JP2016104179A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine capable of executing a novel performance using operation means operable by a player.SOLUTION: A performance button operation input receivable period P0 is provided during a single notification performance (during a variable display of special symbols). When the operation input receivable period P0 is started, a message 61 prompting a player to input an operation of a performance button, an image of a performance button 37, and a gage 62 representing a residual time of the performance button operation input receivable period P0 are displayed on a screen display part. When a display mode is changed with a time lapse, the gage 62 notifies of a decrease in the residual time of the performance button operation input receivable period P0. The gage 62 displays it in a same initial display mode in a case where a length of the performance button operation input receivable period P0 is N1 seconds and a case of a time other than the N1 seconds.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 13

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine played by a player.

  Many gaming machines in recent years have input devices that can be operated by a player, such as effect buttons and levers, and can often perform effects based on the operation of the input device by the player. For example, a gaming machine capable of executing an effect of changing a display image in response to a press of an effect button, an effect of operating a movable accessory in response to an operation of the effect button, and the like (for example, non-patent literature) 1).

“Pachinko Hissatsu Guide”, Hakuyo Shobo Co., Ltd., issued January 1, 2012, January 1, 2012 issue, page 17, CR Pachinko Special Killer IV, “Dark Screen Disruption Notice”, “Main Water Must Kill Reach”

  There is a strong demand for gaming machines not only for the enjoyment of acquiring game media but also for the enjoyment of production.

  Therefore, a main object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine capable of executing a novel effect using operation means that can be operated by a player.

  In order to achieve the above object, one aspect of the present invention employs the following configuration. Note that reference numerals in parentheses, explanatory texts, step numbers, and the like indicate correspondence with embodiments described later in order to help understanding of one aspect of the present invention. It does not limit the range at all.

The gaming machine according to the present invention is
Operating means (37) operated by the player;
Representing the remaining period of the acceptable period during which the operation of the operation means can be accepted, and the effect display of the remaining period display (62) for notifying the decrease in the remaining period by changing the display mode as the acceptable period decreases. An operation reception period notifying means (400, 500) to be displayed on the means (6);
Detecting means (400, 500, 600) for detecting whether or not a predetermined operation has been performed on the operating means within the acceptable period;
An operation trigger effect execution means (500) for executing an operation trigger effect triggered by the detection means detecting that the predetermined operation has been performed on the operation means;
The operation trigger effect execution means can execute an operation trigger effect in which the contents of the effect progress in a stepwise manner a plurality of times within the acceptable period based on the detection result by the detection means,
The operation opportunity effect is an effect suggesting a jackpot expectation degree according to the degree of progress of the stage of the effect content,
The operation reception period notifying means
When notifying that the input from the operation means can be accepted only for a predetermined first time (N1 in FIG. 13A) and a second time different from the first time (in FIG. 14A) N2 and N3 and N4 in FIG. 19) informing that the input from the operation means can be accepted, and causing the effect display means to display the remaining period display having the same initial display mode (FIG. 17). (2), FIG. 18 (2), FIG. 26 (3), FIG. 28 (3)),
During the execution of the operation opportunity effect, the remaining period display is continuously displayed without being erased.

  ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, the game machine which can perform the novel production using the operation means which a player can operate can be provided.

Schematic front view showing an example of a pachinko gaming machine 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention The enlarged view which shows an example of the indicator 4 provided in the pachinko machine 1 of FIG. Partial plan view of the pachinko gaming machine 1 of FIG. The block diagram which shows an example of a structure of the control apparatus provided in the pachinko gaming machine 1 The flowchart which shows an example of the timer interruption process performed by the main control part 100 The flowchart which shows an example of the start port switch process in step S2 of FIG. The flowchart which shows an example of the special symbol process in step S4 of FIG. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing an example of the big prize opening process in step S6 of FIG. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing an example of the big prize opening process in step S6 of FIG. The flowchart which shows an example of the timer interruption process performed by the production control part 400 The flowchart which shows an example of the command reception process in step S11 of FIG. FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of command reception processing in step S11 of FIG. 10 and subsequent to FIG. The figure which shows an example of the alerting | reporting effect which the game machine which concerns on this embodiment can perform. The figure which shows another example of the alerting | reporting effect which the game machine which concerns on this embodiment can perform. The flowchart which shows an example of the control processing performed by the image sound control part 500 at the time of execution of the alerting | reporting effect shown to FIG. The flowchart which shows an example of the control processing performed by the image sound control part 500 at the time of execution of the notification effect shown in FIGS. Screen transition diagram showing an example of the notification effect shown in FIG. Screen transition diagram showing an example of the notification effect shown in FIG. The figure which shows another example of the alerting | reporting effect which the game machine which concerns on this embodiment can perform. The flowchart which shows an example of the control processing performed by the image sound control part 500 at the time of execution of the alerting | reporting effect shown to Fig.19 (a). 19 is a flowchart showing an example of a control process performed by the image sound control unit 500 when the notification effect shown in FIG. The flowchart which shows an example of the control processing performed by the image sound control part 500 at the time of execution of the notification effect shown in FIG. The flowchart which shows an example of the control processing performed by the image sound control part 500 at the time of execution of the alerting | reporting effect shown in FIG.19 (b). 19 is a flowchart showing an example of control processing performed by the image sound control unit 500 when the notification effect shown in FIG. FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing an example of control processing performed by the image sound control unit 500 when the notification effect shown in FIG. Screen transition diagram showing an example of the notification effect shown in FIG. FIG. 27 is a screen transition diagram showing an example of the notification effect shown in FIG. Screen transition diagram showing an example of the notification effect shown in FIG. FIG. 29 is a screen transition diagram showing an example of the notification effect shown in FIG.

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

[Schematic configuration of pachinko gaming machine 1]
Hereinafter, a schematic configuration of the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 1 is a schematic front view showing an example of a gaming machine 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is an enlarged view showing an example of the display 4 provided in the gaming machine 1. FIG. 3 is a partial plan view of the gaming machine 1.

  In FIG. 1, a gaming machine 1 is a pachinko gaming machine configured to pay out a winning ball when a gaming ball launched by a player's operation wins a prize, for example. This gaming machine 1 includes a game board 2 on which game balls are launched, and a frame member 5 surrounding the game board 2. The frame member 5 is configured to be openable and closable with respect to the main part of the gaming machine 1 around a hinge provided on the shaft support side. And the lock part 43 is provided in the predetermined position (for example, edge part on the opposite side to a shaft support side) which becomes the front side of the frame member 5, and the frame member 5 is unlocked by unlocking the lock part 43. Can be opened.

  A game area 20 for playing a game with a game ball is formed on the front surface of the game board 2. In the gaming area 20, a rail member (from which a game ball launched from below (the launching device 211; see FIG. 4) rises along the main surface of the game board 2 and forms a path toward the upper position of the gaming area 20 ( (Not shown) and a guide member (not shown) for guiding the raised game ball to the right side of the game area 20.

  In addition, the game board 2 is provided with an image display unit 6 that displays images for various effects at positions that are easily visible to the player. The image display unit 6 notifies the player of the result of the special symbol lottery (big hit lottery), for example, by displaying a decorative symbol according to the progress of the game by the player, the appearance of a character, the appearance of an item, etc. Or a reserved image showing the number of times the special symbol lottery is held. The image display unit 6 is configured by a liquid crystal display device, an EL (Electro Luminescence) display device, or the like, but any other display device may be used. Furthermore, a movable accessory 7 and a board lamp 8 used for various effects are provided on the front surface of the game board 2. The movable accessory 7 is configured to be movable with respect to the game board 2, and produces an effect by performing a predetermined operation in accordance with the progress of the game or in accordance with the player's operation. The board lamp 8 emits light according to the progress of the game, thereby performing various effects by light.

  In the game area 20, a game nail and a windmill (both not shown) that change the falling direction of the game ball are arranged. Further, in the game area 20, various bonuses related to winning and lottery are arranged at predetermined positions. In FIG. 1, the first start port 21, the second start port 22, the gate 25, the big winning port 23, and the normal winning port 24 are arranged on the game board 2 as an example of various prizes related to winning and lottery. It is installed. In addition, the game area 20 is provided with a discharge port 26 through which game balls that have not been won in any of the game areas of the game balls launched into the game area 20 are discharged out of the game area 20. .

  The first start port 21 and the second start port 22 are awarded when a game ball enters, respectively, and a special symbol lottery (big hit lottery) is started. The first start port 21 operates a predetermined special electric accessory (large winning port 23) and / or a predetermined special symbol display (first special symbol display 4a described later). It is a winning opening related to winning a game ball. Further, the second start opening 22 operates the special electric accessory and / or a predetermined special symbol display device (second special symbol display device 4b described later), and wins related to winning a game ball. The mouth. When the game ball passes through the gate 25, the normal symbol lottery (the open / close lottery of the electric tulip 27 described below) starts. The lottery is not started even if a game ball wins the normal winning opening 24.

  The 2nd starting port 22 is provided in the lower part of the 1st starting port 21, and is equipped with the electric tulip 27 in the vicinity of the entrance of a game ball as an example of a normal electric accessory. The electric tulip 27 has a pair of wings imitating tulip flowers, and the pair of wings opens and closes left and right by driving an electric tulip opening / closing unit 112 (for example, an electric solenoid) described later. When the pair of blade portions are closed, the electric tulip 27 is in a closed state in which the game ball does not enter the second start port 22 because the opening width guided to the entrance of the second start port 22 is extremely narrow. On the other hand, the electric tulip 27 is in an open state in which the game ball can easily enter the second starting port 22 because the opening width guided to the inlet of the second starting port 22 increases when the pair of wings open to the left and right. . When the electric tulip 27 passes through the gate 25 and the normal symbol lottery is won, the pair of blades opens for a specified time (for example, 0.10 seconds) and opens and closes for a specified number of times (for example, once). To do.

  The big winning opening 23 is located at the lower center of the second starting opening 22 and is opened according to the result of the special symbol lottery. The big prize opening 23 is normally in a closed state so that no game balls can enter, but depending on the result of the special symbol lottery, it protrudes from the main surface of the game board 2 and is in an open state. The game ball is easy to enter. For example, the special winning opening 23 repeats a round that is in an open state until a predetermined condition (for example, 29.5 seconds elapses or a winning of 10 game balls) is satisfied a predetermined number of times (for example, 15 times).

  Further, on the lower right side of the game board 2, a display 4 for displaying the results of the special symbol lottery and the normal symbol lottery described above and the number of reserved items is arranged. Details of the display 4 will be described later.

  Here, the payout of prize balls will be described. When a game ball enters (wins) the first start port 21, the second start port 22, the big winning port 23, and the normal winning port 24, a predetermined number per game ball is determined according to the place where the game ball has won. The prize ball is paid out. For example, when one game ball is won at the first start port 21 and the second start port 22, three prize balls are awarded, and when one game ball is won at the big prize port 23, thirteen prize balls are given to the normal prize slot 24. When one game ball is won, ten prize balls are paid out. Even if it is detected that the game ball has passed through the gate 25, there is no payout of the prize ball in conjunction with it.

  The frame member 5 on the front surface of the gaming machine 1 is provided with a handle 31, a lever 32, a stop button 33, a take-out button 34, a speaker 35, a frame lamp 36, an effect button 37, an effect key 38, a dish 39, and the like. Yes.

  When the player touches the handle 31 and performs an operation to rotate the lever 32 clockwise, the launching device 211 (100 per minute) with a hitting force according to the operation angle (for example, 100 per minute). 4) electrically fires the game ball. The tray 39 (see FIG. 3) is provided so as to protrude in front of the gaming machine 1 and temporarily stores game balls supplied to the launching device 211. In addition, the above-described prize balls are paid out to the plate 39. Then, the game balls stored in the tray 39 are supplied to the launching device 211 one by one by a supply device (not shown) at a timing linked with the operation by the player's lever 32.

  The stop button 33 is provided on the lower side surface of the handle 31, and even when the player touches the handle 31 and rotates the lever 32 in the clockwise direction, the game ball is released by being pressed by the player. Is temporarily stopped. The take-out button 34 is provided on the front surface in the vicinity of the position where the tray 39 is provided, and when the player presses it, the game balls accumulated in the tray 39 are dropped into a box (not shown).

  The speaker 35 and the frame lamp 36 respectively notify the gaming state and situation of the gaming machine 1 and perform various effects. The speaker 35 performs various effects using music, voice, and sound effects. In addition, the frame lamp 36 performs various effects by light depending on a pattern by lighting / flashing or a difference in emission color.

  Next, the display 4 provided in the gaming machine 1 will be described with reference to FIG. In FIG. 2, the display 4 includes a first special symbol display 4a, a second special symbol display 4b, a first special symbol hold indicator 4c, a second special symbol hold indicator 4d, a normal symbol indicator 4e, and a normal symbol indicator 4e. A symbol hold display 4f and a game status display 4g are provided.

  The first special symbol display 4a is displayed with the display symbol varying corresponding to the winning of the game ball at the first starting port 21. For example, the first special symbol display 4a is composed of a 7-segment display device, and when a game ball is won at the first starting port 21, the special symbol is displayed in a variable manner, and then the lottery result is displayed. Further, the second special symbol display 4b is displayed with the display symbols varying corresponding to the winning of the game ball at the second starting port 22. For example, the second special symbol display 4b is similarly composed of a 7-segment display device, and when a game ball wins at the second starting port 22, the special symbol is displayed in a variable manner and then stopped and the lottery result is displayed. To do. In the normal symbol display 4e, the display symbol is changed and displayed in response to the game ball passing through the gate 25. For example, the normal symbol display 4e is constituted by an LED display device, and when a game ball passes through the gate 25, the normal symbol is variably displayed and then stopped and displayed.

  The first special symbol hold indicator 4c displays the number of times that the special symbol lottery is held when a game ball wins at the first start port 21. The second special symbol hold indicator 4d displays the number of times that the special symbol lottery is held when the game ball wins at the second start port 22. The normal symbol hold display 4f displays the number of times the normal symbol lottery is held. For example, the first special symbol hold indicator 4c, the second special symbol hold indicator 4d, and the normal symbol hold indicator 4f are each composed of LED display devices arranged in a row, and the number of times of hold is displayed according to the lighting mode. The

  The game state display 4g displays the game state (normal state, short time state, etc.) when the gaming machine 1 is turned on.

  Next, an input device provided in the gaming machine 1 will be described with reference to FIG. In FIG. 3, the gaming machine 1 is provided with an effect button 37 and an effect key 38 as an example of an input device.

  The effect button 37 and the effect key 38 are provided for the player to input the effect. The effect button 37 is provided on the side of the upper surface of the tray 39 protruding forward of the gaming machine 1. The production key 38 has a center key and four direction keys arranged in a substantially cross shape, and is provided on the upper side of the plate 39 adjacent to the production button 37. The effect button 37 and the effect key 38 are each pressed by the player to perform a predetermined effect. For example, the player can enjoy a predetermined effect by pressing the effect button 37 at a predetermined timing. Further, the player can select one of a plurality of images displayed on the image display unit 6 by operating the four direction keys of the effect key 38. Further, the player can input the selected image as information by operating the center key of the effect key 38.

  In addition, on the back side of the gaming machine 1, a ball tank for storing game balls for payout and a payout device (payout drive unit 311) for paying out the game balls to the tray 39 are provided, and various substrates are attached. ing. For example, a main board, a sub board, and the like are disposed on the rear surface of the game board 2. Specifically, a main control board on which a main control unit 100 (see FIG. 4) that performs internal lottery and determination of winning is configured is disposed on the main board. The sub-board includes a firing control board 200 (see FIG. 4) configured to control a launching device 211 that launches a game ball to the upper part of the game area 20, and a payout control unit 300 that controls the payout of a prize ball. A payout control board configured with an effect control board configured with an effect control section 400 for overall control of effects, an image control board configured with an image acoustic control section 500 for controlling effects with images and sounds, and various types The lamp control board etc. in which the lamp control part 600 which controls the effect by the lamp (frame lamp 36, panel lamp 8) and the movable accessory 7 are arranged. In addition, on the rear surface of the gaming board 2, the power source of the gaming machine 1 is switched on / off, and 24V (volt) AC power supplied to the gaming machine 1 is converted into DC power of various voltages. A switching power supply is provided for outputting the direct current power to the various substrates described above.

[Configuration of control device of pachinko gaming machine 1]
Next, with reference to FIG. 4, a control device that performs operation control and signal processing in the gaming machine 1 will be described. FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the control device provided in the gaming machine 1.

  4, the control device of the gaming machine 1 includes a main control unit 100, a launch control unit 200, a payout control unit 300, an effect control unit 400, an image sound control unit 500, a lamp control unit 600, and the like.

  The main control unit 100 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 101, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 102, and a RAM (Random Access Memory) 103. The CPU 101 performs arithmetic processing when performing various controls related to the number of payout prize balls, such as internal lottery and determination of winning. The ROM 102 stores programs executed by the CPU 101 and various data. The RAM 103 is used as a working memory for the CPU 101. Hereinafter, main functions of the main control unit 100 will be described.

  The main control unit 100 performs a special symbol lottery (big hit lottery) when a game ball wins at the first starting port 21 or the second starting port 22, and effects control is performed on determination result data indicating whether or not the special symbol lottery is won. Send to part 400.

  The main control unit 100 controls the opening time when the blade portion of the electric tulip 27 is opened, the number of times the blade portion is opened and closed, and the opening / closing time interval at which the blade portion is opened and closed. Further, the main control unit 100 executes the special symbol lottery execution suspension number when the game ball wins the first start port 21, the special symbol lottery execution suspension number when the game ball wins the second start port 22, In addition, the number of execution suspensions of the normal symbol lottery when the game ball passes through the gate 25 is managed, and data related to the number of suspensions is sent to the effect control unit 400.

  The main control unit 100 controls the opening / closing operation of the special winning opening 23 according to the result of the special symbol lottery. For example, the main controller 100 repeats a predetermined number of rounds (for example, 29.5 seconds have passed or 10 game balls have been won) in which the big winning opening 23 projects and inclines and opens. Control to repeat only 15 times). Further, the main control unit 100 controls the opening / closing time interval at which the special winning opening 23 opens and closes.

  The main control unit 100 changes the game state in accordance with the progress of the game, and according to the progress of the game, the winning probability of the special symbol lottery, the execution interval of the special symbol lottery (the special symbol is variably displayed on the display 4) In other words, it may be said that it is a time to stop display), and the opening / closing operation of the electric tulip 27 is changed.

  When a game ball wins the first start port 21, the second start port 22, the big winning port 23, and the normal winning port 24, the main control unit 100 determines a predetermined amount per game ball according to the place where the game ball has won. The payout control unit 300 is instructed to pay out a number of prize balls. Even if the main control unit 100 detects that the game ball has passed through the gate 25, the main control unit 100 does not instruct the payout control unit 300 to pay out the prize ball in conjunction therewith. When the payout control unit 300 pays out a prize ball according to an instruction from the main control unit 100, information on the number of prize balls paid out from the payout control unit 300 is sent to the main control unit 100. Then, the main control unit 100 manages the number of paid-out prize balls based on the information acquired from the payout control unit 300.

  In order to realize the above-described functions, the main control unit 100 includes a first start port switch 111a, a second start port switch 111b, an electric tulip opening / closing unit 112, a gate switch 113, a big prize opening switch 114, a big prize opening opening / closing. 115, normal winning opening switch 116, display 4 (first special symbol display 4a, second special symbol display 4b, first special symbol hold indicator 4c, second special symbol hold indicator 4d, normal symbol display 4e, a normal symbol hold display 4f, and a game status display 4g) are connected.

  The first start port switch 111 a detects that a game ball has won the first start port 21 and sends a detection signal to the main control unit 100. The second start port switch 111 b detects that a game ball has won the second start port 22 and sends a detection signal to the main control unit 100. The electric tulip opening / closing unit 112 opens and closes the pair of blade portions of the electric tulip 27 in accordance with a control signal sent from the main control unit 100. The gate switch 113 detects that a game ball has passed through the gate 25 and sends a detection signal to the main control unit 100. The big prize opening switch 114 detects that the game ball has won the big prize opening 23 and sends a detection signal to the main control unit 100. The special prize opening / closing unit 115 opens and closes the special prize opening 23 in accordance with a control signal sent from the main control unit 100. The normal winning port switch 116 detects that a game ball has won the normal winning port 24 and sends a detection signal to the main control unit 100.

  In addition, the main control unit 100 displays the result of a special symbol lottery started by winning a game ball at the first starting port 21 (hereinafter sometimes referred to as a first special symbol lottery) on the first special symbol display 4a. indicate. The main control unit 100 displays on the second special symbol display 4b the result of the special symbol lottery started by the winning of the game ball to the second starting port 22 (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the second special symbol lottery). . The main control unit 100 displays the number of times the first special symbol lottery is on hold on the first special symbol hold display 4c. The main control unit 100 displays the number of holdings for which the second special symbol lottery is held on the second special symbol holding display 4d. The main control unit 100 displays the result of the normal symbol lottery started by passing the game ball to the gate 25 on the normal symbol display 4e. The main control unit 100 displays the number of times of holding the normal symbol lottery on the normal symbol hold display 4f. Further, the main control unit 100 displays the gaming state at that time on the gaming state display 4g when the gaming machine 1 is turned on.

  The launch control unit 200 includes a CPU 201, a ROM 202, and a RAM 203. The CPU 201 performs arithmetic processing when performing various controls related to the launching device 211. The ROM 202 stores programs executed by the CPU 201 and various data. The RAM 203 is used as a working memory for the CPU 201.

  When the lever 32 is in the neutral position, the lever 32 is in a firing stop state without outputting a signal. When the player is rotated clockwise by the player, the lever 32 outputs a signal corresponding to the rotation angle to the firing control unit 200 as a hitting ball firing command signal. The launch control unit 200 controls the launch operation of the launch device 211 based on the hit ball launch command signal. For example, the launch control unit 200 controls the operation of the launch device 211 so that the speed at which the game ball is launched increases as the rotation angle of the lever 32 increases. When the signal indicating that the stop button 33 is pressed is output, the launch control unit 200 stops the operation of the launch device 211 firing the game ball.

  The payout control unit 300 includes a CPU 301, a ROM 302, and a RAM 303. The CPU 301 performs a calculation process when controlling the payout of the payout ball. The ROM 302 stores programs executed by the CPU 301 and various data. A RAM 303 is used as a working memory for the CPU 301.

  The payout control unit 300 controls payout of the payout ball based on the command sent from the main control unit 100. Specifically, the payout control unit 300 acquires from the main control unit 100 a command for paying out a predetermined number of prize balls according to the place where the game ball has won. Then, the payout driving unit 311 is controlled so as to pay out the number of prize balls specified by the command. Here, the payout drive unit 311 is configured by a drive motor or the like that sends out a game ball from a game ball storage unit (ball tank).

  The effect control unit 400 includes a CPU 401, a ROM 402, a RAM 403, and an RTC (real time clock) 404. In addition, the effect control unit 400 is connected to the effect key 38 and acquires operation data output from the effect key 38 in response to an operation pressed by the player. The CPU 401 performs a calculation process when controlling the effect. The ROM 402 stores programs executed by the CPU 401 and various data. The RAM 403 is used as a working memory for the CPU 401. The RTC 404 measures the current date and time.

  The production control unit 400 sets production contents based on data indicating the special symbol lottery result and the like sent from the main control unit 100.

  The image sound control unit 500 includes a CPU 501, a ROM 502, and a RAM 503. The CPU 501 performs arithmetic processing when controlling the image and sound expressing the content of the effect. The ROM 502 stores programs executed by the CPU 501 and various data. The RAM 503 is used as a working memory for the CPU 501.

  The image sound control unit 500 controls the image displayed on the image display unit 6 and the sound output from the speaker 35 based on the command sent from the effect control unit 400. Specifically, in the ROM 502 of the image sound control unit 500, a decorative symbol image for notifying a special symbol lottery result, an image of a character or item for displaying a notice effect or a pre-read notice effect, a special symbol lottery The image data for displaying the hold image indicating that is held and various background images, cut-in images, moving images, and the like on the image display unit 6 are stored. In addition, the ROM 502 of the image sound control unit 500 outputs music from the speaker 35 in synchronization with the image displayed on the image display unit 6, or music, audio, etc. output from the speaker 35 independently of the displayed image. Are stored. The CPU 501 of the image sound control unit 500 selects and reads out the data corresponding to the command sent from the effect control unit 400 from the image data and sound data stored in the ROM 502. The CPU 501 performs image processing for background image display, decorative symbol image display, character / item display, and the like using the read image data, and performs various processes corresponding to commands sent from the effect control unit 400. Perform production display. Then, the CPU 501 displays the image indicated by the image processed image data on the image display unit 6. In addition, the CPU 501 performs sound processing using the read sound data, and outputs the sound indicated by the sound processing sound data from the speaker 35.

  The lamp control unit 600 includes a CPU 601, a ROM 602, and a RAM 603. The CPU 601 performs arithmetic processing when controlling the light emission of the panel lamp 8 and the frame lamp 36 and the operation of the movable accessory 7. The ROM 602 stores programs executed by the CPU 601 and various data. The RAM 603 is used as a working memory for the CPU 601.

  The lamp control unit 600 controls the lighting / flashing of the panel lamp 8 and the frame lamp 36 and the emission color based on the command sent from the effect control unit 400. The lamp controller 600 controls the operation of the movable accessory 7 based on the command sent from the effect controller 400. Specifically, the ROM 602 of the lamp control unit 600 stores lighting / flashing pattern data and emission color pattern data (emission pattern data) for the panel lamp 8 and the frame lamp 36 according to the production contents set by the production control unit 400. ) Is stored. The CPU 601 selects and reads out the light emission pattern data stored in the ROM 602 corresponding to the command sent from the effect control unit 400. Then, the CPU 601 controls the light emission of the panel lamp 8 and the frame lamp 36 based on the read light emission pattern data. In addition, the ROM 602 stores operation pattern data of the movable accessory 7 corresponding to the effect contents set by the effect control unit 400. The CPU 601 selects and reads out the operation pattern data stored in the ROM 602 corresponding to the command sent from the effect control unit 400. Then, the CPU 601 controls the operation of the movable accessory 7 based on the read operation pattern data.

  The lamp control unit 600 is connected to an effect button 37 operated by the player. When the lamp control unit 600 detects a signal output from the effect button 37 when the player operates the effect button 37, the lamp control unit 600 notifies the effect control unit 400 of the operation state of the effect button 37.

  In addition, when receiving the notification of the operation state of the effect button 37 from the lamp control unit 600, the effect control unit 400 notifies the image sound control unit 500 of the operation state of the effect button 37. Here, the operation state of the effect button notified from the lamp control unit 600 to the effect control unit 400 and the operation state of the effect button notified from the effect control unit 400 to the image sound control unit 500 are an effect button. This is information including the presence or absence of pressing 37, whether or not the presentation button is continuously pressed, and is typically transmitted as a signal in a predetermined format. When the effect button 37 is operated by the player, the operation state of the effect button 37 detected by the lamp control unit 600 is transmitted to the image sound control unit 500 via the effect control unit 400. The image sound control unit 500 determines whether or not the operation of the effect button 37 that satisfies a predetermined condition is performed based on the operation state of the effect button 37 notified from the effect control unit 400, and the determination result The contents of the production can be changed according to the situation. The point that the image sound control unit 500 changes the content of the effect based on the operation state of the effect button 37 will be described later.

[Main operation of main control unit]
FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an example of timer interrupt processing performed by the main control unit 100. The timer interrupt process performed in the main control unit 100 will be described below with reference to FIG. The main control unit 100 repeatedly executes a series of processes shown in FIG. 5 at regular intervals (for example, 4 milliseconds) during a normal operation except for special cases such as when the power is turned on or when the power is turned off. Note that processing performed by the main control unit 100 described based on the flowcharts of FIG. 5 and the subsequent steps is executed based on a program stored in the ROM 102.

  First, in step S1, the CPU 101 of the main control unit 100 executes a random number update process for updating various random numbers such as a jackpot random number, a design random number, a reach random number, and a variation pattern random number. Here, the big hit random number is a random number for determining whether or not a special symbol lottery is won or lost (that is, performing a special symbol lottery). The symbol random number is a random number for determining a type of jackpot (for example, a promiscuous jackpot or a jackpot with a short time) when a special symbol lottery is won. The jackpot random number and the design random number are used in the process of step S407 in FIG. The reach random number is a random number for determining whether or not a reach effect is performed when a special symbol lottery is lost. The variation pattern random number is a random number for determining the variation time of the special symbol. Here, the variation time of the special symbol is equal to the execution time of the notification effect (variation effect) executed in synchronization with the variation of the special symbol. The reach random number and the fluctuation pattern random number are used in the process of step S408 in FIG. 7 described later. In the random number update process of step S1, the big hit random number, the design random number, the reach random number, the variation pattern random number, etc. are each added and updated by one. That is, it is counted up. Each random number is acquired in the start port switch (SW) process in step S2 and the gate switch (SW) process in step S3, and is used in the special symbol process in step S4 and the normal symbol process in step S5 described later. Note that the counter that performs the processing of step S1 is typically a loop counter, and returns to 0 again after reaching the maximum value of the set random number (for example, 299 for the big hit random number).

  Next, in step S2, the CPU 101 monitors the state of the first start port switch 111a and the second start port switch 111b, and when one of the switches is turned on (the first start port switch 111a or the second start port switch 111b). When a game ball detection signal is output from the mouth switch 111b), a start opening switch that performs processing related to the number of holdings U1 of the first special symbol lottery, the number of holdings U2 of the second special symbol lottery, and processing for obtaining various random numbers. Execute the process. Details of the start port switch process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  Next, in step S3, the CPU 101 monitors the state of the gate switch 113, and when the gate switch 113 is turned on (when a game ball detection signal is output from the gate switch 113), the normal symbol lottery is suspended. If it is determined whether the number is less than the upper limit (for example, 4) and it is determined that the number of holds is less than the upper limit, a gate switch process is performed to obtain a random number used in the normal symbol process in step S5 described later. To do.

  Next, in step S4, the CPU 101 executes the first special symbol lottery or the second special symbol lottery, and after the special symbols are variably displayed on the first special symbol display 4a or the second special symbol display 4b, these are displayed. A special symbol process for displaying a stop symbol indicating the lottery result of this or transmitting various commands to the effect control unit 400 is executed. This special symbol process will be described later in detail with reference to FIG.

  Next, in step S5, the CPU 101 executes a normal symbol process for determining whether or not the random number acquired in the gate switch process in step S3 matches a predetermined hit random number. Then, the CPU 101 stops and displays the normal symbol indicating the determination result after the normal symbol is variably displayed on the normal symbol display 4e. Specifically, the CPU 101 sets the normal symbol change time to be stopped and displayed after the normal symbol is variably displayed to 10 seconds in the normal state and to 0.5 seconds in the electric support state. In addition, the CPU 101 sets the probability that the normal symbol displayed on the normal symbol display 4e becomes a predetermined winning symbol (that is, the winning probability of the normal symbol lottery) to a low probability (1/10) in the normal state, In the electric support state, it is raised with a high probability (10/10). In the electric support state, the number of reserved special symbol lots is larger than that in the normal state, and the variation time of the special symbol is shortened. Therefore, the electric support state may be referred to as a short-time state.

  Next, in step S6, when it is determined that the special symbol lottery is won in the special symbol processing in step S4 (when the big win is made), the CPU 101 controls the big prize opening / closing unit 115 to control the big prize opening 23. The special winning opening process is executed to cause the player to perform a predetermined opening / closing operation or to transmit various commands relating to the so-called big hit game effect to the effect control unit 400. By this processing, the big hit game (special game) is progressed, and the player can acquire a large amount of prize balls. This special winning opening process will be described later in detail with reference to FIGS.

  Next, in step S7, the CPU 101 performs electric driving when the normal symbol displayed on the normal symbol display 4e by the normal symbol processing in step S5 is a predetermined winning symbol (that is, when the normal symbol lottery is won). An electric tulip process for operating the tulip 27 is executed. At that time, the CPU 101 controls the opening of the electric tulip 27 for a very short period (once for 0.10 seconds) in the normal state, and controls the opening of the electric tulip 27 for a long period (three times for 2.00 seconds) in the electric support state. To do. In addition, when the electric tulip 27 is controlled to be in the open state, a game ball can be won at the second start port 22, and when the game ball wins at the second start port 22, a second special symbol lottery is performed. Will be.

  Here, the gaming state of the gaming machine 1 in the present embodiment will be described. The gaming state of the gaming machine 1 includes at least a normal state, an electric support state, a probability change state, and a big hit gaming state. The normal state is a basic normal game state, the winning probability of the special symbol lottery is set to a normal low probability (1/300: high probability is 1/30), and the electric tulip 27 is in an open state. It is a gaming state set to be difficult to become. In the electric support state, the execution time of the normal symbol lottery (the open lottery of the electric tulip 27) is typically shortened compared to the normal state, the winning probability of the normal symbol lottery increases, and the normal symbol lottery is won. In this case, the electric tulip 27 is controlled to be opened for a long time, so that the electric tulip 27 is frequently opened for a long time and the game ball is frequently won at the second starting port 22. That is, the electric support state is a gaming state that is set such that the electric tulip 27 is more likely to be in the open state than in the normal state. The probability variation state is a gaming state in which the winning probability of the special symbol lottery is set to a high probability (1/30: low probability is 1/300). Note that there are cases where the electric support state and the probability change state coexist, and this coexisting state is referred to as an electric support probability change state (or time-short probability change state). The big hit game state is a game state when a big hit game (special game) in which a special symbol lottery is won (hit a big win) and the big prize opening 23 is opened is being executed.

  Next, in step S <b> 8, the CPU 101 executes prize ball processing for managing the number of winning game balls and controlling the payout of prize balls according to the prize.

  Next, in step S9, the CPU 101 executes various commands and effects set in the RAM 103 by the start opening switch process in step S2, the special symbol process in step S4, the big winning opening process in step S6, the prize ball process in step S8, and the like. Output processing for outputting information necessary for the production control unit 400 or the payout control unit 300 is executed.

[Start-up switch processing]
FIG. 6 is an example of a detailed flowchart of the start port switch process in step S2 of FIG. Hereinafter, the start port switch process in step S2 of FIG. 5 will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, in step S201, the CPU 101 of the main control unit 100 receives a game ball in the first start port 21 based on the presence / absence of a detection signal from the first start port switch 111a, and the first start port switch 111a is turned on. It is determined whether or not. If the determination in step S201 is YES, the process proceeds to step S202. If the determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S207.

  In step S 202, the CPU 101 reads the upper limit value Umax 1 (“4” in the present embodiment) of the first special symbol lottery number from the ROM 102, and the first special symbol lottery number U 1 stored in the RAM 103 is the upper limit value. It is determined whether or not the value is less than Umax1. If the determination in step S202 is YES, the process proceeds to step S203, and if this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S207.

  In step S <b> 203, the CPU 101 updates the value of the holding number U <b> 1 stored in the RAM 103 to a value obtained by adding one. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S204.

  In step S204, the CPU 101 acquires a set of random numbers (big hit random number, symbol random number, reach random number, and variation pattern random number) used for the first special symbol lottery and the like, and each set of random numbers acquired (game information) Are stored in the RAM 103 in chronological order. It should be noted that each time the value of the first special symbol lottery holding number U1 is decremented by 1 in the process of step S406 of FIG. 7 described later, the random number set stored in the RAM 103 is one set in order from the earliest storage time. Deleted one by one. From this, for example, when the value of the number of holdings U1 of the first special symbol lottery is “3”, the last three random number sets acquired by the process of the last three steps S204 are stored in the RAM 103 in time series order. It will be stored. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S205.

  In step S205, the CPU 101 performs a preliminary determination process. Specifically, the CPU 101 acquires a random number set such as a big hit random number obtained in the latest processing of step S204 and stored in the RAM 103 (that is, a random number set such as a big hit random number for the first special symbol lottery stored most recently. ) And whether or not the result of the first special symbol lottery using the jackpot random number is a jackpot based on whether or not the jackpot random number or the like matches a predetermined value or the like stored in the ROM 102 and reach effect Whether or not to execute is determined in advance. That is, the determination necessary for executing the pre-reading notice effect and the hold change notice effect is determined in advance prior to the processing of steps S407 and S408 in FIG. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S206.

  In step S <b> 206, the CPU 101 sets a first hold number increase command for notifying that the hold number of the first special symbol lottery has increased by 1 in the RAM 103. Here, the first pending number increase command includes information (hereinafter referred to as “preliminary determination information”) indicating the result of the preliminary determination performed in the process of step S205. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S207.

  In step S207, the CPU 101 determines whether or not a game ball has won the second start port 22 and the second start port switch 111b is turned on based on the presence / absence of a detection signal from the second start port switch 111b. To do. If the determination in step S207 is YES, the process proceeds to step S208. If this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S3 (gate switch process) in FIG.

  In step S <b> 208, the CPU 101 reads the upper limit value Umax <b> 2 of the second special symbol lottery holding number from the ROM 102 (“4” in the present embodiment), and the second special symbol lottery holding number U <b> 2 stored in the RAM 103 is the upper limit. It is determined whether or not the value is less than Umax2. If the determination in step S208 is YES, the process proceeds to step S209. If the determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S3 (gate switch process) in FIG.

  In step S209, the CPU 101 updates the value of the holding number U2 stored in the RAM 103 to a value obtained by adding 1. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S210.

  In step S210, the CPU 101 obtains a set of random numbers (big hit random number, symbol random number, reach random number, and variation pattern random number) used for the second special symbol lottery, etc. They are stored in the RAM 103 in order. Each time the value of the second special symbol lottery holding number U2 is decremented by 1 in the process of step S404 of FIG. 7 to be described later, the random number set stored in the RAM 103 is one set in order from the earlier storage time Deleted one by one. For this reason, for example, when the value of the holding number U2 of the second special symbol lottery is “3”, the last three random number sets acquired by the processing of the last three steps S210 are stored in the RAM 103 in time series order. It will be stored. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S211.

  In step S211, the CPU 101 performs a preliminary determination process. Specifically, the CPU 101 acquires a random number set such as a big hit random number acquired in the process of the latest step S210 and stored in the RAM 103 (that is, a random number set such as a big hit random number for the second special symbol lottery stored most recently. ) And whether or not the result of the second special symbol lottery using the jackpot random number is a jackpot based on whether or not the jackpot random number or the like matches a predetermined value or the like stored in the ROM 102 and reach effect Whether or not to execute is determined in advance. That is, the determination necessary for executing the pre-reading notice effect and the hold change notice effect is determined in advance prior to the processing of steps S407 and S408 in FIG. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S212.

  In step S <b> 212, the CPU 101 sets a second hold number increase command for notifying that the hold number of the second special symbol lottery has increased by 1 in the RAM 103. Here, the second pending number increase command includes information (preliminary determination information) indicating the result of the preliminary determination performed in the process of step S211. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S3 (gate switch process) in FIG. The first hold number increase command set in step S206 and the second hold number increase command set in step S212 are transmitted to the effect control unit 400 by the output process in step S9 of FIG.

[Special symbol processing]
FIG. 7 is an example of a detailed flowchart of the special symbol process in step S4 of FIG. Below, the special symbol process in step S4 of FIG. 5 is demonstrated using FIG.

  First, in step S401, the CPU 101 of the main control unit 100 determines that the current state of the gaming machine 1 is a big hit game (a big hit game state) based on information stored in the RAM 103 (typically information by a flag). It is determined whether or not. That is, it is determined whether or not the big hit game (special game) that is executed when the special symbol lottery is won. If the determination in step S401 is YES, the process proceeds to step S5 (normal symbol process) in FIG. 5, and if this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S402.

  In step S402, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the special symbol change display is being performed by the first special symbol display 4a or the second special symbol display 4b. If the determination in step S402 is yes, the process proceeds to step S411. If the determination is no, the process proceeds to step S403.

  In step S403, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the holding number U2 stored in the RAM 103 is 1 or more (that is, whether or not the second special symbol lottery is held). If the determination in step S403 is YES, the process proceeds to step S404. If the determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S405.

  In step S <b> 404, the CPU 101 updates the hold number U <b> 2 stored in the RAM 103 to a value obtained by subtracting one. At this time, the CPU 101 reads out the random number set stored in the RAM 103 and acquired in step S210 of FIG. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S407.

  On the other hand, in step S405, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the holding number U1 stored in the RAM 103 is 1 or more (that is, whether or not the first special symbol lottery is held). If the determination in step S405 is YES, the process proceeds to step S406. If this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S415 assuming that there is no special symbol lottery to be executed.

  In step S <b> 406, the CPU 101 updates the hold number U <b> 1 stored in the RAM 103 to a value obtained by subtracting one. At that time, the CPU 101 reads out the random number set stored in the RAM 103 acquired in step S204 of FIG. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S407.

  The second special symbol lottery is executed in preference to the first special symbol lottery by the processing of steps S403 to S406 described above.

  In step S407, the CPU 101 executes a big hit determination process for determining whether the special symbol lottery is a big win or a loss. Specifically, when executing the process of step S407 following the process of step S404, the CPU 101 matches the jackpot random number read from the RAM 103 in the process of step S404 with the jackpot winning value stored in the ROM 102. Whether the result of the second special symbol lottery is a big hit or a loss is determined based on whether or not to do so. On the other hand, when executing the process of step S407 following the process of step S406, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the jackpot random number read from the RAM 103 in the process of step S406 matches the jackpot winning value stored in the ROM 102. Based on this, it is determined whether the result of the first special symbol lottery is a big hit or a loss. When the result of the special symbol lottery is determined to be lost, the CPU 101 sets a lost symbol indicating that the special symbol lottery has been lost in the RAM 103 as a special symbol stop symbol in the setting information. On the other hand, when the CPU 101 determines that the result of the special symbol lottery is a big hit, which of the predetermined values stored in the ROM 102 matches the symbol random number read from the RAM 103 together with the big hit random number used for this determination? Based on this, the type of the big hit this time (for example, the probable big hit or the short hit big hit) is determined. Then, the CPU 101 sets, in the RAM 103, information on the jackpot symbol representing the jackpot and the type of jackpot as information on the stop symbol of the special symbol in the setting information. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S408.

  In step S408, the CPU 101 executes variation pattern selection processing. Specifically, when the CPU 101 determines that it is a big hit in the big hit determination process of step S407, the fluctuation pattern random number read from the RAM 103 together with the big hit random number used in this big hit determination process is a predetermined value (stored in the ROM 102). A variation pattern (a variation time of a special symbol, which can also be said to be a notification effect execution time) is determined based on which one of the predetermined values for determining a variation pattern at the time of occurrence of a big hit. In this embodiment, as an example, when it is determined that the game is a big hit, a reach effect is always performed.

  On the other hand, if the CPU 101 determines that a loss has occurred in the jackpot determination process in step S407, the reach random number read from the RAM 103 together with the jackpot random number used in the jackpot determination process is a predetermined value stored in the ROM 102 (reach at the time of a loss) It is determined whether or not the reach effect is to be executed based on which one of the predetermined values for execution determination matches. If the CPU 101 determines to execute the reach effect, the fluctuation pattern random number read from the RAM 103 together with the jackpot random number used in the current jackpot determination process is stored in the ROM 102 (the reach effect is executed when lost). The variation pattern (variation time) is determined based on which one of the predetermined values for determining the variation pattern in the case of matching. On the other hand, if the CPU 101 determines not to execute the reach effect, the CPU 101 determines the variation pattern (variation time) based on the holding numbers U1 and U2 stored in the RAM 103.

  Information on the variation pattern determined as described above and information indicating whether or not to execute reach production are set in the RAM 103 as setting information. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S409.

  In step S409, the CPU 101 generates a notification effect start command including the setting information set by the jackpot determination process in step S407 and the setting information set by the variation pattern selection process in step S408, and sets the notification effect start command in the RAM 103. Here, the notification effect start command is a command for instructing the effect control unit 400 to start the notification effect by the image display unit 6, the speaker 35, and the like. The setting information included in the notification effect start command includes information indicating which of the first special symbol lottery and the second special symbol lottery has been executed. This notification effect start command is transmitted to the effect control unit 400 by the output process in step S9 of FIG. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S410.

  In step S410, the CPU 101 changes the special symbol by the first special symbol display 4a or the second special symbol display 4b based on the setting information included in the notification effect start command set in the process of step S409. Start display. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S411.

  In step S411, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the special symbol variation time indicated by the variation pattern set in the variation pattern selection process in step S408 has elapsed since the start of the special symbol variation display in step S410. If the determination in step S411 is YES, the process proceeds to step S412. If the determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S5 (ordinary symbol process) in FIG.

  In step S <b> 412, the CPU 101 sets a notification effect stop command instructing the end of the notification effect by the image display unit 6 or the like in the RAM 103. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S413. Note that the notification effect stop command set in step S412 is transmitted to the effect control unit 400 by the output process in step S9 of FIG.

  In step S413, the CPU 101 ends the special symbol variation display by the first special symbol display 4a or the second special symbol display 4b started in the process of step S410. When the CPU 101 ends the special symbol variation display, the CPU 101 displays the stop symbol and displays the lottery result. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S414.

  In step S414, the CPU 101 executes a stop process. Specifically, if the CPU 101 determines that the big hit is determined in step S407, the information stored in the RAM 103 (typically, information based on a flag) is in a big hit game (a big hit gaming state). And an opening command for instructing the start of the big hit game effect is set in the RAM 103. This opening command is transmitted to the effect control unit 400 by the output process of step S9 in FIG. 5, and the big hit game effect is started. In addition, the CPU 101 switches the gaming state according to the number of times that the special symbol fluctuates and is stopped and displayed by the processing of steps S410 and S413 (that is, the number of rotations) (that is, the winning probability setting of the special symbol lottery or the electric A game state notification command indicating the game state after switching is set in the RAM 103 by switching the opening setting of the tulip 27. This gaming state notification command is transmitted to the effect control unit 400 by the output process of step S9 in FIG. 5, and the effect can be switched (for example, switching from the effect mode in the short time state to the effect mode in the normal state). Thereafter, the processing moves to step S5 (normal symbol processing) in FIG.

  In step S415, the CPU 101 determines whether or not to shift to a customer waiting effect (demonstration effect). For example, the CPU 101 waits for a predetermined time (for example, 10 seconds) after the special symbol change display by the first special symbol display 4a (or the second special symbol display 4b) is finished in a state where the special symbol lottery is not suspended. When the time has elapsed, it is determined that the game by the player has been interrupted or ended, and it is determined to shift to the customer waiting effect. The customer waiting effect is, for example, an effect of displaying video related to content (animation, story, etc.) that is the subject of the gaming machine 1 on the image display unit 6, or a predetermined effect (for example, executed during the game) This is an effect of displaying a part of the reach effect) on the image display unit 6. If the determination in step S415 is yes, the process proceeds to step S416. If the determination is no, the process proceeds to step S417.

  In step S <b> 416, the CPU 101 sets a customer waiting effect start command for instructing the start of the customer waiting effect in the RAM 103. This customer waiting effect start command is transmitted to the effect control unit 400 by the output process of step S9 in FIG. 5, and the customer waiting effect is started. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S417.

  In step S417, the CPU 101 determines whether or not to end the customer waiting effect. For example, the CPU 101 receives a prize at the first start port 21 (or the second start port 22) during execution of the customer waiting effect and uses the first special symbol display 4a (or the second special symbol display 4b). When the variation display of the special symbol is started, it is determined that the game by the player has been resumed (or started), and the customer waiting effect is determined to end. If the determination in step S417 is YES, the process proceeds to step S418, and if this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S5 (normal symbol process) in FIG.

  In step S <b> 418, the CPU 101 sets a customer waiting effect end command for instructing the end of the customer waiting effect in the RAM 103. This customer waiting effect end command is transmitted to the effect control unit 400 by the output process of step S9 in FIG. 5, and the customer waiting effect is ended. Thereafter, the processing moves to step S5 (normal symbol processing) in FIG.

[Large winning prize processing]
8 and 9 are examples of detailed flowcharts of the special winning a prize opening process in step S6 of FIG. Hereinafter, the special winning opening process in step S6 of FIG. 5 will be described with reference to FIGS.

  First, in step S601, the CPU 101 of the main control unit 100 determines whether or not the state of the gaming machine 1 is a big hit game based on information stored in the RAM 103 (typically, information based on a flag). judge. If the determination in step S601 is YES, the process proceeds to step S602. If the determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S7 (electric tulip process) in FIG.

  In step S <b> 602, the CPU 101 determines based on the information stored in the RAM 103 whether or not the state of the gaming machine 1 is a jackpot game opening effect. If the determination in step S602 is YES, the process proceeds to step S603, and if this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S609.

  In step S <b> 603, the CPU 101 determines whether or not a set opening time that defines the execution time of the opening effect has elapsed. If the determination in step S603 is YES, the process proceeds to step S604. If the determination is NO, the opening effect has not ended, and the process proceeds to step S7 (electric tulip process) in FIG.

  In step S <b> 604, the CPU 101 sets the total number of rounds Rmax for the jackpot game and the operation pattern of the jackpot 23 for the jackpot game, and sets the setting information in the RAM 103. Specifically, the CPU 101 sets the number of rounds included in the jackpot game (Rmax: “15” in this embodiment) and the operation pattern of the jackpot 23 during the jackpot game, and sets the setting information in the RAM 103. To do. By the processing of step S604, the total number of rounds Rmax of the big hit game, the interval time between rounds in the big hit game, the set ending time that is the time for performing the ending effect at the end of the big hit game, and the like are set. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S605.

  In step S <b> 605, the CPU 101 resets the winning number C of game balls to the big winning opening 23 stored in the RAM 103 to “0”. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S606.

  In step S <b> 606, the CPU 101 updates the round number R of the big hit game stored in the RAM 103 to a value obtained by adding one. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S607.

  In step S <b> 607, the CPU 101 controls the special winning opening / closing unit 115 to start the opening control of the special winning opening 23. By this processing, a big hit game round (round game) is started and the opening operation (one opening operation) of the big winning opening 23 is started. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S608.

  In step S <b> 608, the CPU 101 sets a round start notification command for notifying a round start (round game start) in the RAM 103. This round start notification command is transmitted to the effect control unit 400 by the output process of step S9 in FIG. 5, and the round effect is started. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S614.

  In step S609, the CPU 101 determines based on the information stored in the RAM 103 whether or not the gaming machine 1 is in the big hit game interval. If the determination in step S609 is yes, the process proceeds to step S610. If the determination is no, the process proceeds to step S611.

  In step S610, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the set interval time during the jackpot game set in the process of step S604 has elapsed from the time when the big prize opening 23 is closed at the end of the previous round during the jackpot game. To do. If the determination in step S610 is YES, it is time to start the next round in the jackpot game, so the process moves to step S605. If this determination is NO, the next round in the jackpot game is started. Since the timing is not reached, the process proceeds to step S7 (electric tulip process) in FIG.

  In step S <b> 611, the CPU 101 determines whether the state of the gaming machine 1 is executing the jackpot game ending effect based on the information stored in the RAM 103. If the determination in step S611 is YES, the process proceeds to step S621 in FIG. 9, and if this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S612.

  In step S612, the CPU 101 determines that the state of the gaming machine 1 is in the big hit game round, and based on the presence / absence of a detection signal from the big prize opening switch 114, whether the big prize opening switch 114 is turned on. Determine whether or not. If the determination in step S612 is YES, the process moves to step S613. If the determination is NO, the process moves to step S614.

  In step S <b> 613, the CPU 101 determines that a winning of game balls to the big winning opening 23 has been detected, and updates the winning number C of game balls stored in the RAM 103 to a value obtained by adding one. By executing the process of step S613 every time the big prize opening switch 114 is turned ON, the total number of game balls (winning number C) won in the big prize opening 23 during one round is accumulated and stored in the RAM 103. Go. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S614.

  In step S614, the CPU 101 determines whether or not a specified opening control time (29.5 seconds in the present embodiment) has elapsed since the opening control of the special winning opening 23 was started in the process of step S607. If the determination in step S614 is yes, the process moves to step S616. If the determination is no, the process moves to step S615.

  In step S615, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the number C of winning game balls in the current round has reached an upper limit number of gaming balls Cmax (“10” in the present embodiment) that defines the timing at which the big winning opening 23 is closed. Determine. If the determination in step S615 is YES, the process proceeds to step S616, and if this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S7 (electric tulip process) in FIG.

  In step S616, the CPU 101 controls the special winning opening / closing unit 115 to end the opening control of the special winning opening 23 started in step S607. In this way, the CPU 101 counts the total number of game balls (winning number C) detected by the big prize opening switch 114 until 29.5 seconds elapse after the big prize opening 23 is opened in each round during the big hit game. ) Has reached 10 (Cmax), or 29.5 seconds have passed without winning 10 game balls since opening the grand prize opening 23, and the big prize opening 23 is closed. . Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S617.

  In step S617, the CPU 101 sets a round end notification command for notifying the end of round (round game end) in the RAM 103. This round start notification command is transmitted to the effect control unit 400 by the output process of step S9 in FIG. 5, and the round effect is ended. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S618.

  In step S618, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the current round number R stored in the RAM 103 has reached the maximum round number Rmax of the big hit game set in the process of step S604. If the determination in step S618 is YES, the process proceeds to step S619 in FIG. 9, and if this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S7 (electric tulip process) in FIG.

  In step S619 in FIG. 9, the CPU 101 resets the number of rounds R stored in the RAM 103 to “0”. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S620.

  In step S620, the CPU 101 sets an ending command for instructing the effect control unit 400 to execute the ending effect of the big hit game in the RAM 103. The ending command set in this process is transmitted to the effect control unit 400 in step S9 (output process) in FIG. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S621.

  In step S621, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the set ending time set in the process of step S604 in FIG. 8 has elapsed since the ending command was set in the RAM 103 in step S620. If the determination in step S621 is YES, the process proceeds to step S622. If the determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S7 (electric tulip process) in FIG.

  In step S622, the CPU 101 ends the jackpot game being executed. Specifically, the CPU 101 cancels the setting information (typically, information based on a flag) indicating that a big hit game stored in the RAM 103 is in progress, and ends the big hit game. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S623.

  In step S623, the CPU 101 executes a game state setting process. Specifically, when the jackpot game is ended in step S622, the CPU 101 switches the gaming state according to the type of the jackpot of this time (that is, switches the winning probability setting of the special symbol lottery and the opening setting of the electric tulip 27). ). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S62.

  In step S624, the CPU 101 sets a gaming state notification command indicating the gaming state after switching by the processing in step S623 in the RAM 103. This gaming state notification command is transmitted to the effect control unit 400 by the output process of step S9 in FIG. 5, and the effect can be switched (for example, switching from the big hit game effect to the effect of the short-time probability changing state). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S7 (electric tulip process) in FIG.

[Production control processing by production control unit]
FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of timer interrupt processing performed by the effect control unit 400. Below, with reference to FIG. 10, the timer interruption process performed in the production | presentation control part 400 is demonstrated. The effect control unit 400 repeatedly executes a series of processes shown in FIG. 10 at regular intervals (for example, 4 milliseconds) during a normal operation except for special cases such as when the power is turned on or when the power is turned off. In addition, the process performed in the production | presentation control part 400 demonstrated based on the flowchart after FIG. 10 is performed based on the program memorize | stored in ROM402.

  First, in step S11, the CPU 401 of the effect control unit 400 receives various commands output from the main control unit 100 by the output process of step S9 in FIG. 5, sets the effect contents according to the received command, Command reception processing for setting various commands in the RAM 403 for instructing the image sound control unit 500 and the lamp control unit 600 to execute the effect of the set effect content is executed. This command reception process will be described in detail later with reference to FIGS.

  Next, in step S <b> 12, the CPU 401 sets the effect content according to the operation input signal output from the effect key 38 by the player's operation, and the effect of the set content is set as the image sound control unit 500 and the lamp control unit. An effect input control process for setting various commands for instructing execution to 600 in the RAM 403 is executed.

  Next, in step S13, the CPU 401 executes output processing for outputting various commands set in the RAM 403 in the processing of steps S11 and S12 to the image sound control unit 500 and the lamp control unit 600. By this process, various effects determined to be executed in the processes of steps S11 and S12 are executed by the image display unit 6, the speaker 35, the panel lamp 8, and the like by the execution control of the image sound control unit 500 and the lamp control unit 600. It will be.

[Command reception processing]
FIG. 11 is an example of a detailed flowchart of the command reception process in step S11 of FIG. Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 11, the command reception process in step S11 of FIG. 10 will be described.

  First, in step S111, the CPU 401 of the effect control unit 400 determines whether a hold increase command (first hold number increase command or second hold number increase command) is received from the main control unit 100 (FIG. 6). (See steps S206 and S212). If the determination in step S111 is YES, the process proceeds to step S112. If the determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S114.

  In step S112, the CPU 401 instructs the image sound control unit 500 in response to the hold increase command received in the process of step S111, and causes the image display unit 6 to additionally display a hold image indicating the special symbol lottery hold. Hold image display processing is performed. Note that an instruction to the image sound control unit 500 is performed by setting a command in the RAM 403. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S113.

  In step S113, the CPU 401 performs a prefetch notice effect setting process. Here, the pre-reading notice effect performed in the present embodiment is based on the prior determination result performed in step S205 or S211 in FIG. 6, before the special determination lottery is performed and the special symbol lottery is performed. It is an effect that suggests the possibility that the hold related to will be a big hit. Whenever the CPU 401 receives the hold increase command in step S111, the CPU 401 refers to the pre-determination information included in the hold increase command and determines whether or not to execute the pre-read notice effect by lottery or the like. When the CPU 401 determines to execute the prefetching notice effect, the CPU 401 sets the contents of the prefetching notice effect by lottery or the like from a plurality of patterns of prefetching notice effects prepared in advance. This pre-reading notice effect can be performed across a plurality of symbol variations.

  More specifically, in the present embodiment, the CPU 401 of the effect control unit 400 can perform a predetermined suggestive effect based on prior determination of the hold data. Further, when the CPU 401 determines that the predetermined suggestion effect is to be performed, in order to suggest the possibility that the predetermined suggestion effect is executed across the special symbol variation of the predetermined number of times equal to or less than the holding number at the time of determination, A pre-reading notice effect (development suggestion effect) can be executed on the image display unit 6. The predetermined suggestive effects that can be executed by the effect control unit 400 include an effect suggesting a jackpot or a latent jackpot, a zone entry effect, etc., in addition to a suggestion effect suggesting a jackpot (probable jackpot, normal jackpot). May be.

  In step S114, the CPU 401 determines whether or not the notification effect start command set in step S409 of FIG. 7 has been received. If the determination in step S114 is YES, the process proceeds to step S115, and if this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S116.

  In step S115, the CPU 401 instructs the image sound control unit 500 in accordance with the notification effect start command received in the process of step S114, and performs notification effect execution processing for starting the notification effect by the image display unit 6 or the like. More specifically, the CPU 401 draws lots from among a plurality of effect patterns prepared in advance based on information on the variation pattern set in the notification effect start command and information indicating whether or not to execute the reach effect. To select the effect pattern to be executed. In the present embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 13, 14, and 19 to be described later, an effect using the effect button 37 can be executed once or a plurality of times during one special symbol variation display. The effect patterns shown in FIGS. 13, 14 and 19 are also included in the plurality of effect patterns prepared in advance, and the effect using the effect button 37 can also be selected in this step. The instruction to the image sound control unit 500 or the like is performed by setting a notification effect execution command in the RAM 403. This notification effect execution command branches the effect contents depending on the combination and execution order of the effect contents executed during the notification effect, the execution time of each effect content, the presence / absence of the operation of the effect button 37, and the presence / absence of the operation of the effect button 37. Information that specifies the contents of the effect that is the branching destination when the operation is performed, the period during which the operation input of the effect button 37 can be accepted (P0 described later), the detection period (P1 to P4 described later), and the like.

  In step S116, the CPU 401 determines whether or not the notification effect stop command set in the process of step S412 in FIG. 7 has been received. If the determination in step S116 is YES, the process proceeds to step S117, and if this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S118.

  In step S117, the CPU 401 instructs the image sound control unit 500 or the like to end the notification effect started to be executed in the process of step S115, and finally stops all the decorative symbols that have been variably displayed (confirmed). Stop the display) and inform the effect of the special symbol lottery. The instruction to the image sound control unit 500 or the like is performed by setting a notification effect end command in the RAM 403. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S118.

  In step S118, the CPU 401 determines whether or not the gaming state notification command set in the stopping process in step S414 in FIG. 7 or the process in step S624 in FIG. 9 has been received. If the determination in step S118 is yes, the process proceeds to step S119. If the determination is no, the process proceeds to step S120 in FIG.

  In step S119, the CPU 401 performs an effect state setting process. Specifically, the CPU 401 instructs the image sound control unit 500 or the like to set the notification effect to be executed in the effect state corresponding to the game state indicated by the game state notification command received in step S118. For example, if the gaming state indicated by the gaming state notification command received in step S118 is a short-time probability variation state, the CPU 401 instructs the image sound control unit 500 or the like to set the background image of the notification effect to red, and step S118. When the gaming state indicated by the gaming state notification command received in is a normal state, the image sound control unit 500 or the like is instructed to set the background image of the notification effect to blue. Note that an instruction to the image sound control unit 500 or the like is performed by setting a command in the RAM 403. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S120.

  In step S120, the CPU 401 determines whether or not the opening command set in the stopping process in step S414 of FIG. 7 has been received. If the determination in step S120 is yes, the process proceeds to step S121. If the determination is no, the process proceeds to step S122.

  In step S121, the CPU 401 instructs the image sound control unit 500 or the like to start the opening effect of the big hit game effect. That is, the big hit game effect is started. Here, the opening effect is an effect for notifying the start of the big hit game, and is typically an image effect that prompts the player to launch a game ball toward the big prize opening 23. Note that an instruction to the image sound control unit 500 or the like is performed by setting a command in the RAM 403. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S122.

  In step S122, the CPU 401 determines whether or not the round start notification command set in the process of step S608 in FIG. 8 has been received. If the determination in step S122 is YES, the process proceeds to step S123, and if this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S124.

  In step S123, the CPU 401 instructs the image sound control unit 500 or the like to start a round effect of the big hit game effect. Here, the round effect is an effect executed during a round game of the big hit game, for example, an effect by an image or the like in which the main character is fighting an enemy character. Note that an instruction to the image sound control unit 500 or the like is performed by setting a command in the RAM 403. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S124.

  In step S124, the CPU 401 determines whether or not the round end notification command set in the process of step S617 in FIG. 8 has been received. If the determination in step S124 is YES, the process proceeds to step S125, and if this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S126.

  In step S125, the CPU 401 instructs the image sound control unit 500 or the like to end the round effect of the big hit game effect. Note that an instruction to the image sound control unit 500 or the like is performed by setting a command in the RAM 403. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S126.

  In step S126, the CPU 401 determines whether or not the ending command set in the process of step S620 in FIG. 9 has been received. If the determination in step S126 is YES, the process proceeds to step S127, and if this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S128.

  In step S127, the CPU 401 instructs the image sound control unit 500 and the like to start the ending effect of the big hit game effect. That is, the jackpot game effect is ended. Here, the ending effect is an effect of notifying the end of the big hit game, and is typically an effect of displaying the mark of the manufacturer of the gaming machine 1. Note that an instruction to the image sound control unit 500 or the like is performed by setting a command in the RAM 403. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S128.

  In step S128, the CPU 401 determines whether or not the customer waiting effect start command set in the process of step S416 in FIG. 7 has been received. If the determination in step S128 is YES, the process proceeds to step S129, and if this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S130.

  In step S129, the CPU 401 instructs the image sound control unit 500 and the like to start a customer waiting effect. As already described, the customer waiting effect is, for example, an effect in which a video related to the content (animation, story, etc.) that is the subject of the gaming machine 1 is displayed on the image display unit 6, for example, a predetermined execution executed during the game This is an effect of displaying a part of the effect (for example, reach effect) on the image display unit 6. Note that an instruction to the image sound control unit 500 or the like is performed by setting a command in the RAM 403. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S130.

  In step S130, the CPU 401 determines whether or not the customer waiting effect end command set in the process of step S418 in FIG. 7 has been received. If the determination in step S130 is yes, the process proceeds to step S131. If the determination is no, the process proceeds to step S12 in FIG.

  In step S131, the CPU 401 instructs the image sound control unit 500 or the like to end the customer waiting effect started in the process of step S129. Note that an instruction to the image sound control unit 500 or the like is performed by setting a command in the RAM 403. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S12 in FIG.

  Note that the decorative symbol change time (that is, the CPU 401 of the effect control unit 400 starts the notification effect in step S115 of FIG. 11 (starts the decorative symbol change display), and then ends the notification effect in step S117 of FIG. 11). (Time until the decorative symbol is fixedly displayed) is the special symbol variation time (that is, after the CPU 101 of the main control unit 100 starts displaying the special symbol variation in step S410 in FIG. 7, the step in FIG. In S413, the time until the change of the special symbol is finished and the lottery result is displayed by the stop symbol is matched. Further, at the end of the change of the special symbol, the lottery result displayed by the special symbol matches the notification content of the decorative symbol that is confirmed. For example, when the special symbol stops at the end of the change of the special symbol, “4 rounds short time (electric support) no big hit” is displayed, the image display unit 6 also displays “4 rounds short time (electric support)”. A decorative symbol for notifying "None jackpot" is fixedly displayed. Alternatively, when the special symbol stops displaying “16-round probability variation jackpot” at the end of the variation of the special symbol, the decorative symbol for informing the “16-round probability variation jackpot” is also confirmed on the image display unit 6. Is displayed.

[Details of production using production buttons]
In the gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment, a predetermined effect that is executed in response to an operation input of the effect button 37 that satisfies a predetermined condition by the player is displayed as a special symbol during one-time variable display (one time It can be executed once or a plurality of times during the notification effect). In addition, the gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment displays a remaining time display on the image display unit 6 indicating that the operation input of the effect button 37 can be accepted during the period in which the operation input from the effect button 37 can be accepted. To do. At this time, the gaming machine 1 according to the present invention displays the remaining time in the same initial display mode when the operation input reception period is the first time and when the operation time is the second time different from the first time. I do. In the following description, an effect that is executed when a player operates an effect button that satisfies a predetermined condition is referred to as an “effect button operation opportunity effect”.

[Example 1 using a production button]
First, referring to FIGS. 13 to 18, as an effect example 1 using the effect button 37, an effect example in which an effect button operation trigger effect is executed once during an operation receivable period of one effect button 37. Two types of production examples with different lengths of periods during which the operation input can be accepted for the production button 37 will be described.

  FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of a notification effect that can be executed by the gaming machine according to the present embodiment. More specifically, FIG. 13 (a) is a time chart from the start of change to the end of change of the special symbol, and FIGS. 13 (b) to 13 (e) show the remaining time display in the period P0 of accepting the effect button operation. It is a figure which shows a time change.

  In the subsequent time charts, the lower case “t” represents a predetermined time in the effect pattern, and the upper case “T” represents a time determined in accordance with the timing of operation input of the effect button 37 by the player. .

  In the example shown in FIG. 13A, after a special symbol change (notification effect) is started at time t0, an effect button operation receivable period P0 of N1 seconds is provided from time t1 to time t2 after a predetermined time has elapsed. . At the start of the production button operation receivable period P0 (time t1), as shown in FIG. 13B, a message 61 that prompts the operation input of the production button 37 and the remaining operation input of the production button 37 can be received. A gauge 62 for displaying time is displayed on the image display unit 6. The gauge 62 notifies that the remaining time in which the operation input of the effect button 37 can be received has decreased by changing the display mode with the passage of time. In the example of FIG. 13, as shown in FIGS. 13B to 13E, the length of the gauge 62 (more specifically, the length of the bar that can be variably displayed in the gauge 62) with the passage of time. By shortening, it represents a decrease in the remaining time of the production button operation acceptance period P0. The display mode of the gauge 62 changes so that the length becomes zero N1 seconds after the start of the production button operation acceptance period P0. Therefore, when the length of the gauge 62 is drawn on the image display unit 6 with X pixels, in the example of FIG. 13, the length of the bar in the gauge 62 can be reduced at a rate of X / N1 pixels per second. That's fine.

  The gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment does not wait for the end of the effect button operation acceptance period P0 when the operation input of the effect button 37 that satisfies the predetermined condition is detected within the effect button operation acceptance period P0. A predetermined effect button operation trigger effect can be executed when an operation input of the effect button 37 satisfying the predetermined condition is detected. For example, when an operation input of the effect button 37 that satisfies a predetermined condition (for example, one press of the effect button 37) is detected at time T1 within the effect button operation receivable period P0, at time T2 after time T1. The production button operation opportunity production can be executed. Details of this example will be described later with reference to FIG.

  In addition, at time t3 after the end of the production button operation acceptance period P0, the lottery result is notified by temporarily stopping the decorative design on the image display unit 6, and at time t4, the decorative design is displayed on the image display unit 6. Is finally stopped, the lottery result is confirmed and notified, and the special symbol variation (notification effect) ends.

  FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating an example of a notification effect that can be executed by the gaming machine according to the present embodiment. More specifically, FIG. 14 (a) is a time chart from the start of change to the end of change of the special symbol, and FIGS. 14 (b) to 14 (f) show the remaining time display during the production button operation receivable period P0. It is a figure which shows the time change of. In addition, in order to specify the time position on the time chart of Fig.14 (a), the same code | symbol (t0-t4, T1 and T2) as used in Fig.13 (a) is used for convenience of explanation. However, the time specified by each code is a value determined according to the selected effect pattern and / or the operation timing of the effect button 37 by the player, and is the same code in FIGS. The specified times are not necessarily the same and may be different.

  Also in the example shown in FIG. 14A, the special symbol fluctuation is started at time t0, and the effect button operation receivable period P0 is provided from time t1 to time t2 after a predetermined time elapses. However, in the example of FIG. 14, the length of the production button operation receivable period P0 is N2 seconds (where N2> N1), unlike the example of FIG. At the start of the production button operation receivable period P0 (time t1), as shown in FIG. 14B, a message 61 that prompts the operation input of the production button 37 and the remaining operation input of the production button 37 can be accepted. A gauge 62 for displaying time is displayed on the image display unit 6. The gauge 62 shown in FIG. 14B is displayed in the same initial display form as the gauge 62 shown in FIG. Here, the same initial display mode means that the image of the gauge 62 that is initially displayed at the start of the production button operation receivable period P0 is the same. Thereafter, as shown in FIGS. 13C to 13F, the length of the gauge 62 is shortened with the passage of time, thereby informing the decrease in the effect button operation receivable period P0. The display mode of the gauge 62 changes so that the length becomes zero N2 seconds after the start of the production button operation acceptance period P0. However, since the effect button operation receivable period P0 (N2 seconds) in the effect example in FIG. 14 is longer than the effect button operation receivable period P0 (N1 seconds) in the effect example in FIG. 13, the length of the gauge 62 is Compared to 13 examples, it decreases slowly. 14, when the initial display mode of the gauge 62 is the same as that in FIG. 13, that is, when the length of the gauge 62 is drawn with X pixels on the image display unit 6, The length of the bar may be reduced at a rate of X / N2 pixels per second.

  Specifically, when the display of the gauge 62 in the effect example shown in FIGS. 13 and 14 is compared, for example, after n1 seconds have elapsed from the start of the effect button operation acceptance period P0, in the example of FIG. While the length is reduced to almost half of that at the time of initial display, in the example of FIG. 14C, the length of the gauge 62 is approximately 3/4 at the time of initial display. Also, after the elapse of n2 seconds from the start of the production button operation receivable period P0, the length of the gauge 62 is very small in the example of FIG. 13D, whereas the example of FIG. Then, the length of the gauge 62 is almost ½ of that at the time of initial display. In the example of FIG. 14, the length of the gauge 62 shown in FIG. 14 (e) is approximately the same as the time of n2 seconds in the example of FIG. 13 when N3 seconds have elapsed from the start of the production button operation acceptance period P0. Until it becomes shorter.

  In the gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment, when an operation input of the effect button 37 satisfying a predetermined condition (for example, one press of the effect button 37) is detected at time T1 within the effect button operation receivable period P0. At time T2, an effect button operation opportunity effect can be executed. Details of this example will be described later with reference to FIG.

  In addition, at time t3 after the end of the production button operation acceptance period P0, the lottery result is notified by temporarily stopping the decorative design on the image display unit 6, and at time t4, the decorative design is displayed on the image display unit 6. Is finally stopped, the lottery result is confirmed and notified, and the special symbol variation (notification effect) ends.

[Control processing of production example 1]
15 and 16 are flowcharts illustrating an example of a control process performed by the image sound control unit 500 when the notification effect illustrated in FIGS. 13 and 14 is executed.

  First, in step S301, the CPU 501 of the image sound control unit 500 determines whether or not the notification effect execution command set in the notification effect start process in step S115 of FIG. 11 has been received. If the determination in step S301 is YES, the process proceeds to step S302. If the determination is NO, the process ends.

  In step S302, the CPU 501 sets a remaining time counter. The remaining time counter is a variable that retains the remaining time during which the player can accept the operation of the effect button 37, and the CPU 501 sets in advance the effect content determined by the effect control unit 400 as the initial value of the remaining time counter. The time (N1 seconds in FIG. 13A and N2 seconds in FIG. 14A) corresponding to the operation acceptance period P0 of the effect button 37 being set is set. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S303.

  In step S303, the CPU 501 calculates the change rate of the display mode of the remaining time display. For example, when the remaining time during which the effect button operation can be received is displayed by the gauge 62, the change rate of the display mode can be expressed by the number of pixels in the length direction of the gauge 62 that is changed per unit time. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S304.

  In step S <b> 304, the CPU 501 starts the decorative symbol variation display. More specifically, the CPU 501 reads the decorative symbol array stored in the ROM 502 and sequentially displays the decorative symbols included in the read decorative symbol array in the decorative symbol display area on the image display unit 6. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S305.

  In step S <b> 305, the CPU 501 determines whether or not the operation acceptable period P <b> 0 of the effect button 37 has started. The start timing of the effect button operation receivable period P0 can be determined based on whether or not the time specified in the notification effect execution command has elapsed after the start of the decorative symbol variation display. If the determination in step S155 is yes, the process proceeds to step S306. If the determination is no, the determination in step S305 is performed again after a predetermined interval.

  In step S <b> 306, the CPU 501 displays an effect button operation suggestion display for prompting the player to operate the effect button 37 and a remaining time display indicating the remaining time at which the operation input of the effect button 37 can be accepted on the image display unit 6. Display. The effect button operation suggestion display is a display that suggests to the player that the operation input of the effect button 37 is possible and / or the contents of the operation of the effect button 37 to be performed by the player. Examples of the effect button operation suggestion display include a display that prompts the user to press the effect button 37, a display that prompts the user to press the effect button 37 repeatedly, and a display that prompts the user to press and hold the effect button 37 for a long time. Instead of displaying the display prompting the operation of the effect button 37 on the image display unit 6, the CPU 501 may cause the speaker 35 to output a sound prompting the operation of the effect button 37. When the gaming machine 1 includes a sub image display unit in addition to the image display unit 6, the CPU 501 may display an effect button operation suggestion display on the sub image display unit. In addition, the remaining time display is, for example, a gauge or progress bar whose length changes over time, a number that counts down or up over time, an image whose area changes over time, etc. What is necessary is just to be able to change a display mode with progress. The CPU 501 displays a remaining time display on the image display unit 6 based on the remaining time value stored in the remaining time counter. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S307.

  In step S307, the CPU 501 starts subtraction of the remaining time counter and starts changing the display mode of the remaining time display. The CPU 501 changes the display mode of the remaining time display so that the remaining time display such as a gauge changes according to the change rate obtained in step S303. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S308.

  In step S <b> 308, the CPU 501 starts detecting the operation input of the effect button 37. More specifically, the CPU 501 determines the number of presses of the effect button 37 based on a signal indicating the operation state of the effect button 37 output from the effect control unit 400 in response to the operation of the effect button 37 by the player, Detects continuous pressing time, pressing interval, etc. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S309.

  In step S309, the CPU 501 determines whether or not an operation input of the effect button 37 that satisfies a predetermined condition is detected. Here, as an example, a specific process when the pressed state and the non-pressed state of the effect button 37 are represented by the ON state and the OFF state of the output signal from the effect control unit 400 will be described. When the predetermined condition is “single press of the effect button 37”, the CPU 501 turns on a signal indicating the operation state of the effect button 37 received from the effect control unit 400 during the effect button operation receivable period P0. By detecting whether the OFF state has been switched, it is determined whether there has been an operation of the effect button 37 that satisfies a predetermined condition. Further, when the predetermined condition is “continuous hitting of the effect button 37”, the CPU 501 turns on a signal indicating the operation state of the effect button 37 received from the effect control unit 400 during the effect button operation receivable period P0 and Whether or not the number of times OFF has been switched is greater than or equal to the specified number and / or an ON state and an OFF state of a signal representing the operation state of the effect button 37 received from the effect control unit 400 during the effect button operation receivable period P0. It can be determined that the production button 37 has been repeatedly hit by detecting whether or not the switching interval is equal to or less than the specified time. When the predetermined condition is “long press of the effect button 37”, the CPU 501 turns on a signal representing the operation state of the effect button 37 received from the effect control unit 400 during the effect button operation receivable period P0. By detecting whether or not has continued for a certain time or longer, it is possible to detect a long press of the effect button 37. If the determination in step S309 is YES, the process proceeds to step S311. If the determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S310.

  In step S310, the CPU 501 determines whether or not the effect button operation receivable period P0 has ended. If the determination in step S163 is YES, the process proceeds to step S314 in FIG. 16, and if this determination is NO, the determination in step S309 is performed again after a predetermined interval.

  In step S311, the CPU 501 stops the subtraction of the remaining time counter and stops the display mode change of the remaining time display. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S312.

  In step S <b> 312, the CPU 501 deletes the effect button operation suggestion display and the remaining time display from the image display unit 6. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S313.

  In step S313, the CPU 501 executes an effect button operation opportunity effect. The CPU 501 reads the effect contents of the effect button operation trigger effect from the ROM 502 and reproduces the read effect contents to execute the effect button operation trigger effect. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S314 in FIG.

  In step S314 of FIG. 16, the CPU 501 notifies the result of the special symbol lottery by temporarily stopping the decorative symbol on the image display unit 6. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S315.

  In step S315, the CPU 501 determines whether or not the notification effect end command set in the notification effect end process in step S117 of FIG. 11 has been received. If the determination in step S315 is YES, the process proceeds to step S316. If the determination is NO, the determination in step S315 is performed again after a predetermined interval.

  In step S166, the CPU 501 temporarily stops the decorative symbol on the image display unit 6 and then stops the decorative symbol, and confirms and notifies the result of the special symbol lottery. Thereafter, the CPU 501 ends the notification effect execution process.

[Example of screen display in Production Example 1]
FIG. 17 is a screen transition diagram during execution of the effect shown in FIG. Hereinafter, an execution example of the notification effect will be described with reference to FIGS. 17 and 13 together.

  First, in FIG. 17A, based on the notification effect execution command set by the CPU 401 of the effect control unit 400, the CPU 501 of the image sound control unit 500 starts displaying the decorative symbols in a variable manner (time t0 in FIG. 13A). It is a figure which shows the example of the screen displayed on the image display part 6 immediately after. In FIG. 17 and subsequent screen transition diagrams, a down arrow indicates that the decorative symbol is in a variable display. A small circle displayed at the bottom of the image display unit 6 represents a reserved image.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 17B, when the effect button operation receivable period P0 starts (time t1 in FIG. 13A), an image of the effect button 37 and a message 61 that prompts the user to press the effect button 37 are displayed. And a gauge 62 representing the remaining time during which the operation input of the effect button 37 can be received is displayed on the image display unit 6. After the start of the production button operation receivable period P0, while the operation input of the production button 37 satisfying the predetermined condition (in this example, one press of the production button 37) is not detected, FIGS. 17 (3) and (4). As shown, the gauge 62 decreases with time.

  Next, FIG. 17 (5) is displayed at the time when the operation input of the effect button 37 satisfying the predetermined condition is detected (time T1 in FIG. 13 (a)) before the end of the effect button operation receivable period P0. It is an example of a screen. When the operation input of the effect button 37 satisfying the predetermined condition is detected, as shown in FIG. 17 (5), the image of the effect button 37 on the image display unit 6 is an image before detection (for example, FIG. 17 (4)). ) May be used to notify that the operation input of the effect button 37 has been accepted. Thereafter, the image of the effect button 37, the message 61 that prompts the user to press the effect button 37, and the gauge 62 that represents the remaining time during which the operation input of the effect button 37 can be accepted are deleted from the image display unit 6.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 17 (6), as an effect button operation opportunity effect triggered by an operation input of the effect button 37 that satisfies a predetermined condition, for example, it is suggested that the result of the special symbol lottery may be a big hit. A message 64 is displayed (time T2 in FIG. 13A). The message “chance?” Of the message 64 shown in FIG. 17 (6) is, for example, performance contents that suggest that the possibility of jackpot is slightly higher than in normal times.

  After that, as shown in FIG. 17 (7), the result of the special symbol lottery is notified by temporarily stopping the decorative symbols on the image display unit 6 because of irregularities (time t3 in FIG. 13 (a)). After that, the decorative symbol is finally stopped on the image display unit 6 so that the result (loss) of the special symbol lottery is confirmed and notified (time t4 in FIG. 13A).

  FIG. 18 is a screen transition diagram during execution of the effect shown in FIG. Hereinafter, an execution example of the notification effect will be described with reference to FIGS. 18 and 14 together.

  First, in FIG. 18 (1), based on the notification effect execution command set by the CPU 401 of the effect control unit 400, the CPU 501 of the image sound control unit 500 starts the variable display of decorative symbols (time t0 in FIG. 14 (a)). It is a figure which shows the example of the screen displayed on the image display part 6 immediately after.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 18B, when the effect button operation receivable period P0 starts (time t1 in FIG. 14A), an image of the effect button 37 and a message 61 that prompts the user to press the effect button 37 are displayed. And a gauge 62 representing the remaining time during which the operation input of the effect button 37 can be received is displayed on the image display unit 6. 18 (3) to (5) while the operation input of the effect button 37 satisfying the predetermined condition (in this example, one press of the effect button 37) is not detected after the start of the effect button operation receivable period P0. As shown, the gauge 62 decreases with time.

  Next, FIG. 18 (6) is displayed at the time when the operation input of the effect button 37 satisfying the predetermined condition is detected (time T1 in FIG. 14 (a)) before the end of the effect button operation receivable period P0. It is an example of a screen. Also in the screen example of FIG. 18 (6), it is notified that the operation input of the effect button 37 has been accepted by changing the image of the effect button 37 on the image display unit 6. Thereafter, the image of the effect button 37, the message 61 that prompts the user to press the effect button 37, and the gauge 62 that represents the remaining time during which the operation input of the effect button 37 can be accepted are deleted from the image display unit 6.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 18 (7), for example, the color of the peripheral part of the image display unit 6 is set to a predetermined color as an effect button operation trigger effect triggered by an operation input of the effect button 37 that satisfies a predetermined condition. An effect to be changed is executed (time T2 in FIG. 14A). The jackpot reliability may be suggested by the color of the peripheral portion of the image display unit 6 that has changed.

  Then, as shown in FIG. 18 (8), the result of the special symbol lottery is notified by temporarily stopping the decorative symbols on the image display unit 6 because of irregularities (time t3 in FIG. 14 (a)). Thereafter, the decorative symbol is finally stopped on the image display unit 6, and the result of special symbol lottery (losing) is confirmed and notified (time t4 in FIG. 14A).

[Example 2 using a production button]
Next, with reference to FIGS. 19 to 29, as an effect example 2 using the effect button 37, an effect example in which an effect button operation trigger effect is executed a plurality of times during the operation input acceptance period of one effect button 37. Then, two types of effects examples in which the length of the operation input acceptance period of the effect button 37 is different will be described.

  FIG. 19 is a diagram showing an example of a notification effect that can be executed by the gaming machine according to the present embodiment, and shows the control processing performed by the image sound control unit 500 in time series during one special symbol variation display. It is a time chart. The black circles shown in the time chart of FIG. 19 represent a branch point that branches the contents of subsequent effects based on whether or not an operation input of the effect button 37 that satisfies a predetermined condition is detected.

  For convenience of explanation, the same reference numerals (t0 to t4, T1 and T2) are used for specifying the time positions on the time charts of FIGS. 19A and 19B. The time to be determined is a value determined according to the selected effect pattern and / or according to the operation timing of the effect button 37 by the player, and is identified by the same symbol in FIGS. 19 (a) and 19 (b). The time to be performed is not necessarily the same, and may be different. The same applies to the same reference numerals used in FIG. 19 and FIG. 13 or 14.

  Also in the effect example shown in FIG. 19, when the operation input of the effect button 37 that satisfies the predetermined condition is detected during the operation input receivable period P <b> 0, the effect button operation trigger effect can be executed. When the operation input of the effect button 37 satisfying the predetermined condition is detected during the operation input acceptance period P0 during the execution of the effect shown in FIG. 19, the remaining time during which the operation input of the effect button 37 can be reduced is reduced. Pause. And after execution of production button operation opportunity production, the remaining time before production button operation production production is taken over and displayed. Details will be described below.

  FIG. 19A shows an example of a notification effect that can execute a maximum of three effect button operation trigger effects during one special symbol variation display. In the example of the notification effect shown in FIG. 19, the player can input the operation of the effect button 37 up to four times, and the player satisfies a predetermined condition within each detection period of the operation input of the effect button 37. Depending on whether or not the effect button 37 is operated, any one of the five patterns A to E is executed.

  In FIG. 19A, detection periods P <b> 1 to P <b> 4 of the effect button 37 are provided within the period in which the operation of the effect button 37 can be accepted. Here, the detection period Pn is the longest period during which the operation input of the nth effect button 37 can be detected after the start of the effect button operation acceptance period P0. The starting point of the first detection period P1 is time t2 determined in advance in the effect pattern. However, the starting points of the second to fourth detection periods P2 to P4 are determined according to the timing at which the operation input of the effect button 37 by the player is detected. In this way, the starting point of the detection periods P2 to P4 is made variable in the production example of FIG. 19, when the operation input of the production button 37 satisfying the predetermined condition is detected, the production button operation trigger production is executed. This is because a configuration is adopted in which the remaining time before execution of the effect button operation detection is taken over and displayed.

<Pattern A>
First, the image sound control unit 500 starts the variable display of decorative symbols at time t0.

  Next, the image sound control unit 500 executes the first effect at time t1 when a predetermined time has elapsed from time t0. The first effect is an effect different from the decorative symbol variation display in the normal time, and is an effect suggesting that, for example, the jackpot reliability is higher than the decorative symbol variation display in the normal time.

  Next, the image sound control unit 500 displays an operation suggestion display of the effect button 37 for prompting the player to operate the effect button 37 and a remaining time display indicating a remaining time during which the operation of the effect button 37 can be accepted at time t2. Do. This remaining time display is displayed in the same initial display mode as when the effects of FIGS. 13 and 14 are executed (see FIGS. 13B and 14B and FIG. 26C described later). Examples of the operation of the effect button 37 that prompts the player at the time t2 include a single press of the effect button 37, repeated hits, and long presses. After the image sound control unit 500 performs the operation suggestion and the remaining time display of the effect button 37 at time t2, the operation input detection period P1 of the effect button 37 is from time t3 after a predetermined time has elapsed.

  Next, the image sound control unit 500 determines whether or not an operation input of the effect button 37 that satisfies a predetermined condition is made in the detection period P1. When the image sound control unit 500 detects an operation input of the effect button 37 satisfying a predetermined condition (for example, pressing of the effect button 37 once) at time T1 within the period P1 in which the effect button operation can be accepted, the image sound control unit 500 uses a gauge or the like. The display mode change of the remaining time display shown is temporarily stopped. Thereafter, the image sound control unit 500 can execute the first effect button operation trigger effect at time T2. The contents of the effect button operation opportunity effect are not particularly limited, but the jackpot reliability is given to the effect of changing the color of the background displayed on the image display unit 6 and at least a part of the image displayed on the image display unit 6. Examples include an effect of displaying the suggested color, an effect of displaying a cut-in image on the image display unit 6, an effect of displaying a specific character on the image display unit 6, an effect of changing the reserved image, and the like.

  Next, the image sound control unit 500 performs the operation suggestion of the effect button 37 and the remaining time display after the end of the first effect button operation opportunity effect (time T3). At this time, the image sound control unit 500 takes over the remaining time displayed before the execution of the first effect button operation trigger effect, that is, the remaining time at the time of the pause, and displays the change in the display mode of the remaining time display. To resume. The period from the time T3 when the image sound control unit 500 performs the operation suggestion and the remaining time display of the effect button 37 to the time t4 after the elapse of a predetermined time is the detection period P2 of the operation input of the effect button 37.

  Next, the image sound control unit 500 determines whether or not an operation input of the effect button 37 that satisfies a predetermined condition is made in the detection period P2. When the operation input of the effect button 37 satisfying the predetermined condition is detected at time T4 within the effect button operation receivable period P2, the image sound control unit 500 temporarily changes the display mode display of the remaining time display represented by a gauge or the like. Stop. Thereafter, the image sound control unit 500 can execute the second effect button operation trigger effect at time T5.

  Next, the image sound control unit 500 performs the operation suggestion of the effect button 37 and the remaining time display at time T6 after the end of the second effect button operation opportunity effect. At this time, the image sound control unit 500 takes over and displays the remaining time displayed before the execution of the second effect button operation trigger effect, that is, the remaining time at the time of pause, and changes the display mode of the remaining time display. To resume. The period from the time T6 when the image sound control unit 500 performs the operation suggestion and the remaining time display of the effect button 37 to the time t5 after the elapse of a predetermined time is the detection period P3 of the operation input of the effect button 37.

  Next, the image sound control unit 500 determines whether or not an operation input of the effect button 37 satisfying a predetermined condition is made in the detection period P3. When the operation input of the effect button 37 satisfying the predetermined condition is detected at time T7 within the effect button operation receivable period P3, the image sound control unit 500 temporarily changes the display mode change of the remaining time display represented by a gauge or the like. Stop. Thereafter, the image sound control unit 500 can execute the third effect button operation trigger effect at time T8.

  Next, after the end of the third effect button operation opportunity effect, the image sound control unit 500 performs the operation suggestion of the effect button 37 and the remaining time display at time T9. At this time, the image sound control unit 500 takes over and displays the remaining time displayed before the execution of the third effect button operation trigger effect, that is, the remaining time at the time of pause, and changes the display mode of the remaining time display. To resume. The period from the time T9 when the image sound control unit 500 performs the operation suggestion and the remaining time display of the effect button 37 to the time t6 after the elapse of a predetermined time is the detection period P4 of the operation input of the effect button 37.

  Next, after the end of the effect button operation receivable period P0 (detection period P4), the image sound control unit 500 determines whether or not an operation input of the effect button 37 satisfying the predetermined condition is performed within the detection period P4 at time t6. Determine. When the operation input of the effect button 37 satisfying the predetermined condition is detected in the detection period P4, the image sound control unit 500 ends one effect and starts the second effect at time t7. The second effect is different from the first effect. For example, an effect suggesting that the player has operated the effect button 37 successfully, a reach effect, and a super hit with higher reliability than a normal reach effect. Reach production.

  Thereafter, the image sound control unit 500 produces a notice of the result of the special symbol lottery by aligning and temporarily stopping the same decorative design on the image display unit 6 at time t8. The notification effect is ended by stopping.

<Pattern B>
In the notification effect pattern B shown in FIG. 19A, the effect button 37 that satisfies the predetermined condition is operated in each of the detection periods P1 to P3 of the effect button 37, but the effect that satisfies the predetermined condition during the detection period P4. It is an example of the notification effect performed when the operation of the button 37 is not performed. However, in this embodiment, when the operation of the effect button 37 is not performed during the detection period P4 of the effect button 37, or when the operation of the effect button 37 is performed but the operation does not satisfy the predetermined condition. However, the same effects as those performed in the pattern A are executed at times t7 to t9 after the end of the detection period P4. Note that the control process performed by the image sound control unit 500 at times t0 to t6 is the same as that for the pattern A, and thus the description thereof is omitted.

<Pattern C>
In the notification effect pattern C shown in FIG. 19A, the effect button 37 that satisfies the predetermined condition is operated in each of the detection periods P1 and P2 of the effect button 37, but the effect that satisfies the predetermined condition during the detection period P3. It is an example of the notification effect performed when the operation of the button 37 is not performed. In the pattern C, the image sound control unit 500 continuously executes the first effect without detecting the operation input of the third effect button operation trigger and the fourth effect button 37, and from time t7 to t9. The same effect as that performed in pattern A is executed. Note that the control process performed by the image sound control unit 500 at times t0 to t5 is the same as that for the pattern A, and thus the description thereof is omitted.

<Pattern D>
In the notification effect pattern D shown in FIG. 19 (a), the operation of the effect button 37 satisfying the predetermined condition is performed during the detection period P1 of the effect button 37, but the operation of the effect button 37 satisfying the predetermined condition during the detection period P2. It is an example of the alerting | reporting effect performed when is not made. In the pattern D, the image sound control unit 500 continuously executes the first effect without detecting the second effect button operation trigger effect and the third and subsequent operation buttons 37, and the times t7 to t9. The same effect as that performed in the pattern A is executed. Note that the control process performed by the image sound control unit 500 at times t0 to t4 is the same as that for the pattern B, and thus the description thereof is omitted.

<Pattern E>
A notification effect pattern E shown in FIG. 19A is an example of a notification effect that is executed when an operation of the effect button 37 that satisfies a predetermined condition is not performed during the detection period P1 of the effect button 37. In the pattern E, the image sound control unit 500 continuously executes the first effect without detecting the first effect button operation trigger effect and the operation input of the effect button 37 for the second and subsequent times, and time t7 to t9. The same effect as that performed in the pattern B is executed. Note that the control process performed by the image sound control unit 500 at the times t0 to t3 is the same as the pattern B, and thus the description thereof is omitted.

  The example of the notification effect shown in FIG. 19B is an effect suggesting a jackpot reliability lower than the notification effect shown in FIG. 19A, and typically the result of the special symbol lottery is a loss. Sometimes executed. In the example of the notification effect shown in FIG. 19B, the upper limit number of times that the effect button operation trigger effect can be executed (the effect button operation can be detected) is the effect button operation trigger effect in the notification effect shown in FIG. Is less than the upper limit number of times (the button operation can be detected), and the execution time of the notification effect (the variation time of the special symbol) is set shorter than that of the notification effect of FIG.

  FIG. 19B shows an example of a notification effect capable of executing a maximum of two effect button operation trigger effects (maximum three operation button 37 operation inputs) during one special symbol variation display. Show. In the example of the notification effect shown in FIG. 19B, there are four types according to whether or not the player has operated the effect button 37 that satisfies a predetermined condition during the period in which the operation input of the effect button 37 can be detected. An effect of any one of the patterns F to I is executed.

<Pattern F>
In the notification effect pattern F shown in FIG. 19 (b), the operation of the effect button 37 that satisfies the predetermined condition is performed in each of the detection periods P1 to P3 of the effect button 37 after the start of the first effect. This is an example of terminating the notification effect without developing. In the pattern F, the same control processing as that of the pattern A is executed at the time t0 to t5, and at the time t8, the image sound control unit 500 temporarily stops the decorative symbols on the image display unit 6 in an irregular manner. After the fact that it has been lost, the notification effect is terminated by stopping the decoration symbol at time t9.

<Pattern GI>
The notification effect patterns G, H, and I shown in FIG. 19B are notifications that are executed when the operation of the effect button 37 that satisfies a predetermined condition is not performed in the detection periods P3, P2, and P1 of the effect button 37, respectively. It is an example of production. In the pattern G, the image sound control unit 500 executes the same control processing as that of the pattern F at times t0 to t5. In the pattern H, the image sound control unit 500 does not detect the second effect button operation trigger effect and the third effect button 37 operation input after executing the same control processing as the pattern F at time t0 to t4. In addition, the same control process as that of the pattern F is performed at times t8 and t9. In pattern I, after executing the same control processing as pattern F at time t0 to t3, image sound control unit 500 continues to execute the first effect without performing the first effect button operation trigger effect, The same control processing as that of the pattern F is performed at t8 and t9.

[Control processing of production example 2]
20-22 is a flowchart which shows an example of the control processing performed by the image sound control part 500 at the time of execution of the alerting | reporting effect shown to Fig.19 (a).

  First, in step S321, the CPU 501 of the image sound control unit 500 determines whether or not the notification effect execution command set in the notification effect start process in step S115 of FIG. 11 has been received. If the determination in step S321 is YES, the process proceeds to step S322. If the determination is NO, the process ends.

  In step S322, the CPU 501 sets a remaining time counter. The remaining time counter is a variable that retains the remaining time during which the player can accept the operation of the effect button 37, and the CPU 501 sets in advance the effect content determined by the effect control unit 400 as the initial value of the remaining time counter. The time (N3 seconds in FIG. 19A) corresponding to the effect button operation receivable period P0 being set is set. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S323.

  In step S323, the CPU 501 calculates the change rate of the display mode of the remaining time display. For example, when the remaining time during which the effect button operation can be received is displayed by the gauge 62, the change rate of the display mode can be expressed by the number of pixels in the length direction of the gauge 62 that is changed per unit time. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S324.

  In step S324, the CPU 501 starts the decorative symbol variation display. More specifically, the CPU 501 reads the decorative symbol array stored in the ROM 502 and sequentially displays the decorative symbols included in the read decorative symbol array in the decorative symbol display area on the image display unit 6. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S325.

  In step S325, the CPU 501 determines whether or not the production button operation receivable period P0 has started. The start timing of the effect button operation receivable period P0 can be determined based on whether or not the time specified in the notification effect execution command has elapsed after the start of the decorative symbol variation display. If the determination in step S325 is YES, the process proceeds to step S326. If the determination is NO, the determination in step S325 is performed again after a predetermined interval.

  In step S <b> 326, the CPU 501 displays an effect button operation suggestion display for prompting the player to operate the effect button 37 and a remaining time display indicating the remaining time during which the operation of the effect button 37 can be received on the image display unit 6. Let As described above, the effect button operation suggestion display is a display that suggests to the player that the operation input of the effect button 37 is possible and / or the contents of the effect button 37 operation to be performed by the player. In addition, the remaining time display is, for example, a gauge or progress bar whose length changes over time, a number that counts down or up over time, an image whose area changes over time, etc. What is necessary is just to be able to change a display mode with progress. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S327.

  In step S327, the CPU 501 starts subtraction of the remaining time counter and starts changing the display mode of the remaining time display. The CPU 501 changes the display mode of the remaining time display so that the remaining time display such as a gauge changes according to the change rate obtained in step S323. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S328.

  In step S328, the CPU 501 starts detecting the operation input of the effect button 37. More specifically, the CPU 501 determines the number of presses of the effect button 37 based on a signal indicating the operation state of the effect button 37 output from the effect control unit 400 in response to the operation of the effect button 37 by the player, Detects continuous pressing time, pressing interval, etc. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S329.

  In step S329, the CPU 501 determines whether or not an operation input of the effect button 37 that satisfies a predetermined condition is detected. If the determination in step S329 is YES, the process proceeds to step S330. If the determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S331.

  In step S330, the CPU 501 determines whether or not the effect button operation detection period P1 has ended. If the determination in step S330 is YES, the process proceeds to step S355 in FIG. 22. If this determination is NO, the determination in step S329 is performed again after a predetermined interval.

  In step S331, the CPU 501 stops the subtraction of the remaining time counter and stops the display mode change of the remaining time display. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S332.

  In step S <b> 332, the CPU 501 deletes the effect button operation suggestion display and the remaining time display from the image display unit 6. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S333.

  In step S333, the CPU 501 executes an effect button operation opportunity effect. The CPU 501 reads the effect contents of the effect button operation trigger effect from the ROM 502 and reproduces the read effect contents to execute the effect button operation trigger effect. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S334 in FIG.

  In step S334 of FIG. 21, the CPU 501 displays an effect button operation suggestion display for prompting the player to operate the effect button 37 and a remaining time display indicating the remaining time during which the operation of the effect button 37 can be accepted. 6 to display. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S335.

  In step S335, the CPU 501 restarts the subtraction of the remaining time counter and restarts the display mode change of the remaining time display. The CPU 501 changes the display mode of the remaining time display so that the remaining time display such as a gauge changes according to the change rate obtained in step S323. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S336.

  In step S <b> 336, the CPU 501 starts detecting the operation input of the effect button 37. More specifically, the CPU 501 determines the number of presses of the effect button 37 based on a signal indicating the operation state of the effect button 37 output from the effect control unit 400 in response to the operation of the effect button 37 by the player, Detects continuous pressing time, pressing interval, etc. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S337.

  In step S337, the CPU 501 determines whether or not an operation input of the effect button 37 that satisfies a predetermined condition is detected. If the determination in step S337 is YES, the process proceeds to step S339, and if this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S338.

  In step S338, the CPU 501 determines whether or not the production button operation detection period P2 has ended. If the determination in step S338 is YES, the process proceeds to step S355 of FIG. 22, and if this determination is NO, the determination in step S337 is performed again after a predetermined interval.

  In step S339, the CPU 501 stops the subtraction of the remaining time counter and stops the display mode change of the remaining time display. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S340.

  In step S <b> 340, the CPU 501 deletes the effect button operation suggestion display and the remaining time display from the image display unit 6. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S341.

  In step S341, the CPU 501 executes an effect button operation opportunity effect. The CPU 501 reads the effect contents of the effect button operation trigger effect from the ROM 502 and reproduces the read effect contents to execute the effect button operation trigger effect. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S342.

  In step S <b> 342, the CPU 501 displays an effect button operation suggestion display for prompting the player to operate the effect button 37 and a remaining time display indicating the remaining time during which the operation of the effect button 37 can be received on the image display unit 6. Let Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S343.

  In step S343, the CPU 501 restarts the subtraction of the remaining time counter and restarts the display mode change of the remaining time display. The CPU 501 changes the display mode of the remaining time display so that the remaining time display such as a gauge changes according to the change rate obtained in step S323. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S344.

  In step S344, the CPU 501 starts detecting the operation input of the effect button 37. More specifically, the CPU 501 determines the number of presses of the effect button 37 based on a signal indicating the operation state of the effect button 37 output from the effect control unit 400 in response to the operation of the effect button 37 by the player, Detects continuous pressing time, pressing interval, etc. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S345.

  In step S345, the CPU 501 determines whether or not an operation input of the effect button 37 that satisfies a predetermined condition is detected. If the determination in step S345 is YES, the process proceeds to step S347, and if this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S346.

  In step S346, the CPU 501 determines whether or not the effect button operation detection period P3 has ended. If the determination in step S346 is YES, the process proceeds to step S355 in FIG. 22. If this determination is NO, the determination in step S345 is performed again after a predetermined interval.

  In step S347, the CPU 501 stops the subtraction of the remaining time counter and stops the display mode change of the remaining time display. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S348.

  In step S <b> 348, the CPU 501 deletes the effect button operation suggestion display and the remaining time display from the image display unit 6. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S349 in FIG.

  In step S349 in FIG. 22, the CPU 501 executes an effect button operation opportunity effect. The CPU 501 reads the effect contents of the effect button operation trigger effect from the ROM 502 and reproduces the read effect contents to execute the effect button operation trigger effect. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S350.

  In step S <b> 350, the CPU 501 displays an effect button operation suggestion display for prompting the player to operate the effect button 37 and a remaining time display indicating the remaining time during which the operation of the effect button 37 can be accepted on the image display unit 6. Let Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S351.

  In step S351, the CPU 501 restarts the subtraction of the remaining time counter and restarts the display mode change of the remaining time display. The CPU 501 changes the display mode of the remaining time display so that the remaining time display such as a gauge changes according to the change rate obtained in step S323. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S352.

  In step S <b> 352, the CPU 501 starts detecting the operation input of the effect button 37. More specifically, the CPU 501 determines the number of presses of the effect button 37 based on a signal indicating the operation state of the effect button 37 output from the effect control unit 400 in response to the operation of the effect button 37 by the player, Detects continuous pressing time, pressing interval, etc. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S353.

  In step S353, the CPU 501 determines whether or not the receivable period P0 (detection period P4) of the effect button operation has ended. If the determination in step S354 is YES, the process proceeds to step S354. If this determination is NO, the determination in step S353 is performed again after a predetermined interval.

  In step S354, the CPU 501 determines whether or not an operation input of the effect button 37 that satisfies a predetermined condition is detected. In the present embodiment, the process moves to step S355 in both cases where the determination in step S353 is YES and NO.

  In step S355, the CPU 501 stops the subtraction of the remaining time counter and stops the display mode change of the remaining time display. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S356.

  In step S <b> 356, the CPU 501 deletes the effect button operation suggestion display and the remaining time display from the image display unit 6. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S357.

  In step S357, the CPU 501 ends the first effect. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S358.

  In step S358, the CPU 501 executes the second effect. As described above, the second effect is an effect different from the first effect, and is, for example, an effect informing that the operation input of the series of effect buttons 37 has been successful, a reach effect, a super reach effect, or the like. . The CPU 501 reads out and reproduces the content of the second effect specified by the notification effect execution command from the ROM 502 and outputs the content of the second effect to the image display unit 6 and the speaker 35. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S359.

  In step S359, the CPU 501 notifies the result of the special symbol lottery by temporarily stopping the decorative symbol on the image display unit 6. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S360.

  In step S360, CPU 501 determines whether or not the notification effect end command set in the notification effect end process in step S117 of FIG. 11 has been received. If the determination in step S360 is YES, the process proceeds to step S361. If this determination is NO, the determination in step S360 is performed again after a predetermined interval.

  In step S361, the CPU 501 temporarily stops the decorative symbol on the image display unit 6 and then stops the decorative symbol, and confirms and notifies the result of the special symbol lottery. Thereafter, the CPU 501 ends the notification effect execution process.

  23 to 25 are flowcharts illustrating an example of a control process performed by the image sound control unit 500 when the notification effect illustrated in FIG. 19B is executed.

  The control process shown in FIGS. 23 to 25 is obtained by removing the control process of steps S345 to S352 and the control process of step S359 from the flowcharts shown in FIGS. Therefore, after the process of step S344, the process proceeds to step S353. Further, after finishing the first effect in step S358, the process proceeds to step S360, and the CPU 501 notifies the result of the special symbol lottery. 23 to 25, the contents of the control process executed by the CPU 501 of the image sound control unit 500 in each step are as described in the control process of the same step shown in FIGS. Is omitted.

[Screen display example of production example 2]
Hereinafter, a specific example of the notification effect shown in FIG. 19 will be described with reference to FIGS. In the following description, an example in which an effect of changing the peripheral portion of the image display unit 6 to a predetermined color will be described as an effect button operation opportunity effect. Also, in the present embodiment, when performing a plurality of effect button operation trigger effects, the effect (blue effect) of changing the color of the peripheral portion of the image display unit 6 to blue is performed in the first effect button operation trigger effect. In the second effect button operation trigger effect, an effect of changing the color of the peripheral portion of the image display unit 6 to green (green effect) is executed. In the third effect button operation trigger effect, the peripheral part of the image display unit 6 is executed. The effect of changing the color of to red (red effect) is executed. Here, the jackpot reliability suggested by the effect button operation opportunity effect is set to increase in the order of the blue effect, the green effect, and the red effect.

  26 and 27 are screen transition diagrams showing an example of the notification effect shown in FIG. More specifically, FIGS. 26 and 27 show pattern A in FIG. 13, that is, the operation input of the effect button 37 satisfying the predetermined condition is performed in all of the four operation input detection periods P1 to P4. The example of the alerting | reporting effect performed when it breaks is shown. Hereinafter, an execution example of the notification effect will be described with reference to FIGS. 26 and 27 and FIG.

  First, in FIG. 26 (1), based on the notification effect execution command set by the CPU 401 of the effect control unit 400, the CPU 501 of the image sound control unit 500 starts the variable display of decorative symbols (time t0 in FIG. 19 (a)). ) Shows an example of a screen displayed on the image display unit 6 immediately after.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 26 (2), the first effect is started (time t1 in FIG. 19 (a)). The first effect in the present embodiment is executed by playing a moving image on the image display unit 6. During the execution of the first effect, the decorative symbol is displayed in a variable manner in a reduced state in the upper left of the image display unit 6.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 26 (3), an image of the effect button 37, a message 61 that prompts the effect button 37 to be struck, and a gauge 62 that represents the remaining time during which an operation input of the effect button 37 can be accepted. It is displayed on the display unit 6 (time t2 in FIG. 19A). With the display of the message 61 and the gauge 62, the detection period P1 of the operation input of the effect button 37 starts. In the present embodiment, a scale for dividing the gauge 62 is provided for convenience of explanation, but the scale may be omitted.

  While accepting the operation input of the effect button 37, as shown in FIG. 26 (4), the display mode of the gauge 62 changes so that the length of the gauge 62 becomes shorter as time passes. The effect button operation receivable period P0 in the effect example in FIG. 19A is N3 seconds, which is longer than the effect button operation receivable period P0 (N1 seconds and N2 seconds, respectively) in the effect examples in FIGS. Yes. However, the gauge 62 in FIG. 26 (3) is displayed in the same initial display mode as the gauge 62 displayed when the effects in FIGS. 13 and 14 are executed, that is, the same length. Accordingly, when the effect shown in FIG. 19A is executed, the rate of change of the display mode of the gauge 62 per unit time is smaller than that when the effect shown in FIGS. 13 and 14 is executed, and the gauge 62 executes the effect shown in FIGS. Decreases slowly compared to time. Due to the display mode change of the gauge 62, the player is informed that the remaining time for accepting the operation input of the effect button 37 has decreased.

  Next, FIG. 26 (5) is a screen displayed before the end of the detection period P1 and when an operation input of the effect button 37 satisfying a predetermined condition is detected (time T1 in FIG. 19 (a)). It is an example. An image 63 shown in FIG. 26 (5) is an effect image indicating that the effect button 37 is repeatedly hit with the player hitting the effect button 37 repeatedly. Thereafter, the image of the effect button 37, the message 61 that prompts the user to press the effect button 37, and the gauge 62 that represents the remaining time during which the operation input of the effect button 37 can be accepted are deleted from the image display unit 6.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 26 (6), the first effect button operation trigger effect is executed, and a blue effect is generated in the peripheral portion of the image display unit 6 (time T2 in FIG. 19 (a)).

  Next, in order to notify that reception of the operation input of the second effect button 37 starts after the first effect button operation trigger effect, as shown in FIG. 26 (7), an image of the effect button 37, A message 61 that prompts the effect button 37 to be struck and a gauge 62 that represents the remaining time during which the operation input of the effect button 37 can be received are displayed on the image display unit 6 (time T3 in FIG. 19A). At this time, since the subtraction of the remaining time counter and the display mode change of the gauge 62 are stopped in step S331 of FIG. 20 described above, the length of the gauge 62 displayed based on the value of the remaining time counter is It is equal to the length of the gauge 62 (FIG. 26 (5)) displayed before the button operation opportunity effect execution. With the display of the message 61 and the gauge 62, the detection period P2 of the operation input of the effect button 37 starts.

  Next, FIG. 26 (8) is a screen displayed before the end of the detection period P2 and at the time point when the operation input of the effect button 37 satisfying the predetermined condition is detected (time T4 in FIG. 19 (a)). It is an example. Thereafter, the image of the effect button 37, the message 61 that prompts the user to press the effect button 37, and the gauge 62 that represents the remaining time during which the operation input of the effect button 37 can be accepted are deleted from the image display unit 6. Even in the detection period P2, when the effect button 37 is repeatedly hit by the player, the image 63 is displayed on the image display unit 6 as an effect indicating that the effect button 37 is repeatedly hit.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 27A, a second effect button operation trigger effect is executed, and a green effect is generated in the peripheral portion of the image display unit 6 (time T5 in FIG. 19A).

  Next, in order to notify that reception of the operation input of the third effect button 37 starts after the second effect button operation trigger effect, as shown in FIG. A message 61 that prompts the effect button 37 to be struck and a gauge 62 that represents the remaining time during which the operation input of the effect button 37 can be received are displayed on the image display unit 6 (time T6 in FIG. 19A). At this time, since the subtraction of the remaining time counter and the display mode change of the gauge 62 are stopped in step S339 of FIG. 21 described above, the length of the gauge 62 displayed based on the value of the remaining time counter is It is equal to the length of the gauge 62 (FIG. 26 (8)) displayed before the button operation trigger effect is executed. With the display of the message 61 and the gauge 62, the detection period P3 of the operation input of the effect button 37 starts.

  Next, FIG. 27 (3) is a screen that is displayed before the end of the detection period P3 and when an operation input of the effect button 37 that satisfies the predetermined condition is detected (time T7 in FIG. 19 (a)). It is an example. Thereafter, the image of the effect button 37, the message 61 that prompts the user to press the effect button 37, and the gauge 62 that represents the remaining time during which the operation input of the effect button 37 can be accepted are deleted from the image display unit 6. Even in the detection period P3, when the effect button 37 is repeatedly hit by the player, the image 63 is displayed on the image display unit 6 as an effect indicating that the effect button 37 is repeatedly hit.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 27 (4), the first effect button operation trigger effect is executed, and a red effect is generated in the peripheral portion of the image display unit 6 (time T8 in FIG. 19A).

  Next, in order to notify that reception of the operation input of the fourth effect button 37 starts after the third effect button operation opportunity effect, as shown in FIG. A message 61 that prompts the effect button 37 to be struck and a gauge 62 that represents the remaining time during which an operation input of the effect button 37 can be received are displayed on the image display unit 6. At this time, since the subtraction of the remaining time counter and the display mode change of the gauge 62 are stopped in step S347 of FIG. 21 described above, the length of the gauge 62 displayed based on the value of the remaining time counter is It is equal to the length of the gauge 62 (FIG. 27 (3)) displayed before the button operation trigger effect is executed. With the display of the message 61 and the gauge 62, the detection period P4 of the operation input of the effect button 37 starts.

  Next, FIG. 27 (6) shows an example of a screen displayed on the image display unit 6 when an operation input of a predetermined effect button 37 is performed during the detection period P4. Even in the detection period P4, when the effect button 37 is repeatedly hit by the player, the image 63 is displayed on the image display unit 6 as an effect indicating that the effect button 37 is repeatedly hit.

  When the effect button operation receivable period P0 (detection period P4) ends (time t6 in FIG. 19A), the image of the effect button 37, the message 61 that prompts the effect button 37 to be struck, and the gauge 62 are deleted. After that, the first effect is ended and the second effect is started (time t7 in FIG. 19A). The second effect in the present embodiment is executed by reproducing a moving image on the image display unit 6. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 27 (7), the reach establishment is notified by temporarily stopping two identical decorative symbols in the upper left area of the image display unit 6.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 27 (8), the result of the special symbol lottery is notified by temporarily stopping three identical decorative symbols on the image display unit 6 at time t8. After that, at time t9, the decorative symbol is finally stopped on the image display unit 6, and the result of special symbol lottery (big hit) is confirmed and notified.

  FIGS. 28 and 29 are screen transition diagrams showing an example of the notification effect shown in FIG. 19B, and are the pattern H shown in FIG. 19B, that is, the detection period of the first operation button 37 operation input. In P1, the operation input of the effect button 37 satisfying the predetermined condition is performed, but the operation input of the effect button 37 satisfying the predetermined condition is not performed in the second operation input detection period P1 of the effect button 37. An example of the notification effect to be executed is shown. Hereinafter, an execution example of the notification effect will be described with reference to FIGS. 28 and 29 and FIG. 19B together.

  First, in FIG. 28 (1), based on the notification effect execution command set by the CPU 401 of the effect control unit 400, the CPU 501 of the image sound control unit 500 starts the variable display of decorative symbols (time t0 in FIG. 19 (b)). ) Shows an example of a screen displayed on the image display unit 6 immediately after.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 28 (2), the first effect is started (time t1 in FIG. 19 (b)). The first effect in the present embodiment is executed by playing a moving image on the image display unit 6. During the execution of the first effect, the decorative symbol is displayed in a variable manner in a reduced state in the upper left of the image display unit 6.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 28 (3), an image of the effect button 37, a message 61 that prompts the effect button 37 to be struck, and a gauge 62 that represents the remaining time during which an operation input of the effect button 37 can be accepted. It is displayed on the display unit 6 (time t2 in FIG. 19B). The gauge 62 in FIG. 28 (3) is displayed in the same initial display mode as that of the gauge 62 displayed at the time of execution of the effects in FIG. 19 (a), FIG. 13 and FIG. With the display of the message 61 and the gauge 62, the detection period P1 of the operation input of the effect button 37 starts.

  During the operation input receivable period P0 of the effect button 37, as shown in FIG. 28 (4), the display mode of the gauge 62 changes so that the length of the gauge 62 becomes shorter as time passes. The effect button operation receivable period P0 in the effect example of FIG. 19B is N4 seconds, which is shorter than the effect button operation receivable period P0 (N3 seconds) in the effect example of FIG. It is longer than the production button operation acceptance period P0 (N1 seconds and N2 seconds, respectively) in the production example. Accordingly, when the effect shown in FIG. 19B is executed, the rate of change of the display mode of the gauge 62 per unit time is larger than when the effect shown in FIG. 19A is executed, and smaller than when the effects shown in FIGS. . As a result, the gauge 62 decreases faster than when the effect in FIG. 19A is executed, and decreases more slowly than when the effect is executed in FIGS. Due to the display mode change of the gauge 62, the player is informed that the remaining time for accepting the operation input of the effect button 37 has decreased.

  Next, FIG. 28 (5) is a screen that is displayed before the end of the detection period P1 and when an operation input of the effect button 37 that satisfies the predetermined condition is detected (time T1 in FIG. 19 (b)). It is an example. Thereafter, the image of the effect button 37, the message 61 that prompts the user to press the effect button 37, and the gauge 62 that represents the remaining time during which the operation input of the effect button 37 can be accepted are deleted from the image display unit 6.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 28 (6), the first effect button operation trigger effect is executed, and a blue effect is generated in the peripheral portion of the image display unit 6 (time T2 in FIG. 19 (b)).

  Next, in order to notify that reception of the operation input of the second production button 37 starts after the first production button operation opportunity production, as shown in FIG. A message 61 that prompts the effect button 37 to be struck and a gauge 62 that represents the remaining time during which the operation input of the effect button 37 can be received are displayed on the image display unit 6 (time T3 in FIG. 19B). At this time, since the subtraction of the remaining time counter and the display mode change of the gauge 62 are stopped in step S331 in FIG. 23 described above, the length of the gauge 62 displayed based on the value of the remaining time counter is It is equal to the length of the gauge 62 (FIG. 27 (5)) displayed before the button operation opportunity effect execution. With the display of the message 61 and the gauge 62, the detection period P2 of the operation input of the effect button 37 starts.

  Next, FIG. 28 (8) shows an example of a screen displayed on the image display unit 6 when the operation input of the effect button 37 is not performed after the detection period P2 is started (time t3 in FIG. 19 (b)). ).

  When the operation input of the effect button 37 satisfying the predetermined condition is not detected within the operation input detection period P2 of the effect button 37, as shown in FIG. 29 (1), the image of the effect button 37 and the effect button 37 are displayed. The message 61 that prompts repeated hits and the gauge 62 are deleted (time t4 in FIG. 19B). Thereafter, as shown in FIG. 29 (2), the first effect is continuously executed until the effect button operation receivable period P0 ends. The blue effect displayed in the first effect button operation trigger effect is continuously displayed.

  When the effect button operation receivable period P0 ends (time t5 in FIG. 19 (b)), the first effect ends, and as shown in FIG. 29 (3), the screen returns to the normal decorative symbol variation display screen.

  Then, as shown in FIG. 29 (4), the result of the special symbol lottery is notified by temporarily stopping the decorative symbols on the image display unit 6 because of irregularities (time t8 in FIG. 19 (b)). Thereafter, the decorative symbol is finally stopped on the image display unit 6, and the result of special symbol lottery (losing) is confirmed and notified (time t9 in FIG. 19B).

  In addition, the screen transition when the patterns other than the above-described patterns A and H are executed among the notification effect patterns shown in FIG. 19 is a partial combination of the screen transition examples shown in FIGS. Since there is, description is abbreviate | omitted.

  As described above, in the gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment, the performance button operation receivable period P0 is the first time and the effect button operation receivable period P0 is different from the first time. When the remaining time display indicating the remaining time that can accept the operation input of the effect button 37 is initially displayed at the time of execution of the effect of 2 hours, the remaining time display is performed in the same manner. Therefore, when the operation suggestion display of the effect button 37 and the remaining time display such as the gauge 62 appear on the image display unit 6, it is difficult to distinguish the execution time and contents of the effect using the effect button 37, and the remaining time display. The execution time of the effect using the effect button 37 is suggested for the first time when the display mode change with time is observed. Therefore, with this configuration, after the operation suggestion display of the effect button 37 and the remaining time display such as the gauge 62 appear on the image display unit 6, the player can perform an effect using the effect button 37 unexpectedly. It is possible to realize a surprising and novel notification effect such as making the user feel that the execution time is long or having the expectation that the suggested contents will be unexpectedly developed.

  In addition, when the gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment executes a plurality of effect button operation trigger effects when the player inputs an operation on the effect button 37 that satisfies a predetermined condition, the effect button operation trigger effect is performed. After the execution, the remaining time display is displayed on the image display unit 6 in the same display manner as before the execution of the effect button operation trigger effect. If comprised in this way, since the remaining time display displayed on the image display part 6 does not change visually before and after execution of an effect button operation opportunity production | presentation, the natural remaining time which does not give an uncomfortable appearance to a player Display can be realized.

  In addition, when the gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment executes a plurality of performance button operation trigger effects, the effect button operation reception available period notified by the remaining time display of the gauge 62 or the like during the execution of the operation trigger effects. Pause the decrease in the remaining time of P0. In other words, at the start of the second and subsequent production button detection periods, the production button operation trigger production is performed without subtracting the time corresponding to the execution time of the operation moment production from the remaining time before the production button operation production production execution. The previous remaining time is taken over and displayed. Thus, by matching the remaining time displayed before and after the execution of the effect button operation trigger effect, there is no difference between the net time when the operation button 37 can actually be operated and the time notified by the remaining time display. Therefore, it is possible to realize a natural remaining time display that does not give the player a sense of incongruity in time at the start of the detection period of the effect button 37 for the second and subsequent times.

  Further, in the effect example of FIG. 19, even before the end of the operation input detection period of the effect button 37, when the operation input of the effect button 37 satisfying the predetermined condition is detected, the effect button operation receivable period P0. The remaining time is reduced and the mode change of the remaining time display is temporarily stopped, and an effect button operation opportunity effect is executed. Then, after execution of the effect button operation trigger effect, at the start of the detection period of the operation input of the effect button 37 for the second and subsequent times, the reduction in the remaining time of the effect button operation receivable period P0 and the change in the remaining time display mode are resumed. . If comprised in this way, the remaining time before execution of an effect button operation opportunity production will be taken over at the start of the detection period of the operation input of the production button 37 for the 2nd time or later, but this remaining time will be produced by the player. The number is increased or decreased according to the operation input timing of the button 37, the operation content of the effect button 37, or the like. Therefore, it is possible to realize an unexpected effect that the remaining time displayed at the start of the detection period of the operation input of the effect button 37 for the second and subsequent times changes depending on the operation state of the effect button 37 by the player. In addition, if an operation input of the effect button 37 that satisfies the predetermined condition is detected at an early stage from the start of the detection period of the effect button 37, the remaining operation is continued at the start of the operation input detection period of the effect button 37 for the second and subsequent times. Since the time can be increased, at the start of the detection period of the operation input of the effect button 37 for the second and subsequent times, the player is struck by the impression that the remaining time of the effect button operation receivable period P0 remains. Can be expected, and the player's motivation for the operation of the effect button 37 can be increased.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 19, as the number of performance button operation trigger effects executed during one notification effect increases, the jackpot reliability suggested by the effect button operation trigger effects increases. By doing so, it is possible to improve the player's expectation of jackpot when the effect button operation trigger effect is executed.

[Other variations]
Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, an example in which the effect button operation trigger effect is executed when the operation input of the effect button 37 satisfying the predetermined condition is detected during the operation input detection period of the effect button 37 has been described. Within the symbol variation display period, the operation input receivable time P0 and the detection periods P1 to P4 of the effect button 37 are fixed (that is, defined in advance in the effect pattern), and a predetermined condition is set after the end of the detection period. It may be detected whether or not an operation input of the satisfying effect button 37 has been performed. If comprised in this way, the effect using the effect image etc. which are displayed according to the operation input of the effect button 37 by a player (for example, an effect image which will destroy a screen with the continuous hit of the effect button 37 is displayed. And the effect button displaying the effect image that stores a predetermined meter or gauge along with the long press of the effect button 37) can be executed over the entire detection period of the operation input of the effect button 37. Even during the operation input detection period 37, the player's expectation for jackpot can be improved. Further, even when the operation input reception time P0 and the detection periods P1 to P4 of the effect button 37 are fixed within the special symbol variable display period, the remaining time counter is decreased and decreased at the end of each of the detection periods P1 to P4. Same as described in the above embodiment by temporarily stopping the display mode change of the remaining time display, and restarting the decrease of the remaining time counter and the display mode change of the remaining time display after execution of the effect button operation trigger effect It is possible to display the remaining time to achieve the effect.

  Further, in the effect example of FIG. 19, the first effect is executed after the decorative symbol variation display starts, and the effect button operation acceptance period P0 is provided during the execution of the first effect, and a plurality of effect button operation trigger effects are executed. The example which makes possible was demonstrated. However, the production button operation receivable period P0 can be provided in any period during the announcement production (during the special symbol variation display) regardless of the content of the production being executed. For example, without performing the predetermined first effect after the start of the decorative symbol change display, the effect button operation receivable period P0 is provided during the normal effect of the decorative symbol variable display, and a plurality of effect button operation trigger effects are provided. It may be executable. Alternatively, a production button operation acceptance period P0 may be provided during a reach production or a super reach production which is a development production with higher jackpot reliability, and a plurality of production button operation trigger productions may be executed.

  Further, in the pattern A of the effect example in FIG. 19, it is determined after the end of the effect button operation receivable period P0 whether or not the operation input of the effect button 37 satisfying the predetermined condition is performed in the fourth detection period P4. Yes. If comprised in this way, since the execution start time of a 2nd effect can be predetermined in an effect pattern, an effect can be performed as intended at the time of design. However, when the end time of the first effect and the start time of the second effect are advanced and the execution time of the second effect can be adjusted, before the end of the detection period P4 (effect button operation acceptance period P0) Alternatively, the first effect may be ended and the second effect may be started when the operation input of the effect button 37 satisfying the predetermined condition is performed in the fourth detection period P4. Similarly, in the pattern F of the effect example in FIG. 19, the first effect is ended and the second effect is started with the operation input of the effect button 37 satisfying the predetermined condition before the end of the third detection period P3. May be. If comprised in this way, since the execution timing of an effect changes according to operation of the effect button 37 by a player, unexpected effects, such as a 2nd effect starting early, can be implement | achieved.

  In addition, in the example of production in FIG. 19, the example of shifting from the first production to the second production has been described before notifying the result of the special symbol lottery (FIG. 19A), but the second production is not essential. The result of the special symbol lottery (both jackpot and loss) may be notified by the (temporary) stop of the decorative symbol without executing the second effect.

  Furthermore, in the example of production in FIG. 19, an example has been described in which the detection period of the operation input of the production button 37 is provided up to four times, and the production button operation trigger production can be executed up to three times. After the effect button operation detection period P4, the fourth effect button operation trigger effect may be executable. In addition, the number of detection periods of the operation input of the effect button 37 and the number of times that the effect button operation trigger effect can be executed are not limited to the example of the embodiment, and can be arbitrarily set.

  Furthermore, in the effect example of FIG. 19, the example in which the same effect is executed regardless of whether or not an operation input satisfying a predetermined condition is detected during the operation input detection period of the last effect button 37 has been described. Instead of configuring the notification effect in this way, when an operation input satisfying a predetermined condition is detected during the operation input detection period of the last effect button 37, a successful effect or the like indicating that the operation input is successful is displayed. After the execution, the notification effect may be configured so as to shift to the subsequent effect, and when the operation input satisfying the predetermined condition is not detected, the notification effect is transferred as it is.

  Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, as an effect button operation opportunity effect, an effect of displaying a message suggesting the jackpot reliability and an effect of changing the color of the peripheral portion of the image display unit 6 (effect of generating a color effect) Although illustrated, the content of the effect button operation effect is not particularly limited, and any effect content that can be executed in response to an operation input of the effect button 37 by the player can be employed. For example, triggered by the player's operation input of the production button 37, the production of the cut-in image and the character image, the production of changing the background image, the production of generating a predetermined sound, etc. are executed as the production button operation opportunity production. May be.

  Furthermore, in the example of the effect shown in FIG. 19, the example in which the effect of generating the color effect in the peripheral portion of the image display unit 6 is executed while continuing the first effect has been described. However, the operation input of the effect button 37 by the player is triggered. It is also possible to change the effect itself executed in the main part of the image display unit 6.

  Further, in the above embodiment, the lamp control unit 600 detects an operation input of the effect button 37, notifies the operation state of the effect button 37 to the image sound control unit 500 via the effect control unit 400, and based on the notification. The configuration example in which the image sound control unit 500 determines whether or not the operation input of the effect button 37 satisfies a predetermined condition has been described (FIG. 4). Instead of this configuration example, the effect button 37 may be connected to the effect control unit 400 so that the output signal of the effect button is detected by the effect control unit 400, or the effect button 37 may be configured as the image sound control unit. The image sound control unit 500 may be configured to detect the output signal of the effect button 37. When the effect control unit 400 detects the output signal of the effect button 37, the CPU 401 of the effect control unit 400 determines whether the output signal from the effect button 37 is switched between the ON state and the OFF state during the detection period of the effect button 37. Then, based on the number of times of switching between the ON state and the OFF state and the switching interval, it is determined whether or not the operation input of the effect button 37 satisfying the predetermined condition has been made. You may instruct | indicate execution of a predetermined production button operation opportunity production. Alternatively, the effect control unit 400 sequentially outputs a signal indicating the operation state of the effect button 37 to the image sound control unit 500 based on the output state from the effect button 37, and the image sound control unit 500 similarly to the above embodiment. However, it may be determined whether or not the operation input of the effect button 37 satisfying the predetermined condition has been made, and if the determination result is affirmative, the effect button operation trigger effect may be executed. When the image sound control unit 500 detects an output signal from the effect button 37, has the CPU 501 of the image sound control unit 500 made an operation input to the effect button 37 that satisfies a predetermined condition based on the output signal from the effect button 37? If the determination result is affirmative, an effect button operation opportunity effect may be executed. Alternatively, the image sound control unit 500 sequentially outputs a signal indicating the operation state of the effect button 37 to the effect control unit 400 based on the output state from the effect button 37, and the effect control unit 400 receives the signal from the image sound control unit 500. Based on the output signal, it may be determined whether or not the operation input of the effect button 37 satisfies a predetermined condition, and the determination result may be returned to the image sound control unit 500. In this case, the image sound control unit 500 may execute the effect button operation trigger effect based on the determination result returned from the effect control unit 400. In addition, instead of returning the determination result of whether the operation input of the effect button 37 satisfies the predetermined condition to the image sound control unit 500, the effect control unit 400 causes the effect control unit 400 to display the effect button The image sound control unit 500 may be instructed to execute the operation opportunity effect.

  Furthermore, in said embodiment, you may perform the production which operates the movable accessory 7 as production button operation opportunity production. When the image sound control unit 500 detects and determines the operation input of the effect button 37 as in the present embodiment, the image sound control unit 500 determines that the operation input of the effect button 37 satisfying a predetermined condition has been made. In such a case, the lamp control unit 600 may be instructed so that the effect control unit 400 is notified to that effect and the effect control unit 400 operates the movable accessory 7 in accordance with a predetermined control sequence. Alternatively, when the effect control unit 400 detects and determines an operation input of the effect button 37, the lamp control unit 600 may be instructed to operate the movable accessory 7 based on the determination result.

  Furthermore, in the above embodiment, after detecting the operation input of the effect button 37 that satisfies the predetermined condition, the gauge 62 that displays the remaining time during which the operation input of the effect button 37 can be accepted is deleted. You may display continuously without erasing. When the gauge 62 is erased after the end of the operation input detection period for the effect button 37 as in the present embodiment, the player can be focused on the effect button operation opportunity effect, so the effect effect of the effect button operation event effect Can be improved. On the other hand, when the gauge 62 is continuously displayed even after the operation input of the effect button 37 satisfying the predetermined condition is detected, it can be understood from the display of the gauge 62 that the period during which the operation input of the effect button 37 can be accepted is continued. It is easy for the player to grasp the period during which the operation button 37 can be accepted, and the continuation display of the gauge 62 can suggest the possibility of performing the effect button operation opportunity effect again. Can be improved.

  Furthermore, in the example of production shown in FIGS. 13 and 14, an example in which the user presses the production button 37 once during the production button operation receivable period P0 has been described. However, the operation contents of the production button 37 suggested to the player include the production button. The press is not limited to 37 once, but may be arbitrary, such as repeated hits, long presses, and multiple presses in accordance with a predetermined timing.

  Furthermore, in the example of the effect shown in FIG. 19, the example in which the operation content (sequential hitting) of the same effect button 37 is urged in the detection period of the operation input of the effect button 37 a plurality of times has been described. “Sequential Strike, Second Detection Period: Continuous Strike, Third Detection Period: Long Press, Fourth Detection Period: One Press”, etc. The operation input conditions of the effect button 37 may be different. In this case, the operation input conditions for the effect buttons set in each detection period may be any combination. If comprised in this way, since the combination of the operation input of the production button 37 can be set variously when the production button operation opportunity production of multiple times can be performed, the variation of the notification production using the production button 37 becomes abundant. This makes it possible to realize a gaming machine that can sustain the player's interest without getting the player bored.

  Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the hold image is displayed during the execution of the effect button operation trigger effect, but at the end of the operation input detection period of the effect button 37 or before the execution of the effect button operation trigger effect. The reserved image may be erased, and the reserved image may be displayed again after execution of the effect button operation trigger effect. In this case, an image such as a stage indicating the display area of the reserved image may be deleted simultaneously with the reserved image. If comprised in this way, since the display area of a hold image among the display areas of the image display part 6 can also be used for execution of a production button operation opportunity production, while being able to make production contents of production button operation opportunity production easy to see, By increasing the usable area, it is possible to increase the degree of freedom of the production contents of the production button operation opportunity production. Erasing the reserved image during the execution of the effect button operation trigger effect is particularly effective when the effect button operation trigger effect is executed using the peripheral area of the image display unit 6 as in the present embodiment.

  Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, an image (color effect displayed in the peripheral area of the image display unit 6) displayed by the execution of the effect button operation trigger effect is displayed during the operation input suggestion display of the effect button 37 (effect button 37). The display content displayed on the image display unit 6 by the execution of the effect button operation trigger effect is displayed during the operation input suggestion display of the effect button 37 (effect). It may be deleted during the detection period of the operation input of the button 37. If comprised in this way, the display area of the display content displayed on the image display part 6 by execution of production | presentation button operation opportunity production | presentation will display an image etc. during the operation input suggestion display of the production | generation button 37 or the operation input detection of the production | generation button 37. Therefore, it is possible to enhance the contents of effects executed during the operation input suggestion display of the effect button 37 and the operation input detection of the effect button 37.

  Further, in the above embodiment, when the operation input of the effect button 37 satisfying the predetermined condition is not performed during the operation input detection period of the effect button 37, the image of the effect button 37 and the message prompting the operation after the detection period ends. 61 and the gauge 62 indicating the remaining time are erased, but may be continuously displayed without being erased. In this case, the remaining time represented by the gauge 62 may be decreased with the passage of time. With this configuration, even if the operation input of the effect button 37 that satisfies the predetermined condition is not performed during the operation input detection period of the effect button 37, some effect may be further performed by operating the effect button 37. Can give the player a sense of expectation. If the effect button 37 is actually pressed while the image of the effect button 37, the message 61 for prompting the operation, and the gauge 62 indicating the remaining time are continuously displayed, an image 63 indicating that effect is displayed. You may display on the image display part 6. FIG.

  Further, in the effect example of FIG. 19, an example in which the number of operation input detection periods of the effect button 37 and the number of times that the effect button operation trigger effect can be performed is predetermined for each effect pattern has been described. Depending on the detection result of the operation input, the number of operation input detection periods of the effect button 37 and the number of executions of the effect button operation trigger effect may be variable. For example, the upper limit number of operation input detection periods of the effect button 37 and the upper limit number of times that the effect button operation trigger effect can be executed are determined for each effect time determined by the variation pattern, and the operation of the effect button 37 satisfying a predetermined condition is performed. In accordance with the remaining time (remaining fluctuation time) at the time when the input is detected, the number of operation input detection periods that can be set within the predetermined upper limit number of times and the executable button operation trigger that can be executed. The number of performances may be determined. If comprised in this way, even if the same production | presentation pattern is selected, since the notification production | presentation content changes according to the operation input of the production | production button 37 actually performed by the player, the notification production | generation using the production | production button 37 is carried out. The novelty can be improved.

  Further, in the effect example of FIG. 19, when no operation input of the effect button 37 satisfying a predetermined condition is detected during the operation input detection period of the effect button 37, the operation suggestion and remaining time display of the subsequent effect button 37 are displayed. The production button operation trigger production is not executed (patterns B to E and G to I in FIG. 19). Instead of such a configuration, even if the operation input of the effect button 37 satisfying the predetermined condition is not detected in the operation input detection period of the effect button 37 (for example, the detection period P1 in FIG. 19), it is set after that. The operation input of the effect button 37 may be received during the detection period of the operation input of the effect button 37 (for example, the detection period P2 in FIG. 19), and the effect button operation trigger effect may be executable. If comprised in this way, even if a player fails in the operation input of the effect button 37 during execution of the notification effect which can perform the effect button operation opportunity effect of multiple times, an effect button operation opportunity effect can be performed after that Therefore, the player's expectation can be maintained.

  Furthermore, in the above embodiment, an example of the notification effect using the effect button 37 has been described. However, as an operation means operated by the player, in addition to the effect button 37 or in addition to the effect button 37, A lever, a touch sensor, or the like may be used. Similarly, when a lever, a touch sensor, or the like is used as the operation means, a plurality of operation trigger effects are executed during the execution of one notification effect based on the notification effects and control processing described with reference to FIGS. Is possible. In addition, in a gaming machine equipped with a plurality of types of operation means, when it is possible to execute a plurality of operation trigger effects during the execution of one notification effect as in the above-described embodiment, detection of each operation input The operation means to be detected during the period may be different. For example, when three operation trigger effects can be executed during the execution of one notification effect, “operation means to be detected in the first detection period: effect button, detection target in the second detection period, The operation means for which the operation input is valid may be changed for each detection period, such as “Operating means: production button: operation means: touch sensor to be detected in the third detection period”. By configuring in this way, when a plurality of operation trigger effects can be executed, various combinations of operation inputs of the operation means can be set, so that variations of notification effects using the operation means are abundant and unexpected. A gaming machine capable of executing a certain notification effect can be realized.

  Although the features of the present embodiment and the features of the respective modifications have been described above, it goes without saying that these features may be combined.

  Further, the shape, number, installation position, and the like of each component provided in the pachinko gaming machine 1 described above are merely examples, and the scope of the present invention is not limited to other shapes, numbers, and installation positions. It goes without saying that the present invention can be realized without departing from the above. Further, it goes without saying that the numerical values and the like used in the above-described processing are merely examples, and the present invention can be realized even with other numerical values.

  As mentioned above, although this invention was demonstrated in detail using embodiment, the above-mentioned description is only the illustration of this invention in all the points, and does not intend to limit the range. It goes without saying that various improvements and modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. In addition, it is to be understood that the terms used in the present specification are used in the meaning normally used in the art unless otherwise specified. Thus, unless defined otherwise, all technical and technical terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. In case of conflict, the present specification, including definitions, will control.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Game machine 2 ... Game board 4 ... Display 5 ... Frame member 6 ... Image display part 7 ... Movable accessory 8 ... Board lamp 20 ... Game area 21 ... 1st start opening 22 ... 2nd start opening 23 ... Grand prize Mouth 24 ... Normal winning port 25 ... Gate 26 ... Discharge port 27 ... Electric tulip 31 ... Handle 32 ... Lever 33 ... Stop button 34 ... Eject button 35 ... Speaker 36 ... Frame lamp 37 ... Production button 38 ... Production key 39 ... Dish 43 ... Lock part 61 ... Message 62 ... Gauges 101, 201, 301, 401, 501, 601 ... CPU
102, 202, 302, 402, 502, 602 ... ROM
103, 203, 303, 403, 503, 603 ... RAM
111a ... 1st start port switch 111b ... 2nd start port switch 112 ... Electric tulip opening / closing part 113 ... Gate switch 114 ... Grand prize opening switch 115 ... Grand prize opening / closing part 116 ... Normal prize opening switch 200 ... Launch control part 211 ... Launching device 300 ... payout control unit 311 ... payout drive unit 400 ... production control unit 404 ... RTC
500 ... Image sound control unit 600 ... Lamp control unit

Claims (1)

Operating means operated by the player;
Represents the remaining period of the acceptable period during which the operation of the operation unit can be accepted, and displays the remaining period display for notifying the decrease in the remaining period by changing the display mode with the decrease in the acceptable period on the effect display unit. An operation acceptance period notifying means for causing,
Detecting means for detecting whether or not a predetermined operation has been performed on the operating means within the acceptable period;
An operation trigger production execution unit that executes an operation trigger production triggered by the detection unit detecting that the predetermined operation has been performed on the operation unit;
The operation trigger effect execution means can execute an operation trigger effect in which the contents of the effect progress in a stepwise manner a plurality of times within the acceptable period based on the detection result by the detection means,
The operation opportunity effect is an effect suggesting a jackpot expectation degree according to the degree of progress of the stage of the effect content,
The operation reception period notifying means
When notifying that the input from the operation means can be accepted for a predetermined first time, and notifying that the input from the operation means can be accepted only for a second time different from the first time In some cases, the effect display means displays the remaining period display having the same initial display mode,
A gaming machine that continuously displays the remaining period display without deleting it during execution of the operation opportunity effect.

Images