JP2015146900A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine capable of retaining a channel for outputting a performance sound properly.SOLUTION: A game machine outputs a first performance sound to be outputted at the time of executing a button notice and a second performance sound to be outputted at the time of executing a specific sound notice on a common channel.

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine, and more particularly to a gaming machine capable of playing a game.

  As what is generally known as this type of gaming machine, there is one that can play a game.

  Some of these gaming machines output a production sound having a frequency close to a human audible limit (Patent Document 1). In addition, there is one that searches for an empty channel and reproduces the data of the effect sound using the empty channel (Patent Document 2).

JP2003-260175A (paragraph number 0006) Japanese Patent Laying-Open No. 2005-137897 (paragraph numbers 0064 to 0074)

  However, after executing the first notice effect with the output of the first effect sound and using all the channels that output the sound, when executing the second notice effect with the output of the second effect sound, There was a possibility that the production sound could not be output because there was no empty channel.

  The present invention has been conceived in view of such circumstances, and an object thereof is to provide a gaming machine capable of securing a channel for suitably outputting a production sound.

(1) A gaming machine (pachinko gaming machine 1) capable of playing a game,
Sound output means (production control microcomputer 100, sound output board 70, speaker 27) for outputting effect sound;
The sound output means is
When the plurality of effect sounds are output simultaneously, the effect sounds are output using different channels (the effect control microcomputer 100 (sound output board 70, speaker 27) outputs the effect sound as shown in FIG. Output using any one of 8 channels of ch0 to ch7)
After executing the first notice effect (button notice) accompanied by the output of the first effect sound (notice sound outputted by the button notice), the output of the second effect sound (specific sound outputted by the specific sound notice) is accompanied. Notice effect control means (effect control microcomputer 100, voice synthesis IC 703) capable of executing a second notice effect (specific sound notice);
The simultaneous output control means (production control microcomputer 100 (speech synthesis IC 703) that outputs a sound (BGM) that is easier to hear than the second production sound simultaneously with the second production sound is shown in FIG. And output)
The notice effect control means outputs the second effect sound using the same channel as the channel used to output the first effect sound (the effect control microcomputer 100 (speech synthesis IC 703) is shown in FIG. The sound output by the button notice determined in S651 to S657 and the specific sound notice is output through the same channel).

  According to such a structure, the channel for outputting a production sound suitably can be ensured.

(2) In the gaming machine of (1),
It further comprises detection means (operation button 120) for detecting the player's movement,
The notice effect control means executes an effect in response to the detection means detecting the player's action in the first notice effect (the effect control microcomputer 100 has a button as shown at S906 in FIG. 26). An effect image and a notice sound (first effect sound) accompanying the notice are output.

  According to such a configuration, since the second notice effect can be executed after the player operates, it is possible to easily attract the player's attention to the second effect sound.

(3) In the gaming machine of (2),
The notice effect control means executes the second notice effect on condition that the player's action is detected in the first notice effect (the effect control microcomputer 100 is configured as shown in S901 to S910 in FIG. 26). The specific sound notice is executed on the condition that the operation button 120 is operated).

According to such a configuration, the player's willingness to operate can be improved.
(4) In the gaming machine of any one of (1) to (3),
The sound (BGM) that is easier to hear than the second effect sound (specific sound) output by the simultaneous output control means is a sound that is output even when the second effect sound is not output. When the sound is output simultaneously with the effect sound, the sound volume is reduced as compared with the case where the sound is not output simultaneously with the second effect sound (the effect control microcomputer 100 (speech synthesis IC 703) is shown in S909 of FIG. Thus, when the specific sound notice is executed, the volume of the BGM output at the same time is lowered to a low level).

According to such a configuration, the second effect sound can be easily noticed.
(5) In the gaming machine of any one of (1) to (4),
The display result of the identification information derived and displayed on the variable display unit that displays a plurality of types of identification information (special symbol, production symbol) each identifiable becomes a predetermined specific display result (big hit display result) A gaming machine (pachinko gaming machine 1) that controls to a specific gaming state (big hit gaming state) that is sometimes advantageous to the player,
Predetermining means (game controlling microcomputer 560, S51 to S75 in FIG. 17) for determining whether or not to control to the specific gaming state before the display result of the identification information is derived and displayed,
In the case where the second notice effect is executed in the variable display that is determined to be controlled to the specific gaming state by the prior decision means, the notice effect control means is the first notice effect as the first notice effect. A high-anticipation notice that is controlled to a specific gaming state is not executed (as shown in the second embodiment, when a specific sound notice is executed in a variable display determined to be controlled to a big hit gaming state. , Do not execute strong button notifications with high expectations for jackpots in button notifications).

  According to such a configuration, the player's expectation can be maintained even when a low-anticipation notice that is controlled to the specific gaming state is executed in the first notice effect.

(6) In the gaming machine of any one of (1) to (5),
Volume setting means (volume 706) capable of setting the volume at any one of a plurality of stages is provided,
The notice effect control means does not change the volume of the second effect sound when the setting of the volume setting means is set to a level lower than a predetermined level (the volume of the specific sound is BGM as shown in FIG. 21). Will remain at a specific level when the volume of the becomes low.)

  According to such a configuration, the volume of the second effect sound does not become too small.

It is the front view which looked at the pachinko game machine from the front. It is a figure which shows a hit classification table. It is a block diagram which shows the circuit structural example of a game control board (main board). It is a block diagram showing an example of circuit configuration of an effect control board, a lamp driver board and an audio output board. It is a block diagram which shows the internal structure of IC for speech synthesis. It is a signal flow figure which shows the flow of the signal in IC for speech synthesis. It is explanatory drawing which shows each random number. It is explanatory drawing which shows the big hit determination table and the big hit classification determination table. It is a figure which shows the fluctuation pattern table used in order to determine a fluctuation pattern in a table format. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the content of an effect control command. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of a pending | holding specific area | region and a pending | holding storage buffer. It is a flowchart which shows the main process which CPU in a main board | substrate performs. It is a flowchart which shows a timer interruption process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol process process. It is a flowchart which shows a starting port switch passage process. It is a flowchart which shows the effect process at the time of winning. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol normal process. It is a flowchart which shows production control main processing. It is a figure which shows the random number used with an effect control board. It is a flowchart which shows production control process processing. It is a timing chart which shows the relationship between a notice effect and a volume. It is a flowchart which shows an effect design fluctuation start process. It is explanatory drawing which shows a notice determination table and a specific sound notice determination table. It is a flowchart which shows an effect setting process. It is a flowchart which shows the process during effect design change. It is a flowchart which shows operation effect processing.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that a pachinko gaming machine is shown as an example of a gaming machine, but the present invention is not limited to a pachinko gaming machine, and may be another gaming machine such as a coin gaming machine or a slot machine. Any game machine may be used as long as it is a machine.

[First Embodiment]
Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. First, the overall configuration of a pachinko gaming machine 1 that is an example of a gaming machine will be described. FIG. 1 is a front view of the pachinko gaming machine 1 as seen from the front. FIG. 2 shows a hit type table.

  The pachinko gaming machine 1 includes an outer frame (not shown) formed in a vertically long rectangular shape, and a game frame attached to the inside of the outer frame so as to be opened and closed. Further, the pachinko gaming machine 1 has a glass door frame 102 formed in a frame shape that is provided on the game frame so as to be opened and closed. The game frame includes a front frame (not shown) that can be opened and closed with respect to the outer frame, a mechanism plate (not shown) to which mechanism parts and the like are attached, and various parts (games to be described later) attached to them. A structure including the board 6).

  On the lower surface of the glass door frame 2 is a hitting ball supply tray (upper plate) 3. Under the hitting ball supply tray 3, there are provided a surplus ball receiving tray 4 for storing game balls that cannot be accommodated in the hitting ball supply tray 3, and a hitting operation handle (operation knob) 5 for firing the hitting ball. A game board 6 is detachably attached to the back surface of the glass door frame 102. The game board 6 is a structure including a plate-like body constituting the game board 6 and various components attached to the plate-like body. In addition, a game area 7 is formed on the front surface of the game board 6 in which a game ball that has been struck can flow down.

  The game area 7 includes a left game area 7A (first game area) on the left side and a right game area 7B (second game area) on the right side when viewed from the top of the effect display device 9 provided in the center. The left game area 7 </ b> A that is the first game area and the right game area 7 </ b> B that is the second game area may be divided, for example, by the end face of the effect display device 9 or the arrangement of the game nails in the game area 7. When the game ball launched from the ball striking device and driven into the game area 7 is guided to the left game area 7A, the game ball is guided to the right game area 7B, for example, by being guided along the array of game nails. When it is impossible to guide or difficult to guide, and when it is guided to the right game area 7B, it is impossible to guide to the left game area 7A or difficult to guide by being guided along the arrangement of the game nails, for example.

  In the left game area 7 </ b> A, a first start winning opening 13 a is provided below the effect display device 9. In the right game area 7B, a variable winning ball device 15 having a gate 32 and a second start winning opening 13b is provided on the right side of the effect display device 9, and a special variable winning ball device 20 is provided below the effect display device 9. Is provided.

  Here, the first start winning opening 13a is provided immediately below the effect display device 9. However, when the left-handed game ball is shot to aim at the left game area 7A, the game ball is easy to win, If the player hits the game area 7B and hits the game ball rightward, the game ball is difficult to win due to the arrangement of the game nails provided on the flow path of the game ball, and therefore belongs to the left game area 7A. . The variable winning ball device 15 having the second starting winning port 13b is provided below the first starting winning port 13a. When the player makes a right strike, the game ball passes through the gate 32. Then, it can be expected that the variable winning ball device 15 is in an open state and the game ball wins the second start winning opening 13b. Therefore, the variable winning ball device 15 having the second start winning opening 13b belongs to the right game area 7B. The variable winning ball device 15 is opened by the tilt control of the movable blade piece. Further, the special variable winning ball apparatus 20 is opened during the big hit gaming state.

  In a normal state, the player does not open the special variable winning ball device 20 and the variable winning ball device 15 is not released with high frequency even if the game ball is passed through the gate 32. Therefore, the player aims at the left game area 7A. A left strike is made to strike the ball, and the game ball is awarded to the first start winning opening 13a. In the high base state (which is also a high probability state in this example), when the game ball is passed through the gate 32, the variable winning ball device 15 is released at a high frequency, so that the right to hit the right game area 7B and hit the game ball A hit is made, and the game ball is awarded to the second start winning opening 13b. In the big hit gaming state, the special variable winning ball device 20 is opened, so that the right hitting the game ball is aimed at the right game area 7B and the special ball winning ball device 20 is won.

  The number of prize balls (prize balls) to be paid out for winning in the variable prize ball device 15 is set to a very small number such as one. By doing so, even if the board surface design (including nail adjustment) is made so that balls can be awarded very frequently to the variable winning ball apparatus 15 in the open state, the number of payout balls (prize balls) will be excessive. This can be prevented, and the winning frequency to the variable winning ball apparatus 15 in the open state can be greatly improved without deteriorating the balance of the game hall.

  On the other hand, when the winning frequency to the variable winning ball device 15 in the open state is greatly improved, the variation display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol is executed in accordance with the winning. As soon as the fluctuation period is long, the reserved storage reaches the upper limit (four), and there is a wasteful situation in which fluctuation display is not performed even if the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is won. Therefore, as will be described later, at the time of high base (when the time is short), the variation display time associated with winning the variable winning ball device 15 is changed to a very short variation pattern (variation time of special symbol is 0.20 seconds), This prevents inconveniences that cause unnecessary situations.

  An effect display device 9 composed of a liquid crystal display device (LCD) is provided near the center of the game area 7. On the display screen of the effect display device 9, there is an effect symbol display area for performing a variation display of the effect symbol in synchronization with the variation display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol. Therefore, the effect display device 9 corresponds to a variable display device that performs variable display of effect symbols. In the effect symbol display area, there is a symbol display area for variably displaying, for example, three decorative (effect) effect symbols of “left”, “middle”, and “right”. The symbol display area includes “left”, “middle”, and “right” symbol display areas, but the position of the symbol display area does not have to be fixed on the display screen of the effect display device 9. Three areas of the display area may be separated. The effect display device 9 is controlled by the effect control microcomputer 100 mounted on the effect control board 80. The effect control microcomputer 100 causes the effect display device 9 to execute effect display along with the change display when the first special symbol display 8a is executing the change display of the first special symbol. When the variation display of the second special symbol is executed on the special symbol display 8b, the effect display is executed by the effect display device 9 along with the variation display, so that it is easy to grasp the progress of the game. it can.

  Further, in the effect display device 9, symbols other than the symbol that will be the final stop symbol (for example, the middle symbol of the left and right middle symbols) have continued for a predetermined time, and the jackpot symbol (for example, the left middle right symbol is aligned with the same symbol) It is stopped, swinging, enlarged, reduced, or deformed in a state that matches the symbol combination), or multiple symbols may fluctuate in synchronization with the same symbol, or the position of the display symbol may be switched. Thus, an effect performed in a state where the possibility of occurrence of a big hit (hereinafter, these states are referred to as reach states) before the final result is displayed is referred to as reach effect. Further, the reach state and its state are referred to as a reach mode. Furthermore, the fluctuation display including the reach effect is referred to as reach fluctuation display. And when the display result of the symbol variably displayed on the effect display device 9 is not a big hit symbol, it becomes “out” and the variation display state ends. The player plays the game while enjoying how to generate the big hit.

  In this embodiment, the case where the display of the effect symbol is performed as the effect of the liquid crystal display in the effect display device 9 is shown, but the effect performed in the effect display device 9 is the one shown in this embodiment. For example, an effect having a predetermined story characteristic may be executed, and an effect may be executed in which the result of the story is displayed based on the determination result of the jackpot determination or the variation pattern. For example, perform a battle effect where professional wrestling and soccer matches and enemy characters fight, perform an effect to win the game or battle if it is a big hit, and perform an effect to defeat the game or battle if it is off Also good. Further, for example, instead of displaying the result such as winning or losing, an effect may be executed in which a predetermined story such as a story is developed in order.

  At the lower right position on the game board 6, there are a first special symbol display (first variation display section) 8a for displaying the variation of the first special symbol as the identification information and the derivation display of the stop symbol, and the second special symbol. A second special symbol display (second variation display unit) 8b for performing variation display and derivation display of stop symbols is provided. In this embodiment, the first special symbol display 8a can display the LED 403 as a first display unit for performing variable display of the first special symbol, and the numbers 0 to 9, and display the stop symbol derivation display ( 7 segment LED404 as a 2nd display part which performs a stop display). In the first special symbol display 8a, the LED 403 keeps blinking repeatedly turning on and off at predetermined time intervals during the fluctuation display, and the LED 403 is turned off while the fluctuation is stopped, and the 7-segment LED 404 is turned on according to the display result. A predetermined LED (segment) among the constituent LEDs is turned on.

  A second special symbol display 8b is provided at the upper right position of the first special symbol display 8a. In this embodiment, the second special symbol display unit 8b can display the LED 405 as a first display unit for performing variable display of the second special symbol, and the numbers 0 to 9, and the derivation display of the stop symbol ( 7 segment LED406 as a 2nd display part which performs a stop display). In the second special symbol display 8b, the LED 405 continues to blink and repeats turning on and off at predetermined time intervals during the fluctuation display, and the LED 405 is turned off while the fluctuation is stopped, and the 7-segment LED 406 is turned on according to the display result. A predetermined LED (segment) among the constituent LEDs is turned on.

  In addition, the first special symbol type and the second special symbol type that are stopped and displayed on the second display portion of each of the first special symbol indicator 8a and the second special symbol indicator 8b are the same (for example, both 0 to 9), but the types may be different. In addition, the second display unit may be configured to variably display, for example, a number (or a two-digit symbol) of 00 to 99, for example.

  Hereinafter, the first special symbol and the second special symbol may be collectively referred to as a special symbol, and the first special symbol indicator 8a and the second special symbol indicator 8b are collectively referred to as a special symbol indicator (variable display unit). There are things to do.

  Although this embodiment shows a case where two special symbol indicators 8a and 8b are provided, the gaming machine may be provided with only one special symbol indicator.

  For the variation display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol, the first start condition or the second start condition, which is the execution condition of the variation display, is satisfied (for example, the game ball has the first start winning opening 13a or the second start winning opening) After passing 13b (including winning), the variable display start condition (for example, when the number of reserved memories is not 0 and the variable display of the first special symbol and the second special symbol is not executed) The state is started and the big hit game is not executed), and the display result (stop symbol) is derived and displayed when the variable time (variable display time) elapses. Note that the passing of a game ball means that the game ball has passed through a predetermined area such as a prize opening or a gate, and that includes a game ball entering (winning) a prize opening. It is. Deriving and displaying the display result is to finally stop and display a symbol (an example of identification information).

  FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a hit type table. In the hit type table of FIG. 2, for each hit type in the big hit, the big hit probability after the end of the big hit gaming state, the base after the end of the big hit gaming state, the variation time after the end of the big hit gaming state, the number of releases in the big hit ( The number of rounds) and the opening time of each round are shown.

  Specifically, in the big hit gaming state, after the special variable winning ball apparatus 20 is in the open state, a predetermined open state end condition (a predetermined period (for example, 29 seconds) has elapsed in the open state, or A closed state is established in response to the establishment of a predetermined number (for example, 10) of winning balls (opening end condition). When the opening end condition is satisfied, a continuation right is generated and the special variable winning ball apparatus 20 is opened again. The generation of the continuation right is repeated until the number of releases in the big hit gaming state reaches 15 rounds (final round), which is a predetermined upper limit value.

  Among the “big hits”, after being controlled to the big hit gaming state, the probability change state in which the probability of being determined as a big hit is higher than the normal state (the normal gaming state that is not the probability change state) as the special gaming state. The type (type) of jackpot that shifts to (an abbreviation for probability variation state, also referred to as high probability state) is called “probability jackpot”. In the present embodiment, the special gaming state is controlled to a time-short state in which the variation time (variation display period) of the special symbol or the production symbol is shortened from the non-time-short state in association with the probability variation state. There is. Note that the special gaming state may be controlled to the short time state independently of the probability variation state.

  In this way, the transition time to the short-time state reduces the variation time of the special symbol and the production symbol. Therefore, when the short-time state is reached, it is easy for an effective start winning to occur, and a big hit game may be performed. Rise.

  Note that the type of jackpot (type) that does not shift to the probability change state after being controlled to the 15-round jackpot gaming state among the “hits” is called “ordinary jackpot”.

  In addition, as the special game state, the frequency of the game ball entering the variable prize ball device 15 is increased by increasing the frequency at which the variable prize ball device 15 is opened in association with the probability change state. There is a case where it is controlled to an electric chew support control state that facilitates winning (higher approach, higher frequency) to the device 15.

  Here, electric Chu support control will be described. As electric support control, normal symbol variation time (time from the start of variation display to display result derivation display time) is shortened and the display result is derived and displayed at an early stage (normal symbol shortening control), normal symbol The control to increase the probability that the stop symbol will be a winning symbol (ordinary symbol probability changing control), the control to increase the opening time of the variable winning ball device 15 (opening time extension control), and the number of opening of the variable winning ball device 15 are increased. Control (opening number increase control) is performed. When such control is performed, the time ratio during which the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is open is higher than when the control is not performed, so the winning frequency at the second start winning opening 13b is increased. As a result, the game ball is likely to start and win (the special symbol display devices 8a and 8b and the effect display device 9 are more likely to satisfy the variable display execution condition). Further, by increasing the winning frequency to the second start winning opening 13b by such control, a gaming state is achieved in which the frequency of establishment of the second starting condition and / or the frequency of execution of the variable display of the second special symbol is increased.

  The state where the winning frequency to the second start winning opening 13b is increased by such electric Chu support control (high frequency state) is the number of game balls to be paid out as a winning ball according to the winning with respect to the number of shot balls. Since the ratio “base” is higher than when the control is not performed, it is called “high base state”. Further, when such control is not performed, it is called a “low base state”. Such control is control for facilitating winning in the variable winning ball apparatus 15 by supporting the winning with the variable winning ball apparatus 15, that is, the electric tulip, and is referred to as “electric chew support control”.

  In this embodiment, “high probability state (probability variation state)” and “low probability state (non-probability variation state)” are used as terms indicating the state of jackpot probability, and terms indicating a combination of base states are used. , “High base state (electric Chu support control state)” and “low base state (non-electric Chu support control state)” are used.

  Further, in this embodiment, as a term indicating a combination of the state of the big hit probability and the base state, “low accuracy low base state”, “low accuracy high base state”, and “high accuracy high base state” are used. Use. The “low probability low base state” is a state indicating that the state of the big hit probability is the low probability state and the base state is the low base state. The “low probability high base state” is a state indicating that the state of the big hit probability is the low probability state and the base state is the high base state. The “high probability high base state” is a state indicating that the state of the big hit probability is the high probability state and the base state is the high base state.

  As shown in FIG. 2, as the big hit of 15 rounds, a plurality of types of big hits, a normal big hit and a probable big hit, are provided.

  The normal jackpot is a jackpot that is controlled to the non-probability changing state, the time-short state, and the electric chew support control state (low-accuracy high-base state) after the end of the 15-round jackpot gaming state. The probability variation jackpot is a jackpot in which control is performed to shift to the probability variation state, the short time state, and the electric chew support control state (high probability high base state) after the end of the 15-round jackpot gaming state. In the probability variation big hit, the probability variation state, the short time state, and the electric support support control state, whichever is earlier, the condition that the fluctuation display is executed a predetermined number of times of 100 times or the condition until the next big hit occurs. It continues for a period until the other condition is satisfied. The number of times of variable display in which the time reduction state continues is also referred to as the time reduction number.

  In the normal big hit, the period until the shorter condition is satisfied, which is the condition that the time reduction state is executed a predetermined number of times of 100 times of the variable display or the condition that the next big hit occurs. continue. The normal big hit may be controlled so as to become a big hit controlled in a non-probability changing state, a non-time-short state, and a non-electricity chew support control state (low probability low base state).

  FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the circuit configuration of the main board (game control board) 31. FIG. 3 also shows the payout control board 37, the effect control board 80, and the like. A game control microcomputer (corresponding to game control means) 560 for controlling the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to a program is mounted on the main board 31. The game control microcomputer 560 includes a ROM 54 for storing a game control (game progress control) program and the like, a RAM 55 as storage means used as a work memory, a CPU 56 for performing control operations in accordance with the program, and an I / O port unit 57. including. In this embodiment, the ROM 54 and the RAM 55 are built in the game control microcomputer 560. That is, the game control microcomputer 560 is a one-chip microcomputer. The one-chip microcomputer only needs to incorporate at least the CPU 56 and the RAM 55, and the ROM 54 may be external or built-in. The I / O port unit 57 may be externally attached. The game control microcomputer 560 further includes a random number circuit 503 that generates hardware random numbers (random numbers generated by the hardware circuit).

  The RAM 55 is a backup RAM as a non-volatile storage means, part or all of which is backed up by a backup power supply created on the power supply board. That is, even if the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped, a part or all of the contents of the RAM 55 is stored for a predetermined period (until the capacitor as the backup power supply is discharged and the backup power supply cannot be supplied). In particular, at least data (a special symbol process flag or the like) corresponding to the game state, that is, the control state of the game control means, and data indicating the number of unpaid winning balls are 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 this embodiment, it is assumed that the entire RAM 55 is backed up.

  In the game control microcomputer 560, the CPU 56 executes control in accordance with the program stored in the ROM 54. Therefore, the game control microcomputer 560 (or the CPU 56) executes (or performs processing) hereinafter. Specifically, the CPU 56 executes control according to a program. The same applies to microcomputers mounted on substrates other than the main substrate 31.

  The random number circuit 503 is a hardware circuit that is used to generate a random number for determination to determine whether or not to make a big hit based on the display result of the special symbol variation display. The random number circuit 503 updates numerical data in accordance with a set update rule within a numerical range in which an initial value (for example, 0) and an upper limit value (for example, 65535) are set, and starts at a random timing Based on the fact that the winning time is the reading (extraction) of the numerical data, it has a random number generation function in which the numerical data to be read becomes a random value.

  The random number circuit 503 includes a numeric data update range selection setting function (initial value selection setting function and upper limit value selection setting function), numeric data update rule selection setting function, and numeric data update rule selection. It has various functions such as a switching function. With such a function, the randomness of the generated random numbers can be improved.

  Further, the game control microcomputer 560 has a function of setting an initial value of numerical data updated by the random number circuit 503. For example, a predetermined calculation is performed using an ID number of the game control microcomputer 560 (an ID number assigned to each product of the game control microcomputer 560) stored in a predetermined storage area such as the ROM 54. The numerical data obtained in this way is set as the initial value of the numerical data that the random number circuit 503 updates. By performing such processing, the randomness of the random number generated by the random number circuit 503 can be further improved.

  Also, an input driver circuit 58 that provides the gaming control microcomputer 560 with detection signals from the gate switch 32a, the first start port switch 14a, the second start port switch 15a, the count switch 23a, and the winning port switches 30a and 30b. It is mounted on the main board 31. An output circuit 59 for driving the solenoid 16 for opening and closing the variable winning ball apparatus 15 and the solenoid 21a for opening and closing the opening and closing plate of the special variable winning ball apparatus 20 according to a command from the game control microcomputer 560 is also mounted on the main board 31. Has been.

  An information output circuit 64 that outputs an information output signal such as jackpot information indicating the occurrence of a jackpot gaming state to an external device such as a hall computer in accordance with data given from the game control microcomputer 560 is also mounted on the main board 31. Has been.

  Further, the game control microcomputer 560 includes a first special symbol display 8a, a second special symbol display 8b, which variably displays special symbols, a normal symbol display 10, which variably displays normal symbols, and a first special symbol hold memory. Display control of the display 18a, the second special symbol storage memory display 18b, and the normal symbol storage memory display 41 is performed.

  In this embodiment, the effect control means (configured by the effect control microcomputer) mounted on the effect control board 80 instructs the effect contents from the game control microcomputer 560 via the relay board 77. An effect control command is received, and display control of the effect display device 9 that displays effect symbols in a variable manner is performed.

  Also, the effect control means mounted on the effect control board 80 controls the display of the top frame LED 28a, the left frame LED 28b, and the right frame LED 28c provided on the frame side of the game board via the lamp driver board 35. In addition, the sound output from the speaker 27 is controlled via the sound output board 70.

  FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a circuit configuration example of the relay board 77, the effect control board 80, the lamp driver board 35, and the audio output board 70. In the example shown in FIG. 4, the lamp driver board 35 and the audio output board 70 are not equipped with a microcomputer, but may be equipped with a microcomputer. Further, without providing the lamp driver board 35 and the audio output board 70, only the effect control board 80 may be provided for effect control.

  The effect control board 80 includes an effect control CPU 101 and an effect control microcomputer 100 including a RAM for storing information related to effects such as effect symbol process flags. The RAM may be externally attached. In this embodiment, the RAM in the production control microcomputer 100 is not backed up. In the effect control board 80, the effect control CPU 101 operates in accordance with a program stored in a built-in or external ROM (not shown), and receives a capture signal from the main board 31 input via the relay board 77 ( In response to the (effect control INT signal), an effect control command is received via the input driver 102 and the input port 103. Further, the effect control CPU 101 causes the VDP (video display processor) 109 to perform display control of the effect display device 9 based on the effect control command.

  In this embodiment, a VDP 109 that performs display control of the effect display device 9 in cooperation with the effect control microcomputer 100 is mounted on the effect control board 80. The VDP 109 has an address space independent of the production control microcomputer 100, and maps a VRAM therein. VRAM is a buffer memory for developing image data. Then, the VDP 109 outputs the image data in the VRAM to the effect display device 9 via the frame memory.

  The effect control CPU 101 outputs to the VDP 109 a command for reading out necessary data from a CGROM (not shown) in accordance with the received effect control command. The CGROM stores character image data and moving image data displayed on the effect display device 9, specifically, a person, characters, figures, symbols (including effect symbols), and background image data in advance. ROM. The VDP 109 reads image data from the CGROM in response to the instruction from the effect control CPU 101. The VDP 109 executes display control based on the read image data.

  The effect control command and the effect control INT signal are first input to the input driver 102 on the effect control board 80. The input driver 102 passes the signal input from the relay board 77 only in the direction toward the inside of the effect control board 80 (does not pass the signal in the direction from the inside of the effect control board 80 to the relay board 77). It is also a unidirectional circuit as a regulating means.

  As a signal direction regulating means, the signal inputted from the main board 31 is allowed to pass through the relay board 77 only in the direction toward the effect control board 80 (the signal is not passed in the direction from the effect control board 80 to the relay board 77). The unidirectional circuit 74 is mounted. For example, a diode or a transistor is used as the unidirectional circuit. FIG. 4 illustrates a diode. A unidirectional circuit is provided for each signal. Furthermore, since the effect control command and the effect control INT signal are output from the main board 31 via the output port 571 that is a unidirectional circuit, the signal from the relay board 77 toward the inside of the main board 31 is restricted. That is, the signal from the relay board 77 does not enter the inside of the main board 31 (the game control microcomputer 560 side). The output port 571 is a part of the I / O port unit 57 shown in FIG. Further, a signal driver circuit that is a unidirectional circuit may be further provided outside the output port 571 (on the relay board 77 side).

  The effect control CPU 101 drives the motor 86 to operate the movable member 78 via the output port 106.

  Further, the effect control CPU 101 inputs a signal from the operation button 120 via the input port 107 in response to a pressing operation of the operation button 120 by the player.

  Further, the effect control CPU 101 outputs a signal for driving the LED and the lamp to the lamp driver board 35 via the output port 105. Further, the production control CPU 101 outputs sound number data to the audio output board 70 via the output port 104.

  In the lamp driver board 35, signals for driving LEDs and lamps are input to the LED / lamp driver 352 via the input driver 351. The LED / lamp driver 352 supplies current to light emitters provided on the frame side such as the top frame LED 28a, the left frame LED 28b, and the right frame LED 28c based on signals for driving the LEDs and the lamp. In addition, a current is supplied to a decoration LED or the like provided on the game board side.

  In the voice output board 70, the sound number data is input to the voice synthesis IC 703 via the input driver 702. The voice synthesizing IC 703 generates voice or sound effect according to the sound number data, and outputs it to the amplifier circuit 705. The amplification circuit 705 outputs an audio signal obtained by amplifying the output level of the speech synthesis IC 703 to a level corresponding to the volume set by the volume 706 to the speaker 27. The voice data ROM 704 stores control data corresponding to the sound number data. The control data corresponding to the sound number data is a collection of data showing the output form of the sound effect or sound in a time series in a predetermined period (for example, the changing period of the effect design).

  FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing the internal configuration of the speech synthesis IC 703. The voice synthesis IC 703 is an automatic performance LSI having both an SSG sound source and a high-performance compressed voice playback function.

  In the configuration shown in FIG. 5, the CPU interface 711 is an interface for connecting to the effect control CPU 101 via the output port 104 and the input driver 702, and inputs information and signals from the effect control CPU 101. The CPU interface 711 includes / SEL (interface mode selection terminal), S6M (CPU interface mode selection terminal), / CS (chip select signal input terminal), / WR (write enable signal input terminal), ENA (enable signal or write enable). Signal input terminal), AD (address data selection signal input terminal) and CD0 to CD7 (command data input terminal from CPU: data bus) are connected. The mode is selected according to the signal levels of the terminals / SEL and S6M, and command data is written according to the mode according to the signal levels of the terminals / CS, / WR, ENA and AD.

  The timing generation circuit 712 is a circuit for generating a clock for determining processing timing, and includes XI (crystal oscillator connection terminal or external clock input terminal), XO (crystal oscillator connection terminal), and CLKO (clock output terminal). And the terminal of / RESET (reset input terminal) is connected. A crystal oscillation circuit is configured by connecting the terminals of XI and XO to a crystal oscillator. It is also possible to input an external clock from the XI terminal. A clock having a predetermined frequency is output from the CLKO terminal. When the / RESET terminal is at a low level, the internal register is initialized. The speech synthesis IC 703 needs to perform a system reset when the power is turned on.

  The external ROM interface 713 is an interface for connecting to an audio data ROM (external ROM) 704 and inputs / outputs information and signals to / from the audio data ROM 704. The external ROM interface 713 is connected to terminals MA00 to MA23 (address bus), MD00 to MD15 (data bus), and MBMD (data bus width selection signal input terminal). The external ROM interface 713 outputs an address from the terminals of MA00 to MA23 to the audio data ROM 704, and reads data from the audio data ROM 704 from the terminals of MD00 to MD15. When the MBMD terminal is at a high level, it corresponds to a 16-bit data bus, and when it is at a low level, it corresponds to an 8-bit data bus.

  The AMM decoder 714 reads phrase data compressed in the AMM data format from the voice data ROM 704 via the external ROM interface 713 in accordance with a command (command) from the effect control CPU 101, and reads the read phrase data into PCM data (Pulse Code). (Modulation). In addition, the AMM decoder 714 has a function of controlling volume, pan (a function for setting a position (direction) where sound can be heard in stereo reproduction), and bass boost (bass emphasis) in accordance with an instruction from the CPU 101 for effect control. I have. In this embodiment, the AMM decoder 714 is provided with eight channels as audio reproduction channels, and can reproduce eight independent phrases simultaneously.

  The SSG sound source 715 includes a three-line pulse generator, a single-line noise generator, and an envelope generator, and can generate various complex sounds such as sound effects and alarms.

  The digital output interface 716 is an interface for digitally outputting the phrase data decoded into PCM data by the AMM decoder 714. The digital output interface 716 is connected to terminals of LRO (word clock digital output terminal), BCO (bit clock digital output terminal), and SDO (phrase data digital output terminal). The word clock is output from the LRO terminal, the bit clock is output from the BCO terminal, and the phrase data is output from the SDO terminal. When digital output is not performed, the terminals of LRO, BCO, and SDO are opened.

  The DA converter operational amplifier 717 is a circuit that converts the phrase data decoded into PCM data by the AMM decoder 714 into analog data, amplifies the converted analog data, and outputs the analog data. The DA converter operational amplifier 717 is connected to AOL (L channel analog output terminal) and AOR (R channel analog output terminal) terminals. Analog data is output from the AOL terminal to the left speaker 27L, and analog data is output from the AOR terminal to the right speaker 27R.

  To the OR circuit 718, an AMM decoder 714 and an SSG sound source 715 are connected to the input side, and a terminal of / PLAY is output. The terminal of / PLAY becomes low level when any one of the reproduction channels of the AMM decoder 714 and the SSG sound source 715 is being reproduced. High when all playback channels are stopped.

  Next, the structure of the channel that outputs the effect sound will be described in detail. FIG. 6 is a signal flow diagram showing a signal flow in the speech synthesis IC of the speech output board. As described above, the speech synthesis IC 703 decodes phrase data in the AMM data format stored in the speech data ROM (external ROM) 704 into PCM data, and outputs various complex sounds. And an SSG sound source 715 that is independently generated and output.

  As shown in FIG. 6, the AMM decoder 714 is provided with 8 channels (ch0 to ch7) as playback channels that can independently play back phrases. The even playback channel can decode monaural and stereo phrases, and the odd playback channel can only decode mono phrases. When playback channel 0 is decoded with a stereo phrase, playback channel 1 cannot be decoded. Similarly, when the reproduction channels 2, 4, and 6 are decoded with the stereo phrase, the reproduction channels 3, 5, and 7 cannot be decoded. Note that the monaural and stereo phrases are automatically detected from the phrase data in the speech synthesis IC 703. In addition, the SSG sound source 715 is provided with two systems of sound sources that generate various sounds.

  The speech synthesis IC 703 has a built-in sequencer of 8 systems, and uses the phrase playback stop detection function and timer function to specify the output order of phrases, fade in / out, auto pan (sound image left / right, front / back) Effects that move periodically).

  The voice synthesis IC 703 executes control data (code data) registered in the voice data ROM 704 based on a command from the effect control CPU 101, and stores data in the phrase playback control register, SSG sound source control register, and sequencer register. Set and execute phrase data playback and sequencer startup.

  The phrase playback control register for controlling phrase playback includes a control register for all channels and a control register for each channel. The all channel control registers are provided with a register for setting mute, a register for setting the volume of all playback channels, a register for setting bass boost, and the like. Further, in each channel control register, a register for setting the phrase number to be played back, a register for setting the volume of each playback channel, and a pan pot (L / R localization) of each playback channel are set. There are provided a register for setting (PAN setting register), a register for setting repetition of reproduction, a register for setting reproduction start / stop, and the like.

  In the SSG sound source control register for controlling the SSG sound source 715, a register (musical frequency) for setting the frequency of the rectangular wave generated by the 6-channel (1A, 1B, 1C, 2A, 2B, 2C) pulse generator Register for setting the frequency of the noise sound generated by the noise generator, and outputting the tone (tone) and noise sound for each channel (1A, 1B, 1C, 2A, 2B, 2C) A register for setting whether or not to perform (register for mixer setting), a register for setting the volume of each channel (1A, 1B, 1C, 2A, 2B, 2C), an envelope generator (in the tone generator section of the electronic musical instrument) The part (device) that changes the sound output level from the moment you play the keyboard until the sound disappears. And a register for setting a pan pot (L / R localization) of each channel (1A, 1B, 1C, 2A, 2B, 2C) PAN setting register), a register for setting the total volume of all SSG sound channels, and the like.

  The sequencer register for controlling the sequencer includes a register for setting control data (code data) to be executed by each sequencer, a register for setting start / stop of each sequencer, and timer for each of the eight sequencers A register or the like is provided for setting the above.

  The AMM decoder 714 decodes phrase data in the AMM data format read from the audio data ROM 704 into PCM data in one or a plurality of playback channels in which data indicating the phrase number to be played is set in the control register. In the volume (VOL), the volume of the decoded audio data is adjusted according to the data set in the control register. In pan, the pan pot (L / R localization) is adjusted in accordance with the data set in the control register. Then, audio data from each reproduction channel is synthesized, and in bass boost, audio data processing for emphasizing bass according to the data set in the control register is performed. Then, the audio data is output to the output I / F (digital output interface 716 and / or DA converter operational amplifier 717).

  In the SSG tone generator 715, the pulse generator and noise generator output tone and noise source data of a predetermined frequency in accordance with the data set in the control register. The musical sound and noise sound output from the pulse generator and noise generator are mixed (mixed) by the mixer. Then, according to the data set in the control register, the envelope generator adjusts the sharpness and attenuation of the sound rise and adjusts the pan pot (L / R localization). Then, the audio data from each channel is synthesized, and the synthesized audio data is output to the output I / F (digital output interface 716 and / or DA converter operational amplifier 717).

  In the present embodiment, in any one of the channels, the sound data of the first effect sound that is output in the button notice described later and the sound data of the second effect sound that is output in the specific sound notice are synthesized and sounded. Data is output to the output I / F (digital output interface 716 and / or DA converter operational amplifier 717). The output I / Fs 716 and 717 digitally or analogly output audio data from the AMM decoder 714 and the SSG sound source 715.

FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing each random number. Each random number is used as follows.
(1) Random R: A random counter for hit determination for determining whether or not to make a big hit. Random R is updated one by one at 10 MHz, is added and updated from 0, and is added and updated to its upper limit of 65535, and then is added and updated again from 0. (2) Random 1 (MR1): Determines the type of jackpot (any type of type, normal jackpot or probability variation jackpot) and jackpot symbol (for jackpot type determination, jackpot symbol determination). (3) Random 2 (MR2): The type (type) of the variation pattern is determined (for variation pattern type determination). (4) Random 3 (MR3): A variation pattern (variation time) is determined (for variation pattern determination). (5) Random 4 (MR4): Determines whether or not to generate a hit based on the normal symbol (for normal symbol hit determination). (6) Random 5 (MR5): An initial value of random 4 is determined (for determining a random 4 initial value).

  In this embodiment, the big hit that is the specific gaming state includes a plurality of types, that is, a normal big hit and a probable big hit. Therefore, when the big hit is determined, the big hit type is determined as one of these big hit types based on the value of the big hit type determination random number (random 1). Furthermore, when the type of jackpot is determined, the jackpot symbol is also determined based on the value of the jackpot type determination random number (random 1) at the same time. Therefore, random 1 is also a jackpot symbol determining random number.

  In addition, the variation pattern is first determined using the variation pattern type determination random number (random 2), and is included in the determined variation pattern type using the variation pattern determination random number (random 3). To determine the variation pattern. Thus, in this embodiment, the variation pattern is determined by a two-stage lottery process. The variation pattern type is a group of a plurality of variation patterns according to the characteristics of the variation mode. One or more variation patterns belong to the variation pattern type.

  In this embodiment, in the case of a normal big hit and a probable big hit, the fluctuation patterns are classified into a normal reach fluctuation pattern type with normal reach and a super reach fluctuation pattern type with super reach. Such variation pattern types are selected at a predetermined rate. Further, in the case of a deviation, it is classified into a normal variation pattern type that is a variation pattern type without reach, a normal reach variation pattern type, and a super reach variation pattern type.

  In such a variation pattern type, when the display result is out of place, the selection ratio of the variation pattern type is different between the time-short state and the time-short state when not in the time-short state (compared to the time-short state and not the time-short state). Therefore, the rate of selection of variation pattern types with a short variation time such as normal variation pattern types is set to be high). , Fluctuation time is shortened.

  In addition, such a variation pattern type is set so that the selection ratio is different when the number of reserved memories of each special symbol that displays variation is greater than or equal to a predetermined number and when it is less than the predetermined number, When the number of reserved memories of each special symbol to be displayed in a variable manner is greater than or equal to a predetermined number, the number of reserved memories for each special symbol is less than the predetermined number, and the number-of-holds reduction control for reducing the variation time is executed. You may do it. For example, in the hold number shortening control state, it is set so that the rate at which the variation pattern type with a short variation time such as the normal variation pattern type is selected is higher than in the non-holding number shortening control state. You may make it the average time of a fluctuation | variation time become short compared with the time of not being a holding number shortening control state. Further, in the hold number reduction control, the change time itself of the change pattern type may be shortened even when the same change pattern type is selected as compared with the case where the hold number reduction control state is not set.

  The variation pattern may be a one-step determination method in which the variation pattern is determined by one random number lottery, instead of the two-step determination method of determining the variation pattern after determining the variation pattern type.

  FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing a jackpot determination table and a jackpot type determination table. FIG. 8A is an explanatory diagram showing a jackpot determination table. The jackpot determination table is a collection of data stored in the ROM 54 and is a table in which a jackpot determination value to be compared with the random R is set. The jackpot determination table includes a normal (non-probability change) jackpot determination table used in a normal state (a gaming state that is not a probability change state, that is, a non-probability change state), and a probability change jackpot determination table used in a probability change state.

  Each value described in the left column of FIG. 8 (A) is set as a big hit determination value in the normal jackpot determination table, and is described in the right column of FIG. 8 (A) in the probability change big hit determination table. Each value is set as a big hit judgment value. The jackpot judgment value set in the jackpot judgment table at the time of probability change is the jackpot judgment value common to the jackpot judgment value set in the normal jackpot judgment table (referred to as the normal jackpot judgment value or the first jackpot judgment value). Due to the addition of the unique jackpot judgment value, a larger number (10 times the number of jackpot judgment values) than the probability change jackpot judgment table (referred to as the jackpot judgment value or the second jackpot judgment value at the time of probability change) is set. . As a result, the probability variation state is determined to be a big hit with a higher probability than the normal state.

  The CPU 56 extracts the count value of the random number circuit 503 at a predetermined time and compares the extracted value with the value of the big hit determination random number (random R). The big hit determination random number is shown in FIG. If it matches any of the jackpot determination values shown, it is decided to make a big jackpot (normal jackpot or probable big hit) for the special symbol. Note that the “probability” shown in FIG. 8A indicates the probability (ratio) of a big hit.

  FIGS. 8B and 8C are explanatory diagrams showing a jackpot type determination table stored in the ROM 54. FIG. 8B shows a case where a jackpot type is determined using a hold memory (also referred to as a first hold memory) based on a game ball winning in the first start winning opening 13a (a variation display of the first special symbol is displayed). 1 is a first special symbol jackpot type determination table (for the first special symbol) used when FIG. 8 (C) shows a case where a big hit type is determined using a holding memory (also referred to as a second holding memory) based on a game ball winning in the second start winning opening 13b (a variation display of the second special symbol is displayed). It is a 2nd special symbol jackpot type determination table used when it is performed.

  Each of the special symbol jackpot type determination tables in FIG. 8B and FIG. 8C is a random number (random 1) for determining the jackpot type when it is determined that the variable display result is a jackpot symbol. Based on the above, the type of jackpot is determined as either “normal jackpot” or “probability jackpot” and is also referred to in determining the jackpot symbol.

  The first special symbol jackpot type determination table of FIG. 8B is a numerical value to be compared with a random value of 1, and each of the determination values corresponding to the “normal jackpot” and “probability variation jackpot” (the jackpot type determination) Value) is set. In the second special symbol jackpot type determination table of FIG. 8C, there are numerical values to be compared with random 1 values, which are judgment values corresponding to “normal jackpot” and “probability big hit” (jackpot type judgment). Value) is set.

  Further, as shown in FIGS. 8B and 8C, the big hit type determination value is also used as a determination value (big hit symbol determination value) for determining the big hit symbol of the first special symbol and the second special symbol. The determination value corresponding to “normal jackpot” is also set as the determination value corresponding to “3” of the jackpot symbol of the first special symbol and the second special symbol. The determination value corresponding to “probable big hit” is also set as the determination value corresponding to “7” of the big hit symbol of the first special symbol and the second special symbol.

  Using such a jackpot type determination table, the CPU 56 determines the type corresponding to the jackpot type determination value with which the random 1 value is matched as the jackpot type, and the jackpot with which the value of random 1 is matched as the jackpot symbol. Determine the design. Thereby, the jackpot type and the jackpot symbol corresponding to the jackpot type are determined at the same time.

  It should be noted that the first special symbol jackpot type determination table in FIG. 8B and the second special symbol jackpot type determination table in FIG. 8C have the same ratio determined for probability variation jackpots. In such a case, the big hit type determination table may not be divided between the first special symbol and the second special symbol. Also, the jackpot type allocation may be different. For example, the second special symbol jackpot type determination table in FIG. 8C may have a higher ratio determined for probability variation jackpots than the first special symbol jackpot type determination table in FIG. 8B. . By doing so, the variation display of the second special symbol can be more likely to be a big hit than the variation display of the first special symbol. In addition, the first special symbol jackpot type determination table may be set to have a higher ratio determined for the probability variation jackpot than the second special symbol jackpot type determination table.

  Next, a variation pattern table used to select and determine the variation pattern of the special symbol and the effect symbol in the game control microcomputer 560 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a variation pattern table used for determining the variation pattern in a table format.

  In FIG. 9, (a) shows a determination table for when the normal state is shifted, and (b) shows a determination table for when the time-short state is shifted. Further, (c) shows a normal big hit determination table, and (d) shows a probability variation big hit determination table. Each determination table of FIGS. 9A to 9D is stored in the ROM 54, is selected according to the gaming state, and is used to determine (determine) the variation pattern type and variation pattern.

  The determination table shown in FIG. 9 includes a variation pattern type determination table that indicates the relationship between the random 2 and the variation pattern type, and a variation pattern determination table that indicates the relationship between the random 3 and the variation patterns belonging to various types for each variation pattern type. Including.

  In the column of “variation pattern type” or “variation pattern” in each table of FIG. 9, “normal” or “normal variation” indicates a normal variation pattern that does not reach.

  Further, “normal reach” in each table of FIG. 9 indicates a fluctuation pattern of normal reach that does not perform a particularly flashy effect when the reach state is reached. “Super Reach” indicates a variation pattern for performing a reach effect in which a special effect image is displayed when the reach state is reached.

  Further, as described above, “super reach” is a variation pattern in which the ratio selected when a big hit is higher than that of “normal reach” is high, and the reliability of the big hit is high. Furthermore, “super reach” is a variation pattern in which the variation time is longer than that of “normal reach” (for example, normal reach 10 seconds, super reach 30 seconds). Note that the codes A and B for normal reach and the codes A and B for super reach indicate the types of reach production, and the big hit is given by the relationship of normal reach A <normal reach B <super reach A <super reach B. It shows that the degree of expectation is high.

  “Out of” is a variation pattern in which the final display result of the variation display is a “out of” display result. “Normal jackpot” is a variation pattern in which the final display result of the variation display becomes a display result of “ordinary jackpot”. “Probability variation jackpot” is a variation pattern in which the final display result of the variation display becomes the display result of “probability variation big hit”.

  Based on these pieces of information, for example, the variation pattern “Super reach A out of range (30 seconds)” shown in the column of “variation pattern” is “ It is shown that this is a “variation pattern”.

  In the table of FIG. 9, “Random 2 range” and “Variation pattern type” are described as a variation pattern type determination table section indicating the relationship between “Random 2 range” and “Variation pattern type”. It is a column to show. For example, taking FIG. 9A as an example, each of a plurality of variation pattern types such as “normal”, “normal reach”, and “super reach” includes a plurality of random 2 (1 to 251) values. It is divided into numerical ranges. When the random 2 value extracted at a predetermined timing matches one of the determination values assigned to 140 to 229 among the random values 1 to 251, the variation pattern type is determined to be “normal reach”. Is done.

  In the table of FIG. 9, the columns described as “Random 3 Range” and “Variation Pattern” are columns indicating functions as a variation pattern determination table indicating the relationship between “Random 3 Range” and “Variation Pattern”. It is. The variation patterns shown corresponding to each type of variation pattern type determination table are variation patterns belonging to each type. For example, taking FIG. 9 (a) as an example, the fluctuation patterns belonging to the type of “normal reach” are “normal reach A miss” and “normal reach B miss”.

All values of random 3 (1-220) are assigned to a plurality of numerical ranges in each of a plurality of variation patterns corresponding to each variation pattern type. For example, taking FIG. 9A as an example, when it is determined that the variation pattern type of “normal reach” is selected, random 3 extracted at a predetermined timing is 1 to 220 of random values 1 to 220. When it matches one of the determination values assigned to 140, the fluctuation pattern is “Normal reach A”.
It is determined that the fluctuation pattern of “out of range (10 seconds)” is used.

  When the variation display result for the first special symbol or the second special symbol is off, the determination table is selected as follows to determine the variation pattern. In the non-short-time state, when the fluctuation display result is out of place, the normal state out-of-state determination table in FIG. 9A is selected. On the other hand, when the variable display result is out of time in the time reduction state, the time reduction state determination table in FIG. 9B is selected. In addition, by using the determination tables of FIGS. 9A and 9B, the reach ratio at the time of deviation from the normal state and from the short-time state is constant regardless of the number of holds.

  In addition, when the variation display result is a big hit for the first special symbol or the second special symbol regardless of whether the time is short or not, the determination table is selected as follows in order to determine the variation pattern. When the fluctuation display result is a normal big hit, the normal big hit determination table of FIG. 9C is selected. When the variation display result is a probable big hit regardless of whether the time is short or not, the probable big hit determination table of FIG. 9D is selected.

  The time fluctuation state determination table of FIG. 9B is a normal fluctuation whose fluctuation time is shorter than the reach fluctuation (including normal reach fluctuation and super reach fluctuation) compared to the normal state deviation time determination table of FIG. (Non-reach deviation fluctuation (variation that results in deviation display instead of reach)) is high, and the data is determined so that the percentage that is determined to reach fluctuation with longer fluctuation time than normal fluctuation is low. Is set. Further, as a variation pattern of the normal variation, a variation pattern having a variation time shorter than that in the normal state deviation determination table of FIG. 9A is set in the short time state deviation determination table of FIG. 9B. .

  As a result, compared to the non-time-short state (normal state), the rate of change in the short-time state is higher in the time-short state, so the time-short state is the non-time-short state. The change display is performed with a change time shorter than that in the mean time. By selecting the determination table in this way, the time saving state can be realized. In addition, by setting the normal fluctuation so that the fluctuation time is shorter in the time-short state than in the non-time-short state, it is possible to shorten the pending digestion during the time-short state.

  Further, in the determination tables of FIG. 9A and FIG. 9B that are selected when there is a loss, data is selected so that the selection ratio of the reach type is selected in a high and low relationship such that normal reach> super reach. Is set. On the other hand, in the determination tables of FIG. 9C and FIG. 9D that are selected when a big win is reached, the selection ratio of the reach type is selected in a high / low relationship such that normal reach <super reach. Data is set. As a result, the percentage of super reach reach production (the percentage of super reach reach production when a reach is selected) is higher when a big hit is made than when it is a loss. By performing the reach production, the player's expectation can be enhanced.

  In addition, in the determination table of FIG. 9D selected when the big hit is a probable big hit, compared to the determination table of FIG. 9C selected when the big hit is a normal big hit, the reach is normal. On the other hand, the data is set so that the ratio of selecting the type of super reach production is high. As a result, when the probability is a big hit, the ratio of the reach reach of the super reach (the ratio of the reach reach of the super reach when the reach is selected) is higher than the case of the normal big win. By performing the reach of reach, it is possible to increase the player's expectation for a promising big hit.

  Note that such a variation pattern is obtained when the total number of reserved storage (total value) of the first special symbol and the second special symbol that display variation is greater than or equal to a predetermined number (for example, the total number of reserved storage is 3 or more). By setting the selection ratio to be different from when the number is less than the predetermined number, when the total number of pending storage is greater than or equal to the predetermined number, the variation time is longer than when the total number of pending storage is less than the predetermined number It is also possible to execute the hold number shortening control for shortening. However, the expectation for reach can be maintained by keeping the ratio of reach (including normal reach and super reach) constant even under the condition that the hold number shortening control is executed (for example, the total number of stored holds is 3 or more). In addition, among the reach, only the super reach B may not be shortened, and the hold time reduction control may be executed. Furthermore, the short time control of the number of holdings may be executable by selecting a high rate of normal fluctuation with a short fluctuation time, or may be executable by shortening the fluctuation time of each fluctuation pattern itself, The combination may be used.

  FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the contents of the effect control command transmitted by the game control microcomputer 560. In the game control microcomputer 560, as shown in FIG. 10, various effect control commands are transmitted to the effect control microcomputer 100 in accordance with the game control state.

  Main commands in FIG. 10 will be described. The command 80XX (H) is an effect control command (variation pattern command) for designating a variation pattern of the effect symbol that is variably displayed on the effect display device 9 corresponding to the variation display of the special symbol (each corresponding to the variation pattern XX). ). That is, when a unique number is assigned to each variation pattern that can be used as shown in FIG. 9, there is a variation pattern command corresponding to each variation pattern specified by the number. “(H)” indicates a hexadecimal number. The effect control command for designating the variation pattern is also a command for designating the start of variation. Accordingly, when the effect control CPU 101 receives the command 80XX (H), the effect display device 9 controls the effect display device 9 to start displaying the effect symbols in a variable manner.

  Commands 8C01 (H) to 8C03 (H) are display result designation commands indicating whether or not to make a big hit and the type of big hit.

  The command 8D01 (H) is a first symbol variation designation command indicating that the variation display of the first special symbol is started. Command 8D02 (H) is a second symbol variation designation command indicating that the variation display of the second special symbol is started. The command 8F00 (H) is a command (design determination designation command) for designating to end the variation of the first and second special symbols.

  The commands A001 to A002 (H) are jackpot start designation commands for designating the start of the jackpot gaming state for each jackpot type (normal jackpot or probability variation jackpot).

  The command A1XX (H) is a special winning opening open designation command that indicates a display during opening of the special winning opening for the number of times (round) indicated by XX. A2XX (H) is a designation command after opening the big prize opening indicating the opening (closing) of the big prize opening of the number of times (round) indicated by XX.

  The commands A301 to A302 (H) are jackpot end designation commands for designating the end of the jackpot gaming state for each jackpot type (normal jackpot or probability variation jackpot).

  Command A 401 (H) is a first start winning designation command for designating that the first starting win has been received. Command A 402 (H) is a second start winning designation command for designating that there has been a second start winning.

  Command B000 (H) is a normal state designation command for designating that the gaming state is a normal state (low probability state). Command B001 (H) is a short time state designation command for designating that the gaming state is the short time state (high base state). Command B002 (H) is a probability variation state designation command for designating that the gaming state is a probability variation state (high probability state).

  The command C0XX (H) is a total pending storage number designation command for designating the total number (total pending storage count) of the first pending storage count and the second pending storage count. “XX” in the command C0XX (H) indicates the total pending storage number. Command C100 (H) is an effect control command (total pending storage count subtraction designation command) that designates that 1 is added to the total pending storage count. In this embodiment, the game control microcomputer 560 transmits a total pending memory count subtraction designation command when subtracting the total pending memory count, but does not use the total pending memory count subtraction designation command. When subtracting the total pending storage number, a total pending storage number designation command for designating the total pending storage number after subtraction may be transmitted.

  In this embodiment, a case is shown in which a combined pending storage number designation command for designating the combined pending storage number is transmitted as a command for designating the reserved storage count. It may be configured to transmit a command for designating the increased number of reserved memories. Specifically, when the first reserved memory increases, a first reserved memory number designation command for designating the first reserved memory number is transmitted, and when the second reserved memory increases, the second reserved memory number is designated. The second reserved memory number designation command may be transmitted.

  The command C2XX (H) and the command C3XX (H) are the results of winning determination results such as jackpot determination, jackpot type determination, variation pattern type determination, etc. at the time of starting winning to the first starting winning port 13a or the second starting winning port 13b. This is an effect control command indicating the contents. Of these, the command C2XX (H) is a symbol designating command indicating whether or not the winning determination result is a big hit and the determination result of the type of big hit. The command C3XX (H) is a variation type command that indicates a determination result (variation pattern type determination result) of which determination value range the random value for variation pattern type determination among the winning determination results. It is.

  In this embodiment, in a winning effect process described later, whether or not the game control microcomputer 560 is a big hit at the start winning, whether the big hit type or the variation pattern type determination random number is any determination value. It is determined whether it falls within the range. Then, in the EXT data of the symbol designating command, a value for designating the big hit and a value for designating the type of the big win are set, and control for transmission to the production control microcomputer 100 is performed. Further, a value for designating a range of a judgment value as a judgment result of the fluctuation pattern type is set in the EXT data of the fluctuation type command, and control to transmit to the production control microcomputer 100 is performed. In this embodiment, the production control microcomputer 100 can recognize whether or not the display result is a big hit based on the value set in the symbol designating command, the type of the big hit, and based on the variation type command. Thus, the variation pattern type can be recognized.

  FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of the reserved storage buffer in the game control microcomputer 560.

  FIG. 11A is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of a reserved storage specifying information storage area (holding specified area). The reserved specific area is formed in the RAM 55 (the area in the RAM 55), and as shown in FIG. 11A, the maximum value of the total reserved memory number counter for counting the total number of reserved memories (in this example, 8). ) Is reserved. FIG. 11A shows an example in which the value of the total pending storage number counter is 5.

  As shown in FIG. 11 (A), the reserved specific area is “first” or “second” in the order of winning based on winning in the first starting winning port 13a or the second starting winning port 13b. The indicated data is set. Therefore, data that can specify the winning order to the first start winning opening 13a and the second starting winning opening 13b is stored in the hold specifying area. Note that the reserved specific area is formed in the RAM 55.

  FIG. 11B is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of a storage area (holding storage buffer) for storing random numbers and the like corresponding to holding storage. As shown in FIG. 11B, a storage area corresponding to the upper limit value (4 in this example) of the first reserved storage number is secured in the first reserved storage buffer. In addition, a storage area corresponding to the upper limit value of the second reserved storage number (4 in this example) is secured in the second reserved storage buffer. The first reserved storage buffer and the second reserved storage buffer are formed in the RAM 55. The first reserved storage buffer and the second reserved storage buffer include a jackpot determination random number (random R) that is a hardware random number, a jackpot type determination random number (random 1) that is a software random number, and a variation pattern type determination random number. (Random 2) and random number for variation pattern determination (Random 3) are stored.

  Based on the winning at the first starting winning opening 13a or the second starting winning opening 13b, the CPU 56 extracts such random number values from the random number circuit 503 and a random counter for generating software random numbers, A process of saving (storing) in the saving area in the first pending storage buffer or the second pending storage buffer is executed. Specifically, these random numbers are extracted and stored in the first reserved storage buffer based on winning at the first start winning opening 13a. Also, based on the winning at the second start winning opening 13b, these random number values are extracted and stored in the second reserved storage buffer.

  In this manner, storing the information related to the start winning as described above in the first hold storage buffer or the second hold storage buffer may be indicated as “hold stored”. Note that the random number for variation pattern type determination (random 2) and the random number for variation pattern determination (random 3) are not extracted at the time of starting winning and stored in advance in the storage area, but instead are stored in a variation pattern setting process (to be described later) You may make it extract at the time of the change of special symbols).

  The data stored in the reserved specific area and the storage area in this way is read out at the start of the variable display and used for the variable display. Before starting variable display, the data stored in the hold specific area and storage area is read out at the time of winning a start and the variable display result is subject to advance notice such as the possibility of a big hit. You may use for the prefetch notice effect which can be performed based on the hold information of a game.

  When there is a start winning at the first start winning port 13a or the second start winning port 13b, the main board 31 is made up of three commands of a symbol designating command, a variation type command, and a combined reserved memory number designating command as one set. To the effect control board 80. The received command buffer at the start winning prize provided in the RAM of the effect control microcomputer 100 can store various commands such as the received symbol designation command, variation type command, and total pending memory number designation command in association with each other. In addition, a storage area for storing data that can identify the received command is secured.

  In this embodiment, the effect control pattern of the effect symbol performed in response to the variation display of the first special symbol and the second special symbol corresponds to a plurality of types of variation patterns, the variation display operation of the effect symbol, the reach It is composed of data indicating the contents of control of various effect operations, such as effect display operations in effects, etc., or various effect operations that are not accompanied by display changes of effect symbols. The notice effect control pattern includes data indicating the control content of the effect operation that becomes the notice effect executed corresponding to the notice pattern in which a plurality of patterns are prepared in advance. 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.

  Next, the operation of the gaming machine will be described. FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a main process executed by the game control microcomputer 560 on the main board 31. When power is supplied to the gaming machine and power supply is started, the input level of the reset terminal to which the reset signal is input becomes high level, and the gaming control microcomputer 560 (specifically, the CPU 56) After executing a security check process, which is a process for confirming whether the contents of the program are valid, the main process after step S (hereinafter simply referred to as S) 1 is started. In the main process, the CPU 56 first performs necessary initial settings.

  In the initial setting process, the CPU 56 first sets the interrupt prohibition (S1). Next, the interrupt mode is set to interrupt mode 2 (S2), and a stack pointer designation address is set to the stack pointer (S3). Then, after initialization of the built-in device (such as CTC (counter / timer) and PIO (parallel input / output port) which are built-in devices (built-in peripheral circuits)) is performed (S4), the RAM is made accessible. Set (S5). In the interrupt mode 2, the address synthesized from the value (1 byte) of the specific register (I register) built in the CPU 56 and the interrupt vector (1 byte: least significant bit 0) output from the built-in device is This mode indicates an interrupt address.

  Next, the CPU 56 checks the state of the output signal (clear signal) of the clear switch (for example, mounted on the power supply board) input via the input port (S6). When the ON is detected in the confirmation, the CPU 56 executes normal initialization processing (S10 to S15).

  If the clear switch is not on, check whether data protection processing of the backup RAM area (for example, power supply stop processing such as addition of parity data) was performed when power supply to the gaming machine was stopped (S7). When it is confirmed that such protection processing is not performed, the CPU 56 executes initialization processing. Whether there is backup data in the backup RAM area is confirmed, for example, by the state of the backup flag set in the backup RAM area in the power supply stop process.

  After confirming that the power supply stop process has been performed, the CPU 56 checks the data in the backup RAM area (S8). In this embodiment, a parity check is performed as a data check. Therefore, in S8, the calculated checksum is compared with the checksum calculated and stored by the same process in the power supply stop process. When the power supply is stopped after an unexpected power failure or the like, the data in the backup RAM area should be saved, so the check result (comparison result) is normal (matched). That the check result is not normal means that the data in the backup RAM area is different from the data when the power supply is stopped. In such a case, since the internal state cannot be returned to the state when the power supply is stopped, an initialization process that is executed when the power is turned on is not performed when the power supply is stopped.

  If the check result is normal, the CPU 56 performs a game state restoration process (in S41 to S43) for returning the internal state of the game control means and the control state of the electric component control means such as the effect control means to the state when the power supply is stopped. Process). Specifically, the start address of the backup setting table stored in the ROM 54 is set as a pointer (S41), and the contents of the backup setting table are sequentially set in the work area (area in the RAM 55) (S42). The work area is backed up by a backup power source. In the backup setting table, initialization data for an area that may be initialized in the work area is set. As a result of the processing of S41 and S42, the saved contents remain as they are in the portion of the work area that should not be initialized. The parts that should not be initialized include, for example, data indicating a gaming state before stopping power supply (special symbol process flag, high probability flag, high base flag, etc.), and an area (output) where the output state of the output port is saved Port buffer), a portion in which data indicating the number of unpaid winning balls is set.

  Further, the CPU 56 transmits a power failure recovery designation command as an initialization command at the time of power supply recovery (S43). In addition, the CPU 56 transmits a display result designation command designating the display result (15R big hit A, 15R big hit B, or off) stored in the backup RAM to the effect control board 80 (S44). Then, the process proceeds to S14. In S44, for example, when the value of a special symbol pointer, which will be described later, is also stored in the backup RAM, the CPU 56 may transmit the first symbol variation designation command and the second symbol variation designation command. . In this case, the production control microcomputer 100 may resume the variation display of the fourth symbol based on the reception of the first symbol variation designation command or the second symbol variation designation command.

  In this embodiment, the value of a variable time timer (to be described later) is also stored in the backup RAM area. Therefore, when the power failure is restored, after the display result designation command is transmitted in S44, the measurement of the saved variable time timer value is resumed, and the fluctuation display of the special symbol is resumed and saved. When the value of the variable time timer has timed out, a symbol determination designation command to be described later is further transmitted. In this embodiment, a special symbol process flag value, which will be described later, is also stored in the backup RAM area. Therefore, when the power failure is recovered, the special symbol process is resumed from the process corresponding to the value of the stored special symbol process flag.

  Note that the display result designation command is not necessarily transmitted when the power failure is restored, but the CPU 56 may first confirm whether or not the value of the variable time timer stored in the backup RAM area is zero. . If the value of the variation time timer is not 0, it is determined that a power failure occurs during the variation, and a display result designation command is transmitted. It may be determined that the state has not been reached, and the display result designation command may not be transmitted.

  Further, the CPU 56 may first check whether or not the value of the special symbol process flag stored in the backup RAM area is 3. If the value of the special symbol process flag is 3, it is determined that the power failure occurs during the fluctuation, and a display result designation command is transmitted. If the special symbol process flag is not 3, the fluctuation occurs at the time of the power failure. The display result designation command may not be transmitted because it is determined that it is not in the middle.

  In this embodiment, it is confirmed whether the data in the backup RAM area is stored using both the backup flag and the check data. However, only one of them may be used. That is, either the backup flag or the check data may be used as an opportunity for executing the game state restoration process.

  In the initialization process, the CPU 56 first performs a RAM clear process (S10). The RAM clear process initializes predetermined data (for example, count value data of a counter for generating a random number for normal symbol determination) to 0, but an arbitrary value or a predetermined value It may be initialized to. In addition, the entire area of the RAM 55 may not be initialized, and predetermined data (for example, count value data of a counter for generating a random number for normal symbol determination) may be left as it is. The initial address of the initialization setting table stored in the ROM 54 is set as a pointer (S11), and the contents of the initialization setting table are sequentially set in the work area (S12).

  By the processing of S11 and S12, for example, a random number counter for normal symbol determination, a special symbol buffer, a total prize ball number storage buffer, a special symbol process flag, and other flags for performing processing selectively according to the control state are initialized. Is set.

  Further, the CPU 56 initializes a sub board (a board on which a microcomputer other than the main board 31 is mounted) (a command indicating that the game control microcomputer 560 has executed an initialization process). (S13) is transmitted to the sub-board (S13). For example, when the effect control microcomputer 100 receives the initialization designation command, the effect display device 9 performs screen display for informing that the control of the gaming machine has been initialized, that is, initialization notification.

  Further, the CPU 56 executes a random number circuit setting process for initially setting the random number circuit 503 (S14). For example, the CPU 56 performs setting according to the random number circuit setting program to cause the random number circuit 503 to update the value of the random R.

  In S15, the CPU 56 sets a CTC register built in the game control microcomputer 560 so that a timer interrupt is periodically taken every predetermined time (for example, 4 ms). That is, a value corresponding to, for example, 4 ms is set in a predetermined register (time constant register) as an initial value. In this embodiment, it is assumed that a timer interrupt is periodically taken every 4 ms.

  When the execution of the initialization process (S10 to S15) is completed, the CPU 56 repeatedly executes the display random number update process (S17) and the initial value random number update process (S18) in the main process. When executing the display random number update process and the initial value random number update process, the interrupt disabled state is set (S16), and when the display random number update process and the initial value random number update process are completed, the interrupt enabled state is set. (S19). In this embodiment, the display random number is a random number for determining the stop symbol of the special symbol when it is not a big hit, or a random number for determining whether to reach when it is not a big hit, The random number update process is a process for updating the count value of the counter for generating the display random number. The initial value random number update process is a process for updating the count value of the counter for generating the initial value random number. In this embodiment, the initial value random number is the initial value of the count value of the counter for generating a random number for determining whether or not to win for a normal symbol (normal random number generation counter for normal symbol determination). It is a random number to determine. A game control process for controlling the progress of the game, which will be described later (the game control microcomputer 560 is a game display device provided in the game machine, a variable winning ball device 15, a ball payout device, etc. In the process of controlling, the process of sending a command signal to cause another microcomputer to control, or the game device control process), the count value of the random number for determining the normal symbol is one round (the random number for determining the normal symbol) When the number of values between the minimum value and the maximum value that can be taken is increased), an initial value is set in the counter.

  When the timer interrupt occurs, the CPU 56 executes the timer interrupt process of S20 to S34 shown in FIG. In the timer interrupt process, first, a power-off detection process for detecting whether or not a power-off signal has been output (whether or not an on-state has been turned on) is executed (S20). The power-off signal is output, for example, when a power supply monitoring circuit mounted on the power supply board detects a decrease in the voltage of the power supplied to the gaming machine. In the power-off detection process, when detecting that the power-off signal has been output, the CPU 56 executes a power supply stop process for saving necessary data in the backup RAM area. Next, detection signals of the gate switch 32a, the first start port switch 14a, the second start port switch 15a, the count switch 23a, and the winning port switches 30a and 30b are input via the input driver circuit 58, and their state determination is performed. (Switch processing: S21).

  Next, the CPU 56 has a first special symbol display 8a, a second special symbol display 8b, a normal symbol display 10, a first special symbol hold storage display 18a, a second special symbol hold storage display 18b, a normal symbol. A display control process for controlling the display of the on-hold storage display 41 is executed (S22). For the first special symbol display 8a, the second special symbol display 8b, and the normal symbol display 10, control for outputting a drive signal to each display according to the contents of the output buffer set in S32 and S33. Execute.

  Further, a process of updating the count value of each counter for generating each random number for determination such as a random number for normal symbol determination used for game control is performed (determination random number update process: S23). The CPU 56 further performs a process of updating the count value of the counter for generating the initial value random number and the display random number (initial value random number update process, display random number update process: S24, S25).

  Further, the CPU 56 performs a special symbol process (S26). In the special symbol process, corresponding processing is executed according to a special symbol process flag for controlling the first special symbol indicator 8a, the second special symbol indicator 8b, and the special winning award in a predetermined order. The CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag according to the gaming state.

  Next, the normal symbol process is performed (S27). In the normal symbol process, the CPU 56 executes the corresponding process according to the normal symbol process flag for controlling the display state of the normal symbol display 10 in a predetermined order. The CPU 56 updates the value of the normal symbol process flag according to the gaming state.

  Further, the CPU 56 performs a process of sending an effect control command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (effect control command control process: S28).

  Further, the CPU 56 performs information output processing for outputting data such as jackpot information, starting information, probability variation information supplied to the hall management computer, for example (S29).

  Further, the CPU 56 executes prize ball processing for setting the number of prize balls based on the detection signals of the first start port switch 14a, the second start port switch 15a, the count switch 23a, and the winning port switches 30a and 30b ( S30). Specifically, the payout control board 37 responds to the winning detection based on the fact that any of the first starting port switch 14a, the second starting port switch 15a, the count switch 23a, and the winning port switches 30a and 30b is turned on. A payout control command (award ball number signal) indicating the number of prize balls is output to a mounted payout control microcomputer. The payout control microcomputer drives the ball payout device 97 in accordance with a payout control command indicating the number of winning balls.

  In this embodiment, a RAM area (output port buffer) corresponding to the output state of the output port is provided. However, the CPU 56 relates to on / off of the solenoid in the RAM area corresponding to the output state of the output port. The contents are output to the output port (S31: output processing).

  Further, the CPU 56 performs special symbol display control processing for setting special symbol display control data for effect display of special symbols in an output buffer for setting special symbol display control data according to the value of the special symbol process flag ( S32).

  Further, the CPU 56 performs a normal symbol display control process of setting normal symbol display control data for effect display of the normal symbol in the output buffer for setting the normal symbol display control data according to the value of the normal symbol process flag ( S33). For example, when the start flag for normal symbol fluctuation is set, the CPU 56 changes the display state (the LED 401 is turned on and off) every 0.1 second until the end flag is set. In the case of the speed, the value of the display control data set in the output buffer (for example, 1 indicating “lighting” and 0 indicating “lighting off”) is switched every 0.1 seconds. Further, the CPU 56 outputs a normal signal on the normal symbol display 10 by outputting a drive signal in S22 in accordance with the display control data set in the output buffer.

Thereafter, the interrupt permission state is set (S34), and the process ends.
With the above control, in this embodiment, the game control process is started every 4 ms. The game control process corresponds to the processes of S21 to S33 (excluding S29) in the timer interrupt process. In this embodiment, the game control process is executed by the timer interrupt process. However, in the timer interrupt process, for example, only a flag indicating that an interrupt has occurred is set, and the game control process is performed by the main process. May be executed.

  FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the special symbol process (S26). In the special symbol process, a process for controlling the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b and the special winning opening is executed. In the special symbol process, a start port switch passing process is executed (S312). Then, any one of S300 to S307 is performed according to the internal state.

The processing of S300 to S307 is as follows.
Special symbol normal processing (S300): Executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is zero. When the game control microcomputer 560 enters a state where the special symbol variation display can be started, the game control microcomputer 560 checks the number of numerical data stored in the reserved storage buffer (total number of reserved storage). The stored number of numerical data stored in the hold storage buffer can be confirmed by the count value of the combined hold storage number counter. If the count value of the total pending storage number counter is not 0, it is determined whether or not the display result of the variable display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol is a big hit. In case of big hit, set big hit flag. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (1 in this example) corresponding to S301. The jackpot flag is reset when the jackpot game ends.

  Fluctuation pattern setting process (S301): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 1. Also, the variation pattern is determined, and the variation time (variable display time: the time from the start of variable display (variable display) to the time when the display result is derived and displayed (stop display)) is determined as the variation time of the special pattern. It is decided to. Further, control is performed to transmit a variation pattern command corresponding to the determined variation pattern to the production control microcomputer 100, and a variation time timer for measuring the variation time of the special symbol is started. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to S302 (2 in this example).

  Display result designation command transmission process (S302): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 2. Control for transmitting a display result designation command to the production control microcomputer 100 is performed. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to S303 (3 in this example).

  Special symbol changing process (S303): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 3. When the variation time of the variation pattern selected in the variation pattern setting process elapses (the variation time timer set in S301 times out, that is, the variation time timer value becomes 0), the design confirmation designation is made to the production control microcomputer 100. Control to transmit the command is performed, and the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (4 in this example) corresponding to S304. The effect control microcomputer 100 controls the effect display device 9 to stop the fourth symbol when receiving the symbol confirmation designation command transmitted by the game control microcomputer 560.

  Special symbol stop process (S304): Executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 4. When the big hit flag is set, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (5 in this example) corresponding to S305. If the big hit flag is not set, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (0 in this example) corresponding to S300. In this embodiment, as will be described later, a special symbol display control for stopping and displaying a special symbol stop symbol in the special symbol display control process based on the fact that the value of the special symbol process flag is 4. The data is set in the output buffer for setting the special symbol display control data, and the stop symbol of the special symbol is actually stopped and displayed according to the setting contents of the output buffer in the display control processing of S22. In this embodiment, since the special symbol variation stop time (symbol fixed stop time) is set to 0.5 seconds, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to “4” and then 0. It is preferable to update the value of the special symbol process flag to “5” or “0” after confirming that 5 seconds have passed.

  Preliminary winning opening opening process (S305): This is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 5. In the pre-opening process for the big prize opening, control for opening the big prize opening is performed. Specifically, a counter (for example, a counter that counts the number of game balls that have entered the big prize opening) is initialized, and the solenoid 21a is driven to open the big prize opening. In addition, control is performed to transmit a special prize opening opening designation command to the production control microcomputer 100, the execution time of the special prize opening opening process is set by a timer, and the internal state (special symbol process flag) is set to S306. Update to the corresponding value (6 in this example). Note that the pre-opening process for the big prize opening is executed for each round, but when starting the first round, the pre-opening process for the big winning opening is also a process for starting the big hit game. In addition, since the value specifying the round is set in the EXT data for each round and the command for opening a special prize opening is specified, a different command for opening a special prize opening is transmitted for each round. For example, when executing the first round during the big hit game, a special winning opening opening designation command (A101 (H)) for specifying round 1 is transmitted, and when executing the tenth round during the big hit game. Is a special winning opening open designation command (A10A (H)) for designating round 10.

  Large winning opening open process (S306): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 6. In the special winning opening opening process, a process for confirming the closing condition of the special winning opening is performed. If the closing condition for the special prize opening is satisfied and there are still remaining rounds, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (5 in this example) corresponding to S305. In addition, control is performed to transmit the designation command after the big hit release to the microcomputer 100 for effect control, and when all rounds are finished, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is a value corresponding to S307 (this example Then, update to 7).

  Big hit end process (S307): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 7. Control for causing the microcomputer 100 for effect control to perform display control for notifying the player that the big hit gaming state has ended is performed. Also, a process for setting a flag indicating a gaming state (for example, a high probability flag or a high base flag) is performed. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (0 in this example) corresponding to S300.

  FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing the start-port switch passing process in S312. In the start port switch passing process, the CPU 56 first checks whether or not the first start port switch 14a is in an ON state (S1211). If the first start port switch 14a is not in the ON state, the process proceeds to S1222. If the first start port switch 14a is in the ON state, the CPU 56 determines whether or not the first reserved memory number has reached the upper limit (specifically, the first reserved memory for counting the first reserved memory number). Whether the number counter value is 4 or not is confirmed (S1212). If the first reserved storage number has reached the upper limit, the process proceeds to S1222.

  If the first reserved memory number has not reached the upper limit value, the CPU 56 increases the value of the first reserved memory number counter by 1 (S1213) and sets the value of the total reserved memory number counter for counting the total reserved memory number. Increase by 1 (S1214). Further, the CPU 56 corresponds to the value of the total reserved storage number counter in the reserved storage specific information storage area (hold specific area) for storing the winning order to the first start winning opening 13a and the second start winning opening 13b. Data indicating “first” is set in the area (S1215).

  In this embodiment, when the first start opening switch 14a is turned on (that is, when a game ball starts and wins at the first start winning opening 13a), data indicating “first” is set, When the second start port switch 15a is turned on (that is, when the game ball starts and wins the second start winning port 13b), data indicating “second” is set. For example, the CPU 56 sets 01 (H) as data indicating “first” when the first start port switch 14 a is turned on in the reserved storage specifying information storage area (holding specified area). 2 When the start port switch 15a is turned on, 02 (H) is set as data indicating “second”. In this case, when there is no corresponding reserved storage, 00 (H) is set in the reserved storage specific information storage area (hold specific area).

  Next, the CPU 56 extracts values from the random number circuit 503 and a counter for generating software random numbers, and executes a process of storing them in a storage area in the first reserved storage buffer (see FIG. 11B) ( S1216). In the processing of S1216, a random R (big hit determination random number) that is a hardware random number, a big hit type determination random number (random 1), a variation pattern type determination random number (random 2), and a variation pattern determination random number (random) 3) is extracted and stored in the storage area. It should be noted that the random number for random pattern determination (random 3) is not extracted and stored in the storage area in advance in the start-port switch passing process (at the time of start winning), but is extracted at the start of the variation of the first special symbol. May be. For example, the game control microcomputer 560 may directly extract a value from a variation pattern determination random number counter for generating a variation pattern determination random number (random 3) in a variation pattern setting process described later. The jackpot type determination random number may be a hardware random number.

  Next, the CPU 56 executes a winning presentation process in which a variation display result and a variation pattern type when a variation based on the detected starting winning is executed is determined in advance at the starting winning (S1217). Then, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a symbol designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 based on the determination result of the winning effect processing (S1218), and control to transmit the variation type command to the effect control microcomputer 100. (S1219). Next, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit the first start winning designation command to the production control microcomputer 100 (S1220), sets the value of the total pending storage number counter to the EXT data, and outputs the total pending storage number designation command. Control to transmit to the production control microcomputer 100 is performed (S1221).

  By executing the processing of S1218, in this embodiment, regardless of the gaming state (whether it is a high probability state, a high base state, or a big hit gaming state), the CPU 56 Every time a start winning prize is awarded to one start winning opening 13a, a symbol designating command is always transmitted to the production control microcomputer 100.

  Further, in this embodiment, when the start winning to the first start winning opening 13a occurs by executing the processing of S1218 to S1221, the symbol designating command, the first start winning designating command, and the total pending storage A set of number specification commands is sent in one timer interrupt.

  Next, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the second start port switch 15a is on (S1222). If the second start port switch 15a is not in the ON state, the process is terminated as it is. If the second start port switch 15a is on, the CPU 56 determines whether or not the second reserved memory number has reached the upper limit (specifically, the second reserved memory for counting the second reserved memory number). Whether the number counter value is 4 or not is confirmed (S1223). If the second reserved storage number has reached the upper limit value, the processing is terminated as it is.

  If the second reserved memory number has not reached the upper limit value, the CPU 56 increases the value of the second reserved memory number counter by 1 (S1224), and sets the value of the total reserved memory number counter for counting the total reserved memory number. Increase by 1 (S1225). In addition, the CPU 56 sets data indicating “second” in an area corresponding to the value of the total reserved storage number counter in the reserved storage specific information storage area (hold specific area) (S1226).

  Next, the CPU 56 extracts values from the random number circuit 503 and a counter for generating software random numbers, and executes a process of storing them in a storage area in the second reserved storage buffer (see FIG. 11B) (see FIG. 11B). S1227). Note that in the processing of S1227, random numbers (random hit determination random numbers) that are hardware random numbers, big hit type determination random numbers (random 1), variation pattern type determination random numbers (random 2), and variation pattern determination random numbers (random) 3) is extracted and stored in the storage area. It should be noted that the random number for random pattern determination (random 3) is not extracted and stored in the storage area in advance in the start-port switch passing process (at the time of start winning), but is extracted at the start of the variation of the second special symbol. May be. For example, the game control microcomputer 560 may directly extract a value from a variation pattern determination random number counter for generating a variation pattern determination random number (random 3) in a variation pattern setting process described later.

  Next, the CPU 56 executes winning effect processing (S1228). Then, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a symbol designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 based on the determination result of the winning effect processing (S1229) and control to transmit the variation type command to the effect control microcomputer 100. (S1230). Next, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit the second start winning designation command to the production control microcomputer 100 (S1231), sets the value of the total pending storage number counter to EXT data, and outputs the total pending storage number designation command. Control to transmit to the production control microcomputer 100 is performed (S1232).

  By executing the processing of S1229, in this embodiment, regardless of the gaming state (whether it is a high probability state, a high base state, or a big hit gaming state), the CPU 56 2 Each time a start winning prize is awarded to the start winning opening 13b, a symbol designating command is always transmitted to the production control microcomputer 100.

  Further, in this embodiment, when the start winning to the second start winning opening 13b occurs by executing the processing of S1229 to S1232, the symbol specifying command, the second start winning specifying command, and the total pending storage A set of number specification commands is sent in one timer interrupt.

  FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing the winning effect processing in S1217 and S1228. In the winning presentation process, the CPU 56 first compares the jackpot determination random number (random R) extracted in S1216 and S1227 with the normal jackpot determination value shown in the left column of FIG. It is confirmed whether or not (S220). In this embodiment, at the timing of starting the variation of the special symbol and the effect symbol, whether or not to make a big hit in the special symbol normal processing and the big hit type are determined, or the variation pattern (variation pattern type) is determined in the variation pattern setting processing. In addition, the display of the variation based on the start winning is started at the timing when the game ball starts to win the first starting winning opening 13a or the second starting winning opening 13b. Before being awarded, the winning effect production process is executed to pre-read whether or not to win, and the type and variation pattern of the big win. By doing so, the variation display result is predicted in advance before the effect symbol variation display is executed, and based on the determination result at the time of winning, the effect control CPU 101 displays the big hit during the effect symbol variation display. A pre-reading notice is given to predict what will happen (possibly a big hit).

  Note that the pre-reading notice may be executed for both the variable display of the first special symbol and the variable display of the second special symbol. In the low base state, the pre-reading notice may be executed only for the first special symbol. In the high base state, the pre-reading notice may be executed only for the second special symbol.

  If the big hit determination random number (random R) does not match the normal big hit determination value (N in S220), the CPU 56 is set with a probability change flag indicating that the gaming state is a probability change state (high probability state). It is confirmed whether or not (S221). If the probability change flag is set, the CPU 56 compares the jackpot determination random number (random R) extracted in S1216 and S1227 with the jackpot determination value at the time of probability change shown in the right column of FIG. It is confirmed whether or not they match (S222).

  If the jackpot determination random number (random R) does not match the jackpot determination value at the time of probability change (N in S222), the CPU 56 performs a process of setting the EXT data indicating “displacement” in the symbol designation command ( S223). As a result, a symbol designating command indicating “displacement” is output at the time of starting winning.

  When the jackpot determination random number (random R) matches the jackpot determination value in S220 or S222, the CPU 56 determines the jackpot type based on the jackpot type determination random number (random 1) extracted in S1216 and S1227. (S224). In this case, when there is a start winning at the first start winning opening 13a (when the winning effect processing at S1217 is executed), the CPU 56 determines the jackpot type determination table (first special) shown in FIG. It is determined whether the big hit type is “ordinary big hit” or “probable big hit”. When there is a start winning at the second start winning opening 13b (when the winning effect processing at S1228 is executed), the big hit type determination table (for the second special symbol) shown in FIG. 8C is used. It is used to determine whether the big hit type is “normal big hit” or “probable big hit”.

  Next, the CPU 56 performs processing for setting the EXT data corresponding to the determination result of the jackpot type in the symbol designation command (S225). For example, when it is determined that “normal big hit” is obtained, the CPU 56 performs processing for setting EXT data indicating that “normal big hit” is set in the symbol designation command. Further, when it is determined that “probability big hit” is obtained, the CPU 56 performs processing for setting EXT data indicating “probability big hit” in the symbol designation command. As a result, when a big win is reached, a symbol designation command indicating that “normal big hit” or “probability big hit” is output at the time of starting winning.

  Next, the CPU 56 uses the variation pattern type determination random number (random 2) extracted in S1216 and S1227 to determine each display result set in S223 and S225 and the variation pattern according to the gaming state ( S226). For example, in this embodiment, since the table used for determining the variation pattern type differs depending on whether or not it is a big hit and whether or not it is in the time saving state, in S226, the variation pattern is determined. When the variable display based on the hold storage data is executed based on the data indicating the game state such as the time reduction flag (the flag set when the time reduction control is performed) for the target hold storage data Recognize the gaming state, select the table used for determining the variation pattern based on the display result of the variation display based on the reserved storage data, and use the variation pattern type determination random number (random 2) for variation pattern Determine.

  Then, the CPU 56 performs processing for setting the EXT data corresponding to the determination result to the variation type command (S227). Thereby, at the time of starting winning, a variation type command indicating the variation type is output.

  In addition, there is a possibility that a plurality of variation displays may be executed after confirming whether or not the state is surely changed in S221 at the time of the start winning, until the start of the variation display based on the start winning actually. There is. For this reason, the gaming state has changed from the confirmation of whether or not it is in the probable variation state in S221 until the actual display of the variation based on the start winning is actually started (for example, the gaming state depends on the number of variations). In the case of a change, the game state may change from the probability change state to the normal state until the number of changes is up to 100 and after 100. Therefore, the gaming state determined in S222 at the time of starting winning and the gaming state determined at the start of variation do not always match. In order to prevent such a discrepancy, a game with a change in the game state in the currently stored hold memory may be specified, and the determination at the time of starting winning may be performed based on the changed game state. . In addition, the game state when the variation display based on the hold storage data is executed based on the data indicating the game state such as the probability variation counter and the time reduction counter for the hold storage data to be determined as the big hit Is recognized, the table used for determining the variation pattern is selected based on the display result of the variation display based on the reserved storage data, and the jackpot determination is performed using the jackpot type determination random number (random R). You may do it.

  Moreover, you may confirm whether it is a time-short state at the time of a start winning prize. In such a case, the variable display may be executed a plurality of times until the variable display based on the start winning is actually started. Therefore, the game state has changed after confirming whether it is in the short-time state or not until the display of fluctuation based on the start winning is actually started (for example, when the game state changes depending on the number of fluctuations). In addition, there are cases where the gaming state changes from the short-time state to the normal state up to 100 times and after 100 times.) Therefore, the gaming state determined at the time of starting winning is not always the same as the gaming state determined at the start of variation. In order to prevent such a discrepancy, a game with a change in the game state in the currently stored hold memory may be specified, and the determination at the time of starting winning may be performed based on the changed game state. . In addition, with respect to the on-hold storage data to be subjected to the determination of the variation pattern, based on the data indicating the game state, such as a time-count counter, the gaming state when the variation display based on the on-hold storage data is executed, Based on the display result of the variation display based on the reserved storage data, the table used for determining the variation pattern is selected, and the variation pattern type is determined using the variation pattern type determination random number (random 2). May be.

  FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing the special symbol normal process (S300) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol normal process, the CPU 56 checks whether there is pending storage data in the first pending storage buffer or the second pending storage buffer (S51). If there is no pending storage data in either the first pending storage buffer or the second pending storage buffer, the process ends.

  When there is pending storage data in the first pending storage buffer or the second pending storage buffer, the CPU 56 determines that the first data among the data set in the pending specific area (see FIG. 11A) is “first”. It is confirmed whether or not the data indicates (S52). When the first data set in the reserved specific area is not data indicating “first” (that is, data indicating “second”) (N in S52), the CPU 56 determines that the special symbol pointer (first Data indicating “second” is set in a flag indicating whether the special symbol process is being performed for the special symbol or the special symbol process is being performed for the second special symbol (S53). When the first data set in the reserved specific area is data indicating “first” (Y in S52), the CPU 103 sets data indicating “first” in the special symbol pointer (S54).

  In this embodiment, hereinafter, the first special symbol on the first special symbol display 8a depends on whether the data indicating "first" or the data indicating "second" is set in the special symbol pointer. And the variable display of the second special symbol on the second special symbol display 8b are executed using a common processing routine. When the data indicating “first” is set in the special symbol pointer, the first special symbol display unit 8a performs the variable display of the first special symbol based on the reserved memory data stored in the first reserved memory buffer. It is. On the other hand, when the data indicating “second” is set in the special symbol pointer, the variable display of the second special symbol on the second special symbol display unit 8b based on the reserved memory data stored in the second reserved memory buffer. Is done.

  By executing the processing of S52 to S54, in this embodiment, the variation display of the first special symbol is performed in accordance with the start winning order in which the game balls have won the first start winning opening 13a and the second starting winning opening 13b. Alternatively, the variable display of the second special symbol is executed.

  Next, the CPU 56 reads out each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the number of reserved memories = 1 indicated by the special symbol pointer in the RAM 55 and stores it in the reserved memory buffer of the RAM 55 (S55). Specifically, when the special symbol pointer indicates “first”, the CPU 56 determines each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the first reserved memory number = 1 in the first reserved memory buffer. Are stored in the reserved storage buffer of the RAM 55. Further, when the special symbol pointer indicates “second”, the CPU 56 reads each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the second reserved memory number = 1 in the second reserved memory buffer. Stored in the reserved storage buffer of the RAM 55.

  Then, the CPU 56 decrements the count value of the reserved storage number counter indicated by the special symbol pointer, and shifts the contents of each storage area (S56). Specifically, when the special symbol pointer indicates “first”, the CPU 56 decrements the count value of the first reserved memory number counter by 1 and stores each storage area in the first reserved memory buffer. Shift content. When the special symbol pointer indicates “second”, the count value of the second reserved memory number counter is decremented by 1, and the contents of each storage area in the second reserved memory buffer are shifted.

  That is, when the special symbol pointer indicates “first”, the CPU 56 stores the first reserved memory number = n (n = 2, 3, 4) in the first reserved memory buffer of the RAM 55. Each stored random number value is stored in a storage area corresponding to the first reserved storage number = n−1. Further, when the special symbol pointer indicates “second”, each stored in the storage area corresponding to the second reserved memory number = n (n = 2, 3, 4) in the second reserved memory buffer of the RAM 55. The random value is stored in the storage area corresponding to the second reserved memory number = n−1. In addition, the CPU 56 adds the values (values indicating “first” or “second”) stored in the storage area corresponding to the total reserved storage number = m (m = 2 to 8) in the reserved specific area. Store in the storage area corresponding to the number of reserved storage = m−1. Therefore, the order in which each random value stored in each storage area corresponding to each first reserved memory number (or each second reserved memory number) is extracted is always the first reserved memory number (or (Second reserved storage number) = 1, 2, 3, 4 in order. In addition, the order in which the values stored in the respective storage areas corresponding to the total number of pending storages are extracted always matches the order of the total number of pending storages = 1-8.

  One is subtracted from the count value of the total pending memory number counter formed in the RAM 55 and counting the total pending memory number (S57). The CPU 56 stores the value of the total pending storage number counter before the count value is decremented by 1 in a predetermined area of the RAM 55.

  In the special symbol normal process, first, data indicating “first” indicating that the process is executed with respect to the first start winning opening 13a, that is, “first” indicating that the process is executed with respect to the first special symbol. ”Or“ second ”indicating that the process is performed on the second special symbol, that is,“ second ”indicating that the process is performed on the second start winning opening 13b. Data is set in the special symbol pointer. In the subsequent processing in the special symbol process, processing corresponding to the data set in the special symbol pointer is executed. Therefore, the process of S300-S307 can be made common by the case where the 1st special symbol is made object and the case where the 2nd special symbol is made object.

  Next, the CPU 56 reads a random R (a jackpot determination random number) from the holding storage buffer, and executes a jackpot determination module (S61). In this case, the CPU 56 reads out the jackpot determination random number extracted in S1216 of the start port switch passing process or S1227 of the start port switch passing process and previously stored in the first hold memory buffer or the second hold memory buffer, and determines the big hit To do. The jackpot determination module is a program that compares a jackpot determination value (see FIG. 8) determined in advance with a jackpot determination random number, and executes a process of determining a jackpot if they match. In other words, this is a program for executing the big hit determination process.

  The jackpot determination process is configured such that when the gaming state is in a probable change state (high probability state), the probability of winning a big hit is higher than in the case where the gaming state is a non-probability change state (normal game state). Specifically, a jackpot determination table at the time of probability change in which a large number of jackpot determination values are set in advance (a table in which the values on the right side of FIG. 8A in the ROM 54 are set) and the number of jackpot determination values are variable. A normal big hit determination table (a table in which the numerical values on the left side of FIG. 8A in the ROM 54 are set) set smaller than the hour big hit determination table is provided. Then, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the gaming state is a probability variation state. If the gaming state is a probability variation state, the CPU 56 performs a jackpot determination process using the probability variation jackpot determination table, and the gaming state is a normal game. When the state is short or short, the big hit determination process is performed using the normal big hit determination table. That is, when the value of the big hit determination random number (random R) matches one of the big hit determination values shown in FIG. 8A, the CPU 56 determines that the special symbol is a big hit. If it is determined to be a big hit (Y in S61), the process proceeds to S71. Note that deciding whether to win or not is to decide whether or not to shift to the big hit gaming state, but to decide whether or not to stop the special symbol display as a big hit symbol. But there is.

  Note that whether or not the current gaming state is the probability variation state is determined by whether or not the probability variation flag is set. The probability variation flag is set when the gaming state is shifted to the probability variation state, and is reset when the probability variation state is terminated. Specifically, the probability variation flag is set in the jackpot end process (S307 in FIG. 14) when the probability variation jackpot is reached, and then the condition that the next jackpot has been determined, or the variation display that results in an outlier display result. When the condition that the predetermined number of times (for example, 100 times) has been executed is satisfied, the variation display of the special symbol is terminated and the stop symbol is reset at the timing to stop display.

  If the value of the jackpot determination random number (random R) does not match any of the jackpot determination values (N in S61), the process proceeds to S75 described later.

  If the value of the jackpot determination random number (random R) matches any one of the jackpot determination values in S61, the CPU 56 sets a jackpot flag indicating that it is a jackpot (S71). The jackpot flag is reset when the jackpot game ends. Then, as tables used to determine the jackpot type as one of a plurality of types, the first special symbol jackpot type determination table in FIG. 8B and the second special symbol jackpot type in FIG. 8C. One of the determination tables is selected (S72). Specifically, when the special symbol pointer indicates “first”, the CPU 56 selects the first special symbol jackpot type determination table shown in FIG. In addition, when the special symbol pointer indicates “second”, the CPU 56 selects the second special symbol jackpot type determination table of FIG.

  Next, the CPU 56 reads the big hit type determination random number extracted in the start switch passing processing and stored in advance in the first hold storage buffer or the second hold storage buffer, and uses the big hit type determination table selected in S72 to hold the The jackpot type and jackpot symbol corresponding to the value matching the random number (random 1) for jackpot type determination stored in the buffer is determined (S73).

  As shown in FIGS. 8B and 8C, for the first special symbol and the second special symbol, the relationship between the jackpot type and the jackpot symbol is set so that the jackpot symbol is different for each jackpot type, Since the big hit type and the big hit symbol are determined at the same time, the correspondence between the big hit symbol and the game control corresponding to the big hit type is simplified, so that the game control can be prevented from becoming complicated.

  Further, the CPU 56 sets the jackpot type data indicating the determined jackpot type in the jackpot type buffer in the RAM 55 (S74). For example, when the jackpot type is “normal jackpot”, “01” is set as the jackpot type data. When the big hit type is “probable big hit”, “02” is set as the big hit type data.

  Next, the CPU 56 sets a special symbol stop symbol (S75). Specifically, when the big hit flag is not set, “−”, which is a lost symbol, is set as a special symbol stop symbol. If the jackpot flag is set, the jackpot symbol determined in S73 is set as a special symbol stop symbol according to the determination result of the jackpot type. That is, when the jackpot type is determined to be “probable variation jackpot”, “7” is set as a special symbol stop symbol. When the jackpot type is determined as “normal jackpot”, “3” is determined as a special symbol stop symbol.

  Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the variation pattern setting process (S301) (S76).

  Next, the operation of the production control microcomputer 100 will be described. FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing the effect control main process executed by the effect control microcomputer 100 (specifically, the effect control CPU 101) mounted on the effect control board 80.

  The effect control CPU 101 starts executing the effect control main process when the power is turned on. In the effect control main process, first, an initialization process is performed for clearing the RAM area, setting various initial values, and initializing a timer for determining the activation control activation interval (for example, 2 ms) (S701). ). Thereafter, the effect control CPU 101 proceeds to a loop process for monitoring a timer interrupt flag (S702). When a timer interrupt occurs, the effect control CPU 101 sets a timer interrupt flag in the timer interrupt process. In the effect control main process, if the timer interrupt flag is set, the effect control CPU 101 clears the flag (S703) and executes the following effect control process.

  In the effect control process, the effect control CPU 101 first analyzes the received effect control command, and sets data such as a flag that can specify what the received effect control command indicates. Processing (for example, processing for storing data that can identify received commands in various command storage areas provided in the RAM, etc.) is performed (command analysis processing: S704). The effect control command transmitted from the game control microcomputer 560 is received by an interrupt process based on the effect control INT signal, and is stored in a buffer area formed in the RAM. In the command analysis process, which command is the effect control command stored in the buffer area is analyzed. Next, the effect control CPU 101 performs effect control process processing (S705). In the effect control process, in order to perform various effects such as a change display of the effect symbol on the effect display device 9 in accordance with the contents of the effect control command analyzed in S704, the current control among the processes corresponding to the control state is performed. A process corresponding to the state (effect control process flag) is selected and the effect control is executed.

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 performs the fourth symbol process (step S705A). In the 4th symbol process, a process corresponding to the current control state (4th symbol process flag) is selected from the processes corresponding to the control state, and the 4th symbol display areas 9a, 9b, At 9c and 9d, display control of the fourth symbol is executed.

  Next, random numbers (SR1-1 for determining the left stop symbol of the effect symbol, SR1-2 for determining the middle stop symbol of the effect symbol, SR1-3 for determining the right stop symbol of the effect symbol used by the microcomputer 100 for effect control) Then, random number update processing for updating the count value of the counter for generating SR2 for determining the type of notice and various random numbers including SR3 for determining the specific sound is executed (S706). Each of such random numbers SR1-1 to SR3 is generated by counting of a random counter that updates the count value by software, and is cyclically updated within a predetermined range for each, and determined for each. It is used as a random number by being extracted at the same timing.

  Further, a hold storage display control process for controlling the display state of the first sum hold storage display unit 18c is executed (S707). Specifically, when the first to fifth hold displays of the combined hold storage display unit 18c are lit and displayed, when the combined hold storage number subtraction designation command is received, the first hold display Is deleted, the second hold display is shifted to the first display area, the third hold display is shifted to the second display area, and the fourth display The on-hold display displayed on the screen is shifted to the third display area, and the on-hold display displayed on the fifth is shifted to the fourth display area.

  By executing such effect control main processing, the effect control microcomputer 100 transmits the effect display device 9, various lamps, and the like according to the effect control command transmitted from the game control microcomputer 560 and received. By controlling the production devices such as the speakers 27L and 27R, various production controls according to the gaming state are performed.

  FIG. 19 is a diagram showing random numbers used in the effect control board. SR1-1 to SR1-3 are stopped and displayed in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” symbol display areas in the display area of the effect display device 9 as stop symbols, which are the results of variable display of the effect symbols. It is a random number used to determine the production symbol (final stop symbol). The final stop symbols are three effect symbols that are finally stopped and displayed in each of the “left”, “middle”, and “right” symbol display areas at the time when the variation display of the effect symbols ends. The combination of the jackpot symbols of the effect symbols is determined by any one random number among SR1-1 to SR1-3.

  As shown in the notice determination table in FIG. 23, which will be described later, the notice type determination random number SR2 is used to determine which of the following notice types is a button notice, a step-up notice, or no notice. The random number to use. Further, the specific sound notice determination random number SR3 is a random number used to determine whether or not the specific sound notice is executed, as shown in a specific sound notice determination table in FIG.

  Each of SR1-1 to SR3 is repeatedly added and updated within the counting range shown in the figure at a predetermined timing in the random number updating process of S706. For example, SR1-1 is updated every 33 msec, SR1-2 is updated every carry of SR1-1, and SR1-3 is added and updated every carry of SR1-2. Then, it is updated again from 0.

  FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing the effect control process (S705) in the main process shown in FIG.

  The effect control CPU 101 performs any one of S800 to S807 according to the value of the effect control process flag. In each process, the following process is executed. In the effect control process, the display state of the effect display device 9 is controlled, and the effect symbol variation display is realized, but the control related to the effect symbol variation display synchronized with the variation of the first special symbol is also the second. Control related to the change display of the effect symbol synchronized with the change of the special symbol is also executed in one effect control process. It should be noted that the effect symbol variation display synchronized with the first special symbol variation and the effect symbol variation display synchronized with the second special symbol variation may be executed by separate effect control process processing. Good. Further, in this case, it may be determined which special symbol variation display is being executed depending on which representation control process processing is performing the variation display of the representation symbol.

  Fluctuation pattern command reception waiting process (S800): It is confirmed whether or not a variation pattern command is received from the game control microcomputer 560. Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not the variation pattern command reception flag set in the command analysis process is set. If the variation pattern command has been received, the value of the effect control process flag is changed to a value corresponding to the effect symbol variation start process (S801).

  Effect symbol variation start processing (S801): Control is performed so that the variation of the effect symbol is started. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the effect symbol changing process (S802).

  Production symbol variation processing (S802): Controls the switching timing of each variation state (variation speed) constituting the variation pattern and monitors the end of the variation time. Then, when the variation time ends, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the effect symbol variation stop process (S803).

  Effect symbol variation stop processing (S803): Control is performed to stop the variation of the effect symbol and derive and display the display result (stop symbol). Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the jackpot display process (S804) or the variation pattern command reception waiting process (S800).

  Big hit display process (S804): After the end of the variation time, control is performed to display a screen for notifying the effect display device 9 of the occurrence of the big hit. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the in-round processing (S805).

  In-round processing (S805): Display control during round is performed. If the round end condition is satisfied, if the final round has not ended, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the post-round processing (S806). If the final round has ended, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the big hit end process (S807).

  Post-round processing (S806): Display control between rounds is performed. If the round start condition is satisfied, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the in-round processing (S805).

  Big hit end effect processing (S807): In the effect display device 9, display control is performed to notify the player that the big hit game state has ended. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the variation pattern command reception waiting process (S800).

  FIG. 21 is a timing chart showing the relationship between the notice effect and the volume. In FIG. 21, the horizontal axis represents time, and the vertical axis represents the volume of the effect sound. FIG. 21 shows the relationship between the notice effect and the volume in one variation display. In the present embodiment, button notice and specific sound notice are executed as notice effects. The notice effect is an effect of notifying the possibility that the display result of the variable display becomes the jackpot display result (the expectation degree of jackpot) before the display result is derived. Further, the button notice is a notice effect that displays an effect image displayed as a result of the button notice and outputs a first effect sound as a notice sound on condition that the operation button 120 is operated during the variable display. Say. Further, the specific sound notice means a notice effect to be executed by outputting from the speaker 27 a specific sound that is difficult for the player to hear.

  In addition, the notice effect may be other than the notice of the jackpot expectation, may be noticed in advance that it will be a super reach, or may be noticed in advance that the pre-read notice effect will be executed. It is only necessary to give a notice that it will be advantageous to the user. In addition, the notice effect may be an effect for notifying a disadvantage to the player, and the notice effect is a notice that a predetermined implementation event will occur regardless of being advantageous or disadvantageous to the player. It may be an effect.

  As shown in FIG. 21, after the button notice is executed, the specific sound notice is executed after a time lag of several seconds with respect to the execution timing. As will be described later, in the present embodiment, when the player does not operate the operation button 120 in the button notice, the specific sound notice is not executed. However, even when the operation button 120 is not operated in the button notice, the specific sound notice may be executed after that.

  When the button notice is executed, the first effect sound accompanying the button notice is output from the speaker 27. Further, when the specific sound notice is executed, a second effect sound accompanying the specific sound notice is output from the speaker 27. These first effect sound and second effect sound are output from the same channel among the sound channels shown in FIG. In addition to these effect sounds, BGM (background music) as the third effect sound is output from a channel different from the channel used to output the first effect sound and the second effect sound. As the effect sound, not only the first to third effect sounds but also a plurality of kinds of effect sounds may be output at the same time. In such a case, it is conceivable that all sound channels are used. However, in this embodiment, a specific sound with a high expectation level of jackpot is output from the same channel as the button notice, so Channel can be secured.

  As shown in FIG. 21, the relationship between the volume of the first effect sound, the second effect sound, and the third effect sound is such that when the first effect sound and the third effect sound are output at the standard level, the second effect sound is output. Sound is output at a specific level. Here, the second effect sound that is the specific sound will be described. The second effect sound is a sound that is difficult for the player to hear, for example, a sound with a very low volume relative to other effect sounds (for example, a minimum value of a sound volume with other effect sounds (a low-level sound volume that is not 0) ).

  Sounds that are difficult to hear may include not only such a low volume but also sounds close to the human audible limit. A person can usually feel the eardrum vibration from about 20 Hz at the bottom to about 15000 Hz to about 20000 Hz as the sound. A sound close to the limit of the audible range may be used as the second effect sound.

  When the second effect sound is executed in the specific sound notice, the volume of the third effect sound, which is the BGM effect sound, is controlled to be lowered to a low level (the output from the channel is controlled to be reduced). ) In other words, when the second effect sound is output, the third effect sound that is easier to hear than the second effect sound is output. The specific sound (second effect sound) is output at a sound volume having a specific level smaller than the low level, which is the minimum sound volume of BGM (third effect sound). Also, the volume of the specific sound is controlled so as not to be changed while maintaining the volume of the specific level, unlike the volume of the BGM. Therefore, the specific sound can be heard by reducing the volume of the BGM when the specific sound is output.

  Here, a method for the player to change the volume will be specifically described. For example, the player can display the volume setting change screen by operating the operation button 120 while the demonstration screen is displayed. Here, the demonstration display is a demonstration display when the demonstration effect is executed in the customer waiting state in the pachinko gaming machine 1 or the like. Then, when the volume setting change screen is displayed, the player holds the operation button (lever) provided below the operation button 120 of the pachinko gaming machine 1 and tilts the operation lever (lever) that can be tilted. Set the volume. When such an operation is performed, the volume level set in the volume 706 changes. When the volume level of the volume 706 is set low by the player, the volume of other sounds is lowered to a low level, but the volume of the specific sound notice is not changed. In addition, it is preferable that the minimum value of the volume of another sound is larger than the volume of a specific sound notice. In this way, it is possible to suppress the volume of the specific sound notice from becoming too small or louder than other sounds. This lever is used not only for setting the volume but also for executing various effects relating to the game.

  When the specific sound notice is executed, the volume of other sounds that are output at the same time, such as the third effect sound, is reduced, so that the second effect sound output in the specific sound notice is not heard at all. There is no. Note that the sound that is output at the same time as the second effect sound that is output in the specific sound notice is not only the third effect sound, but also a plurality of other types of sounds (for example, other notice sounds) are output at the same time. All of a plurality of types of sounds other than the specific sound output at the same time as the specific sound may be lowered. Moreover, you may make it a part of multiple types of sound fall. Thus, you may make it fall at least when a 2nd effect sound is output among the other sounds output with a 2nd effect sound.

  When the volume level of the volume 706 is set low by the player, only the minimum sounds of some of the other sounds are louder than the sound of the specific sound notice, and the other minimum sounds are the specific sound. It may be smaller than the sound of the notice. Further, the volume of the specific sound notice itself may be adjusted by the volume 706.

  FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing the effect symbol variation start process (S801) in the effect control process. In the effect symbol variation start process, the effect control CPU 101 performs the following process.

  In the effect symbol variation start process, it is confirmed whether or not the variation display result is determined to be off (S601). Whether or not it is determined to be out of place is determined by, for example, displaying the display result 1 specifying command in the display result specifying command storage area formed in the reception command buffer provided in the RAM of the production control microcomputer 100. It is determined by whether or not it exists. If it is determined to be off, it is confirmed whether a command corresponding to the non-reach fluctuation pattern is received as the fluctuation pattern command (S602). Whether or not a command corresponding to the non-reach fluctuation pattern has been received is determined by, for example, data stored in a fluctuation pattern command storage area formed in a reception command buffer provided in the RAM of the production control microcomputer 100. Is done.

  If it is determined that a command corresponding to the non-reach variation pattern has been received, the display result that does not reach (missing) is determined as the final stop symbol of the production symbol using the loss symbol determination data table stored in the ROM 102. (S604), the process proceeds to S616. In the loss symbol determination data table, the numerical data of SR1-1 to SR1-3 are associated with each of a plurality of types of effect symbols.

  In the processing of S604, numerical data (random numbers) is extracted from each of SR1-1 to SR1-3 at a predetermined timing, and the symbols corresponding to the extracted numerical data are respectively left and center using the outlier design determination data table. , It is determined as a combination of stop symbols resulting in a variation display result of the right effect symbol. In this way, when determining a combination of non-reach symbols, if the stop symbol corresponding to the extracted random number coincides with a combination of accidental jackpot symbols, it is corrected so as to be a combination of outlier symbols (for example, Each stop symbol is determined by correcting the right symbol by one symbol). In addition, when the stop symbol corresponding to the extracted random number is accidentally reached, it is corrected so that it becomes a combination of non-reach off symbols (for example, correction by shifting the right symbol by one symbol) and each stop symbol. Is determined.

  If it is determined in the process of S602 that the pattern is not a non-reach variation pattern (if it is determined that the pattern is a reach variation pattern), a stop symbol of the effect symbols constituting the combination of reach symbols is determined (S605), and the process proceeds to S616. In the process of S605, numerical data (random numbers) is extracted from each of SR1-1 to SR1-3 at a predetermined timing, and the symbol corresponding to the random number extracted from SR1-1 is extracted using the loss symbol determination data table. A symbol corresponding to a random number that matches the counter value extracted from SR1-2 is determined as a stop symbol of the middle symbol, which is determined as a stop symbol of each of the left and right effect symbols forming the reach state. In this case as well, when the symbol combination is accidentally a combination of symbols, the stop symbols are determined by correcting the symbols so that they become a combination of symbols that are out of place (for example, correction for shifting the middle symbol by one symbol).

  In addition, when it is not determined to be a shift in the processing of S601 (when it is determined to be a big hit), the effect control CPU 101 produces an effect that configures a combination of the big hit symbols according to the type of the big hit. A stop symbol of the symbol is determined (S603), and the process proceeds to S616.

  In S603, the winning symbol combination is determined according to the type of jackpot as follows. Based on which display result designation command of the display result 2 designation command and the display result 3 designation command is stored in the display result specifying command storage area, the type of jackpot between the probability big hit and the normal big hit When it is determined that it is determined to be a probability variation jackpot, numerical data (random number) is extracted from SR1-1 at a predetermined timing, and a combination of SR1-1 and probability variation jackpot symbol (for example, left, Use the data table (probability variable big hit symbol determination table) in which the relationship between the middle and right is an odd combination of odd numbers such as “7, 7, 7”, etc. The combination of is selected and determined. Also, when it is determined that it is determined to be a normal jackpot, numerical data (random numbers) is extracted from SR1-1 at a predetermined timing, and a combination of SR1-1 and a normal jackpot symbol (for example, left, middle, Using the data table (ordinary jackpot symbol determination table) in which the relationship with the right is a combination of even numbers such as “4,4,4” etc.), the combination of one of the normal jackpot symbols from the extracted value Select and decide. The symbol determined in this way is used as a final stop symbol which is a variation display result before being controlled to the big hit gaming state.

  Next, after performing an effect setting process (S616) for performing a process for setting various effects in the variable display (for example, a process of determining a notice effect, etc.), the process proceeds to S617. The processing content of the effect setting process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  In S617, the effect control pattern is determined as one of a plurality of types of effect control patterns. In S617, the symbol variation control pattern table is determined according to the variation pattern designated by the variation pattern designation command and the various effect control (effect operation) patterns designated by the effect control pattern of the effect determined in the process of S616. One of the effect control patterns corresponding to the designated various effect operation patterns is selected and determined as the use pattern from among the plurality of types of symbol variation control patterns stored in the.

  In the control pattern table stored in the ROM 102, for example, the effect in the display area of the effect display device 9 in the period from when the change of the effect symbol is started until the final effect symbol that is the final stop symbol is stopped and displayed. A plurality of types of data indicating the control contents of various effect operations such as the effect change display operation of the symbol, the effect display operation in the reach effect, and the effect display operation in the effect display operation in the notice effect are stored as the symbol change control pattern.

  In addition, each symbol variation control pattern is, for example, an effect symbol variation display such as an effect control process timer setting value, an effect control process timer determination value, an effect display control data, voice control data, lamp control data, and an end code. The control data for controlling the various types of performance operations is included, and the contents of the various types of performance control, the timing of switching the performance control, and the like are set in time series.

  Subsequently, the process table according to the production | presentation control pattern selected by S617 is selected (S618). Then, a process timer (effect setting process timer) in the process data 1 of the selected process table is started (S619).

  When the process of S619 is executed, according to the contents of the process data 1 (display control execution data 1, lamp control execution data 1, sound number data 1), the effect device (the effect display device 9 as the effect component, the effect component as the effect component) Control of the various lamps and the speaker 27) as a production component is started (S620). For example, in accordance with the display control execution data, an instruction is output to the VDP 109 in order to display an image (including an effect symbol) corresponding to the variation pattern on the effect display device 9. Further, a control signal (lamp control execution data) is output to the lamp driver board 35 in order to perform lighting / extinguishing control of the light emitters such as various LEDs. In addition, a control signal (sound number data) is output to the sound output board 70 in order to output sound from the speaker 27.

  Then, a value corresponding to the variation time specified by the variation pattern command is set in the variation time timer (S621), and the value of the effect control process flag is set to a value corresponding to the effect symbol changing process (S802). A variation start process is executed (S622). Then, the effect symbol variation start process ends.

  FIG. 23 is an explanatory diagram showing a notice determination table and a specific sound notice determination table. The notice determination table and the specific sound notice determination table are stored in the ROM of the production control microcomputer 100, and are used to determine the type of notice and the presence / absence of the specific sound notice, respectively. In the notice determination tables shown in FIGS. 23 (a) and 23 (b), random numbers SR2 for determining the notice type (range of 1 to 100) are different at different rates depending on whether the display result is a big hit or not. 100 values are allocated. For SR2, the number of random values assigned for clarity is shown.

  The effect control CPU 101 extracts the value of SR2 at a predetermined timing, and based on whether the extracted value belongs to “button notice”, “step-up notice”, or “no notice” in the notice determination table. The type of notice is determined to be “button notice”, “step-up notice”, or “no notice”. Note that the step-up notice means a notice effect in which a notice effect is given by stepping up the notice effect by a plurality of notice steps. A plurality of notice effects may be provided in addition to these notice effects.

  In the jackpot notice determination table shown in FIG. 23 (a), which is used when the jackpot is decided, out of a total of 100 SR2 values, 50 random numbers are assigned in the case of “button notice”. For example, 40 random numbers are assigned when “notice”, and 10 random values are assigned when “not notice”. The random value SR2 is extracted at a predetermined timing. When the display result is a big hit, it is easy to select in the relationship of “no notice” <“step-up notice” <“button notice”. In the detachment notice determination table of FIG. 23 (b) used at the time of deciding the detachment, 20 random numbers are assigned when “button notice” is set out of the total of 100 SR2 values. 30 random numbers are assigned when “notice”, and 50 random values are assigned when “not notice”. The random value SR2 is extracted at a predetermined timing. When the display result is out of order, it is easy to select “button notice” <“step-up notice” <“no notice”.

  In the specific sound advance notice determination tables shown in FIGS. 23C and 23D, the random number SR3 (the range of 1 to 90) for determining the advance notice type is different at different rates depending on whether the display result is a big hit or not. ) Value is assigned. For SR3, the number of random values assigned for clarity is shown.

  The effect control CPU 101 extracts the value of SR3 at a predetermined timing, and in the specific sound notice determination table, whether the extracted value belongs to “specific sound notice execution is performed” or “specific sound notice execution is not performed”. Based on this, it is determined whether to “execute specific sound advance notice” or “do not execute specific sound advance notice”.

  In the jackpot specific sound notice determination table shown in FIG. 23C used when the jackpot is determined, 80 random numbers among the total 80 SR3 values are assigned when “specific sound notice is executed”. 10 random numbers are assigned when “No specific sound notice is executed”. The random value SR3 is extracted at a predetermined timing. If the display result is a big hit, “specific sound notice execution present” is selected at a high rate. In the specific sound advance notice determination table for deviation used in FIG. 23 (d) used at the time of determination of the out of place, 10 random numbers are assigned when “specific sound advance notice is present” out of the total of 80 SR3 values. In the case of “No specific sound notice execution”, 80 random numbers are assigned. The random value SR3 is extracted at a predetermined timing. If the display result is out of order, “No specific sound notice execution” is selected at a high rate.

  FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing the effect setting process. In the effect setting process, the effect control CPU 101 determines whether or not the change to be executed this time is a jackpot change based on whether or not a command that is a jackpot display result is stored in the received command buffer. (S651).

  If the variable display that is the jackpot display result is executed this time, the value of SR2 is extracted, and based on the extracted value, the jackpot notice determination table of FIG. The type is determined (S652). Next, the effect control CPU 101 determines whether or not it is determined to execute the button notice in S652 (S653). When it is determined not to execute the button advance notice, that is, when it is determined that the step-up notice effect is determined or no notice is given, the process proceeds to S657. If it is determined to execute the button notice in S653, the value of SR3 is extracted, and based on the extracted value, the specific sound notice is determined using the big hit specific sound notice determination table of FIG. Is determined whether or not to execute (S654).

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 determines in S654 (S660 to be described later) whether or not it is determined to execute the specific sound notice (S655). When the specific sound notice is not executed, the process proceeds to S657. When executing the specific sound notice, it is determined to lower the BGM volume at the time of executing the specific sound notice to a low level that is higher than the specific level at which the specific sound is output and lower than the standard level (S656). Next, the effect control CPU 101 sets to execute the notice according to the determined effect content (S657).

  In step S651, the effect control CPU 101 extracts the SR2 value when it is not the jackpot display result that is executed this time, that is, when the display is out of variation, and the result is shown in FIG. 23 (b). The type of notice is determined using the notice determination table (S658). Next, the effect control CPU 101 determines whether or not it is determined to execute the button notice in S658 (S659). When it is determined not to execute the button advance notice, that is, when it is determined that the step-up notice effect is determined or no notice is given, the process proceeds to S657. If it is determined in S659 that button notification is to be executed, the value of SR3 is extracted, and based on the extracted value, the specific sound notification is determined using the specific sound notification determination table for deviation shown in FIG. Is determined (S660). Next, the effect control CPU 101 executes the processes of S655 to S657 as in the case of the big hit display result.

  Note that the notice determination table for determining the kind of notice is different based on whether or not the big hit fluctuation display result is obtained in S651, but based on whether or not the fluctuation executed this time is a super reach. The notice determination table may be different.

  FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing the processing during effect design variation (S802). In the effect symbol variation processing, the effect control CPU 101 subtracts 1 from the value of the process timer (S841) and subtracts 1 from the value of the variation display time timer (S842). Then, it is determined whether or not the process timer has timed out (S843).

  Until the process timer times out (S843N), the process proceeds to S846. If it is determined in S843 that the process timer has timed out (S843Y), the process data is switched (S844). That is, the process timer is started again by setting the process timer set value set next in the process table in the process timer (S844). In addition, the next process data such as changing the control state for the rendering device (production component) based on process data such as display control execution data, lamp control execution data, and sound number data set next. The rendering device is controlled according to the contents of (S845).

  Next, an operation effect process for performing an operation effect is performed according to the operation of the operation button 120 (S846). Here, the operation effect will be described. The operation effect is an effect related to the effect mode by operating the operation means such as the operation button 120. In the present embodiment, a button image as an operation promotion image that prompts the operation of the operation button 120 is displayed as an operation effect, and a button notice that outputs the first effect sound when the operation button 120 is operated by the player is executed. Is done. Furthermore, on the condition that the operation button 120 is operated by the player, a specific sound notice is output after which the second effect sound is output. In the present embodiment, such a notice effect including a button notice and a specific sound notice is referred to as an operation effect. A specific example of the operation effect process will be described with reference to FIG.

  Next, based on the value of the variable display time timer, it is confirmed whether or not the variable display time timer has timed out (S847). If the variation display time timer has timed out (S848Y), the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the effect symbol variation stop process (S803) (S849). On the other hand, when the variable display time timer has not timed out (S847N), it is confirmed whether or not a confirmation command reception flag indicating that a symbol confirmation designation command has been received is set (S848). When the confirmation command reception flag is not set (S848N), the effect symbol changing process ends. On the other hand, when the confirmation command reception flag is set (S848Y), the process proceeds to S849. As described above, even if the variation display time timer has not timed out (S847N), when the symbol confirmation designation command is received, the control shifts to the variation stop. For example, a long variation due to noise between substrates or the like. Even when the variation pattern command indicating the time is received, the variation of the effect symbol can be ended when the regular variation time has elapsed (when the variation of the special symbol ends).

  FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing the operation effect process (S846). The effect control CPU 101 determines whether or not it is the button notice execution time by determining whether or not the data for executing the operation effect is set as the process data (S901). If it is not button replay execution, the process is terminated. On the other hand, when the button notice is being executed, it is determined whether the operated flag is set (S902). The operated flag is a flag that is set when the player operates the operation button 120, and will be described in detail later.

  If the operation completion flag is not set, it is determined whether or not it is during the operation effective period during which the operation action by the player can be detected effectively (S903). In S903, whether or not it is during the operation effective period is confirmed based on the effect control pattern determined in S617 in FIG. 22, whether or not it is the operation effective period, and the elapsed time from the start of the variable display is counted. Judgment is made based on the time value of the variable display time timer.

  If it is determined in S903 that the operation is not valid, the process is terminated. If the operation is valid, a button image is displayed on the effect display device 9 (S904). Next, based on the level of the operation detection signal input from the operation button 120 when the operation button 120 is operated, it is determined whether or not the operation button 120 has been operated by the player (S905). If no operation is detected, the process is terminated. If it is determined that the operation is detected, an effect image (image displayed as a result of the button notice) and a notice sound (first effect sound) displayed at the button notice are output (S906). Next, an operated flag is set (S907). Then, the process ends.

  If the operation completion flag is set in S902, the effect control CPU 101 determines whether the specific sound notice is being executed (S908). In S908, whether or not it is the specific sound notice execution time is confirmed based on the effect control pattern determined in S617 of FIG. 22 whether or not it is the specific sound notice execution period, and the elapsed time from the start of the variable display. It is determined based on the time value of the variable display time timer that counts time. If the specific sound notice is not being executed, the process is terminated. When the specific sound notice is being executed, the effect control CPU 101 controls the BGM, which is the third effect sound, to be lowered to a low level (S909). Next, the effect control CPU 101 executes a specific sound notice (S910). Thereafter, the process ends. Since the output of the volume is controlled as in S909 to S910, the specific sound that is the second effect sound output at the specific level can be easily heard.

  It should be noted that the effect control CPU 101 detects that the operation valid period during which the player can operate the operation button 120 has expired, or that the player has operated the button 120 during the operation valid period and has transmitted an operation detection signal. At any point in time, control for deleting the button image displayed in S904 is executed. In step S909, the effect control CPU 101 controls the BGM to lower the volume to a low level, and executes control to return to the standard level that is the volume before the specific sound notice is executed after the specific sound notice is executed. Furthermore, the CPU 101 for effect control transmits the first effect sound by the button notice output in S906 and the second effect sound by the specific sound notice output in S910 from the same sound channel among the sound channels shown in FIG. Control to output.

[Second Embodiment]
In the embodiment described above, a plurality of types of notices may be provided in the notice determination table of FIG. Specifically, depending on the degree of expectation that the variable display will result in a jackpot display even in the button notice, buttons with three or more relationships of weak button notice <middle button notice <strong button notice, or more different expectations Establish a notice. In such a case, the production control CPU 101 performs the lottery for executing the specific sound notice prior to the lottery for executing the button notice, and when it is determined that the specific sound notice is to be executed, the button notice is executed. Control is made so that a notice with a high expectation level (strong button notice) is not selected. Also, if the lottery for the button notice is performed prior to the lottery for the specific sound notice, and the strong notice with a high jackpot expectation has been determined as the button notice, You may control to rewrite to a low weak notice. With such control, it is possible to control so that a weak notice (weak button notice) appears in the button notice executed before the specific sound notice. By controlling in this way, a specific sound notice with a high degree of expectation of jackpot is executed after the button notice, so that a player who has been disappointed can be given great joy.

Next, main effects obtained by the embodiment described above will be described.
(1) As shown in FIG. 21, the specific sound notice is executed after the button notice is executed. Furthermore, in the button notice and the specific sound notice determined in S651 to S657 in FIG. 24, the first effect sound output at the button notice and the second effect sound output at the specific sound notice are output from the same channel. The Therefore, when the second effect sound based on the specific sound notice with a high expectation level is output, all the channels that output the sound are used, and the second effect sound is not output because there is no empty channel. Therefore, it is possible to secure a channel for suitably outputting the production sound.

  (2) As shown in S904 of FIG. 26, the button image is displayed, and after the button notification for urging the player to operate the operation button 120 is executed, the specific sound notification is executed. Therefore, it is possible to cause the player to expect that the specific sound notice may be executed after the button notice, and to easily attract the player's attention to the specific sound notice.

  (3) Since the specific sound notice is executed on the condition that the operation button 120 is operated as shown in S901 to S910 of FIG. 26, the player's willingness to operate can be improved.

  (4) As shown in S909 of FIG. 26, when the specific sound notice is executed, the volume of the BGM (third effect sound) output at the same time is controlled to be lowered. In this way, it is possible to make it easier for the player to hear the specific sound (second effect sound) output in the specific sound notice.

  (5) As shown in the second embodiment, since the button notice executed before the specific sound notice is controlled so that a weak notice appears, a specific sound notice having a high expectation level after the button notice is displayed. By being executed, great joy can be given to a player who has been discouraged once.

  (6) As shown in FIG. 21, even when the BGM volume is low, the volume of the specific sound that is the second effect sound output in the specific sound notice is controlled to be maintained at the specific level. Is done. In this way, the volume of the second effect sound does not become too small.

Next, modifications, feature points, and the like of the embodiment described above are listed below.
(1) In the above-described embodiment, the case where the button notice is executed by the operation of the operation button 120 as the detection means has been described. However, the detection means may be an operation lever (lever) that can be tilted, a jog dial, a cross key, and the like. But you can. Further, the player's motion may be detected by a camera or an infrared sensor that can sense the player's motion.

  (2) In the above-described embodiment, the case where the specific sound notification is executed after a time lag of several seconds with respect to the execution timing after the button notification is executed is shown. The specific sound notice may be executed immediately after the button 120 is operated.

  (3) In the above-described embodiment, the specific sound notice is executed at a high rate when the display result of the variable display is a big hit, and the specific sound notice is a so-called intense heat notice. However, the specific sound notice may not be executed in the event of a loss, but may be executed only in the case of a big hit. If it does in this way, it can be set as the big hit confirmation notice that a big hit is decided by performing a specific sound notice.

  (4) In the embodiment described above, the specific sound notice is described as a notice that there is a possibility that a jackpot display result may be obtained during the variable display. For example, a notice in the jackpot gaming state (for example, normal Promotional advance notice to advance from state to probable state, round advance notice to indicate that the round will continue further, hold continuous notice, etc., advance notice before reaching reach, advance notice after reaching reach, stop pattern May be applied to a notice at the time of re-lottery (for example, a re-lottery effect) that changes from a normal big hit symbol to a probable big hit symbol. In addition, even if it is applied to a latent suggestion notice for notifying that the probability variation state is latent when the probability variation latent effect is executed, which indicates that the probability variation state is hidden by executing the same effect as the normal state Good. Moreover, you may apply to some or all of these notices. Note that the hold continuous notice is a so-called hold continuous notice that prefetches the hold memory at the time of the jackpot display result and the hold memory during the jackpot game and generates a new jackpot in the hold memory. It is something that predicts that Chang has occurred.

  (5) In the above-described embodiment, as shown in FIG. 24, after the presence / absence of the button notice is determined, the presence / absence of the specific sound notice is determined. However, the button notice and the specific sound notice may be determined at the same time. In such a case, for the change that has been determined to be the jackpot display result, the rate at which the button notice and the specific sound notice are executed is greater than the change that has been determined to be the outlier display result. Just make it higher. Alternatively, a lottery for button announcement may be performed after the lottery for specific sound announcement.

  (6) In the embodiment described above, the specific sound notice is executed after the button notice is executed. However, the notice that is executed before the specific sound notice is executed is not limited to the button notice but may be another notice. For example, the specific sound notice may be executed after the step-up notice that does not require an operation by the player shown in FIG. 23 is executed. In addition, a specific sound notice may be executed after a mini character notice in which a small character is displayed and a big hit expectation degree is noticed by a difference in the character itself or a difference in clothes.

  (7) In the above-described embodiment, the sound executed in the specific sound notice is described as a sound with a low volume. However, a mosquito sound (a high-frequency sound around 17000 Hz) that is a sound close to a human audible limit, An unpleasant sound such as a mosquito's feather sound may be used. In such a case, the sound itself is difficult to hear even when the volume is increased.

  (8) In the above-described embodiment, the notice before the specific sound notice may be a notice (first specific sound notice) in which a sound that is difficult to hear is output in the same manner as the specific sound notice. As described above, the specific sound advance notice (second specific sound advance notice) is executed next to the first specific sound advance notice, so that even if it is doubtful that the sound was heard in the first notice, the player can further specify the second specific sound advance notice. Can pay attention to the sound. In such a case, when the first specific sound advance notice is executed, the sound output at the same time only when the second specific sound advance notice is executed without lowering the volume of the sound output simultaneously. You may make it reduce the sound volume. In this way, even if the first sound cannot be heard well, it is easy to hear by listening carefully with the second sound.

  (9) In the embodiment described above, the button notice is a notice accompanied by the output of sound, but the notice may be given only by an image. Then, the specific sound notice may be executed after the button notice without sound output. Note that, even when the notice to be executed before the specific sound notice is only an image, it is preferable to secure a sound channel for executing the specific sound notice at the stage where the notice of only the image is executed. (For example, a sound channel with a volume of zero is ensured with a preview of only an image, and the volume of that sound channel is increased with a specific sound notification). Also, the specific sound notice may be a specific image notice that is displayed by displaying a specific image that is difficult to notice in a normal game.

  (10) In the above-described embodiment, when the specific sound notice is executed, the volume of other sounds such as BGM (third effect sound) output at the same time is reduced, but is output at the same time. It is not necessary to reduce the other volume.

  (11) In the above-described embodiment, in order to emphasize that the specific sound advance notice is difficult to hear, other sounds that are output simultaneously with the specific sound (second effect sound) output in the specific sound advance notice ( The third effect sound (such as BGM) may be increased only when the specific sound notice is executed.

  (12) In the embodiment described above, a plurality of specific sound volumes may be provided. Also, the big hit expectation may be different depending on the volume of the specific sound. Furthermore, a plurality of types of specific sounds having different melodies such as specific sound A and specific sound B may be provided. In such a case, the big hit expectation may differ depending on which specific sound is output.

  (13) In the above-described embodiment, the specific sound notice may be applied to a gaming machine that is capable of playing a game in a game mode in which the player's past game history is reflected by the player's selection. . A game mode executed by such a gaming machine is called a “portable interlocking mode”, and in order to play a game, a mobile terminal or the like is used to connect to a management server, and the player's own ID is issued in advance. In response, the player can change the game mode to the portable interlocking mode by performing a predetermined operation such as ID input in the pachinko gaming machine 1 when starting the game. By executing a specific sound advance notice in such a mobile-linked mode, game points (“experience value”, “level”, “coin”, etc., names may be arbitrary) are given, and the game points are a predetermined value. For example, predetermined digital contents (music, images, application programs, etc.) may be provided.

  (14) In the above-described embodiment, a pseudo-continuous effect may be executed as the effect executed in the variable display. The pseudo-continuous is a pseudo-continuous variation that is an effect display that makes it appear that a plurality of variations corresponding to a plurality of reserved memories are continuously performed although it is originally a variation corresponding to one reserved memory. Is an abbreviation for Further, as an effect executed in the variable display, a slide effect may be executed. Slip refers to an effect display in which the symbol is slid from the predicted stop position immediately before the symbol stops in the variable display.

  (15) In the above-described embodiment, in order to notify the microcomputer for effect control of the change pattern indicating the change mode such as the change time, the type of reach effect, the presence / absence of pseudo-ream, etc., Although an example of transmitting the variation pattern command has been shown, the variation pattern may be notified to the effect 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. In the game control microcomputer, the change time is notified by each of the two commands, and a specific change mode executed at each timing is selected by the effect control microcomputer. Also good. When two commands are sent, the two commands may be transmitted within the same timer interrupt. After the first command is transmitted, a predetermined period elapses (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 appropriately changed. 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. Further, in the configuration in which the change pattern is notified to the effect control microcomputer by two commands in this way, the determination of the display result by the effect process at winning in the second command after transmitting the first command Based on the result and the pre-read determination information such as the variation pattern type and the second command received, the variation display is performed multiple times from the stage before the variation display start due to the start winning. It is also possible to execute the effect of the pre-reading notice to notify the notice continuously over a period of time.

  (16) In the above-described embodiment, the effect control board 80, the audio output board 70, and the lamp driver board 35 are provided as the boards on which the circuit for controlling the effect device is mounted. May be mounted on one substrate. Further, a first effect control board (display control board) on which a circuit for controlling the effect display device 9 and the like is mounted, and a circuit for controlling other effect devices (lamps, LEDs, speakers 27R, 27L, etc.) are mounted. Alternatively, two substrates, the second effect control substrate, may be provided.

  (17) In the above-described embodiment, the game control microcomputer 560 directly transmits a command to the effect control microcomputer 100. However, the game control microcomputer 560 transmits another command (for example, a voice). A production control command is given to a sound / lamp board having a function of a circuit mounted on the output board 70, the lamp driver board 35, etc., or a circuit mounted on the sound output board 70 and a function of a circuit mounted on the lamp driver board 35). It is also possible to transmit it to the effect control microcomputer 100 on the effect control board 80 via another board. In that case, the command may simply pass through another board, or the sound output board 70, the lamp driver board 35, and the sound / lamp board are equipped with control means such as a microcomputer, and the control means receives the command. In response to this, control related to voice control and lamp control is executed, and the received command is changed as it is or, for example, to a simplified command to control the effect display device 9. You may make it transmit to. Even in that case, the effect control microcomputer 100 performs the display control in accordance with the effect control command received directly from the game control microcomputer 560 in the above-described embodiment. Display control can be performed in response to commands received from the board 35 or the sound / lamp board. In the case of such a configuration, various determinations performed by the production control microcomputer 100 in the above-described embodiment may be similarly performed by the production control microcomputer 100, or audio output is performed. Control means such as a microcomputer mounted on the board 70, the lamp driver board 35, or the sound / lamp board may be used.

  (18) In the embodiment described above, a gaming machine that pays out game media to a player's hand in response to the occurrence of a win has been described. However, the game media is enclosed and the game media is transferred to the player in response to the occurrence of a win. An enclosed game machine that adds game points (scores) without paying out to the player may be adopted. The enclosed game machine has a circulation path for circulating a plurality of balls, which are examples of game media, in the game machine, and is provided with a storage unit for storing game points. The game points are added to the storage unit, the game points are subtracted from the storage unit in response to the ball launching operation, and the game points are added to the storage unit in response to the occurrence of a prize. In addition, the gaming machine has a configuration in which a game board that forms a game area into which a game ball is driven is attached to a game frame provided with a launching device and a ball payout device. The basic functions may be shared, and only the game board having the characteristic structure of the game may be distributed. In this case, the game board having the characteristic structure of the game is referred to as a game machine.

  (19) The embodiment described above can also be applied to devices such as game machines that simulate the operation of the pachinko gaming machine 1. The program and data for realizing the above-described embodiment are not limited to a form distributed and provided to a computer apparatus or the like by a detachable recording medium, but a storage apparatus that the computer apparatus or the like has in advance. You may take the form that is distributed by pre-installing. 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 embodiment is not only executed by attaching a removable recording medium, but can also be executed by temporarily storing a program and data downloaded via a communication line or the like in an internal memory or the like. It is also possible to execute directly using hardware resources on the other device side on a network connected via a communication line or the like. Further, the game can be executed by exchanging data with other computer devices or the like via a network.

  (20) In the above-described embodiment, an example in which 15 rounds of normal big hits and 15 rounds of probable big hits are shown as the types of big hits. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a big hit type of three or more rounds may be provided, such as a big hit of 15 rounds, a big hit of 10 rounds, a big hit of 5 rounds, and a big hit of 2 rounds. Good. In that case, for example, the big hit type is classified into a big hit type group (for example, a big hit of 15 rounds, a big hit of 10 rounds) and a big hit type group (for example, 5 rounds) where it is difficult to obtain a winning ball. And the 2nd special symbol is set so that the ratio of the big hit type of the big hit type group where the prize ball is easily obtained is higher than the 1st special symbol. May be.

  (21) In the embodiment described above, after the variable display result when the display of the variable display is determined to be a probabilistic jackpot is derived and displayed, after the jackpot gaming state ends, the probable state is unconditionally changed. An example of controlled probability state control is shown. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the probability variation determination device that is controlled to the probability variation state when the detection means detects that the game ball has passed through a specific area provided in the special winning opening in the special variable winning ball device 20. Type probabilistic state control may be performed.

  (22) In the above-described embodiment, the “ratio (ratio, probability)” has been described using a specific value exceeding 0% as a specific example. However, the “ratio (ratio, probability)” may be 0%. For example, when the occurrence ratio of a predetermined game state 1 in a predetermined game period is compared with the occurrence ratio of another game state 2, and “one occurrence ratio is higher than the other occurrence ratio” This includes the case where the percentage of occurrence of one game state is 0%.

  (23) It should be understood that the embodiment disclosed this time is illustrative in all respects and not restrictive. 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.

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Pachinko machine, 8a 1st special symbol display, 8b 2nd special symbol display, 9 production | presentation display device, 13a 1st start winning opening, 13b 2nd starting winning opening, 15 variable winning ball apparatus, 20 special variable winning Ball device, 31 Game control board (main board), 560 Game control microcomputer, 56 CPU, 80 effect control board, 100 effect control microcomputer, 101 effect control CPU, 109 VDP, 703 Voice synthesis IC.

Claims (1)

A gaming machine capable of playing games,
Provided with sound output means for outputting production sound,
The sound output means is
When outputting a plurality of the production sounds simultaneously, each production sound is output using a different channel,
A notice effect control means capable of executing a second notice effect with an output of the second effect sound after executing the first notice effect with the output of the first effect sound;
Simultaneous output control means for outputting a sound that is easier to hear than the second effect sound simultaneously with the second effect sound,
The notice effect control means is a gaming machine that outputs the second effect sound using the same channel as the channel used to output the first effect sound.

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