JP2015211920A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine capable of controlling a specific performance.SOLUTION: A game machine determines whether a special game is executed based on satisfaction of starting conditions, and can change a performance mode from a normal performance mode to a specific mode, based on satisfaction of predetermined conditions differing from the starting conditions. When it is determined that the special game is executed during the specific mode, a specific performance for reporting execution of the special game is performed during variation of a pattern. The game machine limits execution of the specific performance when switching between the normal mode and the specific mode during the variation of a pattern.

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine that determines whether or not to perform a special game based on establishment of a start condition.

  Conventionally, there is a gaming machine that shifts from a normal effect mode to a specific effect mode according to the establishment of a predetermined condition (for example, Patent Document 1).

JP2013-236817A

  However, in the conventional gaming machine, there is room for improvement in terms of improving interest in the specific performance mode that shifts when a predetermined condition is established.

  Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine capable of performing a highly interesting performance.

  The present invention employs the following configuration in order to solve the above problems.

  The gaming machine according to the present invention has a determination means for determining whether or not to perform a special game based on the establishment of the start condition, and changes the symbol to the symbol display means based on the determination result by the determination means. When the predetermined condition is satisfied, the symbol control means for notifying the determination result by the determination means, the effect control means for controlling the effect during the variation of the symbol based on the determination result by the determination means, And an effect mode switching means for switching from the normal effect mode to the specific effect mode, and the effect control means is not performed during the normal effect mode based on the determination result by the determination means, and the specific When the specific effect is executed, the specific effect executing means capable of executing the specific effect suggesting that the special game is performed, which is an effect performed during the effect mode. Serial including a description image display unit capable of displaying a description image to explain that there is a high possibility that the special game is performed.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to produce a highly entertaining performance.

Schematic front view of pachinko machine 1 Schematic plan view showing a part of the pachinko gaming machine 1 Enlarged view of the display 4 in FIG. The block diagram which shows the structural example of the control apparatus of the pachinko gaming machine 1 The figure which shows the breakdown of the jackpot design which is selected according to the winning to each start opening The figure which shows the contents of the jackpot game corresponding to each jackpot symbol in FIG. 5, and the game state after the jackpot game The flowchart which shows an example of the main process performed by the game control part 100 Detailed flowchart of the start port switch process in step S2 of FIG. Detailed flowchart of gate switch processing in step S3 of FIG. Detailed flowchart showing the special symbol processing of step S4 in FIG. The flowchart which shows the detail of the jackpot determination process of step S407 of FIG. The flowchart which shows the detail of the fluctuation pattern setting process of step S408 of FIG. FIG. 10 is a detailed flowchart showing the stop process in step S416. Detailed flowchart showing the normal symbol processing of step S5 of FIG. Detailed flowchart showing the special winning opening process of step S6 of FIG. Detailed flowchart showing the game state setting processing of step S618 of FIG. Detailed flowchart of the electric tulip process of FIG. The figure which shows the normal mode and specific mode of the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment The figure which shows specific BGM output during the time of specific mode and specific mode Diagram for explaining the effects during the specific mode and normal mode A figure showing a specific effect and a suggestive effect before the specific effect The figure which shows the presence or absence of the suggestion production and the specific production in each production mode The figure which shows an example of the image displayed on the liquid crystal display 5 in normal mode and specific mode The figure which shows an example of the flow of the production | presentation at the time of transfering from normal mode to specific mode The figure which shows the flow of the production when it is determined to be a big hit in the special symbol determination during the specific mode The figure which shows the flow of the production when it is determined to be a big hit in the special symbol determination during the specific mode It is a figure which shows the flow of the effect at the time of determining with a special symbol determination in specific mode, and shows the effect which follows FIG.25 (C) or (D). It is a figure which shows the flow of the effect when a specific effect is not performed when it is determined that it is a big hit in the special symbol determination during the specific mode, and shows an example of the effect that follows FIG. 25 (D) The figure for demonstrating the priority of the display of each image in the normal mode for displaying the effect mentioned above in the liquid crystal display 5, and a specific mode The figure which shows an example of the fluctuation pattern selected when it is determined that it is jackpot in the special symbol determination The figure which shows an example of presentation control when the same fluctuation pattern is selected by normal mode and specific mode Diagram showing the outline of voice control during normal mode and specific mode Diagram showing button effects during normal mode and specific mode The figure which compared the frequency with which the production | presentation using the production | production button 26 appeared in specific mode, and the frequency with which the production | production using the production | production button 26 appeared in normal mode. The figure which shows a mode that execution of a specific effect is prohibited at the timing of switching between normal mode and specific mode The flowchart which shows an example of the timer interruption process performed in the production | presentation control part 130 36 is a flowchart showing an example of command reception processing in step S1001 of FIG. The flowchart which shows an example of the timer interruption process by the image sound control part 140 Flowchart showing an example of the measurement process in step S1402 Flowchart illustrating an example of the specific mode control process in step S1406 Flowchart illustrating an example of command processing A in step S1436 The flowchart which shows an example of the normal mode control process of step S1407 Flowchart illustrating an example of command processing B in step S1461 The figure for demonstrating the setting of the position and size of the display area 54

  Hereinafter, a pachinko gaming machine 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings as appropriate.

[Example of schematic configuration of pachinko gaming machine 1]
First, a schematic configuration of the pachinko gaming machine 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2. Here, FIG. 1 is a schematic front view of the pachinko gaming machine 1. FIG. 2 is a schematic plan view showing a part of the pachinko gaming machine 1. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the pachinko gaming machine 1 is provided with a game board 2 provided with an accessory related to winning or determination (lottery), and a frame member 3 surrounding the game board 2. The frame member 3 supports a transparent glass plate arranged in parallel with the game board 2 at a predetermined interval. The glass board and the game board 2 form a game area 10 in which a game ball can flow down. Has been.

  When the player grasps the handle 20 and rotates the lever 21 in the clockwise direction, the game balls stored in the upper plate 28 are guided to the launching device (not shown), and with a hitting force according to the rotation angle of the lever 21. Fired into the game area 10. This game area 10 is provided with game nails, windmills, etc. (not shown), and the launched game balls are guided to the upper position in the game area 10 and contacted with the game nails, windmills, etc. It falls along the game board 2 while changing the moving direction. Note that the game ball is temporarily stopped when the player operates the stop button 22.

  The upper plate 28 stores game balls and prize balls supplied to the launching device. Below the upper plate 28, a lower plate 29 for collecting prize balls is provided. When the player operates the take-out button 23 arranged close to the lower plate 29, a part of the lower surface of the lower plate 29 is opened, and the game balls accumulated in the lower plate 29 are arranged below the lower plate 29. Drop into a box not shown.

  When the player performs a so-called “left strike” in which the lever 21 is rotated at a small rotation angle, the game ball is launched with a relatively weak hitting force. In this case, the game ball flows down the left area in the game area 10 as exemplified by the arrow 31. On the other hand, when the player performs a so-called “right strike” in which the lever 21 is rotated at a large rotation angle, the game ball is launched with a relatively strong hitting force. In this case, the game ball flows down the right region in the game region 10 as illustrated by the arrow 32.

  A first starting port 11, a second starting port 12, two normal winning ports 14, a first gate 15, and an electric tulip 17 are provided in the passing path of the left-handed game ball as a prize and a winning combination. It has been. In addition, in the passing path of the right-handed game ball, the second starting port 12, the big winning port 13, the two normal winning ports 14, the second gate 16, and the electric tulip are used as a prize and a winning combination. 17 is provided.

  The game ball launched into the game area 10 enters the first start port 11, the second start port 12, the big winning port 13, and the normal winning port 14 in the process of flowing down along the game board 2. And win. As a result, a predetermined number of prize balls corresponding to the winning location are paid out to the upper plate 28 or the lower plate 29. The game balls that have not won a prize are discharged from the game area 10 through the discharge port 18.

  The first start port 11 as the first start region is a start port that is always open, and the second start port 12 as the second start region is operating the electric tulip 17 as a normal electric accessory. It is a starting port that is opened only when it is open. In the pachinko gaming machine 1, when a game ball wins through the first start port 11, or when a game ball wins through the second start port 12, a jackpot game (special game) advantageous to the player Is determined, and the determination result is displayed on the display 4 described later.

  In the following description, the determination executed on condition that a game ball wins the first start port 11 is referred to as “first special symbol determination”, and the game ball wins on the second start port 12 is a condition. The determination to be executed is referred to as “second special symbol determination”, and these determinations (lottery) are collectively referred to as “special symbol determination (special symbol lottery)”.

  The special winning opening 13 is a special winning area that is opened according to the result of the special symbol determination. A plate for opening and closing the big prize opening 13 is provided at the opening of the big prize opening 13. The special winning opening 13 is normally closed by this plate. On the other hand, when a predetermined jackpot symbol indicating that the determination result of the special symbol determination is “big jackpot” is stopped and displayed on the display 4, the jackpot game in which the above-mentioned plate is operated to open the jackpot 13. Is executed. For this reason, the player can obtain more prize balls by making a right hit during the jackpot game compared to when the jackpot game is not being played.

  The electric tulip 17 is disposed close to the second starting port 12 and has a pair of blade members. The electric tulip 17 is configured to change its posture between a closed posture (see FIG. 1) in which the pair of blade members closes the second starting port 12 and an open posture (not shown) in which the second starting port 12 is opened. ing.

  As illustrated in FIG. 1, the second start port 12 is normally closed by an electric tulip 17. On the other hand, when the game ball passes through the first gate 15 or the second gate 16, it is determined whether or not the second start port 12 is to be opened although the prize ball is not paid out. Here, when it is determined that the second start port 12 is to be opened, the operation of returning to the closed posture after the pair of blade members of the electric tulip 17 has maintained the open posture for the specified time is performed a predetermined number of times. As described above, the second start port 12 is in a state in which it is difficult for the game ball to pass when the electric tulip 17 is not operated, whereas the game ball is easily passed by the operation of the electric tulip 17. Become. In the following description, the determination (lottery) executed on the condition that the game ball passes through the first gate 15 or the second gate 16 is referred to as “normal symbol determination (lottery)”.

  The normal winning opening 14 is always open like the first start opening 11 and is a winning opening through which a predetermined number of winning balls are paid out by winning a game ball. Unlike the first starting port 11 and the like, even if a game ball wins the normal winning port 14, no determination (lottery) is performed.

[Configuration example of presentation means of pachinko gaming machine 1]
As illustrated in FIG. 1, the game board 2 or the frame member 3 has various effects such as a liquid crystal display 5, a movable accessory 7, a speaker 24, a panel lamp 25, and a rotation effect device 38, 39 is provided. Further, the frame member 3 incorporates a frame lamp 37 (see FIG. 4) not shown in FIG.

  The liquid crystal display 5 is an image display device that displays an effect image, and is provided at a position that can be easily viewed by a player. The liquid crystal display 5 includes various display objects such as a decorative symbol for notifying the determination result of the special symbol determination, a character or item for performing a notice effect, a reserved image displayed as many as the number of special symbol determinations being held. An effect image including is displayed. Note that the image display device may be configured by another image display device such as an EL display device.

  The movable accessory 7 is configured to be movable with respect to the game board 2 and performs various effects, for example, by moving in a predetermined direction or by causing a built-in light emitting element (for example, LED) to emit light. . The movable accessory 7 operates according to the winning of the game ball to the first start port 11 or the second start port 12.

  The panel lamp 25 and the frame lamp 37 perform various effects by light, such as changing a lighting or blinking pattern and changing a light emission color. The rotation effect devices 38 and 39 perform various effects by using a built-in light emitting element and a rotating body that rotates around the light emitting element. The speaker 24 produces a sound effect by outputting music, sound, sound effects and the like so as to synchronize with the display effect performed on the liquid crystal display 5.

[Configuration example of operation means of the pachinko gaming machine 1]
As illustrated in FIG. 2, the frame member 3 is provided with an effect button 26 and an effect key 27 as operation means operated by the player. The effect button 26 is a push button for inputting operation information when pressed by the player. The effect button 26 is configured to protrude upward by a drive mechanism (not shown), and is configured such that the upper surface protrudes more than usual when the effect using the effect button 26 is executed. The effect key 27 is a so-called cross key for the player to perform a selection operation. In the pachinko gaming machine 1, there is a case where an effect corresponding to the operation of the effect button 26 or the effect key 27 is performed.

[Configuration Example of Display 4]
FIG. 3 is an enlarged view of the display 4 in FIG. The display 4 mainly displays information related to special symbol determination and normal symbol determination. As illustrated in FIG. 3, the first special symbol display 41, the second special symbol display 42, the first A special symbol hold indicator 43, a second special symbol hold indicator 44, a normal symbol indicator 45, a normal symbol hold indicator 46, a game state indicator 47, a round indicator 48 and the like are configured.

  When the first special symbol determination is performed, the first special symbol display 41 displays the determination symbol indicating the determination result of the first special symbol determination after variably displaying the symbol, thereby displaying the first special symbol determination. The determination result is notified. When the second special symbol determination is performed, the second special symbol display 42 displays the determination symbol indicating the determination result of the second special symbol determination after variably displaying the symbol, thereby displaying the second special symbol determination. The determination result is notified. In the first special symbol display 41 and the second special symbol display 42, as a determination symbol, a jackpot symbol indicating that the determination result of the special symbol determination is “big hit”, or the determination result of the special symbol determination is “losing” ”Is stopped and displayed.

  The first special symbol hold indicator 43 displays the number of holds for the first special symbol determination. The second special symbol hold indicator 44 displays the number of holds for the second special symbol determination.

  When the normal symbol determination is performed, the normal symbol display 45 notifies the determination result of the normal symbol determination by suspending and displaying the determination symbol indicating the determination result of the normal symbol determination after variably displaying the symbol. The normal symbol hold display 46 displays the number of holds for normal symbol determination. The game state display 47 displays the game state at the time when the power of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is turned on. When the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 41 or the second special symbol display 42, the round indicator 48 displays the number of rounds of the jackpot game.

  In the following description, the symbols displayed on the first special symbol display 41 are called “first special symbols”, and the symbols displayed on the second special symbol display 42 are called “second special symbols”. Are collectively referred to as “special symbols”. Further, the symbol displayed on the normal symbol display 45 is referred to as “ordinary symbol”.

[Configuration of control device of pachinko gaming machine 1]
On the back side of the game board 2, a control device for controlling the operation of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is provided in addition to a ball tank for storing game balls to be paid out as prize balls.

  Hereinafter, the configuration of the control device of the pachinko gaming machine 1 will be described with reference to FIG. Here, FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of the control device of the pachinko gaming machine 1. As shown in FIG. 4, the control device of the pachinko gaming machine 1 includes a game control unit 100 that controls execution of determination (lottery), control of a jackpot game, command transmission processing to the effect control unit 130, and the game control unit. An effect control unit 130 that comprehensively controls effects based on commands received from 100, an image sound control unit 140 that controls effects by images and sounds, and lamp control that controls effects by various lamps and movable accessories 7 Part 150 is provided. In addition to the one shown in FIG. 4, the pachinko gaming machine 1 also includes a payout control unit (not shown) that controls the payout of prize balls.

[Configuration of Game Control Unit 100]
The game control unit 100 includes a CPU 101, a ROM 102, and a RAM 103. Based on the program stored in the ROM 102, the CPU 101 performs various arithmetic processes related to the number of payout prize balls such as internal lottery and determination of winning. The RAM 103 is used as a storage area for temporarily storing various data used when the CPU 101 executes the program, or a work area for data processing.

  The game control unit 100 includes a first start port switch (SW) 111, a second start port switch (SW) 112, an electric tulip opening / closing unit 113, a first gate switch (SW) 114, and a second gate switch (SW) 115. The prize winning opening switch (SW) 116, the prize winning opening control unit 117, the normal prize winning opening switch (SW) 118, and the display 4 are connected.

  The first start port switch 111 detects that a game ball has won the first start port 11 and outputs a detection signal to the game control unit 100. The second start port switch 112 detects that a game ball has won the second start port 12 and outputs a detection signal to the game control unit 100. The electric tulip opening / closing unit 113 opens and closes the second start port 12 by operating an electric solenoid coupled to the pair of blade members of the electric tulip 17 so as to be able to transmit driving in response to a control signal from the game control unit 100. To do. The first gate switch 114 detects that the game ball has passed through the gate 15 and outputs a detection signal to the game control unit 100. The second gate switch 115 detects that the game ball has passed through the gate 16 and outputs a detection signal to the game control unit 100. The big prize opening switch 116 detects that the game ball has won the big prize opening 13 and outputs a detection signal to the game control unit 100. In response to a control signal from the game control unit 100, the special prize opening control unit 117 opens and closes the special prize opening 13 by operating an electric solenoid coupled to a plate that closes the special prize opening 13 so as to be able to transmit driving. To do. The normal winning port switch 118 detects that the game ball has won the normal winning port 14 and outputs a detection signal to the game control unit 100.

  When the detection signal from the first start port switch 111, the second start port switch 112, the big winning port switch 116, or the normal winning port switch 118 is input, the CPU 101 of the game control unit 100 receives the place where the game ball has won a prize. The payout control unit is instructed to pay out a predetermined number of prize balls according to the number, and the number of prize balls to be paid out is managed based on information from the payout control unit.

  The CPU 101 acquires a random number at the timing when the detection signal from the first start port switch 111 is input, and executes the first special symbol determination using the acquired random number. Further, the CPU 101 acquires a random number at the timing when the detection signal from the second start port switch 112 is input, and executes the second special symbol determination using the acquired random number. When the result of the special symbol determination is a big hit, the special game is executed by opening and closing the special winning opening 13 through the special winning opening control section 117. In addition, the CPU 101 acquires a random number at the timing when the detection signal from the gate switch 114 or 115 is input, and executes normal symbol determination using the acquired random number. And if the result of normal symbol determination is successful, the 2nd start port 12 will be temporarily opened by operating the electric tulip 17 via the electric tulip opening / closing part 113.

  In addition, the CPU 101 transmits information indicating the start and stop of variation of the special symbol to the effect control unit 130. In addition, the CPU 101 transmits information regarding the variation setting of the winning probability of the special symbol lottery and the variation setting of the winning probability of the normal symbol lottery to the effect control unit 130. In addition, the CPU 101 transmits, to the effect control unit 130, data indicating the special symbol variation time reduction setting, information for notifying the first start port 11 or the second start port 12 that the game ball has won. .

  In addition, the CPU 101 executes the following processing on the display device 4. That is, when the CPU 101 executes the first special symbol determination, the special symbol is variably displayed on the first special symbol display 41 and then the special symbol indicating the determination result is stopped and displayed. In addition, when the CPU 101 executes the second special symbol determination, the special symbol is variably displayed on the second special symbol display 42 and then the special symbol indicating the determination result is stopped and displayed. Further, when the normal symbol determination is executed, the CPU 101 displays the normal symbol on the normal symbol display unit 45 in a variable manner, and then stops and displays the normal symbol indicating the determination result.

  Further, the CPU 101 displays the number of holdings for the first special symbol determination on the first special symbol holding display 43, displays the number of holdings for the second special symbol determination on the second special symbol holding display 44, and determines the normal symbol determination. Is displayed on the normal symbol hold indicator 46. Further, the CPU 101 causes the gaming state display 47 to display the gaming state of the pachinko gaming machine 1. Further, the CPU 101 causes the round indicator 48 to display the number of rounds of the jackpot game.

[Configuration of Production Control Unit 130]
The effect control unit 130 includes a CPU 131, a ROM 132, a RAM 133, and an RTC (real time clock) 134. Based on the program stored in the ROM 132, the CPU 131 performs a calculation process when controlling the effect. The RAM 133 is used as a storage area for temporarily storing various data used when the CPU 131 executes the program, or as a work area for data processing. The RTC 134 measures the current date and time.

  The production control unit 130 sets the production content based on data indicating the result of the special symbol determination and the like sent from the game control unit 100. In that case, the input of the operation information from the production | presentation button 26 or the production | presentation key 27 is received, and the production | generation content according to the operation information may be set. The effect control unit 130 transmits a command instructing execution of the effect of the set effect contents to the image sound control unit 140 and the lamp control unit 150.

[Configuration of Image Sound Control Unit 140]
The image sound control unit 140 includes a CPU 141, a ROM 142, and a RAM 143. Based on the program stored in the ROM 142, the CPU 141 performs arithmetic processing when controlling an image expressing the content of the effect. Although not shown in the figure, the image sound control unit 140 is a VDP (Video Display Processor) that generates an effect image displayed on the liquid crystal display 5 and an sound DSP that generates sound data output from the speaker 24. (Digital Signal Processor). The CPU 141 controls the operation of the VDP and the sound DSP by generating a control signal based on the command from the effect control unit 130 and the program stored in the ROM 142 and outputting it to the VDP and the sound DSP.

  Connected to the acoustic DSP are an acoustic ROM for storing various acoustic data related to music, voice, sound effects, etc., and an SDRAM used as a work area for data processing by the acoustic DSP. The acoustic DSP reads the acoustic data corresponding to the control signal from the CPU 141 from the acoustic ROM to the SDRAM, executes data processing, and outputs the acoustic data after the data processing to the speaker 24.

  The VDP includes an image ROM that stores material data necessary for generating the effect image, a drawing engine that executes the rendering process of the effect image, and an output circuit that outputs the effect image drawn by the drawing engine to the liquid crystal display 5. Have. The drawing engine draws the effect image in the frame buffer using the material data stored in the image ROM based on the control signal from the CPU 141. The output circuit outputs the effect image drawn in the frame buffer to the liquid crystal display 5 at a predetermined timing.

[Configuration of Lamp Controller 150]
The lamp control unit 150 includes a CPU 151, a ROM 152, and a RAM 153. The CPU 151 performs arithmetic processing when controlling the operation of the panel lamp 25, the frame lamp 37, and the movable accessory 7 based on the program stored in the ROM 152. The RAM 153 is used as a storage area for temporarily storing various data used when the CPU 151 executes the program, or a work area for data processing.

  The ROM 152 stores light emission pattern data and operation pattern data. Here, the light emission pattern data is data indicating the light emission patterns of the light emitting elements included in the frame lamp 37, the panel lamp 25, and the movable accessory 7. The motion pattern data is data indicating the motion pattern of the movable accessory 7.

  The CPU 151 reads the light emission pattern data corresponding to the command received from the effect control unit 130 from the light emission pattern data stored in the ROM 152 to the RAM 153, and the light emission of the panel lamp 25, the frame lamp 37, and the movable accessory 7. Controls the light emission of the device. Further, the CPU 151 reads out the operation pattern data corresponding to the command received from the effect control unit 130 from the operation pattern data stored in the ROM 152 to the RAM 153 and drives the motor for operating the movable accessory 7. Control.

[Description of gaming state]
Here, the gaming state of the pachinko gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment will be described. The gaming state includes a low-probability gaming state in which the probability of being determined to be a jackpot is a first probability (eg, 1/399), and a second probability in which the probability of being determined to be a jackpot is higher than the first probability. (For example, 1/40) is a high-probability gaming state (probability gaming state).

  In addition, the gaming state of the pachinko gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment includes a non-short-time gaming state and a short-time gaming state. The short-time gaming state has a relatively high probability of being determined to be a hit in the normal symbol determination as compared to the non-short-time gaming state (for example, 1 / 1.1). In the short-time gaming state, the opening time of the electric tulip 17 when determined to be a hit is relatively long (for example, 1.8 seconds × 3 times), and the variation time of the normal symbol is relatively short (for example, 2 seconds). That is, in the short-time gaming state, when the game ball passes through the gate 15 or the gate 16, a normal symbol determination is performed, and it is a hit with a relatively high probability, and the second start port 12 is opened for 1.8 seconds × 3 times. The game ball is easy to win. Also, in the short-time gaming state, the variation time of the special symbol is shortened compared to the non-short-time gaming state.

  On the other hand, the non-short game state has a relatively low probability of being determined to be a hit in the normal symbol determination (for example, 1/20) as compared to the short-time game state, and the electric tulip 17 in the case of being determined to be a win The opening time is relatively short (for example, 0.1 second × 1 time), and the normal symbol fluctuation time is relatively long (for example, 25 seconds). In other words, in the non-short game state, even if the normal symbol determination is performed when the game ball passes the gate 15 or the gate 16, the probability of winning is relatively low, and the second start port 12 is 0.1 seconds × Since the game ball is opened only once, it is difficult for the game ball to win the second start port 12.

  In the present embodiment, at the end of the jackpot game, the gaming machine 1 is set to a high-probability gaming state or a low-probability gaming state, and is set to a short-time gaming state or a non-short-time gaming state. Note that the low-probability gaming state and the non-short-time gaming state are referred to as “normal gaming state”, and the pachinko gaming machine 1 is initially set to the normal gaming state.

[Description of jackpot design]
Next, the jackpot symbol (type of jackpot) in the pachinko gaming machine 1 of this embodiment will be described.

  FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a breakdown of jackpot symbols selected in accordance with winning at each start opening. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing the contents of the jackpot game corresponding to each jackpot symbol in FIG. 5 and the game state after the jackpot game.

  As shown in FIG. 5 and FIG. 6, when a game ball wins the first starting port 11 and wins a big hit, any one of the jackpot symbol X1 to the jackpot symbol X10 is displayed on the first special symbol display 41. The game is stopped and a jackpot game (special game) corresponding to each jackpot symbol is played. Further, when a game ball is won at the second starting port 12 and a big hit is made, any one of the jackpot symbols Y1 to Y9 is stopped and displayed on the second special symbol display 42, and each jackpot symbol is displayed. A jackpot game (special game) is performed according to the game.

  Specifically, when the jackpot is won based on the winning to the first starting port 11, the jackpot symbol X1 stops at a rate of 3%, the jackpot symbol X2 stops at a rate of 52%, 2.5% The jackpot symbol X3 stops at a rate of 2%, the jackpot symbol X4 stops at a rate of 2%, the jackpot symbol X5 stops at a rate of 4%, and the jackpot symbol X6 stops at a rate of 1.5% The jackpot symbol X7 stops at a rate of 6%, the jackpot symbol X8 stops at a rate of 6%, the jackpot symbol X9 stops at a rate of 1%, and the jackpot symbol X10 stops at a rate of 23%.

  When the jackpot symbol X1 is stopped, as a jackpot game, 29.5 seconds after a predetermined condition (for example, until the number of game balls won in the jackpot 13 reaches 10 or the jackpot 13 is released). Until the time elapses), the long open round game in which the special winning opening 13 is opened is performed 13 times (13 rounds (denoted as “R”)). When the jackpot symbol X2 stops, a 7R long open round game is played as a jackpot game. After the jackpot symbol X1 or the jackpot symbol X2 is stopped and the jackpot game is played, the gaming machine 1 is controlled in a high-probability gaming state and a short-time gaming state until the next jackpot.

  The jackpot where the jackpot symbol X1 or X2 is stopped is a jackpot called “symbol matching jackpot”. Here, the symbol matching jackpot is a jackpot in which three decorative symbols displayed on the liquid crystal display 5 are aligned in the same kind. In the case of the symbol matching jackpot, the player can easily recognize the number of rounds in the jackpot game depending on the type of decorative symbols to be stopped. For example, if three symbols with “3” as a decorative symbol are arranged, 13R is a big hit, and if three symbols with “2” are arranged, 7R is a big winner.

  When the jackpot symbol X3 stops, a 13R long-opening round game is performed, when the jackpot symbol X4 stops, an 8R long-opening round game is performed, and when the jackpot symbol X5 stops, a 6R long-opening round game is performed. When the jackpot symbol X6 stops, a 4R long open round game is performed. After any of the jackpot symbols X3 to X6 stops and the jackpot game is played, the gaming machine 1 is controlled in a high probability game state and a short-time game state until the next jackpot.

  The jackpot at which any of the jackpot symbols X3 to X6 is stopped is a jackpot called "rank-up jackpot". Here, the rank-up jackpot is a jackpot that is notified when a specific decorative symbol is stopped on the liquid crystal display 5. Depending on the stopped decorative symbol, the player can easily determine the number of rounds in the jackpot game. Is not recognized. When any one of the jackpot symbols X3 to X6 is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 41, the number of rounds of the jackpot is not suggested by the liquid crystal display 5, and when the so-called initial hit is a rank-up jackpot, On the display unit 5, a special effect of rank-up jackpot is performed during the jackpot game. When any one of the jackpot symbols X3 to X6 is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 41, the number of rounds corresponding to the jackpot symbol is displayed on the round indicator 48. Based on the display of 48, the player can grasp the number of rounds for the rank-up jackpot. The same applies to the case where any of the jackpot symbols Y3 to Y6 corresponding to the rank-up jackpot is stopped and displayed on the second special symbol display 42.

  When the jackpot symbol X7 stops, a 12R short-open round game is performed. After the jackpot symbol X7 stops and the jackpot game is played, the gaming machine 1 is controlled in a high-probability gaming state and a non-short-time gaming state until the next jackpot. Here, the jackpot at which the jackpot symbol X7 stops may be referred to as “12R latent probability variation jackpot”. Note that in the 1R short-open round game of jackpot game with jackpot symbol X7, the winning prize opening 13 is opened for 0.01 seconds as described above, so the jackpot game with jackpot symbol X7 is actually a jackpot of “0R” In the 1R round game of the jackpot game with the jackpot symbol X7, the big winning opening 13 may be opened for a shorter time (for example, 1.5 seconds) than the long open round game.

  When the jackpot symbol X8 is stopped, the long open round game is not performed, and the short open round game is performed a plurality of times. Since the long open round game is not performed, the real R number that the player can substantially win the prize ball is “0” R. After the jackpot symbol X8 stops and the jackpot game is played, the gaming machine 1 is controlled in a high-probability gaming state and a short-time gaming state until the next jackpot. Here, the jackpot at which the jackpot symbol X8 stops may be referred to as “suddenly probable jackpot”.

  In addition, when the jackpot symbol X9 is stopped, a 4R long open round game is performed, and after the jackpot game is performed, the gaming machine 1 is controlled in a high-probability gaming state and a non-short-time gaming state until the next jackpot. The Here, the jackpot at which the jackpot symbol X9 stops may be referred to as “4R latent probability variation jackpot”.

  Further, when the jackpot symbol X10 stops, a 4R long open round game is performed, and after the jackpot game is performed, the gaming machine 1 is controlled in a low-probability gaming state and a non-time-short gaming state. That is, when the jackpot symbol X10 stops, the game shifts to the normal gaming state after the jackpot game. Here, the jackpot at which the jackpot symbol X10 stops may be referred to as “4R normal jackpot”.

  On the other hand, when a big hit is made based on the winning at the second starting port 12, the big hit symbol Y1 stops at a rate of 61%, the big hit symbol Y2 stops at a rate of 3%, and the big win symbol at a rate of 2% Y3 stops, jackpot symbol Y4 stops at a rate of 1%, jackpot symbol Y5 stops at a rate of 2%, jackpot symbol Y6 stops at a rate of 4%, jackpot symbol Y7 stops at a rate of 3% The jackpot symbol Y8 stops at a rate of 1%, and the jackpot symbol Y9 stops at a rate of 23%.

  When the jackpot symbol Y1 stops, a 16R long-open round game is performed during the jackpot game, and after the jackpot game, the game is controlled in the high-probability game state and the short-time game state until the next jackpot game. The jackpot at which the jackpot symbol Y1 is stopped is the above-described symbol matching jackpot.

  When the jackpot symbol Y2 stops, a 1R short open round game and a 15R long open round game are performed during the jackpot game. Specifically, in the first round, the operation of releasing the special winning opening 13 for 0.01 seconds is performed twice, and thereafter, the long open round game is performed in the second to sixteenth rounds. After the jackpot game, the game is controlled in the high probability gaming state and the short-time gaming state until the next jackpot.

  The jackpot where the jackpot symbol Y2 is stopped is a jackpot called “jump-up jackpot”. Here, the “jump-up jackpot” is a jackpot that is disadvantageous to the player immediately after the start of the jackpot game (a jackpot that ends the high-probability gaming state; a jackpot that stops the jackpot symbol Y9 described later) The action (the opening pattern and effect of the big winning opening 13) is performed, and at a predetermined timing thereafter, it is a big hit that is notified that it is a big hit advantageous to the player (a big hit that shifts to the high probability gaming state).

  Also, when the jackpot symbol Y3 stops, a 16R long open round game is performed, when the jackpot symbol Y4 stops, an 8R long open round game is performed, and when the jackpot symbol Y5 stops, a 6R long open round game is performed, When the jackpot symbol Y6 stops, a 4R long open round game is performed. After any of the jackpot symbols Y3 to Y6 stops and the jackpot game is played, the game is controlled in the high probability gaming state and the short-time gaming state until the next jackpot. The jackpot where the jackpot symbols Y3 to Y6 stop is the rank-up jackpot described above.

  When any of the jackpot symbols Y3 to Y6 is stopped and displayed on the second special symbol display 42, the number of rounds of the jackpot is not suggested by the liquid crystal display 5, and in this embodiment, the liquid crystal display during the opening of the jackpot game The opening effect performed at 5 suggests the number of round-up jackpot rounds (whether it is a 16R rank-up jackpot or not).

  In other embodiments, the following configuration may be adopted for rank-up jackpots. In other words, when one of the jackpot symbols X3 to X6 or the jackpot symbol Y3 to Y6 is stopped or displayed, or the opening of the jackpot game does not suggest the number of rounds, does the round game continue in a predetermined round during the jackpot game? You may make it perform the effect of no.

  Further, the round indicator 48 may indicate the same “16R” regardless of which jackpot symbol of the jackpot symbol X3 to X6 or the jackpot symbol Y3 to Y6 is stopped. When such a configuration is adopted, it becomes difficult for the player to know the number of rounds of the rank-up jackpot based on the display mode of the round indicator 48, so the player knows the number of rounds before the start of the jackpot game. By doing so, it is possible to suppress the awakening to the effect during the jackpot game. Thus, if the round indicator 48 indicates “16R” regardless of which jackpot symbol corresponding to the rank-up jackpot is stopped, 16 round games will be performed regardless of which jackpot symbol is stopped. Therefore, the round game is composed of a long open round game and a short open round game. For example, in the case of a substantial 13R rank-up jackpot that is started when the jackpot symbol X3 is stopped and displayed, for example, after 13 long-opening round games are performed, 3 (= 16-13) short-opening round games are performed. Will be done. Also, for example, in the case of a substantial 6R rank-up jackpot that starts when the jackpot symbol Y5 is stopped and displayed, for example, after six long-opening round games are performed, 10 (= 16-6) short-opening rounds A game will be played.

  When the jackpot symbol Y7 stops, a 2R short-open round game is performed during the jackpot game, and after the jackpot game, the game is controlled in a high-probability game state and a short-time game state until the next jackpot game. During the short-opening round game, the opening time of the big winning opening 13 is short, and game balls rarely win the big winning opening 13, so that the actual number of rounds indicating the number of winning balls that the player gets is “0” R It is.

  Also, when the jackpot symbol Y8 stops, a 2R short-open round game is performed during the jackpot game, and a predetermined period after the jackpot game (a period until the special symbol changes 10 times) is a high-probability gaming state and a short-time gaming state The game is controlled at. When the predetermined period has elapsed, the game is controlled in the high-probability gaming state and the non-time-saving gaming state until the next jackpot.

  Also, when the jackpot symbol Y9 stops, a 2R short open round game is played during the jackpot game, and a predetermined period after the jackpot game (a period until the special symbol changes ten times) is a low-probability gaming state and a short-time gaming state The game is controlled at. When the predetermined period elapses, the game state transitions to a normal gaming state (low probability gaming state and non-time saving gaming state).

[Main processing by game control unit 100]
Next, the main process executed by the game control unit 100 will be described with reference to FIG. Here, FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of main processing executed by the game control unit 100. The game control unit 100 repeats a series of processes shown in FIG. 7 at regular intervals (for example, 4 milliseconds) during normal operation except for special cases such as when the power is turned on and when the power is turned off. Run. Note that the processing of the game control unit 100 described based on the flowcharts of FIG. 7 and subsequent figures is performed by the CPU 101 executing a program stored in the ROM 102.

  First, the CPU 101 of the game control unit 100 executes a random number update process for updating various jackpot random numbers, symbol random numbers, reach random numbers, variation pattern random numbers, and normal symbol random numbers (step S1). Here, the jackpot random number is a random number for determining whether the result of the special symbol determination is a jackpot or a loss. The symbol random number is a random number for determining a jackpot symbol (type of jackpot) when the result of the special symbol determination is a jackpot. The reach random number is a random number for determining whether to perform an effect with reach or an effect without reach when the result of the special symbol determination is a loss. The fluctuation pattern random number is a random number for determining a fluctuation pattern (fluctuation time) when the special symbol is variably displayed. The normal symbol random number is a random number for determining whether the normal symbol lottery is won or lost. The jackpot random number, the design random number, the reach random number, the variation pattern random number, and the normal design random number vary within a predetermined range, and are incremented by “1” each time the process of step S1 is performed. In step S1, when each random number reaches a preset maximum value, each random number is reset to an initial value.

  Subsequent to step S1, the CPU 101 executes a start port switch (SW) process (step S2). In the start port switch process, the CPU 101 monitors whether or not a detection signal is input from the first start port switch 111 or the second start port switch 112, and each random number (big hit random number, For the design random number, the reach random number, and the variation pattern random number), values at the time when the detection signal is input are acquired and stored in the RAM 103. The starter switch process will be described in detail later with reference to FIG.

  Subsequent to step S2, the CPU 101 executes a gate switch (SW) process (step S3). In the gate switch process, the CPU 101 monitors whether or not a detection signal is input from the gate switch 114 or 115, and if a detection signal is input, acquires the value of the normal symbol random number updated in the process of step S1. And stored in the RAM 103. This gate switch processing will be described in detail later with reference to FIG.

  Subsequent to step S3, the CPU 101 executes special symbol processing (step S4). As will be described in detail later, in the special symbol process, whether or not the result of the special symbol determination is a big hit is determined. Further, the CPU 101 executes special symbol determination using the random number acquired in the start port switch process in step S2, and causes the first special symbol display 41 or the second special symbol display 42 to display the special symbols in a variable manner. The special symbol indicating the result of the special symbol determination is stopped and displayed. The special symbol process will be described later in detail with reference to FIG.

  Subsequent to step S4, the CPU 101 executes normal symbol processing (step S5). In the normal symbol process, the CPU 101 executes the normal symbol determination using the normal symbol random number acquired in the gate switch process of step S3, displays the normal symbol on the normal symbol display unit 45, and then displays the result of the normal symbol determination. The normal symbol indicating is stopped and displayed. The normal symbol processing will be described later in detail with reference to FIG.

  Subsequent to step S5, the CPU 101 executes a special winning opening process for opening and closing the special winning opening 13 through the special winning opening control unit 117 when the special symbol determination in the special symbol process in step S4 is a big hit. (Step S6). The special winning opening process will be described in detail later with reference to FIG.

  Subsequent to step S6, the CPU 101 executes electric tulip processing (step S7). In the electric tulip process, the CPU 101 operates the pair of blade members of the electric tulip 17 via the electric tulip opening / closing unit 113 when the normal symbol lottery in the normal symbol process in step S5 is won. The electric tulip process will be described later in detail with reference to FIG.

  Subsequent to step S7, the CPU 101 executes prize ball processing for managing the number of winning game balls and controlling payout of prize balls according to the prize (step S8). Specifically, when the game ball wins any one of the first starting port 11, the second starting port 12, the big winning port 13, and the normal winning port 14, the CPU 101 has the number of awards corresponding to the winning place. Pay out the ball. For example, the CPU 101 pays out three prize balls when a game ball is won at the first start port 11 or the second start port 12, and 15 prize balls when a game ball is won at the big prize port 13. Pay out.

  Subsequent to step S8, the CPU 101 executes output processing (step S9). In the output process of step S9, the CPU 101 transmits various commands set in the RAM 103 to the effect control unit 130 in the start opening switch process of step S2, the special symbol process of step S4, the big winning opening process of step S6, and the like.

[Start-up switch processing by game control unit 100]
Next, with reference to FIG. 8, the details of the start port switch process executed in the game control unit 100 will be described. Here, FIG. 8 is a detailed flowchart of the start port switch process in step S2 of FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 8, in step S201, the CPU 101 of the game control unit 100 determines whether or not the first start port switch 111 is “ON” (whether or not a game ball has won the first start port 11). Determine. Here, when it is determined that the first start port switch 111 is turned “ON” (step S201: YES), the number U1 of the first special symbol determination stored in the RAM 103 is stored in the ROM 102 in advance. It is determined whether or not it is less than the maximum reserved number Umax1 (for example, 4) for the first special symbol determination (step S202).

  When the CPU 101 determines that the hold number U1 is less than the maximum hold number Umax1 (step S202: YES), the CPU 101 updates the value of the hold number U1 to a value obtained by adding “1” (step S203). Then, the CPU 101 acquires values of various random numbers (big hit random number, symbol random number, reach random number, and variation pattern random number) updated by the processing in step S1, and stores them in the RAM 103 (step S204).

  Here, various random numbers acquired in response to the winning of a game ball at the first starting port 11 are stored in the RAM 103, so that the first special symbol related to the holding ball whose holding number U1 is increased in step S203. The right to make a decision will be withheld. As will be described in detail later, the reserved right for the first special symbol determination is digested in the special symbol processing in step S4, and the first special symbol is displayed in a variable manner and stopped after a predetermined time. The result of the first special symbol determination is notified.

  Subsequently, the CPU 101 executes pre-determination processing based on various random numbers stored in the RAM 103 in step S204 (step S205). The pre-determination process of step S205 is a determination process for the right of the first special symbol determination that is put on hold, and determines whether it is a big hit, a big win symbol, a variation pattern, etc., and generates pre-determination information indicating the determination result It is processing to do. Thereafter, the CPU 101 sets a hold command including the advance determination information in the RAM 103 (step S206). The hold command set in step S206 is a command for notifying that the first special symbol determination is put on hold, and is transmitted to the effect control unit 130 in the output process in step S9 of FIG. In the prior determination process in step S205, the various random numbers acquired in step S204 may be generated as they are as prior determination information, and the prior determination information may be included in the pending command.

  When it is determined “NO” in step S201, when it is determined “NO” in step S202, or when the process of step S206 is executed, the CPU 101 executes the process of step S207. In step S207, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the second start port switch 112 has been turned “ON” (whether or not a game ball has won the second start port 12). Here, when it is determined that the second start port switch 112 is “ON” (step S207: YES), the second special symbol determination hold number U2 stored in the RAM 103 is stored in the ROM 102 in advance. It is determined whether or not it is less than the maximum reserved number Umax2 (for example, 4) of the second special symbol determination (step S208).

  When the CPU 101 determines that the hold number U2 is less than the maximum hold number Umax2 (step S208: YES), the CPU 101 updates the value of the hold number U2 to a value obtained by adding “1” (step S209). Then, the CPU 101 acquires various random numbers (big hit random number, symbol random number, reach random number, and variation pattern random number) updated in the process of step S1, and stores them in the RAM 103 (step S210).

  Then, the CPU 101 uses the various random numbers stored in the RAM 103 by the process of step S210 to execute a pre-determination process in the same manner as the process of step S205 (step S211), and stores a hold command including pre-determination information in the RAM 103. Set (step S212).

  When it is determined “NO” in step S207, when it is determined “NO” in step S208, or when the process of step S212 is performed, the CPU 101 ends the start port switch process, and performs the gate switch process. Proceed with the process.

[Gate switch processing by game control unit 100]
FIG. 9 is a detailed flowchart of the gate switch process in step S3 of FIG. As shown in FIG. 9, the CPU 101 determines whether the detection signal from the gate switch 114 or 115 (ON signal indicating that the gate switch 114 or 115 is “ON”) is input. It is determined whether or not the switch 114 or 115 is “ON” (step S301).

  When the CPU 101 determines that the gate switch 114 or 115 is “ON” (step S301: YES), the normal symbol determination hold number G stored in the RAM 103 is the maximum normal symbol determination hold number Gmax (for example, 4) It is determined whether it is less than (step S302).

  When the CPU 101 determines that the hold number G is less than the maximum hold number Gmax (step S302: YES), the CPU 101 updates the hold number G to a value obtained by adding “1” (step S303). A normal symbol random number used for symbol determination is acquired and stored in the RAM 103 (step S304). Note that a pre-determination process may be performed on the normal symbol random number stored in step S304 in the same manner as in step S205, and the result of the pre-determination process may be transmitted to the effect control unit 130 as a normal symbol hold command. .

[Special symbol processing by game control unit 100]
Next, the details of the special symbol process executed by the game control unit 100 will be described with reference to FIGS. Here, FIG. 10 is a detailed flowchart showing the special symbol process of step S4 in FIG. FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing details of the jackpot determination process in step S407 of FIG. FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing details of the variation pattern setting process in step S408 of FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 10, the CPU 101 of the game control unit 100 determines whether or not a special game (during a big hit game) is in progress based on information stored in the RAM 103, for example (step S401). If it is determined that a special game is being played (step S401: YES), the CPU 101 ends the special symbol process.

  When determining that the special game is not being played (step S401: NO), the CPU 101 determines whether or not the special symbol (the first special symbol or the second special symbol) is being variably displayed (step S402). Here, when it is determined that the special symbol is not in a variable display (step S402: NO), it is determined whether or not the holding number U2 of the second special symbol determination stored in the RAM 103 is “1” or more. (Step S403) When it is determined that the number is “1” or more (Step S403: YES), “1” is subtracted from the holding number U2 to digest only one holding ball (Step S404).

  When the CPU 101 determines that the number of holdings U <b> 2 is not equal to or greater than “1” (the second special symbol determination is not held) (step S <b> 403: NO), the number of held first special symbol determinations stored in the RAM 103. It is determined whether or not U1 is “1” or more (step S405). When it is determined that U1 is “1” or more (step S405: YES), “1” is subtracted from the number of holdings U1 and 1 is held. Only digest (step S406). On the other hand, if the CPU 101 determines in step S405 that the number of holds U1 is not equal to or greater than “1” (step S405: NO), the CPU 101 sets a customer waiting command in the RAM 103 and ends the special symbol process shown in FIG.

  The CPU 101 executes jackpot determination processing following step S404 or step S406 (step S407). Hereinafter, the jackpot determination process will be described with reference to FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 11, the CPU 101 first determines whether or not it is a big hit (step S431). Specifically, when the CPU 101 determines whether or not it is a big hit following the process of step S404 in FIG. 10, the big hit random number (step S2 of step S2) related to the hold ball obtained by subtracting the hold number U2 in the process of step S404. It is determined whether or not the jackpot random number stored in the RAM 103 by the process matches the winning value of the jackpot random number stored in advance in the ROM 102. Thereby, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the result of the second special symbol determination is a big hit. In addition, when the gaming state is a high probability gaming state, the probability of being determined to be a big hit is higher than that of the low probability gaming state. On the other hand, when determining whether or not it is a big hit following the process of step S406 in FIG. 10, the CPU 101 determines a big hit random number related to the hold ball obtained by subtracting the hold number U1 in the process of step S406 (the RAM 103 in the process of step S2). Whether or not the winning value of the jackpot random number stored in advance in the ROM 102 matches the winning value of the jackpot random number stored in the ROM 102. Thus, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the result of the first special symbol determination is a big hit.

  Here, when the result of the special symbol determination is a jackpot (step S431: YES), the CPU 101 determines the symbol random number based on the symbol random number stored in the RAM 103 in the process of step S2 together with the above jackpot random number. Is performed (step S432). Specifically, the CPU 101 determines which of the random numbers assigned to each of the jackpot symbols stored in advance in the ROM 102 matches the symbol random number stored in the RAM 103 in step S2. To determine the jackpot symbol. Then, the CPU 101 sets the determined jackpot symbol as setting information in the RAM 103 (step S433).

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S431 that it is not a big hit (step S431: NO), the CPU 101 sets a lost symbol indicating that the result of the special symbol determination is a loss in the RAM 103 as setting information (step S434).

  After the process of step S433 or the process of step S434, the CPU 101 ends the jackpot determination process and returns the process to the special symbol process of FIG.

  Returning to FIG. 10, following the jackpot determination process in step S407, the CPU 101 executes a variation pattern setting process (step S408). Hereinafter, the variation pattern setting process will be described with reference to FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 12, the CPU 101 determines whether or not a low-probability gaming state is set based on whether or not a probability-changing gaming flag described later is OFF (step S461). If it is determined that the current state is the low-probability gaming state (step S461: YES), the CPU 101 determines whether or not the current state is the non-short-time gaming state based on whether or not a time-saving gaming flag described later is currently OFF (step S462). . When it is determined that the game is in a non-short game state (step S462: YES), the CPU 101 sets a normal table as a variation pattern table in the RAM 103 (step S463). When it is determined that the time-saving gaming state is set (step S462: NO), the CPU 101 sets a low-accuracy time-saving table in the RAM 103 as a variation pattern table (step S464).

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the game state is not the low probability game state, that is, the game state is the high probability game state (step S461: NO), the CPU 101 determines whether or not it is the time-short game state (step S465). When it is determined that the time-short gaming state is set (step S465: YES), the CPU 101 sets a highly accurate time-short table as a variation pattern table in the RAM 103 (step S466), and when it is determined that the time-short gaming state is not set (step S465: NO). The CPU 101 sets a latent probability table as a variation pattern table in the RAM 103 (step S467).

  Here, the variation pattern table is a table in which conditions for determining a variation pattern (variation time) of a special symbol are defined. Each variation pattern table includes a plurality of variation patterns. The variation pattern selected when the jackpot determination result is a jackpot, the variation pattern selected when there is no reach, and the loss pattern The variation pattern selected when there is a reach is included.

  Following the processing of step S463, step S464, step S466, or step S467, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the result of the jackpot determination in step S407 is a loss (step S468). If the result of the jackpot determination is not a loss, that is, if the jackpot is a jackpot (step S468: NO), the CPU 101 proceeds to the next step 470.

  When it is determined that the result of the jackpot determination in step S407 is a loss (step S468: YES), the CPU 101 performs a reach random number determination process (step S469). In the reach random number determination process, the CPU 101 determines whether or not there is a reach based on the acquired reach random number. Then, the CPU 101 executes the process of step S470 following the process of step S469.

  In step S470, the CPU 101 performs a variation pattern random number determination process. Specifically, the CPU 101 uses the set variation pattern table to select a variation pattern based on the variation pattern random number stored in the RAM 103 in the process of step S2. More specifically, the CPU 101 determines whether or not it is a big win, if it is a big win, if there is a loss, whether there is a reach, the value of U2 or U1 before being subtracted in step S403 or step S405, etc. Based on this, one variation pattern included in the variation pattern table is determined.

  In this way, the CPU 101 determines the variation pattern of the special symbol based on the variation pattern random number acquired in step S2 and the variation pattern table set in step S463, step S464, step S466, or step S467. To do. The determined variation pattern is set in the RAM 103 as setting information (step S471). After the process in step S471, the CPU 101 ends the variation pattern setting process shown in FIG. 12, and proceeds with the processes after step S409 in FIG.

  Returning to FIG. 10, following the process of step S <b> 408, the CPU 101 indicates the symbol setting information set by the process of step S <b> 407, the variation pattern setting information set by the process of step S <b> 408, and the gaming state of the pachinko gaming machine 1. A change start command including information and the like is generated and set in the RAM 103 (step S409). This variation start command is a command for instructing execution of an effect accompanying the variation display of the special symbol, and is transmitted to the effect control unit 130 by executing the output process of step S9 in FIG.

  Subsequent to the process in step S409, the CPU 101 starts the special symbol variation display based on the setting information included in the variation start command set in the step S409 (step S410), and measures the variation time. Start (step S411). The special symbol variation display is performed using the second special symbol display 42 when the processing of steps S407 to S409 is performed subsequent to the processing of step S404, and is performed following the processing of step S406. In the case of failure, the first special symbol display 41 is used.

  When the CPU 101 determines “YES” in the process of step S402 or when the process of step S411 is executed, the CPU 101 performs the change corresponding to the change pattern set in the process of step S408 from the start of the measurement of the change time in step S411. It is determined whether time has passed (step S412).

  When the CPU 101 determines that the variation time has elapsed (step S412: YES), the CPU 101 sets a variation stop command for notifying that the variation display of the special symbol is stopped in the RAM 103 (step S413). The started variation display of the special symbol is terminated (step S414), and the measured variation time is reset (step S415). As a result, in the first special symbol display 41 or the second special symbol display 42, the symbol (hit or symbol) corresponding to the determination result of the jackpot determination process in step S407 is stopped and displayed as a result of the special symbol determination. Is notified. Note that the change stop command set in the process of step S413 is transmitted to the effect control unit 130 by executing the output process of step S9 of FIG.

  After the process of step S415, the CPU 101 executes a stop process (step S416). Details of the stop process will be described later.

  If “YES” is determined in step S401, “NO” is determined in step S405, “NO” is determined in step S412, or if the process of step S416 is performed, the CPU 101 The special symbol process is terminated, and the normal symbol process of step S5 in FIG. 7 is executed.

[Processing during stop by game control unit 100]
Next, the stop process in step S416 in FIG. 10 will be described. FIG. 13 is a detailed flowchart showing the stop process in step S416 of FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 13, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the result of the special symbol determination is a jackpot based on the result of the jackpot determination process in step S407 (step S480). If the CPU 101 determines that the game is a jackpot (step S480: YES), the CPU 101 sets the jackpot game flag stored in the RAM 103 to “ON” (step S481).

  Following the process of step S481, the CPU 101 sets the time-short game flag and the probability change game flag stored in the RAM 103 to “OFF” (step S482). Following the processing in step S482, the CPU 101 starts opening (step S483), and sets an opening command in the RAM 103 (step S484). This opening command is a command for causing the effect control unit 130 to perform an opening effect indicating that the jackpot game is started and a jackpot effect during the jackpot game. The command is executed by the output process in step S9 of FIG. By being executed, it is transmitted to the effect control unit 130.

  On the other hand, if the CPU 101 determines that it is not a big hit (ie, lose) (step S480: NO), it determines whether or not the time-saving game flag is set to “ON” (step S485). Here, when it is determined that the short-time game flag is set to “ON” (step S485: YES), “1” is subtracted from the short-time game remaining number J stored in the RAM 103, and the J is updated ( Step S486). The short time remaining game count J indicates the number of remaining special symbol fluctuations (the number of executions of the special symbol determination) in which the short time gaming state is maintained, and is set in a game state setting process executed after the jackpot game is performed. . Details of the game state setting process will be described later.

  Following the processing of step S486, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the time-saving game remaining count J is “0” (step S487). Here, when it is determined that the short time remaining game count J is “0” (step S487: YES), the CPU 101 sets the short time game flag to “OFF” (step S488).

  When the process of step S488 is executed, when it is determined that the short-time game flag is not “ON” (step S485: NO), or when it is determined that the short-time game remaining number J is not “0” (step S487: NO) ), The CPU 101 determines whether or not the probability variation game flag is set to “ON” (step S489).

  When it is determined that the probability variation game flag is set to “ON” (step S489: YES), the CPU 101 subtracts “1” from the high probability game remaining number X stored in the RAM 103, and updates the X. (Step S490). Here, the high probability game remaining count X indicates the remaining number of times that the special symbol determination is performed in the high probability game state, and is set in a game state setting process (described later) executed after the jackpot game is performed. .

  Subsequent to step S490, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the high-probability game residual count X is “0” (step S491). Here, when it is determined that the high probability remaining game count X is “0” (step S491: YES), the probability variation game flag stored in the RAM 103 is set to “OFF” (step S492).

  When the process of step S492 is executed, when the process of step S484 is executed, when it is determined that the probability variation game flag is not “ON” (step S489: NO), or the high probability remaining game count X is “ When it is determined that it is not “0” (step S491: NO), the CPU 101 ends the suspension process of FIG.

[Normal symbol processing by game control unit 100]
Next, the details of the normal symbol processing executed by the game control unit 100 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 14 is a detailed flowchart showing the normal symbol process in step S5 of FIG.

  First, the CPU 101 of the game control unit 100 determines whether or not the auxiliary flag stored in the RAM 103 is set to “ON” (step S501). The auxiliary flag is a flag that is set to “ON” when the result of the normal symbol determination is a win, and is a flag that indicates whether or not a hit game in which the electric tulip 17 is activated. The electric tulip 17 operates in a predetermined pattern when the result of normal symbol determination is a win. The operation pattern of the electric tulip 17 differs depending on whether or not the gaming machine 1 is in the short-time gaming state (whether or not the short-time gaming flag is ON). The operation pattern of the electric tulip 17 differs depending on whether the hit type is per long opening or short opening. Here, when it is determined that the auxiliary flag is set to “ON” (step S501: YES), the CPU 101 ends the normal symbol process of FIG.

  If it is determined that the auxiliary flag is not set to “ON” (step S501: NO), the CPU 101 determines whether or not the normal symbol display on the normal symbol display 45 is being displayed (step S502). If it is determined that the normal symbol variation display is not being performed (step S502: NO), it is determined whether or not the normal symbol determination pending number G stored in the RAM 103 is equal to or greater than "1" (step S503). Here, when it is determined that the number of holds G is not “1” or more (step S503: NO), the CPU 101 ends the normal symbol processing of FIG.

  When the CPU 101 determines that the reserved number G is “1” or more (step S503: YES), the CPU 101 updates the reserved number G to a value obtained by subtracting “1” (step S504), and executes normal symbol random number determination processing. (Step S505). Specifically, the normal symbol random number acquired in the process of step S3 in response to the game ball passing through the first gate 15 or the second gate 16 is the winning value of the normal symbol random number stored in the ROM 102. It is determined whether or not the result of the normal symbol determination is a win based on whether or not it matches (depends on whether or not the game is in the short-time gaming state) (step S506). In the short-time gaming state, the probability that the result of the normal symbol determination is successful is higher than that in the non-short-time gaming state.

  If the CPU 101 determines that the result of the normal symbol determination is not successful (step S506: NO), the CPU 101 sets the lost symbol in the RAM 103 (step S507).

  On the other hand, when the CPU 101 determines that the result of the normal symbol determination is a win (step S506: YES), the CPU 101 determines whether or not the type of the normal symbol determination is a long open hit (step S508). In the ROM 102, as a winning value of the normal symbol random number, a winning value per long opening that will open the second starting port 12 for a long time after winning and a short opening per second that will open the second starting port 12 for a short time are stored. The winning value is set. CPU101 determines whether it is per long release based on the acquired normal symbol random number. In addition to the normal symbol random number (first normal symbol random number) for determining the success of the normal symbol determination, a random number (second ordinary symbol random number) for determining the type of the normal symbol hit may be provided. Good. In this case, it is determined whether or not the winning is based on the first normal symbol random number, and in the case of winning, the winning type (per long opening or per short opening) is determined based on the second ordinary symbol random number. Also good.

  When it determines with it being per long release (step S508: YES), CPU101 sets the symbol per long release to RAM103 (step S509). On the other hand, if it is determined that it is not per long release (step S508: NO), the CPU 101 sets a symbol per short release in the RAM 103 (step S510).

  Following the processing of step S507, the processing of step S509, or the processing of step S510, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the short-time gaming state is based on whether or not the short-time gaming flag stored in the RAM 103 is ON ( Step S511).

  If the CPU 101 determines that it is not in the short-time gaming state (step S511: NO), it sets the normal symbol variation time, which is the time for displaying the normal symbol on the normal symbol display 45, to 25 seconds, for example (step S512). Conversely, if it is determined that the game is in the short-time gaming state (step S511: YES), the normal symbol variation time is set to a relatively short value, for example, 2 seconds (step S513). The normal symbol variation time set by the processing of step S512 or step S513 is temporarily stored in the RAM 103.

  Subsequent to the processing of step S512 or step S513, the CPU 101 starts normal symbol variation display on the ordinary symbol display 45 (step S514), and starts measuring the elapsed time from the variation display start (step S515). .

  On the other hand, if the CPU 101 determines that the normal symbol change display is being performed on the normal symbol display unit 45 (step S502: YES), the CPU 101 determines whether or not to end the normal symbol change display (step S516). Specifically, based on whether or not the elapsed time when measurement is started by the process of step S513 has reached the normal symbol change time set by the process of step S512 or step S513, the change display of the normal symbol is displayed. It is determined whether or not the end timing has come. Here, when it is determined that the end timing has not come (step S516: NO), the CPU 101 ends the normal symbol process of FIG.

  When the CPU 101 determines that it is the end timing of the normal symbol fluctuation display (step S516: YES), the CPU 101 ends the normal symbol fluctuation display by the normal symbol display 45 (step S517). Specifically, the CPU 101 causes the normal symbol display 45 to stop-display the symbol set in the process of step S507, step S509, or step S510. Thereby, the result of the normal symbol determination is notified to the player.

  Following the process of step S517, the CPU 101 resets the elapsed time when the measurement was started by the process of step S515 (step S518). Then, similarly to step S506, it is determined whether or not the result of the normal symbol determination is a win (step S519). If it is determined that the win is a win (step S519: YES), the auxiliary flag is set to “ON”. It sets (step S520). The auxiliary flag is set to “ON” and the electric tulip 17 described later is performed, whereby the electric tulip 17 is activated.

  When the process of step S520 is performed, when it is determined NO in the process of step S516, or when it is determined NO in the process of step S519, the CPU 101 ends the normal symbol process of FIG.

[Big prize opening process by game control unit 100]
Next, with reference to FIG. 15, the details of the special winning a prize opening process executed by the game control unit 100 will be described. FIG. 15 is a detailed flowchart showing the special winning opening process in step S6 of FIG. As shown in FIG. 15, the CPU 101 of the game control unit 100 determines whether or not the jackpot game flag is ON (step S601). Here, the jackpot game flag is a flag that is set to ON in step S481. When the jackpot game flag is ON (step S601: YES), the CPU 101 determines whether or not the opening is being performed (step S602).

  If it is during opening (step S602: YES), the CPU 101 determines whether or not the opening time has elapsed (step S603). If the opening time has elapsed (step S603: YES), the CPU 101 sets “0” to R (indicating the number of rounds in the jackpot game) according to the result of the jackpot determination process, An opening pattern (opening time, opening number, etc.) of the special winning opening 13 is set (step S604).

  Here, the value of Rmax differs depending on the jackpot symbol. For example, in the case of the jackpot symbol Y1, “16” is set to Rmax.

  Following step S604, the CPU 101 adds “1” to R and stores it in the RAM 103 (step S605). Next, the CPU 101 starts opening control of the special winning opening 13 based on the opening pattern set in step S604 (step S606), and sets a round start command indicating the start of the round in the RAM 103 (step S607). After the process of step S607, the CPU 101 next executes a process of step S611.

  On the other hand, if the opening is not in progress (step S602: NO), the CPU 101 determines whether the ending is in progress (step S608). If it is during ending (step S608: YES), the CPU 101 next executes the process of step S617. If it is not ending (step S608: NO), the CPU 101 determines whether or not it is during the interval between round games (step S609). If it is during the interval (step S609: YES), the CPU 101 determines whether or not the interval time has elapsed (step S610), and if it has elapsed (step S610: YES), then the processing of step S605 is performed. Run. When the interval time has not elapsed (step S610: NO), the CPU 101 ends the big prize opening process.

  On the other hand, when it is not during the interval (step S609: NO), that is, when the round game is being performed, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the round end condition is satisfied (step S611). If the round end condition is not satisfied (step S611: NO), the CPU 101 ends the big prize opening process.

  Here, the round end condition of the long open round game is, for example, that 29.5 seconds have elapsed since the start of the opening control of the big winning opening of this round in step S606, or that of this round in step S606. This is that the number of winning a game ball to the big winning opening after starting the opening control of the big winning opening has become a predetermined value. When any one of the two conditions is satisfied, the CPU 101 determines that the round end condition is satisfied. In addition, the round end condition of the short open round game is that, for example, 0.01 seconds have elapsed since the start of the opening control of the big winning opening of this round.

  If the round end condition is satisfied (step S611: YES), the CPU 101 ends the special winning opening release control in this round (step S612). Subsequently, the CPU 101 determines whether or not R is equal to Rmax (step S613). That is, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the current round is equal to the maximum number of rounds set in step S604.

  If it is determined that R is not equal to Rmax (step S613: NO), the CPU 101 starts measuring the interval time (step S614), and then ends the big prize opening process.

  When it is determined that R is equal to Rmax (step S613: YES), the CPU 101 starts ending (step S615) and sets an ending command in the RAM 103 (step S616).

  If the CPU 101 performs the process of step S616 or determines YES in the process of step S608, the CPU 101 determines whether or not a preset ending time has elapsed since the start of ending in step S615 (step S615). S617). If the ending time has elapsed (step S617: YES), the CPU 101 executes a game state setting process (step S618). Details of the game state setting process will be described later. After the game state setting process in step S618, the CPU 101 sets the jackpot game flag to OFF (step S619).

  If NO is determined in the process of step S601, NO is determined in the process of step S611, NO is determined in the process of step S617, NO is determined in the process of step S610, NO is determined in the process of step S603. When the process of step S614 is executed, or when the process of step S619 is executed, the CPU 101 ends the special winning a prize mouth process shown in FIG.

[Game state setting process by game control unit 100]
Next, the gaming state setting process in step S618 of FIG. 15 will be described. FIG. 16 is a detailed flowchart showing the game state setting process in step S618 of FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 16, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the type of jackpot of this time is a highly probable jackpot with a transition to the high probability gaming state (step S630). Specifically, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the current jackpot is a jackpot by any of the jackpot symbols X1 to X9 and Y1 to Y8. If it is a highly probable hit (step S630: YES), the CPU 101 sets the probability variable game flag to ON (step S631), and sets Xmax to the high probability game remaining count X (step S632). Here, Xmax is a predetermined value, and a very large value, for example, 10,000 is set as Xmax. Since a very large value Xmax is set for X, the game is effectively controlled in the high-probability gaming state until the next jackpot.

  When the process of step S632 is performed, or when it is determined NO in step S630, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the current jackpot is a jackpot due to any of the jackpot symbols X7, X9, and X10 (step S633). The jackpot symbols X7, X9, and X10 are jackpots in which the short-time gaming state is not set as shown in FIG. When it determines with YES by step S633, CPU101 complete | finishes the gaming state setting process shown in FIG.

  On the other hand, when it is determined NO in step S633, the CPU 101 sets the time-saving game flag to ON (step S634). Subsequently, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the current jackpot is a jackpot based on the jackpot symbol Y8 or Y9 (step S635). When it determines with YES by step S635, CPU101 sets "10" to the time-saving game remaining frequency | count J (step S636).

  On the other hand, if it is determined NO in step S635, the CPU 101 sets Jmax to the time-saving game remaining number J (step S637). Jmax is a predetermined value, and a very large value, for example, 10,000 is set as Jmax. Since a very large value Jmax is set for J, the game is effectively controlled in the short-time gaming state until the next big hit.

  When the process of step S636 is performed, when the process of step S637 is performed, or when YES is determined in step S633, the CPU 101 ends the gaming state setting process shown in FIG.

[Electric tulip processing by game control unit 100]
Next, details of the electric tulip process in step S7 of FIG. 7 will be described. FIG. 17 is a detailed flowchart of the electric tulip process of FIG.

  First, the CPU 101 of the game control unit 100 determines whether or not the auxiliary flag is set to “ON” (step S701). If it is determined that the auxiliary flag is not set to “ON” (step S701: NO), the CPU 101 ends the electric tulip process.

  When determining that the auxiliary flag is set to “ON” (step S701: YES), the CPU 101 determines whether the electric tulip 17 is operating (step S702). Here, when it is determined that the electric tulip 17 is not in operation (step S702: NO), the CPU 101 determines whether or not the long tulip is achieved based on the symbol set in step S509 or step S510 (step S702). S703). When it is determined that the long opening has been reached (step S703: YES), the CPU 101 performs, as the operation pattern of the electric tulip 17, for example, an operation of opening the second start port 12 for 0.1 seconds and then opening it for 5.5 seconds once. The operation pattern is set in the RAM 103 (step S707).

  On the other hand, when it is determined that it is not per long release (step S703: NO), the CPU 101 determines whether or not the short-time gaming state is set by determining whether or not the short-time gaming flag is ON (step S704).

  If the CPU 101 determines that it is not in the short-time gaming state (step S704: NO), for example, the CPU 101 sets an operation pattern in which the operation of opening the second start port 12 for 0.1 second is performed in the RAM 103 (step S705).

  On the other hand, if the CPU 101 determines that it is in the short-time gaming state (step S704: YES), as the operation pattern of the electric tulip 17, for example, an operation pattern in which the operation of opening the second start port 12 for 1.8 seconds is performed three times. It is set in the RAM 103 (step S706).

  After setting the operation pattern of the electric tulip 17 by the process of step S705, step S706, or step S707, the CPU 101 causes the electric tulip opening / closing unit 113 to start the operation of the electric tulip 17 in the set operation pattern (step S708). .

  When the CPU 101 executes the process of step S708 or determines that the electric tulip 17 is operating (step S702: YES), whether the operation of the electric tulip 17 started in the process of step S708 is completed. Is determined (step S709). If it is determined that the operation of the electric tulip 17 has been completed (step S709: YES), the CPU 101 sets the auxiliary flag stored in the RAM 103 to “OFF” (step S710).

  When it determines with NO by the process of step S701, when it determines with NO by the process of step S709, or when the process of step S710 is performed, CPU101 complete | finishes an electric tulip process.

[Outline of presentation of gaming machine of this embodiment]
Next, characteristic effects in the pachinko gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment will be described. In the pachinko gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, when the predetermined condition is satisfied, the effect mode shifts from the normal mode to the specific mode. Specifically, when a predetermined time elapses from a certain timing, the gaming machine 1 shifts from the normal mode to the specific mode regardless of the change in the special symbol. For example, in “normal mode”, a background image indicating the normal mode is displayed, and in “specific mode”, a background image indicating the specific mode is displayed.

  FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating a normal mode and a specific mode of the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 18, in the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment, for example, the effect mode is set to the normal mode for 30 minutes after the power is turned on, and when the power is turned on for 30 minutes, the normal mode is changed to the specific mode. . The specific mode continues for T1 time (for example, 4 minutes 30 seconds), and when the T1 time elapses, the specific mode returns to the normal mode. In addition, when 60 minutes have passed since the transition to the first specific mode, the normal mode is shifted to the specific mode (second time) again. In the second specific mode, the effect mode continues for T2 time (for example, 5 minutes and 10 seconds), and when T2 time elapses, the specific mode returns to the normal mode. Furthermore, when 60 minutes have elapsed from the time of transition to the second specific mode, the mode shifts from the normal mode to the specific mode (third time). The third specific mode continues for T3 time (for example, 4 minutes and 12 seconds), and returns to the normal mode when T3 time elapses. Thereafter, the mode shifts to the specific mode every 60 minutes, and the specific mode is produced for a predetermined time.

  FIG. 19 is a diagram illustrating a specific mode time and a specific BGM output during the specific mode. As shown in FIG. 19, any one of the T1 to T4 times is set as the time in the specific mode, and the specific BGM is output during the specific mode. Specifically, the time T1 coincides with the reproduction time of the music A, which is one of the specific BGMs, the time T2 coincides with the reproduction time of the music B, and the time T3 coincides with the reproduction time of the music C. The T4 time coincides with the playback time of the music D. When the normal mode is shifted to the specific mode, any music is selected from the music list shown in FIG. 19 according to a predetermined rule, and the selected music is output as a specific BGM during the specific mode. Note that music A to music C can be selected from the initial state, and are configured to be selected in the order of music A to music C, for example. On the other hand, the music D can be selected when the date counted by the RTC 134 is after a predetermined date, and the music D is selected from the music A to the music D after the predetermined date. Note that music that is played only for a specific date, period, or time period may be prepared.

  FIG. 20 is a diagram for explaining effects during the specific mode and the normal mode. In FIG. 20, when the same special symbol variation pattern is selected in the game control unit 100, the difference in performance between the specific mode and the normal mode is shown. As shown in FIG. 20 (A), during the specific mode, a variation effect is started according to the variation of the special symbol displayed on the first special symbol display 41 or the second special symbol display 42, and the variation A specific performance may be performed during the performance. The specific effect is an effect that informs that the special symbol is a big hit, and is an effect that is performed before the big win is notified by the decorative symbol 51 (see FIG. 23) displayed on the liquid crystal display 5. . In other words, the specific effect is an effect indicating confirmation of a big hit. After the specific effect is performed in the specific mode, the jackpot is notified by the decorative symbol 51 and the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 41 or the second special symbol display 42. After that, a jackpot game is played.

  When the result of the special symbol determination is a loss, the specific effect is not performed during the change of the special symbol, and the lost symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 41 or the second special symbol display 42. When the lost symbol is displayed in a stopped state, if there is a special symbol determination pending, after the predetermined stop display period (for example, 0.5 seconds) has elapsed, the reserved special symbol determination is performed, The special symbol starts to change.

  On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 20B, during the normal mode, even if the result of the special symbol determination is a big hit, the specific effect is not performed during the changing effect. During the normal mode, the expected degree of jackpot is suggested by a predetermined notice effect, reach effect, etc. in the variable effect, and the decorative symbol 51 is finally notified of the jackpot. Then, after the jackpot is notified using the decorative symbol 51, the jackpot game is played. In the normal mode, the specific effect is not executed, but a premier effect or the like indicating a big hit can be executed. The premier effect is an effect that has a very low frequency of appearance (for example, tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands). The premier effect is an effect for notifying that a jackpot game will be performed later, and when the effect is performed, it is always a jackpot.

  FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating the specific effect and the suggestive effect before the specific effect. As shown in FIG. 21A, when a specific effect is performed, an suggestion effect (a sign effect) suggesting the specific effect is performed before the specific effect is started. Then, after the suggestion effect, the specific effect is performed. The specific effects include a predetermined introduction effect (display of an introduction image 58 described later) and a main effect. After the introduction effect is performed, the main effect is performed.

  On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 21B, even when the specific effect is not performed, the suggestion effect may be performed. In this case, after the suggestion effect performed in parallel with the normal effect is performed, the specific effect is not performed, and the normal effect (an other effect different from the specific effect) is continuously executed. By performing such suggestion effects, it is possible to make the player have an expectation that the specific effects will be performed. In other words, by performing the suggestion effect, it is possible to cause the player to expect that the specific effect indicating the determination of the jackpot will be performed thereafter.

  FIG. 22 is a diagram showing the presence / absence of a suggestion effect and a specific effect in each effect mode. As shown in FIG. 22, during the specific mode, if it is determined that the special symbol determination is a big win, the specific effect is executed with a probability of 80%, for example, based on a predetermined lottery, and the specific effect is executed with a probability of 20%. Not. When the specific effect is performed, the suggestive effect is performed before the start of the specific effect. Further, when the specific effect is not performed, a lottery is performed as to whether or not the suggestion effect is performed. When the specific effect is not performed, for example, the suggestion effect is performed with a probability of 50%, and the suggestion effect is not performed with a probability of 50%.

  As described above, in the specific mode, even when the special symbol determination is determined to be a big hit, the specific effect for notifying the big hit may not be performed. Thereby, even when the specific effect is not performed after the suggestion effect or when the suggestion effect is not performed, it is possible to prevent the player from losing expectation.

  Further, when it is determined that the special symbol is determined to be lost in the specific mode, a lottery is performed as to whether or not the suggestion effect is performed, and the suggestion effect is performed according to the lottery result. When it is determined that the special symbol is determined to be lost, the specific effect is not performed even if the suggestion effect is performed or not performed.

  On the other hand, in the normal mode, no suggestion effect or specific effect is performed regardless of whether the result of the special symbol determination is a big hit or a loss.

  FIG. 23 is a diagram illustrating an example of an image displayed on the liquid crystal display 5 during the normal mode and the specific mode.

  As shown in FIG. 23A, during the normal mode, the decorative symbol 51, the reserved image 52, and the background image 60 are displayed on the screen of the liquid crystal display 5. The decorative symbol 51 is an effect symbol that varies according to the variation of the special symbol and stops when the special symbol stops. The decorative symbol 51 is displayed in three regions (left region 51a, middle region 51b, and right region 51c). It is composed of decorative designs. Here, the decorative symbol displayed in the left region 51a is referred to as a left decorative symbol 51a, the decorative symbol displayed in the middle region 51b is referred to as a middle decorative symbol 51b, and the decorative symbol displayed in the right region 51c is referred to as a right decorative symbol 51c. There are a plurality of types of decorative symbols (for example, symbols on which numbers “1” to “9” are displayed). The hold image 52 is an image indicating the hold of the special symbol determination, and in FIG. 23A, four hold images 521 to 524 are displayed. The background image 60 is an image displayed as a background during the normal mode. In addition to the image shown in FIG. 23A during the normal mode, a notice image may be displayed that suggests whether the result of the special symbol determination is a big hit. Further, the background image 60 used as the background during the normal mode may have a plurality of types.

  On the other hand, during the specific mode, an image as shown in FIG. 23B is displayed on the screen of the liquid crystal display 5. Specifically, the liquid crystal display 5 displays a hold image 52, a specific mode display image 55, a small symbol 56, and a background image 61, and a display area 54 is provided. In the display area 54, an image that is the same as the image in the normal mode and is reduced compared to the normal mode is displayed. Specifically, the decorative pattern 51 and the background image 60 are displayed in the display area 54 as in the normal mode, and although not shown, the notice image may also be displayed.

  The specific mode display image 55 is an image indicating that the specific mode is being performed, and is displayed only during the specific mode. The background image 61 is an image displayed as a background during the specific mode, and is an image different from the background image 60 in the normal mode. In the specific mode display image 55 and / or the background image 61, for example, a display such as “a big chance when a specific effect occurs” is displayed. Inform.

  The small symbol 56 is an effect symbol that varies according to the variation of the special symbol and stops when the special symbol stops. With the small symbols 56, the player can easily recognize that the special symbols are fluctuating or stopped. The small symbol 56 includes a left small symbol 56a displayed in the left region, a medium / small symbol 56b displayed in the middle region, and a right small symbol 56c displayed in the right region. When the decorative symbol 51 displayed in the display area 54 is variably displayed, the small symbol 56 is also variably displayed. When the decorative symbol 51 is stopped and displayed, the small symbol 56 is also stopped and displayed. The small symbols 56 may vary in synchronization with the decorative symbols 51 displayed in the display area 54, or may vary without being synchronized. If the decorative symbol 51 and the small symbol 56 do not change synchronously, for example, even if the left decorative symbol 51a of the decorative symbol 51 stops, the left small symbol 56a remains unchanged without stopping. In addition, when the small symbol 56 and the decorative symbol 51 do not change synchronously, for example, even when the decorative symbol 51 reaches a reach state (a state where the left and right decorative symbols are stopped with the same symbol), the small symbol 56 56 does not reach the reach state, and three symbols out of the small symbols 56 remain fluctuated. On the other hand, when the small symbol 56 fluctuates in synchronization with the decorative symbol 51, the small symbol 56 allows the player to change the special symbol in addition to the fact that the special symbol fluctuates or is stopped. It is possible to easily recognize that the section is stopped (for example, reach state). Below, the case where the small design 56 fluctuates synchronizing with the decoration design 51 is demonstrated.

  FIG. 24 is a diagram illustrating an example of the flow of effects when shifting from the normal mode to the specific mode. As shown in FIG. 24, an image 65 before transition indicating the transition to the specific mode is displayed during the normal mode for a predetermined time before the transition from the normal mode to the specific mode. The pre-transfer image 65 is an image that indicates the time until the shift to the specific mode. For example, the pre-transition image 65 is displayed 30 seconds before the transition to the specific mode (FIG. 24A), and the time indicated by the pre-transition image 65 decreases with the passage of time (FIG. 24B). ). Then, when the mode is shifted to the specific mode, the pre-transfer image 65 is deleted and an image in the specific mode is displayed (FIG. 24C). In FIG. 24, for the sake of explanation, the pre-transition image 65 is displayed in front of the decorative pattern 51a, but actually, the decorative pattern 51a is displayed in front of the pre-transition image 65 (the pre-transition image). The decorative pattern 51 is preferentially displayed over 65).

  Although illustration is omitted, when returning from the specific mode to the normal mode, an image indicating the end of the specific mode (for example, an image showing the remaining time until the end) is displayed from a predetermined time before the specific mode ends. May be.

  Next, with reference to FIGS. 25 and 26, the flow of effects in the specific mode will be described. FIG. 25 and FIG. 26 are diagrams showing the flow of effects when the special symbol determination is determined to be a big hit during the specific mode.

  As shown in FIG. 25, when the change of the special symbol is started in the specific mode, the decoration symbol 51 in the display area 54 starts to change, and the small symbol 56 also starts to change (FIG. 25A). For example, when a predetermined time elapses from the start of the change of the special symbol, the display area 54 is reduced and the suggestion image 57a is displayed in the surrounding display area expanded by reducing the display area 54 (FIG. 25). (B)). For example, an image in which “cha” is written as the suggestion image 57a uses an area generated by reducing the display area 54 (an area excluding the display area 54 after the reduction from the display area 54 before the reduction). Displayed. Further, at the timing of the reduction of the display area 54 and the display of the suggestion image 57a, the left decorative design 51a displayed in the display area 54 stops and the left small design 56a stops. Note that the display area 54 rotates, for example, clockwise when the state changes from FIG. 25 (A) to FIG. 25 (B). Specifically, an effect of whether or not the display area 54 rotates clockwise is performed. When the display area 54 rotates, the display area 54 is reduced and the suggestion image 57a is displayed. If the display area 54 does not rotate after the effect of whether or not the display area 54 rotates clockwise, the display area 54 is not reduced and the suggestion image 57a is not displayed.

  Following FIG. 25B, the display area 54 is further reduced and a suggestion image 57b is further displayed (FIG. 25C). For example, an image in which “n” is written as the suggestion image 57 b is displayed in an area generated by reducing the display area 54. Further, at the timing of the reduction of the display area 54 and the display of the suggestion image 57b, the right decorative design 51c displayed in the display area 54 stops and the right small design 56c stops. Note that the display area 54 rotates, for example, clockwise when the state changes from FIG. 25 (B) to FIG. 25 (C).

  When time elapses from the state shown in FIG. 25C, the display area 54 is further reduced and a suggestion image 57c is further displayed (FIG. 25D). For example, an image written as “su” as the suggestion image 57c is displayed in an area generated by reducing the display area 54. By the suggestion image 57a to the suggestion image 57c, the character “chance” is displayed on the liquid crystal display 5 (the empty space generated by the reduction of the display area 54). In addition, when it changes from FIG.25 (C) to the state of FIG.25 (D), the display area 54 rotates clockwise, for example.

  Then, after the state shown in FIG. 25D, the introduction image 58 is displayed on the liquid crystal display 5 in addition to the suggestion images 57a to 57c (FIG. 26E). For example, as the introductory image 58, an image written “Confirmed” is displayed. At this time, it is notified that the specific effect has started. Thereafter, a button image 59 that prompts the player to press the effect button 26 is displayed on the liquid crystal display 5 (FIG. 26F), and when the effect button 26 is pressed (or the button image 59 is displayed). When a predetermined time elapses from the display), the main effect of the specific effect is performed on the liquid crystal display 5 (FIG. 26G). For example, a moving image in which a predetermined character produces an effect is displayed as the main effect. As described above, the specific effect (display of the introductory image 58 and the main effect) is performed, so that it is informed that a big hit will be made thereafter. Note that the display in FIG. 26F may not be performed.

  Then, when the main effect in the specific effect is finished, the display area 54 returns to the size at the start of the change of the special symbol (FIG. 25A), and in the display area 54, the same type of decorative design is stopped on the left and right. A reach effect in which the decorative design of the middle region is displayed in a variable manner is performed (FIG. 26 (H)). During the reach effect, a background image 62 dedicated to reach effect is displayed as the background in the display area 54 and a predetermined character is displayed. The reach effect performed here is a reach effect also performed in the normal mode. Then, as a result of the reach effect, the three similar decorative symbols 51 are stopped and the jackpot is notified (FIG. 26 (I)).

  Thus, when it is determined that the big symbol is determined in the special symbol determination during the specific mode, the suggestion effect in which the suggestion image 57 is displayed stepwise is performed, and the specific effect is performed after the suggestion effect. Then, after the specific performance is performed, the jackpot notification using the decorative symbol 51 is surely performed and the jackpot is made. If the variation time of the special symbol is a time in which the suggestion effect and the specific effect can be executed, the suggestion effect and the specific effect can be executed at any timing during the change of the special symbol.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 27, the flow of effects when the result of the special symbol determination is a loss will be described. FIG. 27 is a diagram showing the flow of effects when the special symbol determination is determined to be lost during the specific mode, and is a diagram illustrating effects following FIG. 25 (C) or (D).

  As shown in FIG. 27, when it is determined that the special symbol is determined to be lost, at the stage where the suggested images 57 are sequentially displayed, the suggestion effect by the suggested images 57 ends, and thereafter, the lost is notified. For example, after the suggestion effect at the stage shown in FIG. 27C, three similar decorative symbols 51 (similar to the small symbol 56) are not aligned as shown in FIG. After the suggestion effect at the stage shown in (D), the loss is notified as shown in FIG. At this time, before the change of the special symbol is finished, the display area 54 is returned to the same size as the display area 54 in FIG. Thereafter, when a predetermined stop display period (for example, 0.5 seconds) elapses, a special symbol determination corresponding to the reserved image 521 is performed, and the next special symbol variation is started (FIG. 27 (L)). . Note that the display area 54 may remain reduced until the next special symbol change starts.

  Even if the specific effect is not performed after the suggestion effect, the jackpot may be notified thereafter. FIG. 28 is a diagram showing the flow of effects when the specific effect is not performed when it is determined that the special symbol is determined to be a big win during the specific mode, and shows an example of the effect that follows FIG. 25 (D). It is.

  As shown in FIG. 28, for example, in the state where the suggestion images 57a to 57c are displayed, the next introduction image 58 is not displayed (the specific effect is not executed), and the reach effect is performed in the display area 54. (FIG. 28 (M)). In this case, the display area 54 remains the same size as the state where the suggestion image 57c is displayed (FIG. 28D), and the reach effect is performed in the display area 54. As a result of the reach effect, three similar decorative symbols 51 (the same applies to the small symbols 56) are gathered and the jackpot is notified (FIG. 28 (N)).

  As described above, during the specific mode, the effect displayed in the entire area of the screen in the normal mode (the image excluding the reserved image 52, the effect of changing the decorative design 51, the effect using the notice image, the background image 60 , An image such as a reach effect) is performed in the display area 54. The display area 54 is reduced stepwise, and a suggestion image 57 that suggests a specific effect is displayed stepwise in an area generated by the reduction of the display area 54. Then, after the suggestion effect using the suggestion image 57, the introduction image 58 is displayed and the specific effect is started (FIG. 26E). The specific effect is an effect for notifying that the jackpot will be subsequently won (three similar types of decorative symbols are stopped and the jackpot notification effect is performed), and is an effect indicating the determination of the jackpot.

  As described above, in the specific mode, the player can be notified of the jackpot decision by performing the specific effect. Further, by performing the suggestion effect in which the suggestion image 57 is displayed step by step, it is possible to enhance the player's expectation that the specific effect will be performed. In the present embodiment, the size of the display area 54 is gradually reduced and the suggestion image 57 is displayed step by step until the specific effect is executed. For this reason, the smaller the size of the display area 54, the higher the player's expectation that the introduction image 58 will be displayed after the final suggestion image 57 is displayed, and the specific effect will be performed. The player's expectation for is increased.

  FIG. 29 is a diagram for explaining display priorities of images in the normal mode and the specific mode for displaying the above-described effects on the liquid crystal display 5.

  In FIG. 29, the display priority of each partial image is shown. The image displayed on the liquid crystal display 5 is synthesized by superimposing the partial images arranged in a plurality of layers. As shown in FIG. 29A, during the normal mode, the background image 60 in the normal mode is arranged in the lowermost layer LA1, the preview image is arranged in the second layer LA2, and the third layer LA3. A decorative pattern 51 is arranged, and a reserved image 52 is arranged on the layer LA4 which is the uppermost layer. Thus, when the images arranged in each layer are superimposed and displayed on the liquid crystal display 5, the image arranged in the uppermost layer LA4 is displayed most preferentially and arranged in the lowermost layer LA1. The displayed image is displayed with the lowest priority. That is, the hold image 52 is displayed in the foreground, the decorative pattern 51 is displayed next, the preview image is displayed next, and the background image 60 is displayed in the back.

  On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 29B, during the specific mode, the background image 61 of the specific mode is arranged in the lowermost layer LB1, and the image (decorative pattern 51 or the like in the display area 54 is displayed in the second layer LB2. A background image 60, other preview images, etc.), a specific mode display image 55 is arranged in the third layer LB3, and a suggestion effect image (indication image 57) is arranged in the fourth layer LB4. A small symbol 56 is arranged in the layer LB5, and a reserved image 52 is arranged in the sixth layer LB6. When the images arranged in the respective layers are superimposed and displayed on the liquid crystal display 5 in this way, the reserved image 52 is displayed in the foreground, followed by the small symbol 56, and then the suggestion of the suggestive effect. The image 57 and the like are displayed, the specific mode display image 55 is displayed next, the image in the display area 54 is displayed next, and the background image 61 is displayed at the farthest.

  As described above, the decorative pattern 51, the preview image, the background image 60 similar to the normal mode, and the like are displayed in the display area 54. As shown in FIG. 29, in order to generate an image in the display area 54, the images are arranged in the layers LA1 to LA3 as in the normal mode, and the images of these layers LA1 to LA3 and the outer edge of the display area 54 are displayed. An image obtained by superimposing a frame image (not shown) of the display area 54 constituting the image is drawn in a virtual frame buffer (a certain area on the VRAM). The image drawn in the virtual frame buffer is arranged in the layer LB2, and the images in the layers LB1 to LB6 are superimposed and drawn in the frame buffer. Then, the image drawn in the frame buffer is output to the liquid crystal display 5 and displayed. By performing such processing, the effect in the specific mode shown in FIGS. 25 to 26 is displayed on the liquid crystal display 5.

  That is, in the display area 54 set during the specific mode, various effect images (decorative pattern 51, a preview image, a reach effect image, and a background image 60) performed on the entire surface of the liquid crystal display 5 in the normal mode. Display is performed, and various effect images in the normal mode are reduced and displayed. Since various effect images are displayed in the reduced display area 54 during the specific mode, it is possible to perform effects similar to those in the normal mode in the display area 54 and to perform suggested effects outside the display area 54. Can do. Further, the display area 54 on which the decorative symbol 51 is displayed in the specific mode is reduced in stages, so that the visibility of the decorative symbol 51 is deteriorated. However, in the present embodiment, the small symbol 56 that varies similarly to the decorative symbol 51 is used. Is displayed on the liquid crystal display 5. The small symbols 56 are displayed in the same size outside the display area 54 regardless of the reduction of the display area 54. For this reason, the player can recognize the fluctuation and stop of the decorative symbol 51 by the small symbol 56.

  The variation effect including the specific effect in the specific mode as described above is performed based on the variation pattern selected in the game control unit 100.

  FIG. 30 is a diagram illustrating an example of a variation pattern selected when it is determined that the jackpot is determined in the special symbol determination. As shown in FIG. 30, when it is determined that the jackpot is determined in the special symbol determination, a plurality of variations such as a variation pattern P1 (variation time 120 seconds), a variation pattern P2 (variation time 90 seconds), a variation pattern P3 (variation time 60 seconds), etc. Any one of the variation patterns is selected, and a variation effect according to the selected variation pattern is performed. As long as the gaming state of the gaming machine 1 is the same in both the specific mode and the normal mode, one of the variation patterns shown in FIG. 30 is selected.

  FIG. 31 is a diagram illustrating an example of effect control when the same variation pattern is selected in the normal mode and the specific mode.

  As shown in FIG. 31 (A), for example, when the variation pattern P2 (variation time 90 seconds) is selected in the normal mode, during the variation effect, the effect using the decorative design 51, the notice effect 1, the notice effect 2, The notice effect 3 is performed, and then the reach effect A is performed. On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 31B, when the variation pattern P2 is selected in the specific mode, during the variation effect, the effect using the decorative symbols 51, the notice effects 1 to 3, and the reach as in the normal mode. Production A is performed. Specifically, these effects are performed in the display area 54. Further, in the specific mode, the suggestion effect and the specific effect are performed during the execution of the effect using the decorative design 51 and the notice effects 1 to 3. While the suggestion effect and the specific effect are being performed, the effects using the decorative design 51 and the notice effects 1 to 3 are executed on the screen of the liquid crystal display 5 or internally (the display area 54 is set). It is performed internally within the display area 54 during the suggestion effect and during the specific effect where the display area 54 is not set). In this way, the same effect is performed according to the variation pattern in both the normal mode and the specific mode. In the specific mode, the suggestion effect and the specific effect are displayed with priority (in front) over the image in the display area 54. Thus, the effects shown in FIGS. 25 to 26 are performed. Since the variation effect is determined by lottery using the variation pattern and the effect random number, the same effect is not always performed when the same variation pattern is selected. However, the content of the effect that can be performed in the display area 54 in the specific mode is based on the variation pattern regardless of the normal mode or the specific mode, and the content of the variable effect that can be performed in the normal mode. Is the same.

  Next, voice control and button effects in the normal mode and the specific mode will be described.

  FIG. 32 is a diagram showing an overview of voice control during the normal mode and the specific mode. As shown in FIG. 32, during the normal mode, the normal BGM is output during the changing effect according to the change of the special symbol (period in which the special symbol is changing). During the normal mode, normal BGM is output at a relatively large volume. In addition, various sound effects of the variation effect during the normal mode (characters, person voices and other sound effects output in response to the change effect) are also output at a relatively high volume. Note that the sound volume can be adjusted by the player, but the player's volume adjustment is an adjustment to a predetermined volume value. That is, when the player does not adjust the volume, a sound with a volume corresponding to a predetermined volume value is output, and when the player adjusts the volume, the predetermined volume value is changed. The sound having a volume corresponding to the changed value is output. The volume level described here is the level of the predetermined volume level.

  It should be noted that during the normal mode, the period during which no fluctuating effect is performed (the period during which the special symbol is not fluctuating) may or may not be output. For example, during the normal mode, a predetermined BGM may be output at a predetermined time interval during a period when the special symbol variation display is not performed. Here, the predetermined BGM is a BGM different from the specific BGM, may be the normal BGM, or may be a dedicated BGM that is output while the special symbol is not changing.

  On the other hand, when shifting from the normal mode to the specific mode, the specific BGM is output at a relatively large volume during the specific mode. The specific BGM is also output during a period in which no fluctuating effects are performed. Further, when a variation effect is performed during the specific mode, the specific BGM is output at a relatively large volume even during the variation effect. On the other hand, the effect sound of the variation effect is output at a relatively small volume during the specific mode.

  Here, when the above-described specific effect is performed in the variation effect in the specific mode, the specific BGM disappears during the period in which the specific effect is performed, and the sound of the specific effect is output at a relatively large volume. When the specific effect ends, the specific BGM is output again at a relatively large volume.

  As described above, in the specific mode, the specific BGM is output regardless of whether or not the fluctuating effect is performed, and the volume is set to be large. In addition, during the period in which the specific effect in the specific mode is performed, the specific BGM is turned off and the sound of the specific effect is output. By performing such audio control, it is possible to enhance the effect of the specific effect in the specific mode and to enhance the effect of the specific effect informing the jackpot confirmation.

  FIG. 33 is a diagram illustrating button effects during the normal mode and the specific mode. As shown in FIG. 33, the effect button 26 is stored in the initial position during the normal mode. In the normal mode, the effect button 26 may protrude upward during a period in which a fluctuating effect with a high degree of expectation for the jackpot is being performed. Specifically, based on the variation pattern of the special symbol determined by the game control unit 100, if the effect button 26 protrudes at a predetermined timing during the change effect, and the player presses the effect button 26, it is determined whether or not the game is a big hit May be notified. However, in the normal mode, the effect button 26 is projected only when a predetermined variation pattern is selected based on the result of the special symbol determination, so the effect button 26 is operated less frequently. The appearance frequency of the effect that causes the effect button 26 to protrude will be described later with reference to FIG.

  On the other hand, during the specific mode, the effect button 26 operates in a predetermined pattern even when the change effect is not performed. Specifically, the effect button 26 protrudes upward so as to match the rhythm of the specific BGM (music shown in FIG. 19) output during the specific mode. For example, the production button 26 is configured to protrude from the initial position to the maximum position, and protrudes to a predetermined position between the initial position and the maximum position during the specific mode. Then, the effect button 26 operates to match the rhythm of the specific BGM by protruding to a predetermined position or returning to the initial position. Since the effect button 26 operates in accordance with the rhythm of the specific BGM as described above, the operation pattern of the effect button 26 in the specific mode differs depending on the type of music shown in FIG.

  Here, when a variation effect is performed during the specific mode and the specific effect is performed during the variation effect, the operation of the effect button 26 in accordance with the rhythm of the specific BGM is stopped. Then, at a predetermined timing during the specific effect, the effect button 26 protrudes to the maximum position. Specifically, the effect button 26 protrudes to the maximum position at the timing of transition from the specific effect introduction effect to the main effect (timing when the button image 59 shown in FIG. 26F is displayed).

  Thereafter, when the specific effect ends, the effect button 26 operates again so as to match the rhythm of the specific BGM. When the specific mode ends, the operation of the effect button 26 that matches the rhythm of the specific BGM ends.

  As shown in FIGS. 32 and 33, in the pachinko gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, the effect mode in the specific mode is different from the effect mode in the normal mode.

  That is, while the variable effect is performed in the normal mode (first period), while the variable effect is not performed in the normal mode (second period), while the specific effect is performed in the specific mode (third period), the specific mode During the period when the specific effect is not performed (fourth period), the sound output mode is different. Specifically, audio control is different between the second period in which the changing effect in the normal mode is not performed and the fourth period in which the specified effect in the specific mode is not performed. More specifically, the specific BGM is output in the fourth period, and in the second period, for example, a predetermined BGM is output at a predetermined time interval, or BGM is not output.

  In the present embodiment, the control of the effect using the effect button 26 differs between the normal mode and the specific mode. Specifically, the effect button 26 does not operate during the second period when the variation effect is not performed in the normal mode, and the effect button 26 matches the rhythm of the specific BGM during the fourth period when the specific effect is not performed in the specific mode. To work.

  Further, during the first period in which the changing effect is performed in the normal mode, the effect button 26 may operate depending on the result of the special symbol determination. Specifically, the effect button 26 may operate when a predetermined effect with a high expectation level for the jackpot is performed, and whether or not the effect button 26 operates is based on a variation pattern of a special symbol. . That is, the effect button 26 may operate when a predetermined variation pattern is selected from among a plurality of variation patterns that can be selected in the case of a big hit. Whether or not the effect button 26 is operated is not determined by the variation pattern, and when the specific variation pattern is determined by the game control unit 100, the effect control unit 130 performs a lottery and based on the lottery result. The effect button 26 may be operated.

  On the other hand, in the third period in which the specific effect is performed in the specific mode, the effect button 26 operates at a predetermined timing. The production control using the production button 26 is different from the control in the first period in the normal mode. Specifically, in the first period in which the variation effect is performed in the normal mode, the effect button 26 operates when a predetermined specific variation pattern is selected from among a plurality of variation patterns indicating a jackpot. However, in the third period in which the specific effect is performed in the specific mode, the effect button 26 operates even when the predetermined specific variation pattern is not selected. That is, in the specific mode, regardless of the variation pattern determined by the game control unit 100, in the case of a big win, the specific effect is performed with a relatively high probability (for example, 80%), and whenever the specific effect is performed ( The production button 26 is activated (with a probability of 100%).

  As described above, in the present embodiment, the production control is different between the specific mode and the production mode. That is, the production control differs between the first period (during the normal mode and the changing production) and the third period (during the specific mode and the specific production), and the second period (during the normal mode). The period control is different between the period in which the fluctuation effect is not being performed) and the fourth period (the period in which the specific mode is in progress and not the specific effect).

  Further, common or similar first effect control is performed in the first period and the second period. For example, in the normal mode, the background image 60 in the normal mode is displayed as the background during the change effect and during the change effect. In the normal mode, normal BGM may be output during a fluctuating effect, and may be output during a predetermined BGM (may be the same as normal BGM) during a fluctuating effect. Further, the appearance frequency of the effect using the effect button 26 is common or similar between the first period and the second period.

  In addition, common or similar second effect control is performed in the third period and the fourth period. For example, during the specific mode, the effect button 26 operates according to the rhythm of the specific BGM while the specific effect is not being performed, and the effect button 26 operates at a predetermined timing during the specific effect. Further, during the specific mode, the suggestion images 57a to 57c are displayed in the suggestion effect before the specific effect, and the introduction image 58 is displayed in addition to the suggestion images 57a to 57c at the start of the specific effect. In this way, images that are common or similar are displayed before and during the specific effect in the specific mode.

  The second effect control is not performed in the first period and the second period, and the first effect control is not performed in the third period and the fourth period. That is, the effect control in the specific mode is not performed during the normal mode, and the effect control in the normal mode is not performed during the specific mode.

  FIG. 34 is a diagram comparing the frequency at which an effect using the effect button 26 appears in the specific mode and the frequency at which an effect using the effect button 26 appears in the normal mode.

  As shown in FIG. 34, in the specific mode, when it is determined that the big symbol is determined in the special symbol determination, an effect using the effect button 26 appears at a rate of 80% in the variation of the special symbol related to the special symbol determination. Specifically, when it is determined that the big symbol is determined in the special symbol determination during the specific mode, the specific effect is performed with a probability of 80% (see FIG. 22). During the specific effect, the effect using the effect button 26 (the effect of pressing the effect button 26: FIG. 26F) is always performed (or with a very high probability). For this reason, when it is determined that a big hit is made in the special symbol determination during the specific mode, an effect using the effect button 26 is performed with a relatively high probability.

  When it is determined that the special symbol is determined to be lost during the specific mode, the specific effect is not performed and the effect using the effect button 26 is not performed.

  On the other hand, when the special symbol is determined to be a big hit during the normal mode, an effect using the effect button 26 is performed at a rate of 30% during the variation of the special symbol based on the variation pattern of the special symbol. For example, an effect of causing the player to press the effect button 26 during a reach effect that makes the player expect a big hit is performed. Further, when it is determined that the special symbol determination is lost during the normal mode, an effect using the effect button 26 is performed with a predetermined probability (for example, 0.1%) based on the variation pattern.

  As described above, during the specific mode, when the jackpot is determined, an effect using the effect button 26 is performed with a probability of 80%, and when it is determined that the game is lost, the execution probability of the effect is 0%. Therefore, the appearance probability of the effect using the effect button 26 in the specific mode is 0.8 / 399 (in the case of the normal gaming state) when the big hit time and the lost time are combined. On the other hand, during the normal mode, when it is determined that it is a big hit, an effect using the effect button 26 is performed with a probability of 30%, and when it is determined that it is a loss, it is performed with a probability of 0.1%. The appearance probability of the effect using the effect button 26 in the normal mode is 0.3 / 399 + 398/399 × 0.001 = 0.698 / 399 (in the case of a normal game state) when the big hit time and the lost time are combined. is there. When the result of the special symbol determination is lost, the execution probability of the effect using the effect button 26 is lower in the specific mode than in the normal mode, but in the specific mode when the result of the special symbol determination is a big hit The execution probability of the effect is higher than in the normal mode. As a result, during the specific mode, the appearance frequency of the effect using the effect button 26 that combines the big hit time and the lost time is higher than in the normal mode. In the present embodiment, when the specific effect is performed, the effect using the effect button 26 is performed with a probability of 100%. However, in other embodiments, for example, when the specific effect is performed, the effect button 26 is used. It may be determined by lottery whether or not to perform the effect. In this case, the probability that an effect using the effect button 26 is performed during the specific effect is set to be higher than the probability that the effect is not performed. Specifically, in the normal mode or in the specific mode, the appearance frequency of the effect using the effect button 26 in the specific mode (appearance frequency including the time of big hit or loss) is higher than that in the normal mode. The execution probability of the effect is set.

  An effect using the effect button 26 may also be performed when it is determined that the special symbol determination is lost during the specific mode. For example, the probability that an effect using the effect button 26 is performed is higher when the special symbol determination is determined to be lost during the specific mode than when the special symbol determination is determined to be lost during the normal mode. Also good. In this way, even when the result of the special symbol determination is a loss, an effect using the effect button 26 can be executed during the specific mode, so that the effect using the effect button 26 during the specific mode is greater than during the normal mode. The appearance frequency of can be increased.

  Note that the appearance frequency of the other effects is not limited to the effect using the effect button 26, and may differ between the specific mode and the normal mode. For example, the probability that the movable accessory 7 operates during the specific mode may be higher than that during the normal mode. Further, a specific reach effect or notice effect with a relatively low appearance frequency may be set during the normal mode, and a high appearance frequency may be set during the specific mode.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 35, the execution restriction | limiting of the specific effect at the time of switching between normal mode and specific mode is demonstrated.

  FIG. 35 is a diagram illustrating a state in which execution of the specific effect is prohibited at the timing of switching between the normal mode and the specific mode.

  As shown in FIG. 35, when the normal mode is switched to the specific mode, the specific effect is not performed during the changing effect performed at the timing. Similarly, the specific effect is not performed when the specific mode is switched to the normal mode. In other words, the execution of the specific effect is prohibited in the change of the special symbol performed with the timing at which the normal mode and the specific mode are switched.

  As described above, since the transition to the specific mode is performed according to the elapsed time from the power-on, regardless of whether or not the special symbol is changed, switching from the normal mode to the specific mode, and Switching from the specific mode to the normal mode is performed. If the execution of the specific effect is not prohibited when switching from the normal mode to the specific mode, the specific effect may be performed only halfway or the specific effect may be performed during the normal mode. For example, when the normal mode is switched to the specific mode during the changing effect, if the specific effect is started at the timing when the mode is switched to the specific mode, the specific effect may not end during the changing effect. In order to prevent this, if the timing of starting the specific effect in the variation effect is advanced, the specific effect may be executed before shifting to the specific mode. Further, when the execution of the specific effect is not prohibited when the specific mode is switched to the normal mode, the specific effect may be executed even though the specific mode is ended.

  In order to prevent such a situation, in the present embodiment, execution of the specific effect is prohibited during execution of the fluctuating effect across the timing at which the normal mode and the specific mode are switched. In addition, execution of a specific effect may be restrict | limited in the predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds before and after the switching timing) before and after the timing when a normal mode and specific mode switch.

  In addition, when the normal mode and the specific mode are switched, execution of a part of the specific effect may be restricted. For example, a part of the specific effect may be omitted to shorten the execution time of the specific effect.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, the effect mode is switched from the normal mode to the specific mode based on the establishment of the predetermined condition. The predetermined condition is a condition different from the start condition for performing the special symbol determination (the winning of a game ball to the first start port 11 or the second start port 12), and the predetermined condition is, for example, an elapsed time from power-on. Is the predetermined time. In the present embodiment, the specific mode effect is performed at regular intervals. During the specific mode, a specific effect for informing the jackpot is performed during the change effect according to the change of the special symbol. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the production from becoming monotonous, and to prevent the player from getting bored.

  In this embodiment, the suggestion effect which suggests a specific effect is performed before a specific effect. Thereby, it can be made to expect a player that a specific production is performed. In the present embodiment, the specific effect may not be performed even if the special symbol determination is determined to be a big hit during the specific mode. That is, even if the specific effect is not performed after the suggestion effect, it may be a big hit. For this reason, even if the specific effect is not performed after the suggestion effect, the player can have an expectation for the jackpot.

  In the present embodiment, the specific effect is performed after the display area 54 is reduced in stages and the display area 54 is minimized. For this reason, the player's expectation that the specific effect is performed can be increased as the display area 54 is reduced, and the player's expectation for the jackpot can be increased. That is, in the present embodiment, the degree of expectation that the specific effect is performed is suggested depending on the degree to which the display area 54 is reduced.

  In the present embodiment, since the size of the display area 54 on which the decorative pattern 51 is displayed is reduced stepwise, a suggestion image that suggests a specific effect (big hit) is generated in the area generated by the reduction of the display area 54. Can be displayed.

  Moreover, in this embodiment, since the size of the display area 54 on which the decorative symbol 51 is displayed is reduced stepwise, the visibility of the decorative symbol 51 may be impaired. However, since the small symbol 56 corresponding to the decorative symbol 51 is displayed in a region different from the display region 54, the player can confirm that the special symbol has changed and that the special symbol has stopped. It can be easily recognized by fluctuations and stops.

  In the present embodiment, the specific effect is not performed in the variation effect (variation of special symbols) performed at the timing of switching from the normal mode to the specific mode and the timing of returning from the specific mode to the normal mode. Thereby, for example, it is possible to prevent the specific mode from being ended during the specific effect or the specific effect from being ended halfway.

  Further, in the present embodiment, during the specific mode, the specific BGM is output even when the special symbol is not changed, and the effect button 26 operates to match the rhythm of the specific BGM. Thereby, the stage effect in specific mode can be heightened and interest property can be improved.

  Further, in this embodiment, when the special symbol determination is determined to be a big win during the specific mode, the effect using the effect button 26 (the effect button 26 is projected), compared to the case where the big win is determined during the normal mode. Production) is easy to be performed. For this reason, the appearance frequency of the production | presentation using the production | production button 26 can be raised during specific mode, and interest property can be improved.

[Timer interrupt processing by production control unit 130]
Next, details of effect control based on various commands from the game control unit 100 will be described with reference to FIGS. 36 to 44.

  FIG. 36 is a flowchart illustrating an example of timer interruption processing performed in the effect control unit 130. A part or all of the processes shown in FIGS. 36 to 43 described below may be executed by any of the effect control unit 130, the image sound control unit 140, and the lamp control unit 150. When the power of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is turned on, the CPU 131 of the effect control unit 130 repeatedly executes a series of processes shown in FIG. 36 every predetermined time (for example, 4 milliseconds) by interruption.

  The effect control unit 130 first executes command reception processing (step S1001). The command reception process of step S1001 is a process of controlling the presentation according to various commands from the game control unit 100. Specifically, the effect control unit 130 receives a command from the game control unit 100, determines the contents of the effect according to the received command, and determines the determined effect based on the image sound control unit 140 and the lamp control unit 150. A command to be executed is generated and set in the RAM 133. Details of the command reception process in step S1001 will be described later with reference to FIG.

  Following the process of step S1001, the effect control unit 130 executes an operation reception process (step S1002). Specifically, when the effect button 26 or the effect key 27 is operated, the CPU 131 generates an operation command corresponding to the operation and sets it in the RAM 133.

  Subsequent to step S1002, the effect control unit 130 performs command transmission processing for transmitting each command set in the RAM 133 to the image sound control unit 140 and the lamp control unit 150 (step S1003). For example, a command for starting the fluctuating effect set in the process of step S1001 and a command indicating that the effect button 26 has been pressed are transmitted to the image sound control unit 140 and the lamp control unit 150. Thus, the image sound control unit 140 produces an effect by image display, audio output, and the like, and the lamp control unit 150 performs operations of the movable accessory, lighting of various lamps, and operations of the effect button 26. Above, the process shown in FIG. 36 is complete | finished.

[Command reception processing by effect control unit 130]
Hereinafter, the command reception process executed in the effect control unit 130 will be described with reference to FIG. Here, FIG. 37 is a flowchart showing an example of command reception processing in step S1001 of FIG.

  First, the effect control unit 130 determines whether or not a hold command transmitted from the game control unit 100 has been received (step S1301). When it determines with having received the hold command (step S1301: YES), the production control unit 130 executes the hold command process (step S1302).

  In the process of step S1302, the effect control unit 130 determines whether or not to perform a predetermination effect based on the predetermination information included in the hold command, and executes the predetermination effect according to the determination result. For example, the effect control unit 130 determines whether or not the jackpot is based on the prior determination information, and determines the display mode of the hold image corresponding to the received hold command according to the determination result. In addition, the effect control unit 130 sets a command for displaying a hold image corresponding to the received hold command, or sets a command for lighting various lamps. These commands are transmitted to the image sound control unit 140 and the lamp control unit 150 in step S1003.

  When the process of step S1302 is executed, or when it is determined that the hold command is not received (step S1301: NO), the effect control unit 130 determines whether or not a variation start command is received (step S1303). ).

  When the change start command is received (step S1303: YES), the effect control unit 130 executes the change start command process (step S1304). Here, the effect control unit 130 analyzes, based on the received variation start command, whether the result of the special symbol determination is a jackpot, a jackpot symbol (type of jackpot) in the case of a jackpot, a variation pattern, or the like. And the production | presentation control part 130 determines the content of the fluctuation production performed with the fluctuation | variation of a special symbol based on an analysis result. Specifically, the effect control unit 130 performs a notice effect, a reach effect, or a movable accessory performed in the liquid crystal display 5 based on the change pattern included in the change start command and the effect random number for determining the effect. And the contents of the production using various lamps. Then, the effect control unit 130 sets a change effect start command for causing the image sound control unit 140 and the lamp control unit 150 to execute the determined change effect.

  When the process of step S1304 is executed, or when it is determined that a variation start command has not been received (step S1303: NO), the effect control unit 130 determines whether a variation stop command has been received (step S1303). S1305).

  When the change stop command is received (step S1305: YES), the effect control unit 130 executes the change stop command process (step S1306). Specifically, the effect control unit 130 sets a variable effect end command transmitted to the image sound control unit 140 and the lamp control unit 150. By transmitting the command to the image sound control unit 140, for example, the decorative symbol 51 that is variably displayed on the liquid crystal display 5 is stopped, and the variation effect ends.

  When the process of step S1306 is executed, or when it is determined that the change stop command has not been received (step S1305: NO), the effect control unit 130 determines whether an opening command has been received (step S1307). ).

  When the opening command is received (step S1307: YES), the effect control unit 130 performs an opening process (step S1308). The opening process is a process of determining an opening effect that is performed when a jackpot game is started and a jackpot effect that is performed during the jackpot game. The effect control unit 130 determines the contents of the opening effect and the jackpot effect according to the type of jackpot, and sets commands for causing the image sound control unit 140 and the lamp control unit 150 to execute these effects.

  When the process of step S1308 is executed, or when it is determined that the opening command has not been received (step S1307: NO), the effect control unit 130 determines whether an ending command has been received (step S1309). .

  When the ending command is received (step S1309: YES), the effect control unit 130 executes an ending process (step S1310). The ending process is a process for determining an ending effect to be performed when the jackpot game ends. The effect control unit 130 sets a command for executing the ending effect by transmitting a command based on the result of the ending process to the image sound control unit 140 and the lamp control unit 150.

  When the process of step S1310 is executed or when it is determined that the ending command has not been received (step S1309: NO), the effect control unit 130 ends the process shown in FIG.

  The effect control unit 130 receives a customer waiting command from the game control unit 100 in addition to each process according to the command, and performs a process based on the customer waiting command. The effect control unit 130 sets a command for causing the image acoustic control unit 140 and the lamp control unit 150 to perform a waiting display (display using images and various lamps) and a sound output. As a result, after a predetermined time has elapsed since the reception of the customer waiting command, the customer waiting state is displayed or a sound is output.

[Timer interrupt processing by the image sound control unit 140]
Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 38, processing executed in the image sound control unit 140 will be described. Here, FIG. 38 is a flowchart showing an example of timer interruption processing by the image sound control unit 140. The image sound control unit 140 repeatedly executes a series of processes shown in FIG. 38 at regular time intervals (for example, 33 milliseconds) in a normal operation except for special cases such as when the power is turned on and when the power is turned off. Each process illustrated in FIG. 38 is performed by the CPU 141 or the VDP of the image sound control unit 140, but description will be made assuming that the image sound control unit 140 performs the process illustrated in FIG.

  First, the image sound control unit 140 performs an RTC information acquisition process (step S1401). Specifically, the image sound control unit 140 transmits a command for acquiring the current date and time counted by the RTC 134 to the effect control unit 130, and effects control of the date and time information is performed according to the command. Acquired from the unit 130.

  Next, the image sound control unit 140 performs measurement processing (step S1402). The details of the measurement process will be described below with reference to FIG.

(Measurement process)
FIG. 39 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the measurement process in step S1402.

  As shown in FIG. 39, the image sound control unit 140 performs a counting process of adding 1 to the counter N stored in the internal memory (step S1421). Subsequently, the image sound control unit 140 determines, based on the value of the counter N, whether or not the start time of the pre-transition effect has come (step S1422). Here, the “pre-transition effect” is an effect in which the pre-transition images 65 are sequentially displayed as time elapses from a predetermined time before the transition to the special mode described above (for example, 30 seconds before).

  When it determines with it being the start time of the pre-transition effect (step S1422: YES), the image sound control unit 140 sets the pre-transition flag to ON (step S1423).

  When the process of step S1423 is performed or when NO is determined in step S1422, the image sound control unit 140 determines whether the specific mode start time has come based on the value of the counter N (step S1424). ). The specific mode start time is determined in advance. For example, the first specific mode start time after power-on is the time when 30 minutes have elapsed since power-on. Since the timer interruption process shown in FIG. 38 is repeatedly performed at regular intervals, the image sound control unit 140 determines whether the value of the counter N is a value corresponding to 30 minutes after the power is turned on, thereby starting the specific mode. It can be determined whether or not it is time.

  When it is determined that the specific mode start time has come (step S1424: YES), the image sound control unit 140 sets the specific mode flag to ON (step S1425), sets the pre-migration flag to OFF (step S1426), A reset process for setting “0” to the counter N is performed (step S1427).

  When the process of step S1427 is performed, or when NO is determined in step S1424, the image sound control unit 140 ends the process shown in FIG.

  Returning to FIG. 38, following step S1402, the image sound control unit 140 determines whether or not the pre-migration flag is ON (step S1403). If it is determined that the pre-migration flag is ON (step S1403: YES), the image sound control unit 140 performs pre-migration effect control processing (step S1404). Specifically, in the pre-transition effect control process, the image sound control unit 140 displays the pre-transition image 65 indicating the transition to the specific mode on the liquid crystal display 5 in accordance with the remaining time until the specific mode. Thus, the pre-migration image 65 indicating the time until the start of the specific mode is selected, and an area for displaying the image is set. The selected pre-migration image 65 is displayed on the liquid crystal display 5 by performing a drawing process in step S1462 of FIG.

  When the process of step S1404 is performed, or when it is determined NO in step S1403, the image sound control unit 140 determines whether or not the specific mode flag is ON (step S1405). If it is determined that the specific mode flag is ON (step S1405: YES), the image sound control unit 140 performs the process of step S1406.

  In step S1406, the image sound control unit 140 performs a specific mode control process. The specific mode control process in step S1406 is a process for outputting an image and sound displayed on the liquid crystal display 5 in the specific mode. Details of the specific mode control process will be described later.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the specific mode flag is OFF (step S1405: NO), the image sound control unit 140 performs the process of step S1407 next.

  In step S1407, the image sound control unit 140 performs a normal mode control process. The normal mode control process in step S1407 is a process for outputting an image and sound displayed on the liquid crystal display 5 in the normal mode. Details of the normal mode control processing will be described later.

  When the process of step S1406 or step S1407 is performed, the image sound control unit 140 performs an image output process (step S1408). The image output process is a process of outputting the image drawn in the frame buffer to the liquid crystal display 5, and by performing this process, the image drawn in the frame buffer by the image acoustic control unit 140 is changed to the liquid crystal display 5. Is displayed.

  Next, the image sound control unit 140 performs audio output processing (step S1409). By performing this sound output process, various sounds (specific BGM, specific effect sound, normal mode BGM, change effect sound in the normal mode, etc.) are output from the speaker.

  The image sound control unit 140 performs a data transmission control process (step S1410). Specifically, the image sound control unit 140 transmits the button control command set in step S1406 or step S1407 to the effect control unit 130. Above, the process shown in FIG. 38 is complete | finished.

[Specific Mode Control Processing by Image Sound Control Unit 140]
Details of the specific mode control process will be described below with reference to FIG. FIG. 40 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the specific mode control process in step S1406.

  As shown in FIG. 40, the image sound control unit 140 determines whether or not the specific mode is being performed (step S1431). When the specific mode has already been started in step S1434 described later, the image sound control unit 140 determines that the specific mode is being performed. If the specific mode has already been started (step S1431: YES), the image sound control unit 140 determines whether it is the end time of the specific mode (step S1442).

  On the other hand, when it determines with not being in specific mode (step S1431: NO), the image sound control part 140 performs a music selection process (step S1432). Specifically, the image sound control unit 140 selects any one piece of music (specific BGM) from a plurality of pieces of music shown in FIG. 19 based on the information regarding the current date and time acquired in step S1401. The image sound control unit 140 stores a table storing information related to a plurality of music pieces, and conditions for selecting music pieces are defined in the table. For example, the music D shown in FIG. 19 can be selected after a predetermined date. The image sound control unit 140 selects any one of a plurality of selectable songs included in this table. In addition, one music may be selected in order among several selectable music included in the table, one music may be selected at random, or a music may be selected by the player. .

  Subsequent to the processing in step S1432, the image sound control unit 140 sets the time for the specific mode based on the selected music (step S1433), and starts the specific mode (step S1434). In addition, when starting a specific mode, the specific mode start effect for alert | reporting that a specific mode starts is displayed. For example, the specific mode start effect is displayed on the entire screen of the liquid crystal display 5, and the effect of changing according to the change of the special symbol and the effect during the big hit game are displayed in a part of the area of the liquid crystal display 5. Good. For example, during the specific mode start effect, a variable effect (decorative symbol 51 or the like) is displayed in the lower left area of the screen, and the small symbol 56 is displayed in the lower right corner of the screen.

  When the specific mode is started (step S1434), the image sound control unit 140 sets the display area 54 in a partial area of the screen (step S1435).

  When the process of step S1435 is performed, or when NO is determined in step S1442, the image sound control unit 140 executes the command process A (step S1436). The command process A is a process for controlling various effects according to commands from the effect control unit 130 for controlling various effects (such as a fluctuation effect, an opening effect, and a jackpot effect). For example, in the command process A, when the variation effect start command indicating the start of the variation effect is transmitted from the effect control unit 130, a process of starting the variation effect is performed.

(Command processing A)
Details of the command processing A will be described below. FIG. 41 is a flowchart showing an example of command processing A in step S1436.

  The image sound control unit 140 determines whether or not a variation effect start command is received from the effect control unit 130 (step S1451). When the variation effect start command is received (step S1451: YES), the image sound control unit 140 determines whether or not it is a big hit (step S1452).

  In the case of a big win (step S1452: YES), the image sound control unit 140 performs a determination process as to whether or not to execute the suggestion effect and the specific effect (step S1453). Specifically, the image sound control unit 140 determines whether or not the specific mode is ended during the change of the special symbol based on the remaining time until the end of the specific mode and the change time of the special symbol of the current time. If the specific mode ends while the special symbol is changing, it is determined that the suggestion effect and the specific effect are not executed. Further, when the specific mode does not end during the variation of the special symbol this time, the image sound control unit 140 determines to execute the specific effect by performing a lottery using a random number. If it is determined that the specific effect is to be executed, a suggestion effect is also performed before the specific effect. In addition, when the specific mode is not terminated during the change of the special symbol this time, when it is determined that the specific effect is not executed, the image sound control unit 140 determines whether or not to execute the suggestive effect. Note that the effect control unit 130 may determine whether to execute the suggestion effect and the specific effect in step S1453.

  On the other hand, when it is not a big hit (step S1452: NO), the image sound control unit 140 performs a process of determining whether or not to execute only the suggestion effect (step S1454). When it is determined that only the suggestion effect is executed, the image sound control unit 140 determines the stage of the suggestion effect. That is, when performing the suggestion effect, the image sound control unit 140 determines which of the suggestion images 57a to 57c is to be displayed.

  When the process of step S1453 or step S1454 is performed, the image sound control unit 140 starts a variation effect (step S1455). Thereby, the change production according to the change of the special symbol is started. For example, if it is determined in step S1453 that the suggestion effect and the specific effect are to be performed, the content of the variation effect determined by the effect control unit 130 based on the variation pattern of the special symbol (the notice effect or the reach effect also performed in the normal mode) Etc.), suggesting effects and specific effects are performed. In addition, if it is determined in step S1454 that the suggestion effect is to be performed, in addition to the content of the variation effect determined by the effect control unit 130 based on the variation pattern (the notice effect or the reach effect that is also performed in the normal mode), Suggestion production is performed.

  On the other hand, when it determines with NO by step S1451, the image sound control part 140 performs other command processing (step S1456). For example, the image sound control unit 140 ends the variation effect when a variation effect end command is received from the effect control unit 130. Thereby, the decorative design 51 and the small design 56 in the display area 54 are stopped and displayed. Moreover, the image sound control part 140 starts execution of a jackpot effect, when the command which shows execution of the jackpot effect is received from the effect control part 130, for example.

  When the process of step S1455 or step S1456 is performed, the image sound control unit 140 ends the process shown in FIG. 41 and returns the process to FIG.

  Returning to FIG. 40, following the command processing A in step S1436, the image sound control unit 140 performs display area update processing (step S1437). Specifically, in the display area update process, the image sound control unit 140 determines the position and size of the display area 54 on the screen according to the execution status of the suggestion effect when the suggestion effect in the variation effect is being executed. Set. By performing the display area update process, the display area 54 is reduced or the display area 54 is returned to a predetermined size (for example, the size shown in FIG. 25A) in accordance with the execution state of the effect. The display area 54 is rotated.

  FIG. 44 is a diagram for explaining the setting of the position and size of the display area 54. As shown in FIG. 44, the image sound control unit 140 sets the size and position of the display area 54 and rotates the display area 54 by setting the four vertices V1 to V4 of the display area 54. .

  In the present embodiment, during the suggestion effect of the variation effect, the display area 54 may be reduced depending on whether or not it is a big hit, but during other effects (during the variation effect where the suggestion effect is not performed, During the big hit game, waiting for customers, etc.), the display area 54 remains the predetermined size. For this reason, when the suggestion effect is not being performed, the display area 54 is not reduced. Note that the display area 54 is not set during the specific mode start effect, the specific effect, or the jackpot notification effect that is performed when shifting to the specific mode (FIGS. 26E to 26G and (I). )).

  Subsequent to step S1437, the image sound control unit 140 draws the images of the layers LA1 to LA3 and the frame image of the display area 54 shown in FIG. 29A in the virtual frame buffer (step S1438). At this time, the image sound control unit 140 draws each image in the virtual frame buffer so that the frame image is in front of the other images. That is, here, the image displayed in the display area 54 is generated on the virtual frame buffer of the image sound control unit 140. As a result, an image including the background image 60, the preview image, the decorative design 51, and the like displayed as the background in the normal mode is generated.

  Thus, in this embodiment, since an image is drawn in the virtual frame buffer, it is possible to prevent an increase in processing load when the display area 54 is reduced or rotated. Further, the display area 54 can be reduced or rotated at an arbitrary timing. That is, the size of the image drawn in the virtual frame buffer is changed or rotated by designating the position of each vertex V as shown in FIG. Specifically, the images of the layers LA1 to LA3 are once drawn as one image in the virtual frame buffer, and the one drawn image is developed in the layer LB3 of the frame buffer (actual frame buffer) in the next step S1438. The For example, by specifying four vertices as shown in FIG. 44 for the image of the layer LB3, the image can be rotated or enlarged / reduced on the actual frame buffer. That is, the images of the layers LA1 to LA3 are once drawn in the virtual frame buffer to generate one image, and the one image is developed on the layer LB3 of the real frame buffer, thereby specifying each vertex for the one image. By simply doing this, it is possible to rotate or reduce a plurality of images (background image 60, preview image, decorative design 51, etc.) included in the one image at a time. Therefore, it is possible to easily rotate or reduce only the display area 54 while maintaining the rotation and size of other images (such as the hold image and the suggestion image) other than the display area 54. On the other hand, if each image is drawn in the real frame buffer without drawing the images of the layers LA1 to LA3 in the virtual frame buffer, it is necessary to rotate or enlarge / reduce each image, which increases the load. However, in this embodiment, the images in the layers LA1 to LA3 are first drawn in the virtual frame buffer, and the vertex in the virtual frame buffer is designated and drawn in the real frame buffer. The load can be reduced as compared with the case where each is directly drawn in the real frame buffer.

  Subsequent to step S1438, the image sound control unit 140 draws an image in the frame buffer (actual frame buffer) (step S1439). Specifically, the image sound control unit 140 draws, for example, an image in which the layers LB1 to LB6 illustrated in FIG. More specifically, with the background image 61 in the specific mode as the lowest layer, the image drawn in the virtual frame buffer in step S1438 (the image in the display area 54), the suggestive effect image, the small symbol 56 image, the reserved image 52 is drawn in the frame buffer. The image drawn in the frame buffer in step S1439 is output to the liquid crystal display 5 in the image output process in step S1408. Thereby, images as illustrated in FIGS. 25A to 25D are displayed on the screen of the liquid crystal display 5.

  In this example, the suggestion effect in the variation effect is described as an example. However, during the specific effect, the image of the specific effect is arranged in the layer LB4 in FIG. 29B, and the layers LB1 to LB3 and the reserved image are displayed. 52 layer LB6 is not drawn. For this reason, during the specific effect, an image of the specific effect is displayed on the entire screen of the liquid crystal display 5 and a small symbol 56 is displayed. Further, during the specific mode start effect at the start of the specific mode, the image of the specific mode start effect is displayed on the entire screen, and the decorative symbol 51, the small symbol 56, the reserved image 52, and the like are displayed.

  Subsequent to step S1439, the image sound control unit 140 performs a sound control process (step S1440). Specifically, the image sound control unit 140 sets the volume of the music (specific BGM) selected in step S1432, the sound effect during the changing effect, and the sound of the specific effect according to the execution status of the effect, Process to output.

  Subsequent to step S1440, the image sound control unit 140 sets a button control command for controlling the effect button 26 according to the execution state of the effect (step S1441). Specifically, the image sound control unit 140 sets a button control command for operating the effect button 26 when it is not in a specific effect and is at a predetermined timing that matches the rhythm of the music being played. . Further, the image sound control unit 140 sets a button control command for operating the effect button 26 when it is time to operate the effect button 26 during the specific effect. In addition, the image sound control unit 140 sets a button control command for operating the effect button 26 when it is time to operate the effect button 26 in the variable effect that is not in the specific effect. The button control command is transmitted to the effect control unit 130 in the data transmission control process of step S1410, and is transmitted from the effect control unit 130 to the lamp control unit 150.

  On the other hand, when the specific mode has already been started (step S1431: YES), the image sound control unit 140 determines whether it is the end time of the specific mode (step S1442). Specifically, the image sound control unit 140 determines whether or not the elapsed time from the start of the specific mode in step S1434 has reached the time set in step S1433, so that it is the end time of the specific mode. Determine whether.

  When it is the end time of the specific mode (step S1442: YES), the image sound control unit 140 sets the specific mode flag to OFF (step S1443) and ends the specific mode (step S1444). Specifically, in step S1444, the image sound control unit 140 cancels the setting of the display area 54 and ends the reproduction of the music piece (specific BGM). Thereby, the normal mode is returned from the specific mode. Then, the image sound control unit 140 performs a normal mode control process similar to step S1407 (step S1445).

  When the process of step S1441 or the process of step S1445 is performed, the image sound control unit 140 ends the process illustrated in FIG.

[Normal Mode Control Processing by Image Sound Control Unit 140]
Details of the normal mode control process will be described below with reference to FIG. FIG. 42 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the normal mode control process in step S1407.

  The image sound control unit 140 first executes command processing B (step S1461). The command process B is a process according to various commands from the effect control unit 130 as in the command process A described above.

  Details of the command processing B will be described below. FIG. 43 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the command process B in step S1461.

  The image sound control unit 140 determines whether or not a variation effect start command has been received from the effect control unit 130 (step S1471). When the variation effect start command is received (step S1471: YES), the image sound control unit 140 starts the variation effect according to the variation effect start command (step S1472). Specifically, the image sound control unit 140 starts the variation effect according to the content of the variation effect determined in the effect control unit 130 based on the variation pattern from the game control unit 100.

  On the other hand, if it is determined NO in step S1471, the image sound control unit 140 performs other command processing (step S1473). For example, the image sound control unit 140 ends the variation effect when a variation effect end command is received from the effect control unit 130. As a result, the decorative pattern 51 is stopped and displayed on the liquid crystal display 5. Moreover, the image sound control part 140 starts execution of a jackpot effect, when the command which shows execution of the jackpot effect is received from the effect control part 130, for example.

  When the process of step S1472 or step S1473 is performed, the image sound control unit 140 ends the process illustrated in FIG. 43 and returns the process to FIG.

  Returning to FIG. 42, the image sound control unit 140 draws an image in the frame buffer (step S1462). Specifically, the image sound control unit 140 draws, for example, an image in which the layers LA1 to LA4 illustrated in FIG. The image drawn in the frame buffer in step S1462 is output to the liquid crystal display 5 in the image output process in step S1408.

  Subsequently, the image sound control unit 140 performs a sound control process (step S1463). Specifically, the image sound control unit 140 sets a volume of a normal mode BGM, a sound effect or the like during a variation effect, and performs processing for outputting various sounds according to the execution state of the effect.

  And the image sound control part 140 sets the button control command for controlling the production button 26 according to the execution condition of production (step S1464). For example, when it is time to perform an effect using the effect button 26 in the variable effect, the image sound control unit 140 sets a button control command. The button control command is transmitted to the effect control unit 130 in the data transmission control process of step S1410, and is transmitted from the effect control unit 130 to the lamp control unit 150. Above, the process shown in FIG. 42 is complete | finished.

[Modification]
In addition, this invention is not limited to the said embodiment, The following forms may be sufficient.

  For example, in the above-described embodiment, the degree of expectation that a specific effect is performed as the display area 54 is reduced (the degree of expectation that a jackpot game is performed) is high, but the specific effect is performed as the display area 54 is enlarged. Expectation may be high. That is, the degree of expectation may be suggested according to the degree to which the display area 54 is enlarged or reduced.

  In the above embodiment, the specific effect may or may not be performed after the suggestion effect, but the specific effect may always be performed after the suggestion effect. In other words, when the big hit is determined during the specific mode, the specific effect is performed after the suggestion effect is performed, and when the loss is determined, both the suggestion effect and the specific effect may not be performed. .

  In the above embodiment, the transition from the normal mode to the specific mode is performed when the elapsed time from power-on is a predetermined time. That is, the transition from the normal mode to the specific mode is performed in response to the establishment of a predetermined condition that is not based on the result of the special symbol determination. In another embodiment, for example, when a predetermined effect is performed as a variable effect, the mode may be shifted to a specific mode. In another embodiment, when the jackpot game is played a predetermined number of times, or when the number of prize balls in the jackpot game is equal to or greater than a predetermined number, the mode may be shifted to the specific mode. That is, based on the fact that a predetermined condition based on the result of the special symbol determination is satisfied, the normal mode may be shifted to the specific mode.

  In the above embodiment, when switching between the specific mode and the normal mode is performed during the change of the special symbol, the execution of the specific effect is prohibited in the change of the special symbol. In another embodiment, a certain period including the switching timing between the specific mode and the normal mode may be determined as a period during which execution of the specific effect is prohibited. For example, a certain period before the switching timing from the specific mode to the normal mode may be set as a prohibition period in which execution of the specific effect is prohibited. In this case, the prohibition period is set longer than the longest variation time of the special symbol. In other words, by making the prohibition period longer than the longest fluctuation time of the special symbol, if the special symbol starts to change before entering this prohibition period, the special symbol change must be made before switching from the specific mode to the normal mode. Since the process ends, a specific effect can always be performed during the specific mode.

  In the above embodiment, the appearance frequency of the effect using the effect button 26 is different between the specific mode and the normal mode. However, the appearance frequency of other effects is not limited to the effect using the effect button 26. It may be different between the specific mode and the normal mode. For example, during the specific mode, the probability that the movable accessory 7 or other effect accessory will operate may be higher than in the normal mode. In the specific mode, the probability that an effect using a predetermined image is performed may be higher (or lower) than in the normal mode. Further, the probability that a predetermined sound is output during the specific mode may be higher (or lower) than during the normal mode.

  In addition, the configuration of the pachinko gaming machine 1 described in the above embodiment is merely an example, and it goes without saying that the present invention can be realized with other configurations. Further, the order of processing, the set value, the threshold value used for determination, etc. in the flowcharts described above are merely examples, and the present invention can be realized with other orders and values without departing from the scope of the present invention. Needless to say.

  In the above embodiment, the case where the present invention is applied to a pachinko gaming machine has been described as an example. However, the present invention is also applicable to other gaming machines such as a slot machine.

[Configuration of gaming machine according to the present invention and its effects]
As described above, the gaming machine according to the present invention may have the following configuration. Note that parentheses indicate correspondence with the embodiment, and are merely examples.

  The gaming machine according to one embodiment of the present invention provides an effect based on a determination unit (S407) that determines whether or not to perform a special game based on the establishment of the start condition, and a determination result by the determination unit. An effect execution means (130) to be executed and an effect mode switching means (S1425) for switching from the normal effect mode to the specific effect mode when a predetermined condition is satisfied, wherein the effect executing means is in the specific effect mode. A specific effect executing means (S1453) for executing a specific effect for notifying that the special game is performed, and an suggested effect executing means for executing a suggestive effect suggesting that the specific effect is performed. (S1453), and the effect executing means performs the suggestion effect when it is determined that the determination means performs a special game during the specific effect mode. Later, it executes the specific effect.

  According to this gaming machine, in the specific effect mode, a specific effect that notifies that a special game is performed is performed. Since the suggestion effect is performed before the execution of the specific effect, the player can have an expectation that the specific effect will be performed, and the interest can be improved.

  A gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a determination unit (S407) that determines whether or not to perform a special game based on the establishment of a start condition, and an image display unit (5) that displays a predetermined image. And setting means (S1435) for setting a predetermined display area (54) in the image display means, and display control means (S1408) for displaying an effect image based on the determination result by the determination means in the predetermined display area. And an area enlargement / reduction means (S1437) for enlarging or reducing the predetermined display area based on the determination result by the determination means, and depending on the degree to which the predetermined display area is enlarged or reduced by the area enlargement / reduction means, The degree of expectation for the special game to be played is suggested.

  According to this gaming machine, it is possible to suggest a degree of expectation that a special game will be performed by enlarging or reducing the display area for displaying the effect image.

  A gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a determination unit (S407) that determines whether or not to perform a special game based on the establishment of a start condition, and an image display unit (5) that displays a predetermined image. And a first display control means (S1439) for displaying a predetermined effect image in a first display area (display area 54 before reduction) of a predetermined size in the image display means, and reducing the first display area. Area reduction means (S1437) for setting a second display area (display area 54 after reduction), and the predetermined effect image on the second display area where the first display area is reduced by the area reduction means. Second display control means (S1439) to display, and a suggestion image that suggests that the special game is performed in the third display area generated by reducing the first display area to the second display area Display And a display control means (S1439).

  According to the said structure, a suggestion image can be displayed on the area | region produced by reducing the display area where an effect image is displayed, and it can be suggested that a special game is performed.

  A gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention is configured to determine whether or not to perform a special game based on the establishment of the start condition (S407); An effect mode switching means (S1425) for switching to the effect mode and an effect control means (130, 140) for controlling the effect based on the determination result by the determination means, the effect control means being determined by the determination means. A notification effect executing means for performing a notification effect to notify the result (a jackpot notification using the decorative symbol 51) and an effect performed during the specific effect mode, wherein the special game is performed before the notification effect. A specific effect executing means for executing a specific effect for informing the user and a specific effect determining means (S1453) for determining whether or not to perform the specific effect. When the determination means determines that a special game is to be performed, based on a determination result by the specific effect determination means, a first effect control that performs the notification effect after executing the specific effect, and the determination means When it is determined that a special game is to be performed, it is possible to perform any one of the second effect control in which the notification effect is performed without executing the specific effect based on the determination result by the specific effect determining unit. is there.

  According to the said structure, the specific effect which alert | reports that a special game is performed during specific effect mode is performed. When it is determined that a special game is to be performed, a specific effect may or may not be performed, so that the player has an expectation that a jackpot game will be performed even if the specific effect is not performed Can do.

  The gaming machine according to one embodiment of the present invention has a determination means (S407) for determining whether or not to play a special game based on the establishment of the start condition, and a symbol display based on the determination result by the determination means. Based on the determination result by the determination means by the symbol control means (S410, S414) for notifying the determination result by the determination means by stopping the means (41, 42) after changing the symbol. An effect control means for controlling the effect being changed, and an effect mode switching means (S1425) for switching from the normal effect mode to the specific effect mode when a predetermined condition is satisfied, wherein the effect control means is based on the determination means. Based on the determination result, a specific effect executioner that executes a specific effect that is performed during the specific effect mode and notifies that the special game is performed. And when the normal effect mode and the specific effect mode are switched by the effect mode switching means during the variation of the symbol, the limiting means (S1453) for restricting the execution of the specific effect in the variation of the symbol, Including.

  According to the above configuration, the execution of the specific effect can be restricted in the variation of the symbol performed when the normal effect mode and the specific effect mode are switched, so that the specific effect can be surely performed during the specific effect mode. Can be controlled.

  A gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention is configured to determine whether or not to perform a special game based on the establishment of the start condition (S407); An effect mode switching means (S1425) for switching to the effect mode, and a first effect control means (S1425) for controlling the effect in the first period during the normal effect mode and in which the effect based on the determination result by the determination means is performed. 32, 33, S1462-4) and second effect control means for controlling the effect in the second period in which the effect based on the determination result by the determination means is not performed during the normal effect mode. 32, FIG. 33, S1462-4) and the control of the effect in the third period in which the specific effect is performed based on the determination result by the determination means in the specific effect mode. Third effect control means (FIGS. 32, 33, S1439 to S1441) and the effect control in the fourth period in which the specific effect based on the determination result by the determination means is not performed during the specific effect mode. Fourth effect control means (FIGS. 32, 33, S1439 to S1441), and the effect mode in the first period is different from the effect mode in the third period, and the effect mode in the second period This is different from the effect mode in the fourth period.

  According to the above-described configuration, the production mode is divided between the period in which the production based on the determination result by the determination unit in the normal production mode and the period in which the specific production based on the determination result by the determination unit in the specific production mode is performed. Can be different. In addition, the production mode is different between a period in which the production based on the determination result by the determination unit in the normal production mode is not performed and a period in which the specific production based on the determination result by the determination unit in the specific production mode is not performed. be able to. In this way, by changing the production mode in each period, it is possible to improve the interest and prevent the player from getting bored.

  In addition, in a gaming machine having another configuration, a common or similar first effect control is performed in the first period and the second period, and a common or similar second effect is performed in the third period and the fourth period. Production control may be performed.

  Further, in a gaming machine having another configuration, the second effect control is not performed in the first period and the second period, and the first effect control is not performed in the third period and the fourth period. May be.

  The gaming machine according to the present invention is configured to determine whether or not to perform a special game based on the establishment of the start condition, and to switch from the normal effect mode to the specific effect mode when the predetermined condition is satisfied. An effect mode switching means (S1425) and an effect control means for controlling the effect based on the determination result by the determination means, wherein the effect control means is determined by the determination means during the normal effect mode. Is a specific result, the first predetermined effect is executed with a first probability, and during the specific effect mode, if the determination result by the determination means is the specific result, it is higher than the first probability. A second predetermined effect that is the same as or similar to the first predetermined effect is executed with a second probability (FIG. 34, S1453, S1472).

  According to the above configuration, the execution probability of the same or similar predetermined effect can be different between the normal effect mode and the specific effect mode, and the appearance probability of the predetermined effect is increased during the specific effect mode. Can do.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Pachinko machine 5 Liquid crystal display 7 Movable accessory 11 1st starting opening 12 2nd starting opening 13 Extra prize opening 26 Production button 41 1st special symbol display 42 2nd special symbol display 51 Decoration symbol 52 Hold image 54 Display area 55 Specific mode display image 56 Small design 57 Suggestion image 58 Introduction image 59 Button image 60 Background image (Normal mode)
61 Background image (specific mode)
62 Background image (during reach production)
65 Image before transition 100 Game control unit 101 CPU
130 Production control unit 140 Image sound control unit 150 Lamp control unit

Claims (1)

Determination means for determining whether or not to perform a special game based on the establishment of the start condition;
Based on the determination result by the determination means, the symbol display means notifies the determination result by the determination means by causing the symbol display means to change and then stop,
Based on the determination result by the determination means, the effect control means for controlling the effect during the variation of the symbol,
When the predetermined condition is satisfied, the production mode switching means for switching from the normal production mode to the specific production mode,
The production control means includes
Based on the determination result by the determination means, a specific effect that is not performed during the normal effect mode and is performed during the specific effect mode and suggests that the special game is performed can be executed. Specific production execution means,
A game machine comprising: an explanation image display means capable of displaying an explanation image explaining that the possibility that the special game is likely to be performed when the specific effect is executed.

Images