmitted serial number stored is notified.

  The P base 2F stores the counting sequence number as the last last transmission counting sequence number when transmitting the status information response. If the “store code” and “SC board ID” notified from the SC 325b do not match the information held in the P units, the last transmission count serial number is notified as 0. If the “store code” and “SC board ID” notified from the security board 325F match the information held in the P units, the last transmitted transmission number is stored.

  In addition, when the process of the “last previous transmission serial number” notified from the P unit 2F has not been performed, the CU 3F performs the recovery process using the previous game machine information. When the “last last transmission serial number” process is being performed, the CU 3F performs the recovery process using only the previous game machine information. However, the number of balls is not recovered.

  In addition, when the recovery process cannot be performed due to a mismatch of communication partners (for example, replacement of the CU 3F or the P base 2F), it may be possible to manually correct by POS based on the display information of the P base 2F. For example, the display information of the P platform 2F can be displayed using the liquid crystal display screen of the variable display device 278F. Alternatively, a display device that is controlled by the payout control unit 171F may be further provided on the P platform 2F, and information for manual correction may be displayed on the display device. Note that POS refers to a free gift management system for exchanging free gifts and managing free gifts. In addition, POS is not limited to those for exchanging prizes or managing prizes, but records general sales information for each sale of merchandise at a store and uses the aggregated results as inventory management or marketing materials. It may be management (Point Of Sales system).

<< 3. Recovery request 2, 4. Recovery response 2 >>
A command named recovery request 2 is transmitted from the CU 3F to the P platform 2F. The command of this recovery request 2 notifies the added recovery information to the P unit 2F. In response to this recovery request 2, a response named recovery response 2 is transmitted from the P platform 2F to the CU 3F. This response of the recovery response 2 notifies the processing result of the added recovery information to the CU 3F.

  The command of the recovery request 2 is to notify the addition recovery information to the P unit 2F, and includes data of “serial number”, “command”, “previous last transmission additional serial number”, and “number of additional balls”. Yes. “Serial number” and “command” are the same as described above, and therefore description thereof will not be repeated. The recovery request 2 is transmitted when the CU 3F determines that the additional ball recovery process needs to be performed on the P platform 2F. The CU 3F compares the “previous last transmission addition sequence number” included in the recovery response received from the P platform 2F with the “previous final transmission addition sequence number” stored in the CU 3F. It is determined that processing is not necessary, and in the case of mismatch, it is determined that addition ball recovery processing is necessary. When it is determined that addition ball recovery processing is necessary, a recovery request 2 is transmitted.

  The “last last transmission addition serial number” included in the recovery request 2 is data of the addition serial number of the command of the status information request last transmitted to the P-unit 2F at the time of the previous connection. This is data on the number of balls added.

  Next, the recovery process of the P platform 2F will be described in detail. In the recovery process of the P unit 2F, if the P unit 2F has not performed the process of the “previous last transmission serial number” notified from the CU 3F based on the recovery request 2, the number of balls is referred to the game ball. This is a process of performing addition.

  The response of the recovery response 2 notifies the processing result of the added recovery information to the CU 3F on the P platform 2F, and includes “serial number”, “command”, and “recovery result”. The “recovery result” is a recovery result process OK when “0x00”, and a recovery result process NG when “0x01”. In addition, when the P stand 2F cannot receive the additional number of balls, the process NG is returned as a recovery result.

  When the recovery process (additional number of balls) of the P unit 2F is performed, if the P unit 2F has not performed the process of the “last previous transmission addition serial number” notified from the CU3F, the process OK is processed as a “recovery result” to the CU3F. And the number of balls to be added notified from the CU3F is set in the addition register and notified to the user program. When the number of added balls notified from the CU3F = 0, the number of added balls = 0 is set in the addition register, notified to the user program, and the process OK is returned to the CU3F. However, if the game table state 1 responds with the game ball addition result (Bit5 = 1) in the state information response when the CU state of the state information request to be described later is a game ball addition request (Bit = 1), a “recovery” is sent to the CU3F. Processing NG is returned as a “result”, and the number of balls to be added = 0 is set in the addition register and notified to the user program.

  When the “previous last transmission addition serial number” notified from the CU3F is the same as the “previous final transmission addition serial number” held by the chip of the P stand 2F, the number of balls to be added = 0 is set in the addition register, The user program is notified, and processing NG is returned as a “recovery result” to the CU 3F. If the “last last transmission addition serial number” notified from the CU3F = 0, regardless of the number of additional balls notified from the CU3F, the number of additional balls = 0 is set in the addition register, and the user program is notified to the CU3F. The process OK is returned.

  In addition, at the timing when the recovery process is completed (for example, when the recovery completion flag is set), the “previous last transmission addition serial number” notified from the CU3F is notified to the user program via the register regardless of the recovery result. . When the recovery request 2 is not received, the “previous last transmission addition serial number” held by the chip of the P platform 2F is notified to the user program at the timing when the recovery process is completed.

<< 5. 5. Communication start request, Communication start response >>
A communication start request command is transmitted from the CU 3F to the P platform 2F. This communication start request command requests the P base 2F to start communication. In response to this communication start request, a response to the communication start response is transmitted from the P stand 2F to the CU 3F. This communication start response is a response to the CU3F to start communication.

  The communication start request command notifies the P base 2F that communication has started normally. The P base 2F that has received the communication start request clears the recovery information stored so far. The communication start request command includes “serial number” and “command” data. “Serial number” and “command” are the same as described above, and therefore description thereof will not be repeated. The CU 3F sets the counting sequence number to “0” (initial value) after the communication start request, and the P unit 2F also sets the counting sequence number to “0” (initial value) after receiving the communication start request.

  The response of the communication start response notifies the CU 3F that the communication has started normally, and the CU 3F clears the recovery information. The response of the communication start response includes “serial number” and “command” data. “Serial number” and “command” are the same as described above, and therefore description thereof will not be repeated.

<< 7. 7. Communication end request, Communication end response >>
A communication end request command is transmitted from the CU 3F to the P platform 2F. This communication end request command requests the P unit 2F to end communication. In response to this communication end request, a response of a communication end response is transmitted from the P stand 2F to the CU 3F. The response of the communication end response is a response to the CU3F for the communication end.

  The communication end request command notifies the P unit 2F that the communication has ended normally, and includes data of “serial number” and “command”. “Serial number” and “command” are the same as described above, and therefore description thereof will not be repeated.

  The response of the communication end response is to notify the CU 3F that the communication has ended normally, and the CU 3F and the P stand 2F stop communication and wait for restart after the notification. The response of the communication end response includes “serial number” and “command” data. “Serial number” and “command” are the same as described above, and therefore description thereof will not be repeated.

<< 9. Status information request >>
A status information request command is transmitted from the CU 3F to the P platform 2F. This status information request command is for requesting the status of the CU 3F to the P base 2F. The CU 3F periodically checks the state of the P stand 2F using this command. The status information request command includes the number of balls to be added from the CU3F side to the P stand 2F side shown in FIG.

  Specific data of this status information request includes “serial number”, “command”, “CU state”, “additional ball number”, “additional serial number”, “counting serial number”, “ball unit price”, and “counting receipt time”. Is included. “Serial number” and “command” are the same as described above, and therefore description thereof will not be repeated.

  The “CU state” represents the state of the CU 3F notified to the P base 2F, and indicates that the card is being inserted when Bit 0 is “1”, and the card is not inserted when “0”. That is, Bit0 represents a state in which a card (general card / member card) is inserted in CU3F. In addition, a general card is being inserted by depositing a stock card (general 0 yen 0 coin card) stocked in advance in the card stock section of the CU3F.

  When Bit 1 is “1”, the card unit is being opened, and when it is “0”, the card unit is being closed. That is, Bit1 notifies the card unit opening state to P stand 2F according to the state of CU3F. The timing for notifying the opening of the card unit is, for example, when the opening of the card unit is completed. The timing for notifying that the card unit is closed is, for example, when the store is closed. When the same state changes from opening to closing, the P stand 2F notifies the CU 3F as a count information of all the game balls it holds as a count information response.

  When Bit 2 is “1”, the card return preparation is in progress, and when “0”, the card return preparation is not in progress. The CU3F notifies the P stand 2F of “preparing for card return” for a certain period (10 seconds) by setting this bit during each operation of card return, simple leaving, and meal break. When the operation of the counting button 28F is detected, the P table 2F has operated the counting button once or a plurality of times if it receives a status information request with the bit being prepared for card return turned on. Regardless of the operation duration, regardless of the operation duration time, all the stored game balls are notified to the CU 3F by the status information response as the number of balls.

  When Bit 3 is “1”, a game ball addition request is shown, and when Bit 3 is “0”, no game ball addition request is shown. That is, Bit3 requests addition of game balls (the number of added balls) at the time of ball lending, holding ball payout, and stored ball payout operations.

  When Bit 4 is “1”, completion of counting ball reception is indicated, and “0” indicates that counting ball is not received. Bit 4 notifies the P stand 2F that the receipt is completed when the counting ball is received. That is, it is used to confirm delivery of the response “count ball” of the state information response. When receiving the counting ball reception completion, the P stand 2F checks whether the counting sequence number is the same as that of the P stand 2F, and if it does not match, notifies the CU 3F without subtracting the number of game balls.

  When Bit 5 is “1”, card removal is waiting, and “0” indicates completion of card removal. Bit5 notifies the P stand 2F that the card is waiting to be removed from the CU 3F. Bit 6 to Bit 7 are not used.

  The “added ball number” is the added ball number of game balls, and the data of the added ball number is valid only when Bit 3 in the CU state is “1”. The “addition serial number” is an addition sequence number (0 to 255), and is notified by updating (+1) the sequence number when a game ball addition request is made. The “counting sequence number” is a counting sequence number (0 to 255), and the count sequence number received when the count is requested is notified as it is. However, if the continuity of the counting sequence number is not established, the counting is not received.

  The “ball unit price” is a unit price (0.01 yen to 99.99 yen) per game ball played on the P platform 2F. The unit price notified from the CU 3F to the P stand 2F is stored in, for example, the RAM of the payout control board 17F of the P stand 2F. And P stand 2F notifies ball unit price memorized by RAM to CU3F by a status information response when a predetermined condition is satisfied. Specifically, when recovery information for returning from a communication disabled state is requested from the CU 3F to the P unit 2F (recovery request command is transmitted from the CU 3F), the P unit 2F receives a response to the response of the recovery response. Set unit price and send to CU3F. That is, the ball unit price is not output to the outside except for notifying the CU 3F at the time of recovery response. The unit price stored in the P stand 2F is set in the response of the recovery response when the recovery request command is transmitted from the CU 3F, and is transmitted to the CU 3F. Thereby, it is possible to accurately grasp the unit price of the game balls that have been played on the P platform 2F before the recovery, and the player can be resumed with an appropriate game value after the recovery. Further, by not outputting the ball unit price stored in the P stand 2F to the outside other than notifying the CU 3F at the time of a recovery response, security is secured so that the ball unit price is not changed illegally. Furthermore, the ball unit price stored in the P unit 2F prohibits overwriting a new unit price when the P unit 2F holds the number of game balls. In addition, even when the P stand 2F holds the number of game balls, overwriting of the ball unit price stored in the P unit 2F is permitted and converted into a ball unit price overwritten with the number of game balls held. May be configured to update.

  The “count reception time” is information for notifying the P table 2F of the time when the CU 3F received the count request from the P table 2F, and the CU state Bit 4 (game ball count reception response) is “1” ( It is valid only when it is completed. The “count reception time” information is notified to the P platform 2F, but is processed only within the CPU of the payout control unit 171F, and stored in a RAM or the like accessible from the outside without being notified to the user program. Absent. Therefore, the information of “count reception time” is deleted in the CPU of the payout control unit 171F, so that security can be ensured.

<< 10. Status information response >>
In response to the status information request, a response of the status information response is transmitted from the P stand 2F to the CU 3F. This response of the status information response notifies the CU 3F of the information / status of the P platform 2F. The response of the status information response includes the latest game table information and the number of game balls shown in FIG.

  The specific data of this status information response includes “sequential number”, “command”, “number of game balls”, “number of fired balls”, “number of balls passed through outro”, “total number of ball balls”, “count request ball” Data of “number”, “counting serial number”, “launch strength”, “game table state”, “fraud detection information” and “game information” are included. “Serial number” and “command” are the same as described above, and therefore description thereof will not be repeated.

  The “number of game balls” is the current number of game balls (the number of game balls as a result of calculating addition / subtraction). “Number of game balls” calculates the number of game balls held by the CU 3F using the “total number of ball balls”, “number of fired balls”, and “count ball number” described later. Thereafter, the CU 3F checks whether the calculated number of game balls of the CU 3F matches the number of game balls of the P unit 2F.

  “Number of fired balls” is the number of fired balls (summed if there are balls fired multiple times at the time of transmission). However, if there are back balls, subtract the number of back balls. That is, the “number of fired balls” (subtraction) is data to be subtracted from the number of game balls held by the CU 3F. When the data is received without holding the card, the CU 3F does not subtract the number of game balls. CU3F does not perform subtraction when the number of game balls held by CU3F itself is zero.

  “The number of balls that have passed through the outlet” is the number of balls that have passed through the outlet 154F (when there are multiple passing balls at the time of transmission, they are added together).

  “Total number of prize balls” is the total number of prize balls in the prize ball information 1-n. The prize ball information 1-n is the number of prize balls for each prize opening type such as a start opening, a big winning opening, a winning opening (ordinary winning opening), and the like. Note that the “total prize ball count” (addition) does not include the “addition request ball count” transmitted from the CU 3F. Further, the CU3F adds the data of the total number of prize balls to the number of game balls held. When the total prize ball number data is received without holding the card, the CU 3F does not add the number of game balls.

  The “count request ball number” is the number of game balls requested to be counted. That is, the “count ball” (subtraction) is data that is subtracted from the number of game balls held by the CU 3F and added to the number of cards held. The number of counting balls is not used for the data of the number of subtraction balls transmitted from the P stand 2F to the CU 3F. When the data is received without holding the card, the CU 3F does not subtract the number of game balls. CU3F does not perform subtraction when the number of game balls held by CU3F itself is zero.

  However, when the card unit opening state changes from opening to closing, the game balls held by the gaming machine are counted and set as the number of counting balls. When the card unit opening state is open, the operation of the counting button 28F is performed, so that the number of game balls is counted and set as the number of counting balls. However, when the card unit opening state changes from opening to closing, the game balls are automatically counted and set as the counting balls without waiting for the operation of the counting button 28F.

  The “counting serial number” is a counting sequence number (0 to 255), and is updated (+1) and notified when a counting is requested.

“Launch strength” is information on the launch strength of a game ball.
The “gaming table state” indicates the state of the P table 2F at the time when the command for requesting the status information is transmitted from the CU 3F to the P table 2F. It includes information on “game table state 3” and “game table error state”.

  Bit 0 of “gaming table state 1” indicates whether the game is permitted or prohibited. When “0”, the game is permitted, and when “1”, the game is prohibited. Bit1 indicates whether or not the fan (player) is playing (balls are being fired), and is “0” when waiting (the fan is not firing a ball), and “1”. A game is in progress (a state in which a fan is firing a ball), but there is a game ball, and a game is being played in a state in which the launch handle (hitting ball operation handle 25F) is touched (a state in which the touch sensor is touched).

  Bit 2 indicates the presence / absence of a game ball (detection of no game ball). When “0”, there are a number of game balls, and when “1”, there is no game balls. Bit 3 indicates whether or not the whereabouts of all the fired balls are confirmed in a state where the fire of the balls is stopped. That is, it shows whether all the floating balls in the game area 27 have been collected. However, it does not include ball stoppages due to the fire stop switch (also called single shot switch). When it is “0”, the game is incomplete (a state where all balls are unconfirmed), and when it is “1”, a game is complete (a state where all balls are confirmed). If the completion of the game is not confirmed for 15 seconds or more after stopping the ball firing, the P stand 2F times out and the game is completed.

  Bit 3 indicates whether or not the whereabouts of all the fired balls are confirmed in a state where the fire of the balls is stopped. “0” indicates game ball indefinite (state where all balls are undetermined), and “1” indicates game ball definite (state where all balls are definite). Here, for example, if the P ball 2F has not been able to confirm the whereabouts of the game ball for 15 seconds or more after stopping the ball launching, it will time out and determine the game ball. Further, the P stand 2F is set in a state in which the whereabouts of the game balls are determined (game ball determination) when the power is turned on or the RAM is cleared.

  Bit 4 indicates whether or not there is a game ball count request (whether or not a count button is pressed). When “0”, there is no request, and when “1”, there is a count ball payout request at the start of counting. When the counting operation is detected, the P platform transmits this counting request ON state information response to the CU 3F and confirms whether or not the counting request has been received. When “1”, it is a count request. Bit 5 indicates the processing result of the game ball addition, which is addition OK when “0” and addition NG when “1”. In addition, when the P platform 2F makes an addition NG response, the addition sequence number is notified without being updated. Bit 6 indicates a pressed state of the firing stop switch. When “0”, the switch is released, and when “1”, the switch is pressed. Bit 7 is reserved.

  Bit 0 of “gaming table state 2” represents jackpot information jackpot 1 (all jackpots), and “1” is set during all jackpots. Bit 1 represents big hit 2 of big hit information (big hit + small hit), and sets “1” during all big hits and small hits. Bit 2 represents the big hit 3 of the big hit information (big hit of the big ball), and “1” is set during the big hit where the big ball is big. Bit 3 represents big hit 4 of big hit information (big hit of small ball), and “1” is set during big hit with small ball. Bit 4 represents a big hit 5 of the big hit information (a big hit in the outgoing ball), and “1” is set during the big hit in the middle of the outgoing ball. Bit5 to Bit7 are reserved.

  Bit 0 of “gaming table state 3” represents a big hit in the gaming state information + short time, and “1” is set in the big hit and short time. Bit1 represents the probability change of the game state information, and “1” is set during the probability change. Bit 2 represents the time of the game state information, and “1” is set during the time reduction. Bit 3 indicates that the game state information is changing, and “1” is set during the change. Bit4 to Bit7 are reserved.

  The “gaming table error state” indicates an error code occurring in the P table 2F, and each error code is expressed using Bit0 to Bit5. Note that there is no error when Bit 0 to Bit 5 are all “0”. Bit 6 is information for specifying a place where an error has occurred, and represents payout control when “0” and main control when “1”. Bit 7 indicates an error output method. When it is “0”, only an alarm is issued, and when it is “1”, it indicates an alarm + output to the hall server 801F.

  The “fraud detection information” is information detected by the P stand 2F at the time when the command for requesting the status information is transmitted from the CU 3F to the P stand 2F. , “Illegal detection information 1” to “fraud detection information 4” and “additional serial number” are included.

  The “fraud detection state 1” is fraud detection information of the main control board 16F. Bit 0 of “fraud detection state 1” indicates fraud detection information of radio wave sensor detection when “1”. Bit1 indicates that it is the positive detection information that the magnetic sensor is not detected when “1”. Bit2 represents fraud detection information for fraud detection when “1”. Bit3 to Bit7 are reserved.

  The “fraud detection state 2” is fraud detection information of the payout control board 17F. Bit 0 of “fraud detection state 2” indicates fraud detection information for opening the glass plate when “1”. Bit 1 represents fraud detection information for opening the frame body when “1”. Bit 2 represents fraud detection information of radio wave sensor detection when “1”. Bit 3 represents fraud detection information of the proximity sensor abnormality when “1”. Bit 4 represents fraud detection information for detecting a prize ball goto when “1”. Here, the “goto” is an illegal act of acquiring a ball in an illegal manner in a pachinko gaming machine or a slot machine. Bit 5 represents fraud detection information for complex goth detection when “1”. Bit 6 represents fraud detection information for fraud addition detection when “1”. Bit 7 represents fraud detection information for nighttime frame opening / monitoring SW abnormality detection when “1”.

  “Injustice detection information 1” is data indicating information on the detection of the winning ball sensor got (number of winning inconsistent balls). The “fraud detection information 1” is valid when Bit 4 of the “fraud detection state 2” is “1”. The “injustice detection information 2” is data indicating information of composite sensor goto detection (launch / OUT inconsistent ball number). That is, it is data indicating information when an inconsistency between the number of shot balls and the number of out balls (the number of balls passing through the outlet) is detected. The “fraud detection information 2” is valid when Bit 5 of the “fraud detection state 2” is “1”. “Falsification detection information 3” is data indicating information of fraud addition detection (number of fraud addition balls). The “fraud detection information 3” is valid when Bit 6 of the “fraud detection state 2” is “1”. The “fraud detection information 4” is data indicating nighttime frame opening information. The “fraud detection information 4” is valid when the Bit 7 of the “fraud detection state 2” is “1”.

  Bit 7 of “illegal detection information 4” is information indicating whether or not the night monitoring switch abnormality 4 has occurred, and indicates “normal” when “0” and abnormal 4 occurrence when “1”. Bit 6 is information indicating whether or not the nighttime monitoring switch abnormality 3 has occurred, and represents “normal” when “0” and abnormal 3 occurrence when “1”. Bit 5 is information indicating whether or not the night monitoring switch abnormality 2 has occurred, and indicates “normal” when “0” and abnormal 2 occurrence when “1”. Bit 4 is information indicating whether or not the night monitoring switch abnormality 1 has occurred, and represents “normal” when “0” and abnormal 1 occurrence when “1”. Bits 0 to 3 are information indicating the number of opening of the main body frame. When the bit is “0”, there is no opening, and “1” to “15” indicate the number of opening. The number of times of opening is counted up to 15 times, and the count after 16 times is held at 15 times.

  “Addition sequence number” is a sequence number for addition, and the addition sequence number received at the time of addition request is notified as it is. However, if the continuity of the addition sequence number is not established, the addition NG is notified.

  The “fraud detection state 3” is fraud detection information of the payout control board 17F. Bit 0 of “fraud detection state 3” indicates fraud detection information of other store game ball detection when “1”. Bit 5 of “fraud detection state 3” indicates that when “1”, the card unit to which the P unit 2F was connected in the past was the development CU3FD (development CU connection). Bit 6 of “illegal detection state 3” indicates that the card unit to which the P stand 2F was connected in the past when “1” is the game board development jig 3E (game board development jig connection). . Bit 7 of “illegal detection state 3” indicates that the gaming machine connected when “1” is a gaming machine simulator (gaming machine simulator connection). Bit1 to Bit4 are reserved. In addition, the other store game ball detection is, for example, a sensor is provided in the collection balls passing path of P units, the sensor reads identification information (such as a marking on the surface) provided on the game ball, the game ball of the own store It is determined whether or not it matches the identification information. In the case of a mismatch, it is assumed that the game balls of other stores are mixed in the game balls, and Bit 0 of “injustice detection state 3” is set to “1” and notified to the CU 3F.

  The “game information” is information on the P device 2F at the time when the command for requesting the state information is transmitted from the CU 3F to the P device 2F. The “game information number”, “type information 1” to “type information n” , “Count information 1” to “count information n”.

  “Number of game information” is the number (n) of type information / count information, and n = 0 to 22 (variable length). “Type information 1” to “Type information n” indicate game type information 1 to game type information n, respectively. The type information is data type information from Bit 4 to Bit 7 and indicates the data type of the game information. When it is “0”, there is no information, when it is “1”, when it is “2”, it is a big prize opening. “3” is a winning opening, “4” is the number of symbol stops, “5” is a big hit, and “6” is a small hit. Bit 0 to Bit 3 are data number information, which indicates the data number for each data type of game information. When “0”, there is no information, and when “1” to “15”, each data number is indicated. . For example, when the data type is a big hit of “5”, the data number is “1”, the ball is large, “2” is the ball is small, “3” is the ball, “4” to “6” It is a spare time. Further, when the data type is a small hit of “6”, the data number is a small hit when “1”, and a spare when “2” to “15”.

  “Count information 1” to “Count information n” indicate game count information 1 to game count information n, respectively.

  Here, when the data type is a start opening, a large winning opening, and a small winning opening, the count information is information on the number of winning balls from Bit 4 to Bit 7, and the winning ball at the time of winning for each type information of game information. The numbers indicate the number of award balls when “1” to “15”. Bit 0 to Bit 3 are information on the number of wins, which indicates the number of wins (cumulative) for each type of game table information, and each of the numbers “1” to “15” represents data on the number of wins. In the count information, when the data type is the symbol stop count, Bit 4 to Bit 7 are fixed to “0”, Bit 0 to Bit 3 indicate the symbol stop count, and when “1” to “15”, the symbol stop count Represents. In the count information, when the data type is big hit or small hit, Bit 4 to Bit 7 are fixed to “0”, Bit 0 to Bit 3 indicate the number of hits, and when “1” to “15”, the number of hits is shown. It represents.

  Furthermore, the response of the state information response includes a “launch intensity signal”, a “passing area signal”, a “during fluctuation signal”, and a “handle touch signal”.

  The “fire strength signal” indicates the fire strength T that is the detection result of the fire strength sensor 19 described above. As described above, in the present embodiment, the firing intensity T is a variable value that varies from 0 (minimum value) to 99 (maximum value) in accordance with the amount of steering operation. In addition, when the communication interval (for example, 200 msec) between the P stand 2F and the CU3F is shorter than the interval between the pachinko balls (for example, 0.6 sec), a firing intensity signal is basically output for each ball. become. Further, the firing intensity signal may be output as a set with data indicating whether or not it has actually been fired.

  “Passing area signal” indicates the above-described passing area signal. As described above, in the present embodiment, the pass area signal is one of the pass area signals A1 to A8. Each passing area signal is associated with the firing intensity T at the time when each passing area signal is detected.

  The “changing signal” indicates that the symbol displayed on the variable display device 278 </ b> F is fluctuating as the pachinko ball passes through any of the start winning holes 275, 276, and 277.

  The “handle touch signal” indicates that the touch sensor detects that the player is touching the hitting operation handle 25F.

<< 11. Card insertion notification, 12. Card insertion response >>
A card insertion notification command is transmitted from the CU 3F to the P stand 2F. This card insertion notification command is for notifying the P unit 2F of card insertion. In response to this card insertion notification, a response of a card insertion response is transmitted from the P stand 2F to the CU 3F. This response to the card insertion response is a response to the effect that the card insertion notification has been received with respect to the CU 3F.

  The card insertion notification command notifies the card ID and insertion time of the inserted card to the P base 2F when the card is inserted, and “sequential number”, “command”, “card ID”, “card insertion time”, Data of “store code” and “SC board ID” are included. “Serial number” and “command” are the same as described above, and therefore description thereof will not be repeated.

  “Card ID” is identification ID information of an IC card inserted into the CU 3F, and is used for associating with a game ball held by the P stand 2F. “Card insertion time” is the time when the IC card is inserted into the card insertion / eject port 309F (see FIG. 1) of the CU3F. The year information is 2 digits YY, the month information is 2 digits MM, and the day information is 2 digits. The data is DD, time information is represented by two digits hh, minute information is represented by two digits mm, and second information is represented by two digits ss. The card insertion time is used to determine whether the game ball held on the P platform 2F is the current day ball or the past ball.

  The “store code” is a store identification code in which the CU 3F is installed, and is used for associating with a game ball held by the P stand 2F. It is also used to determine whether or not the CU3F has been moved to the store. The CU3F stores a store code where the CU3F is installed. The store code is notified from the security board 325F with information added thereto. The “SC board ID” is an SC board ID for identifying the CU3F, and is used to determine whether or not the CU3F has been replaced. The SC board ID is added to the security board 325F and notified to the P platform 2F. The payout control unit 171F of the P table 2F stores information notified by the card insertion notification command such as the card ID (C-ID) and the card insertion time. The “store code” and “SC board ID” are not notified to the user program side and are deleted in the payout control circuit.

  The response of the card insertion response notifies the CU 3F that the card insertion notification has been normally received, and includes “serial number” and “command” data. “Serial number” and “command” are the same as described above, and therefore description thereof will not be repeated.

  The operation of the P stand 2F at the time of card insertion / return notification will be described. First, a card or general card is inserted into the card insertion / discharge port 309F of CU3F, or a card is notified to the P stand 2F as a card insertion notification by depositing a general 0 yen 0 coin card. Information such as ID and card insertion time is notified. When there is a card insertion notification, the P table 2F backs up information such as the card ID and the card insertion time. However, when a card insertion notification command is received and a status information request including information on the status of the CU 3F being inserted into the card (Bit 0 = 1 in the CU status) is received (determined that the card is being inserted in the P stand 2F) ), The P base 2F transmits only a response without backing up information such as the card ID and the card insertion time. When the card return button 322F of the CU 3F is pressed, a card return notification is made to the P base 2F, and the P base 2F clears information such as the backed up card ID and card insertion time. The condition for canceling the card insertion state is when the P stand 2F receives the card return notification command.

<< 13. Card return notice, 14. Card return response >>
A card return notification command is transmitted from the CU 3F to the P stand 2F. This card return notification command is for notifying the P unit 2F of the card return. In response to this card return notification, a response of a card return response is transmitted from the P stand 2F to the CU 3F. The response of this card return response is a response to the card return to the CU3F.

  The card return notification command is for notifying the P platform 2F of the card return, and the CU 3F transmits the notification when the “card return” button is pressed. The card return notification includes data of “serial number” and “command”. “Serial number” and “command” are the same as described above, and therefore description thereof will not be repeated.

  The response to the card return response is to send a response to the card return notification to the CU 3F, and includes data of “serial number”, “command”, “card ID”, and “card insertion time”. “Serial number”, “command”, “card ID”, and “card insertion time” are the same as described above, and therefore description thereof will not be repeated. Note that the CU3F does not return the card if the card ID included in the command does not match the ID of the currently inserted card or there is a problem with the card insertion time included in the command. , And processing such as prohibiting the writing of the holding ball to the card.

  Here, the operation of the P stand 2F at the time of card insertion notification or card return notification will be described. At the time of card insertion notification, if the CU3F is used to insert a member card, a general card, or a deposit to a general 0 yen 0 coin card, the P stand 2F backs up the card ID and the card insertion time. When an operation of pressing the “card return” button is performed on the CU 3F at the time of the card return notification, the P stand 2F clears the card ID and the card insertion time.

<< 15. Communication test request, 16. Communication test response >>
A communication test request command is transmitted from the CU 3F to the P platform 2F. This communication test request command notifies the P unit 2F of test data. In response to this communication test request, a response of a communication test response is transmitted from the P base 2F to the CU 3F. The response of this card return response is a response of test data to the CU3F.

  The communication test request command notifies the P unit 2F of test data. Note that the test data notified to the P platform 2F is not encrypted. The communication test request command includes data of “serial number”, “command”, and “test data”. “Serial number” and “command” are the same as described above, and therefore description thereof will not be repeated. “Test data” is test data to be notified to the P base 2F and is arbitrary data.

  The response of the communication test response notifies the CU3F of test data. Note that the test data notified to the CU3F is not encrypted. The response of the communication test response includes data of “serial number”, “command”, and “test data”. “Serial number” and “command” are the same as described above, and therefore description thereof will not be repeated. “Test data” is test data notified to the CU 3F, and is arbitrary data.

<< 17. Count history request, 18. Counting history response >>
A count history request command is transmitted from the CU 3F to the P platform 2F. This count history request command is for requesting a count history to the P base 2F. In response to the count history request, a response of a count history response is transmitted from the P base 2F to the CU 3F. The response to the counting history response is to notify the counting history to the CU3F.

  The count history request command requests a count history from the P base 2F, and the CU 3F transmits it to the P base 2F in the count history sequence after the authentication sequence. The count history request includes data of “serial number”, “command”, “store code”, and “SC board ID”. “Serial number” and “command” are the same as described above, and therefore description thereof will not be repeated.

  The “store code” is a store identification code in which the CU 3F is installed, and is used for associating with a game ball held by the P stand 2F. The store code is notified from the security board 325F with information added thereto. The “SC board ID” is an SC board ID for identifying the CU3F, and is used to determine whether or not the CU3F has been replaced. The SC board ID is added to the security board 325F and notified to the P platform 2F.

  A process for detecting the shipment maker code of the SC board ID will be described. The SC board ID includes an identification code and a shipping manufacturer code. The P units recognize connected units (commercial CU3F, development unit, etc.) by detecting the shipping manufacturer code included in the SC board ID.

  Specifically, a description will be given of a case where the P platform detects whether a unit to be connected is a development unit or a game board development jig. When the game history when these development units and game board development jigs not used for commercial use are connected to the unit (CU3F) used for commercial use after that, the game balls given during development This causes a problem that allows a game to be played during commercial use. Therefore, in order to avoid the problem, the P stand 2F detects whether the development unit or the game board development jig is connected when connected to the unit, and stores the result in the recovery register.

  In order to detect whether the development unit or the game board development jig is connected when connected to the unit, the P base 2F, the shipping manufacturer code of the SC board ID before the count history request, and the count history request The shipping manufacturer code of the later SC board ID is compared. First, if the shipment maker code of the SC board ID before the count history request is “None”, the development unit or the game board development jig is detected regardless of the shipment maker code of the SC board ID after the count history request. do not do. Even if the shipment maker code of the SC board ID before the count history request matches the shipment maker code of the SC board ID after the count history request, it is not detected as a development unit or a game board development jig.

  However, when the shipping manufacturer code of the SC board ID before requesting the counting history and the shipping manufacturer code of the SC board ID after requesting the counting history match the upper byte, but the lower byte is different, it is detected as a development unit. Also, the upper byte of the shipping manufacturer code of the SC board ID before requesting the counting history is the code of the commercial unit, and the upper byte of the shipping manufacturer code of the SC board ID after requesting the counting history is the code other than the game board development jig Also detected as a development unit. If the upper byte of the shipping maker code of the SC board ID before requesting the counting history is the code of the commercial unit, and the upper byte of the shipping maker code of the SC board ID after requesting the counting history is the code of the game board development jig, the game board Detect with development jig.

  The P stand 2F stores the detection that the development unit is connected by setting Bit 4 of the recovery register to “1”, and the detection that the game board development jig is connected is the recovery register. This bit is memorized by setting Bit 5 to “1”.

  If the shipment maker code of the SC board ID before the count history request is “none”, the shipment maker code of the SC board ID stored in the P base 2F is a unit newly connected after the recovery process is performed. The shipping manufacturer code of the SC board ID is overwritten. When the shipment maker code of the SC board ID before the count history request is “present”, the shipment maker code of the SC board ID stored in the P base 2F is subjected to the recovery process if there is no game ball to be recovered. After that, the shipping manufacturer code of the SC board ID of the newly connected unit is overwritten. However, the shipping manufacturer code of the SC board ID stored in the P base 2F is the same as the shipping manufacturer code of the SC board ID of the newly connected unit after the recovery process if there is a game ball to be recovered. Prohibit overwriting. It should be noted that the prohibition state of overwriting the shipment maker code of the SC board ID is canceled by clearing the RAM of the P unit 2F (particularly clearing the number of game balls). By prohibiting the overwriting of the shipping maker code of the SC board ID when there are game balls, the number of game balls given by the development unit is recovered as the number of game balls that can be played by the connected commercial unit thereafter. This can be prevented.

  The response of the counting history response is to notify the counting history to the CU 3F, and the P unit 2F receives the counting history request command and transmits the counting history information stored in the P unit 2F to the CU 3F. . The count history response includes data of “serial number”, “command”, “count history result”, “count history 1”, and “count history 2”. “Serial number” and “command” are the same as described above, and therefore description thereof will not be repeated.

  “Counting history result” is information indicating whether or not the counting history is stored in the P table 2F by the counting history process in the P table 2F. Here, the counting history is a history of the number of game balls paid out to the CU3F side as the number of counting request balls from the P table 2F side during the period from the counting request ON state to the counting request OFF state. “Card ID”, “Counting receipt time” included when receiving a count receipt response (count response ON) from the CU3F, and the cumulative number of count balls dispensed up to the count request OFF state “cumulative count balls” It also includes information on “number”. Note that the P platform 2F holds the history of the past two times (the history of the number of game balls in the period from the counting request ON state to the counting request OFF state is one time).

  In the count history result, “0x00” indicates that there is no history, “0x01” indicates that there is a history (with information on count history 1), and “0x02” indicates that there is a history (with information on count history 2).

  “Counting history 1” is the most recent history (final counting) of the past two histories, and includes information on “card ID”, “counting reception time”, “cumulative counting ball number”, and “game ball number”. Is included. “Card ID” is identification information of the card inserted into the CU 3F at the time of counting request. The “count reception time” is the time when the CU 3F receives the number of game balls requested to be counted from the P stand 2F. The “cumulative counting ball number” is the cumulative number of counting balls counted during the period from the counting request ON state to the counting request OFF state. The “number of game balls” is the number of game balls held on the P stand 2F at the end of counting.

  “Counting history 2” is an old history (counting immediately before the last counting) of the past two times, and includes “card ID”, “counting reception time”, “cumulative counting ball number” and “game ball”. Contains number information. The information of “card ID”, “counting reception time”, “cumulative counting ball number”, and “game ball number” is the same type of information as included in “counting history 1”, and detailed description thereof will not be repeated. .

  Next, conditions for outputting the count history data held by the P platform 2F to the CU 3F will be described. When the P store 2F matches the “store code” and “SC board ID” held in the “store code” and “SC board ID” included in the count history request command received from the CU 3F in the counting history sequence, The “counting history result”, “counting history 1”, and “counting history 2” are included in the response of the counting history response and output to the CU 3F. Further, if the “store code” stored in the count history request command received from the CU 3F matches the “store code” stored in the P table 2F, even if the “SC board ID” is different, the count history response Including “counting history result”, “counting history 1”, and “counting history 2” in the response to the CU3F. This takes into account changing the combination of P stand 2F and CU 3F in the store, and if it is in the same store, it is disadvantageous even if the counting history data stored in P stand 2F is transferred to another CU 3F Is not given.

  However, if the “store code” stored in the “store code” included in the count history request command received from the CU 3F is different from the “store code” stored in the P table 2F, It is prohibited to include the “counting history result”, “counting history 1”, and “counting history 2” in the response of the response to output to the CU 3F. Even if the same CU3F is moved to another store, even if it is connected to the P stand 2F holding the same “SC board ID”, if the counting history data is taken over, it is disadvantageous to the other store. It is because there is a possibility of giving.

  Of course, the P base 2F outputs the counting history data stored in the P base 2F when not connected to the CU3F but connected to the game board development jig or the development unit, or when not connected to any unit. There is no. By restricting the output of the counting history data, the security of the game machine including the P machine 2F and the P machine 2F is enhanced.

<Main sequences processed between CU and P>
Next, based on FIG. 41 to FIG. 50, processing is performed between the CU 3F and the P base 2F by processing executed by the CPU mounted on the CU control unit 323F and the CPU mounted on the payout control board 17F. The main sequence will be described.

<< Send command and response >>
First, transmission of commands and responses between the CU 3F and the P base 2F will be described. A command is transmitted from the CU3F (primary station) to the P station 2F (secondary station), and the P station 2F returns a response to the CU3F in response to the command. In other words, the transmission of the business message is a command / response system in which the CU 3F is the primary station and the P stand 2F is the secondary station.

  The period from the transmission of the first command to the P stand 2F from the CU 3F to the transmission of the next command is controlled to 200 ms, that is, 0.2 seconds. Further, the period from the transmission of the response from the P stand 2F to the CU 3F until the transmission of the next response is controlled to 200 ms, that is, 0.2 seconds.

  Thus, both a command and a response are transmitted at intervals of 200 ms between the CU 3F and the P stand 2F. On the other hand, by operating the hitting operation handle 25F, the P platform 2F hits 100 pachinko balls into the game area 27F per minute, so the hitting time interval is 0.6 seconds. As a result, a plurality of commands and responses are transmitted and received while firing one ball.

  Therefore, responses for notifying the amount of change in the number of game balls are sequentially transmitted from the P platform 2F to the CU 3F at intervals shorter than the ball firing time interval. As a result, the P stand 2F can notify the CU 3F of the amount of change in the number of game balls.

  Here, the transmission interval of the command and the response is set to 200 ms, but the transmission interval may be longer or shorter than this. For example, the transmission interval may be a firing time interval of the P base 2F. It is also possible to match with

<< Communication line disconnection detection on CU side >>
Next, processing when communication disconnection is detected on the CU3F side will be described. When the response is not received within 200 ms after the CU 3F transmits the command to the P base 2F, the same command is transmitted to the P base 2F again. Further, if no response is received within 200 ms, a second retransmission is performed in which the same command is transmitted to the P platform 2F. The same command is retransmitted up to 14 times on the P platform 2F. If a response is not received from the P platform 2F even after the 14th retransmission, the CU 3F determines that the communication is abnormal after 3 seconds and sets “communication cut off”. This communication abnormality may be caused when the connector of the CU 3F is disconnected from the connector of the P base 2F, or the connection wiring is disconnected or the power supply of the P base 2F is cut off. The CU3F does not increment the serial number when retransmitting the command.

<< Communication line disconnection detection on P side >>
Processing when communication disconnection is detected on the P platform 2F side will be described. A command is transmitted from the CU 3F to the P base 2F, and the P base 2F returns a response to the CU 3F in response to the command. After that, when the state in which the command from the CU 3F is not transmitted to the P stand 2F continues for 3 seconds, the P stand 2F determines that the communication is cut off, stops the driving of the firing motor 18F, and stops the game. The cause of this communication disconnection may be the disconnection of the CU3F connector and the P-base 2F connector, disconnection of the connection wiring, or the power supply disconnection of the CU3F.

  The command and response for detecting communication disconnection on the P platform 2F side include recovery request / recovery response, recovery request 2 / recovery response 2, communication start request / communication start response, notification end request / communication end response, and communication. Does not include test request / communication test response command and response.

<< Power-on >>
Next, connection sequence processing at power-on will be described. The sequence process shown in FIG. 41 is a process that is executed when communication is resumed after the communication between the CU 3F and the P stand 2F has ended normally. More specifically, it is executed when communication is resumed after the power of the CU3F is turned off while the card is not inserted. A typical example is a case where the power supply is turned off at the amusement hall after one day of business is finished, and the power supply is turned on at the start of business the next day.

  First, power is turned on. When the power is turned on, the P base 2F stops the firing motor 18F to stop the game, and then starts communication. Thereafter, an authentication sequence is started, and information including the main chip ID and the payout chip ID is transmitted from the P platform 2F to the CU 3F. The CU3F sends the received main chip ID and payout chip ID to the upper management server, asks whether the main chip ID and the payout chip ID are properly registered, and has the result returned. . If it is properly registered, an appropriate authentication result is obtained.

  After the authentication sequence, the counting history sequence shown in FIG. 19 is started, and when a counting history request command is transmitted from the CU 3F to the P base 2F, the counting history data stored in the P base 2F is transmitted to the CU 3F. . After the counting history sequence, the CU 3F transmits a recovery request including the previous last transmission sequence number and the last last transmission count sequence number to the P unit 2F, and requests recovery information from the P unit 2F. The P base 2F refers to the previous last transmission count serial number notified from the CU 3F and executes the count recovery process. Specifically, the P base 2F refers to the last transmission count sequence number last time, and if the CU 3F has not performed the counting process, it is assumed that no counting request has been made, and if the CU 3F has already performed the counting process, Subtract the number of balls from the previous number of game balls to determine the game balls.

  After executing the count recovery process, the P table 2F returns the game information recovery data backed up inside the P table 2F (specifically, the payout control board 17F) to the CU 3F as a response (recovery response). The recovery information includes a previous last transmission sequence number, a previously inserted card ID, a previous card insertion time, a previous last transmission addition sequence number, a previous game machine information, and the like.

  In the CU3F that has received the recovery response, if the previous last transmission addition serial number process included in the recovery information has not been executed, the CU3F additional recovery process is performed using the previous game machine information included in the recovery information. When performing the addition ball recovery process, the CU 3F transmits a recovery request 2 to the P unit 2F and transmits recovery data to the P unit 2F. This recovery data includes the previous last transmission serial number and the number of additional balls.

  In response to this, the P base 2F executes an addition recovery process based on the received recovery data, and returns the result as a response to the CU 3F (recovery response 2). In addition, when the P stand 2F cannot receive the additional number of balls, a recovery process NG is returned as a recovery result.

  This recovery process is a process for recovering the consistency of each other's data between the CU 3F and the P stand 2F, and is executed not only when the power is turned on, but also when a trouble occurs and is recovered. Executed.

  The CU3F counts up the serial number each time a command such as a recovery request is transmitted. However, it does not count up when retransmitting a command. When the P unit 2F receives a command having the same serial number as the previously received serial number, it determines that a communication failure has occurred and the CU 3F has retransmitted the command. The CU 3F transmits a command, and backs up the sequence number when a response with the same sequence number is notified from the P unit 2F. When transmitting a response corresponding to the received command, the P base 2F notifies the CU 3F of the received serial number as it is. The P base 2F backs up the serial number when the response is transmitted.

  After the authentication sequence is completed, the CU 3F transmits a recovery request command to the P platform 2F with the serial number “1”. The P platform 2F returns the received serial number “1” as it is to the CU 3F as a response to the recovery response. Further, the CU 3F transmits a recovery request 2 command to the P unit 2F with a serial number “2”. The P platform 2F returns the response of the recovery response 2 to the CU 3F as it is with the received serial number “2”.

  Thereafter, the CU 3F counts up the serial number to “3”, and transmits a communication start request command to the P unit 2F. When the CU 3F does not transmit the recovery request 2, the serial number is “2” which is one countdown (−1). In response to this, the P unit 2F clears the recovery data. Then, the P platform 2F returns a response to the communication start response to the CU 3F with the received serial number “3”. Thereafter, a status information request command and a status information response response are transmitted and received between the CU 3F and the P stand 2F.

  The CU 3F counts up the serial number to “4” and transmits a status information request command to the P unit 2F. The status information request command includes information on the unit price of the balls. By transmitting the ball unit price to the P stand 2F, the P stand 2F can recognize whether the game ball is playing at 4 yen per ball or whether the game is played at 1 yen per ball. . In addition, since the status information request command is transmitted in a cycle of 200 ms as described above, it is possible to transmit information on the unit price of the ball up to three times to the P stand 2F during the cycle of 600 ms that the game ball is fired. is there. Therefore, it is possible to change the unit price for each game ball played on the P platform 2F. If the unit price can be managed for each game ball in a small number (for example, one ball unit), the player's request (for example, a desire to play a game slowly with a small amount, or the remaining number of game balls in a short time) It is possible to provide a variety of games tailored to the demand for consumption. The command for the status information request transmitted from the CU 3F to the P stand 2F described below includes the ball unit price information, but is not specified when the information on the unit price is not directly related to the content of the sequence to be described. In response to this, the P table 2F updates the game table information, the game information, and the previous last transmission serial number, and backs up the updated data every time a response of the status information response is transmitted. Then, the P platform 2F returns the response of the status information response to the CU 3F with the received serial number “4”. The response of the status information response does not include information on the unit price of the ball. This prevents illegally changing the information of the ball unit price currently being played on the P stand 2F and sending it to the CU 3F and illegally managing the ball unit price of the game ball managed by the CU 3F. . Thereby, the security of the game system can be improved.

  In response to this, the CU3F updates the previous last transmission sequence number, and backs up the updated data every time a response to the status information response is received.

  Thereafter, the CU3F counts up the serial number to “5” and transmits a status information request command to the P unit 2F, and the P unit 2F sends the response of the status information response to the CU3F with the received serial number “5”. Reply to

<< Card insertion >>
Processing of the CU 3F and the P stand 2F when a card is inserted will be described. The CU 3F shown in FIG. 42 transmits a status information request command including a serial number = n and a card return ready state = OFF to the P table 2F before card insertion. In response to this, the P unit 2F returns a response of the status information response including serial number = n and game prohibition to the CU 3F.

  Thereafter, in the CU3F, when a card is inserted, the card reader / writer outputs a command signal for taking the card into the card reader / writer, and the card reader / writer reads information (card ID, etc.) recorded in the taken-in card. A process at the time of card insertion, such as receiving the read information, is executed. Note that information (card ID or the like) recorded on the card read by the card reader / writer may be stored in the CU3F.

  The CU3F is in a card information inquiry state for a predetermined period after the card is inserted. This is in the midst of verifying whether the inserted card is appropriate, whether it is a membership card registered at the game hall, or inquiring the hall server 801F, for example, holding balls, storage balls, and the remaining amount of the card. This means that the process of displaying the fact on the display 312F and displaying on the display 54F on the P platform 2F side is being executed.

  Since the CU 3F does not authenticate the inserted card while displaying that the inserted card is being inquired on the display 312F, the status information request including the serial number = n + 1 and the card return ready state = OFF. Is sent to the P platform 2F. In response to this, the P unit 2F returns a response of the status information response including serial number = n + 1 and game prohibition to the CU 3F. The display 54F on the P platform 2F side is controlled by the display control unit 350F of the CU 3F to display that the card is being inquired.

  After that, when the inserted card is authenticated, the CU 3F stores the card ID and the card insertion time of the card in the RAM of the CU control unit 323F, and the serial number = n + 2, the card ID, the card insertion time, and the store code. And a card insertion notification command including the SC board ID is transmitted to the P base 2F. The store code and the SC board ID are information added to the command when the card insertion notification command passes through the security board 325F. In response to this, the P unit 2F backs up the received card ID, card insertion time, store code, and SC board ID data to the RAM of the payout control unit 171F, and a response to the card insertion response including the serial number = n + 2 Is returned to CU3F. Also in CU3F, the card ID of the inserted card is stored in the RAM or the like of CU control unit 323F.

  In response to this, the CU 3F sends a status information request command including a serial number = n + 3 and a card return ready state = ON to the P unit 2F, thereby notifying the P unit 2F that the card is being inserted. . The P unit 2F receives the notification that the card is being inserted, permits the game, and returns a response of the status information response including the serial number = n + 3 and the game permission to the CU3F. To notify.

  While the card is being inserted, the CU 3F transmits a status information request command including a serial number = n + 4 and a card return ready state = ON to the P unit 2F. The P unit 2F responds with a status information response including a serial number = n + 4 and a game permission. Is returned to CU3F.

  Further, a case where a card insertion notification command is transmitted from the CU 3F to the P platform 2F during card insertion will be described. First, the CU 3F transmits a card insertion notification command including a serial number = n + x, a card ID, a card insertion time, a store code, and an SC board ID to the P unit 2F. When a card insertion notification command is transmitted during card insertion, the transmitted card ID and card insertion time are often different from the card ID and card insertion time of the card being inserted, and are stored in the P base 2F. There is a high possibility that fraud that intentionally changes the current card ID or the card insertion time has been performed.

  In response to this, the P table 2F does not back up the received card ID, card insertion time, store code, and SC board ID data to the RAM or the like of the payout control unit 171F. Whether or not the card is being inserted in the P stand 2F can be easily determined based on the card return preparation state = ON information included in the state information request command.

  Next, the P base 2F returns a response of the card insertion response including the serial number = n + x to the CU 3F without performing backup of the received card ID, card insertion time, and the like. Note that the CU3F does not store the card ID, the card insertion time, and the like transmitted by the card insertion notification command in the RAM of the CU control unit 323F. Thereby, the card ID is intentionally transmitted to the P base 2F during the card insertion, and the illegal action such as falsification of the card ID stored in the P base 2F can be prevented, and security is improved. Can do.

  FIG. 43 is a flowchart showing processing at the time of insertion executed by the CU 3F when a card is inserted into the CU 3F. In the present embodiment, the steps indicated by broken lines indicate the control contents of the modification. The solid arrows indicate the flow of control, and the two-pointed arrows indicate the flow of information to be transmitted. In FIG. 43, CU3F performs each step of S1-S7. Further, S8 to S10 and S12 to S15 are executed by the P stand 2F. More specifically, the deletion process of S8 to S10, S12, S13, and S15 is executed by an effect control board provided on the P base 2F, and the transmission process of S14 and S15 is provided with an effect control unit. The effect control board transmits to the payout control unit 171F, and the payout control unit 171F transmits to the CU3F.

  First, in step (hereinafter simply referred to as S) 1, the CU determines whether or not it is interrupted. Whether or not the game is being interrupted is determined based on whether or not an interrupt operation has been performed and a game interruption sequence has been executed. If it is suspended, it is determined in S2 whether or not the C-ID and type of the inserted card matches the C-ID and type of the suspended card. If not, the process proceeds to S5. The inserted card is ejected and a transition is made to standby. In FIG. 43, the “type” is not shown.

  On the other hand, if the C-ID and type of the inserted card and the C-ID and type of the interrupted card match, the interrupted player returns to the gaming machine and starts the game. Therefore, the control advances to S4, the suspended state is canceled, and the process of restarting the game is executed in S6.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in S1 that it is not interrupted, it is determined in S3a whether or not a card is already inserted. Whether or not the card is being inserted is determined based on whether or not the card reader provided in the card insertion / discharge port 309F accepts the card. If it is determined in S3a that the card is not being inserted, the process of storing the C-ID and type of the inserted card and transmitting it to the P table 2F is performed in S3. In the P stand 2F, the C-ID and type are received, and the received C-ID and type and the C-ID and type stored in the backup area (for example, a backup data storage unit provided on the production control board). Are compared (S8). Then, in S9, it is determined whether or not the comparison results match. If they do not match, it is determined that a player different from the player who has left the seat has started playing, and the subroutine program for this insertion processing ends. .

  If it is determined in S3a that the card is being inserted, in order to prevent the C-ID and type different from the C-ID and type of the card being inserted from being overwritten and stored in the CU3F or P stand 2F, S3 Skip processing in.

  In this way, the player identification information storage means (current player game history data storage section) for storing the player identification information (C-ID) and the same determination means (S8, S9) for performing the same determination processing are used. Therefore, it is not necessary to provide the same determination processing function on the communication means side (the payout control part 171F side), and the display control means is sufficient. A common communication means can be used between the gaming machine having the game machine and the game machine having no display control means.

  In addition, you may perform the process of S15 and S7 as control content of a modification. Through S15, the game history data, C-ID, and type stored in the backup area (backup data storage unit) are transmitted to CU3F and then deleted. The CU3F receives it and transmits the received data to the hall server (upper server) 801. The hall server 801F backs up the received game history data, C-ID, and type.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that they match in S9, the process proceeds to S12, in which the game history data in the backup area (backup data storage) is returned to the current area (for example, the backup data storage unit provided on the effect control board), and the game history is recorded. The addition update of the game history data is newly started from the data.

  In addition, you may perform the process of S10, S13, and S14 as a control content of a modification. If YES in S9, the control proceeds to S10, where it is determined whether or not a predetermined time (for example, 20 minutes) has elapsed since the previous card was ejected. If it is determined that the game history data, the game history data, the C-ID, and the type in the backup area (backup data storage unit) are deleted in S13. Further, after S12, a notification that the players are the same is transmitted to the CU in S14. In addition, as a control content of a modification, you may control to perform all the processes of S10, S13, S14 and the processes of S15, S7.

  The conditions for overwriting (updating) the card ID and insertion time will be described in more detail. As described above, the card ID and the insertion time are prohibited from being updated during card insertion. As a prohibiting condition, the relationship between the card insertion notification command and the CU status included in the status information request command will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 44 is a conceptual diagram for explaining the relationship among the card insertion notification command, the CU state included in the state information request command, and the card insertion state.

  First, FIG. 44 (a) shows an example in which the CU state included in the status information request command is in the card insertion state (Bit0 = "1") before the P table 2F receives the card insertion notification command. ing. The state (1) shown in FIG. 44 (a) is a card insertion wait state, and the P unit 2F has not received the card insertion notification command, and the CU state included in the state information request command transmitted from the CU 3F. Is when the card is not being inserted (Bit0 = "0"). In this case, since the CU 3F is not inserting the card, the P base 2F can overwrite the card ID and the insertion time.

  Next, the state (2) shown in FIG. 44A is a card insertion preparation state, and the card insertion notification command is not received by the P base 2F, but is included in the state information request command transmitted from the CU 3F. This is a case where the CU state to be inserted is card insertion (Bit0 = "1"). Also in this case, since the CU 3F is not inserting the card, the P base 2F can overwrite the card ID and the insertion time. The state (3) shown in FIG. 44 (a) is a state during card insertion, and the P unit 2F receives a card insertion notification command, and the CU state included in the state information request command transmitted from the CU 3F is the card. This is the case during insertion (Bit 0 = “1”). In this case, the P base 2F is prohibited from overwriting the card ID and the insertion time because the CU 3F is inserting the card.

  Next, the state (4) shown in FIG. 44A is a card return preparation state, and the P table 2F has not received the card return notification command, but is included in the state information request command transmitted from the CU 3F. This is a case where the CU state to be displayed is not card insertion (Bit0 = "0"). In this case, overwriting of the card ID and the insertion time is prohibited in the P base 2F on the assumption that the CU 3F has not yet returned the card and the card is being inserted. The state (5) shown in FIG. 44 (a) is a card return state, and the card unit 2F receives the card return notification command, and the CU state included in the state information request command transmitted from the CU 3F is the card insertion. This is the case (Bit 0 = "0"). In this case, since the CU 3F is not inserting the card, the P base 2F can overwrite the card ID and the insertion time.

  FIG. 44 (b) shows an example in which the CU state included in the status information request command becomes the card insertion state (Bit0 = “1”) after the P unit 2F receives the card insertion notification command. The state (1) ′ shown in FIG. 44 (b) is a card insertion waiting state, and the P unit 2F has not received the card insertion notification command, and the CU included in the state information request command transmitted from the CU 3F. This is a case where the card is not being inserted (Bit0 = "0"). In this case, since the CU 3F is not inserting the card, the P base 2F can overwrite the card ID and the insertion time.

  Next, state (2) ′ shown in FIG. 44 (b) is a card insertion preparation state, and the P unit 2F receives the card insertion notification command, but is included in the state information request command transmitted from the CU 3F. This is a case where the CU state is not card insertion (Bit0 = "0"). Also in this case, since the CU 3F is not inserting the card, the P base 2F can overwrite the card ID and the insertion time. The state (3) ′ shown in FIG. 44 (b) is a state in which a card is being inserted. When the P unit 2F receives a card insertion notification command, the CU state included in the state information request command transmitted from the CU 3F This is the case when the card is being inserted (Bit0 = "1"). In this case, the P base 2F is prohibited from overwriting the card ID and the insertion time because the CU 3F is inserting the card.

  Next, the state (4) ′ shown in FIG. 44B is a card return preparation state, and the P table 2F has not received the card return notification command, but the state information request command sent from the CU 3F This is a case where the included CU state is not card insertion (Bit0 = "0"). In this case, overwriting of the card ID and insertion time is prohibited for the P base 2F on the assumption that the card is being inserted because the CU 3F has not yet returned the card. The state (5) ′ shown in FIG. 44 (b) is a card return state. When the P table 2F receives the card return notification command, the CU state included in the state information request command transmitted from the CU 3F is the card. This is a case where no insertion is in progress (Bit0 = "0"). In this case, since the CU 3F is not inserting the card, the P base 2F can overwrite the card ID and the insertion time.

  In this way, by limiting the conditions for overwriting (updating) the card ID and insertion time, the card ID or the like is intentionally transmitted to the P base 2F, and the card ID stored in the P base 2F is falsified. It is possible to prevent fraudulent acts such as doing and improve security.

<< Prepaid loan >>
Next, a process for lending a game ball from the prepaid balance of the inserted card will be described. In the sequence process shown in FIG. 45, the prepaid balance recorded on the inserted card is 500 yen, and the number of game balls is 50 balls. First, the CU 3F transmits a status information request command including a serial number = n, a game ball addition request = OFF, and an addition serial number = m to the P unit 2F. In response to this, the P stand 2F returns a response of the state information response including the serial number = n, the number of game balls = 50, and the additional serial number = m to the CU 3F. In this way, the addition sequence number is not updated while the addition request is not generated.

  Thereafter, when the player performs a lending operation (ball lending operation) in which the “lending” button is pressed once, the CU 3F lends the remaining amount of 500 yen, that is, 125 balls. When the ball lending button (lending button) 321F is pressed, the CU 3F confirms prepaid consumption for 500 yen and backs up the data of the number of added balls = 125. In this way, the remaining amount consumption is determined on the CU3F side alone at the stage where the lending operation is performed. Thereafter, the CU3F is being displayed for addition. During this addition display, the display unit 54F displays that 125 balls have been withdrawn from the remaining amount and are being added to the game balls.

  Next, the CU 3F makes a game ball addition request to the P stand 2F. Therefore, the CU 3F transmits a status information request command including the serial number = n + 1, the game ball addition request = ON, the number of additional balls = 125, and the addition serial number = m + 1 to the P unit 2F. The serial number is incremented to “n + 1” and the addition number of game balls is requested, so that the additional serial number is also incremented to “m + 1”. The CU 3F counts up the addition sequence number to “m + 1”, updates the previous last transmission addition sequence number to “m + 1”, and backs up the data. In response to this, the P stand 2F updates the number of game balls to the number of game balls = 50 (current number of game balls) +125 (number of additional balls) = 175, and updates the last transmission addition serial number to “m + 1”. Back up the data. Since the P stand 2F notifies the CU 3F of the number of game balls = 175 and the game ball addition result = OK, the serial number = n + 1, the number of addition balls = 175, the game ball addition result = OK, and the addition serial number = m + 1. The response of the status information response including it is returned to CU3F. Since it is a response to the game ball addition request, the addition serial number is not counted up and is set to “m + 1” as it is.

  Thereafter, the CU 3F transmits a status information request command including a serial number = n + 2, a game ball addition request = OFF and an addition serial number = m + 1 to the P unit 2F, and the P unit 2F has a serial number = n + 5, the number of additional balls = 175, and A response of the status information response including the addition serial number = m + 1 is returned to the CU3F. When the game ball addition request is OFF, the status information request and the status information response count up the serial number, but do not count up the additional serial number.

≪Mochitama payout and savings ball payout (replay) ≫
Next, the process of paying out and holding out the stored balls will be described. In FIG. 49, the initial number of game balls is 50. First, the CU 3F transmits a status information request command including a serial number = n, a game ball addition request = OFF, and an addition serial number = m to the P unit 2F. In response to this, the P stand 2F returns a response of the status information response including the serial number = n, the number of game balls = 50, and the additional serial number = m to the CU 3F. In this way, the addition sequence number is not updated while the addition request is not generated.

  After that, when the player presses the holding ball payout button or the replay button 319F in a state where there is a holding ball or a storage ball, the CU 3F determines the consumption of 125 balls from the holding ball or the storage ball. As described above, the consumption of the holding balls or the storage balls is determined on the CU3F side alone at the stage where the operation of pressing the holding ball payout button or the replay button 319F is performed. In addition, when both the holding ball and the storage ball exist, consumption of the holding ball is given priority.

  In place of the control to prioritize the holding ball, a storage ball replay button and a holding ball replay button are provided, and the player can select and operate either the storage ball consumption or the holding ball consumption by operating the selection. You may do it. In other words, the replay button is used to obtain a game ball (game point) from a stored ball (stored medal) and a game ball (game point) from a stored ball (stored medal) replay button. You may comprise two with a holding ball (pointing) replay button.

  CU3F notifies the addition request | requirement of the number of additional balls = 125 to the P stand 2F after confirming the consumption from a holding ball or a storage ball. Specifically, the CU 3F displays that a game ball addition process is in progress, and sends a status information request command including serial number = n + 1, game ball addition request = ON, number of additional balls = 125, and addition serial number = m + 1. Transmit to P platform 2F. In order to make a game ball addition request, the serial number is counted up to “n + 1”, and the additional serial number is also counted up to “m + 1”. Further, the CU 3F updates the previous last transmission addition serial number to “m + 1” and backs up the data. In response to this, the P stand 2F updates the number of game balls to the number of game balls = 50 (current number of game balls) +125 (number of additional balls) = 175, and updates the last transmission addition serial number to “m + 1”. Back up the data. Then, the P stand 2F returns a response of the state information response including the serial number = n + 1, the number of additional balls = 175, the game ball addition result = OK and the additional serial number = m + 1 to the CU 3F. Since this is a response to a game ball addition request, the addition serial number is not counted up and remains “m + 1”.

  Thereafter, the CU 3F transmits a status information request command including a serial number = n + 2, a game ball addition request = OFF and an addition serial number = m + 1 to the P unit 2F, and the P unit 2F has a serial number = n + 2, an additional ball number = 175 and A response of the status information response including the addition serial number = m + 1 is returned to the CU3F.

<< Game Ball Count (Normal) >>
Next, the normal counting process of counting and subtracting a part of the game balls will be described. FIG. 47 shows a case where the count button is pressed without detecting a card return operation. Therefore, all the bits in the card return ready state transmitted from the CU 3F to the P stand 2F are OFF (= 0). For this reason, description of the bits in the card return preparation state is omitted below.

  In FIG. 47, the number of balls specified by the inserted recording medium (member card or visitor card) is “0” balls, and the initial number of game balls is “800” balls. Yes.

  Here, an example will be described in which counting in units of 100 points continues while the operation of the counting button is detected, and the counting operation ends when the operation of the counting button is no longer detected.

  First, the CU 3F transmits a status information request command including a serial number = n, a card return ready state = OFF, a counting serial number = m, and a counting response = OFF to the P unit 2F. In response to this, the P stand 2F returns a response of the status information response including the serial number = n, the number of game balls = 800, the counting serial number = m, the counting ball number = 0, and the counting request = OFF to the CU 3F.

  For the serial number n transmitted from the CU 3F, the serial number n + 1 is returned from the P stand 2F. In response to the counting sequence number m transmitted from the CU 3F, the same counting sequence number m is returned from the P stand 2F. This is because the counting sequence number is a special sequence number that is updated when a counting request is generated, and is updated when the counting is completed.

  Thereafter, the player presses the counting button 28F. In FIG. 47, immediately after an operation of pressing the count button 28F once, a command for status information request including a serial number = n + 1, a card return ready state = OFF, a count serial number = m, and a count response = OFF is sent from the CU3F. It is transmitted to the P platform 2F.

  When the operation of the count button 28F is detected, the P platform 2F transmits a status information response of serial number n + 1 in which the count request value is specifically set to 100 as a response to the command of the status information request to the CU 3F. However, at this stage, the P base 2F does not execute counting for the counting request. For this reason, in the state information response of the serial number n + 1, the number of game balls is still 800. Since this status information response is a message indicating a counting request, the counting sequence number is counted up to “m + 1”. At this time, the P unit 2F updates the previous last transmission count sequence number, and backs up the updated last transmission count sequence number and the count request state ON data.

  CU3F which received the status information response of serial number n + 1 adds the number of balls equivalent to the requested number of balls and updates the display of balls to 100. That is, the CU control unit 323F transmits a count display command to the display control unit 350F. In response to the instruction, the display control unit 350F controls the display 54F on the P platform 2F side. As a result, the display 54F displays an image in which the number of game balls is counted and the number thereof decreases, while the number of holding balls increases.

  In this case, it is conceivable to perform an effect display such that game balls are guided and counted by each counter one by one. Another example of the effect display may be a display in which the number of game balls is converted to the number of balls in time. For example, the data for the number of balls and the data for the number of balls are shown in a bar graph, and the number of balls in the game ball number is increased while the number of balls in the game ball is increased while the number of balls in the game ball is decreased. The display to move to the bar graph may be repeated. In addition, as another example of the effect display, the current game ball number data and the number of possession balls data are digitally displayed as they are, and the number of possession balls is increased while decreasing the number of game balls, or a part of the number of game balls It is possible to repeat the display for moving the number of balls to the number of balls, and various display effects.

  Further, the CU 3F updates the previous last transmission count sequence number to “m + 1” and backs up the data. Subsequently, the CU 3F transmits a status information request with a serial number n + 2, a count serial number m + 1, and a count response = ON to the P platform 2F to notify that the requested count has been completed.

  Receiving this status information request, the P platform 2F finally subtracts the number of game balls by the number corresponding to the number of balls counted = 100, and updates the display of the game ball number display 29F from 800 to 700. At this stage, although the count request state of the P base 2F is OFF, since the count button is continuously pressed, the P base 2F transmits a second count request to the CU 3F. That is, a status information response of serial number n + 2 in which the count request value is specifically set to 100 is transmitted to CU3F. However, even at this stage, the P base 2F does not execute counting for the counting request. For this reason, in the status information response of the serial number n + 2, the number of game balls = 700. Since this status information response is a message transmitted as a new count request, the count sequence number is incremented to “m + 2”, the previous last transmission count sequence number is updated, and the updated last transmission count sequence number is updated. Back up data with counting request status ON.

  CU3F which received the status information response of serial number n + 2 adds the ball | bowl equivalent to the number of count balls requested | required, and updates the display of a ball | bowl to 200. Further, the CU 3F updates the previous last transmission count sequence number to “m + 2” and backs up the data. Subsequently, the CU 3F transmits a status information request with a serial number n + 3, a count serial number m + 2, and a count response = ON to the P platform 2F to notify that the requested count has been completed.

  The P table 2F that has received this status information request subtracts the number of game balls by the number corresponding to the number of counting balls = 100, and updates the display of the game ball number display 29F from 700 to 600. However, at this stage, the player's hand is separated from the counting button, and the counting operation is completed. For this reason, the P base 2F notifies the CU 3F of the completion of counting with a status information response of serial number n + 3. That is, with the current number of game balls = 600, a status information response of count request = OFF and count ball count = 0 is transmitted to the CU 3F. In addition, since all the counting operations corresponding to the counting request have been completed, the counting sequence number included in this status information response remains m + 2 and is not updated.

  CU3F which received this status information response determines with completion of counting. Although not shown, the CU 3F transmits a status information response of serial number n + 4, counting serial number m + 2, card return preparation state = OFF, and counting response = OFF to the P base 2F.

  As described above, in this embodiment, when the information state response for notifying the number of balls to be counted is transmitted from the P cars to the CU, the game balls for the counting balls are subtracted quickly on the P cards side. In the stage where the information status response for notifying the number of balls is transmitted and the receipt confirmation is received from the CU, the P machines subtract the game balls.

<< Counting history processing >>
Next, processing of count history data stored in the P platform 2F will be described. FIG. 48 is a sequence diagram for explaining processing of count history data stored in the P platform 2F. In FIG. 48, the initial number of game balls is 600 balls. First, the CU 3F transmits a status information request command including a serial number = n (not shown), a counting serial number = m, and a counting response = OFF to the P unit 2F. In the P platform 2F, the player operates the counting button 28F from the response of the status information response transmitted before receiving the status information request command until the response to the status information request command is transmitted. The counting process is started.

  Then, in the P stand 2F, the response of the status information response including the serial number = n (not shown), the number of game balls = 600, the counting serial number = m + 1, the counting ball number = 100 and the counting request = ON is returned to the CU 3F. Here, in the P platform 2F, the counting request is changed from the OFF state to the ON state, so the counting history processing is started. Specifically, the P stand 2F uses the history of the number of game balls paid out to the CU 3F side as the count request ball number from the P stand 2F side between the count request ON state and the count request OFF state as a count history for one time. Remember. That is, when there are a plurality of count requests, the history from the count request ON state to the count request OFF state is stored as the first count request as the first count request. Thereafter, as the second count request, the history from the count request ON state to the count request OFF state is stored as the second count history. Although depending on the period during which the count button 28F is pressed, a response to a status information response including a plurality of count request ON states is received between the count request ON state and the count request OFF state. It is returned to CU3F. The count history to be stored includes the “card ID” at the time of the count request, the “count reception time” included in the status information response of the count response ON state from the CU3F, and the number of balls that have been paid out until the count request is OFF. The information includes the cumulative number “cumulative counting ball number” and “game ball number” at the end of counting.

  Next, the CU 3F transmits a status information request command including a serial number = n + 1 (not shown), a count serial number = m + 1, and a count response = ON to the P-unit 2F to notify that the requested count has been completed. . At this stage, the number of balls counted = 100 is provisionally confirmed.

  Receiving this status information request, the P stand 2F subtracts the number of game balls by the number corresponding to the number of counted balls = 100, and the number of game balls is collated, and if it is 500 balls, the temporarily fixed 100 balls are confirmed. . Then, the display on the game ball number display 29F is updated from 600 to 500. Further, when the player continues to operate the counting button 28F, the P stand 2F has a serial number = n + 1 (not shown), the number of game balls = 500, the counting serial number = m + 2, the counting ball number = 100, and the counting request. A response of a status information response including = ON is returned to the CU3F. Next, the CU 3F sends a status information request command including a serial number = n + 2 (not shown), a count serial number = m + 2 and a count response = ON to the P unit 2F to notify that the requested count has been completed. . At this stage, the number of balls counted = 100 is provisionally confirmed.

  Receiving this status information request, the P stand 2F subtracts the number of game balls by the number corresponding to the number of counting balls = 100, and the number of game balls is collated, and if it is 400 balls, the temporarily fixed 100 balls are fixed. . Then, the display on the game ball number display 29F is updated from 600 to 500. After that, when the operation of the counting button 28F by the player is finished, the P stand 2F has a serial number = n + 2 (not shown), the number of game balls = 400, the counting serial number = m + 3, the number of counting balls = 100 and the counting request. = Response of status information response including OFF is returned to CU3F. When the P stand 2F is changed to the counting request OFF state, the counting history stores 100 balls + 100 balls = 200 balls as the counting history 1 as the “cumulative counting ball number”. Further, the P stand 2F stores the number of game balls when changed to the count request OFF state in the counting history 1 as the “number of game balls” at the end of counting. Further, the P base 2F stores the “count reception time” included in the state information response of the count response ON state from the CU 3F in the count history 1. When a new history is stored in the counting history 1, if the counting history 1 already exists, the counting history 1 is stored as the counting history 2 and then the new history is stored in the counting history 1. . In addition, since the history for the past two times is stored in the P platform 2F, it is stored as the counting history 1 and the counting history 2, but even if the history for the past one time or the history for the past three times or more is stored. Good.

  As described above, it is possible to recover the number of game balls counted by storing the counting history, and it is possible to improve the accuracy of the recovery processing by storing a plurality of past pieces.

<< Game Ball Count (Card Return) >>
Next, the game ball counting process when returning the card will be described. FIG. 49 is a sequence diagram for explaining the counting process when the player performs a card return operation. In FIG. 49, the number of cards held by the inserted recording medium (member card or the like) is 0, and the initial number of gaming balls is 800. First, the CU 3F transmits a status information request command including a serial number = n, a CU opening state = ON, a card return preparation state = OFF, a counting sequence number = m, and a counting response = OFF to the P unit 2F. In response to this, the P stand 2F returns a response of the status information response including the serial number = n, the number of game balls = 800, the counting serial number = m, the counting ball number = 0, and the counting request = OFF to the CU 3F.

  Thereafter, when the player stops the game or moves to another game table, the player presses the “card return” button. However, when the player presses the “return card” button, the number of game balls in the P stand 2F is 800 balls, and the CU 3F determines that the number of game balls in the P stand 2F is not zero. Further, since the player presses the “card return” button, the CU3F sets the card return ready state = ON, and the state information request including the serial number = n + 1, the CU opening state = ON, the counting sequence number = m, and the counting response = OFF. A command is transmitted to P unit 2F. Note that the CU 3F notifies the P stand 2F of the card return preparation state = ON notification for 10 seconds. Furthermore, since the number of game balls in the P stand 2F is 800 balls and not 0 balls, the CU 3F displays a display for prompting a counting operation on the display 54F or the like as a card return standby.

  In response to the display prompting the counting operation, the player presses the counting button 28F to perform an operation of converting the game ball into a holding ball. The P stand 2F determines that the counting operation for pressing the counting button 28F is a counting operation with the card return ready state = ON, and processes the counting in a lump instead of counting in units of 100 balls, for example.

  In order to notify the CU3F of a counting acceptance number of 800 balls, and a counting acceptance number request for 800 gaming balls, the P stand 2F has a serial number = n + 1, a gaming ball number = 800, a counting serial number = The response of the status information response including m + 1, the number of counting balls = 800 and the counting request = ON is returned to the CU3F. However, at this stage, the P base 2F does not execute counting for the counting request. For this reason, in the state information response of the serial number n + 1, the number of game balls is still 800. Further, since this status information response is a count request message, the P unit 2F counts up the count sequence number to “m + 1”, updates the previous last transmission count sequence number, and updates the previous last transmission count sequence number. Back up data with counting request status ON.

  In response to this, the CU3F adds the counted number of 800 balls to the number of held balls, and subtracts the counted number of 800 balls from the gaming ball number of 800 balls to 0 balls. Further, the CU3F backs up the updated data of the last transmission count sequence number last time. Then, in order to notify the receipt of the counting ball, the CU 3F sends a command for status information request including serial number = n + 2, CU store opening state = ON, card return ready state = ON, counting serial number = m + 1 and counting response = ON. Send to.

  In response to the response from the CU 3F, the P stand 2F subtracts the counting ball number 800 from the gaming ball number 800 and displays the gaming ball number 0 on the display 54F or the like. Further, the P stand 2F notifies the CU 3F that the number of game balls is 0 and counting is completed, so that the sequence number = n + 2, the number of game balls = 0, the count sequence number = m + 1, the count ball number = 0, and the count request = OFF. A response of the status information response including is returned to the CU3F. Since the counting request is turned OFF, the counting sequence number remains m + 1 and is transmitted to the CU 3F without counting up.

  The CU3F counts the number of game balls by pressing the count button 28F and counting the number of game balls in a lump before 10 seconds have elapsed since the player pressed the card return button 322F, that is, in the card return preparation state. Card is returned to 0, so card return processing is executed. That is, the CU 3F transmits a card return notification command including the serial number = n + 3 to the P unit 2F. In response to this, the P stand 2F returns a response of a card return response including the serial number = n + 3, the card ID held on the payout control board 17F, and the card insertion time to the CU 3F. After returning the card ID and the card insertion time to the CU 3F, the card ID and the card insertion time data held in the payout control board 17F are cleared.

  In response to this, the CU 3F performs a match determination between the card ID stored in the inserted card and the card ID received from the P stand 2F, and if it matches, returns the inserted card. If they do not match, error processing is performed and reported to the hall server 801F or the like. When the card IDs match, the CU 3F stores the number of balls 800 in the card (inserted card) that has been inserted into the card insertion / discharge port 309F and returns the card to the player. In addition, when the player starts the game by depositing without inserting the card into the card insertion / discharge slot 309F, the card (stock card) stocked in the card stock section provided in the CU3F Store the number of balls 800 and return the card to the player. When the inserted card or stock card is returned, the CU3F transmits the card ID of the card and the data of the number of balls to the hall server 801F, and the hall server 801F associates the card ID of the card with the data of the number of balls. May be stored.

  Thereafter, since the card returned from the CU 3F can be removed from the card insertion / discharge port 309F, a part of the card is held in a state of protruding from the card insertion / discharge port 309F (card removal possible state). The CU 3F has a sensor that can determine whether or not the card can be removed in the vicinity of the card insertion / ejecting port 309F. If the sensor signal is in the ON state, the CU 3F is determined to be in the card removal possible state. If it is in the OFF state, it is determined that the card removal is complete.

  When the card return process is executed and the card can be removed, the CU 3F notifies the P stand 2F of information indicating that the card return ready state is OFF and the card is waiting to be removed. Therefore, the CU 3F sends a status information request command including the serial number = n + 4, the CU opening state = ON, the card return ready state = OFF, waiting for card removal = ON, the counting serial number = m + 1, and the counting response = OFF to the P unit 2F. Send. In response to this, the P stand 2F displays “Please remove the card” on the variable display device 278F to the player in order to prevent forgetting to remove the card. Moreover, in order to notify the card removal, the P base 2F may turn on the LED or output a voice message “Please remove the card” with a speaker. Further, the P stand 2F transmits a status information response command including a serial number = n + 4, a game ball number = 0, a count serial number = m + 1, a count ball number = 0, and a count response = OFF to the CU 3F. The CU3F not only notifies the P stand 2F that the card can be removed, but also a hall computer that is a device connected to the CU 3F or the P stand 2F, a call lamp mounted on the P stand 2F. The device may be notified that the card can be removed. Thereby, it is possible to further prevent the user from forgetting to remove the card (removal of the recording medium) by notifying other than the CU 3F and the P stand 2F that the card can be removed.

  If the sensor attached in the vicinity of the card insertion / discharge port 309F is in an ON state, the CU 3F transmits a command for requesting a state information including “Waiting for card removal = ON” to the P base 2F. However, when the player removes the card from the card insertion / discharge port 309F, the sensor attached in the vicinity of the card insertion / discharge port 309F is turned off, so that the CU3F is waiting for the serial number = n + 5 and the card removal = OFF A command for requesting the status information including is transmitted to the P base 2F.

  In response to this, the P base 2F stops displaying “please remove the card” displayed on the variable display device 278F, and terminates the card removal notification. The notification of card removal is continued until a status information request command including ON card waiting = ON is received until a status information request command including OFF card waiting = OFF is received. Further, the P platform 2F transmits a status information response command including a serial number = n + 5 to the CU 3F.

  Note that the sequence of the game ball counting process when returning the card described with reference to FIG. 49 is not limited to when the card is returned, and the same process can also be applied during simple leaving and meal breaks. Here, the simple leaving means that the game is interrupted for a short time of about 5 to 10 minutes in order to allow the player to make a small use. A meal break is a meal or break that is interrupted by a game such as 30 minutes longer than a simple leave.

<< Abnormal sequence >>
Next, with reference to FIG. 50, a description will be given of the recovery processing of the number of game balls when the status information request is unreached due to power interruption / communication line interruption. FIG. 50 particularly shows that there is a power interruption / communication line disconnection (for example, when the power of the P base 2F is once turned off and then turned on again), and the status information request has not been reached (from the CU 3F to the P base 2F). FIG. 11 is a sequence diagram for explaining a counting process in a case where a command has not arrived) and communication partners after recovery match.

  Referring to FIG. 50, before the power interruption occurs during the game, CU 3F transmits a status information request including serial number = n to P unit 2F. In response to this, the P table 2F sends a status information response including the serial number = n, the number of game balls = 480, the number of added balls = 3 and the number of subtracted balls = 23 to the CU 3F in order to notify the CU 3F of the game table information. To do. The P table 2F updates the previous last transmission serial number as the previous game table information to “n”.

  CU3F receives the status information response of serial number = n, updates the previous last transmission serial number to “n”, and backs up. Further, based on the information of the number of game balls = 480, the number of additional balls = 3, and the number of subtracted balls = 23, the number of game balls, the number of added balls, and the number of subtracted balls stored therein are updated.

  Then, after a power interruption occurs in the P stand 2F during the game, when a status information request including a serial number = n + 1 is transmitted from the CU 3F to the P stand 2F, the P stand 2F is in a power cut off state. Status information request cannot be received. After that, since the status information response from the P stand 2F is not transmitted, the CU 3F performs control to detect and stop the communication line disconnection after 3 seconds. From the time when the P table 2F transmits a response of the status information response to the CU 3F until the power is cut off, the game is continued in the P table 2F and the game table information is changed, the number of game balls = 450, the number of additional balls = 6. Number of balls to be subtracted = 36, which is the latest game table information. On the other hand, the game table information of the number of game balls already transmitted = 480, the number of additional balls = 3, and the number of subtraction balls = 23 is the previous game table information.

  Thereafter, the power failure of the P base 2F is restored, and the P base 2F starts to operate. When the P base 2F starts operation, first, an authentication sequence is started between the CU 3F and the P base 2F, and information including the main chip ID and the payout chip ID is transmitted from the P base 2F to the CU 3F. The The CU3F transmits the received main chip ID and payout chip ID to the upper management server (the key management server 800F via the hall server 801F), and whether the main chip ID and the payout chip ID are properly registered. Ask them to check whether they have returned the results. If it is properly registered, an appropriate authentication result is obtained.

  After the authentication sequence, the counting history sequence shown in FIG. 51 is started. When a counting history request command is transmitted from the CU 3F to the P unit 2F, the counting history data stored in the P unit 2F is transmitted to the CU 3F. . After the counting history sequence, the CU 3F transmits a recovery request including the serial number = 1 and the previous last transmission serial number = n to the P unit 2F. That is, the CU 3F requests the P unit 2F to notify the recovery information. In response to this, the P stand 2F first receives the “store code” and “SC board ID” notified from the security board 325F of the CU 3F, and the “store code” and “SC board ID” held by the P stand 2F. Are matched, and if they match, the following processing is performed. In the P unit 2F, whether or not the previous last transmission sequence number = n of the received recovery request matches the previous last transmission sequence number = n backed up inside the P unit 2F (specifically, the payout control board 17F). Determine whether. If they match, it can be determined that the status information response last transmitted from the P platform 2F to the CU 3F before the communication disconnection has reached the CU 3F. In this case, the status information response is included in the status information response. The game information is updated on the CU3F side based on the game information to be played. Therefore, in this case, the P stand 2F returns a recovery response (serial number = 1, ball unit price) to the CU 3F as no game information storage (specifically, no previous game stand information). If the previous last transmission sequence number = n of the received recovery request does not match the previous last transmission sequence number = n backed up inside the P unit 2F (specifically, the payout control board 17F), the communication is interrupted. Since it can be determined that the status information response last transmitted from the P-unit 2F to the CU3F before the CU3F has not reached the CU3F, in such a case, the game information is stored (specifically, the previous game table information A recovery response (sequence number = 1, ball unit price) including game information is returned to the CU3F. The P stand 2F transmits the response of the recovery response including the unit price when transmitting the response to the CU 3F, and transmits the unit price of the game ball played before the recovery process to the CU 3F. As a result, the game can be played after the recovery process at the unit price of the game balls played before the recovery process. The ball unit price information is also included in the response of the recovery response transmitted from the P platform 2F to the CU 3F, which will be described later, but is not specified in particular when the ball unit price information is not directly related to the contents of the sequence to be described.

  In FIG. 50, CU3F does not store the game information included in the recovery response, and therefore does not perform the addition recovery process. The CU control unit 323F of the CU3F that has received the recovery response checks whether or not the number of game balls included in the gaming machine information transmitted from the P machine 2F as the recovery response is an appropriate value. The first check process is executed. Since no game information is stored, the CU 3F transmits a communication start request including serial number = 2 to the P unit 2F without transmitting the recovery request 2 to the P unit 2F. When the CU 3F transmits a communication start request command to the P platform 2F, the counting sequence number is cleared to “0” (initial value). The P unit 2F receives the communication start request and transmits a communication start response including the serial number = 2 to the CU 3F. Further, after receiving the communication start request, the P base 2F clears the recovery data (game information) and clears the counting sequence number to “0” (initial value).

  When communication with the P base 2F is started, the CU 3F transmits a status information request including a serial number = 3 to the P base 2F. Upon receiving this, the P table 2F notifies the CU 3F of unreported game table information (the number of game balls as the latest game table information = 450, the number of added balls = 6, the number of subtracted balls = 36) as a status information response. Update the last transmission serial number and back up the data. Specifically, the status information response includes transmission sequence number = 3, number of game balls = 450, number of added balls = 6, and number of subtracted balls = 36. CU3F receives a status information response including unreported gaming machine information, updates the last transmission number last time, and backs up the data. The CU control unit 323F of the CU3F that has received the status information response checks whether or not the number of game balls included in the gaming machine information transmitted as the status information response is an appropriate value. Execute the process.

<< Counting history sequence >>
Next, with reference to FIG. 51, processing for reading the count history stored in the P platform 2F to the CU 3F will be described. FIG. 51 is a diagram showing an example of a process of reading the count history stored in the P platform 2F to the CU 3F. First, the CU 3F transmits a count history request command including a serial number = n, a store code, and an SC board ID to the P platform 2F. The P stand 2F compares the store code transmitted from the CU 3F with the card insertion notification command and stored with the store code transmitted from the CU 3F with the count history request command. If the store code matches as a result of the comparison, the P platform 2F sets the stored count history 1 and count history 2 data to the response of the count history response so that it can be transmitted to the CU 3F. Then, the P platform 2F returns a response to the counting history response including the serial number = n, the counting history 1 and the counting history 2 to the CU 3F.

  On the other hand, if the store code does not match as a result of the comparison, the P platform 2F sets data as no counting history in the response of the counting history response transmitted to the CU3F. Although not shown, the P base 2F returns a response of a counting history response including a serial number = n and no counting history to the CU 3F.

  Thus, the counting history sequence can recover the number of game balls counted by transmitting the counting history stored in the P platform 2F to the CU 3F, and can further recover a plurality of past (counting history 1 and counting history). By transmitting 2) to CU3F, the accuracy of the recovery process can be improved. Note that the plurality of count histories transmitted to the CU3F is not limited to two times, and may be three or more count histories.

<Management of gaming machines>
Next, a system for managing the history of gaming machines from shipment to disposal will be described. FIG. 52 is a diagram for explaining the flow of history information (machine history information) from shipment to disposal of the gaming machine according to the present embodiment. Here, the target of the gaming machine that manages the history is not limited to the above-described enclosed circulation type gaming machine (P 2F), and includes a conventional CR gaming machine. Of course, the target gaming machine includes not only pachinko gaming machines but also S machines (slot machines) 2SF corresponding to P machines 2F described later, conventional pachislot machines, and the like.

  Referring to FIG. 52, when a gaming machine is shipped from a gaming machine maker to Hall A, the gaming machine maker's server (not shown) sends shipping information about the shipped gaming machine to a communication line. The information is input to the machine history management center 800AF. The history management center 800AF registers the input shipping information in the storage area of the server.

  FIG. 53 is a diagram showing details of a flow until shipping information is registered in the machine history management center 800AF according to the present embodiment.

  Referring to FIG. 53, when ordering a gaming machine from a gaming machine manufacturer, Hall A sends a sales contract to the gaming machine manufacturer. When the gaming machine manufacturer receives the sales contract sent from Hall A, it confirms the order of the gaming machine according to the sales contract. When the gaming machine manufacturer confirms the order, it sends a copy of the warranty card and the certification notice to Hall A and starts production of the gaming machine. The gaming machine manufacturer ships the produced gaming machine to Hall A from the gaming machine manufacturer (delivered to Hall A). In addition, after a gaming machine to be shipped to Hall A is delivered to a carrier, the gaming machine manufacturer's server inputs shipping information regarding the gaming machine to the machine history management center 800AF via a communication line. When the history management center 800AF receives the input of the shipping information, it registers it in the storage area of the server.

  FIG. 54 is a diagram showing an example of specific contents of the shipping information. Specifically, FIG. 54A is a diagram showing items registered as shipping information. FIG. 54B is a diagram showing registration classifications included in the registration type.

  Referring to FIG. 54 (a), shipping information includes registration type, game board production number, main board management number, main control chip ID number (main chip ID), main control product code, and gaming machine. It includes a frame manufacturing number, a payout board management number, a payout control chip ID number (payout chip ID), a payout control product code, a shipping date, a company code, a hall code, and a cancellation flag.

  The registration type indicates whether the gaming machine to be shipped is a conventional CR gaming machine, an enclosed circulating gaming machine (P stand 2F), a gaming board with a replaced part, or a gaming machine frame. This is information to specify. Specifically, in FIG. 54B, when the registration type numbers are “11” to “14”, the gaming machine to be shipped is a CR gaming machine, and when “21” to “25”. Indicates that the gaming machine to be shipped is P 2F. Furthermore, the registration type numbers “11” to “14” indicate that the game board, the gaming machine frame, the gaming board + the gaming machine frame, and the gaming board (parts replacement) are replaced. Also, the registration type numbers “21” to “25” indicate that they are replaced gaming boards, gaming machine frames, gaming boards + gaming machine frames, gaming board parts, gaming machine frame parts, respectively. When replacing the board of the game board or the board of the gaming machine frame, the board management number after replacement is set and registered when the base is replaced. In addition, replacement of parts in which the production numbers of the game board and the gaming machine frame are changed is registered as a new shipment. Note that the name of the gaming machine manufacturer and the model name of the gaming machine are specified by the registration type.

The game board production number and main board management number are information according to a two-dimensional code.
The main control chip ID number is information read by an ID reader, and is set only in the case of the P unit 2F (setting is not necessary in the conventional CR gaming machine). The main control product code is the product code of the main control chip (setting is not necessary in the conventional CR gaming machine).

  The gaming machine frame manufacturing number and the payout board management number are information according to a two-dimensional code. Note that the payout board management number does not need to be set in a conventional CR gaming machine.

  The payout control chip ID number is information read by an ID reader, and is set only in the case of the P unit 2F (setting is not necessary in the CR gaming machine). The payout control product code is a product code written in the payout control chip (setting is not necessary in the CR gaming machine).

  The shipment date is the date when the gaming machine is shipped, and is the date when shipment is confirmed. The business operator code is information for specifying the name of the carrier. The hole code is information for identifying the hall name of the delivery destination. The cancellation flag is set to “0” when shipping information is registered, and “1” when canceling registered shipping information. When the gaming machine manufacturer has registered incorrect shipping information in the machine history management center 800AF, the gaming machine manufacturer sets a cancellation flag for the incorrect shipping information to “1” and registers it again in the machine history management center 800AF.

  When the history management center 800AF receives the shipping information with the cancellation flag set to “1”, the history management center 800AF cancels the registration of the shipping information with the same content as the received shipping information and the cancellation flag set to “0”. That is, the shipping information having the same content as the shipping information including the cancellation flag set to “1” is deleted from the storage area of the history management center 800AF. Therefore, the history management center 800AF can easily cancel the shipping information by setting the cancellation flag to “1” (ON state).

  Further, the machine history management center 800AF can accept the shipment information including the cancellation flag set to “1” until a predetermined condition is satisfied. That is, after the predetermined condition is satisfied, the shipping information having the same contents as the shipping information including the cancellation flag set to “1” cannot be registered in the history management center 800AF.

  Here, examples of the predetermined condition include time and period. Therefore, the machine history management center 800AF can be set to accept the shipping information including the cancellation flag set to “1” until 8:00 pm on the day when the shipping information to be canceled is registered. Therefore, the history management center 800AF can easily cancel the shipping information by setting the cancellation flag to “1” (ON state), and after a predetermined condition is satisfied (for example, after 8:00 pm on the registration date) ) Can be prevented from tampering with shipping information.

  If the gaming machine is an enclosed circulating gaming machine (P 2F), the main control chip ID number or the payout control chip ID number serves as identification information for identifying the individual gaming machine, and the gaming machine has a conventional CR In the case of a gaming machine, at least one number of a gaming board manufacturing number, a main board management number, a gaming machine frame manufacturing number, and a payout board management number is identification information for identifying an individual gaming machine.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 54 (a), the shipping information is made the same format regardless of whether the gaming machine is an enclosed circulation type gaming machine (P 2F) or a conventional CR gaming machine. In the management center 800AF, the history of the enclosed circulation type gaming machine (P stand 2F) and the conventional CR gaming machine can be managed in a unified manner.

  Referring again to FIG. 52, when a gaming machine is delivered to hall A from a gaming machine manufacturer and the gaming machine is installed in hall A, a server (not shown) in hall A is connected via a communication line. Installation information regarding the installed gaming machine is input to the machine history management center 800AF. The history management center 800AF associates the input installation information with the shipping information registered at the time of shipping and registers them in the storage area of the server.

  FIG. 55 is a diagram showing details of a flow until installation information is registered in the history management center 800AF according to the present embodiment. Specifically, FIG. 55A is a diagram showing the flow when the hall computer (not shown) installed in the hall A and the history management center 800AF are not configured to be communicable. . In FIG. 55 (a), the conventional CR gaming machine is mainly used, and the conventional CR gaming machine is installed in the hall A where the hall computer and the machine history management center 800AF are not connected by a communication line. The case is assumed.

  FIG. 55B is a diagram showing the flow when the hall computer and the history management center 800AF are configured to be communicable. In FIG. 55 (b), this is mainly the case of the enclosed circulation type gaming machine (P stand 2F), and the P stand 2F is installed in the hall A where the hall computer and the machine history management center 800AF are connected by a communication line. Is assumed.

  Referring to FIG. 55A, when a gaming machine is delivered from hall A to Hall A, a copy of the gaming machine delivery form is sent from Hall A to the gaming machine manufacturer. When the gaming machine manufacturer receives a copy of the gaming machine delivery form, the gaming machine installation information is input from the gaming machine manufacturer to the machine history management center 800AF via the communication line, and the input installation information is stored in the storage area of the server. be registered. When installation information is registered in the machine history management center 800AF, the registration result is output via a communication line or as a document. In Hall A, when a jurisdiction implementation inspection is conducted and a change approval notification is made, the delivered gaming machine is installed at a predetermined location in Hall A.

  Referring to FIG. 55 (b), when a gaming machine is delivered from hall A to Hall A, a copy of the gaming machine delivery form is sent from Hall A to the gaming machine manufacturer. Thereafter, in Hall A, a jurisdiction implementation inspection is performed, and when a change approval notification is made, the delivered gaming machine is installed at a predetermined location in Hall A. Since the hall computer and the history management center 800AF are configured to be connectable via a communication line, when the gaming machine installed in the hall A is turned on, the history is automatically transferred from the hall computer. Installation information is transmitted to the management center 800AF. The history management center 800AF associates the received installation information with the shipping information registered at the time of shipping and registers them in the storage area.

  FIG. 56 is a diagram showing an example of the contents of the installation information input to the machine history management center 800AF in FIG. Referring to FIG. 56, the installation information includes a registration type, a game board production number, a main board management number, a gaming machine frame production number, an installation date, a hall code, and a cancellation flag. Since the registration type, game board production number, main board management number, gaming machine frame production number, hole code, and cancellation flag are the same as those described in FIG. 54, detailed description thereof will not be repeated. .

  As described above, in the case of FIG. 55 (a), since it is assumed that a conventional CR gaming machine is mainly installed in the hall A, the registration type numbers are “11” to “14”. Become. The installation date is, for example, the planned opening date of the warranty card.

  From the above, in the case of FIG. 55 (a), the machine history management center 800AF has the gaming machine manufacturer name, model name, gaming board production number, main board management number, as installation information input from the gaming machine manufacturer. A game frame serial number, installation date, and installation hall name are registered.

  Further, in the case of FIG. 55 (b), the machine history management center 800AF has a game machine manufacturer name, model name, installation date, installation hall name, as installation information automatically transmitted from the hall computer. The main control chip ID and the payout control ID are registered. The history management center 800AF may receive the above-mentioned part of information as installation information, and register information that is common with the shipping information with reference to the shipping information.

  Referring again to FIG. 52, when the gaming machine installed in hall A is removed, the removal information from hall A is written in a document or the like, and the document is sent to history management center 800AF. Based on the removal information sent to the machine history management center 800AF, the removal information is registered in the storage area of the server by inputting necessary information from the input means (terminal not shown) of the machine history management center 800AF. If the document is not sent to the machine history management center 800AF, it is determined that the gaming machine has been removed from the hall A when second-hand movement information or disposal information described later is registered in the machine history management center 800AF. The removal information may be registered.

  FIG. 57 is a diagram showing a flow until removal information is registered in the history management center 800AF according to the present embodiment. Specifically, FIG. 57A is a diagram illustrating the flow when the hall computer installed in the hall A and the history management center 800AF are not configured to be communicable. In FIG. 57 (a), it is assumed that a conventional CR gaming machine is mainly installed in Hall A where the hall computer and the machine history management center 800AF are not connected by a communication line.

  FIG. 57B is a diagram showing the flow when the hall computer and the history management center 800AF are configured to be communicable. In FIG. 57 (b), it is assumed that the P unit 2F is mainly installed in the hall A where the hall computer and the history management center 800AF are connected by a communication line.

  Referring to FIG. 57 (a), when the gaming machine installed in Hall A is removed, the gaming machine is removed based on the issued change approval application. When the gaming machine is removed, a document including removal information is sent from the hall A to the machine history management center 800AF. The history management center 800AF registers the removal information in the storage area based on the sent document.

  Referring to FIG. 57B, since the hall computer and the history management center 800AF are configured to be able to communicate with each other, the history management center 800AF is based on the installation information registered in the storage area. If a certain period of time (for example, one month) has passed and no communication with the gaming machine that should have been installed in Hall A, it is determined that the gaming machine has not been operated and has been removed. Then, the removal information is registered in the storage area. Similarly to FIG. 57A, the history management center 800AF may register the removal information in the storage area based on the document sent from the hall A.

  When a conventional CR gaming machine is to be removed, the machine history management center 800AF has a gaming machine manufacturer name, a game board production number, a main board management number, a game frame production number, a removal date, and removal as removal information. The hall name is registered. In addition, when the P stand 2F is removed, in the machine history management center 800AF, a removal control board management number is further registered as removal information in addition to each information registered in the case of a conventional CR gaming machine. Is done.

  Referring to FIG. 52 again, when the gaming machine removed from hall A is received in the seller's warehouse and the received gaming machine is delivered to another hall B, the seller will enter the application documents. The used movement information is entered and sent to the machine history management center 800AF. The machine history management center 800AF registers second-hand movement information in the server from the input means of the machine history management center 800AF based on the sent application documents. When the history management center 800AF and the management computer owned by the dealer are configured to be communicable, the management computer inputs the used movement information to the history management center 800AF via the communication line. Also good.

  When a gaming machine delivered from a dealer is delivered to another hall B and the gaming machine is installed in another hall B, the installation is performed in the other hall B as described in FIG. Information is registered in the server of the machine history management center 800AF. Also, when the gaming machine installed in Hall B is removed, the removal information is registered in the machine history management center 800AF in the flow described with reference to FIG.

  Next, when the gaming machine removed from Hall A is collected by the processing company and the collected gaming machine is discarded, the disposal information is entered in the application document from the processing company, and the document is recorded. It is sent to the management center 800AF. The history management center 800AF registers the discard information in the storage area by inputting necessary information from the input means in the own device. When the history management center 800AF and the management computer of the processing company are configured to be communicable, the management computer can input the discard information to the history management center 800AF via the communication line. Good.

  Further, when the gaming machine traded in from the hall A by the gaming machine maker is discarded, the hall computer inputs the discard information regarding the gaming machine to be discarded via the communication line to the history management center 800AF. The history management center 800AF registers the input discard information in the storage area of the server.

  FIG. 58 is a diagram showing a flow until discard information is registered in the machine history management center 800AF according to the present embodiment.

  Referring to FIG. 58, when a gaming machine manufacturer gives a notice of acceptance of trade-in of a gaming machine to hall A, the gaming machine is delivered from hall A to the gaming machine manufacturer. When a gaming machine maker collects and stores the gaming machine and then discards it, it requests the disposal company (disposal company) to dispose of it. When the gaming machine manufacturer receives a notification from the processing company that the disposal of the gaming machine has been completed (processing details, etc.), the gaming machine manufacturer's server sends the disposal information about the gaming machine via the communication line. Input to the management center 800AF. When the history management center 800AF receives the input of the discard information, it registers it in the storage area of the server.

  FIG. 59 is a diagram showing an example of the contents of discard information input to the machine history management center 800AF.

  Referring to FIG. 59, the discard information includes registration type, discard date, game board manufacturer code, game board manufacture number, main board management number, gaming machine frame manufacturer code, and gaming machine. It includes a frame manufacturing number, a payout board management number, a company code, and a cancellation flag. Since the registration type, game board production number, main board management number, gaming machine frame production number, and cancellation flag are the same as those described with reference to FIG. 54, detailed description thereof will not be repeated.

  The discard date is the date when the gaming machine is discarded. The game board manufacturer code is information for identifying the gaming machine manufacturer that manufactured the game board. The gaming machine frame manufacturer code is information for identifying the gaming machine manufacturer that manufactured the gaming machine frame. The business operator code is information for identifying the business operator that has performed the disposal process. Typically, it is the operator code of the processing company (disposal company), but when it is discarded by the gaming machine manufacturer, it becomes the operator code of the gaming machine manufacturer.

  When a conventional CR gaming machine is discarded, the machine history management center 800AF has a gaming machine manufacturer name, a gaming board production number, a main board management number, a gaming frame production number, a disposal date, and processing as disposal information. The trader name is registered. In addition, when the P unit 2F is discarded, in the machine history management center 800AF, in addition to each information registered in the case of a conventional CR gaming machine, a payout control board management number is further registered as discard information. Is done.

<Management of front frame and game board>
In the machine history management center described above, the configuration for managing the history of the gaming machine (P machine 2F) has been described. However, since the P machine 2F is formed by combining the front frame 5F and the game board 26F, the front frame 5F and the game It is also possible to manage the history separately for the board 26F. Therefore, machine history management of the front frame 5F and the game board 26F will be described below.

  FIG. 60 is a schematic diagram for explaining history management of the front frame 5F and the game board 26F according to the present embodiment. The history management center 800AF shown in FIG. 60 associates the security chip ID of the semiconductor chip provided on the payout control board 17F connected to the front frame 5F with information on the front frame 5F and the main control board 16F connected to the game board 26F. The information of the game board 26F is stored in the table shown in FIG. 61 in association with the security chip ID of the semiconductor chip provided in FIG. 61, and the history of the front frame 5F and the game board 26F is managed. The history management center 800AF includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 8001F as a control center, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 8002F that stores operation programs and control data of the CPU 8001F, and a RAM that functions as a work area for the CPU 8001F. A (Random Access Memory) 8003F, an I / O port (Input / Output Port) 8004F, and a mass storage device 8005F such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) are provided.

  FIG. 61 is a schematic diagram of a table that stores information on the front frame 5F and information on the game board 26F in order to manage the machine history of the front frame 5F and the game board 26F. In the table shown in FIG. 61, a payout side table (FIG. 61 (a)) that stores information on the game board 26F in association with the security chip ID of the payout control board 17F, and a security chip ID of the main control board 16F. A main control side table (FIG. 61 (b)) for storing information on the game board 26F is included.

  Hereinafter, the machine history management of the front frame 5F and the game board 26F will be specifically described with reference to FIGS. First, at the time of shipment and installation, (1) the semiconductor chip manufacturer 190F manufactures the payout control semiconductor chip 17aF and ships it to the frame manufacturer 191F, which is the manufacturer of the front frame 5F. (2) The semiconductor chip manufacturer 190F manufactures the main control semiconductor chip 16aF and ships it to the game board manufacturer 192F, which is the manufacturer of the game board 26F. The payout control semiconductor chip 17aF and the main control semiconductor chip 16aF are not limited to the case where they are manufactured by the same semiconductor chip manufacturer 190F, and may be manufactured by different semiconductor chip manufacturers 190F.

  (3-1) The semiconductor chip manufacturer 190F notifies the history management center 800AF of the payout control security chip ID of the manufactured payout control semiconductor chip 17aF, and inputs the payout control security chip ID into the payout side table. Update the payout table. Similarly, (3-2) the semiconductor chip manufacturer 190F notifies the machine history management center 800AF of the main control security chip ID of the manufactured main control semiconductor chip 16aF, and the main control side security chip ID is sent to the main control side table. To update the main control table.

  (4) The frame maker 191F incorporates the payout control semiconductor chip 17aF into the front frame 5F to manufacture the front frame 5F. Further, the frame maker 191F ships and installs the manufactured front frame 5F to the hall 193F. (5) The frame maker 191F notifies the history management center 800AF of information specifying the front frame 5F installed in the hall 193F, and updates the payout side table so as to be stored in association with the payout control security chip ID. As information for specifying the front frame 5F, as shown in FIG. 61 (a), the front frame manufacturing number, the delivery board management number, the product code for delivery control, the transporter code, the hall code, the shipping date, and the installation Date and time are included. Further, the information specifying the front frame 5F may include a frame format name, a product code, and a manufacturer code.

  (6) The game board maker 192F incorporates the main control semiconductor chip 16aF into the game board 26F to manufacture the game board 26F. Further, the game board maker 192F ships the manufactured game board 26F to the hall 193F and installs the front frame 5F and the game board 26F in combination. (7) The game board maker 192F notifies the machine history management center 800AF of information specifying the game board 26F installed in the hall 193F, and updates the main control side table so as to be stored in association with the main control security chip ID. To do. As information for specifying the game board 26F, as shown in FIG. 61 (b), the model name of the game machine, the product code, the manufacturer code, the game board production number, the main control board management number, and the main control product code. , Carrier code, hall code, shipping date, and installation date and time.

  (8) The hall 193F operates the P stand 2F formed by combining the front frame 5F and the game board 26F. When driven, the P base 2F transmits gaming machine installation information (operation information) including the payout control security chip ID and the main control security chip ID to the key management server 800F. The key management server 800F authenticates the P machine 2F based on the gaming machine installation information transmitted from the P machine 2F, and transmits the necessary secret key to the P machine 2F. (9) The key management server 800F notifies the machine history management center 800AF of the gaming machine installation information, and pays out so as to store a pair (combined) main control security chip ID in association with the payout control security chip ID. The side table is updated, and the main control side table is updated so as to store a pair (combined) payout control security chip ID in association with the main control security chip ID. The machine history management center 800AF includes the gaming machine installation information transmitted from the key management server 800F, the contents of the payout side table and the main control side table updated by the semiconductor chip maker 190F, the frame maker 191F, and the game board maker 192F. Is matched.

  The machine history management center 800AF notifies the abnormality if it is abnormal as a result of the collation. The history management center 800AF also manages the management status of the front frame 5F in which information such as the shipping date (information (3-1) and (5) shown in FIG. 61A) included in the payout table is updated. (Status) is “Shipment”, and the management status of the front frame 5F in which the information on the main control security chip ID of the pair included in the payout side table (information (9) shown in FIG. 61A) is updated ( (Status) is determined as “installation”. Note that the management state (status) of the front frame 5F may be stored in the payout side table or in another storage area. In the case of initial failure after shipment registration, re-shipment is not performed.

  Similarly, the machine history management center 800AF uses the game board 26F in which information such as the shipping date (information (3-2) and (7) shown in FIG. 61B) included in the main control table is updated. The game state of the game board 26F in which the management state (status) is “shipped” and the information of the security chip ID for payout control of the pair included in the main control side table (information of (9) shown in FIG. 61B) is updated. The management state (status) is determined as “installation”. Note that the management state (status) of the game board 26F may be stored in the main control side table or in another storage area. In the case of initial failure after shipment registration, re-shipment is not performed.

  Next, at the time of storage, (10) When the hole 193F is replaced with a new front frame 5F and game board 26F, the installed front frame 5F and game board 26F are removed and stored in the warehouse. (11) The warehouse operator 194F notifies the history management center 800AF of the storage information of the front frame 5F removed from the hall 193F, and updates the payout side table so as to store it in association with the payout control security chip ID. Further, the warehouse trader 194F notifies the history management center 800AF of the storage information of the game board 26F removed from the hall 193F, and updates the main control side table so as to be stored in association with the main control security chip ID. As shown in FIG. 61, the storage information of the front frame 5F and the game board 26F includes a game machine manufacturer, an installation source hall, a removal date, a storage date, and a storage location.

  When the front frame 5F and the game board 26F are removed from the hall 193F, the operation information is not transmitted to the key management server 800F. That is, it can be considered that non-operating information has been transmitted to the key management server 800F from the removed front frame 5F and game board 26F. The non-operating information transmitted to the key management server 800F is further transmitted to the history management center 800AF. The machine history management center 800AF collates the non-operation information transmitted from the key management server 800F with the contents of the payout side table and the main control side table updated by the warehouse operator 194F.

  The machine history management center 800AF notifies the abnormality if it is abnormal as a result of the collation. The history management center 800AF also manages the management status of the front frame 5F and the game board 26F in which information such as storage dates (information (11) shown in FIG. 61) included in the payout table and the main control table is updated. (Status) is determined as “Storage”. When the front frame 5F and the game board 26F are removed, it is not always necessary to remove the front frame 5F and the game board 26F as a set, and either one may be removed and removed. In that case, the history management center 800AF updates only the information (11) (see FIG. 61) of either the payout side table or the main control side table.

  Next, at the time of resale, (12) the hall 193F requests the second trader 195F to resell the front frame 5F and the game board 26F stored by the warehouse trader 194F. The used trader 195F resells the stored front frame 5F and game board 26F to another hall and installs them in the hall. (13) The used trader 195F notifies the machine history management center 800AF of the resale information on the resold front frame 5F, and updates the payout side table so as to store it in association with the payout control security chip ID. In addition, the used trader 195F notifies the machine history management center 800AF of the resale information of the resold game board 26F, and updates the main control side table so as to store it in association with the main control security chip ID. As shown in FIG. 61, the resale information of the front frame 5F and the game board 26F includes an installation source hall, a removal date, an installation date, and a sales company name.

  When the front frame 5F and the game board 26F are resold, they are installed in different halls, and the P frame 2F is operated by combining the front frame 5F and the game board 26F. When driven, the P base 2F transmits gaming machine installation information (operation information) including the payout control security chip ID and the main control security chip ID to the key management server 800F. The key management server 800F authenticates the P machine 2F based on the gaming machine installation information transmitted from the P machine 2F, and transmits the necessary secret key to the P machine 2F. Further, the key management server 800F notifies the machine history management center 800AF of the gaming machine installation information, and stores the pair (combined) main control security chip ID in association with the payout control security chip ID. The table is updated, and the main control side table is updated so as to store a pair (combined) payout control security chip ID in association with the main control security chip ID. The machine history management center 800AF collates the gaming machine installation information transmitted from the key management server 800F with the contents of the payout side table and the main control side table updated by the second-hand trader 195F.

  The machine history management center 800AF notifies the abnormality if it is abnormal as a result of the collation. Further, the machine history management center 800AF manages the management status of the front frame 5F and the game board 26F in which information such as sales company names (information (13) shown in FIG. 61) included in the payout side table and the main control sales table is updated. (Status) is determined to be “resale”, and the front frame 5F and the game in which the information of the pair security chip ID (information (9) shown in FIG. 61) included in the payout side table and the main control side table are updated The management state (status) of the panel 26F is determined as “installation”. When reselling the front frame 5F and the game board 26F, it is not always necessary to resell the front frame 5F and the game board 26F as a set, and either one may be resold. In this case, the history management center 800AF updates only the information (13) (see FIG. 61) of either the payout side table or the main control side table. Further, when reselling the front frame 5F and the game board 26F, it is not necessarily limited to reselling the front frame 5F and the game board 26F stored in the warehouse, but the front frame 5F and the game board 26F installed in the hall. May be resold. In addition, we do not re-ship at the time of resale.

  Next, at the time of disposal, (14) the hole 193F requests the disposal company 196F to discard the stored front frame 5F and game board 26F. The discard trader 196F discards the stored front frame 5F and game board 26F by an appropriate method. (15) The discarder 196F notifies the history management center 800AF of the discard information of the discarded front frame 5F, and updates the payout side table so as to store it in association with the payout control security chip ID. Further, the discarder 196F notifies the history management center 800AF of the discard information of the discarded game board 26F, and updates the main control side table so as to be stored in association with the main control security chip ID. As shown in FIG. 61, the discard information of the front frame 5F and the game board 26F includes an installation source hall, a take-off date, and a discard date.

  When the front frame 5F and the game board 26F are discarded, the operation information is not transmitted to the key management server 800F. That is, it can be considered that the non-operation information is transmitted from the discarded front frame 5F and the game board 26F to the key management server 800F. The non-operating information transmitted to the key management server 800F is further transmitted to the history management center 800AF. The history management center 800AF collates the non-operation information transmitted from the key management server 800F with the contents of the payout side table and the main control side table updated by the discarder 196F.

  The machine history management center 800AF notifies the abnormality if it is abnormal as a result of the collation. The history management center 800AF also manages the management status of the front frame 5F and the game board 26F in which information such as the discard date (information (15) shown in FIG. 61) included in the payout table and the main control table is updated. (Status) is determined to be “Discard”. When discarding the front frame 5F and the game board 26F, it is not always necessary to discard the front frame 5F and the game board 26F as a set, and either one may be removed and discarded. In this case, the machine history management center 800AF updates only the information (15) (see FIG. 61) of either the payout side table or the main control side table. Further, when the front frame 5F and the game board 26F are discarded, the front frame 5F and the game board 26F installed in the hall 193F are not necessarily limited to the case where the front frame 5F and the game board 26F stored in the warehouse are discarded. 26F may be discarded.

<Abnormality judgment of machine history management center>
If the machine history management center 800AF is abnormal as a result of comparing the gaming machine installation information and the non-operating information with the updated information as described above, the machine history management center 800AF notifies the abnormality. Specifically, a process for determining whether or not the machine history management center 800AF is abnormal will be described with reference to a flowchart. FIG. 62 is a flowchart for explaining abnormality determination processing for management of the front frame 5F and the game board 26F by the machine history management center 800AF. FIG. 63 is a diagram for explaining a table referred to in the flowchart shown in FIG.

  First, the machine history management center 800AF determines the management state (status) of the front frame 5F and the game board 26F based on information included in the payout side table and the main control side table (SF211). Specifically, the machine history management center 800AF includes the front frame 5F and the game board 26F in which information such as the disposal date (information (15) shown in FIG. 61) included in the payout table and the main control table is updated. The management state (status) is determined as “discard”.

  Next, the history management center 800AF checks whether or not the transition from the previously determined management state to the currently determined management state is included in the transition prohibition table (SF212). As shown in FIG. 63A, the transition prohibition table indicates a management state in which transition is prohibited from the previously determined management state. Specifically, when the frame maker 191F manufactures and ships the front frame 5F, the front frame 5F is not discarded or resold. Therefore, in the transition prohibition table, the management state changes from “shipment” to “discard”. Transition to “resale” is prohibited. In addition, since the front frame 5F once installed, stored and resold is not shipped from the frame maker 191F, in the transition prohibition table, the management status is “installed”, “storage” and “resale” to “shipment”. ”Is prohibited. Further, since the discarded front frame 5F is not shipped, installed, stored, and resold, the management status is changed from “discarded” to “shipped”, “installed”, “stored”, and “resolded” in the transition prohibition table. ”Is prohibited. In the above-described transition prohibition table, the front frame 5F has been described as an example, but the same applies to the game board 26F.

  Next, when the change to the management state determined this time is not included in the transition prohibition table (SF212: N), the machine history management center 800AF, based on the information from the key management server 800F, the front frame 5F and the game board The operating state of 26F is determined (SF213). Specifically, the machine history management center 800AF determines that the gaming machine installation information is transmitted from the key management server 800F, and determines that the machine is operating, and when the non-operation information is transmitted from the key management server 800F (gaming machine installation information). Is not transmitted), it is determined as a non-operating state.

  Next, the machine history management center 800AF checks whether or not the management state determined this time in SF211 and the operation state determined in SF213 are included in the update abnormality table (SF214). As shown in FIG. 63 (b), the update abnormality table shows the operating state that is prohibited in the management state determined this time in SF211. Specifically, when the front frame 5F and the game board 26F are installed, they are in an operating state if they are within business hours, but are normally inactive if they are out of business hours. When the status is “Installation”, it is determined as abnormal if “Operates outside business hours”. Further, when the front frame 5F and the game board 26F are not installed, the operation status is always inactive. Therefore, in the update abnormality table, the management status is “shipment”, “storage”, “resale”, and “discard”. When it becomes “operation”, it is determined as abnormal.

  Next, when the determined operating state is included in the update abnormality table (SF214: Y), the machine history management center 800AF notifies the abnormality (SF215). The means for notifying the abnormality in SF 215 may be any means such as displaying the abnormality on the display device of the history management center 800AF or outputting an alarm sound from the audio output device. The history management center 800AF also reports an abnormality (SF215) when the transition to the management state determined this time is included in the transition prohibition table (SF212: Y).

  The machine history management center 800AF ends the process when the determined operating state is not included in the update abnormality table (SF214: N).

  As described above, the history management center 800AF according to the present embodiment uses the payout side table that stores the history information of the front frame 5F in association with the payout control security chip ID and the history information of the game board 26F for main control. The main control side table stored in association with the security chip ID is included in the mass storage device 8005F, and the management status of the front frame 5F and the game board 26F based on the information stored in the payout side table and the main control side table by the CPU 8001F Judge abnormalities. Therefore, the history management center 800AF according to the present embodiment can manage the history by associating the front frame 5F and the game board 26F that may be distributed separately with each security chip ID.

<Communication between main control unit and payout control unit>
Next, communication between the main control unit 161F and the payout control unit 171F in the P stand 2F will be described in more detail. First, in the P stand 2F shown in FIG. 37, the communication between the main control board 16F provided on the game board 26F and the payout control board 17F provided on the front frame 5F is the main control provided on the main control board 16F. This is performed between the portion 161F and the payout control portion 171F provided on the front frame 5F. FIG. 64 is a schematic diagram for explaining communication performed between the main control unit 161F, the payout control unit 171F, and the communication control IC.

  The main control unit 161F and the payout control unit 171F illustrated in FIG. 64 will be described below as being configured with one chip, but a similar function may be configured with a plurality of chips. The main control unit 161F includes a main control circuit 161aF, a communication control circuit 161bF, and a main control storage unit 161cF. The main control circuit 161aF performs various processes in the main control unit 161F (for example, a process of counting winning balls based on a signal from the winning sensor 162F or detecting fraud based on a signal from the radio wave sensor 163F). Is a circuit for executing a control program for The communication control circuit 161bF is a circuit for performing cryptographic communication between the main control unit 161F and the payout control unit 171F. The main control storage unit 161cF is a storage device for storing a user program, a control program, and data to be executed by the main control unit 161F, and includes, for example, a FeRAM (Ferroelectric Random Access Memory) of a nonvolatile memory. . Note that since the main control storage unit 161cF includes FeRAM, the information stored in the FeRAM does not need to be backed up by an external power source.

  On the other hand, the payout control unit 171F includes a payout control circuit 171aF, a communication control circuit 171bF, and a payout control storage unit 171cF. The payout control circuit 171aF controls the various processing (the firing motor 18F via the firing control board 31F by the payout control unit 171F, or from the game ball to the holding ball to the CU3F based on the signal from the counting button 28F. A circuit for executing a control program for performing a process of requesting conversion). The communication control circuit 171bF is a circuit for performing cryptographic communication between the main control unit 161F and the payout control unit 171F, and cryptographic communication between the payout control unit 171F and the communication control IC 325aF. The payout control storage unit 171cF is a storage device for storing a user program, a control program, data, and the like to be executed by the payout control unit 171F, and includes, for example, a FeRAM that is a nonvolatile memory. Since the payout control storage unit 171cF includes the FeRAM, the information stored in the FeRAM does not need to be backed up by an external power source.

  Further, the communication control circuits 161bF and 171bF will be described in detail. FIG. 65 is a block diagram for explaining a configuration of a communication control circuit 161bF for performing cryptographic communication with the payout control unit 171F. First, the communication control circuit 161bF has a plurality of functions, for example, an authentication communication function, an encryption communication function, an interrupt function, a recovery function, and the like.

  The authentication communication function is a function for mutual authentication with the payout control unit 171F in the front frame 5F. The encryption communication function is a function for encrypting and decrypting a message between the main control unit 161F and the payout control unit 171F. The encryption communication function can be automatically inserted into a tamper-proof code message, or a code for detecting a communication error can be automatically inserted. Further, the encryption communication function can periodically pass information of the main control unit 161F to the payout control unit 171F and receive information of the payout control unit 171F by setting a communication interval.

  For example, the interrupt function notifies an interrupt after completion of decryption of a message, or notifies an interrupt when the authentication state changes. The recovery function is a function for performing recovery communication with the payout control unit 171F in the encryption communication control unit 600F in response to a request from the user. Further, the communication control circuit 161bF can set a timeout time for communication response and can set a communication interval between the main control unit 161F and the payout control unit 171F.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 65, the communication control circuit 161bF has a plurality of registers that perform input / output with the control program executed by the main control circuit 161aF, and encryption communication for performing encryption communication with the payout control unit 171F. A control unit 600F is provided.

  Examples of the registers included in the communication control circuit 161bF include an authentication status register 611F, an authentication interrupt setting register 612F, a transmission data buffer 613F, a transmission data number register 614F, an information transmission clear register 615F, a main control game information register 616F, and a payout control game. An information register 617F, a recovery communication completion register 618F, an encrypted communication data clear request / completion register 619F, and the like are included.

  The authentication status register 611F indicates whether the chip ID of the main control unit 161F has been authenticated, the communication and authentication status between the card unit and the payout control unit, and the communication and authentication between the main control unit and the payout control unit. The status is written. In the authentication interrupt setting register 612F, whether or not to permit interruption for changing the state of chip ID authentication, authentication between the card unit and the payout control unit, and authentication between the main control unit and the payout control unit is set.

  The transmission data buffer 613F is a buffer for writing game information to be transmitted from the main control unit 161F to the payout control unit 171F (for example, the storage capacity is 128 bytes), and the game information is stored in the buffer by FIFO (First In, First Out). Written. Also, by configuring the transmission data buffer 613F with a non-volatile memory, communication information is written between the main control unit 161F and the payout control unit 171F, and is written in the buffer that has not been transmitted due to communication failure. Is retained after return. Therefore, even when recovery communication is performed, recovery processing such as re-execution of the user program to generate game information written in the transmission data buffer 613F becomes unnecessary, and the processing load of the main control unit 161F is eliminated. Can be reduced. In addition, the amount of data required in the recovery process can be suppressed. Since the transmission data buffer 613F is composed of a nonvolatile memory, backup by an external power source is not necessary. Registers other than the transmission data buffer 613F are composed of a volatile memory.

  The transmission data number register 614F is a register for writing the number of data transmitted to the main control unit 161F payout control unit 171F, and monitors the number of data in the transmission data buffer 613F. The information transmission clear register 615F is a register for writing a request to clear data in the transmission data buffer 613F.

  The main control game information register 616F is a register into which data transmitted from the main control unit 161F to the payout control unit 171F is written. The data written in the main control game information register 616F is encrypted by the encryption communication control unit 600F and transmitted to the payout control unit 171F. The payout control game information register 617F is a register in which data transmitted from the payout control unit 171F to the main control unit 161F is written. The data written in the payout control game information register 617F is data decrypted by the encryption communication control unit 600F.

  The recovery communication completion register 618F is a register in which information indicating whether recovery communication is completed between the main control unit and the payout control unit is written. The encryption communication data clear request / completion register 619F is information that requests clearing of data such as a serial number held in the encryption communication control unit 600F communicating with the payout control unit 171F, and that the data has been deleted. This is a register in which information indicating (clear completion) is written.

  The communication control circuit 171bF is divided into a configuration for performing cryptographic communication with the main control unit 161F and a configuration for performing cryptographic communication with the communication control IC 325aF. The communication control circuit 171bF performs communication control on a portion of the configuration for performing cryptographic communication with the main control unit 161F. A configuration part for performing cryptographic communication with the circuit 171b1F and the communication control IC 325aF will be described below as a communication control circuit 171b2F.

  First, FIG. 66 is a block diagram for explaining a configuration of a communication control circuit 171b1F for performing cryptographic communication with the main control unit 161F. First, the communication control circuit 171b1F has a plurality of functions, for example, an authentication communication function, an encryption communication function, an interrupt function, a recovery function, and the like.

  The authentication communication function is a function for mutual authentication with the main control unit 161F of the game board 26F and mutual authentication with the communication control IC 325aF of the CU3F. The encryption communication function is a function for encrypting and decrypting a message between the main control unit 161F and the payout control unit 171F. The encryption communication function can be automatically inserted into a tamper-proof code message, or a code for detecting a communication error can be automatically inserted. In addition, the encryption communication function can periodically pass the information of the payout control unit 171F to the main control unit 161F and receive the information of the main control unit 161F by setting the communication interval.

  For example, the interrupt function notifies an interrupt after completion of decryption of a message, or notifies an interrupt when the authentication state changes. The recovery function is a function for performing recovery communication with the main control unit 161F and the communication control IC 325aF in the encryption communication control unit 700F in response to a request from the user. Further, the communication control circuit 171b1F can set a communication response time-out time and can set a communication interval between the main control unit 161F and the payout control unit 171F.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 66, the communication control circuit 171b1F has a plurality of registers that perform input / output with the control program executed by the payout control circuit 171aF, and cryptographic communication for performing cryptographic communication with the payout control unit 171F. A control unit 700F is included.

  The registers included in the communication control circuit 171b1F include, for example, an authentication status register 711F, an authentication interrupt setting register 712F, a data reception register 713F, a reception data number register 714F, an information reception clear register 715F, a payout control game information register 716F, and a main control game. An information register 717F, a recovery request / completion register 718F, an encrypted communication data clear request / completion register 719F, and the like are included.

  The authentication status register 711F indicates whether or not the chip ID of the payout control unit 171F is authenticated, the communication and authentication status between the card unit and the payout control unit, and the communication and authentication between the main control unit and the payout control unit. The status is written. In the authentication interrupt setting register 712F, whether or not to permit interruption for changing the state of chip ID authentication, authentication between the card unit and the payout control unit, and authentication between the main control unit and the payout control unit is set.

  The data reception register 713F is a buffer (for example, having a storage capacity of 128 bytes) in which the game information transmitted from the main control unit 161F and received by the payout control unit 171F is written, and the buffer is a FIFO (First In, First Out) game. Information is written. In addition, by configuring the data reception register 713F with a nonvolatile memory, communication information is written between the main control unit 161F and the payout control unit 171F. Is retained after return. Therefore, even when recovery communication is performed, recovery processing such as re-execution of the user program to generate game information written in the data reception register 713F becomes unnecessary, and the processing load of the main control unit 161F is reduced. Can be reduced. In addition, the amount of data required in the recovery process can be suppressed. Since the data reception register 713F is composed of a nonvolatile memory, backup by an external power source is not necessary. Registers other than the data reception register 713F are composed of a volatile memory.

  The reception data number register 714F is a register for writing the number of data transmitted from the main control unit 161F and received by the payout control unit 171F, and monitors the number of data in the data reception register 713F. The information reception clear register 715F is a register in which a request for clearing data in the data reception register 713F is written.

  The payout control game information register 716F is a register into which data transmitted from the payout control unit 171F to the main control unit 161F is written. The data written in the payout control game information register 716F is encrypted by the encryption communication control unit 700F and transmitted to the main control unit 161F. The main control game information register 717F is a register in which data transmitted from the main control unit 161F to the payout control unit 171F is written. The data written in the main control game information register 717F is data decrypted by the encryption communication control unit 700F.

  The recovery request / completion register 718F is a register in which information indicating whether or not recovery communication is requested between the main control unit and the payout control unit and information indicating whether or not the recovery communication is completed is written. The encryption communication data clear request / completion register 719F is information requesting to clear data such as a serial number held in the encryption communication control unit 700F communicating with the main control unit 161F, and that the data has been deleted. This is a register in which information indicating (clear completion) is written.

  In addition, the communication control circuit 171b1F includes a communication timeout time setting register 719aF, a communication interval time setting register 719bF, and a main control unit transmission buffer write effective time setting register 719cF.

  After the authentication between the main control unit 161F and the payout control unit 171F expires, the main control unit transmission buffer write effective time setting register 719cF transfers the data in the transmission data buffer 613F of the main control unit 161F to the data reception register 713F. This register sets the valid time that can be written. By setting the register, writing to the data reception register 713F can be performed even after the authentication between the main control unit 161F and the payout control unit 171F has expired (for example, from 5 seconds to 15 seconds). About seconds). As a result, for example, even if there is a floating ball (a ball that has not been dropped by being caught between the nails of the game area 27F) when authentication is cut off due to power interruption or disconnection, the floating ball has won a prize. It is possible to securely store and protect the information. Even in the case of a gaming machine having a stage with a long ball residence time, it is assumed that the effective period can be set long so that the information that the floating ball has won can be reliably stored.

  Originally, information cannot be written in the data reception register 713F via the encryption communication control unit 700F from the viewpoint of security after the authentication between the main control unit 161F and the payout control unit 171F has expired. However, in the data reception register 713F, for example, it is necessary to write information indicating that the floating ball has won after authentication between the main control unit 161F and the payout control unit 171F has expired. Therefore, the communication control circuit 171b1F sets an effective time in the main control unit transmission buffer write effective time setting register 719cF, and this setting is performed in the encryption communication control unit 700F, whereby the main control unit 161F and the payout control unit 171F. Information can be written to the data reception register 713F via the encryption communication control unit 700F as long as it is within the valid period even after the authentication between and is terminated. It should be noted that the set value of the main control unit transmission buffer write effective time setting register 719cF can be read after this setting is made by the encryption communication control unit 700F.

  FIG. 67 is a block diagram for explaining a configuration of a communication control circuit 171b2F for performing cryptographic communication with the communication control IC 325aF. As shown in FIG. 67, the communication control circuit 171b2F performs, for example, an authentication status register 721F, an authentication interrupt setting register 722F, a transmission data buffer 723aF, a data reception register 723bF, and a transmission data number register 724F in order to perform cryptographic communication with the communication control IC 325aF. , Received data number register 725F, recovery communication addition sphere request register 726F, recovery communication subtraction sphere request register 727F, recovery request / completion register 728F, encrypted communication data clear request / completion register 729F, communication timeout timer-prescaler setting register 729aF, and communication It has a timeout time setting register 729bF and the like.

  The authentication status register 721F indicates whether or not the chip ID of the payout control unit 171F is authenticated, the communication and authentication status between the card unit and the payout control unit, and the communication and authentication between the main control unit and the payout control unit. The status is written. In the authentication interrupt setting register 722F, whether or not to permit interruption for changing the state of chip ID authentication, authentication between the card unit and the payout control unit, and authentication between the main control unit and the payout control unit is set.

  The transmission data buffer 723aF is a buffer for writing a business message to be transmitted from the payout control unit 171F to the communication control IC 325aF (for example, the storage capacity is 128 bytes), and the business message is written to the buffer by FIFO (First In, First Out). Is included. The data reception register 723bF is a buffer (for example, having a storage capacity of 128 bytes) in which a business message transmitted from the communication control IC 325aF and received by the payout control unit 171F is written, and a business message is stored in the buffer by FIFO (First In, First Out). Is written.

  By configuring the transmission data buffer 723aF and the data reception register 723bF with non-volatile memory, communication disconnection occurs between the payout control unit 171F and the communication control IC 325aF, and the buffer and register that have not been transmitted due to communication failure are stored in the buffer and register. The written business message is retained even after returning. Therefore, even when recovery communication is performed, recovery processing such as re-execution of a user program to generate a business message written in the transmission data buffer 723aF and the data reception register 723bF becomes unnecessary, and the payout control unit It is possible to reduce the processing load of 171F and the communication control IC 325aF. In addition, the amount of data required in the recovery process can be suppressed. Note that since the transmission data buffer 723aF and the data reception register 723bF are configured by a nonvolatile memory, backup by an external power source is not necessary. Registers other than the transmission data buffer 723aF and the data reception register 723bF are composed of a volatile memory.

  The transmission data number register 724F is a register for writing the number of data transmitted from the payout control unit 171F to the communication control IC 325aF, and monitors the number of data in the transmission data buffer 723aF. The reception data number register 725F is a register for writing the number of data transmitted from the communication control IC 325aF and received by the payout control unit 171F, and monitors the number of data in the data reception register 723bF.

  The recovery communication addition sphere request register 726F is a register in which the number of addition spheres is written when an addition sphere is generated as a result of recovery communication between the communication control IC and the payout control unit after power-off recovery. The recovery communication addition ball request register 726F is updated only when the recovery communication is completed. The recovery communication subtraction sphere request register 727F is a register in which the number of subtraction spheres is written when a subtraction sphere is generated as a result of recovery communication between the communication control IC and the payout control unit after the power-off recovery. Note that the recovery communication subtraction sphere request register 727F is also updated only when the recovery communication is completed.

  The recovery request / completion register 728F is a register in which information indicating whether or not recovery communication is requested between the communication control IC and the payout control unit and whether or not the recovery communication is completed are written. The encryption communication data clear request / completion register 729F is information that requests clearing of data such as a serial number held in the encryption communication control unit 700F communicating with the communication control IC 325aF, and that the data has been deleted ( This is a register in which information indicating "clear completion" is written.

<Recovery completion confirmation process>
Next, in the communication between the main control unit 161F and the payout control unit 171F, the main control unit 161F and the payout control unit 171F return to the main control storage unit 161cF and the payout control memory when returning from a communication disabled state such as a power failure. The recovery process which transmits the predetermined information memorize | stored in the part 171cF is performed. Then, the main control unit 161F and the payout control unit 171F perform a recovery completion confirmation process for resuming the generation of predetermined information by executing the user program on the condition that the recovery process ends. Specifically, the recovery completion confirmation process will be described with reference to a flowchart. FIG. 68 is a flowchart for explaining the recovery completion confirmation process.

  First, when the main control unit 161F and the payout control unit 171F are turned on in order to recover from an incommunicable state such as a power interruption, the main control circuit 161aF and the payout control circuit 171aF start processing of an authentication sequence. When the authentication is completed, the authentication results are written in the authentication status registers 611F and 711F of the main control unit 161F and the payout control unit 171F, respectively. Then, the main control unit 161F and the payout control unit 171F confirm whether or not the authentication completion is written in the respective authentication status registers 611F and 711F (step SF291). When the authentication completion is not written in the respective authentication status registers 611F and 711F (step SF291: NO), the main control unit 161F and the payout control unit 171F return to the process of step SF291.

  When the authentication completion is written in the respective authentication status registers 611F and 711F (step SF291: YES), the main control unit 161F and the payout control unit 171F recover in the recovery communication completion register 618F and the recovery request / completion register 718F. It is confirmed whether or not a flag indicating completion is written (step SF292). If the flag indicating the completion of recovery is not written in the recovery communication completion register 618F and the recovery request / completion register 718F (step SF292: NO), the main control unit 161F and the payout control unit 171F return to the process of step SF292.

  The main control unit 161F and the payout control unit 171F start the processing of the user program when the recovery completion flag is written in the recovery communication completion register 618F and the recovery request / completion register 718F (step SF292: YES). (Step SF293). As means for starting the processing of the user program, for example, a means for transmitting a signal for starting the processing of the user program to start the processing of the user program and a stopping means for stopping the processing of the user program are provided. There are means for starting the processing of the user program by releasing the means.

  As described above, since the main control unit 161F and the payout control unit 171F do not start the processing of the user program until the recovery processing is completed, new information by the processing of the user program before the information to be restored by the recovery processing is determined. Is prevented from being written, the processing of the user program can be resumed appropriately.

<Commands and responses sent and received between the main control unit and the payout control unit>
Next, with reference to FIG. 69, an outline of commands and responses transmitted / received between the main control unit 161F and the payout control unit 171F will be described.

  FIG. 69 shows the transmission direction, whether the data to be transmitted is a command or a response, the name of transmission information, and its outline.

  First, a command named power-on notification is transmitted from the main control unit 161F to the payout control unit 171F. This power-on notification command notifies the payout control unit 171F that power is turned on and communication is started. The payout control unit 171F transmits a response named “power-on reception” to the main control unit 161F. This power-on reception response is a response that the main control unit 161F receives a power-on notification and starts communication.

  Next, a command having a game state notification is transmitted from the main control unit 161F to the payout control unit 171F. This gaming state notification command notifies the payout control unit 171F of the gaming state. The payout control unit 171F transmits a response named “game state response” to the main control unit 161F. This gaming state response is a response that a gaming state notification has been received with respect to the main control unit 161F.

<Main sequence processed between main control unit and payout control unit>
Next, a main sequence processed between the main control unit 161F and the payout control unit 171F by processing executed by the main control unit 161F and the payout control unit 171F will be described with reference to FIGS.

<< Communication sequence >>
First, a sequence that is processed between the main control unit 161F and the payout control unit 171F when the power is turned on will be described with reference to FIG. The sequence shown in FIG. 70 is a process that is executed when communication is resumed after the communication between the main control unit 161F and the payout control unit 171F has ended normally.

  The communication between the main control unit 161F and the payout control unit 171F is performed by a polling method using the main control unit 161F as a primary station, and the polling interval is 200 ms. Note that communication of power-on notification and power-on reception is excluded. The payout control unit 171F sets “communication line disconnection” and stops the game when the request command from the main control unit 161F cannot be received even after 1 second has elapsed since the response was transmitted.

  Furthermore, the payout control unit 171F transmits a response command to the main control unit 161F only when normal data is received. If the main control unit 161F does not receive a response command within the polling interval time, it retransmits the command up to three times including the first time. The serial numbers used for transmission and reception are stored in the storage unit for both the main control unit 161F and the payout control unit 171F, and are used for command normality check, power-off recovery, and communication line disconnection recovery.

  Specifically, the communication sequence will be described. First, when power is turned on, communication of power-on notification and power-on reception is performed between the main control unit 161F and the payout control unit 171F, and an authentication new sequence is started. . As described above, the authentication sequence is written in the authentication status registers 611F and 711F that the chip IDs of the main control unit 161F and the payout control unit 171F are authenticated and the communication between the main control unit and the payout control unit is authenticated. . Furthermore, the process which produces | generates the encryption key and decryption key which are used for the encryption communication of the main control part 161F and the payout control part 171F by the said authentication sequence is performed. The communication between the main control unit 161F and the payout control unit 171F after the process is performed using the generated encryption key and decryption key.

  Next, after the authentication sequence is completed, the main control unit 161F transmits a gaming state notification command to the payout control unit 171F with a serial number “n”. The payout control unit 171F returns a game state reception response to the main control unit 161F as “n” without counting up the serial number. Furthermore, the main control unit 161F transmits a game state notification command to the payout control unit 171F with the serial number “n + 1”. The payout control unit 171F returns a game state reception response to the main control unit 161F as “n + 1” without counting up the serial number.

  Thereafter, the main control unit 161F counts up the serial number to “n + 2” and transmits a gaming state notification command to the payout control unit 171F. Then, the payout control unit 171F sets “n + 2” without counting up the serial number, and returns a game state reception response to the main control unit 161F.

  In the communication between the main control unit 161F and the payout control unit 171F, the interval from the command transmission of the game number notification of the serial number “n” to the command transmission of the game status notification of the serial number “n + 1”, the game status notification of the serial number “n + 1” The interval from the command transmission to the command transmission of the game number notification of the serial number “n + 2” is 200 ms each.

<< Sequence after power off >>
Next, with reference to FIG. 71, a process when a status information request is not reached due to a power interruption / communication line interruption will be described. In particular, FIG. 71 shows that there is a power interruption / communication line disconnection (for example, when the power supply of the payout control unit 171F is once turned off and then turned on again), and the gaming state notification is not reached (from the main control unit 161F FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram for explaining processing when a post-recovery communication partner matches with a payout control unit 171F).

  Referring to FIG. 71, before the power interruption occurs during the game, main controller 161F transmits a gaming state notification including serial number = n to payout controller 171F. In response to this, the payout control unit 171F transmits a game state reception including the serial number = n to the main control unit 161F.

  Then, after a power interruption occurs in the payout control unit 171F during the game, when a game state notification including a serial number = n + 1 is transmitted from the main control unit 161F to the payout control unit 171F, the payout control unit 171F The game state notification cannot be received because of the state. Thereafter, since the gaming state reception from the payout control unit 171F is not transmitted, the main control unit 161F performs control to stop communication assuming that the power supply is cut off after one second.

  Thereafter, when an authentication sequence is started between the power-on and main control unit 161F and the payout control unit 171F, the main control unit 161F includes a power source including serial number = 1 and main control serial number (previous last transmission serial number) = n + 1. The insertion notification is transmitted to the payout control unit 171F. Since the game state reception serial number transmitted to the main control unit 161F before the power interruption occurred is “n”, the payout control unit 171F has a payout control serial number backed up by the payout control unit 171F = n. Therefore, the payout control sequence number = n backed up by the payout control unit 171F does not match the main control sequence number = n + 1 backed up by the main control unit 161F. When the serial numbers do not match, the payout control unit 171F performs recovery processing on the information of the payout control unit 171F based on the recovery game information included in the power-on notification transmitted from the main control unit 161F. Thereafter, the payout control unit 171F transmits power-on reception including the serial number = 1 to the main control unit 161F.

  The main control unit 161F transmits a gaming state notification including a serial number = 2 to the payout control unit 171F. The payout control unit 171F performs processing with the contents after the recovery process, and transmits a game state reception including a serial number = 2 to the payout control unit 171F. Thereafter, similarly, the main control unit 161F transmits a gaming state notification including a serial number = 3 to the payout control unit 171F. The payout control unit 171F transmits the game state reception including the serial number = 3 to the payout control unit 171F.

  The above-described recovery process is performed because the serial numbers do not match, but information (for example, the number of game information, prize ball information, etc.) included in the recovery game information is the main control unit 161F and payout control. The recovery processing may be performed even if there is a mismatch with the unit 171F.

<Unauthorized gaming machine connection detection>
Next, a mechanism for detecting unauthorized gaming machines detected by the CU3F will be described. The card unit that can be connected to the P unit 2F is not limited to a card unit that is used for commercial purposes (corresponding to the CU3F described above, hereinafter also simply referred to as CU3F or commercial CU). It may be a game board development jig for developing a board, a development card unit (development CU) used for the development of the P stand 2F, or the like.

  However, it is conceivable to illegally play a game on the P unit 2F by using a card unit that can be connected to the P unit 2F other than the commercial CU. For example, a large number of game balls are lent out to a P board 2F connected to a game board development jig or development CU other than a commercial CU and separated from the game board development jig or development CU, and then the P board 2F. It is conceivable to play a game illegally by connecting a commercial CU.

  Therefore, in the present embodiment, the operation of the commercial CU is detected by detecting whether the P stand 2F connected to the commercial CU has been connected to a game board development jig or development CU other than the commercial CU in the past. Stop. Specifically, a mechanism for detecting whether or not a game board development jig other than a commercial CU or a development CU has been connected in the past will be described with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 72 is a diagram for explaining a detection mechanism when the P stand 2F connected to the game board development jig is connected to a commercial CU by unit replacement. First, the game board development jig 3EF shown in FIG. 72 includes a CU control unit 323F and a communication control IC 325aF that are the same as a commercial CU, except for having an SC 325EbF for developing P units. In addition, an identification ID indicating that it is a game board development jig is embedded in SC325EbF for P-unit development. Specifically, the identification ID is an identification code included in the SC board ID, and is stored in the SC325EbF as a part of the SC board ID.

  When the P board 2F is connected to the game board development jig 3EF as shown in FIG. 72, when the card insertion notification command is transmitted from the game board development jig 3EF to the P board 2F as a gaming machine message notification, The identification ID is transmitted from the development SC325EbF to the P platform 2F. The identification ID transmitted to the P platform 2F is stored in a register in the payout control circuit 171aF. The SC board ID of SC325EbF is stored in the register in the payout control circuit 171aF together with the identification ID. Note that only the identification ID may be backed up in another storage device of the payout control circuit 171aF.

  The SC board ID is stored in the register in the payout control circuit 171aF as described above, but is not notified to the user program 171pF executed by the payout control circuit 171aF. Therefore, the P base 2F cannot read the SC board ID from the payout control circuit 171aF, and the SC board ID cannot be illegally copied, so that the security is high. The SC board ID (including the identification ID) stored in the register of the payout control circuit 171aF can be erased by clearing the RAM of the payout control circuit 171aF.

  Next, processing when the unit is replaced from the game board development jig 3EF to the CU3F will be described. When the P stand 2F connected to the game board development jig 3EF is connected to the CU 3F by unit replacement, a gaming machine message notification is transmitted from the CU 3F in the processing of the authentication sequence after the power is turned on. With this gaming machine message notification, the SC board ID including the identification ID (identification information indicating that it is a commercial CU) is transmitted from the SC 325bF to the P stand 2F. Note that the timing for transmitting the SC board ID to the P stand 2F is not limited to the processing of the authentication sequence. For example, after the unit is replaced with the CU 3F and the P stand 2F is turned on, the player inserts the card. The timing at which the card insertion notification command is transmitted from the CU 3F as a gaming machine telegram notification may be used. In other words, any timing may be used as long as it can prevent the player from illegally using the number of game balls given by the game board development jig 3EF. In FIG. 72, in order to distinguish the identification ID from the SC 325EbF for developing the P unit and the identification ID from the commercial SC 325bF, the identification ID from the SC 325EbF for developing the P unit is illustrated. The identification ID is not shown.

  Upon receiving the identification ID from the commercial SC 325bF, the identification ID stored in the payout control circuit 171aF (identification ID of the card unit connected in the past) is the identification ID of the game board development jig 3EF. It is determined whether or not. Whether or not the P platform 2F is a connecting device other than the commercial CU3F without determining whether the identification ID stored in the payout control circuit 171aF is the identification ID of the game board development jig 3EF. You may just judge. If the payout control circuit 171aF determines that the stored identification ID is the identification ID of the game board development jig 3EF, the card unit connected in the past without notifying the identification ID stored in the user program 171pF. Is notified only that the game board development jig 3EF, and Bit 6 (connection of game board development jig) in the fraud detection state 3 included in the response of the status information response is set to “1”.

  Based on the information of Bit 6 in the fraud detection state 3 included in the response of the state information response transmitted as a gaming machine message response from the connected P stand 2F, the CU 3F is connected to the game board development jig 3EF. Is detected. Specifically, the SC 325bF reads information on Bit 6 in the fraud detection state 3, and if the information is “1”, it detects that the card unit connected in the past was the game board development jig 3EF. When the SC 325bF detects that the card unit connected in the past is the game board development jig 3EF, the SC 325bF stops communication with the CU control unit 323F. Thereby, CU3F can prevent performing an illegal game, without taking in information in game board development jig 3EF connected in the past into CU control part 323F. Further, when the CU 3F detects that the card unit connected in the past is the game board development jig 3EF, the CU 3F may notify by sound or light, or may notify the detection result to the upper server.

  In FIG. 72, the identification ID is written in the user program 171pF in order to express in an easy-to-understand manner that the information of Bit 6 = "1" in the fraud detection state 3 has been written in the user program 171pF. However, as described above, the stored identification ID itself is not notified. In addition, the identification ID is changed from the P stand 2F to the CU 3F in order to easily express the state information response including the information of Bit 6 = "1" in the fraud detection state 3 from the P stand 2F to the CU 3F. However, the stored identification ID itself is not notified.

  Of course, as described above, when the payout control circuit 171aF determines that the stored identification ID is the identification ID of the game board development jig 3EF, the flag (in the fraud detection state 3) Instead of writing to the user program 171 pF as Bit 6 (game board development jig connection) = “1”), the information of the identification ID itself of the game board development jig 3EF is written to the user program 171 pF as shown in FIG. It may be complicated. Further, it may be determined whether or not the identification ID of the game board development jig 3EF is based on the identification ID stored in the user program 171pF. Also, the information transmitted from the P stand 2F to the CU 3F is not a flag (bit 6 in the fraud detection state 3 (game board development jig connection) = “1”), but as shown in FIG. Information on the 3EF identification ID itself may be transmitted.

  Further, the P platform 2F stores the identification ID stored in the payout control circuit 171aF (the identification ID of the card unit connected in the past) without determining whether or not it is the identification ID of the game board development jig 3EF. The identification ID may be transmitted to the SC 325bF via the user program 171pF. That is, it may be determined whether the card unit connected in the past is the game board development jig 3EF or not by the P325 2F instead of the SC board 325bF and detecting the game board development jig connection.

  In addition, when replacing the unit from the game board development jig 3EF to another game board development jig 3EF, the information of Bit 6 = “1” in the fraud detection state 3 is transmitted from the connected P base 2F as described in FIG. The response of the status information response including it is transmitted. However, another game board development jig 3EF whose unit has been replaced has the shipped manufacturer code of the game machine development manufacturer code set in SC325EbF for P unit development, so that Bit6 = "6" It may be configured not to detect that the card unit connected in the past was the game board development jig 3EF while ignoring the information of 1 ″. In other words, if the card unit determines that the unit has been changed from the game board development jig 3EF to another game board development jig 3EF based on the shipping manufacturer code set in the SC, it detects an error in connection with the game board development jig. do not do. As a result, in the development process in which the connection between the game board development jig 3EF and the P stand 2F is repeated, processing for detecting an error in connection with the game board development jig is not performed, so that development and maintenance work is facilitated.

  FIG. 73 is a diagram for explaining a detection mechanism when the P stand 2F connected to the development CU is connected to the commercial CU by unit replacement. First, the development CU3DF shown in FIG. 73 includes the same CU control unit 323F and communication control IC 325aF as the commercial CU, except that the development CU3DF has a development SC325DbF. In addition, an identification ID indicating that it is a development CU is embedded in the development SC325DbF. Specifically, the identification ID is an identification code included in the SC board ID, and is stored in the SC325DbF as a part of the SC board ID.

  When the P unit 2F is connected to the development CU3DF as shown in FIG. 73, when the card insertion notification command is transmitted from the development CU3DF to the P unit 2F as a gaming machine message notification, the identification ID is received from the development SC325DbF. It is transmitted to the P platform 2F. The identification ID transmitted to the P platform 2F is stored in a register in the payout control circuit 171aF. The SC board ID of SC325DbF is stored in the register in the payout control circuit 171aF together with the identification ID. Note that only the identification ID may be backed up in another storage device of the payout control circuit 171aF.

  Next, processing when the unit is replaced from the development CU3DF to the CU3F will be described. When the P platform 2F connected to the development CU3DF is connected to the CU3F by unit replacement, a gaming machine message notification is transmitted from the CU3F in the processing of the authentication sequence after the power is turned on. With this gaming machine message notification, the SC board ID including the identification ID (identification information indicating that it is a commercial CU) is transmitted from the SC 325bF to the P stand 2F. Note that the timing for transmitting the SC board ID to the P stand 2F is not limited to the processing of the authentication sequence. For example, after the unit is replaced with the CU 3F and the P stand 2F is turned on, the player inserts the card. The timing at which the card insertion notification command is transmitted from the CU 3F as a gaming machine telegram notification may be used. In other words, any timing may be used as long as it can prevent the player from illegally using the number of game balls given by the development CU3DF. In FIG. 73, in order to distinguish the identification ID from the development SC325DbF and the identification ID from the commercial SC325bF, the identification ID from the development SC325DbF is illustrated, and the identification ID from the commercial SC325bF is illustrated. Not shown.

  Upon receiving the identification ID from the commercial SC 325bF, the P base 2F determines whether or not the identification ID stored in the payout control circuit 171aF (identification ID of the card unit connected in the past) is the identification ID of the development CU3DF. . The P platform 2F determines whether or not the identification ID stored in the payout control circuit 171aF is a connection device other than the commercial CU3F without determining whether the identification ID is the identification ID of the development CU3DF. Just be fine. When the payout control circuit 171aF determines that the stored identification ID is the identification ID of the development CU3DF, the card unit connected in the past without notifying the identification ID stored in the user program 171pF is for development. Only the fact that it is a CU3DF is notified, and Bit 5 (development CU connection) of fraud detection state 3 included in the response of the state information response is set to “1”.

  In CU3F, based on the information of Bit5 of fraud detection state 3 included in the response of the status information response transmitted as a gaming machine message response from the connected P stand 2F, the card unit connected in the past was the development CU3DF Detect that. Specifically, the SC 325bF reads the information of Bit5 in the fraud detection state 3, and if the information is “1”, it detects that the card unit connected in the past was the development CU3DF. When the SC 325bF detects that the card unit connected in the past is the development CU 3DF, the SC 325bF stops communication with the CU control unit 323F. As a result, the CU3F can prevent an unauthorized game from being performed without taking the information in the development CU3DF connected in the past into the CU control unit 323F. Further, when the CU 3F detects that the card unit connected in the past is the development CU 3DF, the CU 3F may notify by sound or light, or may notify the detection result to the upper server.

  In FIG. 73, the identification ID is written in the user program 171pF in order to easily express that the information of Bit5 = "1" in the fraud detection state 3 is written in the user program 171pF. However, as described above, the stored identification ID itself is not notified. In addition, the identification ID is changed from the P stand 2F to the CU 3F in order to express in an easy-to-understand manner the state information response response including the information of Bit 5 = "1" in the fraud detection state 3 from the P stand 2F to the CU 3F. However, the stored identification ID itself is not notified.

  Of course, as described above, when the payout control circuit 171aF determines that the stored identification ID is the identification ID of the development CU3DF, the flag included in the response to the status information response (Bit5 (development of fraud detection state 3) Instead of writing to the user program 171 pF as “CU connection for use CU” = “1”), the information of the identification ID of the development CU3DF itself may be written to the user program 171 pF as shown in FIG. Further, based on the identification ID stored in the user program 171pF, it may be determined whether or not it is the development CU3DF identification ID. Also, the information transmitted from the P platform 2F to the CU 3F is not a flag (Bit5 (development CU connection) = “1” in the fraud detection state 3), but the identification ID itself of the development CU 3DF as shown in FIG. May be transmitted.

  Furthermore, the P stand 2F does not determine whether the identification ID stored in the payout control circuit 171aF (the identification ID of the card unit connected in the past) is the identification ID of the development CU3DF or not. A configuration in which the ID is simply transmitted to the SC 325bF via the user program 171pF may be employed. In other words, it may be determined whether the card unit connected in the past is the development CU 3DF or not by the P unit 2F, not by the SC 325bF, and detecting the development CU connection.

  In addition, when a unit is replaced from a development CU3DF to another development CU3DF, a response of a status information response including information of Bit 5 = “1” in the fraud detection state 3 from the connected P 2F as described in FIG. Will be sent. However, in another development CU3DF whose unit has been replaced, since the shipping manufacturer code of the game device development manufacturer code is set in the development SC325DbF, the transmitted information of Bit5 = “1” in the fraud detection state 3 transmitted. May be configured not to detect that the card unit connected in the past was the development CU3DF. In other words, if the card unit determines that the unit has been replaced from the development CU3DF to another development CU3DF based on the shipping manufacturer code set in the SC, the card unit does not detect the development CU connection error. As a result, in the development process in which the connection between the development CU 3DF and the P stand 2F is repeated, a process for detecting an error in the development CU connection is not performed, so that the development and maintenance work is facilitated.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, it is detected whether or not the P stand 2F connected to the CU3F has been connected to the game board development jig 3EF or development CU3DF other than the CU3F in the past, and the CU control unit Since the communication with the H.323F is stopped and the operation of the CU3F is stopped, it is possible to prevent an illegal game by connecting to the game board development jig 3EF or the development CU3DF other than the CU3F in the past. For example, before connecting the P stand 2F to the commercial CU3F, connect it to the game board development jig 3EF or the development CU3DF and lend a large number of game balls, and use the game balls lent after connecting to the commercial CU3F. And fraud in playing games can be prevented.

  Next, a case where a gaming machine simulator other than the P stand 2F is connected to a commercial CU3F will be described. FIG. 74 is a diagram for explaining a detection mechanism when a gaming machine simulator is connected to a commercial CU3F. Here, the gaming machine simulator is a device for connecting, for example, to inspect whether the commercial CU3F operates normally, and can virtually output signals and information necessary for the inspection to the commercial CU3F. it can. Therefore, in order to prevent unauthorized gaming information from being transmitted by intentionally connecting a gaming machine simulator, a commercial CU3F determines whether it is connected to a gaming machine simulator or connected to the P stand 2F. It is necessary to detect.

  First, the gaming machine simulator 2AF shown in FIG. 74 has a payout control unit 171AF similarly to the P stand 2F. The payout control unit 171AF includes a payout control circuit 171AaF and a user program 171ApF executed by the payout control circuit 171AaF. In the user program 171 ApF, an identification ID indicating that it is a gaming machine simulator 2AF is embedded.

  As shown in FIG. 74, when the gaming machine simulator 2AF is connected to a commercial CU3F, a gaming machine message notification command and a gaming machine message response response are communicated between the CU3F and the gaming machine simulator 2AF. For example, the CU3F transmits a state information request command for notifying the gaming machine simulator 2AF of the state of the CU3F. When the gaming machine simulator 2AF receives a status information request command from the CU 3F, the gaming machine simulator 2AF transmits a response of a status information response to notify the CU 3F of game information, a gaming machine state, and the like.

  Information for notifying the CU 3F that it is connected to the gaming machine simulator 2AF is included in the response of the status information response transmitted to the CU 3F. Specifically, the gaming machine simulator 2AF sets Bit 7 (gaming machine simulator connection) of fraud detection state 3 included in the response of the state information response = “1” based on the identification ID embedded in the user program 171ApF.

  In CU3F, the connected gaming machine is a gaming machine simulator based on the information of Bit7 in the fraud detection state 3 included in the response of the status information response transmitted as a gaming machine message response from the connected gaming machine simulator 2AF. Detect that. Specifically, the SC 325bF reads Bit7 information in the fraud detection state 3, and if the information is “1”, it detects that the connected gaming machine is a gaming machine simulator. When the SC 325bF detects that the connected gaming machine is a gaming machine simulator, the SC 325bF stops communication with the CU control unit 323F. Thereby, CU3F can prevent performing an illegal game, without taking in the information of connected gaming machine simulator 2AF into CU control part 323F. Further, when the CU3F detects that the connected gaming machine is a gaming machine simulator, the CU3F may notify the user by sound or light, or notify the host server of the detection result.

  Note that the identification ID is given from the gaming machine simulator 2AF to express the state information response including the information of Bit 7 = “1” in the fraud detection state 3 from the gaming machine simulator 2AF to the CU 3F in an easily understandable manner. It is shown as transmitted to CU3F.

  Of course, the information transmitted from the gaming machine simulator 2AF to the CU3F is not a flag (bit 7 in the fraud detection state 3 (gaming machine simulator connection) = “1”), but identification of the gaming machine simulator 2AF as shown in FIG. Information on the ID itself may be transmitted.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, it is detected whether the gaming machine connected to the CU3F is the commercial P stand 2F or the gaming machine simulator 2AF, and the communication with the CU control unit 323F is stopped and the CU3F Since the operation is stopped, it is possible to prevent illegal gaming by intentionally connecting the gaming machine simulator 2AF to the CU 3F. For example, the gaming machine simulator 2AF can count a large number of game balls with respect to the CU 3F, and the waiting ball counted after connecting to the P stand 2F can be rented as a game ball to prevent fraud. .

<Slot machine>
Next, a slot machine will be described as another example of the gaming machine. FIG. 75 is a perspective view showing a state in which the front door of the slot machine is opened. In the description so far, the slot machine is also abbreviated as “S” in the following, because the pachinko machine is abbreviated as “P”.

  The above gaming system using game balls and holding balls is also applied to S units in the same manner. However, in the S platform, the game is played without using balls, and hence the game balls will be referred to as game points and the holding balls as points.

  Referring to FIG. 75, S platform (slot machine) 2SF is provided such that front door 2bSF is openable and closable with respect to main body frame 2aSF with its left edge as the center of swing. Although not shown in FIG. 75, a CU is connected to the left side of the S base 2SF in the same manner as the P base.

  In S 2SF, the number of bets is set by using game points, and the game points are added and updated in accordance with winning. For this reason, when a game is played on the S platform 2SF, a medal insertion operation is not necessary. Therefore, the S stand 2SF is not provided with a medal insertion slot and a medal payout opening.

  Inside the casing of the S unit 2SF, reels 2LF, 2CF, and 2RF (hereinafter also referred to as a left reel, a middle reel, and a right reel) in which a plurality of types of symbols are arranged on the outer periphery are juxtaposed in a horizontal direction. Of the symbols arranged on the reels 2LF, 2CF, and 2RF, three consecutive symbols are arranged so as to be seen from a see-through window provided on the front door 2bSF. A plurality of types of symbols are drawn in a predetermined order on the outer peripheral portions of the reels 2LF, 2CF, and 2RF.

  A touch panel type display 510F is provided in a portion surrounding each reel 2LF, 2CF, 2RF of the front door 2bSF. The display 510F is a display corresponding to the P displays 54F, and displays various types of information (game points, points, etc.) similar to the display 54F, as well as the number of bets set in the game. Is displayed. The display unit 510F is connected to the CU display control unit 350F in the same manner as the display unit 54F of FIG. The indicator 510F is not provided in a portion surrounding each of the reels 2LF, 2CF, and 2RF, but is provided at a lower panel portion (at a position below the start switch 7SF shown in FIG. You may provide in the panel part provided with the conventional S medal payout opening.

  Further, a 7-segment display 50SF is provided in a lower portion of the display 510F. The 7-segment display 50SF is a display corresponding to the P 7-segment display 50F, and displays various types of information (such as the number of times the front door 2bSF is opened) of the same type as the 7-segment display 50F.

  In addition, the front door 2bSF has a single BET switch 5SF operated when setting the number of bets using “game points = 1” corresponding to one medal, and the maximum determined according to the game state. When setting the number of bets (for example, “game point = 3” in the normal game state before BB occurrence and RT (Replay Time) where the winning probability of replay is high, “game point = 2” in the bonus) A MAXBET switch 6SF that is operated when the game is started, a start switch 7SF that is operated when the game starts, and stop switches 8LF, 8CF, and 8RF that are operated when the rotations of the reels 2LF, 2CF, and 2RF are stopped. Yes.

  In the case of playing a game on S units 2SF, first, similarly to P units, after securing game points using adjacent CUs, the number of bets is set using the game points. The game points are obtained by withdrawing the balance of the prepaid card inserted into the CU, the points, or the stored medals (corresponding to P stored balls) deposited in the game hall. In order to use game points, one-sheet BET switch 5SF or MAXBET switch 6SF may be operated. In the present embodiment, for example, by setting the number of bets to 1, the game points are deducted by 1, and the display of the game points on the display 510F is also subtracted and updated. When the bet number is set, the pay line determined according to the bet number and the game state is valid, and the operation of the start switch 7SF is valid, that is, the game can be started.

  When the start switch 7SF is operated while the game can be started, the reels 2LF, 2CF, and 2RF rotate, and the symbols of the reels 2LF, 2CF, and 2RF continuously vary. When any one of the stop switches 8LF, 8CF, 8RF is operated in this state, the rotation of the corresponding reels 2LF, 2CF, 2RF is stopped, and the display result is derived and displayed on the fluoroscopic window.

  Then, all the reels 2LF, 2CF and 2RF are stopped, so that one game is finished, and a predetermined symbol combination (hereinafter also referred to as a role) on the activated pay line is assigned to each reel 2LF, 2CF, When the display is stopped as a result of 2RF, a winning occurs, a game point determined according to the winning is given to the player, and the display of the game point on the display 510F is also added and updated.

  In the case of S units, it is possible to count game points as in the case of P units. As shown in FIG. 75, the S stand 2SF is provided with a counting button 28SF for counting game points and converting them into points. The ball lending button, the return button, and the replay button are provided on the CU side (see FIG. 37). The player executes the counting operation based on an arbitrary timing or a display for prompting the counting operation on the display 510F in the same manner as the P units. Then, the game points are counted, and the state where the game points are decreased while the points are increased is displayed on the display 510F. The ball lending button may be provided not on the CU side but on the P platform side and the S platform side. In that case, the operation signal of the ball lending button may be directly input to the CU 3F, or may be transmitted to the CU 3F as a status information response via the P base 2F or the S base 2SF. .

  The types of winning combinations are determined according to the state of the game, but can be broadly divided into special roles with a shift to the big bonus (BB) and regular bonus (RB), and small roles with payout of medals. And a re-gamer (replay) that allows the next game to be started without the need to set the bet amount.

  Which of a plurality of types of winning combinations is to be won or whether any winning combination is to be determined not to win is determined by, for example, the main control unit (S) controlling the S stand 2SF when a start operation is detected. Equivalent to the main controller 161F of the base). The main control unit of the S base 2SF is mounted on a main control board corresponding to the main control board 16F mounted on the P base 2F. The main control unit determines the presence / absence of a winning combination by, for example, drawing a random number generated from a predetermined random number generator or generated on software.

  After that, the main control unit waits for the reel stop operation by the player, draws in the symbol corresponding to the winning combination in the predetermined frame number range based on the stop operation time, otherwise draws another symbol Is controlled to stop the three symbols and determine whether or not there is a prize. If the main control base determines that a winning is made, the main control base transmits a signal corresponding to the type of winning to the payout control unit (corresponding to the payout control unit 171F in FIG. 37). The payout control unit gives the player a number of game points corresponding to the signal (adds game points).

  The payout control unit of the S platform 2SF is mounted on a payout control board (not shown). The payout control board is delivered from the frame maker to the hall in a state of being attached to the main body frame 2aSF by the frame maker.

  On the other hand, the main control board (not shown) of the S stand 2SF is delivered to the hall from the slot machine manufacturer separately from the main body frame 2aSF in a state of being attached to a board mounting board for connecting wiring.

  With the S units, the game can be started by setting a predetermined number of bets for one game using the gaming value, and variable display capable of variably displaying a plurality of types of identification information each of which can be identified A slot machine in which one game is completed when a display result is derived to the device and a winning can be generated according to the display result derived to the variable display device, and the display result is displayed on the variable display device. Before deriving, predetermining means for determining whether or not to allow a plurality of types of winnings to occur, and control for causing the variable display device to derive a display result according to the determination result of the predetermining means A slot machine is configured that includes a derivation control means for performing and a granting means for imparting a game value when the winning occurs.

  FIG. 76 is an explanatory diagram for explaining various data stored in each of the card unit and the slot machine and its transmission / reception mode. The transmission / reception mode shown in FIG. 76 is obtained by replacing the terminology in FIG. 39 described for the configuration of P units with that for S units, and the mode is the same as that described with reference to FIG. Now, further explanation is omitted.

  The information to be output to the outside of the pachinko machine 2F includes a winning information signal that can specify the winning opening and the number of winning prizes for the game balls, as described above for the pachinko gaming machine 1, and the current gaming state. A pending storage number signal that can specify the latest pending storage number may be included. Note that the information output to the outside of the pachinko machine 2F is not configured to be output to the outside from the information output circuit as in the pachinko gaming machine 1 described above, but is output from the main control unit 161F via the payout control unit 171F. You may make it do.

  As described above, since the game control microcomputer provided on the main control board 16F performs data processing such as addition / subtraction processing, the information on the number of reserved memories is recognized as the latest information. Therefore, a reserved memory number signal that can specify the latest reserved memory number in the current gaming state can be output from the game control microcomputer to the outside via the information output circuit or the payout control microcomputer.

  In addition to the above-described information, the game control microcomputer on the main control board 16F includes a launch stop signal, a radio wave sensor detection signal, a magnet in addition to the information described above. Various information may be transmitted by various signals such as a sensor detection signal, an illegal winning detection signal, and a game state information setting completion signal, and the various information may be managed on the payout control microcomputer side.

  Here, the firing stop signal is a firing stop switch when the touch sensor does not detect the player's hand contact in the hitting operation handle 25F (a switch for forcibly stopping the firing when operated). Is operated, the hitting operation handle 25F is not rotated more than a certain rotation angle, or the card unit (CU) 3F and the pachinko machine (P stand) 2F are not electrically connected. This is output when the game control microcomputer determines that a predetermined firing stop condition is satisfied.

  The radio wave sensor detection signal is transmitted to the main control board 16F by the radio wave detection signal from the radio wave sensor (radio wave switch) 163F that detects abnormal radio waves (illegal radio waves). A sensor error is determined and output based on the determination.

  The magnet sensor detection signal indicates that the magnet sensor (magnet switch) for detecting abnormal magnetism (illegal magnetism) is connected to the main control board 16F (game control microcomputer), and a magnet is used to Based on an illegal game using a magnet such as changing the trajectory, a magnetism sensor signal is input to the main control board 16F based on an illegal game using a magnet, and a magnet sensor error is determined in the game control microcomputer. Is output based on.

  The unauthorized winning detection signal is sent to the winning winning opening of the winning sensor 162F in a state in which the counting winning switch is connected to the main control board 16F and the winning switch is closed. When an illegal winning error is determined by detecting a winning ball in the big winning mouth in the gaming control microcomputer based on the detection signal of the winning sensor for detecting the winning ball of the game, an output is made based on the determination. .

  The game state information setting completion signal is output when the setting of various game information (game state information) transmitted from the main control unit 161F to the payout control unit 171F is completed when the power of the pachinko machine (P units) 2F is turned on. The Such a game state information setting completion signal is used as a trigger signal for starting communication between the CU3F side (card unit side) and the P stand 2F side (pachinko machine side), for example.

  In addition to the information as described above, the microcomputer for game control on the main control board 16F from the payout control microcomputer on the payout control board 17F includes the following glass frame / main body frame opening signal, the number of winnings. Various information such as abnormal signal, illegal addition detection signal, radio wave sensor detection signal, proximity sensor abnormal signal, night open detection signal, counting notification request signal, card removal waiting signal, and power saving transition request signal The various information may be managed on the game control microcomputer side.

  The glass frame / main body frame opening signal is generated when the detection signal from the glass door opening detection switch 12F or the front frame opening detection switch 13F is input to the dispensing control board 17F. When the opening of the front frame 5F is determined, the output is made based on the determination.

  The winning number abnormality signal confirms whether the number of winnings per unit time is equal to or greater than a predetermined number in the payout control microcomputer with respect to the number of winnings by the winning detection signal input from the main control board 16F to the payout control board 17F. Whether or not the winning number is abnormal is determined based on the determination, and when it is determined that the winning number is abnormal, an output is made based on the determination.

  The illegal addition detection signal indicates that an illegal addition error is determined by the payout control microcomputer when the payout control board 17F receives a coin addition request from the CU3F in a state other than when the card is inserted into the CU3F. Based on the output.

  The radio wave sensor detection signal is a radio wave sensor error in the payout control microcomputer because the radio wave detection signal from the radio wave sensor (radio wave switch) 173F that detects abnormal radio waves (illegal radio waves) is input to the payout control board 17F. Is determined and output based on the determination.

  Proximity sensor abnormal signal is generated by winning sensor 162F, ball raising switch (upper) 41aF, foul ball detection switch 330F, out ball detection switch 701F, and launch ball detection switch due to a change in capacitance due to the passage of the ball. It is composed of proximity switches to be detected. For such proximity switches, the dispensing control microcomputer determines whether or not there is an abnormality based on the number of balls detected, and when the abnormality is determined, the determination Is output based on. For example, when only the ball raising switch (upper) 41aF is always turned on by an improper radio wave, the shot of the ball is not detected. On the other hand, when the actually fired ball is collected and detected by the shot ball detecting switch, It is determined that the proximity sensor is abnormal because wrinkles occur in the number of fire balls and recovery balls (out balls).

  The night open detection signal is output when it is determined in the payout control microcomputer that either the glass door 6F or the front frame 5F is opened as follows. At night when the pachinko machine 2F is turned off, the glass door 6F is detected based on the detection signals output from the glass door opening detection switch 12F and the front frame opening detection switch 13F by the above-described counting counter operated by the backup power supply. The number of times the front frame 5F has been opened is counted. Then, when the power of the pachinko machine 2F is turned on, either the glass door 6F or the front frame 5F is opened in the payout control microcomputer by the count value of each opening number output from the count counter to the payout control board 17F. Is determined. It is also possible to detect the nighttime opening of only one of the glass door 6F and the front frame 5F and output the nighttime opening detection signal.

  The count notification request signal is output to make a request to notify the count value when it is determined in the payout control microcomputer that a count request has been made in response to the operation of the count button. Such a count notification request signal is used, for example, to execute audio output and numerical display related to counting by the main board.

  The card removal waiting signal is output to notify the card return ready state OFF and card removal waiting ON information when the payout control microcomputer determines that the card can be removed by the CU 3F.

  When the touch sensor does not detect the player's hand contact (for example, when it has not detected for a predetermined period) in the payout control microcomputer, the power saving transition request signal is “0”. When it is determined that a predetermined power saving control transition condition is satisfied, for example, when a card is not inserted into the CU3F or when a variable display is stopped, for example, the brightness of the liquid crystal backlight Is output as an operation request signal for shifting to a power saving state in which predetermined power saving control is performed such as a decrease in light emission and stop of light emission of various lamps.

  In the pachinko gaming machine 1 described above, an example is shown in which the information output to the outside of the pachinko gaming machine 1 includes a winning information signal that can identify the winning mouth and the number of winning prizes that the game ball has won. Such an external output of the winning information signal may be applied to the pachinko machine (P units) 2F.

  In addition, it is possible to transmit various signals such as the reserved memory number signal, the emission stop signal, and the radio wave sensor detection signal described as signals to be transmitted from the game control microcomputer of the pachinko machine 2F to the payout control microcomputer. The pachinko gaming machine 1 described above may be applied. In addition, the transmission of various signals such as the glass frame / main body frame opening signal and the winning number abnormality signal described as signals to be transmitted from the payout control microcomputer of the pachinko machine 2F to the game control microcomputer has been described above. You may apply in the pachinko gaming machine 1.

<Modifications and feature points>
Next, modifications and feature points of the embodiment described above are listed.

  (1) When a slot machine (S units), which is an example of a gaming machine, is applied to the above gaming system, for example, there are P units of reels and various sensor parts attached to the reels and a main control board for controlling the reels. Corresponding to the board, other configurations correspond to P game frames. However, the S units do not require the various detection switches 41aF, 701F, 33F, the launch control board 31F, and the launch motor 18F of the game frame shown in FIG.

  A conventional S unit is provided with a credit function. When this function is enabled, the credit is subtracted when the number of bets is set, and the credit is added when a winning occurs. However, there is an upper limit for credits, and when a winning occurs when the number of credits reaches the upper limit value, medals are paid out from the hopper.

  On the other hand, in the S units according to the present embodiment, game points are subtracted when the bet number is set, and game points are added when a winning occurs. Further, when the game points reach a predetermined number, a display for prompting a counting operation is made, and the gaming points are converted into points by performing the counting operation. For this reason, it is not necessary to pay out medals when the credit reaches the upper limit unlike the conventional S units. As a result, it is not necessary to provide a hopper on the S platform according to the present embodiment.

  As a result, the amusement hall does not need to secure a large number of medals, reducing the economic burden. The game arcade is also freed from operations such as replenishment / collection of medals and maintenance operations to deal with clogged medals. The player is relieved from the hassle of inserting medals for each betting operation after the credit is full, and can easily concentrate on the game.

  On the other hand, if S units become medalless, a player who has won a large number of medals will not be able to act to show off his arms by stacking boxes with medals beside the seat. Inconvenience arises. However, in the present embodiment, such a problem can be prevented by providing a function for displaying a dollar box. In addition, it is desirable for the dollar box display in the case of S units to have a large number of medals loaded instead of a large number of balls.

  When S machines are applied as a gaming machine, each type of data is expressed as follows using two types of data, “Points” and “Game Points”, and “Credit” and “Credit Excess Points”. It is also possible to configure a gaming system that is converted. Note that these four types of data are displayed on the S displays 510F.

  First, when a conversion operation (lending operation, saving medal payout operation, or point payout operation) from a prepaid card balance, a saving medal, or a point is detected, each is withdrawn and converted into a game point. The

  A game point is data corresponding to a medal in a conventional slot machine. For this reason, for example, it is desirable to display the number of game points on the display 510F and display the number of medal images corresponding to the game points. For example, when a pseudo-insertion medal operation (for example, an operation of pushing a medal) such that a player touches the medal image and inserts it into the slot machine is detected, the medal image disappears and the game points are subtracted. Instead, one bet is set. By performing such a pseudo medal insertion operation three times, the bet number is set to the maximum value of three.

  Thereafter, when a pseudo medal insertion operation is further detected, a credit is added in accordance with the detection. An upper limit value (for example, 50) is set for the credit, and when the credit exceeds the upper limit value, a credit excess point is added.

  The betting amount setting can be performed using the game points as described above, and can also be performed using credits. In other words, if there is an operation of the single BET switch 5SF, the bet number setting value is incremented by 1, and the credit is decremented by 1. If the MAXBET switch 6SF is operated, the bet number is set to 3, and the credit is subtracted according to the bet number setting.

  As a result of the game, when a winning occurs, a number of points corresponding to the winning is added to the credit. When a winning that exceeds the upper limit of credit occurs, the score for the excess is stored as a credit excess point. This credit excess point corresponds to a medal to be paid out when a winning occurs exceeding the upper limit of credit in the conventional slot machine. For this reason, for example, it is desirable to display the credit excess points on the display 510F and to display the number of medal images corresponding to the credit excess points. Further, it is desirable to change the color of this medal image so that it can be distinguished from the medal image corresponding to the game point.

  Further, it is desirable that the credit excess points are converted into game points by the player's operation. For example, when a pseudo medal conversion operation (for example, an operation of pushing a medal) is performed such that the player touches the medal image corresponding to the credit excess point and converts it to a game point, the medal image disappears and the credit excess Points are subtracted and game points are added.

  Alternatively, if the credit becomes less than the upper limit value, the credit excess point may be automatically converted into credit.

  When the player performs a counting operation, each of the game points, credits, and credit excess points is counted and converted into points. As a result, the player's points are posted as “card possession number + game points + credits + credit excess points”. The “card possession number” is the number of points before conversion (the number of possessions currently owned by the player) that has not been converted into game points.

  In the above description, the four types of data of points, game points, credits, and credit excess points may be stored on both sides by exchanging data between the CU and S units. You may memorize | store only in the S stand side only by CU side. Further, the credit excess point may be a target for dollar box display.

  Moreover, although the example using a credit excess point was demonstrated in the above description, it is not necessary to use a credit excess point. In this case, when the credit limit is exceeded, it may be added to the game points.

  (2) In this embodiment, a game point is added by consuming card frequency. Alternatively, game points are added by consuming stored balls (stored medals). That is, the card frequency or the stored ball is converted into game points. On the other hand, the card power and the stored balls are not converted into points (count balls, count medals). However, the card power and the stored ball may be once converted into points.

  (3) In this embodiment, game points are converted into points by counting operation. The conversion rate in this case is 1: 1. However, the conversion rate in the case of conversion may be other than 1: 1. For example, when 100 game points are converted, 97 points obtained by subtracting three of them may be converted into points. Or you may make it convert into the number of game balls obtained by multiplying a predetermined ratio of less than 100% with respect to a point.

  (4) The recording medium for recording the holding point in an identifiable manner may use a mobile terminal such as a smartphone. In this case, the communication unit for communicating with the mobile terminal is provided in the CU3F, and the CU recognizes the ID stored in the mobile terminal by holding the mobile terminal over the communication unit. The game is made possible by the procedure as described above. On the other hand, at the end of the game, the portable terminal is again held over the communication unit, so that the score at the end of the game is added to the player's score through the ID.

  (5) The operation means for counting game points may be provided on the CU side. In this case, the operation means may be displayed on a touch panel, or may be constituted by a physical switch.

  (6) When an uncounted game point remains when the card return operation is performed, it is desirable to display a message prompting the counting on the P-unit or the CU side display. However, instead of such a configuration, when an uncounted game point remains when the card return operation is performed, the counting display is automatically started and the display on the P table or the CU side is used. It may be notified that automatic counting has started because there are still uncounted game points, or that, in addition, the card will be returned after completion of automatic counting.

  Alternatively, when an uncounted game point remains when the card return operation is performed, it is determined that there is a possibility that the player may leave the table temporarily, and the display (CU side or P stand side) You may display the message which confirms whether it is temporary leaving. Further, the display device may be constituted by a touch panel so that the player can input a response to the message. Furthermore, if the response input is the end of the game, a message prompting the counting operation is displayed. On the other hand, if the response input is temporarily away from the desk, the card may be temporarily ejected while the ID of the card is stored on the CU side, the P platform side, or both. Thereafter, when a card with the same ID is inserted, the game is resumed from the original state.

  (7) The counting time from the start of the counting operation to the completion of the counting display is based on the game points when the game points are less than the first reference value and when the game points exceed the first reference value. The increasing rate of the counting time may be reduced. As a result, it is possible to produce an effect of counting display as if counting real spheres, and it is possible to prevent an excessive amount of time until counting is completed due to an increase in game points. Further, when the game points exceed a certain reference value, all the counting times may be the same. Alternatively, the same counting time may be adopted regardless of the number of game points without providing a reference value.

  (8) In the above-described embodiment, the glass door 6F opening detection and the front frame 5F opening detection are detected by the separate glass door opening detection switch 12F and the front frame opening detection switch 13F. Alternatively, both may be detected by a common detection switch.

  (9) As the counting operation means for counting the game balls, one that exhibits a counting function when operated a predetermined number of times twice or more may be employed. As a result, erroneous operation can be prevented. Further, in this case, one function may be used to exhibit another function different from the counting function. For example, when there is no operation for a predetermined time (for example, within 1 second) after the operation is performed once, a function for turning on a lamp for calling a store clerk is exhibited, and 2 within 1 second from the operation. When the second operation is detected, it is conceivable to perform the counting function.

  (10) When the counting operation button is operated for less than a predetermined time (short-time operation), for example, the first number of balls is counted, and when operated for a predetermined time or longer (long-time operation), the first operation is performed according to the operation time. It is desirable to control so that the number of balls larger than the number of balls of 1 is counted. For example, it is conceivable that 100 balls are counted in the short-time operation, while a predetermined number exceeding 100 balls, for example, 200 balls or 400 balls, is counted in the long-time operation. Also, the number of game points to be counted may be controlled to be different depending on the long press time of the counting operation button. For example, it is conceivable that 100 balls start to be counted by long-pressing for 1 second, and if the long-pressing continues for 5 seconds as it is, all the remaining balls are counted. Alternatively, it may be controlled such that a predetermined number is counted by one operation and all remaining balls are counted by the fifth operation.

  (11) (A) The fact that game points equal to or greater than the “predetermined number of points” are not stored does not count game points even if a counting operation is performed, and a notification to that effect is given. Also, (B) when the game points are counted until the stored game points reach the “predetermined number of points”, no more counting is possible, and control is performed so that a notification to that effect is given. Is desirable. The same number may be adopted as the predetermined number of points in these two cases (A) and (B), that is, the reference value may be different.

  (12) When the counting operation is performed while the ball is being fired, it is desirable to control the counting operation to be invalidated when the number of game balls at that time is equal to or less than a reference value. However, even if the number of game balls when the counting operation is detected during the ball firing exceeds the reference value, the number of balls counted in one counting operation is set to a predetermined number. In some cases, the counting operation may be invalidated when the value obtained by subtracting the predetermined number from the number of game balls when the counting operation is detected does not satisfy the reference value.

  Further, in order to invalidate the counting operation during the game, it is desirable to determine whether or not the game is in progress based on whether or not the ball firing operation is detected. Instead of this, or in addition to this, whether the number of in-game balls (floating ball floating in the game area 27F) is 0 (not in game) or not (in game) It may be determined whether or not. In addition, it is also possible to determine whether or not the game is in progress based on whether or not the variable display device is changing, whether or not it is a big hit, whether or not the attacker is open.

  Further, “in game” when S units are applied as a gaming machine to invalidate the counting operation during the game is, for example, a period from the start of rotation of the reels 2LF, 2CF, and 2RF to the stop. . Alternatively, it is a period from when the start operation is detected until the reels 2LF, 2CF, 2RF are stopped.

  (13) When the number of game balls is greater than a predetermined number regardless of whether or not a big hit is being made, a display prompting a counting operation may be performed.

  In addition, if the counting operation is not detected even after a predetermined time has elapsed since the display for prompting the counting operation, the game ball may be forcibly stopped, and the firing is not forcibly stopped. It may be.

  (14) Referring to FIG. 39, the P platform is provided with a counting ball counter that temporarily stores the counted counting balls (held balls), but does not include a counter that stores the cumulative value of the counting balls. . However, a counting ball cumulative storage counter that stores the cumulative value of counting balls may be provided on the P platform side. In addition, the CU side is provided with an area for storing card holding balls (counting balls). If a holding ball is recorded on the inserted card itself, this area holds the card holding ball. The current number of players' balls, including balls, is stored. For this reason, only in this area, the number of counting balls counted by the player in the current game cannot be specified. Therefore, an area for storing the number of counting balls counted by the player in this game may be further provided on the CU side. In this case, the CU adds balls to the area based on the information on the number of balls that are sent from the P cars after the game starts, and when the balls are converted into game balls, Subtract the holding ball.

  (15) The display for prompting the counting operation may be a display of “Please play the game after the game balls remain, so please return it” or display the counting button 28F on the screen. The display may be blinking.

  (16) When the number of game balls is equal to or greater than a predetermined number (3,000 balls or more), control is performed so that “control for performing a display prompting a counting operation on a display device” is executed as “predetermined notification control”. Is desirable. Here, “prompt counting operation” means, for example, a message that displays “Counting operation because the number of game balls has reached the upper limit” or a message that simply displays “Counting operation is required.” It may be. Further, the “predetermined notification control” may be a control for outputting a notification sound for prompting a counting operation from a speaker. Further, the “notification” may not be “notification for prompting the counting operation” but simply notify that “the number of game balls has reached the upper limit” (not to prompt for the counting operation). .

  Further, when the game point is equal to or greater than a predetermined first reference value (3000 balls or more), “predetermined notification control” is performed, and thereafter, the game point is set to a second reference value greater than the first reference value. It may be controlled so that the game is disabled when the game point is reached, and the game is permitted (no firing prohibited) until the game point reaches the second reference value from the first reference value. In the case where the gaming machine is a slot machine, the inoperable state can be realized by controlling the start lever to operate so that the reel does not start rotating or the betting number setting is invalidated.

  (17) When a game using game points is being performed (while the ball is being fired), control is performed so that the counting operation is not validated unless there are more than a predetermined number of game points (for example, 250 points). It is desirable to do. Here, the predetermined number of points is not limited to 250 points, and may be any number as long as it is 1 point or more. However, for example, when an excessively small number of points such as one point is set, a malfunction occurs when the timing of firing and the timing of counting occur almost simultaneously. Alternatively, if a counting operation is detected when the number of points is equal to or less than a predetermined number (for example, 10 points or less) and the counting operation is detected, 5 points are left for launching and the remaining points are counted. You may control to.

  In addition, when it is detected that a player who notices that the counting operation has been invalidated because there are no more points left than the predetermined number of points has been stopped, it is invalidated first. The counting operation may be activated to automatically start the counting operation. That is, in this case, the player who notices that the counting operation has been invalidated only needs to stop the firing operation, and does not need to perform the counting operation again.

  (18) In order to change the number of game points to be converted by one operation according to the time for which the count button is kept pressed, for example, when a long press (for example, continuous operation for 1 second or more), While all are counted, only 200 balls may be counted in a short press (for example, continuous operation for less than 1 second). However, in this case, when the remaining number of game balls is small, for example, when it is less than 200 balls, it is desirable that all game balls are counted by operating the counting button.

  (19) Depending on the remaining number of game points, when the number of points counted by one short pressing operation of the counting button is made different, for example, the following may be considered. For example, when the number of game points is less than 200, all the game points are counted by one short press operation of the counting button. When the game points are 200 or more and less than 1000, 200 points are counted by one short press operation. When the game points are 1000 or more and less than 5000, 1000 points are counted by one short press operation. When the game points are 5000 or more and less than 10,000, 2000 points are counted by one short press operation. When the number of game points is 10,000 or more, 2500 points are counted by one short press operation. The above numerical values are specific examples and can be set as appropriate.

  (20) When counting game balls (game points) and converting the points, not only counting display but also counting sound may be output from the speaker. In addition, when counting the game points, it is conceivable to display an image in which balls are dropped one by one from the ball storage tray to the counter.

  (21) Timing for performing conversion display (display indicating that game balls are counted and the number of balls is increased) based on a counting operation and subtracting game points on the data The timing for adding the points can be varied. The calculation may be executed after the conversion display is completed. For this purpose, count data may be transmitted from the gaming machine to the CU after the conversion display is completed. It should be noted that such a modification can be similarly applied to the case where the points are converted into game points.

  (22) In the present embodiment, in the communication between the CU and the gaming machine, a command-response method is adopted in which the CU is a primary station and the gaming machine is a secondary station. The relationship may be reversed. Alternatively, instead of adopting such a communication system having a master-slave relationship, a system may be employed in which both send data to the other party when a request to communicate occurs.

  (23) In FIG. 39 or FIG. 76, game balls (game points) are stored on both the gaming machine side and the CU side, but the game balls (game points) are stored only on the game machine side, and the CU It may not be stored on the side. On the other hand, the card holding balls (scoring points) are stored only on the CU side, but may also be stored on the gaming machine side. In particular, game balls (game points) are stored only on the gaming machine side, while card holding balls (points) are stored only on the CU side to clarify the division of data storage management. Good.

  (24) The counting display and various notifications performed on the display 54F may be similarly performed on the display 312F.

  (25) In the CU, the stored number of game balls is updated based on the value of the added ball number counter (added ball number) and the value of the subtracted ball number counter (subtracted ball number) transmitted from the P platform side. When the number of game balls stored is subtracted based on the value of the counting ball number counter transmitted from the P platform side, if the value of the number of game balls becomes negative, an error (abnormal) determination is made. Then, error processing may be performed. As a specific example of error processing, error notification is performed by an abnormality notification lamp or the like, or an error notification signal indicating that an error has occurred is transmitted to the hall management computer or hall server 801F (in this case, for hall use). An error notification may be performed by the management computer or hall server 801F).

  (26) When a lending operation or a conversion operation (lending operation) from a holding point (held ball) to a gaming point (game ball) is detected, the gaming points may be counted up one by one. In order to shorten the waiting time of the player, a display may be made so that a plurality of points (for example, 25 points equivalent to 100 yen) are counted up. Conversely, when a game point counting operation is executed, a display may be made so that the points are counted up by a plurality of points. Furthermore, the number of units for counting up and displaying game points or points may be set from a plurality of types. In the setting, it is conceivable to use a touch panel of P or S display devices.

  (27) When the counting operation is executed, the points may be counted up at an accelerated rate when a predetermined time has elapsed since the counting up of the points was started. Alternatively, a speed-up button for accelerating the count display may be displayed on the touch panel display on the CU side or the gaming machine side, and the operation may be detected to display the acceleration count display. By performing the acceleration counting display of the points in this way, the waiting time of the player when counting a large number of gaming points can be shortened.

  (28) A touch sensor may be provided on the hitting operation handle, and the counting operation may be invalidated while the touch sensor detects that the player is holding the hitting operation handle. Invalidating the counting operation means detecting the counting operation but not executing the counting operation based on the detection output, or not detecting the counting operation itself. Or, if the player does not invalidate the counting operation only by touching the hitting operation handle, and if the counting operation is disabled if the hitting operation handle is turned to such an extent that the ball firing drive pulse is output. Good.

  In these cases, when a counting operation is detected, a message “Please release handle” may be displayed on the display of the gaming machine or CU. Alternatively, when the counting operation button is displayed as an icon on the touch panel screen, the counting operation button may be grayed out to notify the player that the operation is impossible.

  (29) At least one or all of the ball lending button, the return button, the replay button, and the counting button may be provided on the gaming machine side, or may be provided on the CU side. Further, it is conceivable that the button is displayed on the display device on the gaming machine side or the CU side described as the touch panel type display device.

  (30) The sequence control shown in FIG. 41 to FIG. 50 is not limited to the transmission / reception sequence between control devices in a single gaming machine such as CU3F, P stand 2F, S stand 2SF, etc., particularly regarding processing related to security. For example, the present invention may be applied to a transmission / reception sequence between a plurality of gaming machines such as a CU3F, a P stand 2F, a jet counter, and a POS terminal.

  (31) In the above-described embodiment, the identity of the player is determined based on the card ID. However, instead of or in addition to this, the identity of the player is determined based on the biomass of the player's fingerprint or retina. May be performed.

  (32) In the above-described embodiment, a so-called enclosed circulation type gaming machine (P stand 2F and S stand 2SF) is shown, but it is not limited thereto, and a game medium (such as a pachinko ball) is provided from the upper part of the island. It may be a general gaming machine that is supplied to a gaming machine and from which a gaming medium is paid out by winning. Specifically, the game is performed by hitting the balls stored in the ball storage tray into the game area, and when winning, the balls are paid out to the ball storage tray, and are paid out to the ball storage tray at the end of the game. Pachinko machines that can exchange prizes using balls may also be used. Also, the coins stored in the coin tray are inserted into the coin slot, the number of bets is input and set, and the reel is rotated and stopped by operating the start lever. When a display result winning that is sometimes displayed has occurred, a slit machine may be used in which coins are paid out to a coin tray, and paid out to the coin tray at the end of the game so that prizes can be exchanged using the coin. That is, a gaming machine that can be played using game media (pachinko balls, coins) and that pays out game media to the player in accordance with the result of the game may be used.

  (33) In the above-described embodiment, the number of game balls and game points are directly added by the occurrence of a win, but instead, the points are added by the occurrence of a win, and the added points are calculated. It may be controlled so that the number of game balls and game points are added after being withdrawn.

  (34) In the above-described embodiment, when the value is deducted within the range of the valuable value owned by the player (prepaid balance, holding ball, savings ball) and the corresponding game points are added, In the above example, game points having the same value are added, but instead, for example, control may be performed so that game points corresponding to consumption tax are added to the value actually deducted.

  (35) In the above-described embodiment, authentication is performed using various authentication keys, but authentication may be performed using, for example, an authentication ID instead of the various authentication keys.

  (36) You may comprise the above-mentioned indicator 54F and 510F with a display with a touch panel. Further, the information transmitted / received between the P platform and the CU is not limited to that described in the above-described embodiment, and it is a game that determines what information is output from the P platform to the CU. You may enable it to perform input setting by touch operation with the touch panel of the display units 54F and 510F.

  Also, in the S stand 2SF, the information output from the S stand 2SF is converted and transmitted to Hallcon in the same manner as the P stand 2F described above. As information to be converted, for example, a big bonus prize or a regular bonus prize is given. And winning information such as various small role winnings, information indicating that the replay time is in progress, the number of additions and subtractions in FIG. 76, the number of game starts, and the like. Further, the information to be converted may be the number of coins to be paid out when coins are paid out with winning.

  (37) In the above-described embodiment, the gaming machine determines that “the gaming device (CU) is a predetermined player with the gaming points as the holding points on the condition that the conversion processing for all gaming points is completed (game points = 0)”. Processing (processing that accepts a card at the gift exchange and consumes the points specified by the card and enables the exchange of the gift, and inserts the card discharged from the CU into another CU connected to another gaming machine. A validating means for validating a recording medium processing operation (card return operation (operation of the card return button 322F)) ”.

  Here, the enabling means is, for example, “means for confirming game point 0 on the P platform side and transmitting card discharge operation permission ON to CU” or “game when receiving card return notification from CU”. It is determined whether or not the number of balls is 0, and in the case of 0, a means for validating card return by returning a card return response to the CU ", and further," game by performing counting operation etc. " It is a concept that includes “means for establishing the condition that the number of balls = 0 and consequently the card return is valid”.

(38) When the payout control unit 171F receives a value (= 63) in which the round flag is raised, the abnormality control process is executed by adopting one or more of those listed in the following a to c You may control as follows.
a Display unit (for example, a 7-segment display 50F and a variable display device that variably displays identification information (design)) by the payout control unit 171F or the main control unit 161F that receives abnormality information from the payout control unit 171F Is displayed.
b CU3F that has received the abnormality information from the payout control unit 171F performs abnormality notification such as an error number.
c An abnormality notification such as an error number is performed in a host device such as a hall management computer that has received the abnormality information from the CU3F.

  (39) In the present embodiment, information specifying the front frame 5F, storage information, resale information, disposal information, and the like are included as history information of the front frame 5F stored in association with the payout control security chip ID in the payout side table. An example is shown. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and for example, maintenance information, repair information, and the like may be included as history information of the front frame 5F. Similarly, in the present embodiment, information specifying the game board 26F, storage information, resale information, discard information, and the like are stored as history information of the game board 26F stored in the main control side table in association with the main control security chip ID. Examples included are shown. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, maintenance information, repair information, and the like may be included as the history information of the game board 26F.

  (40) In the present embodiment, after a manufacturer, a warehouse, or the like completes operations such as shipping, installation, and storage, necessary information (for example, shown in FIG. 61, for example, from a terminal connected to the machine history management center 800AF). The delivery side table and the main control side table are updated by inputting the shipping date, installation date and time, removal date, sales company name, and disposal date). However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a manufacturer or a warehouse company fills in application documents with necessary information and sends the information to the history management center 800AF. The payout side table and the main control side table may be updated by inputting necessary information from a terminal or the like. Note that a terminal connected to the machine history management center 800AF is also a terminal connected directly to the machine history management center 800AF (for example, an internal terminal in the machine history management center 800AF) via a communication line. It may be a terminal (for example, a terminal of a warehouse company or a second-hand company connected via the Internet).

  (41) In this embodiment, an example in which the payout side table and the main control side table are stored in one large capacity storage device 8005F has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, even if the payout side table and the main control side table are stored separately in a plurality of large capacity storage devices, the large capacity storage device that stores the payout side table and the main control side table are stored. It may be divided into a mass storage device. Further, the payout side table and the main control side table stored in the large-capacity storage device can erase the history information of the front frame 5F and the game board 26F for each security chip ID. Even if it is associated with a pair of security chip IDs, the history information of the front frame 5F and the game board 26F can be deleted separately for each security chip ID. Thereby, even if it is the front frame 5F and the game board 26F (the period used is long compared with the front frame 5F) from which the period used is different, it can delete separately, respectively, and it can manage appropriately, respectively. it can.

  (42) In the present embodiment, an example has been shown in which a manufacturer other than the hall, a warehouse company, etc. update the payout side table and the main control side table by inputting necessary information to the machine history management center 800AF. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and for example, the payout side table and the main control side table may be updated by inputting information necessary for the hall itself to the machine history management center 800AF.

  (43) In this embodiment, when a second-hand trader resells the front frame 5F and the game board 26F to another hall and installs them, the resale information is stored as history information of the front frame 5F and the game board 26F. Indicated. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, when moving to another hole in the same group as the hole in which the front frame 5F and the game board 26F are installed (for example, a hole with the same corporate code), the front frame 5F and the game board The movement information may be stored in the history information as a simple movement of 26F (management state (status) from “installation” to “installation”). That is, even if the installation of the front frame 5F and the game board 26F moves between holes of the same corporate code, it is not determined as abnormal. In addition, if the movement of the front frame 5F and the game board 26F is permitted between halls of the same corporate code and within the same prefecture, and if it moves to other prefectures between halls of the same corporate code, the same processing as resale is performed. May be.

  (44) In this embodiment, the history management center 800AF is set as follows, for example. In the machine history management center 800AF, a user registered in the system and authenticated by clear authentication is logged into the system. Authentication at login is as follows: (a) The specified user ID exists in the system. (B) The specified user is within the account expiration date. (C) The specified user is not account-locked. (D) The entered password matches the password of the specified user ID. (E) If the current password is not within the validity period, the user is logged in, but only the user's own password change and logout can be used, and a message is displayed indicating that the password needs to be changed. If the password is changed, log out to confirm the use of the new password.

  When the authentication is successful, the history management center 800AF clears the number of login failures and the continuous login error date / time of the user. On the other hand, the history management center 800AF records the number of login failures when the authentication fails or when the user actually exists. Each time the number of login failures reaches [the maximum number of login attempts] (when it becomes an integer multiple), the date and time when the account is locked is set.

  The history management center 800AF updates / sets the password expiration date when (a) a new user is registered, (b) when the password is cleared, and (c) when the user changes the password. The updated / set password is valid from that point until the [Password Validity Period] elapses.

  If the authentication fails [the maximum number of login attempts] in the same session, the history management center 800AF transitions to the login NG screen instead of the login screen and does not attempt to log in.

  The history management center 800AF warns that at the time of login, the password may expire if the password of the user expires within the [password expiration warning period]. The warning is displayed on the login completion screen, for example, but if there is no message to be displayed on the login completion screen, the login completion screen is not displayed and the screen transits to the HOME menu.

  The machine history management center 800AF determines that (a) the number of failed login attempts by a user exceeds the [number of failed user login failures] (permanent account lock state), or (b) ] Has not passed (temporary account lock state), lock account.

  The history management center 800AF updates / sets the account expiration date when (a) a new user is registered or (b) the validity period is updated from the user information screen. The account can be used during the period from the account activation start date to the account activation end date.

  The history management center 800AF sets, for example, 20 as the maximum number of accounts that can be generated at one time at the time of initial introduction. Here, [the maximum number of login attempts] is the number of times the account is locked for a certain period of time due to consecutive failed login attempts, and is set to, for example, 5 times at the time of initial introduction. [User Invalidation Login Failure Count] is the number of times the account is permanently locked due to consecutive login attempt failures, and is 100, for example, at the time of initial introduction. [Login attempt refusal time] is a period in which the account is locked for a certain period of time due to failed login attempts, and is 30 minutes at the time of initial introduction. [Password Validity Period] is a password validity period set when the password is changed, and is 90 days at the time of initial introduction. [Password Expiration Warning Period] is a period in which an account password is about to expire, and is 14 days at the time of initial introduction.

  The machine history management center 800AF sets the minimum number of characters of a password to 8 characters, for example, at the time of initial introduction, and sets the number of generations (including the current) to prevent re-use of passwords to, for example, 3 generations at the time of initial introduction. The history management center 800AF is registered on the condition that the operator information of the corresponding user is registered in order to register the user information. The business operator information includes attribute information such as the business type and address of each business operator involved in the work of the history management center 800AF.

  The machine history management center 800AF cannot basically cancel the management state (status) of the gaming machine after input, and if an error occurs due to an erroneous operation or the like, a comment is entered in the “total machine history remarks column”. Make it clear so that others can understand. However, since there is a possibility of erroneous insertion, it is possible to cancel only the status entered from the game machine status update screen. When revocation is possible, control is performed by authority so that only a limited number of people can perform revocation. Further, when searching the machine history in order to change the management state (status) of the gaming machine, the machine history management center 800AF searches only for the latest management state (status) of the gaming machine.

The machine history management center 800AF manages the types of data and the retention periods for each type as follows, for example.
(1) Account-related data (for example, business operator information, account information, etc.): Basically, control is performed only by logical deletion, and physical deletion is not performed.
(2) Master information such as gaming machine model (for example, gaming machine model master): Basically, control is performed only by logical deletion, and physical deletion is not performed.
(3) Information that is the basis of machine history management (for example, gaming machine chip shipment information, gaming machine shipment information, etc.): Basically, changes can be made until management is started, but thereafter editing is impossible. , Manage permanently.
(4) Machine history information (for example, history information of the front frame 5F and the game board 26F): Since it is basically input of fact information, changes after input are not allowed and are managed permanently.
(5) Information notified from the card unit key management center (for example, fraud detection, etc.): Information detected by the system, and is not allowed to be changed and managed permanently.
(6) Input journals to the system (for example, Web input log, online input log, system linkage input file, etc.): 14 days are stored for each type of input and each node.
(7) Output journal from system (for example, Web output log, online output log, system transmission file, etc.): 7 days are kept for each type of output and for each node.
(8) Record of business communication of concentration / distribution (for example, distribution schedule, etc.): Information is retained for about 7 days.
(9) System temporary file (for example, CSV upload file): Deleted after application behavior. However, it is deleted when it is confirmed that the cleaning batch is unnecessary in consideration of abnormal termination.
(10) Model information that has not been updated for a long period of time (for example, model information that has not been updated for a long period of time): Holds two generations.

  In the history management center 800AF, information on the front frame 5F and the game board 26F in which the relationship between the management state (status) before the update and the management state (status) after the update becomes abnormal with respect to the abnormality in the management state (status). Can be extracted, or only the information can be output to a file. Therefore, based on the information output in the file, it is possible to notify the user of management status (status) update omission and to update the management status (status) correctly. It should be noted that a user whose management status (status) is not updated may not only be contacted but also interviewed to confirm the correct management status (status) and take a response. In addition, the machine history management center 800AF performs notification such as contacting all of the front frame 5F and the game board 26F that are currently in an abnormal management state (status). In addition, the latest information (at the time of file output) of the front frame 5F and the game board 26F that have become abnormal can be downloaded from a terminal connected to the machine history management center 800AF.

  In the history management center 800AF, the history information of the front frame 5F and the game board 26F for which the management status (status) has not been updated for a long period of time becomes a management status (status) other than “discard” or “other”. It is possible to extract only the information of the front frame 5F and the game board 26F, or to output only the information to a file. For abnormalities in which the management state (status) has not been updated for a long time, information at the time of processing is extracted by batch processing and downloaded from a terminal connected to the history management center 800AF. In addition, a threshold for the maximum number of files (at the time of initial construction: 100,000 records) is set for one file to be downloaded, and when the threshold is exceeded, output is performed to another file. Furthermore, when downloading a file, the results of processing on the same day are collected and output as a compressed file.

  (45) In the present embodiment, the configuration in which the removal information is input to the history management center 800AF has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and used movement information, discard information, trade-in information, and the like are stored in the history management center 800AF. When the information is input, the removal information may be automatically registered in the history management center 800AF. By adopting such a configuration, it is possible to manage the history of the gaming machine by assuming that it has been removed from the hall, and to reduce the burden of inputting the removal information from the hall to the history management system.

  (46) In the present embodiment, the configuration is shown in which the shipping information is registered in the machine history management center 800AF via the communication line after the gaming machine manufacturer ships the gaming machine to the hall. However, the present invention is not limited to this. A configuration may also be adopted in which shipping information is automatically registered in the machine history management center 800AF when the gaming machine manufacturer inputs information for shipping gaming machines to the hall. With this configuration, it is possible to prevent the shipping state history from being forgotten without being registered.

  (47) In the present embodiment, when a gaming machine including the front frame 5F and the gaming board 26F constituting the P board 2F is installed in the hall, the enclosed circulation pachinko machine (P machine 2F) shipped by the gaming machine maker, The history management center 800AF stores the gaming machine installation information (operation information) notified from the P table 2F in association with the security chip ID of the semiconductor chip provided in each, and is notified from the stored information and the P table 2F. Checking with game machine installation information. If the machine history management center 800AF is abnormal as a result of the collation, for example, an error notification is performed by an abnormality notification lamp or a display 312F, or an error has occurred in the hall management computer or the hall server 801F. The error notification signal is transmitted, and the abnormality is notified. However, the machine history management center 800AF is not limited to the configuration for notifying the abnormality as a result of the collation, but the P frame 2F or the front frame 5F constituting the P table 2F and the game board 26F determined to be abnormal. It may be configured to prohibit gaming. The machine history management center 800AF may be configured to temporarily allow a game on the P table 2F for a certain period of time even if it is determined to be abnormal, so as not to hinder the hall business activities.

  (48) In the present embodiment, the configuration in which the security related information is stored in the register in the payout control circuit 171aF has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and may be configured to be stored in a register (for example, the data reception register 723bF) in the communication control circuit 171b. As a result, the security-related information is stored as encrypted in the communication control circuit 171b, and the security is further improved.

  (49) In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 72 and FIG. 73, the P base itself determines that the P base 2F has been connected to the game board development jig 3EF or the development CU 3DF in the past, The configuration in which the flag indicating the determination result is transmitted to the commercial CU3F and detected by the SC325bF has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this. The P base itself determines that the P base 2F has been connected to the game board development jig 3EF or the development CU 3DF in the past, and the P base itself detects and notifies. Also in the configuration, the configuration may be such that it is detected by the SC 325bF of the CU3F based on the identification ID, based on the identification ID, that the P board 2F has been connected to the game board development jig 3EF or the development CU3DF in the past.

  It should be thought that embodiment disclosed this time is an illustration and restrictive at no points. The scope of the present invention is defined by the terms of the claims, rather than the description above, and is intended to include any modifications within the scope and meaning equivalent to the terms of the claims.

  1 Pachinko gaming machine, 2 gaming board, 3 gaming machine frame, 4A, 4B special symbol display device, 5 image display device, 6A normal winning ball device, 6B normal variable winning ball device, 7 special variable winning ball device, 8L, 8R Speaker, 9 Game Effect Lamp, 11 Main Board, 12 Production Control Board, 13 Audio Control Board, 14 Lamp Control Board, 15 Relay Board, 20 Normal Symbol Display, 21 Gate Switch, 22A, 22B Start Port Switch, 23 Count Switch, 31A stick controller, 31B push button, 32A-32C production movable member, 90 production lighting accessory, 100 game control microcomputer, 101, 121 ROM, 102, 122 RAM, 103 CPU, 104, 124 random number circuit , 105,125 I / O, 120 C for production control U, 123 display control unit, 2F pachinko machine, 2SF slot machine, 3F card unit, 16F main control board, 17F payout control board, 26F game board, 54F, 312F display, 309F card insertion / discharge port, 319F replay button 320F IR light receiving unit, 321F rental button, 322F card return button, 161F main control unit, 325F display control unit, 171F payout control unit, 50F, 50SF 7-segment display, 323F CU control unit, 12F glass door open detection switch, 13F Front frame open detection switch.

Claims (1)

After the game medium passes through the start area, the identification information is variably displayed based on the fact that a predetermined start condition is satisfied, and it is advantageous for the player when the specific display result is derived and displayed as the display result of the identification information. A game board for controlling to a specific game state,
A plurality of types of winning areas including the starting area;
Hold storage means for storing variable display hold storage information within a predetermined upper limit storage number range in which the game medium passes through the start area but the start condition is not yet satisfied,
Based on the hold storage information, a determination unit before the start condition is established that determines whether or not the display result of the variable display in which the start condition is not satisfied becomes the specific display result;
Based on the determination result of the determination means before the start condition is established, the pre-reading effect is executed to notify the possibility that the display result of the variable display becomes the specific display result before the variable display corresponding to the determination result is started. Pre-reading production execution means to
Start condition establishment time determining means for determining whether the display result of the variable display is a specific display result based on the hold storage information when the variable display start condition is satisfied;
Based on the determination result of the determination means when the start condition is satisfied, during the variable display in which the start condition is satisfied, the display result of the variable display may be a specific display result. A notice effect execution means for executing the notice effect,
A signal output means for outputting a signal capable of specifying a winning area where the game medium has won and a winning number;
With
The pre-reading effect executing means includes a first pre-reading effect executing means capable of executing a first pre-reading effect, and a ratio at which a display result of variable display corresponding to the determination result becomes a specific display result. A second pre-reading effect executing means capable of executing a second pre-reading effect different from the first pre-reading effect in a form distinguishable from the first pre-reading effect,
The notice effect execution means executes both the first prefetch effect and the second prefetch effect, and specifies the proportion of the prefetch effect that has a high ratio of the specific display result among the executed prefetch effects. An execution ratio when the determination result of the determination means when the start condition is satisfied is a specific display result with respect to an execution ratio when the determination result of the determination means when the start condition is satisfied is not a specific display result when the ratio is higher than the ratio Execute a notice effect in a production mode higher than a predetermined standard,
A game board characterized by that.

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