JP2016105966A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To enhance interest in a game by relating appearance timing of a notice mode by specific color during a notice performance or a state of a game machine in execution of the notice performance to reliability.SOLUTION: A performance control microcomputer determines whether an image has specific color such that a ratio controlled to a specific game state when the image having the specific color is displayed differs according to a kind of a performance mode, and makes different a determination ratio on whether a display period of an image having specific color is before or after a ready-to-win state.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 37

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine that executes variable display and controls it to an advantageous state advantageous to a player.

  As a gaming machine, a game ball, which is a game medium, is launched into a game area by a launching device, and when a game ball wins a prize area such as a prize opening provided in the game area, a predetermined number of prize balls are paid out to the player. There is something to be done. Furthermore, variable display means (variable display device) capable of variably displaying the identification information (also referred to as “variation”) is provided, and the display result of the variable display of the identification information in the variable display means becomes a specific display result. In some cases, the gaming state (the state in which the gaming machine is controlled) is controlled to a specific gaming state advantageous to the player.

  Further, in the variable display means, the symbols other than the symbol that becomes the final stop symbol (for example, the middle symbol of the left middle right symbol) continue for a predetermined period of time and are stopped and shaken in a state that matches the specific display result. It can be a big hit before the final result is displayed because it is moving, scaling, or deforming, or multiple symbols change synchronously with the same symbol, or the position of the displayed symbol is switched. An effect performed in a state where the sex is continued (hereinafter, these states are referred to as reach states) is referred to as reach effect. Further, the reach state and its state are referred to as a reach mode. Furthermore, variable display including reach production is called reach variable display. And when the display result of the symbol variably displayed on the variable display means is not a specific display result, it becomes “out of” and the variability display state ends. A player plays a game while enjoying how to generate a big hit.

  In addition, the effect of notifying that there is a high possibility that a big hit or reach (particularly, super reach) will occur is called a notice effect. The reach effect is an effect in a state where the symbols other than the final stop symbol are arranged, but the notice effect is an effect different from the reach effect, for example, a symbol other than the symbol that becomes the final stop symbol. It is executed before they are ready.

  Further, there is a gaming machine that realizes a notice effect by a specific motif (for example, a character image or a background image pattern or color that appears during the notice effect) (see, for example, Patent Document 1). In the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1, in the case of a big hit, the number of appearances of a specific color is increased during the notice effect. That is, when the number of appearances of a specific color is large, the reliability of the big hit (the possibility of becoming a big hit) increases.

JP 2009-247615 A

  However, although the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1 increases the player's expectation by increasing the number of specific colors that appear during the notice effect, the reliability and the specific color during the notice effect are increased. It is not related to the appearance timing of the game machine or the state of the gaming machine when the notice effect is executed.

  Therefore, the present invention provides a gaming machine that improves the interest of the game by associating the appearance timing of the notice mode with a specific color during the notice effect or the state of the gaming machine when the notice effect is executed and the reliability. The purpose is to do.

(1) A gaming machine according to the present invention is a gaming machine that executes variable display and controls it to an advantageous state (for example, a big hit gaming state) advantageous to a player, and a plurality of types of effect modes ( For example, there is an effect corresponding to the effect modes A and B), and prior determination means (for example, in the game control microcomputer 560) that determines whether or not to control to the advantageous state before the display result is derived and displayed. The part that executes the process of step S61) and the advance notice that the variable display state may be controlled to the advantageous state by displaying a predetermined advance notice image before or after the reach state is reached. Preliminary effect execution means for executing the effect (for example, a part for executing the processing of steps S830 to S833 in the effect control microcomputer 100); Color determination means for determining whether or not at least a part of the image is an image of a specific color (for example, a part for executing the processing of step S912 in the production control microcomputer 100), and color determination means Determines whether or not to make an image of a specific color so that the ratio controlled to an advantageous state when an image of a specific color is displayed depends on the type of the rendering mode (FIG. 36 and FIG. 36). (See FIG. 37) It is characterized in that the display timing of an image of a specific color is determined so as to differ between before reaching the reach state and after reaching the reach state (see FIG. 36).
According to such a configuration, the reliability can be varied according to the progress of the game and the effect mode, and a sense of expectation according to the progress of the game and the effect mode can be given to the player.
Further, it may be provided with effect mode switching means for switching the type of effect mode, and restricting means for restricting the display time of the image of a specific color before the effect mode type is switched.

(2) In the gaming machine of the above (1), color types that can select either a specific color image or a special color image different from the specific color as at least a part of the preview image. Selection means (for example, a portion of the production control microcomputer 100 that executes the processing of step S912), and the color type selection means reaches the state of the production mode and the display timing of at least a part of the preview image. Regardless of whether it is before or after reaching the reach state, the image of the special color is set so that the ratio controlled to the advantageous state when the image of the special color is displayed is comparable. It may be configured to select (see FIG. 36 and FIG. 37).
According to such a configuration, the interest of the game can be improved by the difference in the type of color, and the reliability of the notice effect that uses a special color is always the same level, so the player has a certain level of security. (A certain degree of confidence that it will be controlled to an advantageous state at this ratio).

(3) In the gaming machine of the above (2), the color type selection means may determine whether the execution time of the notice effect is in a reach state in one effect mode and whether the execution time of the notice effect is in a reach state. The ratio controlled to the advantageous state when an image of a specific color is displayed in the case of any of the following conditions becomes the advantageous state when an image of a special color is displayed. A condition (FIG. 36 and FIG. 37) that is higher than the controlled ratio and that is different from the above conditions (in the example shown in FIGS. In the example shown in FIG. 37, the ratio controlled to the advantageous state when the image of a specific color is displayed in the case of the effect mode A / reach or after the effect mode B / reach) is an image of a special color. Yes when is displayed Than the ratio that is controlled to a state so as to select the type of color lower may be configured (FIG. 37 see) as.
According to such a configuration, the relationship between the reliability of the notice effect that uses a specific color and the reliability of the notice effect that uses a special color changes depending on the situation, and the notice effect that uses a color. Can be further improved.

(4) In the gaming machines of (1) to (3) above, the notice effect execution means is only once before reaching the reach state during execution of variable display or after reaching the reach state. A notice effect using an image of a specific color may be executed (see FIG. 36).
According to such a configuration, the notice effect using a specific color is executed at most once before reaching the reach state or after reaching the reach state. Thus, the player can be prevented from being confused regarding the relationship with the ease of execution of the notice effect.

(5) In the gaming machines of (1) to (4) above, effect mode switching means for switching the type of effect mode (for example, a part for executing the processing of steps SS921, S922, S926, and S840F in the effect control microcomputer 100) ), And the color determining means, when the effect mode switching means switches the effect mode type during execution of variable display, the display timing of the image of the specific color is later than the time point when the effect mode type is switched. It may be configured to be determined at the time (see FIG. 38: the mode change at the time of reach establishment is allowed only when the start timing of the notice effect is after the reach).
According to such a configuration, the player can be prevented from being confused with respect to the relationship between the effect mode and the ease of execution of the notice effect according to the effect mode.

(6) In the gaming machines of the above (1) to (4), the effect mode switching means executes the notice effect using the image of a specific color while the notice effect executing means is executing variable display. It may be configured not to switch the type of effect mode during execution of the variable display (see FIG. 38: when the start time of the notice effect is after reach, the mode change when reach is established is allowed. .)
According to such a configuration, the player can be prevented from being confused with respect to the relationship between the effect mode and the ease of execution of the notice effect according to the effect mode.

It is the front view which looked at the pachinko game machine from the front. It is a block diagram which shows the circuit structural example of a game control board (main board). It is a block diagram showing an example of circuit configuration of an effect control board, a lamp driver board and an audio output board. It is a flowchart which shows the main process which CPU in a main board | substrate performs. It is a flowchart which shows a 4 ms timer interruption process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the variation pattern of the decoration design prepared beforehand. It is explanatory drawing which shows each random number. It is explanatory drawing which shows a jackpot determination table. It is explanatory drawing which shows the big hit classification determination table. It is explanatory drawing which shows the type of jackpot and the game state after a jackpot game. It is explanatory drawing which shows the variation pattern classification determination table for big hits. It is explanatory drawing which shows the variation pattern classification determination table for deviation. It is explanatory drawing which shows a hit fluctuation pattern determination table. It is explanatory drawing which shows a deviation variation pattern determination table. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the content of an effect control command. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the program of a special symbol process process. It is a flowchart which shows a starting port switch passage process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of a pending | holding buffer. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol normal process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol normal process. It is a flowchart which shows a fluctuation pattern setting process. It is a flowchart which shows a display result designation | designated command transmission process. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol change process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol stop process. It is a flowchart which shows a big hit end process. It is a flowchart which shows the presentation control main process which CPU for presentation control performs. It is a flowchart which shows a command analysis process. It is a flowchart which shows a command analysis process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the random number which the microcomputer for production control uses. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of production mode. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of a notice effect. It is a flowchart which shows production control process processing. It is a flowchart which shows a fluctuation pattern command reception waiting process. It is a flowchart which shows a decoration design change start process. It is a flowchart which shows a notification effect determination process. It is explanatory drawing which shows a notification effect mode determination table. It is explanatory drawing which shows the reliability of production mode. It is a flowchart which shows presentation mode determination processing. It is explanatory drawing which shows a production mode change table. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of process data. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the production | presentation performed according to the content of a process table. It is a flowchart which shows a process during decoration design change. It is a flowchart which shows a decoration design change stop process.

Embodiment 1 FIG.
Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
First, the overall configuration of a pachinko gaming machine that is an example of a gaming machine will be described. FIG. 1 is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine as viewed from the front.

  The pachinko gaming machine 1 includes an outer frame (not shown) formed in a vertically long rectangular shape, and a game frame attached to the inside of the outer frame so as to be opened and closed. Further, the pachinko gaming machine 1 has a glass door frame 2 formed in a frame shape that is provided in the game frame so as to be opened and closed. The game frame includes a front frame (not shown) installed to be openable and closable with respect to the outer frame, a mechanism plate to which mechanism parts and the like are attached, and various parts attached to them (excluding a game board described later). Is a structure including

  As shown in FIG. 1, the pachinko gaming machine 1 has a glass door frame 2 formed in a frame shape. On the lower surface of the glass door frame 2 is a hitting ball supply tray (upper plate) 3. Under the hitting ball supply tray 3, an extra ball receiving tray 4 for storing game balls that cannot be accommodated in the hit ball supply tray 3 and a hitting operation handle (operation knob) 5 for launching the game balls are provided. A game board 6 is detachably attached to the back surface of the glass door frame 2. The game board 6 is a structure including a plate-like body constituting the game board 6 and various components attached to the plate-like body. A game area 7 is formed on the front surface of the game board 6.

  An effect display device 9 composed of a liquid crystal display device (LCD) is provided near the center of the game area 7. The display screen of the effect display device 9 has a decorative symbol display area for performing variable display of decorative symbols in synchronization with variable symbol special display. Therefore, the effect display device 9 corresponds to a variable display device that performs variable display of decorative symbols. In the decorative symbol display area, for example, three pieces of decoration (production) identification information “left”, “middle”, and “right” are variably displayed so as to move from top to bottom, for example. The symbol display area includes symbol display areas 9L, 9C, and 9R of “left”, “middle”, and “right”, but the position of the symbol display area is not fixed on the display screen of the effect display device 9. Alternatively, the three areas of the symbol display area may be separated. The effect display device 9 is controlled by an effect control microcomputer mounted on the effect control board. When the variable control of the special symbol is executed on the special symbol display, the effect control microcomputer causes the effect display device 9 to execute the effect display along with the variable display, so that the progress of the game can be grasped. It can be made easier.

  On the left side of the lower part of the game board 6, a first special symbol display (first variable display portion) 8a for variably displaying the first special symbol as identification information is provided. In this embodiment, the first special symbol display 8a is realized by a simple and small display (for example, 7 segment LED) capable of variably displaying numbers 0 to 9. In other words, the first special symbol display 8a is configured to variably display numbers (or symbols) from 0 to 9. On the lower right side of the game board 6, a second special symbol display (second variable display portion) 8b for variably displaying the second special symbol as identification information is provided. The second special symbol display 8b is realized by a simple and small display (for example, 7 segment LED) capable of variably displaying numbers 0 to 9. That is, the second special symbol display 8b is configured to variably display numbers (or symbols) from 0 to 9.

  The small display is formed in, for example, a square shape. In this embodiment, the first special symbol display 8a and the second special symbol display 8b are configured to variably display a number (or a two-digit symbol) of, for example, 00 to 99. Also good.

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

  In this embodiment, two special symbol indicators 8a and 8b are provided. However, the gaming machine may include only one special symbol indicator.

  A winning device having a first start winning port 13 is provided below the effect display device 9. The game ball won in the first start winning opening 13 is guided to the back of the game board 6 and detected by the first start opening switch 13a.

  A variable winning ball device 15 having a second starting winning port 14 through which a game ball can be won is provided below a winning device having a first starting winning port (first starting port) 13. The game ball that has won the second start winning opening (second start opening) 14 is guided to the back of the game board 6 and detected by the second start opening switch 14a. The variable winning ball device 15 is opened by a solenoid 16. When the variable winning ball device 15 is in the open state, the game ball can be awarded to the second starting winning port 14 (it is easier to start winning), which is advantageous for the player. In addition, in a state where the variable winning ball device 15 is in the closed state, the game ball does not win the second start winning opening 14. In the state where the variable winning ball device 15 is in the closed state, it may be configured so that it is difficult to win, but it is possible to win (that is, the game ball is difficult to win).

  Hereinafter, the first start winning opening 13 and the second start winning opening 14 may be collectively referred to as a start winning opening or a starting opening.

  When the variable winning ball device 15 is controlled to be in the open state, the game ball heading for the variable winning ball device 15 is very likely to win the second start winning port 14. The first start winning opening 13 is provided directly under the effect display device 9, but the interval between the lower end of the effect display device 9 and the first start winning opening 13 is further reduced, or the first start winning opening is set. The nail arrangement around the first start winning opening 13 is made difficult to guide the game balls to the first starting winning opening 13 so that the winning rate of the second starting winning opening 14 is increased. It is also possible to make the direction higher than the winning rate of the first start winning opening 13. Note that winning means that a game ball has entered or passed through a predetermined area such as a winning opening.

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, the variable winning ball apparatus 15 that opens and closes only the second start winning opening 14 is provided. Any of the start winning ports 14 may be provided with a variable winning ball device that performs an opening / closing operation.

  Below the effect display device 9, four indicators that display the number of effective winning balls that have entered the first start winning opening 13, that is, the first reserved memory number (the reserved memory is also referred to as start memory or start prize memory). The 1st special symbol reservation memory | storage display 18a which consists of is provided. The first special symbol storage memory indicator 18a increases the number of indicators to be lit by 1 each time there is an effective start winning. Then, each time the variable display on the first special symbol display 8a is started, the number of indicators to be turned on is reduced by one. Below the effect display device 9, there is provided a second special symbol storage memory display 18b comprising four displays for displaying the number of effective winning balls that have entered the second start winning opening 14, that is, the second reserved memory number. Yes. The second special symbol storage memory display 18b increases the number of indicators to be lit by 1 every time there is an effective start winning. Then, each time the variable display on the second special symbol display 8b is started, the number of indicators to be turned on is reduced by one. Note that even if a game ball wins a start winning opening when the number of reserved memories reaches an upper limit (for example, 4), the start win becomes an invalid start win. That is, the start winning does not establish a start condition that is a variable display execution condition.

  In addition, the display screen of the effect display device 9 displays an area (hereinafter referred to as a reserved memory number display unit 18c) that displays a total number (total number of reserved memories) that is the sum of the first reserved memory number and the second reserved memory number. .) Is provided.

  For the variable display of the special symbol, after the start condition of the variable display is satisfied (for example, that the game ball has won the first start winning opening 13 or the second start winning opening 14), the variable display start condition (for example, holding) When the number of memories is not 0, the variable symbol display is started when the variable symbol special display is not executed and the big hit game is not executed. Then, the display result (stop symbol) is derived and displayed. Deriving and displaying the display result is to stop and display a symbol (an example of identification information) (excluding so-called stop before re-variation).

  In the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b, after a special symbol variable display is started, when a predetermined time (fluctuation time) elapses, the stop symbol which is a variable symbol variable display result is stopped. Display (derived display). If it is decided to win, a special special symbol (big hit symbol) is stopped and displayed. If it is determined to be off, special symbols other than the jackpot symbol are stopped and displayed. When the big hit symbol is derived and displayed, the gaming state is controlled to the big hit gaming state as the specific gaming state. In this embodiment, as an example, numbers indicating “3” and “7” are jackpot symbols and symbols indicating “−” are off symbols.

  Further, after the big hit gaming state based on the normal big hit which is not the probability variation big hit is ended, the gaming state is controlled to the time-short state. In the short time state, the variation time of the special symbol in the variable display of the special symbol is shortened compared to the normal state (the state that is not the probability variation state or the short time state). The time-short state is, for example, when one of the conditions is satisfied first, that is, the variable display of a special symbol is executed a predetermined number of times (for example, 100 times) and the variable display result is “big hit”. To finish. In addition, after the big hit state is ended, the normal state may be set instead of the time reduction state.

  Moreover, in the time-short state, the probability that the stop symbol of the normal symbol display 10 becomes a winning symbol is increased. That is, the second start winning opening 14 is easy to open, and a start winning is likely to occur. Specifically, in the probability variation state, the number of determination values determined to be a hit when it matches the value of the random number for determination per normal symbol is larger than that in the normal state. Further, in addition to increasing the probability that the stop symbol of the normal symbol display 10 becomes a winning symbol, the number of opening or the opening time of the variable winning ball device 15 is increased, or the number of opening and the opening time of the variable winning ball device 15 is increased. You may increase. Further, even in the short time state, the probability that the stop symbol of the normal symbol display 10 becomes a winning symbol is increased, the number of opening or the opening time of the variable winning ball device 15 is increased, and the number of opening and opening of the variable winning ball device 15 is increased. You may spend more time. Hereinafter, the short-time state is also referred to as a high base state.

  When it is determined to control the gaming state to the probability changing state, the gaming state is controlled to the probability changing state after the big hit gaming state ends. The probability variation state continues until, for example, a jackpot symbol is derived and displayed as a variable display result. A special symbol stop symbol derived and displayed when it is determined to control the gaming state to the big hit gaming state is referred to as a big hit symbol. The special symbol stop symbol that is derived and displayed when it is determined not to control the gaming state to the big hit state is referred to as an outlier symbol.

  Further, in the probability variation state, the probability of determining a big hit is higher than in the low probability state (normal state). Even in the probability variation state, the high base state is controlled.

  The effect display device 9 variably displays a decoration symbol (effect symbol) as a symbol for decoration (for effect) during the variable display time of the special symbol by the first special symbol indicator 8a or the second special symbol indicator 8b. I do. The variable display of the special symbol on the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b and the variable display of the decorative symbol on the effect display device 9 are synchronized. Synchronous means that the variable display start time and end time are the same, and the variable display period is the same. When the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b, the effect display device 9 stops and displays a combination of decorative symbols that reminds of the jackpot.

  In the display area of the effect display device 9, on the basis of the start condition being satisfied, the variation of the decorative symbols is started in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” symbol display areas. For example, “left” → The stop symbols of the decorative symbols are stopped and displayed (derived display) in the order of “right” → “middle”. The decorative symbols may be stopped and displayed in a predetermined order in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” symbol display areas, or simultaneously in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” symbol display areas. The stop symbol may be stopped and displayed.

  The period from the start of variable display of decorative symbols until the stop symbol is derived and displayed in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” symbol display areas (variable display period = variable time). The variable display state may be a predetermined reach state. The reach state is a display state in which the decorative symbols that are not yet stopped and displayed when the decorative symbols that are stopped and displayed in the display area of the effect display device 9 constitute a part of the jackpot combination, or This is a display state in which all or part of the decorative symbols change synchronously while constituting all or part of the jackpot combination. The display effect in the reach state is reach effect display (reach effect).

  Further, as shown in FIG. 1, a special variable winning ball device 20 is provided below the variable winning ball device 15. The special variable winning ball apparatus 20 includes an opening / closing plate, and a specific game state (a jackpot game) that occurs when a specific display result (a jackpot symbol) is derived and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b. In the state), the open / close plate is controlled to be opened by the solenoid 21, so that the large winning opening serving as the winning area is opened. The game ball that has won the big winning opening is detected by the count switch 23.

  The game area 6 is also provided with winning ports (ordinary winning ports) 29, 30, 33, and 39 for paying out a predetermined number of premium game balls determined in advance based on winning of the game balls. The game balls won in the winning openings 29, 30, 33, 39 are detected by the winning opening switches 29a, 30a, 33a, 39a.

  A normal symbol display 10 is provided above the effect display device 9. The normal symbol display 10 variably displays a plurality of types of identification information (for example, “◯” and “x”) called normal symbols.

  When the game ball passes through the gate 32 and is detected by the gate switch 32a, the variable display of the normal symbol display 10 is started. In this embodiment, variable display is performed by alternately lighting the left and right lamps (the symbols can be visually recognized when the lamp is lit). When the stop symbol on the normal symbol display 10 is a predetermined symbol (winning symbol), the variable winning ball device 15 is opened for a predetermined number of times. In other words, the state of the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is a state that is advantageous from a disadvantageous state for the player when the normal symbol is a stop symbol (a state in which a game ball can be awarded at the second start winning port 14). To change. In the vicinity of the normal symbol display 10, a normal symbol holding storage display 41 having a display unit with four LEDs for displaying the number of winning balls that have passed through the gate 32 is provided. Each time there is a game ball passing through the gate 32, that is, every time a game ball is detected by the gate switch 32a, the normal symbol storage memory display 41 increases the number of LEDs to be turned on by one. Each time variable display on the normal symbol display 10 is started, the number of LEDs to be lit is reduced by one. Further, in the high base state, the probability that the stop symbol in the normal symbol display 10 becomes a winning symbol is increased, and the opening time and the number of times of opening of the variable winning ball device 15 are increased.

  On the left and right sides of the game area 7 of the game board 6, there are provided decorative LEDs 25 that are displayed blinking during the game, and at the lower part there is an outlet 26 for taking in a hit ball that has not won. In addition, two speakers 27 that utter sound effects and sounds as predetermined sound outputs are provided on the left and right upper portions outside the game area 7. On the outer periphery of the game area 7, a top frame LED 28a, a left frame LED 28b, and a right frame LED 28c are provided. Furthermore, a decoration LED is installed around each structure (such as the effect display device 9) in the game area 7. The top frame LED 28a, the left frame LED 28b, the right frame LED 28c, and the decoration LED are an example of a decorative light emitter as an effect device provided in the gaming machine.

  In the gaming machine, a ball striking device (not shown) that drives a driving motor in response to a player operating the batting operation handle 5 and uses the rotational force of the driving motor to launch a gaming ball to the gaming area 7. ) Is provided. A game ball launched from the ball striking device enters the game area 7 through a ball striking rail formed in a circular shape so as to surround the game area 7, and then descends the game area 7. If the game ball enters the first start winning opening 13 or the second start winning opening 14 and is detected by the first start opening switch 13a or the second start opening switch 14a, it is in a state where variable symbol display can be started ( For example, when the special symbol variable display is completed and the start condition is satisfied), the decorative display variable display is started on the effect display device 9. In other words, the variable display of the special symbol and the decorative symbol corresponds to winning at the start winning opening. If the special symbol variable display cannot be started, the number of reserved memories is increased by 1 on the condition that the number of reserved memories has not reached the upper limit.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the circuit configuration of the main board (game control board) 31. FIG. 2 also shows a payout control board 37, an effect control board 80, and the like. A game control microcomputer (corresponding to a game control means) 560 for controlling the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to a program is mounted on the main board 31. The game control microcomputer 560 includes a ROM 54 for storing a game control (game progress control) program and the like, a RAM 55 as storage means used as a work memory, a CPU 56 for performing control operations in accordance with the program, and an I / O port unit 57. including. In this embodiment, the ROM 54 and the RAM 55 are built in the game control microcomputer 560. That is, the game control microcomputer 560 is a one-chip microcomputer. The one-chip microcomputer only needs to incorporate at least the CPU 56 and the RAM 55, and the ROM 54 may be external or built-in. The I / O port unit 57 may be externally attached. The game control microcomputer 560 further includes a random number circuit 503 that generates hardware random numbers (random numbers generated by the hardware circuit).

  The RAM 55 is a backup RAM as a non-volatile storage means, part or all of which is backed up by a backup power source created on the power supply substrate 910. That is, even if the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped, a part or all of the contents of the RAM 55 is stored for a predetermined period (until the capacitor as the backup power supply is discharged and the backup power supply cannot be supplied). In particular, at least data (a special symbol process flag or the like) corresponding to the game state, that is, the control state of the game control means, and data indicating the number of unpaid winning balls are stored in the backup RAM. The data corresponding to the control state of the game control means is data necessary for restoring the control state before the occurrence of a power failure or the like based on the data when the power is restored after a power failure or the like occurs. The data according to the control state corresponds to data indicating the progress state of the game. In this embodiment, it is assumed that the entire RAM 55 is backed up.

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

  The random number circuit 503 is a hardware circuit that is used to generate a random number for determination to determine whether or not to win a jackpot based on a display result of variable symbol special display. The random number circuit 503 has a random number generation function for updating numerical data according to a set update rule within a numerical range in which an initial value (for example, 0) and an upper limit value (for example, 65535) are set. The read numerical data is used as a random value.

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

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

  Further, an input driver circuit 58 for supplying detection signals from the gate switch 32a, the start port switch 13a, the count switch 23, and the winning port switches 29a, 30a, 33a, 39a to the game control microcomputer 560 is also mounted on the main board 31. Yes. The main board also includes an output circuit 59 for driving the solenoid 16 for opening and closing the variable winning ball device 15 and the solenoid 21 for opening and closing the special variable winning ball device 20 that forms a big winning opening in accordance with a command from the game control microcomputer 560. 31.

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

  An information output circuit (not shown) that outputs an information output signal such as jackpot information indicating the occurrence of a jackpot gaming state to an external device such as a hall computer is also mounted on the main board 31.

  In this embodiment, the effect control means (configured by the effect control microcomputer) mounted on the effect control board 80 instructs the effect contents from the game control microcomputer 560 via the relay board 77. The effect control command is received, and display control of the effect display device 9 for variably displaying the decorative design is performed.

  In addition, the effect control means mounted on the effect control board 80 is connected via the lamp driver board 35 to the decoration LED 25 provided on the game board and the frame LED 28 provided on the frame side (the top frame LED 28a, left The display control of the frame LED 28b and the right frame LED 28c) is performed, and the sound output from the speaker 27 is controlled through the sound output board 70.

  FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a circuit configuration example of the relay board 77, the effect control board 80, the lamp driver board 35, and the audio output board 70. In the example shown in FIG. 3, the lamp driver board 35 and the audio output board 70 are not equipped with a microcomputer, but may be equipped with a microcomputer. Further, without providing the lamp driver board 35 and the audio output board 70, only the effect control board 80 may be provided for effect control.

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

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

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

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

  As a signal direction regulating means, the signal inputted from the main board 31 is allowed to pass through the relay board 77 only in the direction toward the effect control board 80 (the signal is not passed in the direction from the effect control board 80 to the relay board 77). The unidirectional circuit 74 is mounted. For example, a diode or a transistor is used as the unidirectional circuit. FIG. 3 illustrates a diode. A unidirectional circuit is provided for each signal. Furthermore, since the effect control command and the effect control INT signal are output from the main board 31 via the output port 571 that is a unidirectional circuit, the signal from the relay board 77 toward the inside of the main board 31 is restricted. That is, the signal from the relay board 77 does not enter the inside of the main board 31 (the game control microcomputer 560 side). The output port 571 is a part of the I / O port unit 57 shown in FIG. Further, a signal driver circuit that is a unidirectional circuit may be further provided outside the output port 571 (on the relay board 77 side).

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

  In the lamp driver board 35, a signal for driving the LED is input to the LED driver 352 via the input driver 351. The LED driver 352 supplies a current to a light emitter provided on the frame side such as the frame LED 28 (the top frame LED 28a, the left frame LED 28b, and the right frame LED 28c) based on a signal for driving the LED. Further, an electric current is supplied to the decoration LED 25 provided on the game board side.

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

  Next, the operation of the gaming machine will be described. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing a main process executed by the game control microcomputer 560 on the main board 31. When power is supplied to the gaming machine and power supply is started, the input level of the reset terminal to which the reset signal is input becomes high level, and the gaming control microcomputer 560 (specifically, the CPU 56) After executing a security check process, which is a process for confirming whether the contents of the program are valid, the main process after step S1 is started. In the main process, the CPU 56 first performs necessary initial settings.

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

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

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

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

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

  Further, the CPU 56 transmits a power failure recovery designation command as an initialization command at the time of power supply recovery (step S43). Then, the process proceeds to step S14.

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

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

  By the processing in steps S11 and S12, for example, a random number counter for normal symbol determination, a special symbol buffer, a total prize ball number storage buffer, a special symbol process flag, a flag for selectively performing processing according to the control state, etc. The initial value is set.

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

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

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

  When the execution of the initialization process (steps S10 to S15) is completed, the CPU 56 repeatedly executes the display random number update process (step S17) and the initial value random number update process (step S18) in the main process. When executing the display random number update process and the initial value random number update process, the interrupt disabled state is set (step S16). When the display random number update process and the initial value random number update process are finished, the interrupt enabled state is set. Set (step S19). In this embodiment, the display random number is a random number for determining the type of the variation pattern or a random number for determining the variation pattern, and the display random number update process is for generating the display random number. This is a process for updating the count value of the counter. The initial value random number update process is a process for updating the count value of the counter for generating the initial value random number. In this embodiment, the initial value random number is the initial value of the count value of the counter for generating a random number for determining whether or not to win for a normal symbol (normal random number generation counter for normal symbol determination). It is a random number to determine. A game control process for controlling the progress of the game, which will be described later (the game control microcomputer 560 controls game devices such as an effect display device, a variable winning ball device, a ball payout device, etc. provided in the game machine itself. In the process of transmitting a command signal to be controlled by another microcomputer, or a game machine control process), the count value of the random number for determination per normal symbol is one round (the random number for determination per normal symbol is taken). When the value is incremented by the number of values between the minimum value and the maximum value of the possible values), an initial value is set in the counter.

  In this embodiment, the reach effect is executed using a decorative symbol variably displayed on the effect display device 9. Further, when the display result of the special symbol is a jackpot symbol, the reach effect is always executed. When the display result of the special symbol is not a jackpot symbol, the game control microcomputer 560 determines whether or not to execute the reach effect by lottery using a random number. However, it is the production control microcomputer 100 that actually executes the reach production control.

  When the timer interrupt occurs, the CPU 56 executes the timer interrupt process of steps S20 to S34 shown in FIG. In the timer interrupt process, first, a power-off detection process for detecting whether or not a power-off signal is output (whether or not an on-state is turned on) is executed (step S20). The power-off signal is output, for example, when a power supply monitoring circuit mounted on the power supply board detects a decrease in the voltage of the power supplied to the gaming machine. In the power-off detection process, when detecting that the power-off signal has been output, the CPU 56 executes a power supply stop process for saving necessary data in the backup RAM area. Next, detection signals from the gate switch 32a, the first start port switch 13a, the second start port switch 14a, the count switch 23, and the winning port switches 29a, 30a, 33a, and 39a are input via the input driver circuit 58, These state determinations are performed (switch processing: step S21).

  Next, the CPU 56 executes display control processing for performing display control of the first special symbol display 8a, the second special symbol display 8b, the normal symbol display 10, and the normal symbol hold storage display 41 (step S22). . About the 1st special symbol display 8a, the 2nd special symbol display 8b, and the normal symbol display 10, a drive signal is output with respect to each display according to the content of the output buffer set by step S32, S33. Execute control.

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

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

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

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

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

  The CPU 56 also performs a prize ball process for setting the number of prize balls based on detection signals from the first start port switch 13a, the second start port switch 14a, the count switch 23, and the winning port switches 29a, 30a, 33a, 39a. Is executed (step S30). Specifically, the payout control micro mounted on the payout control board 37 in response to the winning detection based on any one of the first start port switch 13a, the second start port switch 14a and the count switch 23 being turned on. A payout control command (prize ball number signal) indicating the number of prize balls is output to the computer. The payout control microcomputer drives the ball payout device 97 in accordance with a payout control command indicating the number of winning balls.

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

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

  Further, the CPU 56 performs a normal symbol display control process for setting normal symbol display control data for effect display of the normal symbol in an output buffer for setting the normal symbol display control data according to the value of the normal symbol process flag ( Step S33). For example, when the start flag related to the variation of the normal symbol is set, the CPU 56 switches the display state (“◯” and “×”) for the variation rate of the normal symbol every 0.2 seconds until the end flag is set. With such a speed, the value of the display control data set in the output buffer (for example, 1 indicating “◯” and 0 indicating “x”) is switched every 0.2 seconds. Further, the CPU 56 outputs a normal signal on the normal symbol display 10 by outputting a drive signal in step S22 according to the display control data set in the output buffer.

  Thereafter, the interrupt permission state is set (step S34), and the process is terminated.

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

  When the shifted symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b and the effect display device 9, the decorative symbol variable display state starts after the variable symbol variable display is started. There is a case where a predetermined combination of decorative symbols that do not reach reach is stopped and displayed without reaching the reach state. Such a decorative display variable display mode is referred to as a “non-reach” (also referred to as “normal shift”) variable display mode when the variable display result is an out-of-order design.

  When the shifted symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b and the effect display device 9, the decorative symbol variable display state starts after the variable symbol variable display is started. After reaching the reach state, the reach effect is executed, and a predetermined combination of decorative symbols that does not eventually become a big hit symbol may be stopped and displayed. Such a variable display result of the decorative design is referred to as a variable display mode of “reach” (also referred to as “reach out”) when the variable display result is “out of”.

  In this embodiment, when the big hit symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b, the reach effect is executed after the variable display state of the decorative symbol becomes the reach state. Finally, the decorative symbols are all stopped and displayed in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” symbol display areas of the effect display device 9.

  FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing a variation pattern of decorative symbols prepared in advance. As shown in FIG. 6, in this embodiment, the non-reach PA 1-1 to the non-reach pattern are used as the variation patterns corresponding to the case where the variable display result is “out of” and the decorative symbol variable display mode is “non-reach”. A variation pattern of reach PA1-4 is prepared. Further, normal PA2-1 to normal PA2-2, normal PB2-1 to normal PB2-2 are variations patterns corresponding to the case where the variable display result is “out” and the decorative symbol variable display mode is “reach”. Fluctuation patterns of Super PA3-1 to Super PA3-2 and Super PB3-1 to Super PB3-2 are prepared. Note that, as shown in FIG. 6, re-variation is performed once for the variation pattern of the non-reach PA 1-4 that is used in the case where the reach is not performed and is accompanied by a pseudo-continuous effect. The “pseudo-continuous” is a variation pattern in which an effect display is performed a predetermined number of times after the decorative symbols are temporarily stopped and displayed in all symbol display areas, and then the decorative symbols are changed again (pseudo-continuous variation) in all symbol display areas. .

  Of the variation patterns used for reaching and accompanied by pseudo-rendition, when normal PB2-1 is used, re-variation is performed once. Of the variation patterns that are used for reaching and have a pseudo-continuous effect, when normal PB2-2 is used, re-variation is performed twice. Furthermore, when using super PA3-1 to super PA3-2 among the fluctuation patterns used for reaching and accompanied by pseudo-rendition effects, re-variation is performed three times. Note that the re-variation is to temporarily execute the variable display of the decorative symbol after temporarily stopping the decorative symbol that is temporarily off from the start of the variable display of the decorative symbol until the display result is derived and displayed. .

  Also, as shown in FIG. 6, in this embodiment, normal PA2-3 to normal PA2-4, normal PB2-3 to normal P22-3 as normal patterns corresponding to the case where the variable symbol display result of the special symbol is a big hit symbol. Variation patterns of PB2-4, super PA3-3 to super PA3-4, super PB3-3 to super PB3-4 are prepared. Moreover, as shown in FIG. 6, when using normal PB2-3 among the fluctuation patterns accompanied with the effect of a pseudo-continuous, re-change is performed once. Of the fluctuation patterns used for reaching and accompanied by pseudo-continuous effects, when normal PB2-4 is used, re-variation is performed twice. Furthermore, when using super PA3-3 to super PA3-4 among the fluctuation patterns that are used for reaching and have the effect of pseudo-ream, re-variation is performed three times.

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 6, when the variation time is fixedly determined according to the type of reach (for example, the variation time is 32 in the case of Super Reach A with pseudo-ream). In the case of Super Reach A without pseudo-ream, the fluctuation time is fixed at 22.75 seconds.) For example, in the case of the same type of super reach Alternatively, the variation time may be varied according to the total number of pending storage. For example, even with the same type of super reach, the variation time may be shortened as the total number of pending storage increases. Also, for example, even in the case of the same type of super reach, when the variable display of the first special symbol is performed, the variable time may be varied according to the first reserved memory number. When the variable display of the two special symbols is performed, the variable time may be varied according to the second reserved memory number. In this case, a separate determination table is prepared for each value of the first reserved memory number and the second reserved memory number (for example, the variation pattern type determination table for the reserved memory numbers 0 to 2 and the reserved memory numbers 3 and 4). For example, a determination table may be selected according to the value of the first reserved memory number or the second reserved memory number, and the change time may be varied.

FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing each random number. Each random number is used as follows.
(1) Random 1 (MR1): Determine the type of jackpot (normal jackpot, probability variation jackpot described later) (for jackpot type determination)
(2) Random 2 (MR2): The type (type) of the variation pattern is determined (for variation pattern type determination)
(3) Random 3 (MR3): A variation pattern (variation time) is determined (for variation pattern determination)
(4) Random 4 (MR4): Determines whether or not to generate a hit based on a normal symbol (for normal symbol hit determination)
(5) Random 5 (MR5): Determine the initial value of random 4 (for determining the initial value of random 4)

  In this embodiment, the variation pattern is first determined by using the variation pattern type determination random number (random 2) and then by using the variation pattern determination random number (random 3). One of the variation patterns included in the pattern type is determined. Thus, in this embodiment, the variation pattern is determined by a two-stage lottery process.

  The variation pattern type is a group of a plurality of variation patterns according to the characteristics of the variation mode. For example, a plurality of variation patterns are grouped by reach type, and include a variation pattern type including a variation pattern with normal reach, a variation pattern type including a variation pattern with super reach A, and a variation pattern with super reach B. It may be divided into variable pattern types. Further, for example, a plurality of variation patterns are grouped by the number of re-variations of pseudo-continuations, a variation pattern type including a variation pattern without pseudo-reams, a variation pattern type including a variation pattern of one re-variation, It may be divided into a variation pattern type including a variation pattern of two variations and a variation pattern type including a variation pattern of three variations.

  In step S23 in the game control process shown in FIG. 5, the game control microcomputer 560 uses a counter for generating the jackpot type determination random number (1) and the random number for determination per ordinary symbol (4). Count up (add 1). That is, they are determination random numbers, and other random numbers are display random numbers (random 2, random 3) or initial value random numbers (random 5). In addition, in order to improve a game effect, you may use random numbers other than said random number. In this embodiment, a random number generated by hardware incorporated in the game control microcomputer 560 (or hardware external to the game control microcomputer 560) is used as the jackpot determination random number.

  FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing a jackpot determination table. The jackpot determination table is a collection of data stored in the ROM 54 and is a table in which a jackpot determination value to be compared with the random R is set. The jackpot determination table includes a normal-time jackpot determination table used in a normal state (a gaming state that is not a probability change state) and a probability change jackpot determination table used in a probability change state. Each numerical value described in the left column of FIG. 8 is set in the normal jackpot determination table, and each numerical value described in the right column of FIG. 8 is set in the probability variation big hit determination table. The numerical values shown in FIG. 8 are jackpot determination values.

  The CPU 56 extracts the count value of the random number circuit 503 at a predetermined time and sets the extracted value as the value of the jackpot determination random number (random R). When it matches the big hit determination value, it is decided to make a big hit (normal big hit or probability variation big hit) for the special symbol. Further, deciding whether or not to win a jackpot means deciding whether or not to shift to the jackpot gaming state, but the stop symbol in the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b It also means deciding whether or not to make a jackpot symbol.

  FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing a jackpot type determination table stored in the ROM 54. The jackpot type determination table shown in FIG. 9 is based on a random number (random 1) for determining the jackpot type when the variable display result is determined to be a jackpot symbol. It is a table referred to in order to determine one of the above.

  In this embodiment, the jackpot type is determined using a predetermined random number, but the stop pattern of the special symbol is determined using the predetermined random number, and the jackpot type is determined according to the determined special symbol type. It may be determined.

  FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing the type of jackpot and the gaming state after the jackpot game. As shown in FIG. 10, after the big hit game based on the probability change big hit, the gaming state is controlled to the probability change state and the high base state. After the big hit game based on the normal big hit, the gaming state is controlled to the normal state (non-probability changing state) and the high base state (however, until the end of the short-time state).

  11A and 11B are explanatory diagrams showing the big hit variation pattern type determination tables 132A and 132B. The jackpot variation pattern type determination tables 132A and 132B, when it is determined that the variable display result is a jackpot symbol, the variation pattern type is determined according to the determination result of the jackpot type and a random number for determining the variation pattern type. It is a table that is referred to in order to determine one of a plurality of types based on (Random 2).

  Each of the big hit variation pattern type determination tables 132A and 132B includes numerical values (determination values) to be compared with random number (random 2) values for variation pattern type determination, which are normal CA3-1 to normal CA3-2, A determination value corresponding to one of the variation pattern types of the super CA3-3 is set.

  For example, the big hit variation pattern type determination table 132A shown in FIG. 11A used when the big hit type is “ordinary big hit”, and FIG. 11B used when the big hit type is “probable big hit”. The allocation of determination values for the variation pattern types of normal CA3-1 to normal CA3-2 and super CA3-3 is different from the big hit variation pattern type determination table 132B.

  12A to 12C are explanatory diagrams showing the variation pattern type determination tables 135A to 135C for deviation. FIG. 12A shows a loss variation pattern type determination table 135A used when the gaming state is the normal state and the total number of pending storages is less than 3. FIG. 12B shows a loss variation pattern type determination table 135B used when the gaming state is the normal state and the total number of pending storages is 3 or more. Also, FIG. 12C shows a loss variation pattern type determination table 135C that is used when the gaming state is the probability variation state or the time saving state. The deviation variation pattern type determination tables 135A to 135C have a plurality of variation pattern types based on a random number (random 2) for variation pattern type determination when it is determined that the variable display result is a loss symbol. It is a table that is referred to in order to determine any of the above.

  In the example shown in FIG. 12, the different variation pattern type determination tables 135B and 135C are used depending on whether the gaming state is a probability change state or a short time state and the total number of pending storages is 3 or more. A common deviation variation pattern type determination table may be used for the case of the probability variation state or the short time state and the case where the total number of pending storages is 3 or more. In addition, in the example shown in FIG. 12C, one probability variation / short time deviation variation pattern type determination table 135 </ b> C is used, but the total number of pending storages as a variation variation type classification table for probability variation / short time states. It is also possible to use a plurality of variation pattern determination tables for deviation corresponding to the above (tables with different ratios of determination values).

  In this embodiment, when the gaming state is the normal state, the deviation variation pattern type determination table 135A used when the total pending storage number is less than 3 and the total pending storage number is 3 or more. Two types of tables are used, namely, the deviation variation pattern type determination table 135B, but the method of dividing the variation variation pattern type determination table is not limited to the example shown in FIG. For example, a deviation variation pattern type determination table corresponding to a combination of a plurality of other values stored in the combined pending storage number may be used. As an example, a deviation variation pattern type determination table for the total pending storage number 0 to 2, for the total pending storage number 3, for the total pending storage number 4, and so on may be used. Further, a deviation variation pattern type determination table corresponding to each value of the total number of pending storages may be provided.

  Further, in this embodiment, a plurality of outlier variation pattern type determination tables are used according to the total number of reserved storage, but an outbreak variation pattern type determination table according to the first reserved memory number and the second reserved memory number is used. You may make it use.

  Further, in this embodiment, when the total number of pending storages is 3 or more, the loss variation pattern type determination table 135B shown in FIG. 12B is used, and the total number of pending storages is 0 to 2 (3 In the case of the following), the deviation variation pattern type determination table 135A shown in FIG. 12A is used. As shown in FIG. 12, when the total number of pending storages is 3 or more, the ratio of reaching (normal reach, super reach) is smaller than when the total number of pending storages is 0-2. When the total number of pending storages is 3 or more, as shown in FIG. 12B, the non-reach CA 2-2 variation pattern type is selected and the non-reach PA 1-2 is a variation pattern of shortened variation. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the situation in which the operation rate of the variable display is reduced as much as possible by shortening the average fluctuation time as the total number of pending storage increases. When the deviation variation pattern type determination table according to the first reserved memory number or the second reserved memory number is used, that is, at the start of the variation of the first special symbol, it is deviated from a plurality according to the first reserved memory number. When the variation pattern type determination table is selected and the variation of the second special symbol is started, the variation pattern type determination table is selected from the plurality according to the second reserved memory number. The deviation variation pattern type determination table is configured so that a variation pattern with a short variation time is easily selected.

  FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing a hit variation pattern determination table 137A stored in the ROM 54. As shown in FIG. The hit variation pattern determination table 137A is based on the random number (random 3) for determining the variation pattern according to the determination result of the variation pattern type when it is determined that the variable display result is “big hit”. It is a table referred to in order to determine any one of a plurality of types of variation patterns.

  In the winning variation pattern determination table 137A, a numerical value (determination value) to be compared with a random pattern random number (random 3) value according to the variation pattern type, and the decorative symbol variable display result is “big hit” Is set to data (determination value) corresponding to one of a plurality of types of variation patterns corresponding to the case of “

  In the hit variation pattern determination table 137A shown in FIG. 13, the variation pattern type includes normal CA3-1, which is a variation pattern type including a variation pattern with only normal reach, and a variation pattern including a variation pattern with normal reach and pseudo-ream. It is classified into a normal CA 3-2 which is a type and a super CA 3-3 which is a variation pattern type including a variation pattern with super reach (which may be accompanied by a pseudo-ream).

  FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram showing a deviation variation pattern determination table 138A stored in the ROM 54. As shown in FIG. When it is determined that the variable display result is “out of”, the deviation variation pattern determination table 138A is based on a random number (random 3) for variation pattern determination according to the determination result of the variation pattern type. It is a table referred to in order to determine any one of a plurality of types of variation patterns. The deviation variation pattern determination table 138A is selected as a usage table according to the determination result of the variation pattern type.

  FIG. 15 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the contents of the effect control command transmitted by the game control microcomputer 560. In the example shown in FIG. 15, the command 80XX (H) is an effect control command (variation pattern command) for designating a variation pattern of a decorative symbol that is variably displayed on the effect display device 9 in response to variable display of a special symbol. (Corresponding to variation pattern XX, respectively). That is, when a unique number is assigned to each of the usable variation patterns shown in FIG. 6, there is a variation pattern command corresponding to each variation pattern specified by the number. “(H)” indicates a hexadecimal number. The effect control command for designating the variation pattern is also a command for designating the start of variation. Therefore, when the effect control microcomputer 100 receives the command 80XX (H), the effect display device 9 controls the effect display device 9 to start variable display of decorative symbols.

  Commands 8C01 (H) to 8C03 (H) are effect control commands indicating whether or not to make a big hit and the type of big hit. The effect control microcomputer 100 determines the display result of the decorative symbols in response to the reception of the commands 8C01 (H) to 8C03 (H). Therefore, the commands 8C01 (H) to 8C03 (H) are referred to as display result designation commands.

  Command 8D01 (H) is an effect control command (first symbol variation designation command) indicating that variable display (variation) of the first special symbol is started. Command 8D02 (H) is an effect control command (second symbol variation designation command) indicating that variable display (variation) of the second special symbol is started. The first symbol variation designation command and the second symbol variation designation command may be collectively referred to as a special symbol specifying command (or symbol variation designation command). Note that information indicating whether to start variable display of the first special symbol or to start variable display of the second special symbol may be included in the variation pattern command.

  Command 8F00 (H) is an effect control command (symbol confirmation designation command) indicating that the variable display (fluctuation) of the decorative symbols is terminated and the display result (stop symbol) is derived and displayed. When receiving the symbol confirmation designation command, the effect control microcomputer 100 ends the variable display (fluctuation) of the decorative symbols and derives and displays the display result.

  Command 9000 (H) is an effect control command (initialization designation command: power-on designation command) transmitted when power supply to the gaming machine is started. Command 9200 (H) is an effect control command (power failure recovery designation command) transmitted when power supply to the gaming machine is resumed. When the power supply to the gaming machine is started, the gaming control microcomputer 560 transmits a power failure recovery designation command if data is stored in the backup RAM, and if not, initialization designation is performed. Send a command.

  Command 9F00 (H) is an effect control command (customer waiting demonstration designation command) for designating a customer waiting demonstration.

  Commands A001 to A002 (H) are effect control commands for displaying a fanfare screen, that is, designating the start of a big hit game (big hit start designation command: fanfare designation command). The jackpot start designation command includes a jackpot start 1 designation command and a jackpot start designation 2 designation command corresponding to the type of jackpot.

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

  The command A301 (H) is an effect control command for displaying the jackpot end screen, that is, the end of the jackpot game and specifying that the jackpot game is normally a big jackpot (a jackpot end 1 designation command: an ending 1 designation command). is there. Command A302 (H) is an effect control command for displaying the jackpot end screen, that is, the end of the jackpot game and specifying that it is a probable big hit (big hit end 2 designation command: ending 2 designation command). is there.

  Command C000 (H) is an effect control command (first reserved memory number addition designation command) that specifies that the first reserved memory number has increased by one. Command C100 (H) is an effect control command (second reserved memory number addition designation command) that specifies that the second reserved memory number has increased by one.

  Command C200 (H) is an effect control command (first reserved memory number subtraction designation command) that specifies that the first reserved memory number has decreased by one. Command C300 (H) is an effect control command (second reserved memory number subtraction designation command) that specifies that the second reserved memory number has decreased by one.

  In this embodiment, an effect control command indicating that the reserved memory number has increased or decreased is transmitted for the reserved memory number, but an effect control command for designating the reserved memory number itself may be transmitted. Good.

  In this embodiment, the game control microcomputer 560 is common regardless of whether it is a start winning to the first start winning opening 13 or a start winning to the second starting winning opening 14. The winning determination result specifying command is transmitted, but different winning determination result specifying commands may be transmitted at the time of starting winning at the first starting winning port 13 and at the starting winning at the second starting winning port 14. Good. In this case, the production control microcomputer 100 performs the production for the first reserved memory corresponding to the start winning for the first start winning opening 13 and the second winning corresponding to the start winning for the second start winning opening 14. It is possible to make a difference from the effect on the reserved memory.

  The effect control microcomputer 100 (specifically, the effect control CPU 101) mounted on the effect control board 80 receives the above-described effect control command from the game control microcomputer 560 mounted on the main board 31. Then, the display state of the effect display device 9 is changed according to the contents shown in FIG. 15, the display state of the lamp is changed, or the sound number data is output to the audio output board 70.

  In this embodiment, the effect control command has a 2-byte structure, the first byte represents MODE (command classification), and the second byte represents EXT (command type). The first bit (bit 7) of the MODE data is always set to “1”, and the first bit (bit 7) of the EXT data is always set to “0”. Note that such a command form is an example, and other command forms may be used. For example, a control command composed of 1 byte or 3 bytes or more may be used.

  In addition, as the transmission method of the effect control command, the effect control command data is output from the main board 31 to the effect control board 80 via the relay board 77 by the eight parallel signal lines of the effect control signals CD0 to CD7, In addition to the effect control command data, a method of outputting a pulse-shaped (rectangular wave-shaped) capture signal (effect control INT signal) for instructing capture of the effect control command data is used. The 8-bit effect control command data of the effect control command is output in synchronization with the effect control INT signal. The effect control microcomputer 100 mounted on the effect control board 80 detects that the effect control INT signal has risen, and starts a 1-byte data capturing process through an interrupt process.

  FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a special symbol process (step S26) program executed by the game control microcomputer 560 (specifically, the CPU 56) mounted on the main board 31. As described above, in the special symbol process, a process for controlling the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b and the special winning opening is executed. In the special symbol process, the CPU 56 executes a start port switch passing process (step S321). Also, any one of steps S300 to S307 is performed according to the internal state (special symbol process flag).

  The processes in steps S300 to S307 are as follows.

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

  Fluctuation pattern setting process (step S301): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 1. Also, the variation pattern is determined, and the variation time in the variation pattern (variable display time: the time from the start of variable display until the display result is derived and displayed (stop display)) is defined as the variation display variation time of the special symbol. Decide to do. Also, a variable time timer for measuring the special symbol variable time is started. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (2 in this example) corresponding to step S302.

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

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

  Special symbol stop process (step S304): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 4. After the display result of the special symbol is derived and displayed, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S305 (5 in this example) when the big hit flag is set. If the big hit flag is not set, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S300 (0 in this example).

  Preliminary winning opening opening process (step S305): This is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 5. In the pre-opening process for the big prize opening, control for opening the big prize opening is performed. Specifically, a counter (for example, a counter that counts the number of game balls that have entered the big prize opening) is initialized and the solenoid 21 is driven to open the big prize opening. Also, the execution time of the special prize opening opening process is set by the timer, and the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S306 (6 in this example). The pre-opening process for the big winning opening is executed for each round, but when the first round is started, the pre-opening process for the big winning opening is also a process for starting the big hit game.

  Large winning opening opening process (step S306): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 6. A control for transmitting a presentation control command for round display during the big hit gaming state to the microcomputer 100 for the presentation control, a process for confirming that the closing condition for the big prize opening is satisfied, and the like are performed. If the closing condition for the special prize opening is satisfied and there are still remaining rounds, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (5 in this example) corresponding to step S305. When all the rounds are completed, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S307 (7 in this example).

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

  FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing the start port switch passing process in step S321. In the start port switch passing process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the first start port switch 13a is turned on (step S211A). If the first start port switch 13a is on, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the first reserved memory number counter for counting the first reserved memory number is 4 which is the upper limit value (step). S212A). If the value of the first reserved memory number counter is 4, the process proceeds to step S211B.

  If the value of the first reserved memory number counter is not 4, the CPU 56 increases the value of the first reserved memory number counter by 1 (step S213A) and increases the value of the total reserved memory number counter by 1 (step S214A). Further, the CPU 56 corresponds to the value of the total reserved storage number counter in the reserved storage specific information storage area (hold specific area) for storing the winning order to the first start winning opening 13 and the second start winning opening 14. Data indicating “first” is set in the area (step S215A).

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

  FIG. 18A is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of a reserved storage specifying information storage area (holding specified area). As shown in FIG. 18A, an area corresponding to the maximum value (8 in this example) of the total reserved memory number counter is secured in the reserved specific area, and the first start winning opening 13 or the second start is determined. Data indicating “first” or “second” is set in order of winning based on winning in the winning opening 14. Accordingly, in the reserved specific area, the winning order to the first start winning opening 13 and the second starting winning opening 14 is stored. The reserved specific area is formed in the RAM 55. Being formed in the RAM means an area in the RAM. FIG. 18A shows an example in which the value of the total pending storage number counter is 5.

  Next, the CPU 56 extracts values from the random number circuit 503 and a counter for generating software random numbers, and executes a process of storing them in the storage area in the first reserved storage buffer (step S216A). In step S216A, the CPU 56 extracts a value from the random number circuit 503 or a counter for generating software random numbers (random 1, 2, 3: see FIG. 7). As shown in FIG. 18B, the same number of storage areas as the upper limit value of the first reserved storage number are secured in the first reserved storage buffer. In the process of step S216A, the CPU 56 stores a value in a storage area corresponding to the value of the first reserved storage number counter in the first reserved storage buffer. A counter for generating a software random number, a first reserved storage buffer, and a reserved storage number counter are formed in the RAM 55. Note that the random number for random pattern determination (random 3) is not extracted in the first start port switch passing process (at the time of start winning) and stored in the storage area in advance, but is extracted at the start of fluctuation of the first special symbol. You may do it. For example, the game control microcomputer 560 may directly extract a value from a variation pattern determination random number counter for generating a variation pattern determination random number (random 3) in the variation pattern setting process.

  Further, the CPU 56 increases the number of lighting of the first special symbol reservation storage display 18a by 1 (step S219A). Moreover, control which transmits the 1st pending | holding memory number addition designation | designated command to the microcomputer 100 for effect control is performed (step S220A).

  When transmitting an effect control command to the effect control microcomputer 100, the CPU 56 sets the address of a command transmission table (preliminarily set for each command in the ROM) corresponding to the effect control command as a pointer. . And the address of the command transmission table according to an effect control command is set to a pointer, and an effect control command is transmitted in an effect control command control process (step S28).

  Next, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the second start port switch 14a is turned on (step S211B). If the second start port switch 14a is on, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the second reserved memory number counter for counting the second reserved memory number is 4 which is the upper limit value (step). S212B). If the value of the second reserved memory number counter is 4, the process is terminated.

  If the value of the second reserved memory number counter is not 4, the CPU 56 increases the value of the second reserved memory number counter by 1 (step S213B) and increases the value of the total reserved memory number counter by 1 (step S214B). Further, the CPU 56 sets data indicating “second” in an area corresponding to the value of the total reserved storage number counter in the reserved storage specifying information storage area (holding specified area) (step S215B).

  In addition, the CPU 56 extracts values from the random number circuit 503 and a counter for generating software random numbers, and executes a process of storing them in the storage area in the second reserved storage buffer (step S216B). As shown in FIG. 18B, the same number of storage areas as the upper limit value of the second reserved storage number are secured in the second reserved storage buffer. In the process of step S216B, the CPU 56 stores a value in a storage area corresponding to the value of the second reserved storage number counter in the second reserved storage buffer.

  In addition, the CPU 56 increases the number of lighting of the second special symbol reservation storage display 18b by 1 (step S219B). Moreover, control which transmits the 2nd pending | holding memory number addition designation | designated command to the microcomputer 100 for effect control is performed (step S220B).

  19 and 20 are flowcharts showing the special symbol normal process (step S300) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol normal process, the CPU 56 confirms the value of the total pending storage number (step S51). Specifically, the count value of the total pending storage number counter is confirmed. If the total pending storage number is 0, the process is terminated.

  If the total pending storage number is not 0, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the first data among the data set in the pending specific area (see FIG. 18A) is data indicating “first”. (Step S52). If it is data indicating “first”, a special symbol pointer (a flag indicating whether special symbol process processing is being performed for the first special symbol or special symbol process processing is being performed for the second special symbol) is set to “first 1 "is set (step S53). If it is not data indicating “first”, that is, if it is data indicating “second”, data indicating “second” is set in the special symbol pointer (step S54).

  In this embodiment, hereinafter, the first special symbol on the first special symbol display 8a depends on whether the data indicating "first" or the data indicating "second" is set in the special symbol pointer. And the variable display of the second special symbol on the second special symbol display 8b are executed using a common processing routine. Further, in this embodiment, by executing the processing of steps S52 to S54, the variation display of the first special symbol or the variation display of the second special symbol is performed in the order in which the start winnings are generated.

  Next, the CPU 56 reads out each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the reserved storage number = 1 indicated by the special symbol pointer in the RAM 55 and stores it in the random number buffer area of the RAM 55 (step S55). Specifically, when the special symbol pointer indicates “first”, the CPU 56 determines each disturbance stored in the storage area corresponding to the first reserved memory number = 1 in the first reserved memory number buffer. The numerical value is read and stored in the random number buffer area of the RAM 55. In addition, when the special symbol pointer indicates “second”, the CPU 56 reads each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the second reserved memory number = 1 in the second reserved memory number buffer. And stored in the random number buffer area of the RAM 55.

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

  That is, when the special symbol pointer indicates “first”, the CPU 56 saves the first reserved memory number = n (n = 2, 3, 4) in the first reserved memory number buffer of the RAM 55. Are stored in a storage area corresponding to the first reserved memory number = n−1. Further, when the special symbol pointer indicates “second”, it is stored in the storage area corresponding to the second reserved memory number = n (n = 2, 3, 4) in the second reserved memory number buffer of the RAM 55. Each random number value is stored in a storage area corresponding to the second reserved memory number = n−1.

  Therefore, the order in which each random value stored in each storage area corresponding to each first reserved memory number (or each second reserved memory number) is extracted is always the first reserved memory number (or (Second reserved storage number) = 1, 2, 3, 4 in order.

  Then, the CPU 56 decreases the value of the total pending storage number by one. That is, 1 is subtracted from the count value of the total pending storage number counter (step S57).

  Next, the CPU 56 reads a random R (a jackpot determination random number) from the random number buffer area and executes a jackpot determination module. In this case, the CPU 56 uses the jackpot determination random number extracted in step S216A of the first start port switch passing process or step S216B of the second start port switch pass process and stored in the first hold memory buffer or the second hold memory buffer. Is read and a big hit determination is performed. The jackpot determination module is a program that compares a jackpot determination value (see FIG. 8) determined in advance with a jackpot determination random number, and executes a process of determining a jackpot if they match. In other words, this is a program for executing the big hit determination process.

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

  Note that whether or not the current gaming state is the probability variation state is determined by whether or not the probability variation flag is set. The probability variation flag is set when the gaming state is shifted to the probability variation state, and is reset when the probability variation state is terminated. Specifically, it is determined to be a promising big hit, is set in the process of ending the big hit game, and when it is determined to be a big win, it is reset at the timing when the special symbol change display is ended and the stop symbol is stopped and displayed. The

  When it is confirmed in the processing of step S61 that the value of the random number for random determination (random R) matches one of the big hit determination values, the CPU 56 sets a big hit flag indicating that it is a big hit (step S65). ). Then, using the jackpot type determination table (see FIG. 9), the type corresponding to the value of the random number (random 1) for jackpot type determination stored in the random number buffer area (probability big hit or normal jackpot) is selected. The type of jackpot is determined (step S66).

  Further, the CPU 56 sets data indicating the determined jackpot type in the jackpot type buffer in the RAM 55 (step S67). For example, when the jackpot type is “normal jackpot”, “01” is set as data indicating the jackpot type, and when the jackpot type is “probable big hit”, “02” is set as data indicating the jackpot type. To do.

  Next, the CPU 56 determines a special symbol stop symbol (step S71). Specifically, when the big hit flag is not set, “−”, which is a missing symbol, is determined as a special symbol stop symbol. When the big hit flag is set, the big hit symbol “3” or “7” is determined as the special symbol stop symbol according to the determination result of the big hit type. That is, when the jackpot type is determined as “normal jackpot”, “3” is determined as a special symbol stop symbol, and when “probable big hit” is determined, “7” is determined as a special symbol stop symbol. .

  In this embodiment, the case where the jackpot type is first determined and the stop symbol of the special symbol corresponding to the determined jackpot type is shown, but the method of determining the jackpot type and the stop symbol of the special symbol is It is not restricted to what was shown in embodiment. For example, a table in which a special symbol stop symbol and a jackpot type are associated in advance is prepared, and when a special symbol stop symbol is first determined based on the random number for determining the big hit type, the corresponding jackpot is determined based on the determination result. You may comprise so that a classification may also be determined.

  Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the variation pattern setting process (step S301) (step S72).

  FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing the variation pattern setting process (step S301) in the special symbol process. In the variation pattern setting process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the big hit flag is set (step S91). When the big hit flag is set, the CPU 56 uses the big hit variation pattern type determination tables 132A and 132B (FIG. 11 (A) as tables used for determining the variation pattern type as one of a plurality of types. ) Or (B)) is selected (step S92). Then, the process proceeds to step S102.

  When the big hit flag is not set, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the time reduction flag indicating that the time reduction state is set (step S95). The time reduction flag is set when the gaming state is shifted to the time reduction state (including the time of shifting to the probability change state), and is reset when the time reduction state is ended. Specifically, it is usually decided to be a big hit or a promising big hit, set in the process of ending the big hit game, the timing of executing variable display for the number of time reductions, and the change of special symbols when it is decided that the big hit It is reset when the display is terminated and the stop symbol is stopped and displayed. When the time reduction flag is set, the process proceeds to step S99.

  When the time reduction flag is not set, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the total pending storage number is 3 or more (step S96). If the total number of pending storages is less than 3, the CPU 56 uses the variation pattern type determination table 135A (see FIG. 12A) as a table used to determine the variation pattern type as one of a plurality of types. ) Is selected (step S97). Then, the process proceeds to step S102.

  When the total pending storage number is 3 or more, the CPU 56 uses the variation pattern type determination table 135B for deviation as a table to be used for determining one of a plurality of variation pattern types (FIG. 12B )) Is selected (step S98). Then, the process proceeds to step S102.

  When the time reduction flag is set, the CPU 56 uses the deviation variation pattern type determination table 135C (see FIG. 12C) as a table used for determining one of a plurality of variation pattern types. ) Is selected (step S99). Then, the process proceeds to step S102.

  Next, the CPU 56 reads random 2 (random number for variation pattern type determination) from the random number buffer area (the first reserved storage buffer or the second reserved storage buffer), and selects it by the process of step S92, step S97, step S98 or step S99. By referring to the table, the variation pattern type is determined as one of a plurality of types (step S102).

  Next, the CPU 56 uses a hit variation pattern determination table 137A (see FIG. 13) as a table used to determine one of a plurality of variation patterns based on the determination result of the variation pattern type in step S102. One of the deviation variation pattern determination table 138A (see FIG. 14) is selected (step S103). Further, the random pattern 3 (random number for variation pattern determination) is read from the random number buffer area (first reserved storage buffer or second reserved storage buffer), and the variation pattern is determined by referring to the variation pattern determination table selected in step S103. Is determined as one of a plurality of types (step S105). When the random number 3 (variation pattern determination random number) is not extracted at the start winning timing, the CPU 56 uses the variation pattern determination random number counter for generating the variation pattern determination random number (random 3). It is also possible to extract the value directly from and to determine the variation pattern based on the extracted random number value.

  Next, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit the symbol variation designation command indicated by the special symbol pointer to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S106). Specifically, when the special symbol pointer indicates “first”, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a first symbol variation designation command. In addition, when the special symbol pointer indicates “second”, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a second symbol variation designation command. Further, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit an effect control command (variation pattern command) corresponding to the determined variation pattern to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S107).

  Next, the CPU 56 sets a value corresponding to the variation time corresponding to the selected variation pattern in the variation time timer formed in the RAM 55 (step S108). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the display result designation command transmission process (step S302) (step S109).

  In the case where it is determined to be out of place, instead of determining the variation pattern type first, it may be determined first whether or not to reach by a lottery process using a random number for reach determination. Then, based on the determination result as to whether or not to reach, the processing of steps S95 to S99 and S102 may be executed to determine the variation pattern type.

  Further, when deciding whether or not to reach by a lottery process using a random number for reach determination, the selection of reach according to the total number of reserved storage (may be the first reserved memory number or the second reserved memory number) Reach determination tables having different ratios may be selected, and it may be determined whether or not to reach so that the reach probability decreases as the number of reserved memories increases.

  FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing the display result designation command transmission process (step S302). In the display result designation command transmission process, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit any effect control command (refer to FIG. 15) of display result 1 designation to display result 3 designation in accordance with the determined type of jackpot or loss. Do. Specifically, the CPU 56 first checks whether or not the big hit flag is set (step S110). If not set, the process proceeds to step S114. When the big hit flag is set, when the big hit type is a probable big hit, control is performed to transmit a display result 3 designation command (steps S111 and S112). Specifically, whether or not it is a probable big hit can be determined by checking whether or not the data set in the big hit type buffer in step S74 of the special symbol normal process is “02”. Further, when the big hit type is not a probable big hit, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a display result 2 designation command (steps S111 and S113).

  In step S114, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a display result 1 designation command.

  Then, the CPU 56 decreases the number of lighting of the special symbol reservation storage display (the first special symbol reservation storage display 18a or the second special symbol reservation storage display 18b) indicated by the special symbol pointer by 1 (step S115). Further, control is performed to transmit the reserved memory number subtraction designation command indicated by the special symbol pointer to the production control microcomputer 100 (step S116). In step S116, when a value indicating "first" is set in the special symbol pointer, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a first reserved memory number subtraction designation command. Further, when a value indicating “second” is set in the special symbol pointer, control for transmitting the second reserved memory number subtraction designation command is performed.

  Further, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the special symbol changing process (step S303) (step S117).

  FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing the special symbol changing process (step S303) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol variation processing, the CPU 56 subtracts 1 from the variation time timer (step S125), and when the variation time timer times out (step S126), terminates the variation of the special symbol, and the first special symbol display 8a or 2. Control for deriving and displaying the stop symbol on the special symbol display 8b is performed (step S127). If data indicating “first” is set in the special symbol pointer, the variation of the first special symbol on the first special symbol display 8a is terminated, and “second” is indicated in the special symbol pointer. When data is set, the variation of the second special symbol on the second special symbol display 8b is terminated. Moreover, control which transmits the symbol determination designation | designated command to the microcomputer 100 for production control is performed (step S128). Then, the CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the special symbol stop process (step S304) (step S129). If the variable time timer has not timed out, the process ends.

  FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing the special symbol stop process (step S304) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol stop process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the big hit flag is set (step S133). When the big hit flag is set, the CPU 56 resets the probability change flag indicating the probability change state and the time reduction flag indicating the time reduction state (step S134), and starts the big hit in the effect control microcomputer 100. Control to transmit the designated command is performed (step S135). Specifically, when the type of jackpot is normally jackpot, a jackpot start 1 designation command is transmitted. If the jackpot type is a probabilistic jackpot, a jackpot start 2 designation command is transmitted. Whether the big hit type is the normal big hit or the probable big hit is determined by data indicating the big hit type stored in the RAM 55 (data stored in the big hit type buffer).

  Further, a value corresponding to the big hit display time (for example, the time for notifying that the big hit has occurred in the effect display device 9) is set in the big prize opening control timer (step S136). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the pre-winner opening pre-processing (step S305) (step S137).

  When the big hit flag is not set, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the probability change flag indicating the probability change state is set (step S140). If it is set, the process proceeds to step S145. When the probability variation flag is not set, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the time reduction flag indicating that the time reduction state is set (step S141). If not set, the process proceeds to step S145. When the time reduction flag is set (that is, when the time change state is not controlled and only the time reduction state is controlled), the value of the time reduction counter indicating the number of times that the special symbol can be changed in the time reduction state is- 1 (step S142). Then, when the value of the time reduction counter reaches 0 (step S143), the CPU 56 resets the time reduction flag (step S144).

  Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the special symbol normal process (step S300) (step S145).

  FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing the jackpot end process (step S307) in the special symbol process. In the jackpot end process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the jackpot end display timer is set (step S160). If the jackpot end display timer is set, the process proceeds to step S164. If the jackpot end display timer is not set, the jackpot flag is reset (step S161), and control for transmitting a jackpot end designation command is performed (step S162). In the process of step S162, the CPU 56 transmits a big hit end 1 designation command when it is a normal big hit, and sends a big hit end 2 designation command when it is a probable big hit. Then, a value corresponding to the display time corresponding to the time during which the big hit end display is performed in the effect display device 9 (big hit end display time) is set in the big hit end display timer (step S163), and the processing is ended.

  In step S164, 1 is subtracted from the value of the jackpot end display timer. Then, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the jackpot end display timer is 0, that is, whether or not the jackpot end display time has elapsed (step S165). If not, the process ends.

  When the jackpot end display time has elapsed, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the jackpot type is a probability variation jackpot (step S166). If it is not a probable big hit (that is, if it is a normal big hit), the CPU 56 sets a predetermined number of times (for example, 100) in a time reduction counter for counting the number of time reductions (step S167). Then, the process proceeds to step S169.

  When it is a probable big hit, the CPU 56 sets a probable change flag and shifts the gaming state to the probable change state (step S168). Then, the process proceeds to step S169.

  In step S169, the CPU 56 sets a time reduction flag.

  In this embodiment, the time reduction flag is also used to determine whether to increase the opening time of the variable winning ball device 15 or increase the number of times of opening. In this case, specifically, in the normal symbol process (see step S27), the CPU 56 confirms whether or not the time reduction flag is set when the normal symbol variation display result is a win. If it is, the control is performed to open the variable winning ball device 15 by extending the opening time or increasing the number of times of opening. The time reduction flag is used to determine whether or not to shorten the variation time of the special symbol. In addition, in the normal symbol process (see step S27), the CPU 56 determines whether the normal symbol variation display result is more favorable when the hour / hour flag is set than when the hour / hour flag is not set. Increase the probability of winning (ratio determined per winning) in the lottery of no.

  Then, the CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the special symbol normal process (step S300) (step S170).

  Next, the operation of the effect control means will be described. FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing main processing executed by the effect control microcomputer 100 (specifically, effect control CPU 101) as effect control means mounted on the effect control board 80. The effect control CPU 101 starts executing the main process when the power is turned on. In the main processing, first, initialization processing is performed for clearing the RAM area, setting various initial values, and initializing a timer for determining the activation control activation interval (for example, 2 ms) (step S701). . Thereafter, the effect control CPU 101 executes a random number update process for updating the counter value of a counter for generating a predetermined random number (step S702). Then, the timer interrupt flag is monitored (step S703). If the timer interrupt flag is not set, the process proceeds to step S702. When a timer interrupt occurs, the effect control CPU 101 sets a timer interrupt flag in the timer interrupt process. If the timer interrupt flag is set, the effect control CPU 101 clears the flag (step S704), and executes the effect control process of steps S705 to S706.

  In the effect control process, the effect control CPU 101 first analyzes the received effect control command and performs a process of setting a flag according to the received effect control command (command analysis process: step S705).

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 performs effect control process processing (step S706). In the effect control process, the process corresponding to the current control state (effect control process flag) is selected from the processes corresponding to the control state, and effect control such as display control of the effect display device 9 is executed. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S702.

  The effect control command transmitted from the game control microcomputer 560 is received by an interrupt process based on the effect control INT signal, and a ring buffer type command reception buffer capable of storing six 2-byte effect control commands. (Formed in RAM). A command reception number counter indicating in which area the received command is stored is used. The command reception number counter takes a value from 0 to 11. In the command analysis process, the effect control CPU 101 analyzes which command (see FIG. 15) is the effect control command stored in the command reception buffer.

  27 and 28 are flowcharts showing a specific example of the command analysis process (step S705). The effect control command received from the main board 31 is stored in the reception command buffer, but in the command analysis process, the effect control CPU 101 confirms the content of the command stored in the command reception buffer.

  In the command analysis process, the effect control CPU 101 first checks whether or not a reception command is stored in the command reception buffer (step S611). Whether it is stored or not is determined by comparing the value of the command reception number counter with the read pointer. The case where both match is the case where the received command is not stored. If the reception command is stored in the command reception buffer, the effect control CPU 101 reads the reception command from the command reception buffer (step S612). When read, the value of the read pointer is incremented by +2 (step S613). The reason for +2 is that 2 bytes (1 command) are read at a time.

  If the received effect control command is a power-on specification command (initialization specification command) (step S615), the effect control CPU 101 displays an initial screen on the effect display device 9 indicating that the initialization process has been executed. Control is performed (step S616). The initial screen includes an initial display of predetermined decorative symbols.

  Further, if the received effect control command is a power failure recovery designation command (step S617), a predetermined power failure recovery screen (screen for displaying information notifying the player that the gaming state is continuing) is displayed. Display control is performed (step S618).

  If the received effect control command is a variation pattern command (step S621), the effect control CPU 101 stores the received variation pattern command in a variation pattern command storage area formed in the RAM (step S622). Then, a variation pattern command reception flag is set (step S623).

  If the received effect control command is a display result designation command (step S624), the effect control CPU 101 forms the received display result designation command (display result 1 designation command to display result 3 designation command) in the RAM. Is stored in the display result designation command storage area (step S625).

  If the received effect control command is a symbol confirmation designation command (step S626), the effect control CPU 101 sets a confirmed command reception flag (step S627).

  If the received effect control command is the first reserved memory number addition designation command (step S641), the effect control CPU 101 adds 1 to the value of the total reserved memory number (step S642). That is, the value of the total pending storage number counter is incremented by one. Further, the production control CPU 101 updates the display of the reserved memory number display unit 18c in accordance with the updated total number of reserved memories (step S643). That is, the number of images (for example, circles) displayed on the reserved storage number display unit 18c is increased by one.

  If the received effect control command is the second reserved memory number addition designation command (step S644), the effect control CPU 101 adds 1 to the value of the combined reserved memory number (step S645). Further, the production control CPU 101 updates the display of the reserved memory number display unit 18c in accordance with the updated total number of reserved memories (step S646). That is, the number of images (for example, circles) displayed on the reserved storage number display unit 18c is increased by one.

  It should be noted that the production control CPU 101 uses a display color corresponding to the second reserved memory (for example, red) different from a display color corresponding to the first reserved memory (for example, blue) in the reserved memory number display unit 18c. Make it.

  If the received effect control command is the first reserved memory number subtraction designation command (step S651), the effect control CPU 101 subtracts 1 from the value of the total reserved memory number (step S652). Further, the effect control CPU 101 updates the display of the reserved memory number display unit 18c in accordance with the updated total number of reserved memories (step S653). That is, the number of images (for example, circles) displayed on the reserved storage number display unit 18c is reduced by one. Specifically, for example, the leftmost image among the displayed images is deleted, and the other images are moved to the left side.

  If the received effect control command is the second reserved memory number subtraction designation command (step S654), the effect control CPU 101 subtracts 1 from the value of the combined reserved memory number (step S655). Further, the production control CPU 101 updates the display of the reserved memory number display unit 18c according to the updated total number of reserved memories (step S656). That is, the number of images (for example, circles) displayed on the reserved storage number display unit 18c is reduced by one. Specifically, for example, the leftmost image among the displayed images is deleted, and the other images are moved to the left side.

  If the received effect control command is another command, CPU 101 for effect control sets a flag corresponding to the received effect control command (step S671). Then, control goes to a step S611.

  FIG. 29 is an explanatory diagram showing random numbers used by the effect control microcomputer 100. As shown in FIG. 29, in this embodiment, the microcomputer 100 for effect control includes the random numbers SR1-1 to SR1-3 for determining the first to third final stop symbols, the temporary stop of the decorative symbol in the pseudo-continuous effect. First to third temporary stop symbol determining random numbers SR2-1 to SR2-3 for determining the number of times, effect mode change determining random number SR3 for determining whether or not to change the effect mode (the possible range is 1) ~ 6), a random number SR4 for determining the notice effect for determining whether or not to execute the notice effect and the type of the notice effect (the possible range is 1 to 1794) is used. Note that random numbers other than these may be used in order to enhance the effect.

  The random numbers SR1-1 to SR1-3 for determining the first to third final stop symbols are “left”, “middle”, “in” in the display area of the effect display device 9 as stop symbols that are variable display results of the decorative symbols. This is a random number used to determine a decorative symbol (final stop symbol) to be stopped and displayed in each “right” symbol display area. The final stop symbols are three decorative symbols that are finally stopped and displayed in each of the “left”, “middle”, and “right” symbol display areas when the variable display of the decorative symbols ends. The combination of the big hit symbols of the decorative symbols is determined by any one of the random numbers SR1-1 to SR1-3 for determining the first to third final stop symbols.

  Of the first to third temporary stop symbol determination random numbers SR2-1 to SR2-3, the first temporary stop symbol determination random number SR2-1 is a random number for determining the first temporary stop symbol. The second temporary stop symbol determining random number SR2-2 is a random number for determining the second temporary stop symbol when the decorative symbol is displayed temporarily stopped twice or more during one change. The third temporary stop symbol determining random number SR2-3 is a random number for determining the third temporary stop symbol when three decorative symbols are temporarily stopped during one change.

  FIG. 30 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the effect mode. In this embodiment, there are an effect mode A shown in FIG. 30A and an effect mode B shown in FIG. In the effect mode A and the effect mode B, some images 9d and 9e of the background image displayed on the effect display device 9 are different.

  In this embodiment, the difference in the effect mode is realized by the difference in the background image. However, the difference in the effect mode is displayed on the difference in the color of the background image in the effect display device 9 or on the effect display device 9. You may implement | achieve by the difference in a character image. In addition, there may be three or more production modes.

  FIG. 31 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a notice effect. In this embodiment, the notice effect is in the process of changing the decorative pattern and before reach is established (before reach) or after reach is established and the reach effect is being executed (after reach), or before reach. And executed after reach.

  FIG. 31 (A1) illustrates a display screen during a notice effect in the form of a notice X (referred to as notice X1) executed before reach, and FIG. 31 (A2) shows a notice X executed after reach. A display screen during a notice effect in the form of (notice X2) is illustrated. As shown in FIGS. 31A1 and 31A2, in the notices X1 and X2, the designs of the character images 9g and 9h are effects with different numbers of trees, that is, a plurality of kinds of effects (in this example, notices X1 and X2). The cherry blossom pattern as a common motif.

  FIG. 31 (B1) illustrates a display screen during a notice effect in the form of a notice Y (predicted Y1) executed before reach, and FIG. 31 (B2) shows a notice Y executed after reach. A display screen during a notice effect in the form of (notice Y2) is illustrated. As shown in FIGS. 31 (B1) and (B2), in the notices Y1 and Y2, the character images 9j and 9k have a double circle shape. In this embodiment, the double round pattern is referred to as an arabesque pattern (a common motif common to effects with different numbers of trees, ie, multiple types of effects (in this example, notices Y1 and Y2)).

  In this embodiment, a common motif is used in a part (a part other than the trunk in this example) of a plurality of types of production bases (in this example, images of one tree or two trees). However, the common motif may be used in all of the bases of the plurality of types of effects (in this example, the portion including the trunk). Furthermore, a common motif is used in the additional effect such that another additional effect is added to the base of the effect (for example, a character image as an additional effect is added to an image of one tree or two trees). Alternatively, a common motif may be used in both the production base and the additional production. Further, the base of the effect is not limited to the character image, but may be an effect of a conversation notice (an effect in which words uttered by characters are displayed in characters) or the like.

  FIG. 31 shows an example in which the notice effect is executed in the state of the effect mode A, but the notice effect may be executed in the state of the effect mode B.

  Further, FIG. 31C illustrates a normal effect. The normal effect is a notice effect different from the notice X and the notice Y, but in the example shown in FIG. 31, the effect using the image 9i with the tree + the predetermined pattern is executed as in the case of the notice X and the notice Y. Is done. However, the predetermined pattern is a leaf pattern.

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 31C, the normal effect is one type (effect using one tree image), but in the same manner as the notice X1, X2 and the notice Y1, Y2. A plurality of types of effects (for example, effects based on one tree image and effects based on two tree images) may be included.

  When executing the notice effect, the effect control microcomputer 100 first displays an image (for example, an image of a tree) on which the cherry blossom pattern, the arabesque pattern, and the leaf image are not displayed on the effect display device 9. The cherry blossom pattern, the arabesque pattern, or the leaf image may be displayed at a predetermined time before the reach or at a predetermined time after the reach. Further, for example, in order to further improve the player's expectation for the appearance of the cherry blossom pattern, first, an effect using a predetermined image (character image or background image) other than the cherry blossom pattern, the arabesque pattern, and the leaf image is executed. A part or all of the common image may be changed to a cherry blossom pattern, an arabesque pattern, or a leaf pattern at a predetermined time before reaching or at a predetermined time after reaching.

  Further, an image having a leaf pattern (may be another character image) is displayed on the effect display device 9 in advance, and a leaf leaf pattern (another character image) at a predetermined time before reaching or at a predetermined time after reaching. If you change the pattern to a cherry pattern as a specific motif or change to an arabesque pattern as a special motif, the player will have higher expectations when the pattern of the image changes to a cherry or arabesque pattern. A feeling can be given.

  FIG. 32 is a flowchart showing the effect control process (step S706) in the main process shown in FIG. In the effect control process, the effect control CPU 101 performs one of steps S800 to S807 according to the value of the effect control process flag. In each process, the following process is executed. In the effect control process, the display state of the effect display device 9 is controlled, and the variable display of the decorative symbol is realized. However, the control related to the variable display of the decorative symbol synchronized with the change of the first special symbol is also the second special symbol. The control related to the variable display of the decorative pattern synchronized with the fluctuation of the image is also executed in one effect control process.

  The decorative display variable display synchronized with the variation of the first special symbol and the decorative display variable display synchronized with the variation of the second special symbol may be executed by separate effect control process processing. Good. In that case, it may be determined which special symbol variation display is being executed, depending on which effect control process processing is performed.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  FIG. 33 is a flowchart showing a variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800) in the effect control process shown in FIG. In the variation pattern command reception waiting process, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the variation pattern command reception flag is set (step S811). If the variation pattern command reception flag is set, the variation pattern command reception flag is reset (step S812). Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the decorative symbol variation start process (step S801) (step S813).

  FIG. 34 is a flowchart showing a decorative symbol variation start process (step S801) in the effect control process shown in FIG. In the decorative symbol variation start process, the effect control CPU 101 decrements the value of the total pending storage number counter by −1 (step S817). Further, the received variation pattern command is read from the variation pattern command storage area, and the display result designation command is read from the display result designation command storage area (step S818).

  Then, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the change pattern command is a change pattern with a pseudo-continuous effect (step S819). When the variation pattern is accompanied by a pseudo-continuous effect, the effect control CPU 101 extracts the temporary stop symbol determination random numbers SR2-1 to 2-3, and determines the temporary stop symbol using the temporary stop number determination random numbers. (Step S820).

  Specifically, the first temporary stop symbol determination random number SR2-1 is used to determine the first temporary stop symbol determination. The first temporary stop symbol determination random number SR2-1 is used to determine the left, middle, and right temporary The left symbol is determined from the stop symbols. Then, the middle right symbol is determined to be one larger than the left symbol.

  Further, when the temporary stop display is performed two or more times, the left symbol of the second middle left and right temporary stop symbols is determined using the second temporary stop symbol determining random number SR2-2. When the temporary stop display is performed three times, the left symbol is determined among the third temporary stop symbols on the left middle right using the third temporary stop symbol determining random number SR2-3.

  In addition, when the received display result designation command indicates a big hit (when the received display result designation command is a display result 2 designation command or a display result 3 designation command), the effect control CPU 101 performs the first temporary Using the stop symbol determination random number SR2-1, the jackpot symbol is determined as a stop symbol (steps S821, S822). Specifically, when the received display result designation command indicates a normal jackpot (when the received display result designation command is a display result 2 designation command), 3 symbols are even symbols (usually normal symbols) A combination of decorative symbols arranged in a stop symbol reminiscent of the occurrence of a big hit is determined. When the received display result designation command indicates a probable big hit (when the received display result designation command is a display result 3 designation command), the production control CPU 101 uses odd symbols (probability variation) as 3 symbols as stop symbols. A combination of decorative symbols arranged in a stop symbol reminiscent of the occurrence of a big hit is determined. Then, control goes to a step S826.

  In the case of detachment, when a reach effect is accompanied, a combination of decorative symbols in which the two left and right symbols are aligned is determined using the first temporary stop symbol determining random number SR2-1 (steps S823 and S824). Then, control goes to a step S826. Whether or not a reach effect is involved can be determined using the received variation pattern command. When the reach effect is not accompanied, first to third temporary stop symbol determination random numbers SR2-1 to SR2-3 are used to determine a combination of decorative symbols in which the left middle right three symbols are not aligned (steps S823 and S825). ). Then, control goes to a step S828.

  As for the decorative symbol, a stop symbol that recalls a big hit is called a big hit symbol. In addition, a stop symbol that recalls a loss is called a loss symbol.

  Further, the effect control CPU 101 stores the data indicating the stop symbol determined in the processes of steps S822, S824, and S825 in the decorative symbol display result storage area of the RAM.

  In step S826, the effect control CPU 101 executes a notice effect determination process. Further, the effect mode change determination process is executed (step S827).

  FIG. 35 is a flowchart showing the notice effect determination process in step S826. In the notice effect determining process, the effect control CPU 101 extracts a notice effect determining random number (see FIG. 29) (step S911). That is, the count value of the counter for generating the random number for determining the notice effect is read. Then, using the value of the random number for determining the notice effect and the notice effect determination table, it is determined whether or not the notice effect is to be executed and the type (notification mode) of the notice effect (step S912). That is, it is determined whether to perform a notice effect with the following specific motif, to perform a notice effect with a special motif, to execute a normal effect, or not to execute a notice effect.

  FIG. 36 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a notice effect determination table. As the notice effect determination table, there are a notice effect determination table used in a normal state (non-probability change state) and a notice effect determination table used in a probability change state. FIG. 36 illustrates a notice effect determination table used in a normal state.

  In the notice effect determination table, the notice value corresponding to the notice mode (notice X and notice Y and the normal effect (see FIG. 31C: described as “leaves” in FIG. 36)) and the notice effect are executed. The determination value corresponding to not performing is set, but the determination value corresponding to not performing the notice effect need not be set.

  In step S912, the effect control CPU 101 selects a notice mode (notice X or notice Y) corresponding to the determination value that matches the value of the random number for determining the notice effect, or selects an effect based on “leaves”. Or decide not to execute the notice effect. The notice X is a notice effect that uses the cherry blossom pattern as a specific motif (which reminds the player of some concept such as a pattern and is a component of the image theme), and the notice Y is an arabesque as a special motif. It is a notice effect that uses the handle.

  As shown in FIG. 36, the notice effect determination table includes a table used in the effect mode A and a table used in the effect mode B. Each table includes a table used when the special symbol display result is a jackpot symbol, and a table used when the special symbol display result is an off symbol.

  In addition, as shown in FIG. 36, the notice effect is more likely to be executed in the case of the big hit than in the case of the loss, but in the effect mode A, the notice effect of the notice X is executed after the reach. Easy to be. That is, the reliability with respect to the jackpot when the notice effect of the notice X is executed after the reach (the ratio at which the notice effect of the notice X is executed when the jackpot is reached, in other words, [the notice of the notice X when the jackpot is reached) The production rate (the application rate)] / [the number of executions of the notice effect of the notice X that is executed regardless of whether or not the jackpot is made] is high (see FIG. 37). The occurrence rate is a rate that takes into account the big hit probability (in this embodiment, 1/300).

  In addition, the performance by “Konoha” is executed at a lower frequency (compared to the notice X and the notice Y) when it is a big hit than when it is out of place. That is, the reliability of the jackpot when the effect by “Konoha” is executed is low.

  Further, in the effect mode B, the reliability for the big hit when the notice effect of the notice X is executed before reach is high (see FIG. 37).

  Further, in each of the effect mode A and the effect mode B, the reliability for the big hit when the notice effect of the notice Y before and after reach is executed is the same (see FIG. 37).

  That is, in this embodiment, the CPU 101 for effect control is controlled to the big hit gaming state when the image of the specific motif (in this example, the cherry blossom pattern) is displayed according to the type of effect mode. In addition to determining whether or not the image of the specific motif should be different, the ratio of determining whether to display the image of the specific motif before reaching the reach state or after reaching the reach state is varied. In addition, it corresponds to one of the conditions of the type of the production mode and whether the execution time of the notice effect is before reach state or whether the execution time of the notice effect is after reach state. When the image of a specific motif (in this example, cherry blossom pattern) is displayed, the ratio controlled to the jackpot gaming state is displayed, and the special motif image (in this example, arabesque pattern) is displayed. What is the above condition (after the effect mode A / reach or before effect mode B / reach in the examples shown in FIG. 36 and FIG. 37) so as to be higher than the ratio controlled to the big hit gaming state at that time? The ratio controlled to the jackpot gaming state when an image of a specific motif corresponding to different conditions (in the example shown in FIG. 36 and FIG. 37, before presentation mode A / reach or after presentation mode B / reach) is displayed. The type of motif is selected so as to be lower than the ratio controlled to the big hit gaming state when the special motif image is displayed.

  In addition, the CPU 101 for effect control has a special motif regardless of the type of effect mode and the display time of at least a part of the preview image before or after reaching the reach state. The image of the special motif is selected so that the ratio controlled to the big hit gaming state when the image (in this example, the arabesque pattern) is displayed is approximately the same.

  If the CPU 101 for effect control determines to execute the notice effect (step S914), the notice control CPU 101 sets a notice flag (step S914). Further, the notice mode is stored in the RAM (step S915). In the process of step S915, the fact that the notice mode (notice X or notice Y) or the normal effect (the effect using “leaves”) is executed is stored, and the data indicating the execution time of the notice effect is also stored in the RAM. To do. Note that the normal performance is executed both before and after reach as an example.

  In addition, when there are a plurality of types of effects (for example, an effect based on an image of one tree (presentation Z1) and an effect based on an image of two trees (presentation Z2)) as the normal effect, a notice effect determination table The determination value according to each production is assigned. For example, a determination value according to the notice Z1 executed before reach and a decision value according to the notice Z2 executed after reach are assigned, and the effect control CPU 101 performs the notice Z1 executed before reach by lottery. Alternatively, the notice Z2 executed after reaching is selected. In addition, a determination value may be assigned to a normal performance that is executed both before and after reach.

  In this embodiment, the effect control means (specifically, the effect control microcomputer) uses the table shown in FIG. 36 to select either before reaching the reach state or after reaching the reach state. On the other hand, the announcement effect using the image of the specific motif (in this example, the image of the cherry blossom pattern) is executed only once, but the image of the specific motif is displayed both before reaching the reach state and after reaching the reach state. The used notice effect may be executed. In addition, there may be a case where a notice effect using an image of a specific motif is executed a plurality of times before reaching a reach state, or a notice effect using an image of a specific motif is executed after becoming a reach state. . However, if it is configured to execute the notice effect using the image of the specific motif only once before reaching the reach state or after reaching the reach state, the effect mode and the effect mode It is possible to obtain an effect that the player is not confused regarding the relationship with the ease of execution of the notice effect according to the game.

  Further, in this embodiment, the random number for determining the notice effect is used to determine whether or not the notice effect is to be executed, and the notice mode and the execution time when it is executed are determined. First, the notice effect is executed. If it is determined whether or not to execute the notice effect, the notice mode and the execution time may be determined using a predetermined random number.

  In addition, FIG. 36 illustrates the notice effect determination table used in the normal state, but the notice effect determination table used in the probability change state is configured similarly to the notice effect determination table used in the normal state. ing. However, in the notice effect determination table used in the probability change state, the table used in the big hit is the number of determination values in the notice effect determination table used in the normal state (corresponding to each execution time of the notice X and notice Y The judgment value of about 1/10 of the number of judgment values to be set) is set. In the probability variation state, the probability determined to be a big hit compared to the normal state is 10 times (see FIG. 8), so the reliability of the notice effect in the probability variation state is almost equal to the value shown in FIG. equal.

  FIG. 38 is a flowchart showing the effect mode change determination process in step S827. In the effect mode change determination process, the effect control CPU 101 extracts an effect mode change determination random number (step S921). That is, the count value of the counter for generating the production mode change determination random number is read. Then, it is determined whether to change the effect mode using the effect mode change determination table (step S922).

  FIG. 39 is an explanatory diagram of an example of the effect mode change determination table. In the effect mode change determination table, a determination value corresponding to changing the effect mode and a determination value corresponding to not changing the effect mode are set. However, only the determination value corresponding to changing the effect mode may be set in the effect mode change determination table.

  When it is determined that the effect mode is to be changed (step S923), the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the notice flag is set (step S924). When the notice flag is not set, the process proceeds to step S926. When the notice flag is set (when it is determined that the notice effect is executed before reach or after reach), it is confirmed whether or not the start time of the notice effect is before reach (step S925). . If it is before reach, the process ends. Whether or not the start time of the notice effect is before reach is confirmed by the data (data indicating the execution time of the notice effect) stored in the RAM in step S915.

  When the start time of the notice effect is not before reach, a value corresponding to the time until the change time is set in the change start timer (step S926). In this embodiment, as an example, the change time is set to reach establishment. The time until the reach is established is confirmed by the received variation pattern command. That is, since the time from the start of the change to reach establishment is determined according to the change pattern, the time until reach reach can be determined based on the change pattern command.

  In this embodiment, when a notice effect (particularly a notice effect using an image of a specific motif) is executed before reach, the effect mode is not changed, and when a notice effect is executed after reach. Because the mode can be changed, when switching the production mode type during execution of variable display of identification information, the display time of the image of the specific motif is later than the time when the production mode type is switched. Will be determined.

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 34, the effect control CPU 101 executes the effect mode change determination process in step S827 after executing the notice effect determination process in step S826. The notice effect determining process may be executed after executing. In that case, a notice effect mode determination table used when the effect mode is changed in the effect mode change determination process, and a notice effect mode determination table used when the effect mode is not changed in the effect mode change determination process. In the notice effect mode determination table used when the effect mode is changed, the determination value corresponding to executing the notice effect using the image of the specific motif before reach is not assigned. In addition, when the announcement mode change determination process is executed after the effect mode change decision process is executed, if the effect mode is changed in the effect mode change decision process, the image of the specific motif is used before the reach in the announcement effect decision process. (For example, if it is decided by lottery to execute the notice effect using the image of the specific motif before reaching, the notice effect using the image of the specified motif after reaching is used.) Change to run.)

  In this embodiment, the change time of the production mode is set as the reach establishment time, but the change time of the production mode may be set to another time. For example, it may be performed before reaching or after reaching. Even in such a case, it is a condition that the display time of the image of the specific motif is a time point after the time point when the type of effect mode is switched.

  Also, in this embodiment, when the type of effect mode is switched during execution of variable display of identification information, an image of a specific motif (in this example, a cherry pattern) and an image of a special motif (in this example) , Arabesque pattern) is displayed at a later time than when the direction mode is switched, but the special motif image (in this example, arabesque pattern) is subject to such control. May be excluded.

  Further, in this embodiment, the effect control means produces the effect by lottery at a predetermined time (in this example, at the start of variation of the decorative symbols) regardless of the game state (for example, the normal state, the probability change state, the short time state). Whether or not to change the mode is determined, but the effect mode may be determined according to the gaming state (for example, effect mode A and effect mode B in the short time state). In addition, the effect mode may be such that part or all of the effects in the effects (for example, the effect mode A and the effect mode B) performed in one game state (for example, the short time state) are different.

  As shown in FIG. 34, in the decorative symbol variation starting process, when the notice flag is set (step S828), the effect control CPU 101 resets the notice flag (step S829) and is determined as the variation pattern. A process table corresponding to the type of notice effect that is present is selected (step S830), and the process proceeds to step S832. The notice flag is set when it is decided to execute the notice effect in the notice effect determining process. The type of the notice effect is also determined by the notice effect determination process.

  When the notice flag is not set, the effect control CPU 101 selects a process table corresponding to the variation pattern (step S832). Then, the process timer in the process data 1 of the selected process table is started (step S833).

  FIG. 40 is an explanatory diagram of a configuration example of the process table. The process table is a table in which process data referred to when the effect control CPU 101 executes control of the effect device is set. That is, the effect control CPU 101 controls effect devices (effect components) such as the effect display device 9 according to the process data set in the process table. The process table includes data in which a plurality of combinations of process timer set values, display control execution data, lamp control execution data, and sound number data are collected. The display control execution data includes data indicating each variation mode constituting the variation mode during the variable display time (variation time) of the variable display of the decorative symbols. Specifically, data relating to the change of the display screen of the effect display device 9 is described. The process timer set value is set with a change time in the form of the change. The effect control CPU 101 refers to the process table and performs control to display the decorative pattern in the variation mode set in the display control execution data for the time set in the process timer set value.

  The process table shown in FIG. 40 is stored in the ROM of the effect control board 80. A process table is prepared for each variation pattern.

  FIG. 41 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the effects executed according to the contents of the process table. As shown in FIG. 41, the effect control CPU 101 executes effect control according to the process data (effect control execution data) in the process table. That is, when the time according to the timer value set in the process timer set value has elapsed, according to the next effect control execution data in the process table, by repeating the process of controlling the light emitters such as the effect display device 9 and the LED, An effect such as a background during the change of a decorative pattern is realized.

  In this embodiment, the image data related to the variation of the decorative design is not set in the process table. The variation of the decorative pattern itself is directly controlled by the effect control CPU 101 without using the process table.

  The production control CPU 101 performs the production device (the production display device 9 as the production component, various lamps as the production component) according to the contents of the process data 1 (display control execution data 1, lamp control execution data 1, sound number data 1). And the control of the speaker 27) as a production component is executed (step S833). For example, a command is output to the VDP 109 in order to display an image according to the variation pattern on the effect display device 9. In addition, a control signal (lamp control execution data) is output to the lamp driver board 35 in order to perform on / off control of various lamps. In addition, a control signal (sound number data) is output to the sound output board 70 in order to output sound from the speaker 27.

  In this embodiment, the effect control CPU 101 performs control so that the decorative pattern is variably displayed by the change pattern corresponding to the change pattern command on a one-to-one basis, but the effect control CPU 101 controls the change pattern command. The variation pattern to be used may be selected from a plurality of types of variation patterns corresponding to.

  Then, a value corresponding to the variation time specified by the variation pattern command is set in the variation time timer (step S834). Further, a predetermined time is set in the fluctuation control timer (step S835).

  Note that the predetermined time is, for example, 30 ms, and the presentation control CPU 101 writes image data indicating the display state of the left, middle, and right decorative patterns to the VRAM every time the predetermined time elapses, and image data in which the VDP 109 is written to the VRAM. Is output to the effect display device 9, and the effect display device 9 displays an image according to the signal, whereby the variation of the decorative design is realized.

  Further, when writing the image data in a predetermined area of the VRAM, the effect control CPU 101 actually performs control to write the image data into the VRAM by, for example, a V blank interrupt process based on the V blank interrupt. Therefore, the effect control CPU 101 temporarily stores data to be written to the VRAM in a predetermined area of the RAM, and performs control to write the data in the predetermined area of the RAM to the VRAM by the V blank interrupt process. The V blank interrupt is an interrupt generated by the VDP 109 in the same cycle as the cycle of the vertical synchronization signal supplied to the effect display device 9. For example, when the screen change frequency (frame frequency) of the effect display device 9 is 30 Hz, the generation period of the V blank interruption is 33.3 ms, and when the frame frequency is 60 Hz, the occurrence of the V blank interruption is generated. The period is 16.7 ms. In this example, data is written to the VRAM by the V blank interrupt processing, but data may be written to the VRAM in other processing. Other processes are, for example, a timer interrupt based on a timer built in for production control, or a decorative symbol changing process. In addition, when the process which writes data in VRAM in other processes is performed, it is preferable to perform the process for synchronizing with an execution period and the period of V blank interruption regularly, for example.

  Then, the effect control CPU 101 sets the value of the effect control process flag to a value corresponding to the decorative symbol changing process (step S802) (step S836).

  FIG. 42 is a flowchart showing the decorative symbol variation process (step S802) in the effect control process. In the decorative symbol variation process, the effect control CPU 101 decrements the values of the process timer, variation time timer, and variation control timer by 1 (steps S840A, S840B, and S840C). If the change start timer is operating, the value of the change start timer is decremented by 1 (step S840D). Whether or not the change start timer is in operation is confirmed by, for example, setting the operating flag in the process of step S926 and determining whether or not the operating flag is set.

  The effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the change start timer has timed out (step S840E). However, the process of step S840E is executed when the change start timer is operating.

  When the change start timer times out, the effect control CPU 101 changes the effect mode (step S840F). That is, when the mode is the production mode A (see FIG. 31A), the mode is switched to the production mode B, and when the mode is the production mode B (see FIG. 31B), the mode is switched to the production mode A. The effect control CPU 101 stores data indicating the effect mode after switching in the RAM.

  Further, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the process timer has timed out (step S841). If the process timer has timed out, the process data is switched (step S842). That is, the process timer is started again by setting the process timer set value set next in the process table in the process timer (step S843). Further, the control state for the effect device (effect parts) is changed based on the display control execution data, lamp control execution data, and sound number data set next (step S844).

  If the variation control timer has timed out (step S845), the effect control CPU 101 displays the next display screen of the left, middle and right decorative symbols (displayed 30 ms after the previous decorative symbol display switching time). Image data of a power screen is created and written in a predetermined area of the VRAM (step S846). In this way, the effect control device 9 implements decorative pattern variation control. The VDP 109 outputs a signal based on data obtained by superimposing image data of a predetermined area and image data based on display control execution data set in the process table to the effect display device 9. As such, the effect control device 9 displays the background image, the character image, and the decorative design in the decorative design variation. Further, a predetermined value (for example, a value corresponding to 30 ms) is reset in the variation control timer (step S847).

  In addition, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the variable time timer has timed out (step S848). When the variation time timer has timed out, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the decorative symbol variation stop process (step S803) (step S850). Even if the variable time timer has not timed out, if the confirmation command reception flag indicating that the symbol confirmation designation command has been received is set (step S849), the effect control CPU 101 executes the process of step S850.

  FIG. 43 is a flowchart showing a decoration symbol variation stop process (step S803) in the effect control process shown in FIG. In the decorative symbol variation stopping process, the effect control CPU 101 first performs control for deriving and displaying the stopped symbol in accordance with the data (data indicating the stopped symbol) stored in the decorative symbol display result storage area (step S881).

  Next, the production control CPU 101 confirms whether or not it is decided to make a big hit (step S882). Whether or not it is decided to win is confirmed by, for example, a display result designation command stored in the display result designation command storage area. In this embodiment, it can be confirmed whether or not it is determined to be a big hit based on the determined stop symbol.

  If it is determined to be a big hit, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the big hit display process (step S804) (step S883).

  When it is determined not to win, the effect control CPU 101 updates the value of the effect control process flag to a value corresponding to the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800) (step S884).

  As described above, the effect control microcomputer 100 sets the image of the specific motif so that the ratio controlled to the specific game state when the image of the specific motif is displayed depends on the type of the effect mode. As well as the decision rate of whether to display the image of the specific motif before reaching or after reaching the reach state, so depending on the progress of the game and the production mode Thus, the reliability can be made different, and the player can be given a sense of expectation according to the progress of the game and the production mode.

  In the above-described embodiment, the game control microcomputer 560 directly transmits a command to the effect control microcomputer 100. However, the game control microcomputer 560 transmits another command (for example, FIG. 3). The sound output board 70 and the lamp driver board 35 shown in FIG. 5 or the sound / lamp board having the function of the circuit mounted on the sound output board 70 and the function of the circuit mounted on the lamp driver board 35). A control command may be transmitted and transmitted to the effect control microcomputer 100 on the effect control board 80 via another board. In that case, the command may simply pass through another board, or the sound output board 70, the lamp driver board 35, and the sound / lamp board are equipped with control means such as a microcomputer, and the control means receives the command. In response to this, control related to sound control and lamp control is executed, and the received command is changed as it is or, for example, to a simplified command to control the effect display device 9. You may make it transmit to. Even in that case, the effect control microcomputer 100 performs the display control in accordance with the effect control command directly received from the game control microcomputer 560 in the above-described embodiment. Display control can be performed in accordance with commands received from the board 35 or the sound / lamp board.

  The present invention is provided with variable display means for variably displaying a plurality of types of identification information that can be distinguished from each other, and when the display result of the identification information derived and displayed on the variable display means is a predetermined specific display result. The present invention can be applied to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine that is controlled to a specific gaming state advantageous to the player.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Pachinko machine 8a 1st special symbol display device 8b 2nd special symbol display device 9 Production display device 13 1st starting winning port 14 2nd starting winning port 20 Special variable winning ball device 31 Game control board (main board)
56 CPU
80 Production control board 100 Production control microcomputer 101 Production control CPU
560 Microcomputer for game control

Claims (1)

A gaming machine that executes variable display and controls it to an advantageous state advantageous to the player,
There are productions according to multiple types of production modes as productions to be executed,
Pre-decision means for deciding whether to control to the advantageous state before the display result is derived and displayed;
Before the variable display state reaches the reach state or after the reach state, the notice effect executing means for executing a notice effect for notifying the possibility of being controlled to the advantageous state by displaying a predetermined notice image;
Color determination means for determining whether or not at least a part of the predetermined notice image is an image of a specific color;
Whether or not the color determination means sets the image of the specific color so that the ratio controlled to the advantageous state when the image of the specific color is displayed differs according to the type of the effect mode. And determining that the display timing of the image of the specific color is different between before reaching the reach state and after reaching the reach state.

Images