JP2015163301A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To adequately convey to a player a presentation suggesting a winning probability of a lottery and a presentation suggesting a result of the lottery.SOLUTION: The game machine includes: lottery means 210 for performing a lottery that determines whether or not to generate a special prize state; probability setting means 210 for setting a winning probability to generate the special prize state by the lottery of the lottery means 210 to a normal probability or a high probability; and notification means 120 for making a first notification that suggests a winning probability of the lottery by the lottery means 210 set by the probability setting means 210 and for making a second notification that suggests the result of a lottery by the lottery means 210. The notification means 120 executes the first notification and the second notification respectively at different times.

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine that variably displays a symbol on a symbol display device, stops the symbol in a predetermined manner, and causes a predetermined gaming state, and in particular, in a probability variation non-notification type gaming machine, The present invention relates to a gaming machine suitable for improvement.

  In the conventional pachinko machine, when a game ball is won at the start winning opening, the symbol display is started on the symbol display device, and a jackpot lottery is performed to determine whether or not the special prize state (jackpot) is caused. When it is determined that the special prize state is to be generated by the big hit lottery, the symbols are stopped and displayed in a specific combination after a predetermined time has elapsed, and the special prize state is generated after the symbols are stopped. When the special prize state is generated, the special winning opening is controlled to open and close with a predetermined opening / closing pattern, and a predetermined number (for example, 15) of winning balls is paid out for each winning prize.

In addition, when it is decided to generate a special prize state in the jackpot lottery, a probability variation lottery is performed to determine whether or not a probability variation state in which the winning probability of the jackpot lottery is higher than the normal state is generated, and the probability variation in the probability variation lottery When it is decided to cause the state, the probability variation state is caused after the jackpot is finished.
Here, in the pachinko machine that causes the probability variation state, by not clearly informing the player that the probability variation state has occurred, there is something that gives the player surprise and improves the interest of the game is there.

  For example, in the pachinko machine described in Patent Document 1, when the probability variation state is occurring, the probability variation state is set through the effect pattern by setting the frequency with which the predetermined effect pattern is displayed on the symbol display device high. Suggests to the player whether or not

JP 2007-200 A

  However, in the pachinko machine described in Patent Literature 1, the degree of expectation that the special prize state is generated is also suggested to the player by the effect pattern displayed on the symbol display device. Therefore, in the pachinko machine described in Patent Document 1, whether a certain production pattern suggests that a probability variation state has occurred or whether it expects a degree of expectation that a special prize state will occur. There is a problem that a person may not be able to grasp.

  The present invention has been made in order to solve the above-described problems of the prior art, and its purpose is to suggest the result of the lottery by the rendering and the lottery means for suggesting that the probability variation state has occurred. An object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine capable of accurately transmitting a performance to a player.

  In order to achieve the above object, the gaming machine according to the present invention is a lottery means for performing a lottery to determine whether or not a special prize state is to be generated, with the winning of a game ball in the starting prize opening, to the starting prize opening. The symbol variation which displays the variation of the symbol in response to the winning of the game ball of the game, stops the symbol after the variation display of the symbol, and informs the player of the result of the lottery by the lottery means according to the symbol which is stopped and displayed And a probability setting means for setting a winning probability for generating a special prize state of the lottery by the lottery means to a normal probability or a high probability, wherein the lottery set by the probability setting means A notification means for performing a first notification indicating a winning probability of the lottery by the means and a second notification indicating a result of the lottery by the lottery means, and the notification means transmits the first notification of the symbol Running when the stop display is performed, and executes the second broadcast when the variable display of the symbols is done.

  As described above, according to the present invention, it is possible to accurately transmit to the player the effect that suggests the winning probability of the lottery by the lottery means and the effect that suggests the result of the lottery by the lottery means.

It is the figure which showed typically the front part of the game board surface 102 in a pachinko machine, especially the part required for description. 2 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a game control device 200. FIG. It is a figure which shows the aspect of the stop symbol of a special symbol. It is a figure which shows the data structure of a control command. It is a timing chart which shows the input / output timing of a control command. It is a diagram showing the contents of a control command output from the main control device 210 to the effect control device 150. It is a figure which shows the data structure of the fluctuation pattern determination table 440. FIG. It is a flowchart which shows a game control process. It is a flowchart which shows an interruption process. It is a flowchart which shows a random number update process. It is a flowchart which shows a winning switch input process. It is a flowchart which shows a jackpot determination process. It is a flowchart which shows production control processing. It is a flowchart which shows a stop symbol designation | designated command reception process. It is a figure which shows the content of the state transfer preparation flag. It is a flowchart which shows an alerting | reporting means control process. It is a flowchart which shows production control processing. It is a flowchart which shows an expectation degree alerting | reporting process. It is a flowchart which shows production control processing. It is a flowchart which shows a probability change alerting | reporting process. It is a flowchart which shows an alerting | reporting means control process.

Hereinafter, a first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
In the present embodiment, the gaming machine according to the present invention is applied to a pachinko machine that variably displays a plurality of symbols on the effect symbol display device 104 as shown in FIG.
First, the configuration of the game board surface 102 in the pachinko machine will be described.
FIG. 1 is a diagram schematically showing a front portion of a game board surface 102 in a pachinko machine, particularly a portion necessary for explanation.

  As shown in FIG. 1, an effect symbol display device 104 that displays an effect symbol independently in three regions (not shown) is provided at substantially the center of the game board surface 102. The production symbol display device 104 includes, for example, a variable display device such as a liquid crystal display or a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) display, a 7-segment LED, a dot matrix display device, a drum that variably displays by rotation of a motor, and the like. The effect design made up of symbols and symbols is variably displayed. In the present embodiment, the effect symbol display device 104 is configured by a variable display device that can display an image such as a background and a plurality of symbols as a moving image, and can display a variety of effect symbols.

Below the effect symbol display device 104 is provided a normal symbol display device 108 that displays a normal symbol consisting of a one-digit number from “0” to “9” while varying it. The normal symbol display device 108 is composed of, for example, a 7-segment LED.
A normal symbol start gate 122 is provided on the left side of the effect symbol display device 104. When the game ball passes, the normal symbol start gate 122 detects the winning of the game ball based on a detection signal from a start gate switch (not shown) inside the pachinko machine, and gives an opportunity to start the variable display of the normal symbol display device 108. . The normal symbol variation display is stopped after a predetermined variation time has elapsed, and a lottery result notification and presentation are performed. Also, below the normal symbol start gate 122, two general winning ports 124 and 125 are provided that allow the game ball to be always won.

  A start winning device 111 is provided below the effect symbol display device 104. The winning device 11 includes a first start winning port 111a that is always open, and a movable second start winning port 111b provided below the first start winning port 111a. The first start winning opening 111a is always capable of winning a game ball to the start winning apparatus 111. The second start winning opening 111b is an electric accessory (movable member) capable of changing a winning probability called a so-called electric chew (electric tulip). The second start winning opening 111b is normally closed, but when the number displayed on the normal symbol display device 108 is in a specific mode, it can be opened in a predetermined pattern to win a game ball. And When the game winning ball 111 wins, the start winning device 111 detects the winning of the game ball based on the detection signal of the start winning port switch 131 (see FIG. 2) inside the pachinko machine, and starts the variation display of the effect symbols on the effect symbol display device 104. The special symbol display device 106 is given an opportunity to start displaying changes in the special symbol. The variation display of the special symbol and the effect symbol is stopped after a predetermined variation time has elapsed, and a lottery result notification and effect are performed.

  On the right side of the start winning device 111, there is provided a special symbol display device 106 that displays the special symbols in two regions while independently varying them. The special symbol display device 106 includes, for example, a variable display device such as a liquid crystal display or a CRT display, a 7-segment LED, a dot matrix display device, and the like, and variably displays a special symbol composed of a plurality of numbers, symbols, and the like. In the present embodiment, the special symbol display device 106 is configured by a 2-digit 7-segment LED. Here, a gaming state in which the special symbols stopped and displayed on the special symbol display device 106 are generated in a specific combination is called a “special prize state” (big win or small hit), and the “special prize” This refers to a point that shifts to an advantageous state in which a predetermined game value is given, such as paying out a large number of prize balls to a player. Further, the special symbol corresponds to the effect symbol displayed on the effect symbol display device 104.

  On the upper side of the special symbol display device 106, a game state display device 109 for notifying the state of the pachinko machine is provided. The gaming state display device 109 is constituted by a display device composed of LEDs, for example, and notifies the gaming state by lighting or flashing. The game state display device 109 is linked with storing information on each game ball won in the start winning device 111 during the change of special symbols or the like in the reserved area for each game ball in the RAM of the main control device. Lights up or flashes and displays the number of times the symbols can be changed continuously. Further, the game state display device 109 stores the information of each game ball that has passed through the normal symbol start gate 122 during the normal symbol lottery in the reserved area for each game ball in the RAM of the main controller. It lights up or flashes in conjunction with the number of times that a lottery with normal symbols can be executed continuously.

  Below the starting prize-winning device 111, there is provided a big prize opening 115 that allows a game ball to be won by being closed in a predetermined pattern when it is normally closed but is opened in a predetermined pattern. Yes. When the special symbol stopped and displayed on the special symbol display device 106 is in a specific combination (that is, when it becomes a special prize), the special prize opening 115 is placed on the front of the special prize opening 115 in the subsequent special prize state. The installed opening / closing member 115a performs opening and closing operations. During the occurrence of the special prize state, the opening / closing member 115a opens almost horizontally and accepts a large number of game balls. When a game ball wins, the big prize opening 115 counts the number of game balls won by a detection signal of a big prize opening switch 132 (not shown) inside the pachinko machine, and pays out the winning ball when winning. The opening of the special winning opening 115 is continued until a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds) elapses or a predetermined number of gaming balls (for example, ten predetermined winning prize winning numbers, for example) are won. One opening of the big prize opening 115 is called a round. The round continues from 1R → 2R →... Until the maximum round.

An out port 110 for collecting game balls that have not won any of the above winning ports or the like is provided below the big winning port 115 and at the lowest part of the game board surface 102.
Further, a notification means 120 is disposed on the right side of the effect symbol display device 104. In the present embodiment, the notification unit 120 is formed of a plate-like body whose character is designed on the surface. Inside the notification means 120, a light emitting element is incorporated. And the alerting | reporting means 120 operate | moves for a predetermined time by receiving the operation signal from the alerting | reporting control part 168 of the production | presentation control apparatus 150. FIG. When receiving the operation signal from the notification control unit 168, the notification unit 120 emits light designed on the surface by the light emitting element and swings back and forth in a predetermined pattern by a driving unit (not shown).

  Hereinafter, the gaming state in which the winning probability of the jackpot lottery is low (ordinary probability) after the jackpot ends is referred to as “low probability state”, and the winning probability of the jackpot lottery after the jackpot ends is compared with the low probability state. A gaming state having a high probability (for example, 10 times the normal probability) is referred to as a “probability variation state”. In addition, the special symbol and the production symbol variation time shortening function, and the lottery probability of the normal symbol that is drawn when the game ball passes the normal symbol start gate 122 is higher than the normal lottery probability. Two functions (hereinafter referred to as time-shortening functions) that increase the probability (for example, 10 times) and extend the opening time of the second start winning opening 111b compared to the normal opening time (the opening time becomes longer). ) Is called “time-short operation state”, and a game state in which the time-short function is inactive is called “time-short operation state”.

Next, the configuration of the game control device 200 in the pachinko machine will be described.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a configuration of the game control device 200.
As shown in FIG. 2, the game control device 200 is mainly composed of three control units: a main control device 210, an effect control device 150, and a symbol control device 152. In order to prevent fraud, etc., each control unit is usually mounted on a separate board and can be directly or indirectly connected to transmit data to each other or in one direction.
The main control device 210 transmits a control command and controls the entire game in accordance with a random number generated internally based on the detection of the game ball by winning the start winning device 111, and also displays the special symbol display device 106. Control directly.

The effect control device 150 transmits a liquid crystal control command (second control command) for controlling the symbol control device 152 in accordance with a control command (first control command) transmitted from the main control device 210.
The symbol control device 152 controls the effect symbol display device 104 according to the liquid crystal control command (second control command) transmitted from the effect control device 150.
The main controller 210 includes a CPU 220, a ROM 230, a RAM 240, an input port 250 and an output port 255.

  The output port 255 outputs a special symbol display output port for outputting to the special symbol display device 106, a normal symbol display output port for outputting to the normal symbol display device 108, and an output to the effect control device 150. A command output port for effect control device, a command output port for prize ball payout for performing output to the prize ball payout control device 156 for performing prize ball payout control with respect to the prize ball payout device, and the big prize opening 115 are opened and closed. A large winning opening solenoid output port for outputting to the large winning opening solenoid 158, a gaming state display output port for outputting to the gaming state display device 109, and an external information output port 256 for outputting to an external hall computer. It consists of.

  Although not shown, the external information output port 256 includes at least a first signal generation unit that is a first signal generation unit and a second signal generation unit that is a second signal generation unit. The first signal generator generates a signal that is output during the state so that a state such as the jackpot information signal can be identified. The output time varies depending on the state and the like. In addition, when the special prize state in which the probability variation state occurs is determined without notifying that the probability variation state occurs, the first signal generation unit outputs a jackpot signal that can identify the special prize state. Since no output is made (a jackpot signal output prohibition setting), the probability variation state can be set to the non-notification state. For example, the second signal generation unit detects a change in a state such as a symbol determination number information signal and generates a signal. Further, since the output time is to notify the detection, it is output for a preset period (specifically, 248 [ms] for each detection, and the same interval so that the output signal is not continuous. Output).

The main controller 210 receives detection signals from the start winning port switch 131, the big winning port switch 132, and other various winning port switches 133 via the input port 250 and processes them.
The main controller 210 controls the special symbol display device 106, the normal symbol display device 108, the big prize opening solenoid 158, the external information output unit, and the game state display device 109 via the output port 255. Here, “control” means, for example, processing in which the main controller 210 changes the special symbol by sending a control signal related to display driving directly from the output port 255 to the special symbol display device 106. For example, it includes sending a signal (command) from the CPU 220 directly without judgment by another CPU or controlling without a time delay (time lag) due to an interrupt or the like.

  The main control device 210 transmits an effect control command (a first control command such as a symbol designating command and a variation pattern command) to the effect control device 150 to control the effect control device 150 by command transmission. Here, the symbol designating command is a control command for designating a combination of stop symbols of effect symbols. The variation pattern command is a control command for designating the screen variation mode and the rendering time such as reach, disengagement, special award, etc. displayed on the rendering symbol display device 104.

The ROM 230 stores a program for controlling the pachinko machine executed by the main controller 210. The ROM 230 further stores values of various parameters for controlling the pachinko machine including a symbol designation command for controlling the effect control device 150 and a variation pattern command.
The RAM 240 temporarily stores input / output data for the main control device 210, data for arithmetic processing, various counters including a random number counter related to games, and a holding memory for storing information on each holding ball. .
The RAM 240 stores a control command to be output in a predetermined area, and when the power is restored from a power failure, the contents of the RAM 240 are restored to the state immediately before the power failure, and the control command to be output from the RAM 240 is output to shut off the power. Return the gaming state to the previous state.

  The main controller 210 is connected to a power supply circuit 212 for supplying power. When the power supply circuit 212 detects that the voltage of the power supply line supplied to the entire main controller 210 has become equal to or lower than a predetermined voltage value, the power supply circuit 212 sends a power-off detection signal indicating that the power supply has been cut off to the CPU 220. Output. When power-off is detected, the power supply line supplied to the entire main controller 210 is switched to a power supply line directly connected to the CPU 220 when the power is turned off. Thereby, since power is supplied to the RAM 240 from the power supply line directly connected to the CPU 220, information can be held.

  The effect control device 150 includes a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, an input port, and an output port, like the main control device 210. The effect control device 150 receives the effect control command (first control command) transmitted from the main control device 210, generates a liquid crystal display control command (second control command) according to the received effect control command, It transmits to the symbol control device 152.

  The effect control device 150 includes a sound control unit 162 that performs sound control for outputting sound from the speaker 155, a lamp control unit 164 that performs lamp control for lighting the lamp 153, and a notification control unit that performs notification control for operating a notification unit. 168. Note that the sound control unit 162, the lamp control unit 164, and the notification control unit 168 are controlled by command communication using internal commands in the effect control device 150. However, it can also be realized by direct control regardless of command communication.

  The notification control unit 168 has a predetermined probability (a predetermined probability according to the first invention, a second probability according to the third invention) when the effect symbol display device 104 is displaying the stop of the effect symbol. To activate the notification means. That is, after receiving the symbol stop command from the main control device 210, the effect control device 150 determines by lottery whether or not to activate the notification means 120. Then, when it is determined that the notification unit 120 is to be operated, the effect control device 150 transmits an operation signal to the notification unit 120.

In this way, the effect control device 150 is useful for reducing the load on the main control device 210 by specially performing control related to effects such as liquid crystal display, lamp lighting, and sound effect generation.
The symbol control device 152 receives the liquid crystal display control command (second control command) transmitted from the effect control device 150, and causes the effect symbol display device 104 to variably display or stop the effect symbol in accordance with the liquid crystal display control command. .

Next, the mode of the stop symbol of the special symbol and the effect symbol will be described.
FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an aspect of a special symbol stop symbol.
In the pachinko machine, as shown in FIG. 3, there are five types of jackpots or jackpots: “ordinary jackpot”, “probable variation one jackpot”, “probable variation two jackpot”, “probability variation three jackpot” and “small bonus” It is prescribed. Each type is identified by hit type numbers “0” to “4”.

  When a normal jackpot is reached, the special symbol display device 106 is controlled to stop and display the special symbol at the short time symbol and at the effect symbol display device 104 to stop and display the effect symbol at the short time symbol. For example, in the effect symbol display device 104, the time-short symbol is a combination of even numbers such as “222”, “444”, and “666”. In addition, when a normal jackpot is reached, the maximum number of times the grand prize winning opening 115 is opened at the time of the jackpot, that is, the maximum number of continuations of the round is 15, and a short-time operation state is entered in the 100 lotteries after the jackpot. Furthermore, when the big jackpot is normally reached, the gaming state after the big jackpot is set to a low probability state.

  When the probable variation 1 big hit is reached, the special symbol display device 106 performs control so that the special symbol is stopped and displayed with the probable variation 1 symbol and the effect symbol display device 104 is stopped and displayed with the probable variation 1 symbol. For example, in the effect symbol display device 104, the probability variation 1 symbol is a combination of odd numbers such as “111”, “333”, and “555”. In addition, when the probability variation is 1 big hit, the maximum number of continuations of the round is 15 times, and the short-time operation state is entered in 10,000 lotteries after the big hit. Further, when the probability change 1 big hit, the gaming state after the big hit is set to the probability fluctuation state.

  When the probable variation 2 big hit, the special symbol display device 106 is controlled to stop and display the special symbol with the probable variation 1 symbol and the effect symbol display device 104 to stop and display the effect symbol with the probable variation 2 symbol. In addition, when the probabilistic 2 big hit is reached, the maximum number of continuations of the round is 2 times, and the short-time operation state is entered in the 10,000 lotteries after the big win. Furthermore, when the probability variation 2 jackpot is reached, the gaming state after the jackpot is set to the probability variation state.

  When the probable variation 3 big hit is reached, the special symbol display device 106 performs control so that the special symbol is stopped and displayed with the probable variation 1 symbol and the effect symbol display device 104 is stopped and displayed with the probable variation 3 symbol. In addition, when the probability variation is 3 big hits, the maximum number of continuations of the round is 2. In addition, when the probability variation is 3 big hits, if it is in the short time non-actuated state at the time of the big hit (at the time when the symbol variation pattern for notifying the occurrence of the big hit is started), it becomes the short time non-actuated state after the big hit, In the operation state, control is performed so that the short-time operation state is continued after the big hit (short-time continuous control). Further, when the probability variation 3 jackpot is reached, the gaming state after the jackpot is set to the probability variation state.

  Probability 2 jackpots and Probability 3 jackpots are similar to other jackpot closing times between rounds, but the round period (opening time) is shorter than the regular jackpot. Since the maximum number of continuations of the game is only two, the player can be given a surprise as if the player suddenly shifted to the probability variation state without making a big hit. In addition, it is easy for game shops to make a balance between the probability of winning and operation. In addition, the opening time of the winning prize opening 115 is about several ms, which is extremely shorter than the normal big hit and the probable big hit.

  When a small hit is reached, the special symbol display device 106 controls to stop and display the special symbol as a small hit symbol and the effect symbol display device 104 to stop and display the effect symbol as a small bonus symbol. The probabilistic 3 symbol and the small winning symbol are composed of a combination of one or a plurality of specific symbols in the effect symbol display device 104, and cannot be distinguished from each other. In addition, when the small hit is reached, the maximum number of continuations of the round is two times, and control is performed so that the operation / non-operation of the short-time function does not change after the small hit. Further, when the small hit is reached, the gaming state after the small hit is set to the same gaming state as the gaming state before the small hit.

Next, the structure and content of the control command output from main controller 210 to effect controller 150 will be described.
FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a data structure of the control command.
As shown in FIG. 4, the control command is an identifier for identifying the classification of the control command, a mode (MODE) that is 1-byte digital data, and 1 byte indicating the content (function) of the control command to be executed. It consists of an event (EVENT) which is long digital data.

FIG. 5 is a timing chart showing the input / output timing of the control command.
As shown in FIG. 5, the main controller 210 outputs mode (MODE) data triggered by the first rise of the strobe signal (DUSTB) generated by itself when the command changes, and then the strobe signal (DUSTB). Event (EVENT) data is output in response to the second rising edge. Correspondingly, in the effect control device 150, the CPU generates an interrupt according to the input of the strobe signal (DUSTB), and the effect control command is stored in the RAM of the effect control device 150 by the interrupt process.

FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating the contents of the effect control command output from the main control device 210 to the effect control device 150.
As shown in FIG. 6, the effect control command includes a stop symbol designating command for designating any one of an off-stage design symbol, a time-short symbol, a probability variation 1 symbol, a probability variation 2 symbol, a probability variation 3 symbol, and a small hit symbol. The stop symbol designation command is output at the start of the special symbol variation.
The effect control command further includes a variation pattern command for designating one of n (n = 1 to 104) types of variation patterns. The variation pattern corresponds to the gaming state. For example, the variation pattern 5 corresponds to a gaming state that is lost after displaying the normal reach. When such a gaming state is determined by the main controller 210, a variation pattern command for designating the variation pattern 5 is Is output. The variation pattern command is output at the start of variation of the special symbol together with the stop symbol designation command.

The effect control command further includes a symbol stop command for designating stop of the effect symbol. The symbol stop command is output when the effect symbol is stopped.
The production control command further includes m (m = 1 to 95) types of 15R jackpot (normal jackpot, probability variation 1 jackpot) production start, probability variation 2 jackpot production start, probability variation 3 jackpot production start and jackpot performance. There is a production start command for designating each start. The production start command is output at the start of the big hit and at the start of the small hit.
The effect control command further includes a state designation command for designating the end and start of time reduction, respectively. The state designation command is output at the end of time reduction and at the start of time reduction.

Next, the data structure of the variation pattern determination table 440 will be described.
FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a data structure of the variation pattern determination table 440.
As shown in FIG. 7, the ROM 230 stores a variation pattern determination table 440 used to determine a variation pattern.
The variation pattern determination table 440 is provided corresponding to each of the big hit, the small hit, and the deviation. For the variation pattern determination table 440 corresponding to the big hit and the small win, the current gaming state (short-time operating state or short-time non-operating state), the big hit or the small hit type, the number of winning game balls (the number of reserved game balls) A plurality of "0" to "3" and a random number used for reach lottery (hereinafter referred to as reach determination random number) are provided. A plurality of variation pattern determination tables 440 corresponding to the loss are provided corresponding to the current gaming state, the number of winning game balls and the reach determination random number.

  For example, 211 records are registered in the variation pattern determination table 440. Each record includes a field for registering a variation pattern number indicating a variation pattern. A random number that can take any value in the numerical value range of “0” to “210” (hereinafter referred to as a variation pattern determination random number) is acquired, and the variation pattern number is read from the record of the rank of the acquired random value and read. The variation pattern specified by the variation pattern number is determined. For example, when the random value is “30”, the fluctuation pattern number is acquired from the 30th record. In the example of FIG. 7, since “18” is read from the variation pattern determination table 440, the variation pattern 18 is determined.

Next, game control processing executed by the main controller 210 will be described.
The CPU 220 includes a microprocessing unit and the like, and operates based on a game control program that can execute one cycle with a predetermined operation clock (for example, 4 [ms]), and is stored in a predetermined area of the ROM 230. Is started, and the game control process shown in the flowchart of FIG. 8 is executed.

First, the game control process will be described.
FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the game control process.
When the game control process is executed by the CPU 220, the process first proceeds to step S100 as shown in FIG.
In step S100, an initialization process of the CPU 220 is executed, the process proceeds to step S102, and an interrupt permission instruction for executing the interrupt process of FIG. Accordingly, the interrupt process of FIG. 9 is executed in parallel with the game control process at a predetermined cycle (for example, 2 [ms]).

Next, the process proceeds to step S104, and a random number update process for updating an effect control random number related to the effect (for example, reach determination random number, variation pattern determination random number, random number for determining the type of symbol to be displayed) is executed, The process proceeds to step S106.
In step S106, it is determined whether or not the interrupt process of FIG. 9 has been executed a predetermined number of times (for example, twice) after the game control process has been executed, and when it is determined that the interrupt process has been executed a predetermined number of times (Yes) ) Shifts to step S108 to execute jackpot determination processing for determining a jackpot and determining a symbol variation pattern, and then shifts to step S110.

The process proceeds to step S110, and the electric accessory actuating process for opening the special winning opening 115 in a predetermined pattern is executed, and the process proceeds to step S112 to control the prize ball payout control device 156 to perform a payout operation. A prize-ball payout management process for storing the command in a predetermined area of the RAM 240 is executed, and the process proceeds to step S114.
In step S114, an external information output process for outputting an external information signal related to game control to the hall computer via the external information output port 256 is executed, and the process proceeds to step S116.

  In step S116, a gaming machine inspection signal output process for outputting a gaming machine inspection signal necessary for the inspection of the pachinko machine is executed. In step S116, a gaming machine inspection signal is output, but when installed in a gaming store, the pachinko machine does not include a control unit that receives the gaming machine inspection signal. This is because it is a signal required at the time of inspection in an inspection organization. In some cases, the process of step S116 can be omitted.

Next, the process proceeds to step S118, and a port output process for outputting the effect control command stored in the RAM 240 to the effect control device 150 via the effect control device command output port is executed. First, a strobe signal is output to the effect control device 150, and a control command including a mode and an event is output. Thereby, an effect control command (first control command) is output to the effect control device 150. Further, the control information from the main control device 210 is also output as it is to the special symbol display device 106, the special prize opening solenoid 158, the game state display device 109, and the like.
Next, the process proceeds to step S120, where it is determined whether or not a power-off detection signal is input from the power supply circuit 212. When it is determined that the power-off detection signal is input (Yes), the process proceeds to step S122.

In step S122, return information necessary for restoring the contents of the RAM 240 is generated, the generated restoration information is stored in the RAM 240, and a backup process for switching the CPU 220 to the power saving mode is executed. The backup process includes a process for setting a backup flag and a process for performing a checksum.
On the other hand, when it is determined in step S120 that the power-off detection signal is not input (No), and when it is determined in step S106 that the interrupt process has not been executed a predetermined number of times after the game control process has been executed (No). In any case, the process proceeds to step S104.

Next, interrupt processing will be described.
FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the interrupt process.
When the interrupt process is executed by the CPU 220, as shown in FIG. 9, first, the process proceeds to step S150.
In step S150, a random control random number (eg, a random number used in a big lottery for determining whether or not to generate a big hit (hereinafter referred to as a big hit random number), a big hit type determined random number, a stop symbol, and the like directly related to the determination of the big ball Execute random number update processing to update (determined random number). Further, the effect control random number updated in step S104 is also updated.
Next, the process proceeds to step S152, where a winning switch input process for inputting a detection signal from the start winning opening switch 131 and checking a winning is executed, and a series of processes are terminated and the original process is restored.

Next, the random number update process in step S150 will be described.
FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the random number update process.
When the random number update process is executed in the CPU 220, as shown in FIG. 10, first, the process proceeds to step S172.
In step S172, the winning determination random number is updated, and the process proceeds to step S174, where it is determined whether the winning determination random number has reached a predetermined upper limit value (for example, 498), and it is determined that the predetermined upper limit value has been reached. If yes (Yes), the process moves to step S176, the initial value update random number for winning random number for updating the initial value of the winning random number is set as the winning random number, the series of processing is terminated and the original Return to processing.

On the other hand, when it is determined in step S174 that the winning random number does not reach the predetermined upper limit (No), the series of processes is terminated and the original process is restored.
Thus, since the initial value changes every time the winning random number makes a round, the winning random number cannot be easily predicted.
Although illustration is omitted, the process of updating the jackpot type determination random number, the stop symbol determination random number and other random numbers for controlling the play is similarly performed in this random number update process.

Next, the winning switch input process in step S152 will be described.
FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a winning switch input process.
When the winning switch input process is executed in step S152, the process first proceeds to step S200 as shown in FIG.
In step S200, an input port reading process for reading the detection signal from the start winning port switch 131 from a predetermined port of the input port 250 corresponding to the start winning port switch 131 is executed, and the process proceeds to step S202. Based on the processing result, it is determined whether or not a detection signal is input from the start winning a prize opening switch 131. When it is determined that a detection signal is input (Yes), the process proceeds to step S204.
In step S204, it is determined whether or not the number of winning game balls to the start winning device 111 is “4” or more, and when it is determined that the number of winning game balls is less than “4” (No), step S206. Then, “1” is added to the number of winning game balls, and the process proceeds to step S208.

In step S208, the winning determination random number, the jackpot type determining random number and the stop symbol determining random number are acquired from the corresponding random number counter, and the process proceeds to step S210, and the acquired random number values are stored in the RAM 240 corresponding to the number of winning game balls. Each is stored in the area, a series of processing is terminated, and the original processing is restored. In step S210, for example, when the number of winning game balls is “1”, each acquired random number value is stored in the first area of the RAM 240 for storing random number values. Similarly, when the number of winning game balls is “2”, each acquired random number value is stored in the second area for storing random number values.
On the other hand, when it is determined in step S204 that the number of winning game balls is “4” or more (Yes), or when it is determined in step S202 that a detection signal is not input from the start winning port switch 131 (No). Also, the series of processing is terminated and the original processing is restored.

Next, the jackpot determination process in step S108 will be described. In addition, description is abbreviate | omitted about the determination process of the normal symbol display apparatus 108. FIG.
FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the jackpot determination process.
The jackpot determination process sets a single jackpot value in a predetermined numerical range (for example, “0” to “398”) in order to cause a special prize state with a predetermined probability (for example, 1/399), and starts a winning prize. A process for obtaining a winning random number from a random number counter at a winning timing when a game ball is won by the device 111 and causing a special prize state when the acquired random number value matches the jackpot value, which is executed in step S108. Then, as shown in FIG. 12, first, the process proceeds to step S300.

In step S300, the effect symbol display device 104 determines whether or not the effect symbol is changing. When it is determined that the effect symbol is not changing (No), the process proceeds to step S302, and the number of winning game balls is “ It is determined whether or not it is 1 ”or more, and when it is determined that the number of winning game balls is“ 1 ”or more (Yes), the process proceeds to step S306.
In step S306, a winning random number is read from a predetermined area of the RAM 240 corresponding to the number of winning game balls, and the process proceeds to step S308 to determine whether or not the read random number value matches the jackpot value. When it is determined that it has been done (Yes), the process proceeds to step S310.

  In step S310, a jackpot type determination process for determining a jackpot type is executed. In the jackpot type determination process, a jackpot type determination table in which a plurality of hit type numbers are registered is set, the jackpot type determination random number is read from a predetermined area of the RAM 240 corresponding to the number of winning game balls, and the order of the read random number values The jackpot type is determined by reading the hit type number from the hit type determination table. As a result, the normal jackpot, probability variation 1 jackpot, probability variation 2 jackpot, and probability variation 3 jackpot are determined.

  Next, the process proceeds to step S312, and a hit stop symbol determination process for determining a combination of a special symbol and an effect symbol to be stopped at the big hit or the small hit is executed. In the hit stop symbol determination process, for example, a stop symbol determination table in which a plurality of stop symbol numbers indicating combinations of stop symbols of effect symbols is registered is set in the ROM 230 for each hit type number, and determined in steps S310 and S328. Alternatively, the stop symbol determination table corresponding to the set hit type number is read. Then, the stop symbol determination random number is read from a predetermined area of the RAM 240 corresponding to the number of winning game balls, the stop symbol number of the order of the read random number is read from the stop symbol determination table, and the stop symbol designation is performed based on the read stop symbol number The command (first control command) is stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 240. Thereby, in the port output process of step S118, a stop symbol designation command is transmitted to the effect control device 150 via the output port 255.

  The combination of the stop symbols of the special symbol is determined by the same process as that for the production symbol based on a special symbol determination table in which a plurality of numerical values on the left side of the specific symbol and a numerical value on the right side of the special symbol are associated with each other. However, the special symbol is determined prior to determining the effect symbol. That is, after determining the special symbol, the effect symbol is determined corresponding to this. Therefore, the combination of stop symbols is determined based on the same stop symbol determination random number value. For special symbols, command information for designating a combination of stop symbols of special symbols is stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 240. Thereby, in the port output process of step S118, the command information is directly transmitted to the special symbol display device 106 via the output port 255.

  Next, the process proceeds to step S314, and a hit hour variation pattern determination process for determining a variation pattern of the effect symbol to be displayed in a variable manner at the time of big hit or small hit is executed. In the hit variation pattern determination process, the reach determination random number is acquired from the random number counter, and corresponds to the current gaming state, the hit type number determined or set in steps S310 and S328, the number of winning game balls, and the acquired reach determination random number The variation pattern determination table 440 to be read is read out. Then, the variation pattern determination random number is acquired from the random number counter, the variation pattern number of the order of the acquired random number value is read from the variation pattern determination table 440, and the variation pattern command corresponding to the read variation pattern number is stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 240. To do. Thereby, in the port output process of step S118, the variation pattern command (first control command) is transmitted to the effect control device 150 via the output port 255.

Next, the process proceeds to step S316, and in the case of a big win or a small win, the number of times and the opening time of the big winning opening 115 are set. Specifically, when the hit type number is “0” or “1”, the maximum round continuation number is set to the number of opening times, and the opening time of the special winning opening 115 is set to about 30 seconds. When the win type numbers are “2” to “4”, the maximum round continuation count is set to the number of open times, and the open time of the special winning opening 115 is set to about 0.5 seconds. In addition, regardless of the big hit, the small hit, and the loss, the variation time of the production symbol is set. The variation time of the effect symbol is determined based on the variation pattern number determined in steps S314 and S326.
Next, the process proceeds to step S318, and a symbol variation start process is executed in which a control command for starting variation of the effect symbol is stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 240 in the effect symbol display device 104, and the process proceeds to step S320 to receive a prize. “1” is subtracted from the number of game balls, a series of processing is terminated, and the original processing is restored.

  On the other hand, when it is determined in step S308 that the read random number value does not match the jackpot value (No), the process proceeds to step S322, and the random value read in step S306 matches the preset jackpot value. If it is determined whether or not they match (No), the process proceeds to step S324. In steps S308 and S322, determination of big hit and determination of small hit are performed with one random number. For example, when the value of the winning random number is “7”, it is determined as a big hit, and when it is “11”, it is determined as a small hit. As a result, the data capacity can be reduced and the random number update process can be simplified as compared with the case where separate random numbers are provided.

  In step S324, a stoppage stop time symbol determination process for determining a combination of effect symbols to be stopped at the time of disconnection is executed. The off-time stop symbol determination process is configured in the same manner as in step S312. By this determination, it is not a command for designating only a result indicating that the winning lottery result is out of place, rather than designating a specific combination of outlier production symbols displayed on the production symbol display device 104. An effect symbol designation command is output to the symbol control device 152 via the effect control device 150. When the offending effect design designation command is input, the symbol control device 152 determines a combination of effect symbols to be out of play, and displays the contents on the effect symbol display device 104.

  Next, the process proceeds to step S326, and a variation pattern determination process at the time of detachment is performed to determine a variation pattern of the effect symbol that is variably displayed at the time of the separation. The deviation variation pattern determination process is configured in the same manner as in step S314. However, the variation pattern determination table 440 reads the one corresponding to the current game state, the number of winning game balls and the reach determination random number. When the process of step S326 ends, the process proceeds to step S316.

  On the other hand, when it is determined in step S322 that the read random number value matches the small hit value (Yes), the process proceeds to step S328, and the hit type number is set to “4” indicating the small hit value. The process proceeds to step S312. That is, at the time of determining the small hit, the hit type number “4”, which is a fixed value set in advance, is set without reading the big hit type determining random number stored in the predetermined area of the RAM 240 corresponding to the number of winning game balls. .

On the other hand, when it is determined in step S302 that the number of winning game balls is “0” (No), and in step S300, when it is determined that the effect symbol is changing in the effect symbol display device 104 (Yes). In either case, the process proceeds to step S330.
In step S330, it is determined whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the change of the effect symbol. When it is determined that the predetermined time has elapsed (Yes), the process proceeds to step S332 and a symbol stop command is issued. A symbol stop process stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 240 is executed, a series of processes are terminated, and the original process is restored.
On the other hand, when it is determined in step S330 that the predetermined time has not elapsed since the start of the change in the effect design (No), the series of processes is terminated and the original process is restored.

Next, processing executed by the effect control device 150 will be described.
The CPU of the effect control device 150 activates a control program stored in a predetermined area of the ROM, and executes the effect control process shown in the flowchart of FIG.
FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing the effect control process.
When the effect control process is executed by the CPU of the effect control device 150, as shown in FIG. 13, first, the process proceeds to step S400.
In step S400, the effect control device 150 executes a change waiting process for waiting for a change in the effect symbol, and the process proceeds to step S402.

  In step S402, the effect control device 150 executes a variation pattern command reception process for receiving a variation pattern command, and proceeds to step S404. In the variation pattern command reception process, the effect control device 150 receives the variation pattern command from the main control device 210, generates a liquid crystal display control command (second control command) according to the received variation pattern command, and the symbol control device. 152. Then, the symbol control device 152 that has received the liquid crystal display control command causes the effect symbol display device 104 to start the variable display of the effect symbols.

In step S404, the effect control device 150 executes a stop symbol designation command receiving process for receiving a stop symbol designation command, and proceeds to step S406. In the stop symbol designation command receiving process, the effect control device 150 receives a stop symbol designation command from the main control device 210 and transmits the received stop symbol designation command to the symbol control device 152.
In step S406, the effect control device 150 executes a symbol stop command reception process for receiving a symbol stop command, and proceeds to step S408. In the symbol stop command reception process, the effect control device 150 receives a symbol stop command from the main control device 210 and transmits the received symbol stop command to the symbol control device 152. Then, the symbol control device 152 that has received the symbol stop command causes the effect symbol display apparatus 104 to stop display the effect symbol.

In step S408, the production control device 150 executes notification means control processing for determining whether to activate the notification means 120, and proceeds to step S410.
In step S410, the effect control device 150 executes an effect start command receiving process for receiving an effect start command, and proceeds to step S400. In the effect start command receiving process, the effect control device 150 receives an effect start command from the main control device 210 and executes a jackpot effect according to the received effect start command.

Next, the stop symbol designation command receiving process in step S404 will be described in detail.
FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing stop symbol designation command reception processing.
When the stop symbol designation command receiving process is executed in step S404, the process first proceeds to step S500 as shown in FIG.
In step S500, it is determined whether or not a stop symbol designation command has been received from main controller 210. When it is determined that a stop symbol designation command has been received (Yes), the process proceeds to step S502. When it is (No), it waits in step S500 until a stop symbol designation command is received.

In step S502, the received stop symbol designation command is transmitted to the symbol control device 152, and the process proceeds to step S504, where it is determined whether or not the time symbol symbol is designated by the received stop symbol designation command, and the time symbol symbol is designated. When it is determined that the game state is determined (Yes), the process proceeds to step S506, where “low probability” information is set in the state transition preparation flag for storing the gaming state to be transferred next time, and the process proceeds to step S508.
On the other hand, when it is determined in step S504 that the time symbol is not designated (No), the process proceeds to step S508.

In step S508, it is determined whether or not the probability variation 1 symbol, the probability variation 2 symbol or the probability variation 3 symbol is designated by the received symbol designation command, and it is determined that the probability variation 1 symbol, the probability variation 2 symbol or the probability variation 3 symbol is designated. If yes (Yes), the process proceeds to step S510, "high probability" information is set in the state transition preparation flag, and the process proceeds to step S512.
On the other hand, when it is determined in step S508 that the probability variation 1 symbol, the probability variation 2 symbol, or the probability variation 3 symbol is not designated (No), the process proceeds to step S512.

In step S512, it is determined whether or not a small hit symbol or off-stage effect symbol is specified by the received stop symbol designation command, and when it is determined that a small hit symbol or off-phase symbol design is specified (Yes), The process proceeds to step S514, where the contents of the current game state flag are set in the state transition preparation flag, a series of processes are terminated, and the original process is restored.
On the other hand, when it is determined in step S512 that the small winning symbol or the off-stage design is not designated (No), the series of processes is terminated and the original process is returned.

FIG. 15 is a diagram showing the contents of the state transition preparation flag.
As shown in FIG. 15, the state transition preparation flag is set according to the contents of the current game state flag and the contents of the stop symbol designation command.
When the content of the stop symbol designation command is a probability variation 1 symbol, a probability variation 2 symbol, or a probability variation 3 symbol, “high probability” information is set in the state transition flag regardless of the current gaming state flag content.
When the content of the stop symbol designation command is a time-short symbol, “low probability” is set in the state transition flag regardless of the current game state flag content.
When the content of the stop symbol designating command is a small hit symbol or an offense effect symbol, the content of the current gaming state flag is set as the state transition flag as it is.

Next, the notification means control process in step S408 will be described.
FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing the notification unit control process.
When the notification means control process is executed in step S408, the process first proceeds to step S600 as shown in FIG.
In step S600, it is determined whether or not “high probability” information is set in the state transition preparation flag. If it is determined that “high probability” information is set in the state transition preparation flag (Yes), step S600 is performed. The process proceeds to S602.
In step S602, a first notification lottery process for determining whether or not to activate the notification unit 120 is executed, and the process proceeds to step S604. Specifically, based on the reception of the symbol stop command, a random number is extracted from a predetermined area, and it is determined whether or not to activate the notification unit 120 with reference to the high probability table.

On the other hand, when it is determined in step S600 that the “high probability” information is not set in the state transition preparation flag (No), the process proceeds to step S606. Here, the case where it is determined that “high probability” information is not set in the state transition preparation flag means that “low probability” information is set in the state transition preparation flag.
In step S606, a second notification lottery process for determining whether or not to activate the notification unit 120 is executed, and the process proceeds to step S604. Specifically, based on the reception of the symbol stop command, a random number is extracted from a predetermined region, and it is determined whether or not to activate the notification unit 120 with reference to the low probability table.

In step S604, it is determined whether or not the notification unit 120 is to be operated based on the lottery results of steps S602 and S606, and when it is determined that the notification unit 120 is to be operated (Yes), the process proceeds to step S608. An operation signal is transmitted to the means 120, a series of processing is ended, and the original processing is restored.
And the alerting | reporting means 120 will operate | move for a predetermined time, if the operation signal from the notification control part 168 of the production | presentation control apparatus 150 is received, while light-emitting the character designed on the surface, and rock | fluctuates in the front-back direction with a predetermined pattern. In this case, the notification unit 120 operates for a predetermined time when the effect symbol display device 104 is displaying the effect symbol stop.

On the other hand, when it determines with not making the alerting | reporting means 120 operate | moved by step S604 (No), a series of processes are complete | finished and it returns to the original process.
Here, the probability determined to activate the notification unit 120 in the first notification lottery process in step S602 is compared with the probability determined to operate the notification unit 120 in the second notification lottery process in step S606. Is set to a high probability. For example, in this embodiment, the probability that the notification unit 120 is determined to be activated in the first notification lottery process in step S602 is halved, and the notification unit 120 is activated in the second notification lottery process in step S606. Is set to 1/8.
In addition, the notification control part 168 of the production | presentation control apparatus 150 performs the process of step S600-S608.

Next, the operation of the pachinko machine according to the present embodiment will be described.
First, when the power is turned on to the pachinko machine, the main control device 210 executes a game control process and enters a game-ready state. A player can play a game by loading the rented game ball into a pachinko machine and operating the launch handle to launch the game ball onto the game board surface 102.
In a game-ready state, when a game ball launched on the game board surface 102 wins the start winning device 111, a detection signal is output by the start winning port switch 131. In main controller 210, when a detection signal is input from start winning port switch 131, a winning random number is acquired at almost the same timing. At this time, if it is determined that the acquired random number value matches the jackpot value, it is a jackpot.

  When the jackpot is reached, through steps S310 to S314, the jackpot type, the combination of the special symbol and the stop symbol of the effect symbol, and the variation pattern at the jackpot are determined. Then, the effect symbols are variably displayed in a predetermined variation pattern, and after a predetermined variation time has elapsed, the determined combination is stopped. After the production symbol is stopped, one of the normal jackpot, the probability variation 1 jackpot, the probability variation 2 jackpot, and the probability variation 3 jackpot occurs.

On the other hand, if it is determined that the acquired random number value does not match the jackpot value but matches the jackpot value, it is a jackpot.
When a small hit is made, a combination of a special symbol and a stop symbol of the effect symbol and a variation pattern at the time of the small hit are determined through steps S328, S312, and S314. Then, the effect symbols are variably displayed in a predetermined variation pattern, and after a predetermined variation time has elapsed, the determined combination is stopped. After the production symbol stops, a small hit occurs.

During the big hit or the small hit, the big winning opening 115 is controlled to be opened with a predetermined opening / closing pattern, and when a game ball wins the big winning opening 115, a predetermined number of winning balls are paid out per winning.
On the other hand, if it is determined that the acquired random number value does not match the jackpot value and the jackpot value, they are out of sync.
When it comes off, the combination of the special symbol and the stop symbol of the effect symbol and the variation pattern at the time of loss are determined through steps S324 and S326. Then, the effect symbols are variably displayed in a predetermined variation pattern, and after a predetermined variation time has elapsed, the determined combination is stopped.

Next, the operation when notifying the player of the result of the big hit lottery by the main controller 210 will be described in detail.
When main controller 210 determines that one of big hit, small hit and out of place will be generated by jackpot lottery, the stop symbol designation command and the fluctuation pattern command are changed in order to fluctuate the production symbols and stop them in a specific combination. It transmits to the production control device 150.
When receiving the stop symbol designation command, the production control device 150 analyzes the received stop symbol designation command through steps S500 to S514, and as shown in FIG. 15, the content of the game state flag and the content of the stop symbol designation command The state transition preparation flag is set according to Thereby, the gaming state to be transferred next time is updated. In this case, the gaming state means a probability variation state or a low probability state.

Main controller 210 transmits a symbol stop command to effect controller 150 in order to stop the effect symbol. In addition, main controller 210 transmits an effect start command to effect control device 150 following the symbol stop command in order to start a big win or small win effect.
When receiving the symbol stop command, the effect control device 150 causes the effect symbol display device 104 to stop display the effect symbol, and notifies the player of the result of the big hit lottery by the effect symbol that is stopped and displayed. In addition, when receiving the effect start command, the effect control device 150 analyzes the received effect start command, and executes the big hit or the small hit effect according to the current gaming state and the type of the effect start command.

Further, the notification control unit 168 of the effect control device 150 determines whether or not the notification unit 120 is to be operated through steps S600 to S608. Then, when it is determined that the notification unit 120 is to be operated, the effect control device 150 transmits an operation signal to the notification unit 120.
And the alerting | reporting means 120 will operate | move for a predetermined time, if the operation signal from the notification control part 168 of the production | presentation control apparatus 150 is received, while light-emitting the character designed on the surface, and rock | fluctuates in the front-back direction with a predetermined pattern. In this case, the notification means 120 operates for a predetermined time when the effect symbol is stopped in the effect symbol display device 104.

  Here, when the “high probability” information is set in the state transition flag, the effect control device 150 determines whether or not to activate the notification unit 120 by the first notification lottery process, and sets the state transition flag. When the “low probability” information is set, it is determined whether or not the notification unit 120 is operated by the second notification lottery process. And the probability determined to operate the notification means 120 in the first notification lottery process is set to a higher probability than the probability determined to operate the notification means 120 in the second notification lottery process. Yes.

That is, the probability that the production control device 150 activates the notification means 120 is that the next jackpot lottery by the main control device 210 is set when the winning probability of the next jackpot lottery by the main control device 210 is set to a high probability. The winning probability is set to a higher probability than when the probability is set to a low probability (normal probability).
Thereby, in the pachinko machine according to the present embodiment, during the period in which the gaming state is set to the probability variation state, the notification means has a higher probability than in the period in which the gaming state is set to the probability variation state. 120 is activated.
Therefore, according to the pachinko machine according to the present embodiment, the winning probability of the next jackpot lottery by the main control device 210 can be suggested to the player through the notification means 120, and by letting the player predict the winning probability, It becomes possible to improve the taste of the game.

  Further, the notification unit 120 operates when the effect symbol is stopped on the effect symbol display device 104. That is, in the pachinko machine according to the present embodiment, an effect that suggests the winning probability of the next jackpot lottery by the main control device 210 (operation of the notification means 120) and an effect by the effect symbol displayed on the effect symbol display device 104, It is executed at different timings. Therefore, according to the pachinko machine according to the present embodiment, it is possible to accurately transmit to the player an effect that suggests the winning probability of the next jackpot lottery by the main controller 210.

Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
The pachinko machine according to the second embodiment of the present invention has the same basic configuration as the pachinko machine according to the first embodiment.
In the pachinko machine according to the second embodiment of the present invention, the effect control process executed by the effect control device 150 is different from the effect control process executed by the effect control device 150 according to the first embodiment.
The CPU of the effect control device 150 according to the second embodiment activates a control program stored in a predetermined area of the ROM, and executes the effect control process shown in the flowchart of FIG.
FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing the effect control process.
When the effect control process is executed by the CPU of the effect control device 150, the process first proceeds to step S700 as shown in FIG.

In step S700, the effect control device 150 executes a change waiting process for waiting for a change in the effect symbol, and proceeds to step S702. The change waiting process in step S700 is the same as the change wait process in step S400 shown in FIG.
In step S702, the effect control device 150 executes a variation pattern command reception process for receiving a variation pattern command, and the process proceeds to step S704. The variation pattern command reception process in step S702 is the same as the variation pattern command reception process in step S402 shown in FIG.

In step S704, the effect control device 150 executes a stop symbol designation command receiving process for receiving a stop symbol designation command, and proceeds to step S706. The stop symbol designation command reception process in step S704 is the same as the stop symbol designation command reception process in step S404 shown in FIG.
In step S706, the production control device 150 executes an expectation notification process for notifying an expectation that a big hit will occur in the current big win lottery by the main control device 210, and the process proceeds to step S708.
In step S708, the effect control device 150 executes symbol stop command reception processing for receiving a symbol stop command, and the process proceeds to step S710. The symbol stop command reception process in step S708 is the same as the symbol stop command reception process in step S406 shown in FIG.

In step S710, the production control device 150 executes notification means control processing for determining whether or not to activate the notification means 120, and proceeds to step S712. The notification means control process in step S710 is the same as the notification means control process in step S408 shown in FIG.
In step S712, the effect control device 150 executes an effect start command receiving process for receiving an effect start command, and proceeds to step S700. The effect start command receiving process in step S712 is the same as the effect start command receiving process in step S410 shown in FIG.

Next, the expectation degree notification process in step S706 will be described.
FIG. 18 is a flowchart illustrating the expectation degree notification process.
The expectation level notification process is a notification means 120 with a probability corresponding to the level of expectation that a jackpot will be generated in the current jackpot lottery by the main control device 210 when the effect symbol display device 104 is performing a variation display of the effect symbol. Is a process for notifying the degree of expectation that a big jackpot will occur in the current big jackpot lottery by the main control device 210. Here, the current lottery by the main control device 210 means a jackpot lottery that triggered the change display of the effect symbol performed in the effect symbol display device 104.

When the expectation degree notification process is executed, as shown in FIG. 18, first, the process proceeds to step S800.
In step S800, the production control device 150 determines whether or not a jackpot is generated by analyzing the stop symbol designation command received from the main control device 210, and determines that the jackpot is generated (Yes). Moves to step S802. In this case, when the time symbol, the probability variation 1 symbol, the probability variation 2 symbol, or the probability variation 3 symbol is designated by the stop symbol designation command received from the main control device 210, the effect control device 150 generates a jackpot. judge. On the other hand, the notification control unit 168 determines that the big hit is not caused when the small hit symbol or the off-stage effect symbol is specified by the stop symbol specifying command received from the main control device 210.

On the other hand, when it is determined in step S800 that no jackpot is generated (No), the process proceeds to step S804.
In step S802, the production control device 150 executes a first expectation degree notification lottery process for determining whether or not to activate the notification unit 120, and proceeds to step S806. Specifically, a random number is extracted from a predetermined area based on the reception of the stop symbol designation command, and it is determined whether or not to activate the notification means 120 with reference to the jackpot hour table.

In step S804, the effect control device 150 executes a second expectation degree notification lottery process for determining whether to activate the notification unit 120, and proceeds to step S806. Specifically, a random number is extracted from a predetermined area based on reception of the stop symbol designation command, and it is determined whether or not to activate the notification means 120 with reference to the table for small hit or miss.
In step S806, it is determined whether or not the notification unit 120 is to be operated based on the lottery results in steps S802 and S804. When it is determined that the notification unit 120 is to be operated (Yes), the process proceeds to step S808 to notify An operation signal is transmitted to the means 120, a series of processing is ended, and the original processing is restored.

On the other hand, when it is determined in step S806 that the notifying unit 120 is not to be operated (No), the series of processes is terminated and the process returns to the original process.
Here, the probability that the notification means 120 is determined to be activated in the first expectation degree notification lottery process is higher than the probability that the notification means 120 is determined to be activated in the second expectation degree notification lottery process. Set to probability. For example, in this embodiment, it is determined that the probability of determining that the notification unit 120 is activated in the first expectation degree notification lottery process is 1/3, and that the notification unit 120 is activated in the second expectation degree notification lottery process. Is set to 1/10.

As a result, in the pachinko machine according to the present embodiment, when the main control device 210 has determined to generate a jackpot, the main control device 210 has determined not to generate a jackpot. Therefore, the notification means 120 operates with a high probability.
And the alerting | reporting means 120 will operate | move for a predetermined time, if the operation signal from the notification control part 168 of the production | presentation control apparatus 150 is received, while light-emitting the character designed on the surface, and rock | fluctuates in the front-back direction with a predetermined pattern. In this case, the notification unit 120 operates for a predetermined period of time when the effect symbol display device 104 is performing the effect symbol variation display.

Therefore, according to the pachinko machine according to the present embodiment, the degree of expectation of jackpot can be suggested to the player through the notification means 120, and the game taste can be improved.
In addition, the notification control unit 168 causes the notification means 120 to perform an effect suggesting the winning probability of the next lottery by the main control device 210 when the effect symbol display device 104 is displaying the stop of the effect symbol, When the effect symbol display device 104 is performing the variation display of the effect symbol, the notification means 120 performs an effect suggesting the degree of expectation that the main control device 210 is determined to cause a big hit in the current big hit lottery. Make it.

That is, in the pachinko machine according to the present embodiment, an effect that suggests the winning probability of the next jackpot lottery by the main control device 210 and an expectation level that is determined to cause a jackpot in the current jackpot lottery by the main control device 210 are determined. The suggested performance is executed at different timings.
As a result, according to the pachinko machine according to the present embodiment, it is determined that the main control device 210 generates the jackpot in the presentation that suggests the winning probability of the next big hit lottery and the current big hit lottery by the main control device 210. An effect that suggests the degree of expectation can be accurately transmitted to the player by one notification means 120.

Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
The pachinko machine according to the third embodiment of the present invention has the same basic configuration as the pachinko machine according to the first embodiment.
In the pachinko machine according to the third embodiment of the present invention, the effect control process executed by the effect control device 150 is different from the effect control process executed by the effect control device 150 according to the first embodiment.
The CPU of the effect control device 150 according to the third embodiment activates a control program stored in a predetermined area of the ROM, and executes the effect control process shown in the flowchart of FIG.
FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing the effect control process.
When the effect control process is executed by the CPU of the effect control device 150, as shown in FIG. 19, first, the process proceeds to step S900.

In step S900, the effect control device 150 executes a change waiting process for waiting for a change in the effect symbol, and proceeds to step S902. The change waiting process in step S900 is the same as the change wait process in step S400 shown in FIG.
In step S902, the effect control device 150 executes a variation pattern command reception process for receiving a variation pattern command, and the process proceeds to step S904. The variation pattern command reception process in step S902 is the same as the variation pattern command reception process in step S402 shown in FIG.

In step S904, the effect control device 150 executes a stop symbol designation command receiving process for receiving a stop symbol designation command, and proceeds to step S906. The stop symbol designation command reception process in step S904 is the same as the stop symbol designation command reception process in step S404 shown in FIG.
In step S906, the effect control device 150 executes a probability change notification process and proceeds to step S908.
In step S908, the production control device 150 executes a symbol stop command receiving process for receiving a symbol stop command, and proceeds to step S910. The symbol stop command reception process in step S908 is the same as the symbol stop command reception process in step S406 shown in FIG.

In step S910, the production control device 150 executes notification means control processing for determining whether or not to activate the notification means 120, and proceeds to step S912.
In step S912, the effect control device 150 executes an effect start command receiving process for receiving an effect start command, and proceeds to step S900. The effect start command receiving process in step S912 is the same as the effect start command receiving process in step S410 shown in FIG.

Next, the probability change notification process in step S906 will be described.
FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing the probability change notification process.
The probability change notification process is a predetermined probability (the first probability) when “high probability” information is set in the state transition flag (when the winning probability of the next jackpot lottery by the main controller 210 is set to a high probability). (First probability according to the third invention) means a process of displaying that the probability symbol is in the effect symbol display device (first notification means according to the third invention) 104.
Here, in this embodiment, in the jackpot type determination process of step S310 shown in FIG. 12, when the main control device 210 determines to cause the probability variation 1 jackpot or the probability variation 2 jackpot, the effect symbol display device 104 The fact that the probability fluctuation state occurs is displayed. On the other hand, in the jackpot type determination process of step S310 shown in FIG. 12, when the main control device 210 determines to cause the probability variation 3 jackpot, a probability variation state to the effect symbol display device 104 occurs. Does not display.

When the probability change notification process is executed by the CPU of the effect control device 150, first, as shown in FIG. 20, the process proceeds to step S1000.
In step S1000, the production control device 150 determines whether or not the probability variation 1 symbol or the probability variation 2 symbol is designated by the stop symbol designation command received from the main control device 210, and the probability variation 1 symbol or the probability variation 2 symbol is designated. When it is determined that it is (Yes), the process proceeds to step S1002.

On the other hand, when it is determined in step S1000 that the probability variation 1 symbol or the probability variation 2 symbol is not designated (No), the series of processes is terminated and the original process is restored.
In step S1002, the effect control device 150 executes the probability change notification effect, ends a series of processes, and returns to the original process. Here, the probability change notification effect refers to an effect that displays on the effect symbol display device 104 that the probability variation state is present. In this case, the probability change notification effect is executed for a predetermined time when the effect symbol display device 104 is performing a variation display of the effect symbol.

In the present embodiment, when the production control device 150 causes the probability variation 3 jackpot to occur, if the time variation is not activated after completion of the probability variation 3 jackpot, the special mode rendering is predetermined on the performance symbol display device 104. Display period. The effect control device 150 also displays the special mode effect on the effect symbol display device 104 for a predetermined period even when the short hit is generated and the short time non-actuated state is reached after the end of the small hit. Here, as described above, the probability variation 3 symbol displayed on the effect symbol display device 104 when the probability variation 3 big hits are generated and the small winning symbol displayed on the effect symbol display device 104 when the small hits are generated are , Can not be distinguished from each other. Further, when the probability variation 3 big hit is caused and when the small win is caused, a common special mode effect is displayed on the effect symbol display device 104. Further, when it is determined that the three probable big hits are to be generated, the effect symbol display device 104 is not displayed that the probability variation state is to occur. Therefore, the player cannot distinguish between the probability variation 3 big hits and the small wins. Therefore, the player cannot recognize the generated game state, but can play the game with expectation because there is a possibility that the player has shifted to the probability variation state.
Note that the special mode effect is ended until either the big win or the small win is won or the special symbol variation number reaches a predetermined number (for example, 20 times).

Next, the notification means control process in step S910 will be described.
FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing the notification unit control process.
When the notification means control process is executed in step S910, the process first proceeds to step S1100 as shown in FIG.
In step S1100, the effect control device 150 determines whether or not the probability change notification effect of step S1002 shown in FIG. 20 has been executed. When it is determined that the probability change notification effect has been executed (Yes), the series of processing ends. To return to the original process.
On the other hand, when it is determined in step S1100 that the probability change notification effect is not executed (No), the process proceeds to step S1102.

In step S1102, it is determined whether or not “high probability” information is set in the state transition preparation flag. If it is determined that “high probability” information is set in the state transition preparation flag (Yes), step S1102 is performed. The process moves to S1104.
In step S1104, a first notification lottery process for determining whether or not to activate the notification unit 120 is executed, and the process proceeds to step S1106. Specifically, based on the reception of the symbol stop command, a random number is extracted from a predetermined area, and it is determined whether or not to activate the notification unit 120 with reference to the high probability table.

On the other hand, when it is determined in step S1102 that “high probability” information is not set in the state transition preparation flag (No), the process proceeds to step S1108. Here, the case where it is determined that “high probability” information is not set in the state transition preparation flag means that “low probability” information is set in the state transition preparation flag.
In step S1108, a second notification lottery process for determining whether or not to activate the notification unit 120 is executed, and the process proceeds to step S1106. Specifically, based on the reception of the symbol stop command, a random number is extracted from a predetermined region, and it is determined whether or not to activate the notification unit 120 with reference to the low probability table.

In step S1106, it is determined whether or not the notification unit 120 is to be operated based on the lottery results of steps S1104 and S1108. If it is determined that the notification unit 120 is to be operated (Yes), the process proceeds to step S1110 and notification is performed. An operation signal is transmitted to the means 120, a series of processing is ended, and the original processing is restored.
And the alerting | reporting means 120 will operate | move for a predetermined time, if the operation signal from the notification control part 168 of the production | presentation control apparatus 150 is received, while light-emitting the character designed on the surface, and rock | fluctuates in the front-back direction with a predetermined pattern. In this case, the notification unit 120 operates for a predetermined time when the effect symbol display device 104 is displaying the effect symbol stop.

On the other hand, when it is determined in step S1106 that the notification unit 120 is not to be operated (No), the series of processes is terminated and the original process is restored.
Here, the probability (second probability according to the third invention) determined to activate the notification means 120 in the first notification lottery process in step S1104 is the notification means in the second notification lottery process in step S1108. It is set to a high probability compared with the probability (second probability according to the third invention) determined to activate 120. For example, in this embodiment, the probability that the notification unit 120 is determined to be activated in the first notification lottery process in step S602 is halved, and the notification unit 120 is activated in the second notification lottery process in step S606. Is set to 1/8.
In addition, the notification control part 168 of the production | presentation control apparatus 150 performs the process of step S1100-S1110.

  Therefore, according to the pachinko machine according to the present embodiment, when the probability change notification effect is executed (when the first notification means is activated), the winning probability of the next big hit lottery by the main controller 210 is high. The player is informed that it is set. On the other hand, even when the probability change notification effect is not executed, the notification means 120 is operated with a predetermined probability, so that the winning probability of the next big hit lottery by the main controller 210 is suggested to the player. Therefore, according to the gaming machine according to the third invention, it is possible to improve the taste of the game.

  Further, in the gaming machine according to the present embodiment, the effect symbol display device 104 that notifies that the winning probability of the next jackpot lottery by the main control device 210 is set to a high probability, and the next jackpot by the main control device 210. By providing the notification means 120 that suggests the winning probability of the lottery separately, it is possible to accurately convey to the player the effect that suggests the winning probability of the next jackpot lottery by the main controller 210 through the notification means 104. It becomes.

  Furthermore, in the gaming machine according to the present embodiment, when the effect symbol display device 104 is displaying the stop of the effect symbol, the notification means 120 provides an effect suggesting the winning probability of the next lottery by the main controller 210. When the effect symbol display device 104 is performing a variation display of the effect symbol, the probability change notification effect for notifying that the winning probability of the next jackpot lottery by the main control device 210 is set to a high probability is provided. The effect is displayed on the effect symbol display device 104. That is, in the pachinko machine according to the present embodiment, the effect that suggests the winning probability of the next jackpot lottery by the main controller 210 and that the winning probability of the next jackpot lottery by the main controller 210 is set to a high probability. The effects to be notified are executed at different timings. Thereby, according to the pachinko machine according to the present embodiment, it is possible to more accurately transmit to the player an effect that suggests the winning probability of the next big hit lottery by the main controller 210.

As mentioned above, although each embodiment of the present invention was described, in the above-mentioned each embodiment, various changes are possible.
For example, in the above embodiment, the game state to be transferred next time is determined based on the stop symbol designation command. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the variation pattern command also corresponds to the hit type. Based on the command, the game state to be transferred next time may be determined.

  In the above embodiment, the effect control device 150 is configured to manage the game state based on the effect control command from the main control device 210 and to perform the effect control based on the managed game state. Not limited to this, the symbol control device 152 may be configured to perform similar management and control. Specifically, the symbol control device 152 manages the gaming state based on the effect control command from the main control device 210, and controls the display of the symbol based on the managed gaming state.

  Further, in the above embodiment, the case where the game control program stored in advance in the ROM 230 is executed in the execution of the game control process shown in the flowcharts of FIGS. 8 to 12 has been described. The program may be read from the storage medium storing the program showing these procedures into the RAM 240 and executed. The same applies to the processing shown in the flowcharts of FIGS. 13 and 14 and FIGS.

Here, the storage medium is a semiconductor storage medium such as RAM or ROM, a magnetic storage type storage medium such as FD or HD, an optical reading type storage medium such as CD, CDV, LD, or DVD, or a magnetic storage type such as MO. / Optical reading type storage media, including any storage media that can be read by a computer, regardless of electronic, magnetic, optical, or other reading methods.
In the above embodiment, the case where the present invention is applied to a gaming machine that is a pachinko machine has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and other gaming machines such as an amusement game machine may be used without departing from the gist of the present invention. Is also applicable.

104 effect symbol display device 106 special symbol display device 108 normal symbol display device 109 gaming state display device 111 start winning device 111a first starting winning port 111b second starting winning port 115 large winning port 120 notifying means 131 starting winning port switch 150 effect Control device 152 Symbol control device 153 Lamp 155 Speaker 168 Notification control unit 200 Game control device 210 Main control device 212 Power supply circuit 220 CPU 230 ROM
240 RAM 250 Input port 255 Output port 440 Fluctuation pattern determination table

Claims (1)

A lottery means for performing a lottery to determine whether or not to cause a special prize state, with the winning of a game ball at the start winning opening,
In response to the winning of a game ball at the start winning opening, the symbol is displayed in a variable manner, the symbol is displayed after the symbol is changed, and the result of the lottery by the lottery means is displayed by the player in accordance with the symbol that has been stopped. Design variation means to notify to,
A probability setting means for setting a normal probability or a high probability as a winning probability for causing a lottery special prize state by the lottery means;
A gaming machine comprising
A notification means for performing a first notification indicating the winning probability of the lottery by the lottery means set by the probability setting means and a second notification indicating the result of the lottery by the lottery means;
The notification means executes the first notification when the symbol stop display is performed, and executes the second notification when the symbol variation display is performed. To play.

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