JP2015166003A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine capable of reducing a processing load of drawing control processing of a performance image.SOLUTION: When drawing a plurality of image data including specific image data, the game machine draws image data in a frame buffer by excluding image data with order of priority lower than that of the specific image data and, when the specific image data are not included in the image data drawn in the frame buffer, draws performance symbols with the order of priority higher than that of the specific image data on a display part in a first display mode and, when the specific image data are included in the image data drawn in the frame buffer, displays the performance symbols on the display part in a second display mode.

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine.

  Conventionally, in a gaming machine that uses a game ball to play a game, when the game ball enters (wins) at the start opening, the special symbol display device starts to display the variation of the special symbol, and a predetermined special symbol (big win symbol) When it is stopped and displayed, the special game (big hit) is controlled. In the special game, a prize ball corresponding to the game ball won in the opened big prize opening is paid out to the player.

  In addition, the gaming machine displays various effect images on the liquid crystal display device in accordance with the change display of the special symbol in the special symbol display device in order to increase the expectation of the player for the special game.

  Among such gaming machines, there is one that provides a player with a variety of effects by displaying an effect image formed by superimposing a plurality of images on a liquid crystal display device.

  For example, when the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1 generates an image by superimposing a plurality of images, the image of the layer of interest is the original clear image, and the images of the other layers are blurred and superimposed. It is.

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2011-156066

  Among the effect images formed by superimposing such a plurality of images, there are some images that are hidden by the predetermined image and are not displayed. However, in the conventional gaming machine, since drawing is performed for such an image that is not displayed, a large processing load is imposed on the drawing control process.

  Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine capable of reducing the processing load of the rendering control process for effect images.

  In order to achieve the above object, the invention according to claim 1 executes a variable display of a symbol, and can execute a special game when the result of the variable display becomes a special result. A gaming machine that displays rendered image data as an effect image on a display unit, and includes a drawing control unit that performs control for rendering the image data in the display storage area, and a plurality of types that determine an effect using the effect image Storage means for storing the effect information, effect information determining means for determining a plurality of effect information from the plurality of types of effect information stored in the storage means, and the plurality determined by the effect information determining means Based on the effect information determined by the effect information determination means and the determining means for determining whether or not the specific effect information is included in the effect information, the drawing control means Drawing content information generating means for generating drawing content information for determining the drawing content to be drawn, and the priority of drawing the image data in the display storage area is specified in the plurality of types of effect information. Effect information of an effect symbol that is set higher than the effect information and is variably displayed on the display unit corresponding to the variable display of the symbol is included, and the drawing control means is generated by the drawing content information generating means The image data is drawn in the display storage area on the basis of the drawn drawing content information, and the drawing content information generating means is selected from the plurality of pieces of effect information determined by the effect information determining means by the determining means. If it is determined that the specific effect information is not included in the image, the drawing content information is generated based on the plurality of effect information, while the determination means When it is determined that the specific effect information is included in the plurality of effect information determined by the effect information determining means, the specific effect information among the plurality of effect information. The drawing content information is generated based on the effect information excluding the effect information having a priority lower than the priority order, and the effect symbol is generated from the effect information not including the specific effect information. When the image data is drawn in the display storage area based on the content information, the drawing content generated from the presentation information including the specific presentation information while being displayed in the first display mode on the display unit When the image data is drawn in the display storage area based on the information, the image data is displayed on the display unit in a second display mode different from the first display mode.

  In order to achieve the above object, the invention according to claim 2 executes a variable display of a symbol, and can execute a special game when the result of the variable display becomes a special result. A gaming machine that displays rendered image data as an effect image on a display unit, and includes a drawing control unit that performs control for rendering the image data in the display storage area, and a plurality of types that determine an effect using the effect image Storage means for storing the effect information, effect information determining means for determining a plurality of effect information from the plurality of types of effect information stored in the storage means, and the plurality determined by the effect information determining means Based on the effect information determined by the effect information determination means and the determining means for determining whether or not the specific effect information is included in the effect information, the drawing control means Drawing content information generating means for generating drawing content information for determining the drawing content to be drawn, and the priority of drawing the image data in the display storage area is specified in the plurality of types of effect information. Effect information of an effect symbol that is set higher than the effect information and is variably displayed on the display unit corresponding to the variable display of the symbol is included, and the drawing control means is generated by the drawing content information generating means The image data is drawn in the display storage area on the basis of the drawn drawing content information, and the drawing content information generating means is selected from the plurality of pieces of effect information determined by the effect information determining means by the determining means. If it is determined that the specific effect information is not included in the image, the drawing content information is generated based on the plurality of effect information, while the determination means When it is determined that the specific effect information is included in the plurality of effect information determined by the effect information determining means, the specific effect information among the plurality of effect information. The drawing content information is generated based on the effect information excluding the effect information having a priority lower than the priority order, and the effect symbol is generated from the effect information not including the specific effect information. When the image data is drawn in the display storage area based on the content information, the drawing content generated from the presentation information including the specific presentation information while being displayed in a predetermined display mode on the display unit When the image data is drawn in the display storage area based on the information, display in the predetermined display mode on the display unit is restricted.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to reduce the processing load of the rendering control process of the effect image.

It is a front view of the gaming machine in the present embodiment. It is a perspective view of the state which opened the glass frame provided in the front of the game machine in this embodiment. It is a perspective view of the back side of the gaming machine in the present embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the whole structure of the game machine in this Embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the determination table which performs the hit | judging determination for every special symbol and normal symbol performed in the game machine in this Embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the symbol determination table which determines the stop symbol of the special symbol in the gaming machine in this Embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the big hit game end setting data table for determining the game state after the big hit game performed with the game machine in this Embodiment is complete | finished. It is a figure which shows an example of the special electric accessory operating mode determination table for determining a big prize opening opening mode table. It is a figure which shows the structure of the special prize opening release mode determination table determined using the special electric accessory act | operation mode determination table. It is a figure which shows the fluctuation pattern determination table which determines the fluctuation pattern of a special symbol. It is a figure which shows an example of the effect pattern determination table for determining the variation aspect of the effect symbol displayed in a liquid crystal display device. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the frame buffer used in the image control board of the game machine in this Embodiment. It is a figure which shows the example of the animation information used in the image control board of the game machine in this Embodiment. It is a figure which extracts and shows the frame image which comprises an animation image. It is a figure which shows the example (1) of the image of each layer which comprises a frame image. It is a figure which shows the example (2) of the image of each layer which comprises a frame image. It is a figure which shows the example (1) of a display list. It is a figure which shows the example (2) of a display list. It is a flowchart which shows the detailed flow of the main process performed with the main control board of the game machine in this Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the detailed flow of the timer interruption process performed with the main control board of the game machine in this Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the detailed flow of the special figure special electricity control process performed with the main control board of the game machine in this Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the detailed flow of the special symbol memory | storage determination process performed with the main control board of the game machine in this Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the detailed flow of the main process performed with the presentation control board of the game machine in this Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the detailed flow of the timer interruption process performed with the presentation control board of the game machine in this Embodiment. It is a 1st flowchart which shows the detailed flow of the command analysis process performed with the presentation control board of the game machine in this Embodiment. It is a 2nd flowchart which shows the continuation of the 1st flowchart which shows the detailed flow of the command analysis process performed with the presentation control board of the gaming machine in this Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the detailed flow of the control processing performed in the liquid crystal control CPU of the game machine in this Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the detailed flow of the interruption process performed in the liquid crystal control CPU of the game machine in this Embodiment.

  Hereinafter, an embodiment of the gaming machine of the present invention (hereinafter also referred to as “the present embodiment”) will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a front view illustrating an example of a device configuration of the gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a state in which a glass frame provided on the front surface of the gaming machine 1 in the present embodiment is opened. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the back side of the gaming machine 1 in the present embodiment. FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing the overall configuration of the gaming machine 1 in the present embodiment.

  The gaming machine 1 includes an outer frame 60 attached to an island facility of a game store, and a glass frame 50 that is rotatably supported by the outer frame 60 (see FIGS. 1 and 2). In addition, the outer frame 60 is provided with a game board 2 in which a game area 6 in which the game ball 200 flows down is formed. In the glass frame 50, an operation handle 3 for launching a game ball toward the game area 6 by being rotated, an audio output device 32 including a speaker, an effect lighting device 34 having a plurality of lamps, An effect button 35 for changing the effect mode by pressing operation and a cross key 36 capable of pressing operation in at least two directions (usually four directions) are provided.

  Further, the glass frame 50 is provided with a tray 40 for storing a plurality of game balls 200, and the tray 40 has a downward slope so that the game balls flow down toward the operation handle 3. (See FIG. 2). A receiving opening for receiving a game ball is provided at the end of the downward slope of the tray 40, and the game ball received in the receiving opening is driven by the ball feed solenoid 4b, so that the glass frame 50 One game ball is sent to the ball feed opening 41 provided on the back surface one by one.

  Then, the game ball sent out to the ball feed opening 41 is guided to the end of the downward slope of the launch rail 42 by the launch rail 42 having a downward slope toward the launching member 4c. A stopper 43 for stopping and stopping the game ball is provided above the end of the firing rail 42 that is inclined downward, and the game ball sent out from the ball feed opening 41 is the end of the downward inclination of the launch rail 42. One game ball is stopped at the section (see FIG. 2).

  Then, when the player rotates the operation handle 3, the launch volume 3b directly connected to the operation handle 3 also rotates, and the launch intensity of the game ball is adjusted by the launch volume 3b, and the launch is performed with the adjusted launch intensity. The launch member 4c directly connected to the solenoid 4a for rotation rotates. As the launch member 4c rotates, the launch ball 4c launches the game ball stored at the end of the downward slope of the launch rail 42, and the game ball is launched into the game area 6.

  When the game ball fired as described above rises between the rails 5a and 5b from the launch rail 42 and exceeds the ball return prevention piece 5c, the game ball reaches the game area 6 and then freely falls within the game area 6. . At this time, the game ball falls unpredictably by a plurality of nails and windmills provided in the game area 6.

  The game area 6 is provided with a plurality of general winning awards 12.

  Each of these general winning ports 12 is provided with a general winning port detecting switch 12a. When the general winning port detecting switch 12a detects a winning of a game ball, a predetermined winning ball (for example, ten game balls) is provided. To be paid out.

  Further, in the area below the center of the game area 6, there are a first start port 14 and a second start port 15 that constitute a start area into which game balls can enter, and a second large area in which game balls can enter. A winning opening 17 is provided.

  The second start port 15 includes a pair of second start port movable pieces 15b, and the pair of second start port movable pieces 15b is maintained in a closed state. The pair of second start opening movable pieces 15b are controlled to move to the “second mode” in which the pair is opened.

  At this time, when the second start port 15 is controlled to the second mode, the pair of second start port movable pieces 15b function as a tray, and a game ball wins the second start port 15. It becomes easy. That is, when the second start port 15 is in the first mode, there is no game ball winning opportunity, and when it is in the second mode, the game ball winning opportunity is increased as compared to the first mode.

  Here, the first start port 14 is provided with a first start port detection switch 14a for detecting the entrance of a game ball, and the second start port 15 is provided with a second start port detection switch for detecting the entrance of a game ball. 15a is provided. When the first start port detection switch 14a or the second start port detection switch 15a detects the entry of a game ball, a special symbol determination random number value is acquired, and a right acquisition lottery (to be described later) Hereinafter, “Lottery for jackpot” is performed.

  In addition, when the first start port detection switch 14a or the second start port detection switch 15a detects the entry of a game ball, the predetermined start port detection switch 12a has a predetermined value in the same manner as when the general winning port detection switch 12a detects the winning of a game ball. Prize balls (for example, three game balls) are paid out.

  In addition, the second grand prize winning port 17 is configured by an opening formed in the game board 2.

  A movable piece 17b for the second big prize opening is provided at the right end of the second big prize opening 17, and the second big prize prize is moved by moving one of the movable pieces 17b for the second big prize opening as a fulcrum. An open state that makes it easy to win the mouth 17 and a closed state that cannot win a prize are controlled.

  When the movable piece 17b for the second big prize opening is opened, the movable piece 17b for the second big prize opening functions as a tray for guiding the game ball into the second big prize opening 17, and the game ball is the second. It is possible to enter the big winning opening 17. The second big prize opening 17 is provided with a second big prize opening detection switch 17a. When the second big prize opening detection switch 17a detects the entry of a game ball, a predetermined prize ball ( For example, 15 game balls) are paid out.

  Furthermore, a normal symbol gate 13 constituting a normal area through which game balls can pass is provided in the right and left areas of the game area 6, and a game ball is inserted in the right area of the game area 6. A first grand prize winning opening 16 capable of balling is provided.

  For this reason, if the operation handle 3 is greatly rotated and the game ball is not launched with a greater force than the game ball is launched into the left area of the game area 6, the game ball passes or wins in the first big prize opening 16. It is configured not to.

  Even when the short game state described later is entered, if the game ball does not pass through the normal symbol gate 13, the pair of second starter movable pieces 15b in the second starter port 15 are not opened, and the second starter It becomes difficult for the game ball to win the mouth 15.

The normal symbol gate 13 is provided with a gate detection switch 13a for detecting the passage of the game ball. When the gate detection switch 13a detects the passage of the game ball, the normal symbol determination random number value is acquired, which will be described later. “Normal lottery” is performed.
The first grand prize opening 16 is normally kept closed by the first big prize opening opening / closing door 16b, and it is impossible to enter a game ball. In contrast, when a special game, which will be described later, is started, the first grand prize opening opening / closing door 16b is opened, and the first big prize opening opening / closing door 16b puts the game ball in the first big winning opening 16; It functions as a receiving tray that guides the game ball and can enter the first grand prize opening 16. The first grand prize opening 16 is provided with a first big prize opening detection switch 16a. When the first big prize opening detection switch 16a detects the entry of a game ball, a predetermined prize ball (for example, 15 Game balls).

  Further, in the lowermost area of the game area 6 and the lowermost area of the game area 6, the general winning opening 12, the first starting opening 14, the second starting opening 15, the first major winning opening 16, and the second large winning opening. An out port 11 is provided for discharging game balls that have not entered any of the winning ports 17.

  In addition, a decoration member 7 that affects the flow of the game ball is provided in the center of the game area 6. A liquid crystal display device 31 composed of an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) or the like is provided at a substantially central portion of the decoration member 7, and an effect driving device 33 is provided above the liquid crystal display device 31. ing.

  The liquid crystal display device 31 displays a demonstration image during standby when no effects are being performed, or displays an image according to the progress of the game. Among them, three effect symbols 38 for informing a lottery lottery result to be described later are displayed, and a combination of specific effect symbols 38 (for example, 777) is stopped and displayed as a result of the jackpot lottery. A big hit is announced.

  More specifically, when a game ball enters the first start port 14 or the second start port 15, the three effect symbols 38 are displayed in a variable manner by scroll display (rotation display), and a predetermined time has elapsed. Later, the scrolling is stopped, and the effect design 38 is stopped and displayed. Further, by displaying an effect image composed of characters or the like to be displayed during the effect display during the effect symbol 38 display, it is possible to give the player a high expectation that the player may win a jackpot. Yes.

  The effect driving device 33 gives a player a sense of expectation by an operation mode using the effect image.

  The effect driving device 33 can move in the vertical direction (of course, not limited to the vertical direction but can be moved in the vertical and horizontal directions), and moves in the vertical direction to the front side of the liquid crystal display device 31. It will be. In addition, the effect driving device 33 is equipped with an effect lighting device 34 and lights up in conjunction with the movement of the effect driving device 33 or independently.

  Furthermore, in addition to the above-described various production devices, the audio output device 32 outputs BGM (background music), SE (sound effects), etc., and produces productions using sound. The illumination direction and the emission color of the light are changed to produce effects by illumination, and are provided at a plurality of positions.

  In the lower right of the game area 6, a first special symbol display device 20, a second special symbol display device 21, a normal symbol display device 22, a first special symbol hold indicator 23, a second special symbol hold indicator 24, a normal A symbol hold indicator 25 is provided.

  The first special symbol display device 20 informs the result of the jackpot lottery performed when a game ball has entered the first start port 14, and is a plurality of lighting composed of LEDs or the like. It is comprised by the member. One or more predetermined lighting members blink according to the result of the lottery lottery, and the lighting members in the blinking state are lit simultaneously with the stop display of the effect symbol 38.

  The first special symbol display device 20 can also be configured by a 7-segment LED. That is, a plurality of special symbols corresponding to the jackpot lottery result are provided, and the lottery result is notified to the player by displaying the special symbol corresponding to the jackpot lottery result on the first special symbol display device 20. I am doing so. For example, “7” is displayed when the jackpot is won, and “−” is displayed when the player wins. “7” and “−” displayed in this way are special symbols, but these special symbols are not displayed immediately, but are displayed in a stopped state after being displayed for a predetermined time. .

  Here, the “successful lottery” means that when a game ball enters the first starting port 14 or the second starting port 15, a special symbol determining random number value is acquired, and the acquired special symbol determining random value is acquired. Is a random number value corresponding to “big hit” or a random number value corresponding to “small hit”. The jackpot lottery result is not immediately notified to the player, and the first special symbol display device 20 displays a variation such as blinking of the special symbol, and when the predetermined variation time has passed, the jackpot lottery result The special symbol corresponding to is stopped and displayed so that the player is notified of the lottery result.

  The second special symbol display device 21 is for notifying a lottery result of a jackpot that is performed when a game ball enters the second start port 15, and the display mode is the above-described first display mode. This is the same as the special symbol display mode in the special symbol display device 20.

  In the present embodiment, “big hit” means the right to execute a big hit game in the big win lottery performed on the condition that a game ball has entered the first start port 14 or the second start port 15. Say that you have won. In the “hit game”, a round game in which the first big prize opening 16 or the second big prize opening 17 is opened is performed a predetermined number of times (for example, 15 times). A predetermined time is set for the maximum opening time of the first grand prize port 16 or the second grand prize port 17 in each round game, and during this time, the first grand prize port 16 or the second grand prize port 17 is set. When a predetermined number of game balls (for example, nine) enter, one round game is completed.

  In other words, the “big hit game” is a game in which a game ball can enter the first grand prize winning opening 16 or the second big winning prize opening 17 and the player can acquire a winning ball according to the winning prize.

  The normal symbol display device 22 is for notifying the lottery result of the normal symbol that is performed when the game ball passes through the normal symbol gate 13. As will be described in detail later, when the winning symbol is won by the normal symbol lottery, the normal symbol display device 22 is turned on, and then the second start port 15 is controlled to the second mode for a predetermined time.

  Here, “normal symbol lottery” means that when a game ball passes through the normal symbol gate 13, the normal symbol determination random number value is acquired, and the acquired normal symbol determination random value corresponds to “winning”. This is a process for determining whether or not a random value. The lottery result of the normal symbol is not always notified immediately after the game ball passes through the normal symbol gate 13, but the normal symbol display device 22 displays a variation such as blinking of the normal symbol. When the fluctuation time elapses, the normal symbol corresponding to the lottery result of the normal symbol is stopped and displayed so that the player is notified of the lottery result.

  Furthermore, if a game ball enters the first start port 14 or the second start port 15 during special symbol fluctuation display or a special game to be described later, and if a big win lottery cannot be performed immediately, a certain condition The right to win a jackpot will be withheld.

  More specifically, the random number value for special symbol determination acquired when the game ball enters the first start port 14 is stored as the first hold, and when the game ball enters the second start port 15 The acquired special symbol determination random number value is stored as the second hold.

  For both of these holds (first hold and second hold), the upper limit hold number is set to four, and the hold numbers are respectively set to the first special symbol hold indicator 23 and the second special symbol hold indicator 24. Is displayed.

  When there is one first hold, the leftmost LED of the first special symbol hold indicator 23 lights up, and when there are two first holds, the leftmost end of the first special symbol hold indicator 23 The two LEDs turn on. When there are three first holds, three LEDs blink from the leftmost end of the first special symbol hold indicator 23 and the right LED is lit. When there are four first holds, the first Four LEDs blink from the leftmost end of the special symbol hold indicator 23.

  The second special symbol hold indicator 24 also displays the number of second hold on hold in the same manner as described above.

  The upper limit reserved number of normal symbols is also set to four, and the reserved number of normal symbols is displayed in the same manner as the first special symbol hold indicator 23 and the second special symbol hold indicator 24. Displayed on the instrument 25.

  The glass frame 50 supports a glass plate 52 that covers the game area 6 so as to be visible in front of the game board 2 (player side). The glass plate 52 is detachably fixed to the glass frame 50.

  The glass frame 50 is connected to the outer frame 60 via a hinge mechanism 51 on one end side in the left-right direction (for example, the left side facing the gaming machine 1). The end side (for example, the right side facing the gaming machine 1) can be rotated in a direction to release from the outer frame 60. The glass frame 50 covers the game board 2 together with the glass plate 52, and can be opened like a door with the hinge mechanism 51 as a fulcrum to open the inner part of the outer frame 60 including the game board 2.

  On the other end side of the glass frame 50, a lock mechanism for fixing the other end side of the glass frame 50 to the outer frame 60 is provided. The fixing by the lock mechanism can be released by a dedicated key. The glass frame 50 is also provided with a door opening switch 133 that detects whether or not the glass frame 50 is opened from the outer frame 60.

  On the back surface of the gaming machine 1, as shown in FIG. 3, a main control board 110, an effect control board 120, a payout control board 130, a power supply board 170, a game information output terminal board 30, and the like are provided. The power supply board 170 is provided with a power plug 171 for supplying power to the gaming machine 1 and a power switch (not shown).

  Next, control means for controlling the progress of the game will be described using the block diagram of the entire gaming machine 1 in FIG.

  The main control board 110 is a main control means for controlling the basic operation of the game, and receives various detection signals from the first start port detection switch 14a, etc., and the first special symbol display device 20 and the first big winning port opening / closing solenoid. The game is controlled by driving 16c and the like.

  The main control board 110 includes at least a one-chip microcomputer 110m including a main CPU 110a, a main ROM 110b, and a main RAM 110c, an input port for main control, and an output port (not shown).

  The main control input port includes a payout control board 130, a general winning port detection switch 12a for detecting that a game ball has entered the general winning port 12, and a game ball having entered the normal symbol gate 13. Gate detection switch 13a to detect, first start port detection switch 14a to detect that a game ball has entered the first start port 14, and second start to detect that a game ball has entered the second start port 15 The mouth detection switch 15a, the first grand prize opening detection switch 16a that detects that a game ball has entered the first grand prize opening 16, and the second that detects that a game ball has entered the second grand prize opening 17 A big prize opening detection switch 17a is connected. Various signals are input to the main control board 110 through the main control input port.

  The output port for main control includes a payout control board 130, a start port opening / closing solenoid 15c for opening / closing the pair of second start port movable pieces 15b of the second start port 15, and a first big prize opening opening / closing door 16b. The first large winning opening / closing solenoid 16c for operating the second large winning opening / closing solenoid 17c for operating the movable piece 17b for the second large winning opening, the first special symbol display device 20 for displaying special symbols, and the second special symbol. Display device 21, normal symbol display device 22 for displaying normal symbols, first special symbol hold indicator 23 and second special symbol hold indicator 24 for displaying the number of reserved symbols for special symbols, and the number of reserved balls for normal symbols The normal symbol hold display 25 and the game information output terminal board 30 for outputting an external information signal are connected. Various signals are output from the main control output port.

  The main CPU 110a reads out a program stored in the main ROM 110b based on an input signal from each detection switch or timer, performs arithmetic processing, directly controls each device or display, or determines the result of the arithmetic processing. In response, a command is transmitted to another board.

  The main CPU 110a can perform a jackpot lottery on the holding ball before the lottery processing on the holding ball and pre-acquire (pre-read) the lottery result. At this time, the pre-acquired lottery result is produced. The image is sent to the image control board 150 via the control board 120.

  The main ROM 110b of the main control board 110 stores a game control program and data and tables necessary for determining various games. For example, (1) a jackpot determination table referred to in the jackpot lottery, (2) a hit determination table referred to in the normal symbol lottery, (3) a symbol determination table for determining a special symbol stop symbol, and (4) a jackpot end Big hit game end setting data table for determining the subsequent gaming state, (5) Special electric accessory actuating mode determination table for determining the opening / closing conditions of the opening / closing doors of the first big winning opening 16 and the second big winning opening 17 , (6) a big prize opening opening mode table for designating an opening mode of the first big winning opening 16 and the second big winning opening 17, (6) a variation pattern determining table for determining a variation pattern of special symbols, and the like. Yes.

  Note that the above-described table is merely an example of characteristic tables among the tables in the present embodiment, and a number of other tables and programs (not shown) are provided for the progress of the game. It has been.

  Next, details of various tables stored in the main ROM 110b of the main control board 110 will be described with reference to FIGS.

  FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a determination table for performing a hit determination for each special symbol and normal symbol performed in the gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment.

  FIG. 5 (a-1) and FIG. 5 (a-2) are diagrams showing a jackpot determination table used for the “big winner lottery”.

  FIG. 5A-1 is a jackpot determination table (a jackpot determination table for the first special symbol display device) referred to in the first special symbol display device 20, and FIG. It is a jackpot determination table (a jackpot determination table for the second special symbol display device) referred to in the special symbol display device 21. In the tables of FIG. 5 (a-1) and FIG. 5 (a-2), although the winning probabilities for small hits are different, the jackpot probabilities are the same.

  Specifically, the big hit determination table is for determining “big hit”, “small hit”, or “losing” based on the current probability gaming state and the acquired random numbers for determining special symbols.

  For example, according to the jackpot determination table for the first special symbol display device shown in FIG. 5 (a-1), in the low probability gaming state, all the special symbol determinations “7” and “8” are performed. On the other hand, when the random number value is determined to be a jackpot, all the 20 special symbol determination random numbers “7” to “26” are determined to be a jackpot when the gaming state is a high probability game state.

  Further, according to the jackpot determination table for the first special symbol display device shown in FIG. 5 (a-1), the special symbol determination for either the low probability gaming state or the high probability gaming state. When the random number values are all four special symbol determination random values of “50”, “100”, “150”, and “200”, it is determined as “small hit”. Although not shown, when the random number is other than the special symbol determination random number shown above, it is determined as “lost”.

  Accordingly, since the random number range of the special symbol determination random number value is “0” to “598”, the probability of being determined as “big hit” in the low-probability gaming state is “1 / 299.5” and high The probability of being determined as “big hit” in the probability gaming state is “1 / 29.9”, which is approximately 10 times.

  Further, in the first special symbol display device 20, the probability of being determined as “small hit” is “1 / 149.75” regardless of whether the gaming state is the low probability gaming state or the high probability gaming state.

  Next, FIG. 5B is a diagram showing a hit determination table used for “ordinary symbol lottery”.

  Specifically, the winning determination table is for determining “winning” or “losing” based on the presence / absence of the short-time gaming state and the acquired random number for normal symbol determination.

  For example, according to the hit determination table shown in FIG. 5B, in the non-short-time gaming state, one normal symbol determination random value of “0” is determined to be a win, while in the short-time gaming state. In some cases, it is determined that all 65535 normal symbol determining random numbers from “0” to “65534” are hits. Although not shown, if the random number is other than the normal symbol determining random number shown above, it is determined as “lost”.

  Accordingly, since the random number range of the normal symbol determination random number value is “0” to “65535”, the probability of being determined as “winning” in the non-time saving gaming state is “1/65536”, and the time saving gaming state The probability of being determined as “winning” at the time of is “65535/65536”.

  FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a symbol determination table for determining a special symbol stop symbol.

  FIG. 6A is a symbol determination table that is referred to in order to determine a stop symbol at the time of a big hit, and FIG. 6B is a symbol that is referred to in order to determine a stop symbol at the time of a big hit. FIG. 6C is a symbol determination table that is referred to in order to determine a symbol to be stopped when a loss occurs.

  Specifically, according to the symbol determination table shown in FIG. 6, a special ball display device type (a type of a start opening in which a game ball has won) and a game ball at the first start port 14 or the second start port 15. The special symbol type (stop symbol data) is determined based on the jackpot symbol random number value or the small bonus symbol random number value acquired when the ball is entered.

  For example, the first special symbol display device 20 refers to the symbol determination table shown in FIG. 6A in the case of “big hit”, and if the acquired big hit symbol random number value is “55”, the stopped symbol data As “03” (special symbol 3 (first probability variation 3)).

  Further, in the first special symbol display device 20, when “small hit”, the symbol determination table shown in FIG. 6B is referred to, and if the acquired random number value for small hit symbol is “50”, it is stopped. The symbol data is determined as “08” (special symbol B (small hit B)).

  In the case of “losing”, the symbol determination table shown in FIG. 6C is referred to, and “00” (special symbol 0 (losing)) is determined as stop symbol data. That is, in the case of “losing”, any random number value is determined as stop symbol data of “00”.

  Then, at the time of starting the change of the special symbol, an effect designating command is generated as special symbol information based on the determined special symbol type (stop symbol data). Here, the production symbol designation command is composed of data of “2 bytes” as a unit command, and includes “1 byte” of MODE data for identifying the control command and the contents of the control command to be executed. It consists of “1 byte” worth of DATA data. The same applies to a variation pattern designation command described later.

  As will be described later, the game state after the jackpot game (see FIG. 7) and the type of jackpot game (see FIG. 8) are determined by the type of special symbol (stop symbol data). It can be said that the type determines the gaming state after the jackpot game ends and the type of jackpot game.

  FIG. 7 is a jackpot game end setting data table for determining the gaming state after the jackpot game ends.

  Based on the special symbol type (stop symbol data) and the state stored in the game state buffer, the high probability game flag setting, the number of high probability games (X ), A short-time game flag, and a short-time count (J) are set.

  Here, the “gaming state buffer” is information indicating the gaming state at the time of winning the big hit. The gaming state includes a combination of a short-time gaming state (or a non-short-time gaming state) and a high probability gaming state (or low probability gaming state).

  Specifically, if the gaming state buffer is “00H”, it indicates the gaming state information of the low-probability gaming state and the non-short-time gaming state in which both the short-time gaming flag and the high-probability gaming flag are not set. If the gaming state buffer is “01H”, the short-time gaming flag is not set, but the high-probability gaming flag indicates gaming state information of the high-probability gaming state and the non-short-time gaming state that are set. If the gaming state buffer is “02H”, it indicates gaming state information of a low-probability gaming state and a short-time gaming state in which the short-time gaming flag is set but the high-probability gaming flag is not set. If the game state buffer is “03H”, it indicates the game state information of the high-probability gaming state and the short-time gaming state in which both the short-time gaming flag and the high-probability gaming flag are set.

  In the jackpot game end setting data table shown in FIG. 7, even if the type of the same special symbol, the setting of the short-time game flag and the number of short-time games (J) are made different based on the information stored in the game state buffer. Is possible.

  Specifically, when the type of the special symbol is special symbol 3 (corresponding to stop symbol data 03, first probability variation jackpot “3”), regarding the high probability game flag and the high probability game number (X), Regardless of the information stored in the state buffer, the high probability game flag is set after the jackpot game ends, and the high probability game count (X) is set to “10000 times”.

  On the other hand, regarding the short-time game flag and the short-time number of times (J), if information (“00H” or “01H”) indicating a game state in which the short-time game flag is not set is stored in the game state buffer, Does not set the short-time game flag, and sets the short-time number (J) to “0”. On the other hand, if information (“02H” or “03H”) indicating the gaming state in which the short-time gaming flag is set is stored in the gaming state buffer, the short-time gaming flag is set after the big hit game is finished. , The number of time reduction (J) is set to “10000 times”.

  Thereby, the number of time reductions (J) can be changed according to the gaming state at the time of winning the jackpot, and the player can be interested in the gaming state at the time of winning the jackpot.

  FIG. 8 is a special electric accessory actuating mode determination table for determining the special winning opening opening mode table.

  With reference to the special electric accessory operating mode determination table shown in FIG. 8, the special winning opening opening mode table is determined based on the type of special symbol (stop symbol data).

  As will be described later, since the jackpot game is executed on the basis of the big prize opening manner table, it can be said that the big prize opening manner table indicates the type of the big prize game.

  Further, the special electric accessory actuating mode determination table shown in FIG. 8 is characterized in that, in the second special symbol display device 21 that is actuated when a game ball enters the second starting port 15, the “short hit table” is used. "Is not determined.

  This is because, in the non-short-time gaming state, almost no gaming ball enters the second starting port 15, but “short hit” is determined when a gaming ball enters the second starting port 15. This is because even if the short-time gaming state is provided, the player's willingness to play may be reduced.

  In the present embodiment, the second special symbol display device 21 is configured not to determine the “short winning table”. Of course, the second special symbol display device 21 also determines the “short winning table”. You may comprise as follows. However, in the case of determining the “short hit table” in the second special symbol display device 21, compared with the first special symbol display device 20 that is activated when a game ball enters the first start port 14, By configuring the “short hit table” to be difficult to determine for the reasons described above, it is possible to prevent a decrease in game motivation.

  FIG. 9 is a view showing the configuration of the big prize opening opening mode table determined in FIG. 8, and the first big winning opening opening / closing door 16b or the movable piece for the second big winning opening is determined by this big winning opening opening mode table. The open / close condition of 17b is determined.

  FIG. 9A shows a jackpot opening style determination table group for jackpots that is referred to in the jackpot game, and is composed of a long winning table (TBL), a short winning table, and an advanced winning table.

  FIG. 9B shows a big winning opening releasing mode determination table group for small hits determined at the small hit game.

  Then, a long hit game is executed based on the long hit table, a short hit game is executed based on the short hit table, a development game as described later is executed based on the developed hit table, The small hit game is executed based on the winning opening opening mode determination table.

  In the big winning opening opening determination table for jackpot shown in FIG. 9 (a), the type of the big winning opening to be opened (the first big winning opening 16 or the second big winning opening 17) and the one big win game The maximum number of round games (R), the specified number indicating the maximum number of winnings in the big winning opening in one round, the start interval time from the start of the big hit game to the execution of the first round game, and in each round game Maximum number of times of opening of the grand prize opening (K), opening time of the big winning opening for one opening of each round game, and closing time of the big winning opening for one opening of each round game And the closing interval time of the big prize opening from the end of one round game to the execution of the next round game, and the end interval time from the end of the last round game to the end of the jackpot game Are 憶.

  On the other hand, in the large winning opening opening determination table for small hits shown in FIG. 9B, the type of the large winning opening to be opened (the first large winning opening 16 or the second large winning opening 17), The maximum number of times of opening (K) in a single small hit game, a specified number indicating the maximum number of winning points in a single winning game, and the first large winning opening is opened from the start of the small hit game Until the end of the small hit game from the end of the closing time of the last prize winning opening and the closing time of the last prize winning opening The interval time is stored.

  Here, according to the long winning table of the big winning prize opening opening determination table for jackpot shown in FIG. 9A, the first big winning opening opening / closing door 16b is operated, and the first winning prize opening / closing door 16b is located on the right side of the game area 6. The grand prize winning opening 16 can be opened up to a maximum of “approximately 29 seconds” per round.

  However, when the specified number (9) of game balls have won the first grand prize opening 16 before the opening time has passed “approximately 29 seconds”, the operation of the first grand prize opening opening / closing door 16b is terminated. The game for one round will end.

  Here, the short win table of the big winning prize opening manner determination table for jackpots shown in FIG. 9A and the big winning opening release mode determination table for small hits shown in FIG. 9B are the maximum number of round games ( R), the maximum number of times of opening (K), the closing interval time, and the closing time of the big winning opening at each opening number, there are data differences, but the same second big winning opening 17 performs the same opening / closing operation (second large) The winning opening 17 repeats “opening for 0.052 seconds” and closing for “2.0 seconds” for “15 times”), and the player is “short win game” or “small hit game” from the appearance. Cannot be determined.

  Thereby, it is possible to cause the player to guess whether the game is “short hit game” or “small hit game”.

  In this embodiment, the opening time in “short win game” and the opening time in “small hit game” are set to the same opening time (“0.052 seconds”), and the closing time in “short win game”. And the closing time in “small hit game” are set to the same closing time (“2 seconds”).

  Of course, the present invention is not limited to this, and a configuration in which a time difference that the player cannot discriminate between “short win game” and “small hit game” may be provided.

  In addition, the per-development table of the big winning prize opening mode determination table for jackpot shown in FIG. 9A is also the above-described short winning game and small winning game until the third big winning opening is opened (K = 3). The second grand prize opening 17 performs the same opening / closing operation (the second big prize opening 17 repeats an opening time of “0.052 seconds” and a closing time of “2.0 seconds”), and the player looks Therefore, it is not possible to determine whether the game is “game per development, game per short, or game per short”.

  However, from the opening of the fourth grand prize opening (maximum number of round games (R) = "2", maximum number of big winning openings (K) = "1"), the opening of the big prize opening for games per development The time becomes longer ("approximately 29 seconds"), and the game per development can be discriminated from the short win game and the small hit game.

  For this reason, a game that first causes the player to recognize that the game is a short hit game or a small hit game, and then causes the player to recognize that the game ball is a jackpot game that can be acquired (this game is referred to as “game per development”). It can be performed.

  In the present embodiment, until the opening of the big prize opening where the game per development becomes indistinguishable from the short win game and the small hit game, the opening time of the big prize opening of the game per development is reduced to the short win game and the small hit game. Set the same opening time (“0.052 seconds”) as the opening time of the big prize opening with the game, and close the closing time of the big winning opening for the game per development with the short winning game and the small win game Set to the same closing time as time ("2 seconds"). However, even if the game is not set at the same time, a difference in time in which the player cannot determine whether the game per development, the game per short hit, or the game per small hit may be provided.

  In addition, the short opening time (“0.052 seconds”) of “short win game” and “small hit game” and the short opening time (“0.052 seconds”) of the first half of “game per development” are as described above. Thus, even if the movable piece 17b for the second big prize opening is actuated, it is necessary to win the second big prize opening 17 because it is shorter than the time for which one game ball is fired ("approximately 0.6 seconds"). Is difficult.

  For this reason, it can be said that the opening mode of “short hit game” and “small hit game” and the opening mode of the first half of “game per development” are “unfavorable opening mode” for the player.

  On the other hand, the long release time of “game per long” (“approximately 29 seconds”) and the long release time of the latter half of “game per development” (“approximately 29 seconds”) are the time (one game ball is fired) ( It is longer than “approximately 0.6 seconds”), and can be said to be an “advantageous release mode” for the player.

  Further, according to the jackpot big winning opening opening determination table shown in FIG. 9A, the maximum number of round games (R) at the time of all jackpots regardless of the long win game, the short win game, or the development game. ) Is set to the same number of times. For this reason, there is no need to provide a display device for identifying the number of round games as in the prior art.

  FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a variation pattern determination table for determining a variation pattern of special symbols as will be described later.

  Specifically, according to the special symbol variation pattern determination table shown in FIG. 10, the special symbol display device that operates (the type of the starting opening that the game ball won), the jackpot determination result, the special symbol to stop, and the short-time gaming state Based on the presence / absence, the number of special symbol hold (U1 or U2), the reach determination random number value, and the special symbol variation random value, the variation pattern of the special symbol is determined.

  Then, based on the determined special symbol variation pattern, the special symbol variation time is determined, and the special symbol variation pattern designation command for transmitting the special symbol information to the effect control board 120 is specified. An example of this variation pattern designation command is shown in FIG.

  Therefore, it can be said that the “special symbol variation pattern” defines at least the jackpot determination result and the special symbol variation time. In addition, since a reach is always performed when a big hit or a small hit, the reach determination random number value is not referred to when a big hit or a small win. The reach determination random number value and the special figure variation random value are set to 100 random numbers (0 to 99).

  Here, the special symbol variation pattern designation command is composed of “1 byte” of MODE data for identifying the command classification and “1 byte” of DATA data indicating the content (function) of the command. Yes.

  When the MODE data is “E6H”, a special symbol variation pattern designation command (of the first special symbol display device 20) corresponding to the winning of the game ball at the first start port 14 is shown. "E7H" indicates a special symbol variation pattern designation command corresponding to the winning of a game ball in the second start port 15 (second special symbol display device 21).

  Further, the special symbol variation pattern determination table shown in FIG. 10 is set so that the variation time of the special symbol is shortened when the jackpot determination result is lost and the game is in the short-time gaming state. For example, when the jackpot determination result is a loss and the number of held balls is “2”, if the game is in the short-time game state, the variation time is “3000 ms” with a probability of “95%” based on the reach determination random value. Pattern “9” (shortening variation) is determined. On the other hand, when in the non-time saving gaming state, a variation pattern in which the variation time exceeds “3000 ms” is determined.

  In this manner, the variation time is set to be short when the time-saving gaming state is entered.

  The table as described above is stored in the main ROM 110b of the main control board 110.

  Subsequently, the main RAM 110c of the main control board 110 functions as a data work area during the arithmetic processing of the main CPU 110a and has a plurality of storage areas.

  As an example of the storage area at this time, for example, in the main RAM 110c, the normal symbol hold number (G) storage area, the normal symbol hold storage area, the normal symbol data storage area, the first special symbol hold number (U1) storage area, Second special symbol holding number (U2) storage area, first special symbol random value storage area, second special symbol random value storage area, round game number (R) storage area, number of times released (K) storage area, first large Number of balls (C) storage area, game state storage area (high probability game flag storage area and time-short game flag storage area), high probability game number (X) counter of the winning opening 16 and the second grand prize opening 17 Various timer counters are provided, such as a short time (J) counter, a game state buffer, a stop symbol data storage area, a transmission data storage area for effects, a special symbol time counter, and a special game timer counter. That. Note that the above-described storage area is merely an example, and many other storage areas are provided.

  The game information output terminal board 30 is a board for outputting an external information signal generated in the main control board 110 to a hall computer or the like of the game shop. The game information output terminal board 30 is connected to the main control board 110 by wiring, and is provided with a connector for connecting external information to a hall computer or the like of a game store.

  The power supply board 170 includes a backup power supply made of a capacitor, supplies a power supply voltage to the gaming machine 1, and monitors a power supply voltage supplied to the gaming machine 1, and when the power supply voltage becomes a predetermined value or less, An interruption detection signal is output to the main control board 110. More specifically, when the power interruption detection signal becomes high level, the main CPU 110a enters an operable state, and when the power interruption detection signal becomes low level, the main CPU 110a enters an operation stop state. The backup power source is not limited to a capacitor, and may be a battery, for example, or a capacitor and a battery may be used in combination.

  The effect control board 120 mainly controls each effect such as during a game or standby.

  The effect control board 120 includes a sub CPU 120a, a sub ROM 120b, and a sub RAM 120c, and is connected to the main control board 110 so as to be communicable in one direction from the main control board 110 to the effect control board 120. .

  The sub CPU 120a reads out a program stored in the sub ROM 120b based on a command transmitted from the main control board 110 or an input signal from the effect button detection switch 35a, the cross key detection switch 36a, and the timer, and performs arithmetic processing. And corresponding data (such as an effect pattern designation command described later) is transmitted to the lamp control board 140 and the image control board 150 based on the processing.

  The sub RAM 120c functions as a data work area during the arithmetic processing of the sub CPU 120a.

  For example, when the sub CPU 120a in the effect control board 120 receives the fluctuation pattern designation command indicating the fluctuation pattern of the special symbol from the main control board 110, the contents of the received fluctuation pattern designation command are analyzed, and the liquid crystal display device 31, the voice Data for causing the output device 32, the effect drive device 33, and the effect illumination device 34 to execute a predetermined effect (such as an effect pattern designation command described later) is specified. Then, the specified data (effect pattern designation command or the like) is transmitted to the image control board 150 or the lamp control board 140.

  FIG. 11 shows an example of a table used when an effect pattern designation command is specified based on the variation pattern designation command at this time.

  The sub ROM 120b of the effect control board 120 stores a program for effect control, data necessary for determining various games, and a table.

  For example, an effect pattern determination table for determining an effect pattern based on a variation pattern designation command received from the main control board 110, an effect symbol determination table for determining a combination of effect symbols 38 to be stopped and displayed, etc. are stored in the sub ROM 120b. It is remembered.

  In the production pattern determination table at this time, after the jackpot lottery is in the reach state, and the reach performance in the reach state suggests that the jackpot lottery result is “losing”, the revival and the jackpot lottery result is “ In addition to storing the effect pattern (revival jackpot effect pattern) for effecting “big hit”, the effect pattern for effecting switching the game state (game mode) is stored. Note that the above-described table is merely an example of characteristic tables among the tables in the present embodiment, and a number of other tables and programs (not shown) are provided for the progress of the game. It has been.

  The effect control board 120 creates an effect pattern designation command using an effect pattern determination table as shown in FIG. 11 and sends it to the lamp control board 140 and the image control board 150.

  The sub RAM 120c of the effect control board 120 functions as a data work area when the sub CPU 120a performs arithmetic processing, and has a plurality of storage areas.

  The sub RAM 120c is provided with a game state storage area, an effect mode storage area, an effect pattern storage area, an effect symbol storage area, and the like. Note that the above-described storage area is merely an example, and many other storage areas are provided.

  FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an effect pattern determination table for determining a variation mode of the effect symbol 38 displayed on the liquid crystal display device 31.

  The variation pattern designation command and the effect random number 1 (0 to 99) shown in FIG. 11 are information received from the main control board 110, and the sub CPU 120a determines the variation effect pattern based on this information. is there.

  In FIG. 11, even when the sub CPU 120a receives the variation pattern designation command of the same special symbol, the variation control pattern can be determined based on the random number value 1 for the effect. The number of special pattern variation pattern designation commands stored in the main control board 110 is reduced compared to the variation effect pattern stored in 120.

  As a result, the storage capacity of the main control board 110 can be reduced, and a variety of effects can be achieved.

  The “variation effect pattern” refers to a specific effect aspect in effect contents (the liquid crystal display device 31, the audio output device 32, the effect drive device 33, and the effect illumination device 34) performed during the change of the special symbol. . For example, in the liquid crystal display device 31, the background display mode, the character display mode, and the change mode of the effect design 38 displayed by the change effect pattern are determined.

  In addition, “reach” as used in the present embodiment is a state in which a part of the combination of the effect symbols 38 that informs the transition to the special game is stopped and the other effect symbols 38 are performing the variable display. Say. For example, when a combination of three effect symbols 38 of “777” is set as a combination of the effect symbols 38 informing that a transition to a jackpot game is made, the two effect symbols 38 are stopped and displayed at “7”. The state in which the remaining effect symbols 38 are variably displayed is called “reach”.

  In this way, when the sub CPU 120a determines the variation effect pattern based on the variation pattern designation command and the effect random number 1, the sub CPU 120a specifies the effect pattern designation command corresponding to the variation effect pattern and performs image control. The image is transmitted to the liquid crystal control CPU 150a which is an image drawing instruction unit of the substrate 150.

  Specifically, in the effect pattern designation command, “1 command” is composed of 2 bytes of data, and “1 byte” of MODE data for identifying the control command classification and the control command to be executed. It consists of “1 byte” of DATA data indicating the contents.

  Further, as the effect pattern designation command corresponding to the change effect pattern, “MODE” is set to “A1H” in the case of the change effect pattern based on the change pattern of the special symbol in the first special symbol display device 20, and the second special When the variation effect pattern is based on the variation pattern of the special symbol in the symbol display device 21, “MODE” is set as “B1H”, and “DATA” is set according to the identification number of the variation effect pattern.

  Although illustration is omitted, in addition to the effect pattern specifying command corresponding to the variable effect pattern, the MODE setting value is changed, and “effect pattern specifying command corresponding to the demo effect pattern (MODE = 01H)”, "Effect pattern designation command corresponding to hit start effect pattern (MODE = 0H)", "Effect pattern designation command corresponding to jackpot effect pattern (MODE = 03H)", "Effect pattern designation command corresponding to hit end effect pattern ( MODE = 04H) ”and the like, and the sub CPU 120a transmits the various effect pattern designation commands to the image control board 150.

  Subsequently, the payout control board 130 shown in FIG. 4 performs payout control of the game ball. The payout control board 130 includes a one-chip microcomputer including a payout CPU, a payout ROM, and a payout RAM (not shown), and is connected to the main control board 110 so as to be capable of bidirectional communication.

  The payout CPU reads out the program stored in the payout ROM based on the input signals from the payout ball count detection switch 132, the door opening switch 133, and the timer for detecting whether or not the game ball has been paid out, and performs arithmetic processing. At the same time, based on the processing, the corresponding data is transmitted to the main control board 110.

  Further, a payout motor 131 of a payout device for paying out a predetermined number of game balls from the game ball storage unit is connected to the output side of the payout control board 130. The payout CPU reads out a predetermined program from the payout ROM based on the payout number designation command transmitted from the main control board 110, performs arithmetic processing, and controls the payout motor 131 of the payout device to give a predetermined game ball. Pay out.

  At this time, the payout RAM functions as a data work area at the time of calculation processing of the payout CPU.

  The lamp control board 140 controls the lighting of the effect lighting device 34 provided on the game board 2 and controls the driving of the motor for changing the light irradiation direction. In addition, energization control is performed on a drive source such as a solenoid or a motor that operates the effect driving device 33. The lamp control board 140 is connected to the effect control board 120 and performs the above-described controls based on various commands transmitted from the effect control board 120.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 4, a firing control board 160 that inputs signals from the touch sensor 3a and the firing volume 3b and outputs signals to the firing solenoid 4a and the ball feed solenoid 4b is connected to the payout control board 130. ing. When the power is supplied from the power supply board 170 to the launch control board 160, the launch control of the game ball is performed.

  The image control board 150 is connected to the liquid crystal display device 31 and the audio output device 32. Based on various commands transmitted from the effect control board 120, image display control on the liquid crystal display device 31 and an audio output device are provided. The sound output control at 32 is performed.

  At this time, between the image control board 150 and the liquid crystal display device 31, there is provided a general-purpose board 39 having a bridge function for converting to a predetermined image format and outputting it when displaying image data.

  The general-purpose board 39 has a bridge function for converting to an image format corresponding to the performance of the liquid crystal display device 31 for displaying image data. For example, a 19-inch liquid crystal display screen of SXGA (1280 dots × 1080 dots) Is absorbed as a liquid crystal display device 31 and a resolution difference between a 17-inch liquid crystal display screen of XGA (1024 dots × 768 dots) as the liquid crystal display device 31 and the like.

  The image control board 150 performs a liquid crystal control CPU 150 a, a liquid crystal control RAM 150 b, a liquid crystal control ROM 150 c, a CGROM 151, a crystal oscillator 152, a VRAM 153, and the like in order to perform image display control of the effect image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 31. An image control unit (VDP (Video Display Processor)) 2000 (hereinafter referred to as “VDP2000”), which is a drawing control means for performing control of drawing image data in a frame buffer (to be described later) of the VRAM 153, and sound information from the audio output device 32. And a sound control circuit 3000 that performs control for outputting the sound.

The liquid crystal control CPU 150a is drawing content information that determines the drawing content to be drawn by the VDP 2000 based on the “effect pattern designation command” received from the effect control board 120, and includes a group of commands related to drawing (drawing control commands). Generate a display list. Then, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a transmits the generated display list to the VDP 2000. This display list is stored in the display list storage area 153a of the VRAM 153 via the CPU I / F (not shown) of the VDP2000.
The VDP 2000 performs drawing control on the image data stored in the CGROM 151 based on the display list transferred from the liquid crystal control CPU 150a, and outputs and displays the rendering-controlled effect image on the liquid crystal display device 31. This display list is generated for each frame using an animation pattern in animation information (effect information) described later.

  Further, upon receiving a V blank interrupt signal or a drawing end signal from the VDP 2000, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a appropriately performs an interrupt process.

  Further, the liquid crystal control CPU 150 a also instructs the sound control circuit 3000 to output predetermined sound data to the sound output device 32 based on the effect pattern designation command received from the effect control board 120.

  The liquid crystal control RAM 150b is built in the liquid crystal control CPU 150a, functions as a data work area when the liquid crystal control CPU 150a performs arithmetic processing, and temporarily stores data read from the liquid crystal control ROM 150c.

The liquid crystal control ROM 150c is configured by a mask ROM or the like, and stores a control processing program for the liquid crystal control CPU 150a and a display list generation program for generating a display list.
Further, as will be described later, the liquid crystal control ROM 150c stores a plurality of types of animation information (effect information) that determines an effect using the effect image.
Further, the liquid crystal control ROM 150c collectively stores drawing priorities (z values) drawn in the frame buffer of the VRAM 153 for a plurality of image data associated with the animation information in association with the animation information (effect information). To do.
In addition, the liquid crystal control ROM 150c has a lower priority (a higher z value) than a specific animation pattern (image data constituting the animation pattern) among a plurality of types of animation patterns. Instruction information (dummy data) for instructing the VDP 2000 not to draw the image data of the animation pattern is stored.

  Subsequently, the CGROM 151 is composed of a flash memory, an EEPROM, an EPROM, a mask ROM, and the like, and compresses image data (sprite, movie), etc. composed of a collection of pixel information in a predetermined range of pixels (for example, 32 pixels × 32 pixels) And remember. The pixel information is composed of color number information for designating a color number for each pixel and an α value indicating the transparency of the image.

  The CGROM 151 is read out in units of image data by the VDP 2000, and image processing is performed in units of image data of this frame.

  Further, the CGROM 151 stores palette data in which color number information for designating color numbers and display color information for actually displaying colors are associated with each other without being compressed.

  Note that the CGROM 151 may have a configuration in which only a part of the image data is compressed without being compressed. As a movie compression method, various known compression methods such as MPEG4 can be used.

  The crystal oscillator 152 outputs a pulse signal to the VDP 2000, and divides the pulse signal to generate a system clock for the VDP 2000 to control, a synchronization signal for synchronizing with the liquid crystal display device 31, and the like. .

  The VRAM 153 is composed of an SRAM that can write or read image data at high speed. The VRAM 153 is configured by a memory map as shown in FIG. 12, for example.

  FIG. 12 is an example of a configuration diagram illustrating a configuration of a frame buffer used in the image control board 150 of the gaming machine 1 in the present embodiment.

Specifically, FIG. 12 is a memory map constituting a frame buffer used when the liquid crystal display device 31 displays image data received from the image control board 150.
The memory map shown in FIG. 12 includes an image data development area 153b composed of arbitrary areas, a display list storage area 153a, a first frame buffer area 153c, a second frame buffer area 153d, and other areas.

  The image data development area 153b is an area for storing image data expanded by an expansion circuit (described later) included in the VDP 2000. The display list storage area 153a temporarily stores the display list output from the liquid crystal control CPU 150a. This is the area to be stored in

  The first frame buffer area 153c and the second frame buffer area 153d are work areas for drawing effect images to be displayed on the liquid crystal display device 31 based on the display list stored in the display list storage area 153a. .

  Incidentally, pallet data etc. are memorize | stored in other areas, for example.

  The two frame buffers of the first frame buffer area 153c and the second frame buffer area 153d are alternately switched between a “drawing frame buffer” and a “display frame buffer” every time drawing is started. . That is, when one frame buffer functions as a drawing frame buffer, the other frame buffer functions as a display frame buffer.

  Subsequently, the VDP 2000 is a so-called image processor. Based on an instruction from the liquid crystal control CPU 150a, the liquid crystal display device 31 selects “display frame buffer” from the first frame buffer area 153c and the second frame buffer area 153d. The image data of the effect image is read out.

  A video signal (such as an LVDS signal or an RGB signal) is generated based on the read image data, and is output to the liquid crystal display device 31 for display.

  The VDP 2000 includes a CPU I / F, a control register, a CG bus I / F (not shown), a clock generation circuit, an expansion circuit, a drawing circuit, a display circuit, and a memory controller, which are connected by a bus.

  The control register is a register for the VDP 2000 to control drawing and display, and drawing control and display control are performed by writing and reading data to and from the control register. The liquid crystal control CPU 150a can write and read data to and from the control register via the CPU I / F.

  This control register is a "system control register" that performs basic settings necessary for the operation of the VDP2000, a "data transfer register" that performs settings necessary for data transfer, and a setting for controlling drawing "Drawing register" for performing the settings, "Bus interface register" for performing settings necessary for bus access, "Decompression register" for performing settings necessary for decompressing compressed images, and settings for controlling display There are six types of registers, “display registers”.

  The CG bus I / F is an interface circuit for communication with the CGROM 151, and image data from the CGROM 151 is input to the VDP 2000 via the CG bus I / F.

  The CPU I / F is an interface circuit for communication with the liquid crystal control CPU 150a. Through this CPU I / F, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a outputs a display list and drawing instruction data described later to the VDP 2000, and accesses the control register. Various interrupt signals from the VDP 2000 are input to the liquid crystal control CPU 150a via the CPU I / F.

  The data transfer circuit performs data transfer between various devices. Specifically, data transfer between the liquid crystal control CPU 150a and the VRAM 153, data transfer between the CGROM 151 and the VRAM 153, and data transfer between various storage areas (including the frame buffer) of the VRAM 153 are performed.

  The clock generation circuit receives a pulse signal from the crystal oscillator 152 and generates a system clock that determines the operation processing speed of the VDP2000. Also, a synchronization signal generation clock is generated, and the synchronization signal is output to the liquid crystal display device 31 via the display circuit.

  The decompression circuit is a circuit for decompressing the image data compressed in the CGROM 151, and stores the decompressed image data in the image data development area (arbitrary area) 153b.

  The drawing circuit is a circuit that performs sequence control based on a display list composed of drawing control commands.

  The display circuit generates an image as a video signal from image data (digital signal) stored in a frame buffer functioning as a “display frame buffer” in the first frame buffer area 153c and the second frame buffer area 153d in the VRAM 153. A video signal indicating the color data is generated.

  The display circuit is a circuit that outputs the generated video signal to the liquid crystal display device 31. Further, this display circuit also outputs a synchronizing signal (vertical synchronizing signal, horizontal synchronizing signal, etc.) for synchronizing with the liquid crystal display device 31.

  The memory controller performs control to switch between the “drawing frame buffer” and the “display frame buffer” when an instruction to switch the frame buffer is given from the liquid crystal control CPU 150a.

  The sound control circuit 3000 is provided with an audio ROM (not shown) in which a large number of audio data is stored. The sound control circuit 3000 is based on an audio output instruction command transmitted from the effect control board 120. While reading a predetermined program, the audio output control in the audio output device 32 is performed.

  As described above, the liquid crystal control ROM 150c stores a plurality of types of animation information (effect information).

Each animation information includes an animation pattern for displaying the animation of the production pattern. Each animation pattern is composed of a combination of animation scenes.
The animation scene information constituting each animation scene includes designation information of image data (target data (object etc.)), display order, scene switching counter, drawing priority (z value) drawn in the frame buffer by VDP2000, 1 To specify a weight frame (display time) updated for each frame, parameters for specifying image data (sprite identification number, transfer source address, etc.), and an image drawing area for drawing image data in the frame buffer Parameters (sprite display position (drawing position ((x, y) coordinates))), image data (target data) basic size, enlargement ratio, reduction ratio, transfer destination address, etc.), information specifying the drawing method, etc. The associated information. The liquid crystal control ROM 150c stores animation information including these pieces of information.

  Note that the basic size of image data (target data) is the size of image data (target data) composed of one or more sprites (rectangles). This basic size is represented by, for example, a plurality of cells of vertical M cells × horizontal N cells (M and N are arbitrary numbers) with 36 dots × 36 dots as one cell.

Among these plural types of animation patterns (image data constituting the animation patterns), there are those in which the following “instruction information” is preset as dummy data.
“Instruction information” is lower than the image data of the animation pattern in which the dummy data of this “instruction information” is set, and other animation patterns with lower drawing priority (large z value) are drawn in the frame buffer. Instructs the VDP 2000 not to draw the image data.
An example of this animation information will be described later with reference to FIG.

  The liquid crystal control CPU 150a performs a plurality of types of animation groups (background group, notice A group, notice B group, reach group, jackpot circle) stored in the liquid crystal control ROM 150c based on the effect pattern designation command transmitted from the effect control board 120. One or more animation groups to be executed are determined from among the effect group, the effect symbol group, and the like, and an animation pattern is determined from each anime group. (Animation information determination process).

Here, the “z value” will be described. If each image of the effect image formed by superimposing images based on a plurality of image data is arranged in the three-dimensional virtual space, the position of each image on the z-axis that is the depth direction in the three-dimensional virtual space (Z coordinate) becomes the “z value”.
It is determined by this “z value” whether an effect image formed by superimposing images based on a plurality of image data is displayed on the front or the back of the other images on the liquid crystal display device 31. .
For example, when an effect image is configured by superimposing images based on two image data, an image of image data associated with a larger “z value” is smaller in the other image data (“z value”). ) Is rendered as an image on the back side of the image.

When the liquid crystal control CPU 150a receives an effect pattern designation command from the effect control board 120, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a reads a program for generating a display list (display list generation program) stored in the liquid crystal control ROM 150c and executes it on the liquid crystal control RAM 150b. .
By executing this display list generation program, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a generates a display list based on a predetermined effect pattern designation command received from the effect control board 120 (display list generation process).
The liquid crystal control CPU 150a determines whether or not the determined plurality of animation patterns include a specific animation pattern associated with the dummy data as the above-described instruction information (dummy data determination process).
If the liquid crystal control CPU 150a determines in the dummy data determination process that the specific animation pattern associated with the dummy data is included, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a includes a plurality of animation patterns determined in the animation information determination process. A display list for designating an animation pattern excluding an animation pattern associated with a “z value” larger than the “z value” of the specific anime pattern is generated.

  The liquid crystal control CPU 150a transfers the generated display list to the VDP 2000. This display list is stored in the display list storage area 153a of the VRAM 153 of the VDP2000.

  The VDP 2000 performs image processing on image data for each frame read from the CGROM 151 based on a display list drawing control command transferred from the liquid crystal control CPU 150a and stored. Then, the VDP 2000 draws the image processed image data in the “drawing frame buffer” of the frame buffer of the VRAM 153. When drawing a plurality of image data in the frame buffer, the VDP 2000 draws the image data in order from the image data having a low priority (z value is large).

  The VDP 2000 appropriately sets necessary data in the drawing register. The VDP 2000 draws the image data expanded in the image data development area 153b (see FIG. 12), which is an arbitrary area of the VRAM 153, in the “drawing frame buffer” of the frame buffer.

  The VDP 2000 draws image data associated with a predetermined animation pattern in the image drawing area of the frame buffer.

  The VDP 2000 reads the image data (digital signal) drawn in the frame buffer, generates an RGB signal (analog signal) indicating the color data of the image as a video signal, and outputs the RGB signal (analog signal) to the liquid crystal display device 31 via the general-purpose substrate 39. To do. That is, the VDP 2000 outputs a video signal of the effect image drawn based on the display list to the liquid crystal display device 31.

  Furthermore, the VDP 2000 also outputs a synchronization signal (vertical synchronization signal, horizontal synchronization signal, etc.) for synchronizing with the liquid crystal display device 31 to the liquid crystal display device 31.

  In the present embodiment, an RGB signal obtained by converting a digital signal into an analog signal is output to the liquid crystal display device 31 as the video signal. However, the video signal may be output as the digital signal.

  The liquid crystal display device 31 displays an effect image whose drawing is controlled based on the display list.

FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of animation information used on the image control board 150 of the gaming machine 1.
As described above, the animation information includes an animation pattern for displaying the animation of the effect pattern.

  The animation pattern shown in FIG. 13A is information in which a scene that is a timing or a scene at which the effect image is displayed is specified in addition to an object or the like that constitutes the effect image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 31. It is.

A group (hereinafter also referred to as “animation group”) is formed by bundling one or a plurality of the animation patterns. As an animation group, for example, as shown in FIG. 13A, a background group for displaying a background animation, a notice A group for displaying an animation of a character used for notice A, and a character used for notice B. A notice B group for displaying animation, a reach group for displaying the animation of a reach character, a jackpot directing group for displaying an animation of a jackpot directing, a directing design group for displaying the animation of the directing pattern 38, etc. Can be mentioned.
Of course, these are merely examples of animation groups, and many other groups are provided.
This animation group is stored in the liquid crystal control ROM 150c.

  When the liquid crystal control CPU 150a receives an effect pattern designation command from the sub CPU 120a in the effect control board 120, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a determines one or a plurality of animation groups to be executed based on the effect pattern designation command. To decide.

  The liquid crystal control CPU 150a determines one animation pattern from a plurality of animation patterns in each animation group as shown in FIG. 13A based on the effect pattern designation command received from the sub CPU 120a in the effect control board 120.

  13 (b) to 13 (d) show the animation determined when the effect pattern designation command “A1H07H” is received among the effect pattern designation commands specified in the effect pattern determination table shown in FIG. An example of the pattern is shown.

  This effect pattern designation command (A1H07H) is a command for instructing to perform “normal variation effect” with the variation effect pattern of “variation effect pattern 7”. For example, the component used when performing the normal variation effect Is an anime group to which at least one of the anime groups separated for each role used for the change production is specified.

  The liquid crystal control ROM 150c stores an animation group correspondence table (not shown) in which an effect pattern designation command is associated with an animation group used for the effect pattern of the effect pattern designation command. The liquid crystal control CPU 150a determines an animation group to be used for the effect pattern designation command using the animation group correspondence table.

  For example, upon receiving an effect pattern designation command (A1H07H) corresponding to “variable effect pattern 7”, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a determines four groups “background group, notice A group, notice B group, effect symbol group”. The animation pattern is determined from each of these anime groups. The liquid crystal control CPU 150a generates a display list for generating an effect image formed by superimposing images based on the image data of each group of “background group, notice A group, notice B group, effect symbol group”.

  For example, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a determines “animation pattern 1” from the background group, “animation pattern 11” from the announcement A group, “animation pattern 21” from the announcement B group, and “ Anime pattern 501 "is determined.

  As shown in FIGS. 13B to 13E, the animation pattern information (animation pattern information) is configured by a combination of animation scenes based on the animation scene information associated with the above information.

FIG. 13B is a diagram showing information on the animation pattern 1 (animation scene 1) determined from the “background group”. FIG. 13C is a diagram showing information on the animation pattern 11 (animation scene 11) determined from the “notice A group”. FIG. 13D is a diagram showing information on the animation pattern 21 (animation scene 21) determined from the “notice B group”. FIG. 13E is a diagram showing information on the animation pattern 501 (animation scenes 501A, 501B, and 511) determined from the “production symbol group”.
“Z = 10” is associated with the animation pattern 1 determined from the “background group” in FIG. 13B as the “z value” indicating the drawing priority. Further, “z = 6” is associated with the animation pattern 11 determined from the “notice A group” in FIG. Also, “z = 3” is associated with the animation pattern 21 determined from the “notice B group” in FIG. Also, “z = 1” is associated with the animation pattern 501 determined from the “effect design group” in FIG.

Frame images displayed at a predetermined timing (for example, FIGS. 14A, 14B, and 14D to 14F described later) are “background groups” shown in FIG. 13B. The image data (z = 10) of “animation pattern 1” (animation scene 1) determined from the “animation pattern 11” (anime scene 11) determined from the “notice A group” shown in FIG. The image data (z = 1) and the image data (z = 1) of the “animation pattern 501” (animation scene 501A) determined from the “production symbol group” shown in FIG. It is.
That is, the image of the anime pattern 501 is the highest layer image with the highest priority (z = 1), the image of the anime pattern 11 (z = 6) is the second layer image from the top, and the anime pattern 1 This image (z = 10) is the third (lowest) layer image from the top.

  A frame image (for example, FIG. 14C shown later) displayed at a specific timing is “animation pattern 21” (animation scene 21) determined from “notice B group” shown in FIG. ) Image data (z = 3) and image data (z = 1) of “animation pattern 501” (animation scene 501B) determined from the “effect design group” shown in FIG. Is. The image of “animation pattern 501” (anime scene 501B) is the highest layer image with the highest priority (z = 1), and the image (z = 3) of animation pattern 21 (anime scene 21) is from the top. This is the second layer image.

  For “animation pattern 21”, other animation patterns (“notice A group”) having a lower drawing priority (large z value) drawn in the frame buffer than the image data of “anime pattern 21”. The instruction information for instructing the VDP 2000 not to draw the image data of “animation pattern 11” determined from the “background pattern” and “animation pattern 1” determined from the “background group” is associated with the dummy data as liquid crystal control. It is stored in the ROM 150c.

  Here, an example in which the “z value” is stored in association with the animation pattern in the liquid crystal control ROM 150c has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the “z value” may be stored in association with the animation scene, or may be stored in association with the target data (image data).

  The liquid crystal control RAM 150b has a “scene switching counter” that counts and updates for each frame. For example, while the third animation scene 501A is being executed, the “scene switching counter” is set to 240. By counting, the animation scene switches to the fourth animation scene 511.

  When “60” (for 60 frames) is counted by the “scene switching counter” while the fourth animation scene 511 is being executed, the animation scene of the animation pattern of the effect symbol group ends.

  The “one frame” is the display device update timing (vertical synchronization signal update timing). For example, when the liquid crystal display device 31 displays 60 frames per second, “1/60 seconds ( One frame is updated every "about 16.6 ms)".

  In the above example, one frame is updated every "1/60 seconds (about 16.6 ms)". However, the present invention is not limited to this, and "1/30 seconds (about 33. The configuration may be such that one frame is updated every 3 ms). In this case, the liquid crystal display device 31 displays 30 frames per second.

For example, in the animation scene 501A shown in FIG. 13 (e), first, image data of the first symbol, the second symbol, and the third symbol are set to predetermined coordinates (the first symbol is coordinates (Xe ₁ , Ye ₁ ), The two symbols specify the coordinates (Xf ₁ , Yf ₁ ), and the third symbol specifies the coordinates (Xg ₁ , Yg ₁ )) for 20 frames (about 0.33 seconds).

After that, the image data of the first symbol, the second symbol, and the third symbol is changed to different coordinates (the first symbol is coordinates (Xe ₂ , Ye ₂ ), the second symbol is coordinates (Xf ₂ , Yf ₂ ), the third symbol Designates drawing for 15 frames (about 0.25 seconds) at coordinates (Xg ₂ , Yg ₂ )).

  Similarly, when image data of the first symbol, the second symbol, and the third symbol are continuously drawn at the designated coordinates for a predetermined frame, the first symbol, the second symbol, and the third symbol are displayed. It becomes an animation that moves and displays.

  Also, the animation pattern 501 shown in FIG. 13 (e) displays the normal variation display of the first symbol, the second symbol, and the third symbol for 2 seconds (120 frames) after 3 seconds (180 frames) after the start of the animation pattern. This specifies that the animation scene 501B is different from the animation scene 501A.

  Further, in each of the animation patterns “background group, notice A group, notice B group” shown in FIGS. 13B to 13D, the animation scene 1 is displayed in the background group as shown in FIG. “600” frames are specified to be executed. Further, as shown in FIG. 13C, the notice A group specifies that the animation scene 11 is executed for “420” frames after the animation scene 0 is executed for “120” frames. Further, as shown in FIG. 13D, the notice B group specifies that the animation scene 21 is executed for “120” frames after the animation scene 0 is executed for “180” frames.

  As described above, as shown in FIG. 13B to FIG. 13E, “background group animation pattern 1, announcement A group animation pattern 11, announcement B group animation pattern 21, and production pattern group The animation pattern “anime pattern 501” is determined.

FIG. 14 is a diagram showing extracted frame images constituting an animation image based on the animation pattern of such “variation effect pattern 7”.
When the “normal variation effect” of the “variation effect pattern 7” is started, the frame image of FIG. 14A is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 31, and thereafter each of FIGS. 14B to 14F is displayed. Frame images including frame images are continuously displayed on the liquid crystal display device 31.

That is, in the display area of the liquid crystal display device 31, after the start of the “normal variation effect” animation pattern, for example, as shown in FIGS. 14A and 14B, BG1 (mountain) and BG2 are used as the background. An image of (cloud) is displayed, and after 2 seconds (120 frames) from the start of the animation pattern, an image for performing an animation for displaying the notice of the character A1 (balloon) starts to be displayed.
Further, the animation image of the normal variation display of the effect pattern is displayed for 9 seconds (540 frames) from the start of this animation pattern (see FIGS. 14 (a) to 14 (e)), and then for 1 second (60 frames). An animation image of the temporary stop display of (stop time) is displayed (see FIG. 14F).

As shown in FIG. 14 (c), after 3 seconds from the start of the “normal variation effect” animation pattern, the advance notice having the character B 1 (cat) is made by “animation pattern 21” determined from the “notice B group”. The image of B is displayed for 2 seconds (120 frames).
The animation image of the normal variation display of the effect symbol in this “normal variation effect” is the liquid crystal display device while the image of the notice B is displayed (2 seconds after the start of the animation pattern 3 seconds (180 frames)). The image of the animation scene 501B is displayed small in the lower right of the display area 31.
14 (a), FIG. 14 (b), FIG. 14 (d) to FIG. 14 (f), images of each target data (BG1 (mountain), BG2 (cloud), character A1 (balloon), The images displayed on the entire screen in the liquid crystal display device 31 of the notice B shown in FIG. 1C, FIG. 2C, and FIG. 14C are all displayed opaquely with an α value of α = 1. It is what is done.

  Each frame image constituting these animation images is displayed superimposed on (overlapped with) the display area of the liquid crystal display device 31.

  FIG. 15 is a diagram showing images of the respective layers constituting the frame image of FIG.

  FIG. 15A is a diagram showing an image of the highest layer by “animation pattern 501” (animation scene 501A) (z = 1) determined from the effect symbol group. FIG. 15B is a diagram showing an image of the second highest layer from the “animation pattern 11” (animation scene 11) (z = 6) determined from the notice A group. FIG. 15C is a diagram showing an image of the third (lowest) layer from the top by “animation pattern 1” (animation scene 1) (z = 10) determined from the background group.

FIG. 16 is a diagram showing images of the respective layers constituting the frame image of FIG.
FIG. 16A is a diagram showing an image of the uppermost layer by “animation pattern 501” (animation scene 501B) (z = 1) determined from the effect design group. FIG. 16B is a diagram showing an image of the second highest layer from the “animation pattern 21” (animation scene 21) (z = 3) determined from the notice B group.

  As described above, with respect to “anime pattern 21” (z = 3), another animation pattern (“notice”) having a lower drawing priority than that of the image data of “anime pattern 21”. Instruct VDP2000 not to draw the image data of “animation pattern 11” (z = 6) determined from “A group” and “animation pattern 1” (z = 10) determined from “background group” The instruction information to be stored is associated with the dummy data and stored in the liquid crystal control ROM 150c.

In the dummy data determination process, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a determines that “animation pattern 21” associated with the dummy data is included in the plurality of animation patterns determined in the animation information determination process. In this case, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a performs “animation pattern 11” (z = 6) having a larger “z value” than “animation pattern 21” (z = 3) among the plurality of animation patterns determined in the animation information determination process. ) And an animation pattern excluding “anime pattern 1” (z = 10) (“anime pattern 501” (anime scene 501B) and “anime pattern 21” (anime scene 21)). Generate.
Thereby, the image of “animation pattern 11” (animation scene 11) (z = 6) determined from “notice A group” shown in FIG. 16C and “background group” shown in FIG. The image of “animation pattern 1” (z = 10) determined from the above is not drawn in the frame buffer.

  That is, even if the image data of the images of FIG. 16C and FIG. 16D is drawn, they are hidden behind the image of FIG. Is not displayed. In the present embodiment, the processing load of the drawing control process is reduced by not drawing the image data of the image that is not displayed on the liquid crystal display device 31.

In the present embodiment, as described above, since the entire surface is displayed opaque (α = 1), the display content (effect content) of the image (FIG. 16B) in which the image behind is not displayed is displayed. Dummy data is associated with the defined “animation pattern 21”.
However, the dummy data is not limited to an example in which the dummy data is associated with an animation pattern of an image whose entire surface is opaque. For example, dummy data may be set for an animation pattern of an image with display contents that should be particularly notified to the player as an important effect image.

  An example of a display list that is drawing content information that determines the content of drawing to be drawn by the VDP 2000 generated by the liquid crystal control CPU 150a will be described. The display list includes a drawing control command group related to drawing.

  When the liquid crystal control CPU 150a determines an animation pattern based on the animation information as shown in FIG. 13 described above, a display list is generated for each predetermined frame (one frame) displayed on the liquid crystal display device 31. The liquid crystal control CPU 150a outputs the generated display list to the VDP 2000.

  Here, based on the “frame counter” indicating the current frame and the determined animation pattern (anime scene), the liquid crystal control CPU 150a sends a drawing control command according to the contents of the animation scene at the current number of frames. A display list for the current number of frames is generated by generating according to the priority order (drawing order) of each animation group.

  Below, the example of the display list which comprises the effect image displayed in the liquid crystal display device 31 is shown.

For example, a display list (FIG. 17) specifying the drawing contents of the frame image of FIG. 14B will be described.
In the animation information determination process, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a uses “A production pattern designation command (A1H07H) corresponding to“ variable production pattern 7 ”as an animation pattern of the animation group constituting the frame image of FIG. “Animation pattern 1” (z = 10) of “Background group”, “Anime pattern 11” (z = 6) of “Announcement A group”, “Anime pattern 501” (z = 1) of “Direction design group” Are determined (see FIGS. 13B, 13C, and 13E).

  Then, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a applies the above-described instruction information to any of the animation patterns (“animation pattern 1”, “animation pattern 11”, “animation pattern 501”) determined in the animation information determination processing in the dummy data determination processing. It is determined that the dummy data is not associated. Then, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a temporarily stores determination result information indicating the determination result in the liquid crystal control RAM 150b.

  The liquid crystal control CPU 150a performs “animation pattern 1” and “anime pattern 11” based on the production pattern designation command (A1H07H) transmitted from the sub CPU 120a of the production control board 120 and the determination result information in the display list generation processing. , All the animation patterns of “animation pattern 501” are designated, and the drawing control command according to the contents of the animation scene in the current frame counter (current number of frames) is selected from the animation pattern having a low priority (large z value). Generate sequentially.

The liquid crystal control CPU 150a displays the drawing control command of the animation scene 1 in the animation pattern 1 (z = 10) determined from the background group and the animation pattern determined from the notice A group as the display list of the frame image in FIG. The drawing control command for the animation scene 11 at 11 (z = 6) and the drawing control command for the animation scene 501A in the animation pattern 501 (z = 1) determined from the effect symbol group are sequentially generated. Then, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a finally generates a drawing end command and generates a display list shown in FIG. 17 while referring to other necessary data.
The liquid crystal control CPU 150a transfers the generated display list to the VDP 2000.

  When the VDP 2000 receives the display list from the liquid crystal control CPU 150a, the VDP 2000 performs drawing control on the image data stored in the CGROM 151 based on the drawing control command included in the display list, and performs the first frame buffer area 153c and the second frame. Image data is drawn in a frame buffer functioning as a “drawing frame buffer” in the buffer area 153d.

  The VDP 2000 displays an effect image based on the drawn image data on the liquid crystal display device 31.

Further, for example, a display list (FIG. 18) in which the drawing contents of the frame image in FIG.
In the animation information determination process, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a, as an animation pattern of the animation group constituting the frame image of FIG. 14C, based on the effect pattern designation command (A1H07H) corresponding to “variable effect pattern 7”, “Animation Pattern 1” (z = 10) of “Background Group”, “Anime Pattern 11” (z = 6) of “Announcement A Group”, and “Anime Pattern 21” (z = 3) of “Announcement B Group” Then, “animation pattern 501” (z = 1) of “effect design group” is determined (see FIGS. 13B to 13E).

  Then, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a includes the animation patterns (“anime pattern 1”, “anime pattern 11”, “anime pattern 21”, “anime pattern 501”) determined in the animation information determination process in the dummy data determination process. Then, it is determined that there is an “animation pattern 21” associated with the dummy data as the instruction information. Then, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a temporarily stores determination result information indicating the determination result in the liquid crystal control RAM 150b.

In the display list generation process, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a performs “animation pattern” based on the effect pattern designation command (A1H07H) transmitted from the sub CPU 120a of the effect control board 120 and the determination result information stored in the liquid crystal control RAM 150b. “501” (z = 1) and “animation pattern 21” (z = 3) are specified, and “animation pattern 11” and “anime pattern 1” having lower priority than “anime pattern 21” (large z value). A display list that does not specify is generated.
Thereby, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a has a low priority (high z value) for a drawing control command according to the contents of the animation scene (anime scene 501B, animation scene 21) in the current frame counter (current number of frames). Generate in order from the animation pattern.

  In the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, as described above, in the liquid crystal display device 31, images that are hidden and not displayed behind a specific image (see FIG. 16B) (FIGS. 16C and 16D). A display list that does not specify drawing for (see) is generated. Thereby, in VDP2000, since an image is drawn using such a display list with a small amount of information, it is possible to reduce the burden of drawing control processing.

  FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing a detailed flow of the main process performed on the main control board 110 of the gaming machine 1 in the present embodiment.

  When power is supplied from the power supply board 170, a system reset occurs in the main CPU 110a, and the main CPU 110a performs the following main processing.

  First, the main CPU 110a performs an initialization process (S1901). In this initialization process, the main CPU 110a reads a startup program from the main ROM 110b in response to power-on, and performs a process of initializing flags and the like stored in the main RAM 110c.

  Subsequently, the main CPU 110a performs an effect random number update process for updating the reach determination random number value and the special figure variation random value for determining the variation mode (variation time) of the special symbol (S1902).

  Then, the main CPU 110a updates the initial random number value for special symbol determination, the initial random number value for jackpot symbol, the initial value random number value for small bonus symbol, and the initial random number value for normal symbol determination (S1903).

  When such a process is performed, it is determined whether or not a power-off process for shutting off the power supply is performed (S1904). Until the power-off process is performed (NO in S1904), an interrupt process is performed, thereby producing an effect. The random number value update process (S1902) and subsequent steps are repeated. Further, when the power interruption process is performed (YES in S1904), the process is terminated.

  FIG. 20 is an example of a flowchart showing a detailed flow of the timer interrupt process performed on the main control board 110 of the gaming machine 1 in the present embodiment.

  A clock pulse is generated every predetermined period (4 milliseconds) by the reset clock pulse generation circuit provided on the main control board 110, thereby executing a timer interrupt process described below.

  First, the main CPU 110a saves information stored in the register of the main CPU 110a in the stack area (S2001).

  The main CPU 110a has various timers such as a special symbol time counter update process, a special game timer counter update process such as a special electric accessory release time, a normal symbol time counter update process, and a general electric release time counter update process. A time control process for updating the counter is performed. Specifically, a process of subtracting 1 from the special symbol time counter, the special game timer counter, the normal symbol time counter, and the general electricity open time counter is performed (S2002).

  The main CPU 110a performs random number update processing for the special symbol determination random number value, the big hit symbol random number value, the small hit symbol random number value, and the normal symbol determination random number value (S2003).

  Specifically, each random number value and random number counter are incremented (unit number addition) and updated. When the added random number counter exceeds the maximum value of the random number range (when the random number counter makes one round), the random number counter is returned to “0 (zero)” and the initial random number “0 (zero) at that time” ”To update each random value.

  Subsequently, the main CPU 110a performs an initial random value update process for updating the initial random number value for special symbol determination, the initial random number value for jackpot symbol, the initial random number value for small bonus symbol, and the initial random number value for normal symbol determination (S2004). ).

  The main CPU 110a performs input control processing (S2005).

  In this input control process, the main CPU 110a includes the general winning opening detecting switch 12a, the first large winning opening detecting switch 16a, the second large winning opening detecting switch 17a, the first starting opening detecting switch 14a, and the second starting opening detecting switch 15a. Then, it is determined whether or not there is an input to each switch of the gate detection switch 13a.

  Specifically, various detection signals from the general winning opening detecting switch 12a, the first big winning opening detecting switch 16a, the second large winning opening detecting switch 17a, the first starting opening detecting switch 14a, and the second starting opening detecting switch 15a. Is inputted, predetermined data is added to the prize ball counter used for the prize ball provided for each prize opening and updated.

  Furthermore, when a detection signal is input from the first start port detection switch 14a, if the data set in the first special symbol hold number (U1) storage area is less than 4, the first special symbol hold number ( U1) Add 1 to the storage area to obtain special symbol determination random number value, jackpot symbol random number value, small hit symbol random number value, reach determination random number value, and special symbol variation random value The random number value is stored in a predetermined storage unit (0th storage unit to 4th storage unit) in the first special symbol random value storage area.

  Similarly, when a detection signal is input from the second start port detection switch 15a, if the data set in the second special symbol hold number (U2) storage area is less than 4, the second special symbol hold number (U2) 1 is added to the storage area, and a random number value for special symbol determination, a random number value for big hit symbol, a random number value for small hit symbol, a random number value for reach determination, and a random number value for special symbol variation are acquired. Various random numbers are stored in a predetermined storage unit (0th storage unit to 4th storage unit) in the second special symbol random number value storage area.

  When a detection signal is input from the gate detection switch 13a, if the data set in the normal symbol hold number (G) storage area is less than 4, the normal symbol hold number (G) storage area is set to 1. It adds, acquires the random number value for normal symbol determination, and memorize | stores the acquired random number value for normal symbol determination in the predetermined memory | storage part (0th memory | storage part-4th memory | storage part) in a normal symbol holding | maintenance storage area.

  Further, when a detection signal is input from the first grand prize opening detection switch 16a or the second big prize opening detection switch 17a, the number of game balls won in the first big prize opening 16 or the second big prize opening 17 is counted. 1 is added to the number of entries (C) storage area for the big winning opening to update.

  Next, the main CPU 110a performs special figure special electric power control processing for controlling the jackpot lottery, the special electric accessory, and the gaming state (S2006). Subsequently, the main CPU 110a performs a general-purpose normal power control process for controlling the normal symbol lottery and the normal electric accessory (S2007).

  Specifically, it is first determined whether or not 1 or more data is set in the normal symbol hold count (G) storage area, and 1 or more data must be set in the normal symbol hold count (G) storage area. If this is the case, the current ordinary power transmission control process is terminated.

  If 1 or more data is set in the normal symbol holding number (G) storage area, after subtracting 1 from the value stored in the normal symbol holding number (G) storage area, the data is in the normal symbol holding storage area. The normal symbol determination random numbers stored in the first storage unit to the fourth storage unit are shifted to the previous storage unit. At this time, the normal symbol determination random value already written in the 0th storage unit is overwritten and erased.

  Then, a process of determining whether or not the normal symbol determination random number value stored in the 0th storage unit of the normal symbol hold storage area is a random value corresponding to “win” is performed. Thereafter, the normal symbol display device 22 displays the fluctuation of the normal symbol. When the fluctuation time of the normal symbol elapses, the normal symbol corresponding to the result of the normal symbol lottery is stopped and displayed. If the random number for normal symbol determination referred to is “winning”, the start opening / closing solenoid 15c is driven to control the second start opening 15 to the second mode for a predetermined opening time.

  Here, in the non-short-time gaming state, the variation time of the normal symbol is set to 29 seconds, and if it is “winning”, the second start port 15 is controlled to the second mode for 0.2 seconds. On the other hand, in the short-time gaming state, the normal symbol variation time is set to 0.2 seconds, and if it is “winning”, the second start port 15 is controlled to the second mode for 3.5 seconds. .

  Then, the main CPU 110a performs a payout control process (S2008).

  In this payout control process, the main CPU 110a refers to each prize ball counter, generates payout number designation commands corresponding to various winning ports, and transmits the generated payout number designation commands to the payout control board 130. To do.

  The main CPU 110a includes external information data, start opening / closing solenoid data, first big prize opening / closing solenoid data, second big prize opening / closing solenoid data, special symbol display device data, normal symbol display device data, and memory number designation command data. A creation process is performed (S2009).

  The main CPU 110a performs output control processing. In this process, a port output process is performed to output the signals of the external information data, the start opening / closing solenoid data, the first big prize opening / closing solenoid data, and the second big prize opening / closing solenoid data created previously (S2010).

  In addition, the special symbol display device data and the normal symbol display device data created previously are output in order to light each LED of the first special symbol display device 20, the second special symbol display device 21 and the normal symbol display device 22. Display device output processing.

  Further, command transmission processing for transmitting the command set in the effect transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c to the effect control board 120 is also performed.

  The main CPU 110a restores the information saved in S1601 to the register of the main CPU 110a (S2011).

  FIG. 21 is an example of a flowchart showing a detailed flow of the special figure special electricity control process performed on the main control board 110 of the gaming machine 1 in the present embodiment.

  First, the value of special figure special processing data is loaded (S2101), and the branch address is referenced from the loaded special figure special processing data (S2102).

  At this time, if the special symbol special electricity processing data is “0 (zero)”, the special symbol memory determination processing is performed (S2103). If the special symbol special electricity processing data is “1”, the special symbol variation processing is performed. (S2104), and if the special figure special electricity processing data is "2", special symbol stop processing is carried out (S2105).

  If the special figure special power processing data is “3”, the big hit game processing is performed (S2106). If the special figure special electric processing data is “4”, the big hit game end processing is performed (S2107). If the process data is “5”, a small hit game process is performed (S2108).

  This “special drawing special electricity processing data” is set as necessary in each subroutine of the special figure special electricity control processing, so that the subroutine necessary for the game is appropriately processed.

  As the special symbol memory determination process at this time, the main CPU 110a performs a jackpot determination process, a special symbol determination process for determining a special symbol to be stopped and displayed, a variation time determination process for determining a variation time of the special symbol, and the like. The detailed flow of this special symbol memory determination process will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 22 is an example of a flowchart showing a detailed flow of the special symbol memory determination process performed on the main control board 110 of the gaming machine 1 in the present embodiment.

  First, the main CPU 110a determines whether or not one or more data is set in the first special symbol hold count (U1) storage area or the second special symbol hold count (U2) storage area (S2201).

  If one or more data is not set in any storage area of the first special symbol hold number (U1) storage area or the second special symbol hold number (U2) storage area (NO in S2201), the special figure The special symbol variation process of this time is terminated while the special electric processing data is kept at “0 (zero)”.

  On the other hand, if one or more data is set in the first special symbol hold count (U1) storage area or the second special symbol hold count (U2) storage area (YES in S2201), the main CPU 110a performs the jackpot determination process. This is performed (S2202).

  Specifically, when one or more data is set in the second special symbol hold count (U2) storage area, 1 is calculated from the value stored in the second special symbol hold count (U2) storage area. After the subtraction, the various random numbers stored in the first to fourth storage units in the second special symbol random number storage area are shifted to the previous storage unit. At this time, various random values already written in the 0th storage unit are overwritten and deleted. Whether the special symbol determination random number value stored in the 0th storage unit of the second special symbol random value storage area is a random value corresponding to “big hit” or a random value corresponding to “small hit” Judgment is made.

  In addition, when one or more data is not set in the second special symbol hold number (U2) storage area and one or more data is set in the first special symbol hold number (U1) storage area, Various random numbers stored in the first to fourth storage units in the first special symbol random number storage area after subtracting 1 from the value stored in the first special symbol hold number (U1) storage area Is shifted to the previous storage unit. Also at this time, various random numbers already written in the 0th storage unit are overwritten and deleted. Whether the special symbol determination random number value stored in the 0th storage unit of the first special symbol random value storage area is a random value corresponding to “big hit” or a random value corresponding to “small hit” Judgment is made.

  In the present embodiment, the random number value stored in the second special symbol random value storage area is shifted (digested) with priority over the first special symbol random value storage area.

  Without being limited thereto, the first special symbol storage area or the second special symbol storage area may be shifted in the order of winning in the start opening, or the first special symbol storage area may be shifted to the second special symbol storage area. The shift may be performed with priority over.

  Next, the main CPU 110a performs a special symbol determination process for determining the type of special symbol to be stopped and displayed (S2203).

  In this special symbol determination process, when it is determined as “big hit” in the jackpot determination process (S2202), the big hit symbol random number value stored in the 0th storage unit of the first special symbol random number value storage area is set. The jackpot symbol is determined based on this.

  Also, in the big hit determination process (S2202), if it is determined as “small win”, the small hit symbol random number value stored in the 0th storage unit of the first special symbol random number value storage area is small. The winning symbol is determined.

  Further, in the big hit determination process (S2202), when it is determined “lost”, a lost symbol is determined.

  Stop symbol data corresponding to the special symbol determined as described above is stored in the stop symbol data storage area.

  Next, the main CPU 110a performs special symbol variation time determination processing (S2204).

  Specifically, the variation pattern of the special symbol is determined based on the reach determination random number value and the special diagram variation random value stored in the 0th storage unit of the first special symbol random value storage area. Thereafter, the variation time of the special symbol corresponding to the determined variation pattern of the special symbol is determined. Then, a process of setting a counter corresponding to the determined variation time of the special symbol in the special symbol time counter is performed.

  The main CPU 110a sets variation display data for causing the first special symbol display device 20 or the second special symbol display device 21 to perform variation display of the special symbol (LED blinking) in a predetermined processing area.

  As a result, when variable display data is set in a predetermined processing area, LED lighting or extinguishing data is appropriately created by the above processing, and the created data is output, whereby the first special symbol display The variable display of the device 20 or the second special symbol display device 21 is performed.

  Furthermore, when the special symbol variation display is started (S2205), the main CPU 110a changes the special symbol variation pattern designation command (the first special symbol variation pattern designation command or the first special symbol variation pattern designation command) corresponding to the determined special symbol variation pattern. The second special symbol variation pattern designation command) is set in the effect transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c.

  The main CPU 110a sets “Special Figure Special Electric Processing Data = 0” to “Special Special Electric Processing Data = 1” (S2206), prepares for the special symbol variation processing subroutine, and ends the special symbol memory determination processing. To do.

  FIG. 23 is an example of a flowchart showing a detailed flow of the main process performed on the effect control board 120 of the gaming machine 1 in the present embodiment.

  First, the sub CPU 120a performs initialization processing (S2301).

  In this initialization process, the sub CPU 120a reads a main processing program from the sub ROM 120b and initializes and sets a flag and the like stored in the sub RAM 120c in response to power-on.

  Next, the sub CPU 120a performs an effect random number update process (S2302).

  In this effect random number update process, the sub CPU 120a updates the random numbers (the effect random number value 1, the effect random number value 2, the effect design determining random value, the effect mode determining random value, etc.) stored in the sub RAM 120c. Process.

  Subsequently, it is determined whether or not a power interruption process for shutting off the power is performed (S2303). Until the power interruption process is performed (NO in S2303), the effect random number update process and the subsequent processes are performed until a predetermined interrupt process is performed Repeat. If the power interruption process has been performed (YES in S2303), the process ends.

  FIG. 24 is an example of a flowchart showing a detailed flow of the timer interrupt process performed on the effect control board 120 of the gaming machine 1 in the present embodiment.

  Although not shown in the figure, a clock pulse is generated every predetermined period (2 milliseconds) by a reset clock pulse generation circuit provided on the effect control board 120, a timer interrupt processing program is read, and the timer of the effect control board is read. Interrupt processing is executed.

  First, the sub CPU 120a saves the information stored in the register of the sub CPU 120a to the stack area (S2401), and updates various timer counters used in the effect control board 120 (S2402).

  Next, the sub CPU 120a performs command analysis processing (S2403).

  In this command analysis processing, the sub CPU 120a performs processing for analyzing a command stored in the reception buffer of the sub RAM 120c. A specific description of the command analysis processing will be described later with reference to FIGS. When the effect control board 120 receives a command transmitted from the main control board 110, a command reception interrupt process of the effect control board 120 (not shown) occurs, and the received command is stored in the reception buffer. Thereafter, the received command is analyzed.

  The sub CPU 120a checks the signals of the effect button detection switch 35a and the cross key detection switch 36a, performs effect input control processing related to the effect button 35 (S2404), and receives various commands set in the transmission buffer of the sub RAM 120c. Data output processing to be transmitted to the lamp control board 140 and the image control board 150 is performed (S2405).

  Then, the sub CPU 120a restores the previously saved information to the register of the sub CPU 120a (S2406).

  FIG. 25 is an example of a first flowchart showing a detailed flow of the command analysis processing performed on the effect control board 120 of the gaming machine 1 in the present embodiment. FIG. 26 shows the command analysis processing shown in FIG. It is a 2nd flowchart which shows the continuation.

  The sub CPU 120a confirms whether or not the command is received in the reception buffer, and confirms whether or not the command is received (S2501).

  If there is no command in the reception buffer (NO in S2501), the sub CPU 120a ends the command analysis process. If there is a command in the reception buffer (YES in S2501), it is subsequently confirmed whether or not the command stored in the reception buffer is a demo designation command (S2502).

  If the command stored in the reception buffer is a demonstration designation command (YES in S2502), the sub CPU 120a performs a demonstration effect pattern determination process for determining a demonstration effect pattern (S2503).

  Specifically, the demonstration effect pattern is determined, the determined demonstration effect pattern is set in the effect pattern storage area, and information on the determined demonstration effect pattern is transmitted to the image control board 150 and the lamp control board 140. An effect pattern designation command based on the demo effect pattern is set in the transmission buffer of the sub-RAM 120c.

  If the command stored in the reception buffer is not a demo designation command (NO in S2502), then the sub CPU 120a checks whether or not the command stored in the reception buffer is a special symbol storage designation command. (S2504).

  If the command stored in the reception buffer is a special symbol memory designation command (YES in S2504), the special symbol memory designation command is analyzed to determine the number of special figure pending images to be displayed on the liquid crystal display device 31. At the same time, a special symbol storage number determination process is performed for transmitting a special figure display number designation command corresponding to the determined display number of special figure hold images to the image control board 150 and the lamp control board 140 (S2505).

  If the command stored in the reception buffer is not a special symbol storage designation command (NO in S2504), then the sub CPU 120a determines whether or not the command stored in the reception buffer is an effect symbol designation command. Confirmation is made (S2506).

  If the command stored in the reception buffer is an effect symbol designation command (YES in S2506), the sub CPU 120a displays an effect symbol 38 to be stopped and displayed on the liquid crystal display device 31 based on the content of the received effect symbol designation command. The effect design determination process to determine is performed (S2507).

  Specifically, the effect symbol determination process analyzes the effect symbol designation command, determines the effect symbol data constituting the combination of the effect symbols 38 according to the presence or absence of the jackpot and the type of jackpot, and the determined effect In addition to setting the symbol data in the effect symbol storage area and transmitting the effect symbol data to the image control board 150 and the lamp control board 140, a stop symbol designating command indicating the effect symbol data is set in the transmission buffer of the sub RAM 120c. .

  At this time, the sub CPU 120a further acquires one random number value from the effect mode determination random value updated as shown above, and based on the acquired effect mode determination random value and the received effect designating command. Then, an effect mode determining process for determining one effect mode from a plurality of effect modes (for example, a normal effect mode and a chance effect mode) is performed (S2508). Further, the determined effect mode is set in the effect mode storage area.

  If the command stored in the reception buffer is not an effect designating command (NO in S2506), the sub CPU 120a checks whether or not the command stored in the receiving buffer is a variation pattern specifying command (S2509). ).

  If the command stored in the reception buffer is a variation pattern designation command (YES in S2509), the sub CPU 120a acquires one random value from the updated effect random value 1, and the acquired effect random value 1. Based on the received variation pattern designation command and the effect mode set in the effect mode storage area, a variation effect pattern determination process for determining one variation effect pattern from a plurality of variation effect patterns is performed (S2510). .

  Thereafter, based on the effect pattern, the liquid crystal display device 31, the audio output device 32, the effect drive device 33, and the effect illumination device 34 are controlled. Note that the variation mode of the effect design 38 is determined based on the variation effect pattern determined here.

  If the command stored in the reception buffer is not a variation pattern designation command (NO in S2509), the sub CPU 120a checks whether or not the command stored in the reception buffer is a symbol determination command (S2511). .

  If the command stored in the reception buffer is a symbol confirmation command (YES in S2511), the sub CPU 120a transmits a stop designation command for stopping and displaying the effect symbol to stop the effect symbol 38 to be transmitted to the sub RAM 120c. The effect symbol stop process set in the buffer is performed (S2512).

  If the command stored in the reception buffer is not a symbol confirmation command (NO in S2511), the sub CPU 120a determines whether or not the command stored in the reception buffer is a gaming state designation command (S2513). .

  If the command stored in the reception buffer is a gaming state designation command (YES in S2513), the sub CPU 120a stores data indicating the gaming state based on the received gaming state designation command in the gaming state storage area in the sub RAM 120c. The setting is made (S2514).

  If the command stored in the reception buffer is not a gaming state designation command (NO in S2513), the sub CPU 120a checks whether or not the command stored in the reception buffer is an opening command (S2515).

  If the command stored in the reception buffer is an opening command (YES in S2515), the sub CPU 120a performs a hit start effect pattern determination process for determining a hit start effect pattern (S2516).

  Specifically, the hit start effect pattern is determined based on the opening command, the determined hit start effect pattern is set in the effect pattern storage area, and information on the determined hit start effect pattern is controlled by the image control board 150 and the lamp control. In order to transmit to the board 140, an effect pattern designation command based on the determined hit start effect pattern is set in the transmission buffer of the sub RAM 120c.

  If the command stored in the reception buffer is not an opening command (NO in S2515), the sub CPU 120a determines that the command stored in the reception buffer is the first grand prize winning port 16 and / or the second big winning prize port 17. It is confirmed whether or not it is a special winning opening opening designation command for instructing opening (S2517).

  If the command stored in the reception buffer is a big winning opening opening designation command (YES in S2517), the sub CPU 120a performs a jackpot effect pattern determination process for determining a jackpot effect pattern (S2518).

  Specifically, the jackpot effect pattern is determined based on the big prize opening opening designation command, the determined jackpot effect pattern is set in the effect pattern storage area, and information on the determined jackpot effect pattern is stored in the image control board 150 and the lamp. In order to transmit to the control board 140, an effect pattern designation command based on the determined jackpot effect pattern is set in the transmission buffer of the sub RAM 120c.

  If the command stored in the reception buffer is not a special winning opening opening designation command (NO in S2517), the sub CPU 120a checks whether the command stored in the reception buffer is an ending command (S2519). ).

  If the command stored in the reception buffer is an ending command (YES in S2519), the sub CPU 120a performs a hit end effect pattern determination process for determining a hit end effect pattern (S2520).

  Specifically, the winning end effect pattern is determined based on the ending command, the determined winning end effect pattern is set in the effect pattern storage area, and information on the determined hit end effect pattern is controlled by the image control board 150 and the lamp control. In order to transmit to the board 140, an effect pattern designation command based on the determined hit end effect pattern is set in the transmission buffer of the sub-RAM 120c.

  If it is not any command (NO in S2519), the command analysis process is terminated by terminating this process.

  FIG. 27 is a flowchart showing a detailed flow of control processing performed in the liquid crystal control CPU 150a of the gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment.

  When power is supplied from the power supply board 170, a system reset occurs in the liquid crystal control CPU 150a, and the liquid crystal control CPU 150a performs the following control process.

  The liquid crystal control CPU 150a performs an initialization process (S2701).

  In this initialization process, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a reads the main processing program from the liquid crystal control ROM 150c and instructs the initial settings of the various modules of the liquid crystal control CPU 150a and the VDP 2000 when the power is turned on.

  Here, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a, as an instruction for initial setting of the VDP 2000, (1) instructs the display circuit constituting the VDP 2000 to create and output a video signal, and therefore instructs the display of the video signal (display). (1) is set to 0 bit of the register), and (2) image data development area (arbitrary area) of VRAM 153 is used for image data (image data such as production symbol 38) frequently used in the decompression circuit constituting VDP2000. In order to expand and expand to 153b, predetermined initial value data is set in the expansion register, or (3) initial value image data (such as a character image “power on”) is drawn in the drawing circuit constituting the VDP2000 Output the initial value display list.

  Subsequently, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a performs a drawing execution start process (S2702).

  In this drawing execution start process, drawing execution start data is set in the drawing register in order to instruct VDP 2000 to execute drawing on the display list that has already been output.

  That is, at the start of power-on, execution of drawing for the initial value display list output in S2701 is instructed, and during normal routine processing, execution of drawing for the display list is instructed.

  Next, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a performs effect pattern designation command analysis processing for analyzing the effect pattern designation command (command stored in the reception buffer of the liquid crystal control RAM 150b) transmitted from the effect control board 120 (S2703).

  When the liquid crystal control CPU 150a receives a command transmitted from the effect control board 120, a command reception interrupt process of the image control board 150 (not shown) occurs, and the received command is stored in the reception buffer. Thereafter, analysis control processing of the received command is performed.

The effect pattern designation command analysis control process confirms whether or not an effect pattern designation command is stored in the reception buffer. If the effect pattern designation command is not stored in the reception buffer, the process is continued. If the effect pattern designation command is stored in the reception buffer, a process of reading a new effect pattern designation command is performed.
The liquid crystal control CPU 150a determines one or a plurality of animation groups to be executed based on the read effect pattern designation command, and determines an animation pattern from each animation group.

  When determining the animation pattern, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a deletes the read effect pattern designation command from the transmission buffer.

  Next, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a performs an animation control process (S2704).

  In this animation control process, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a converts the “scene switching counter”, “weight frame”, and “frame counter” to be updated, which will be described later, and the animation pattern determined by the process as described above. Based on this, the addresses of various animation scenes are updated.

  Next, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a determines whether or not the animation pattern determined in S2703 includes an animation pattern in which the above-described dummy data of “instruction information” is set (S2705).

  In S2705, if the liquid crystal control CPU 150a determines that there is an animation pattern for which “instruction information” dummy data is set (YES in S2705), the process proceeds to S2706, and the “instruction information” dummy data is set. If it is determined that there is no animation pattern that has been set (NO in step S2705), the process advances to step S2707.

The liquid crystal control CPU 150a generates a display list from the display information (sprite identification number, display position, etc.) of one frame of the animation scene at the updated address according to the priority order (drawing order) of the animation group to which the animation scene belongs. When the generation of the display list is completed, the display list is transferred to the VDP 2000 (S2706, S2707).
The display list transferred here is stored in the display list storage area 153a of the VRAM 153 via a CPU I / F (not shown) in the VDP 2000.

  In S2706, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a does not specify an animation pattern having a lower priority (a higher z value) than an animation pattern including dummy data among the previously determined animation patterns, and specifies other animation patterns. A display list is generated and transferred to the VDP 2000.

  In step S2707, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a generates a display list in which all the previously determined animation patterns are designated and transfers the generated display list to the VDP 2000.

  Then, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a determines whether or not the FB switching flag = 01 (S2708).

  Here, as will be described later, the FB switching flag is equal to FB switching flag = 01 if drawing of the previous display list is completed in the V blank interrupt every 1/60 seconds (about 16.6 ms). become. That is, it is determined whether or not the previous drawing has been completed.

  If the FB switching flag is “01” (YES in S2708), the liquid crystal control CPU 150a sets the FB switching flag to “00” (turns the FB switching flag off) (S2709), and ends the process.

  On the other hand, if the FB switching flag is “00” (NO in S2708), the process waits until the FB switching flag becomes “01”.

  Next, FIG. 28 is a flowchart showing a detailed flow of an interrupt process performed in the liquid crystal control CPU 150a of the gaming machine 1 in the present embodiment.

  In the interrupt process of the liquid crystal control CPU 150a, a drawing end interrupt process performed by inputting a drawing end interrupt signal, a V blank interrupt process performed by inputting a V blank interrupt signal, and a command are received. And at least a command reception interrupt process.

  The drawing end interrupt process and the V blank interrupt process will be described with reference to FIG. 28, but the command reception interrupt process is not described because it is as described above.

  FIG. 28A is a flowchart showing a detailed flow of a drawing end interrupt process performed in the liquid crystal control CPU 150a of the gaming machine 1 in the present embodiment.

  When the drawing of image data of a predetermined number of frames (predetermined unit) is completed, the VDP 2000 outputs a drawing end interrupt signal to the liquid crystal control CPU 150a.

  When the drawing end interrupt signal is input from the VDP 2000, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a executes a drawing end interrupt process.

  In the drawing end interrupt process, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a sets the drawing end flag = 01 (turns on the drawing end flag), and ends the current drawing end interrupt process (S2801). That is, the drawing end flag is turned on every time drawing ends.

  FIG. 28B is a flowchart showing a detailed flow of the V blank interruption process performed in the liquid crystal control CPU 150a of the gaming machine 1 in the present embodiment.

  The VDP 2000 outputs a V blank interrupt signal (vertical synchronization signal) to the liquid crystal control CPU 150a every 1/60 seconds (about 16.6 ms).

  When the liquid crystal control CPU 150a receives a V blank interrupt signal from the VDP 2000, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a executes a V blank interrupt process.

  Further, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a performs processing for updating various counters such as “scene switching counter”, “wait frame”, and “frame counter” (S2802), and determines whether or not the drawing end flag = 01 (S2803). ).

  That is, it is determined whether drawing of image data of a predetermined number of frames (predetermined unit) has been completed.

  When determining that the “drawing end flag” is “01” (YES in S2803), the liquid crystal control CPU 150a sets “00” in the “drawing end flag” (that is, turns off the drawing end flag). ) (S2804).

  If the “drawing end flag” is not “01” (NO in S2803), the current V blank interrupt process is terminated. That is, even if a V blank interrupt signal is input, the subsequent processing is not performed unless drawing is completed.

  Subsequently, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a gives an instruction to switch between the “display frame buffer” and the “drawing frame buffer” to the memory controller provided in the VDP 2000 (S2805).

  Specifically, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a performs a process of incrementing to the first bit of the display register (a process of adding “1”).

  Then, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a sets “01” to the “FB switching flag” (turns on the FB switching flag) (S2806), cancels the standby state, and ends the V blank interrupt processing.

  The embodiment described above is an embodiment of the present invention, and is not limited to this embodiment, and can be appropriately modified and implemented without departing from the scope of the invention.

31 Liquid crystal display device 110 Main control board 120 Production control board 150a Liquid crystal control CPU
150b Liquid crystal control RAM
150c LCD control ROM
151 CGROM
153 VRAM
2000 VDP

Claims (2)

When the change display of the symbol is executed and the result of the change display becomes a special result, a special game can be executed, and the image data drawn in the display storage area with the change display is displayed as an effect image on the display unit. A gaming machine,
Drawing control means for controlling the drawing of the image data in the display storage area;
Storage means for storing a plurality of types of effect information for determining an effect using the effect image;
Effect information determining means for determining a plurality of effect information from a plurality of types of effect information stored in the storage means;
Determining means for determining whether or not specific effect information is included in the plurality of effect information determined by the effect information determining means;
Drawing content information generating means for generating drawing content information for determining the drawing content to be drawn by the drawing control means based on the effect information determined by the effect information determining means,
In the plurality of types of effect information, a priority order for drawing the image data in the display storage area is set higher than that of the specific effect information, and the display unit varies in accordance with the symbol variable display. Production information of the production design to be displayed is included,
The drawing control means includes
Drawing the image data in the display storage area based on the drawing content information generated by the drawing content information generating means;
The drawing content information generating means includes:
When it is determined by the determining means that the specific effect information is not included in the plurality of effect information determined by the effect information determining means, based on the plurality of effect information, While generating drawing content information
When it is determined by the determining means that the specific effect information is included in the plurality of effect information determined by the effect information determining means, the specific information is included in the plurality of effect information. Based on the production information excluding the production information of the priority lower than the priority of the production information of the production information of the drawing,
The production design is
When the image data is drawn in the display storage area based on the drawing content information generated from the production information that does not include the specific production information, while being displayed in the first display mode on the display unit,
When the image data is drawn in the display storage area based on the drawing content information generated from the production information including the specific production information, a second display different from the first display mode is displayed on the display unit. A gaming machine characterized by being displayed in an aspect. When the change display of the symbol is executed and the result of the change display becomes a special result, a special game can be executed, and the image data drawn in the display storage area with the change display is displayed as an effect image on the display unit. A gaming machine,
Drawing control means for controlling the drawing of the image data in the display storage area;
Storage means for storing a plurality of types of effect information for determining an effect using the effect image;
Effect information determining means for determining a plurality of effect information from a plurality of types of effect information stored in the storage means;
Determining means for determining whether or not specific effect information is included in the plurality of effect information determined by the effect information determining means;
Drawing content information generating means for generating drawing content information for determining the drawing content to be drawn by the drawing control means based on the effect information determined by the effect information determining means,
In the plurality of types of effect information, a priority order for drawing the image data in the display storage area is set higher than that of the specific effect information, and the display unit varies in accordance with the symbol variable display. Production information of the production design to be displayed is included,
The drawing control means includes
Drawing the image data in the display storage area based on the drawing content information generated by the drawing content information generating means;
The drawing content information generating means includes:
When it is determined by the determining means that the specific effect information is not included in the plurality of effect information determined by the effect information determining means, based on the plurality of effect information, While generating drawing content information
When it is determined by the determining means that the specific effect information is included in the plurality of effect information determined by the effect information determining means, the specific information is included in the plurality of effect information. Based on the production information excluding the production information of the priority lower than the priority of the production information of the production information of the drawing,
The production design is
When the image data is drawn in the display storage area based on the drawing content information generated from the production information that does not include the specific production information, while being displayed in a predetermined display mode on the display unit,
When the image data is drawn in the display storage area based on the drawing content information generated from the production information including the specific production information, the image data may be displayed in the predetermined display mode on the display unit. A gaming machine that is limited.