JP2016120109A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To reduce a burden on presentation control means in a game machine allowing a setting change of a presentation control.SOLUTION: A presentation control part 300 and an image/sound control part 310 receive a first setting instruction for instructing a setting regarding a performance mode of a presentation and a second setting instruction for instructing a setting regarding a control of a presentation to be performed, the instructions being inputted by operation of a presentation button and a key by a player. The image/sound control part 310 changes a setting of a presentation performance mode on the basis of the first setting instruction, and performs the presentation according to the changed setting. The presentation control part 300 changes a setting of a presentation control on the basis of the second setting instruction, and performs a control of the presentation to be performed according to the changed setting.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 35

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine that performs an effect by displaying an image on an image display accompanying a game.

  In the gaming machine, by satisfying various preset conditions, the gaming machine shifts to various gaming states and enhances gaming properties. For example, when a game ball wins a start opening, a lottery (a jackpot lottery or a special symbol lottery) is performed as to whether or not to execute a jackpot game that opens and closes a variable winning opening. Then, according to the result of the lottery, the winning probability when the lottery is performed next varies (probability variation). The lottery result is notified to the player by a special symbol. The special symbol stops at the symbol representing the lottery result based on the lottery result. And according to the result of the lottery, the variation time of the special symbol when the lottery is performed next is changed.

  In addition, in this type of gaming machine, the game state and the progress of the game are achieved by means such as displaying an image on an image display device such as a liquid crystal display, operating a movable accessory, lighting various electric lamps, and outputting sound by a speaker. Production is performed according to.

  Further, among gaming machines that produce effects according to the gaming state and the progress of the game, there are those that can select an effect to be performed in a specific scene by setting. For example, by varying at least one of a plurality of types of effect pattern data groups and a plurality of types of display control programs, a plurality of types of games with different game contents are included in the variable display game, and from among a plurality of types of games The player sets a desired game, and the display control means controls the variable display device based on the production pattern data group corresponding to the information related to the set game, so that the player can play various games. There is a gaming machine as described above (for example, see Patent Document 1).

  As another conventional technique, there are a plurality of types of game contents with different effect displays regarding display games, and there is a gaming machine in which any game contents are first set by the setting means before the execution of the display game is started. . In this gaming machine, when the display game is started, the display control means controls the execution of the display game based on the game contents set by the setting means. The display means is set by the changing means during the execution of the display game. The effect display based on the game content set by the means is changed to the effect display based on other game content (see, for example, Patent Document 2).

JP 2004-275445 A JP 2006-212097 A

  In a gaming machine capable of changing the setting of production control, such as preparing multiple productions to be performed in a specific scene and making it selectable, managing all production based on the settings and controlling the execution of production The load on the processing of the production control means was large.

  In view of such problems, an object of the present invention is to reduce the burden on the effect control means in a gaming machine capable of changing the setting of effect control.

The present invention that achieves the above object is realized as the following gaming machine. This gaming machine
Game control means (200) for acquiring game information in response to establishment of the start condition and performing game control based on the game information;
Effect control means (300) for controlling execution of a game effect according to the progress of the game based on information relating to game control of the game control means (200),
An effect execution means (310) for executing an effect using an effect member based on the control of the effect by the effect control means (300),
Production setting accepting means (161, 162, 310) for accepting a first setting instruction for instructing a setting relating to the execution mode of the effect and a second setting instruction for instructing a setting relating to the control of the effect to be executed,
The production execution means (310)
When the first setting instruction is received by the effect setting receiving means (161, 162, 310), the setting of the execution mode of the effect is changed based on the first setting instruction, and the effect is set according to the changed setting. Run
The production control means (300)
When the second setting instruction is received by the effect setting receiving means (161, 162, 310), the setting of the effect control is changed based on the second setting instruction, and the effect executed according to the changed setting To control,
It is characterized by.
By adopting such a configuration, it is possible to change the effect by switching the effect image and the output sound by setting the effect execution means (310), so that the burden on the effect control unit 300 can be reduced. Become.

  In addition, the said code | symbol in this column is attached | subjected illustratively in the description of this invention, and this invention is not reduced by this code | symbol.

  According to the present invention, in a gaming machine capable of changing the setting of effect control, the burden on the effect control means can be reduced.

It is a schematic front view of the pachinko gaming machine according to the present embodiment. (A) is an enlarged view showing an example of a display device arranged at the lower right of the game board, (b) is a partial plan view of the pachinko gaming machine. It is a figure which shows the internal structure of the control unit of the pachinko game machine of this Embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the function structure of the game control part of this Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the main operation | movement of the game control part of this Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the content of a start port switch process. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the gate switch process. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the special symbol process. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the jackpot determination process. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the fluctuation pattern selection process. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the process during a stop. It is a flowchart which shows the content of a customer waiting | standby setting process. It is a flowchart which shows the content of normal symbol processing. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the big prize opening process. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the game state setting process. It is a flowchart which shows the content of an electric tulip process. It is a figure which shows the structural example of the random number used by this Embodiment, (a) is a figure which shows the structural example of a jackpot random number, (b) is a figure which shows the structural example of a jackpot symbol random number, (c) is a reach random number FIG. 6D is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of a hit random number. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of an effect control part, (a) is a figure which shows a main process, (b) is a figure which shows an interruption process. It is a flowchart which shows the content of command reception processing. It is a figure which shows the example of a setting of a mode flag. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the production | presentation selection process of FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the process during the end of the fluctuation effect of FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the win production | presentation selection process of FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the ending effect selection process of FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the customer waiting command reception process of FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the content of effect button processing. It is a figure which shows the structure of a sub control means. It is a figure explaining the change of the execution mode of the production | presentation by an image / sound control part. It is a figure explaining the change of the determination content of the production by the production control unit. It is a figure which shows the structural example of a menu screen. It is a figure which shows the structural example of a password input screen. It is a figure which shows the structural example of a customization screen. It is a figure which shows the alerting | reporting example of the information regarding production customization. It is a figure which shows the other alerting | reporting example of the information regarding presentation customization. It is a figure explaining the control method of the effect customization by an effect control part and an image / sound control part.

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.
[Basic configuration of gaming machine]
FIG. 1 is a schematic front view of a pachinko gaming machine 100 according to the present embodiment.
A pachinko gaming machine 100 as an example of the gaming machine shown in the figure is configured to pay out a prize ball when a game ball launched by an instruction operation by a player wins. The pachinko gaming machine 100 includes a game board 110 on which game balls are launched, and a frame member 150 that surrounds the game board 110. The game board 110 is detachably attached to the frame member 150.

The game board 110 has a game area 111 for playing with a game ball on the front surface, a rail member 112 that forms a passage where a game ball launched from below rises toward the upper position of the game area 111, and a game A guide member 113 for guiding the game ball is provided on the right side of the region 111.
In the present embodiment, an image display unit 114 that displays various images for production is provided at a position of the game area 111 that is easily visible to the player. The image display unit 114 includes a display screen such as a liquid crystal display, and displays a decorative symbol for notifying the player of a symbol lottery result (symbol variation result), for example, as the game progresses by the player. An effect image by the appearance of a character or the appearance of an item is displayed.
In addition, a movable accessory 115 and a board lamp 116 used for various effects are provided on the front surface of the game board 110. The movable accessory 115 performs various effects by operating on the game board 110, and the board lamp 116 performs various effects by emitting light.

  The game area 111 is provided with a game nail and a windmill (not shown) for changing the direction in which the game ball falls. Further, in the game area 111, various bonuses relating to winning and lottery are arranged at predetermined positions. In addition, the game area 111 is provided with a discharge port 117 through which game balls launched into the game area 111 that have not been won in the winning area are discharged out of the game area 111.

  In the present embodiment, as various functions related to winning and lottery, a special symbol lottery (a jackpot lottery) starts when a game ball wins, and it is normal when a game ball passes. A start gate (hereinafter simply referred to as a gate) 124 for starting a symbol lottery (open / close lottery) is disposed on the game board 110. In FIG. 1, the gates 124 are provided on the left and right sides of the game area 111, the left gate 124 is indicated as 124L, and the right gate 124 is indicated as 124R. Moreover, the 1st starting port 121 and the 2nd starting port 122 here say the winning opening used as the operation opportunity of the predetermined 1 special symbol display. Specifically, the first start port 121 and the second start port 122 are provided with switches (a first start port switch 211 and a second start port switch 212 described later) that detect the passage of a game ball when winning a prize. It has been. And when a game ball wins the 1st starting port 121 or the 2nd starting port 122, this switch will detect the passage of a gaming ball as an opportunity to operate a special symbol display.

  The second start port 122 includes an electric tulip (opening / closing member) 123 as a normal electric accessory that is turned on and off by a pair of blades in the shape of tulip flowers that are opened and closed by an electric solenoid. In the electric tulip 123, when the blade is closed, it is difficult for the game ball to enter the second start port 122, but when the blade is opened, the entrance of the second start port 122 is expanded and the game ball is moved to the second start port 122. It is configured to be easy to enter. When the electric tulip 123 wins the normal symbol lottery, the blade opens for a specified time (for example, 0.15 to 1.8 seconds) and for a specified number of times (for example, 1 to 3 times) while lighting or blinking.

  It has a low probability state in which a jackpot lottery is performed with a normal probability and a high probability state in which a jackpot lottery is performed with a higher probability than the low probability state. It should be noted that the state is controlled to be either a low probability state or a high probability state under a predetermined condition. Further, the pachinko gaming machine 100 has a short time state where there are few winning opportunities at the second start port 122 and a short state when there are more winning opportunities at the second start port 122 than in the short time state. Note that, in a predetermined condition, the state is controlled to be either a timeless state or a timeless state. Here, the short-time state means, for example, any one or all of the following: increasing the probability of winning the normal symbol lottery, decreasing the normal symbol variation time, or extending the opening time of the electric tulip 123 Controlled by combination. In the short time state, the special symbol variation time of the special symbol may be shortened.

Also, in this embodiment, as other prizes and lottery items, a lottery is performed even if a game ball wins a grand prize opening 125 as a special electric bonus that opens according to the result of the special symbol lottery. An ordinary winning opening 126 that is not present is arranged on the game board 110.
In the present embodiment, a display 130 for displaying a lottery result and the number of holds is arranged at the lower right position of the game board 110.

  Also, on the back side of the game board 110, a game control board that determines whether or not a special symbol is won, an effect control board that comprehensively controls effects, an image control board that controls effects by images and sounds, various lamps, Various substrates (not shown) such as a lamp control substrate for controlling the effect by the movable accessory 115 are attached. In addition, a switching power supply (not shown) that converts the supplied 24V AC power source into a DC power source and outputs it to various boards and the like is disposed on the back surface of the game board 110.

When the player touches the handle 151 and rotates the lever 152 in the clockwise direction, the frame member 150 moves the game balls at a predetermined time interval (for example, 100 per minute) with a hitting force according to the operation angle. And a launching device (not shown) for electrically firing. In addition, the frame member 150 includes a supply device (not shown) that sequentially supplies game balls to the launching device one by one at a timing interlocked with the operation of the player's lever 152, and a game ball that the supply device supplies to the launching device. And a plate 153 for temporarily storing. For example, a payout ball by a payout unit is paid out to the plate 153.
In the present embodiment, the plate 153 is configured as an integrated upper and lower plate, but a configuration example in which the upper plate and the lower plate are separated is also conceivable. A configuration example in which the handle 151 of the launching device emits light under a predetermined condition is also conceivable.

The frame member 150 also includes a stop button 154 for temporarily stopping the launch of the game ball even when the player is touching the handle 151 of the launch device, and a game ball stored in the tray 153. A take-out button 155 for dropping and taking out the box (not shown).
Further, the frame member 150 includes a speaker 156 and a frame lamp 157 for notifying the gaming state and situation of the pachinko gaming machine 100 and performing various effects. The speaker 156 performs various effects using music, voice, and sound effects. The frame lamp 157 is composed of a light emitting body such as an LED, and performs various effects by light depending on a pattern due to lighting and blinking, a difference in emission color, and the like. In addition, about the frame lamp | ramp 157, the structural example which enables it to perform the effect which changes the irradiation direction of light can be considered.
The frame member 150 also includes a transparent plate (not shown) for separating the game board 110 from the player.

FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining the pachinko gaming machine 100 according to the present embodiment, and FIG. 2A is an enlarged view showing an example of a display 130 arranged at the lower right of the game board 110. b) is a partial plan view of the pachinko gaming machine 100. FIG.
As shown in FIG. 2A, the display 130 of the pachinko gaming machine 100 includes a first special symbol display 221 that operates in response to winning of the first starting port 121 and a winning of the second starting port 122. The second special symbol display 222 that operates in response to the above and the normal symbol display 223 that operates in response to the passage of the gate 124 are provided. The first special symbol display unit 221 displays the lottery result after stopping displaying the special symbol based on the winning of the first start port 121 after variably displaying. The second special symbol display 222 displays the lottery result after the special symbol is variably displayed on the basis of the winning of the second start port 122 after being variably displayed. Based on the fact that the game ball has passed through the gate 124, the normal symbol display unit 223 displays the lottery result by stopping the normal symbol after the normal symbol is variably displayed. In the present embodiment, the first special symbol display 221 and the second special symbol display 222 are each constituted by a display device in which LEDs are arranged, and the lottery result of the special symbol lottery is displayed according to the lighting mode. Similarly, the normal symbol display 223 is also composed of a display device in which LEDs are arranged, and the lottery result of the normal symbol lottery is displayed according to the lighting mode.

  In addition, the indicator 130 operates in response to the hold in the first special symbol display 221 and the first special symbol hold indicator 218 that operates corresponding to the hold in the first special symbol display 221 and the second special symbol display 222. 2 a special symbol hold indicator 219 and a normal symbol hold indicator 220 that operates in response to the hold in the normal symbol indicator 223. In the present embodiment, the first special symbol hold indicator 218, the second special symbol hold indicator 219, and the normal symbol hold indicator 220 are each configured by a display device in which LEDs are arranged, and the number of holds is determined depending on the lighting mode. Is displayed.

  Here, the hold will be described. If a game ball wins in the first start port 121 or the second start port 122 during the special symbol change display operation (while the change display for one win is being performed), the special symbol is changing. In addition, the special symbol variation display operation based on the subsequent winning cannot be started. Therefore, the number of subsequent winnings is memorized up to a specified number (for example, 4), and the right to start a special symbol for the winning game ball is until the variable display operation for the previously winning game ball ends. Deferred. For normal symbols, the same processing as for special symbols is performed. The fact that such a hold has been made and the number of hold (unchanged number) are displayed on the first special symbol hold indicator 218, the second special symbol hold indicator 219 and the normal symbol hold indicator 220.

  Furthermore, the display device 130 includes a state display device 224 that displays the state of the pachinko gaming machine 100. In the present embodiment, the status indicator 224 is configured by a display device in which two LEDs are arranged. One of the two LEDs notifies whether or not the state of the pachinko gaming machine 100 is in a high probability state in which the winning probability of the special symbol lottery is high. The other one is to notify by lighting whether or not the state of the pachinko gaming machine 100 is in a short time state in which it is easy to win the second starting port 122. In addition, the status indicator 224 is further provided with an LED, and by lighting it to the right (by changing the hitting force of the game ball), it is possible to notify by lighting whether or not the player is in an advantageous state. good.

  The frame member 150 of the pachinko gaming machine 100 includes an input device (device) for a player to input an effect. As shown in FIG. 2B, in the present embodiment, as an example of an input device, an effect button 161 and an effect key 162 composed of a plurality of keys adjacent to the effect button 161 and arranged in a substantially cross shape are provided. Are disposed on the frame member 150. In the illustrated example, the player can instruct one of a plurality of images displayed on the image display unit 114 by operating an effect key 162 including four keys arranged in a cross, for example. It is possible to select the designated image by operating the effect button 161. As the form of the input device, various forms such as a lever, a dial, a touch panel, and a motion sensor can be adopted in addition to the effect button 161 and the effect key 162 shown in the figure. Hereinafter, these input devices may be referred to as effect buttons 161 or the like without particular distinction.

[Configuration of control unit]
Next, a control unit that performs operation control and signal processing in the pachinko gaming machine 100 will be described.
FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of the control unit. As shown in the figure, the control unit is provided with a game control unit 200 that determines whether or not a special symbol has been won as main control means. Further, as sub-control means, an effect control unit 300 that comprehensively controls effects, an image / sound control unit 310 that controls effects using images and sound, and effects using various lamps and movable accessories 115 A ramp control unit 320 for controlling the payout, and a payout control unit 400 for performing payout control of the payout ball.

  As described above, the game control unit 200, the effect control unit 300, the image / sound control unit 310, the lamp control unit 320, and the payout control unit 400 are each a game as a main board disposed on the rear surface of the game board 110. The control board, the effect control board as the sub board, the image control board, the lamp control board, and the payout control board are individually configured.

[Configuration and function of game control unit]
The game control unit 200 is used as a CPU 201 that performs arithmetic processing when determining whether or not a special symbol is won, a ROM 202 that stores programs executed by the CPU 201, various data, and the like, a working memory of the CPU 201, and the like. RAM 203 to be provided.
When the game ball wins the first start port 121 or the second start port 122, the game control unit 200 performs a special symbol lottery and sends the lottery result to the effect control unit 300. In addition, the change information of the high probability state and the low probability state and the change information of the short time state and the short time state are sent to the effect control unit 300.
Further, the game control unit 200 performs control to increase the probability of winning the normal symbol lottery, shorten the normal symbol variation time, or extend the opening time of the electric tulip 123. In addition, the game control unit 200 holds up to the limit number (for example, four) of the unchangeable amount when the game ball continuously wins the first start port 121 or the second start port 122, or the game ball continues. Thus, the suspension is set up to the limit number (for example, 4) of the unchangeable amount when passing through the gate 124.
Furthermore, the game control unit 200 opens until the special winning opening 125, which is a special electric accessory, satisfies a predetermined condition (for example, 29.5 seconds have passed or 10 game balls have been won) according to the result of the special symbol lottery. Control is performed so that the round in which the state is maintained is repeated a predetermined number of times. Furthermore, the opening / closing operation interval when the special winning opening 125 is opened is controlled.

Further, when the game ball is won in the first start port 121, the second start port 122, the big winning port 125, and the normal winning port 126, the game control unit 200 per game ball according to the place where the game ball has won. The payout control unit 400 is instructed to pay out a predetermined number of prize balls. For example, when a game ball wins at the first start port 121, three prize balls, when a game ball wins at the second start port 122, four prize balls, and when a game ball wins the big prize port 125, thirteen prizes. When a game ball wins the ball, the normal winning opening 126, an instruction command (command) is sent to the payout control unit 400 so as to pay out 10 prize balls. Even if it is detected that the game ball has passed through the gate 124, the payout control unit 400 is not instructed to pay out the prize ball in conjunction therewith.
When the payout control unit 400 pays out a prize ball in accordance with an instruction from the game control unit 200, the game control unit 200 acquires information on the number of prize balls paid out from the payout control unit 400. As a result, the number of prize balls paid out is managed.

As shown in FIG. 3, the game control unit 200 includes a first start port detection unit (first start port switch (SW)) 211 that detects a winning of a game ball to the first start port 121, and a second start. A second start port detection unit (second start port switch (SW)) 212 that detects a winning of a game ball to the mouth 122, an electric tulip opening / closing unit 213 that opens and closes the electric tulip 123, and a game ball to the gate 124 A gate detection unit (gate switch (SW)) 214 that detects passage is connected.
Further, the game control unit 200 has a large winning port detecting unit (large winning port switch (SW)) 215 for detecting a winning of a game ball to the large winning port 125, and the large winning port 125 is inclined to be in a closed state. A large winning opening / closing unit 216 set to the open state and a normal winning opening detecting unit (normal winning opening switch (SW)) 217 for detecting the winning of a game ball to the normal winning opening 126 are connected.

In addition, the game control unit 200 includes a first special symbol hold indicator 218 that displays the number of unreserved reserves that have been won to the first start port 121 during the change of the special symbol within a limit number (for example, four). , A second special symbol hold indicator 219 that displays within the limit the number of non-changed reserves won to the second starting port 122 during the change of the special symbol, and the non-changed display that has passed through the gate 124 during the change of the normal symbol A normal symbol hold indicator 220 for displaying the fluctuation hold amount within the limit number is connected.
Further, the game control unit 200 includes a first special symbol display 221 for displaying a special symbol variation display and a special symbol lottery result performed by winning a game ball in the first starting port 121, and a second starting port. A second special symbol display 222 that displays the result of the special symbol variation display and special symbol lottery performed by winning the game ball to 122, and the normal symbol display that displays the normal symbol variation display and the normal symbol lottery result A device 223 and a state indicator 224 for displaying the state of the pachinko gaming machine 100 are connected.

  Then, detection signals detected by the first start port switch 211, the second start port switch 212, the gate switch 214, the big winning port switch 215 and the normal winning port switch 217 are sent to the game control unit 200. In addition, the control signal from the game control unit 200 includes an electric tulip opening / closing unit 213, a prize winning opening / closing unit 216, a first special symbol hold indicator 218, a second special symbol hold indicator 219, a normal symbol hold indicator 220, It is sent to the first special symbol display 221, the second special symbol display 222, the normal symbol display 223, and the status display 224. Thereby, the game control unit 200 performs various controls related to the number of payout prize balls.

  Further, a board external information terminal board 250 that transmits various kinds of information to a host computer (not shown) installed in the hall is connected to the game control unit 200. Then, the game control unit 200 transmits information about the number of paid-out prize balls, information indicating the state of the game control unit 200, and the like acquired from the payout control unit 400 to the host computer via the board external information terminal board 250. To do.

[Configuration and function of production control unit]
The effect control unit 300 includes a CPU 301 that performs arithmetic processing for controlling effects, a ROM 302 that stores programs executed by the CPU 301 and various data, a RAM 303 that is used as a work memory of the CPU 301, and the like. And a real-time clock (RTC) 304 for measuring.
The effect control unit 300 sets the contents of the effect, for example, based on the determination result of whether or not the winning in the special symbol lottery sent from the game control unit 200 and the variation pattern. At that time, in response to an operation input from the user using the effect button 161 or the effect key 162, the effect content corresponding to the operation input may be set. In this case, for example, a signal (operation signal) corresponding to an operation is received from a controller (not shown) such as the effect button 161, and the operation content identified by the operation signal is reflected in the setting of the effect.
In addition, when the game is interrupted for a predetermined period, the effect control unit 300 instructs the setting of the screen display for waiting for a customer as one of the effects.
Furthermore, the production control unit 300 sets the production content based on the change information of the high probability state and the low probability state received from the game control unit 200, and the change information of the short time state and the short time state.
Further, the effect control unit 300 sends a command for instructing execution of the set effect contents to the image / sound control unit 310 and the lamp control unit 320.

[Configuration / Function of Image / Sound Control Unit]
The image / sound control unit 310 includes a CPU 311 that performs arithmetic processing when controlling the image and sound representing the content of the effect, a ROM 312 that stores programs executed by the CPU 311, various data, and the like. And a RAM 313 used as a memory or the like.
Then, the image / sound control unit 310 controls the image displayed on the image display unit 114 and the sound output from the speaker 156 based on the command sent from the effect control unit 300.
Specifically, in the ROM 312 of the image / sound control unit 310, a symbol image or background image displayed during the game on the image display unit 114, a decorative symbol for notifying the player of the lottery result, and a notice effect for the player Image data such as a character or item for displaying is stored.
The ROM 312 further stores various types of acoustic data such as music and sound output from the speaker 156 in synchronization with the image data or independently of the image data, and sound effects such as jingles. The CPU 311 selects and reads out the data corresponding to the command sent from the effect control unit 300 from the image data and the sound data stored in the ROM 312. Furthermore, image processing for background image display, symbol image display, symbol image variation, character / item display, etc., and voice processing using the read acoustic data are performed using the read image data.
Then, the image / sound control unit 310 controls screen display on the image display unit 114 based on the image data subjected to image processing. Further, the sound output from the speaker 156 is controlled by the sound data subjected to the sound processing.

[Configuration and function of lamp control unit]
The lamp control unit 320 stores a CPU 321 that performs arithmetic processing when controlling the light emission of the panel lamp 116 and the frame lamp 157 and the operation of the movable accessory 115, and programs executed by the CPU 321 and various data. A ROM 322 and a RAM 323 used as a working memory for the CPU 321 are provided.
The lamp control unit 320 controls lighting / flashing of the panel lamp 116 and the frame lamp 157, the emission color, and the like based on the command sent from the effect control unit 300. Further, the operation of the movable accessory 115 is controlled.
Specifically, the ROM 322 of the lamp control unit 320 stores lighting / flashing pattern data and emission color pattern data (light emission pattern data) of the panel lamp 116 and the frame lamp 157 according to the production contents set by the production control unit 300. Data) is stored. The CPU 321 selects and reads out the light emission pattern data stored in the ROM 322 corresponding to the command sent from the effect control unit 300. The lamp controller 320 controls the light emission of the panel lamp 116 and the frame lamp 157 based on the read light emission pattern data.
The ROM 322 of the lamp control unit 320 stores operation pattern data of the movable accessory 115 corresponding to the production content set by the production control unit 300. The CPU 321 controls the operation of the movable accessory 115 based on the read operation pattern data.

[Configuration and function of payout control unit]
The payout control unit 400 includes a CPU 401 that performs arithmetic processing for controlling payout of payout balls, a ROM 402 that stores programs executed by the CPU 401, various data, and the like, and a RAM 403 that is used as a work memory for the CPU 401 and the like. And.
The payout control unit 400 controls payout of the payout ball based on the command sent from the game control unit 200.
Specifically, the payout control unit 400 acquires from the game control unit 200 a command for paying out a predetermined number of prize balls according to the place where the game ball has won (such as the first start port 121). Then, the payout driving unit 411 is controlled so as to pay out the number of prize balls specified by the command. Here, the payout drive unit 411 includes a drive motor that sends out the game ball from the storage unit of the game ball.

The payout control unit 400 also includes a payout ball detection unit 412 that detects the number of prize balls actually paid out from the game ball storage unit by the payout drive unit 411, and a game ball in the storage unit (not shown). Detecting unit 413 for detecting the presence or absence of storage of the game, and detecting whether or not the plate 153 for holding the game ball used when the player plays and the awarded ball is full. A full tank detection unit 414 is connected. Then, the payout control unit 400 receives detection signals detected by the payout ball detection unit 412, the ball presence detection unit 413, and the full tank detection unit 414, and performs predetermined processing according to these detection signals.
Further, the payout control unit 400 is connected to a frame external information terminal board 450 that transmits various types of information to a host computer installed in the hall. Then, the payout control unit 400, for example, information on the number of prize balls instructed to pay out to the payout driving unit 411, information on the number of prize balls actually paid out detected by the payout ball detection unit 412, etc. Is transmitted to the host computer via the frame external information terminal board 450. Also, similar information is transmitted to the game control unit 200.

[Functional configuration of game control unit]
Next, the functional configuration of the game control unit 200 will be described.
FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the game control unit 200. As shown in the figure, the game control unit 200 includes a random number acquisition unit 231, a normal symbol determination unit 232, a special symbol variation control unit 233, and a special symbol determination unit 234 as functional units that execute various lottery processes. And a normal symbol fluctuation control unit 237.
In addition, the game control unit 200 includes a variation pattern selection unit 235 as a functional unit that executes a process associated with special symbol variation.
Furthermore, the game control unit 200 is a function unit that executes operation control of various types of objects and data processing related to a prize ball, etc., as a function unit for a prize winning opening operation control unit 238, an electric tulip operation control unit 239, and a prize ball processing unit 240. And an output control unit 241 and a random number control unit 242.

The random number acquisition unit 231 acquires a random number related to a special symbol when a game ball wins the first start port 121 or the second start port 122. Specifically, one numerical value (random number value) is selected (obtained) from a predetermined range of numerical values and used for determination by the special symbol determination unit 234.
The random number acquisition unit 231 acquires a random number related to a normal symbol when a game ball passes through the gate 124. Specifically, one numerical value (random number value) is selected (obtained) from a predetermined range of numerical values, and used for determination by the normal symbol determination unit 232.
The special symbol fluctuation control unit 233 controls the fluctuation of the special symbol according to the lottery result when the special symbol lottery is performed.

  The special symbol determination unit 234 uses a random number table as shown in FIG. 17 at the start of the variation of the special symbol, and the lottery result is “whether it is a big hit”, “a type of big hit when winning a big win”, “ It is determined whether or not the jackpot is lost or not when the jackpot is not won. That is, the random number acquisition unit 231 acquires a random number value related to a special symbol when the first starting port switch 211 or the second starting port switch 212 serving as a detection unit detects passage of a game ball, and determines a special symbol. The unit 234 determines based on the acquired random number value whether or not to play a special game (such as a big hit game) advantageous to the player. The special symbol lottery (big hit lottery) described above refers to processing in the random number acquisition unit 231 and the special symbol determination unit 234.

  Here, the “hit” is divided into a plurality of types according to the gaming state that occurs after the end of the jackpot game. Specifically, the type of jackpot is determined depending on the combination of the short-time state or the short-time state and the high-probability state or the low-probability state. That is, as a type of jackpot, after the jackpot game is finished, it is a jackpot, a short probability state and a low probability state state that has both a short probability state and a high probability state state that has both a short state state and a high probability state state. A jackpot that becomes a gaming state, a state that has both a short-time state and a high-probability state, and a jackpot that becomes a high-probability state that has both a short-time state and a low-probability state. There can be a jackpot. Each of these jackpots is associated with an individual special symbol, and the type of jackpot is determined according to the type of special symbol won in the special symbol lottery.

  In addition, the “bonanza” may be divided into a jackpot that can be expected to pay out a large amount of gaming balls for a long time, and a jackpot that can hardly be expected to pay out gaming balls because the jackpot game time is short. The former is called “long hit” and the latter is called “short hit”. For example, in “long win”, a round that is maintained until the open state of the big winning opening 125 satisfies a predetermined condition (for example, 29.5 seconds have passed or 10 game balls have been won) is repeated, for example, 15 times. In the “short win”, a round in which the special winning opening 125 is opened for a certain time (for example, 0.1 second) is repeated, for example, 15 times.

In addition, in the case of “small winning” when the big winning is not won, for example, a small winning game is performed in which the big winning opening 125 is opened for 15 seconds for 15 times. At the time of winning the small hit, the game state before the small win is continued even after the small hit game is completed. That is, when the game state at the time of winning the small hit is the high probability short game state, the high probability short time gaming state is continued even after the small hit game ends, and the gaming state does not shift. Similarly, when the game state at the time of winning the small hit is the low probability short-time non-game state, the low-probability short short no-game state is continued even after the small hit game ends, and the game state does not shift.
Also, “small hit” is a kind of “out of game”, and none of the above gaming states that are advantageous to the player is set.

The variation pattern selection unit 235 selects a variation pattern (variation time) of a special symbol displayed on the first special symbol display 221 or the second special symbol display 222. Here, the variation pattern selection unit 235 determines the variation pattern based on the determination result whether or not to play the jackpot game, the determination result whether or not to reach, and the like. Then, based on the variation pattern selected by the variation pattern selection unit 235, the special symbol variation control unit 233 controls the variation of the special symbol. Details of operations of the fluctuation pattern selection unit 235 and the special symbol fluctuation control unit 233 will be described later.
Here, “reach” is an effect for causing a player to expect a big hit in a decorative pattern to be described later.

When the normal symbol lottery is performed, the normal symbol determination unit 232 determines whether the normal symbol lottery result is “winning or not”.
The normal symbol fluctuation control unit 237 controls the fluctuation of the normal symbol according to the lottery result of the normal symbol.
The electric tulip operation control unit 239 releases the electric tulip 123 for a predetermined time and a predetermined number of times when it is determined as “winning” by the normal symbol lottery, so that the game ball can be easily won at the second start port 122. Generate a state. Further, when it is determined as “displacement”, such an open state of the electric tulip 123 is not generated.

The special winning opening operation control unit 238 controls the opening operation of the special winning opening 125.
The prize ball processing unit 240 sets a command for controlling the number of prizes to be received for various types of winnings and lotteries, and a command for controlling the payout of prize balls according to the prize.
The output control unit 241 controls the output of control commands from the game control unit 200 to the effect control unit 300 and the payout control unit 400.
The random number control unit 242 controls updating of various random values used in processing by the main control unit.

[Basic operation of gaming machine]
Next, the basic operation of the pachinko gaming machine 100 configured as described above will be described.
The basic operation of the pachinko gaming machine 100 is performed by a game control unit 200 that is a main control means. Under the control of the game control unit 200, the effect control unit 300, which is a sub-control means, controls the game effect, and the payout control unit 400 controls the payout of the prize ball.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing main operations of the game control unit 200.
The game control unit 200 repeatedly executes each process shown in FIG. 5 at regular time intervals (for example, 4 milliseconds) in a normal operation except for special cases such as when the power is turned on or when the power is turned off. Referring to FIG. 4, random number update processing, switch processing, symbol processing, electric accessory processing, prize ball processing, and output processing are sequentially executed (steps 501 to 506).

  In the random number update process (step 501), the random number control unit 242 of the game control unit 200 updates various random number values used in the process by the main control unit. Details of the setting of the random number and the update of the random value will be described later.

As the switch process (step 502), a start port switch process and a gate switch process are performed.
In the start port switch process, the random number acquisition unit 231 of the game control unit 200 monitors the state of the first start port switch 211 and the second start port switch 212 in FIG. A lottery process is executed.
In the gate switch process, the normal symbol determination unit 232 of the game control unit 200 monitors the state of the gate switch 214 of FIG. 3 and executes a process for normal symbol lottery when the switch is turned on.
The detailed contents of these switch processes will be described later.

As the symbol processing (step 503), special symbol processing and normal symbol processing are performed.
In the special symbol process, the special symbol variation control unit 233, the special symbol determination unit 234, and the variation pattern selection unit 235 of the game control unit 200 perform the special symbol variation and processing associated with this symbol variation.
In the normal symbol process, the normal symbol variation control unit 237 of the game control unit 200 performs a normal symbol variation and a process associated with the symbol variation.
The detailed contents of these symbol processes will be described later.

As the electric accessory process (step 504), a big prize opening process and an electric tulip process are performed.
In the special prize opening process, the special prize opening operation controller 238 of the game control unit 200 controls the opening operation of the special prize opening 125 based on a predetermined condition.
In the electric tulip process, the electric tulip operation control unit 239 of the game control unit 200 controls the opening operation of the electric tulip 123 based on a predetermined condition.
Detailed contents of these electric accessory processing will be described later.

In the winning ball process (step 505), the winning ball processing unit 240 of the game control unit 200 sets a command for controlling the number of winnings and a control for paying out a winning ball according to winning.
In the output process (step 506), the output control unit 241 of the game control unit 200 outputs a control command to the effect control unit 300 and the payout control unit 400. The control command is generated in each process up to step 505, set in the RAM 203, and output in this output process.

[Start-up switch processing in game control unit]
FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the contents of the start port switch process in the switch process shown in step 502 of FIG.
In the start port switch process, a process for winning at the first start port 121 and a process for winning at the second start port 122 are sequentially performed. Referring to FIG. 6, the game control unit 200 first determines whether or not a game ball has won the first start port 121 and the first start port switch 211 is turned on (step 601). If the first start port switch 211 is turned on, the game control unit 200 next determines whether or not the unchanged hold number U1 in the winning of the first start port 121 is less than the upper limit value (step 602). ). In the example shown in FIG. 6, the upper limit value is four. If the number of holds U1 has reached the upper limit value (No in step 602), it is not possible to hold any more unchanging winnings, so the process for winning at the first start port 121 is terminated.

  On the other hand, when the hold number U1 is less than the upper limit value (Yes in step 602), the game control unit 200 adds 1 to the value of the hold number U1 (step 603). And the random number acquisition part 231 of the game control part 200 acquires the random value for the lottery by this time winning, and stores it in RAM203 (step 604). Here, since the first starting port 121 is won, a random number value for special symbol lottery is acquired. The random value acquired at this time is the value updated by the random number update process in step 501. Then, the result of the special symbol lottery is determined in the later special symbol processing by this random number value. Random values here include jackpot random numbers that determine jackpot, jackpot or loss, jackpot type (short or short state after jackpot game, short or short state, high probability state or low probability state, long hit, short Symbol random number value that determines the winning pattern, jackpot symbol random number value, fluctuation pattern random number value for specifying the variation pattern in symbol variation, reach random number value that determines whether or not to perform with reach in the event of a loss, etc. Is included.

Next, the game control unit 200 performs a pre-determination process for giving a notice effect of a lottery result to a winning ball (holding ball) for which a special symbol variation display operation is pending (that is, an undrawn lotion) (Step 605). In this pre-determination process, the lottery result is determined not at the start of symbol variation but at the start opening prize (that is, at step 605). In addition, in the gaming machine that does not perform the notice effect based on the advance determination, the advance determination process may be omitted.
Thereafter, the game control unit 200 sets a hold number U1 increase command for notifying the effect control unit 300 of the increase in the hold number U1 in step 603 in the RAM 203 (step 606). The process ends. When the preliminary determination process in step 605 is performed, the information on the determination result of the preliminary determination obtained in step 605 is included in the pending number U1 increase command.

  Next, a process for winning in the second start port 122 is performed. Referring to FIG. 6, the game control unit 200 next determines whether or not the game ball has won the second start port 122 and the second start port switch 212 is turned on (step 607). If the second start port switch 212 is turned ON, the game control unit 200 next determines whether or not the unchanged hold number U2 in the winning of the second start port 122 is less than the upper limit value (step 608). ). In the example shown in FIG. 6, the upper limit value is four. If the number of holds U2 has reached the upper limit (No in step 608), it is not possible to hold any more unchanging winnings, so the processing for winning at the second start port 122 is terminated.

  On the other hand, when the holding number U2 is less than the upper limit value (Yes in Step 608), the game control unit 200 adds 1 to the value of the holding number U2 (Step 609). Then, the random number acquisition unit 231 of the game control unit 200 acquires a random number value for the lottery by the current winning and stores it in the RAM 203 (step 610). Here, since the winning of the second starting port 122, as in step 604 above, random numbers for special symbol lottery (big hit random number value, big hit symbol random value), reach random number value, variation pattern random value, etc.) To be acquired. The random value acquired at this time is the value updated by the random number update process in step 501. Then, the result of the special symbol lottery is determined in the later special symbol processing by this random number value.

Next, the game control unit 200 performs a pre-determination process for giving a notice effect of a lottery result to a winning ball (holding ball) for which a special symbol variation display operation is pending (that is, an undrawn lottery). (Step 611). The contents of this preliminary determination process are the same as in step 605 above. This prior determination process may also be omitted in gaming machines that do not perform the advance notice based on the prior determination.
Thereafter, the game control unit 200 sets a hold number U2 increase command for notifying the effect control unit 300 of the increase in the hold number U2 in step 609 in the RAM 203 (step 612), and with respect to the winning at the second start port 122 The process ends. When the preliminary determination process in step 611 is performed, the information on the determination result of the preliminary determination obtained in step 611 is included in the pending number U2 increase command.

[Gate switch processing in game control unit]
FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the contents of the gate switch process when a game ball passes through the gate 124.
In this gate switch process, the game control unit 200 first determines whether or not the game ball has passed through the gate 124 and the gate switch 214 is turned on (step 701). If the gate switch 214 is turned on, the game control unit 200 next determines whether or not the unchanged holding number G is less than the upper limit value (step 702). In the example shown in FIG. 7, the upper limit value is four. If the number of reserves G has reached the upper limit (No in step 702), no more unchanging winnings can be reserved, and the gate switch processing is terminated.

  On the other hand, when the number of reservations G is less than the upper limit value (Yes in step 702), the game control unit 200 adds 1 to the value of the number of reservations G (step 703). Then, the random number acquisition unit 231 of the game control unit 200 acquires a random value for the lottery by the current winning and stores it in the RAM 203 (step 704). Here, since the gate 124 is won, a random number value (such as a winning random number value) for normal symbol lottery is acquired.

  After the random value is acquired in step 704, the game control unit 200 sets a hold number G increase command for notifying the effect control unit 300 of the increase in the hold number G in step 703 in the RAM 203 (step 705). The process for winning in the gate 124 is terminated.

[Special symbol processing in game control unit]
FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the contents of the special symbol processing of the symbol processing shown in step 503 of FIG.
In this special symbol process, the special symbol variation control unit 233 of the game control unit 200 first checks whether or not the winning game flag is ON in the setting of a flag set in the RAM 203 (hereinafter, flag setting) ( Step 801). Here, the winning game flag is a flag that is set to identify that the result of the special symbol lottery is a big hit. Either the long winning game flag or the short winning game flag is set according to the type of winning. In the present embodiment, these are collectively called a winning game flag.

  When the winning game flag is ON, since the pachinko gaming machine 100 is already in a big hit, the special symbol processing is terminated without starting the special symbol variation (Yes in Step 801). On the other hand, if the winning game flag is OFF (No in Step 801), the special symbol variation control unit 233 next determines whether or not the current state of the pachinko gaming machine 100 is in the special symbol variation (Step 802). . If the special symbol is not changing (No in step 802), then the special symbol fluctuation control unit 233 performs processing related to the number U1 and U2 (see FIG. 6) of the special symbols that have not been changed (steps 803 to 806). . In the present embodiment, the number of holds U1 related to winning of the first start port 121 and the number of holds U2 related to winning of the second start port 122 are distinguished, so this processing is also performed for each corresponding start port. .

  Specifically, the special symbol variation control unit 233 first determines whether or not the number of holds U2 related to winning in the second start port 122 is 1 or more (step 803). When the number of reservations U2 is 1 or more (Yes in Step 803), the special symbol variation control unit 233 subtracts 1 from the value of the number of reservations U2 (Step 804). On the other hand, if the hold number U2 = 0 (No in step 803), the special symbol variation control unit 233 next determines whether the hold number U1 related to winning in the first start port 121 is 1 or more (step 805). . When the number of reservations U1 is 1 or more (Yes in Step 805), the special symbol variation control unit 233 subtracts 1 from the value of the number of reservations U1 (Step 806). On the other hand, if the number of holdings U1 = 0 (No in step 805), it means that there is no winning for starting the special symbol lottery, so the special symbol change is not started, and the waiting for a different routine is set. The process is executed and the process is terminated (step 816).

  After subtracting the holding number U1 or the holding number U2 in step 804 or step 806, the special symbol variation control unit 233 turns off the customer waiting flag set in the flag setting of the RAM 203 (step 807). The customer waiting flag is a flag for identifying that the pachinko gaming machine 100 is in the customer waiting state, and is set in the customer waiting setting process (step 816, see FIG. 12).

  Next, the special symbol variation control unit 233 executes jackpot determination processing and variation pattern selection processing by separate routines (steps 808 and 809). As will be described in detail later, by the jackpot determination process and the variation pattern selection process, setting information for variation of the special symbol displayed on the first special symbol display 221 (a jackpot symbol, a gaming state, a variation pattern, etc.) is determined. Is done. These pieces of information are included in a change start command sent to the effect control unit 300.

  Thereafter, the special symbol variation control unit 233 is displayed by the first special symbol display unit 221 and the second special symbol display unit 222 shown in FIG. 2 based on the setting contents determined in the jackpot determination process and the variation pattern selection process. The special symbol change is started (step 810). Then, a change start command including setting information indicating the setting contents (a jackpot symbol, a gaming state, a change pattern, etc.) is generated and set in the RAM 203 (step 811). The variation start command set in step 811 is transmitted to the effect control unit 300 by the output process shown in step 506 of FIG.

  If it is determined in step 802 that the special symbol is changing (Yes in step 802), or after the change start command is set in step 811, the special symbol fluctuation control unit 233 determines whether or not the fluctuation time has elapsed. (Step 812). That is, it is determined whether or not the elapsed time since the start of the variation of the special symbol at step 810 has reached the variation time set in the variation pattern selection process at step 809. If the variation time has not elapsed (No in step 812), the special symbol variation is continued, and the special symbol processing is terminated as it is.

  On the other hand, when the variation time has elapsed (Yes in step 812), the special symbol variation control unit 233 first determines the special symbol variation in the first special symbol display 221 and the second special symbol display 222 as a big hit in step 808. Stop at the symbol determined in the determination process (step 813). A change stop command for stopping a decorative design to be described later is set in the RAM 203 (step 814). Then, a stop routine process of another routine is executed (step 815). The contents of the stop process will be described later. The change stop command set in step 814 is transmitted to the effect control unit 300 by the output process shown in step 506 of FIG.

[Big hit judgment processing by game control unit]
FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the contents of the jackpot determination process (step 808 in FIG. 8).
In this jackpot determination process, the special symbol determination unit 234 of the game control unit 200 first determines a jackpot random number value in the current special symbol lottery (step 901), and determines whether or not the jackpot or small hit ( Steps 902, 905). The value of the jackpot random number acquired in Step 604 or Step 610 of FIG. 6 matches the value set as the winning value of the jackpot or the value set as the winning value of the jackpot whether the jackpot or the jackpot It is determined by judging whether or not (see FIG. 17A).

  If the result of the random number determination in step 901 is a big hit (Yes in step 902), then the special symbol determination unit 234 determines a big hit symbol random value (step 903). Depending on the result of this determination, the type of jackpot (high or low probability state, short or short state, short or short state, long or short hit) is determined. Which jackpot is determined is determined by whether the value of the jackpot symbol random number acquired in step 604 or step 610 in FIG. 6 matches a preset value for each jackpot type (see FIG. 17 (b)).

  After the above determination, the special symbol determination unit 234 sets the symbol representing the type of jackpot determined by the determination of the jackpot symbol random number (the jackpot symbol) as setting information in the RAM 203 (step 904).

  If the result of the random number determination in step 901 is a small hit (No in step 902, Yes in step 905), then the special symbol determination unit 234 displays a symbol indicating that it is a small hit (hereinafter referred to as a small hit symbol). The setting information is set in the RAM 203 (step 906).

  If the result of the random number determination in step 901 is neither big win nor small win (No in step 902 and step 905), then the special symbol determination unit 234 sets a symbol indicating that the lottery has shifted (hereinafter referred to as a loss symbol). Information is set in the RAM 203 (step 907).

[Change pattern selection process by game control unit]
FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the contents of the variation pattern selection process (step 809 in FIG. 8).
In this variation pattern selection process, the variation pattern selection unit 235 of the game control unit 200 first determines whether or not a big win has been won in this special symbol lottery using the determination result in step 902 of the jackpot determination process (FIG. 9). (Step 1001). If it is a big hit (Yes in Step 1001), the fluctuation pattern selection unit 235 reads the big hit fluctuation pattern table from the ROM 202 and sets it in the RAM 203 (Step 1002).

On the other hand, if the jackpot has not been won (No in step 1001), the variation pattern selection unit 235 then determines a random number value to determine whether or not to perform a so-called reach effect for causing the player to expect a jackpot. Perform (step 1003). Whether or not the reach effect is performed is determined by determining whether or not the reach random number value acquired in step 604 or step 610 in FIG. 6 matches a preset value (FIG. 17C). reference).
As a result of the determination using the random number value, when the reach effect is performed (Yes in Step 1004), the variation pattern selection unit 235 reads the variation pattern table for reach from the ROM 202 and sets it in the RAM 203 (Step 1005). When the reach effect is not performed (No in Step 1004), the variation pattern selection unit 235 reads the variation pattern table for loss from the ROM 202 and sets it in the RAM 203 (Step 1006).
Here, the variation pattern table is a table in which a plurality of variation patterns (variation times 10 seconds, 30 seconds, 60 seconds, 90 seconds, etc.) prepared in advance are associated with values of variation pattern random numbers.

  Next, the variation pattern selection unit 235 determines the variation pattern random value using the variation pattern random value acquired in Step 604 or Step 610 of FIG. 6 and the variation pattern table set in Steps 1002, 1005, and 1006. Perform (step 1007). That is, the fluctuation pattern selection unit 235 refers to the fluctuation pattern table set in the RAM 203 and selects a fluctuation pattern corresponding to the random value of the fluctuation pattern random number. Therefore, even if the same random number value is acquired, the variation referred to depending on the state difference such as whether or not the result of the special symbol lottery is a big hit or not and whether or not a reach effect is performed if it is not a big hit Since the pattern table is different, the determined variation pattern is different.

  Thereafter, the variation pattern selection unit 235 sets the variation pattern selected in Step 1007 in the RAM 203 as setting information (Step 1008). The variation pattern setting information set in step 1008 is included in the variation start command set in step 811 of FIG. 8, and is transmitted to the effect control unit 300 by the output process shown in step 506 of FIG.

[Processing during stop by game control unit]
FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the contents of the stop process (step 815 in FIG. 8).
In this stop process, the game control unit 200 first checks whether or not a flag indicating that the time is short (hereinafter referred to as a short time flag) is ON in the flag setting of the RAM 203 (step 1101). If the time reduction flag is ON (Yes in step 1101), the game control unit 200 subtracts 1 from the value of the number of lotteries (number of fluctuations) J in the time reduction state (step 1102), and whether the number of lotteries J has become 0. Whether or not is checked (step 1103). If the number of lotteries J = 0 (Yes in Step 1103), the time reduction flag is turned OFF (Step 1104). It should be noted that the operation for turning on the hourly flag and the setting of the initial value of the lottery number J are performed in a game state setting process (FIG. 15) in a special winning opening process (FIG. 14) described later.

  If the time reduction flag is OFF (No in Step 1101), or after the time reduction flag is turned OFF in Step 1104, or if the value of the lottery count J is not 0 (No in Step 1103), the game control unit 200 next In the flag setting of the RAM 203, it is checked whether or not a flag indicating a high probability state (hereinafter, probability variation flag) is ON (step 1105). When both the probability variation flag and the previous time-short flag are ON, the high-probability short-time gaming state is established, and when the probability variation flag is ON and the time-short flag is OFF, the high-probability time-short no-game state.

  When the probability variation flag is ON (Yes in Step 1105), the game control unit 200 subtracts 1 from the value of the number of lotteries (number of variations) X in the high probability state (Step 1106), and the number of lotteries X becomes 0. It is checked whether or not (step 1107). If the number of times of lottery X = 0 (Yes in Step 1107), the probability variation flag is turned OFF (Step 1108). Note that the operation for turning on the probability change flag and the setting of the initial value of the lottery number X are performed in a game state setting process (FIG. 15) in a special prize opening process (FIG. 14) described later.

  If the probability change flag is OFF (No in step 1105), or after the probability change flag is turned OFF in step 1108, or if the value of the lottery count X is not 0 (No in step 1107), the game control unit 200 next Then, it is determined whether or not the special symbol lottery has been won (step 1109). If it is a big hit (Yes in step 1109), the game control unit 200 next determines whether or not the big hit type is a long win (step 1110).

  Here, the determination of whether or not the jackpot is possible can be made based on the determination result of the jackpot determination process (FIG. 9). For example, if any of the symbols shown in the diagram of FIG. 17B described later is set, “Yes” is determined in step 1109. If a lost symbol or a small bonus symbol is set in the RAM 203 by the big hit determination process, No in step 1109.

  When the jackpot type is a long hit (Yes in Step 1110), the game control unit 200 turns on the long hit game flag (Step 1111). Thereby, the setting of the gaming state in the RAM 203 becomes a jackpot gaming state (long winning gaming state) in which the jackpot type is long winning. In addition, here, in the long hit, it is not distinguished whether it is a high probability state or a low probability state. Whether the state is a high probability state or a low probability state is specified by turning on a corresponding flag in a game state setting process (FIG. 15) in a special prize opening process (FIG. 14) described later.

  When the big hit type is not long hit (No in Step 1110), the game control unit 200 turns on the short hit game flag (Step 1112). Thereby, the setting of the gaming state in the RAM 203 becomes a big hit gaming state (short winning gaming state) in which the big hit type is short hit. Similar to the case of long hit, the case of short hit does not distinguish between a high probability state and a low probability state.

  After turning on the winning game flag in step 1111 or step 1112, the game control unit 200 initializes the values of the lottery times J and X (step 1113). Further, the game control unit 200 turns off the time reduction flag when the time reduction flag is ON in step 1101 and the lottery count J is not 0 in step 1103 (step 1114). Similarly, if the probability variation flag is ON in step 1105 and the lottery count X is not 0 in step 1107, the probability variation flag is turned OFF (step 1114).

On the other hand, when the result of the special symbol lottery this time is not a big win (No in Step 1109), the game control unit 200 determines whether or not the result of the special symbol lottery this time is a big hit (Step 1115). ). If it is not a small hit (No in step 1115), the in-stop process is terminated.
On the other hand, if it is a small hit (Yes in step 1115), the game control unit 200 starts a small hit game (step 1116). Thereby, the setting of the gaming state in the RAM 203 becomes the small hit gaming state. In the small hit game, as described above, the special winning opening 125 is opened and closed a predetermined number of times, and is ended after a predetermined time has elapsed.

After initializing the values of the lottery times J and X in step 1113, the game control unit 200 starts an opening operation (step 1117). Here, the contents of the opening operation differ depending on which of steps 1111 and 1112 the winning game flag is turned on. In other words, depending on the state of the winning game flag, one of the opening operations set in each gaming state of the long winning game and the short winning game is performed.
Thereafter, the game control unit 200 sets an opening command for performing an effect in the opening operation according to the winning game flag in the effect control unit 300 in the RAM 203 (step 1118), and ends the stop process. This opening command is transmitted to the effect control unit 300 by the output process shown in step 506 of FIG.

[Customer waiting setting process by game control unit]
FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the contents of the customer waiting setting process (step 816 in FIG. 8).
In this customer waiting setting process, the game control unit 200 first checks whether or not the customer waiting flag is ON in the flag setting of the RAM 203 (step 1201). Here, the customer waiting flag is a flag that is set to identify that the pachinko gaming machine 100 is in a customer waiting state.

  When the customer waiting flag is ON, since the pachinko gaming machine 100 is in the customer waiting state, the processing is ended as it is (Yes in step 1201). On the other hand, when the customer waiting flag is OFF, the game control unit 200 generates a customer waiting command and sets it in the RAM 203 (step 1202), and turns on the customer waiting flag (step 1203). The customer waiting command set in step 1202 is transmitted to the image / sound control unit 310 via the effect control unit 300 in the output process shown in step 506 of FIG. The customer waiting flag is set when a change in the special symbol is stopped, there is no holding, and the game is not a big hit game, that is, a so-called non-game state.

[Normal symbol processing by game control unit]
FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing the contents of the normal symbol processing in the symbol processing shown in step 503 of FIG.
In this normal symbol process, the normal symbol variation control unit 237 of the game control unit 200 first checks whether or not the auxiliary game flag is ON in the flag setting of the RAM 203 (step 1301). Here, the auxiliary game flag is a flag that is set when a normal symbol lottery is won. The state in which the auxiliary game flag is set is a state in which the electric tulip 123 is opened in accordance with the electric tulip process (FIG. 16) described later and it is easy to win the second start port 122 (auxiliary game state).

  When the auxiliary game flag is ON, since the auxiliary game state has already been reached and the normal symbol is stopped, the normal symbol processing is terminated without starting the normal symbol variation (Yes in step 1301). On the other hand, when the auxiliary game flag is OFF (No in step 1301), the normal symbol variation control unit 237 next determines whether or not the current state of the pachinko gaming machine 100 is in the normal symbol variation (step 1302). . If the normal symbol is not changing (No in step 1302), then the normal symbol change control unit 237 determines whether the number G of the normal symbols remaining unchanged (see FIG. 7) is 1 or more (step 1303). If the holding number G = 0 (No in step 1303), it means that there is no winning for starting the normal symbol lottery, and therefore the processing is terminated without starting the normal symbol variation.

  On the other hand, when the reserved number G is 1 or more (Yes in Step 1303), the normal symbol variation control unit 237 subtracts 1 from the value of the reserved number G (Step 1304), and the random number in the current normal symbol lottery It is determined whether or not the normal symbol lottery is won (step 1305). Whether or not the winner is won is determined by determining whether or not the value of the winning random number acquired in step 704 in FIG. 7 matches the value set as the winning value in the table shown in FIG. Determined by.

  Next, the normal symbol variation control unit 237 sets the normal symbol according to the result of the normal symbol lottery (step 1306). That is, when a normal symbol lottery is won, a symbol representing the winning (hereinafter referred to as a winning symbol) is set in the RAM 203 as setting information. On the other hand, when the normal symbol lottery is not won, a symbol indicating that the lottery has been lost (hereinafter referred to as a lost symbol) is set in the RAM 203 as setting information.

  Next, the normal symbol fluctuation control unit 237 sets the fluctuation time of the normal symbol (step 1307). This variation time is set based on the time reduction flag set in the processing of steps 1104 and 1114 in FIG. 11 and steps 1504 and 1507 in FIG. That is, when the time reduction flag is ON in the setting in step 1307, it is set to a short time (for example, 1.5 seconds), and when the time reduction flag is OFF, it is set to a long time (for example, 4.0 seconds). Is set. After this setting, the normal symbol fluctuation control unit 237 starts normal symbol fluctuations in the normal symbol display 223 shown in FIG. 2A and FIG. 3 based on the setting contents of step 1307 (step 1308).

  After starting normal symbol variation in step 1308 or when it is determined in step 1302 that normal symbol variation is in progress (Yes in step 1302), the normal symbol variation control unit 237 determines whether or not the variation time has elapsed. (Step 1309). That is, it is determined whether or not the elapsed time from the start of normal symbol fluctuation in step 1308 has reached the fluctuation time set in step 1307. If the fluctuation time has not elapsed (No in step 1309), the normal symbol variation is continued, and the normal symbol processing is terminated as it is.

  On the other hand, when the fluctuation time is over (Yes in step 1309), the normal symbol fluctuation control unit 237 stops the fluctuation of the normal symbol in the normal symbol display unit 223 (step 1310). Then, the normal symbol variation control unit 237 determines whether or not the normal symbol lottery is won based on the stopped normal symbol (step 1311). If it is elected (Yes in Step 1311), the auxiliary game flag is turned ON (Step 1312). On the other hand, if the lottery is off (No in step 1311), the normal symbol process is terminated without turning on the auxiliary game flag.

[Large winning mouth processing by game control unit]
FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the contents of the big prize opening process in the electric accessory process shown in Step 504 of FIG.
In this special winning opening process, the special winning opening operation control unit 238 of the game control unit 200 first checks whether or not the winning game flag is ON in the flag setting of the RAM 203 (step 1401). If the winning game flag is OFF, there is no prize winning in the big prize opening 125, so the big prize opening process is terminated (No in step 1401). On the other hand, if the winning game flag is ON (Yes in Step 1401), the special winning opening operation control unit 238 next performs the operation control at the time of the big hit started in the pachinko gaming machine 100 being stopped (FIG. 11). It is determined whether or not the opening operation is in progress (step 1402).

  When the pachinko gaming machine 100 is opening (Yes in Step 1402), the next prize opening operation control unit 238 determines whether or not a predetermined time for opening operation (opening time) has elapsed. Judgment is made (step 1403). If the opening time has not elapsed, the opening operation at the special winning opening 125 is continued, and the special winning opening process is terminated (No in step 1403). On the other hand, if the opening time has elapsed (Yes in step 1403), the special winning opening operation control unit 238 next sets the operation of the special winning opening 125 (step 1404) and initializes the winning number C (C = 0) (step 1405), the value of the number of operation rounds R of the big prize opening 125 is incremented by 1 from the current value (step 1406), and the big prize opening 125 is started (opened) (step 1407).

  In the operation setting of step 1404, the operation pattern of the special winning opening 125 and the number of rounds (operation round number) operated by the operation pattern are set. As the case where the big prize opening 125 is operated, there are a case where it is a big win per long or short in a special symbol lottery and a case where it is a small win. The operation pattern and the number of rounds are variously set according to the hit type. In the case of a long hit, for example, 15 rounds (15R) are operated, and 29.5 seconds are released once in one round. In the case of a short hit, for example, 15 rounds (15R) are operated, and one round is performed once for 0.1 seconds. In the case of a small hit, for example, one round (1R) is operated, and 0.1 second is released 15 times in this round. Here, when the operation with short hits and the operation with small hits are compared in the above examples, both 0.1 seconds of opening is performed 15 times. That is, the action of the big winning opening 125 that can be seen by the player is the same in the case of short win and small win, and the short win and the small win are distinguished only from the action of the big winning opening 125 on the game board 110. I can't do it.

  As another example, 15 rounds (15R) are activated per long, 29.5 seconds are released once per round, 2 rounds (2R) are activated per short, and 0 are rounded per round. .9 seconds are opened twice, and with a small hit, one round (1R) is operated, and 0.9 seconds is opened twice in this round. In this case as well, when the operation with short hits and the operation with small hits are compared, both 0.9 seconds are released twice, and the action of the big prize opening 125 that can be seen by the player is in the case of short hits. It is the same in the case of small hits.

  The law stipulates that the cumulative opening time of the special winning opening 125 must be set within 1.8 seconds for a small hit. On the other hand, in the case of a big hit (long hit or short win), the big winning opening 125 must be continuously opened a plurality of times. Therefore, when trying to make it difficult to visually distinguish the operation with a small hit and the operation with a short hit as described above, within the range that satisfies the cumulative open time within 1.8 seconds in one operation, An operation mode in which the big prize opening 125 is opened two or more times is set, and in the short win, the same number of rounds as the number of small hits is set.

  Next, the special winning opening operation control unit 238 determines whether or not the opening time in the operation pattern set in Step 1404 has elapsed (Step 1408). When the open state at the big prize opening 125 has not passed the opening time (No in step 1408), the big prize opening operation control unit 238 then determines that the number C of winning prizes to the big prize opening 125 is a predetermined number (for example, It is determined whether or not (9) or more (step 1409). If the opening time has not elapsed and the number C of winning prizes is less than the prescribed number, the operating state (opening state) of the big winning opening 125 is continued, so that the big winning opening process is terminated (step 1409). No). On the other hand, if the opening time has passed (Yes in Step 1408) or the winning number C has reached the specified number (Yes in Step 1409), the special winning opening operation controller 238 ends the operation of the special winning opening 125 ( (Step 1410).

  Next, the special winning opening operation control unit 238 determines whether or not the round number R of the operation of the special winning opening 125 has reached the maximum value set in Step 1404 (Step 1411). If the maximum value has not been reached, the remaining operations are performed, and the special winning opening process is terminated (No in step 1411).

If the number of rounds R of the operation of the special prize opening 125 reaches the maximum value (Yes in Step 1411), the special prize opening operation control unit 238 then starts the ending operation (Step 1412). Here, the content of the ending operation corresponds to the state of the winning game flag among the ending operations set in each gaming state of the long winning game and the short winning game.
Thereafter, the special winning opening operation control unit 238 sets an ending command for performing the effect in the ending operation according to the winning game flag in the effect control unit 300 in the RAM 203 (step 1413). This opening command is transmitted to the effect control unit 300 by the output process shown in step 506 of FIG.

  Next, the prize winning opening operation control unit 238 resets the round number R of the action of the prize winning opening 125 to 0 (step 1414), and then performs an ending operation in which an elapsed time from the start of the ending operation is set in advance. It is determined whether or not the time to be played (ending time) has passed (step 1417). If the ending time has not elapsed, the ending operation is continued, and thus the big prize opening process is terminated (No in step 1417). On the other hand, if the ending time has elapsed (Yes in step 1417), the special winning opening operation control unit 238 then performs a game state setting process by the game control unit 200 (step 1418), and then turns off the winning game flag. Then, the special winning opening process is terminated (step 1419). The contents of the game state setting process will be described later.

  If it is determined in step 1402 that the pachinko gaming machine 100 is not opening (No in step 1402), the special winning opening operation control unit 238 determines whether or not ending is in progress (step 1415). If ending is in progress (Yes in step 1415), the operations after step 1417 are executed.

On the other hand, if the pachinko gaming machine 100 is not ending (No in step 1415), the special prize opening operation control unit 238 determines whether or not the special prize opening 125 is operating (opening) (step 1416). . If it is not in operation (No in Step 1416), the operation after Step 1405 is executed. If it is in operation (Yes in Step 1416), the operation after Step 1408 is executed.
The effect performed in the small hit game described above is the same as the effect performed in the short hit game, and it is not possible to distinguish short hit and small hit from the effect.

[Game state setting process]
FIG. 15 shows the content of the game state setting process (step 1418) performed by the game control unit 200 when the ending time has elapsed (Yes in step 1417).
When the game state setting process is performed, the winning game flag is set to ON in step 1401 of FIG. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 15, the game control unit 200 first determines the type of the hit (steps 1501, 1502, 1503, 1506). These determinations can be made based on the types of symbols set as setting information in the RAM 203 in the jackpot determination process (FIG. 9), for example. Since these determinations are substantially the same as steps 902, 903, and 905 of the jackpot determination process (FIG. 9), the determination results of steps 902, 903, and 905 may be used.

If it is a small hit (Yes in step 1501), the gaming state (internal state of the pachinko gaming machine 100) is not changed, so the gaming state setting process is terminated.
When the winning type is a big hit in the low probability short game state (No in Step 1501, Yes in Steps 1502 and 1503), the game control unit 200 turns on the short time flag (Step 1504). Thereby, the setting of the gaming state in the RAM 203 becomes the low gaming state when the probability is low. In addition, the game control unit 200 sets an initial value of the lottery count J (step 1505), and ends the game state setting process. The initial value of the lottery number J is 100 in the illustrated example. Therefore, if the lottery in the low probability short game state is performed 100 times, the low probability short game state is ended and the low probability short short game state is entered.

  On the other hand, when the hit type is a big hit in the low probability short-time non-game state (No in step 1501, Yes in 1502, No in step 1503), the game control unit 200 performs processing without turning on both the short-time flag and the probability variation flag. Exit. Therefore, the setting of the game state of the RAM 203 for the game after the jackpot becomes a low probability short time no game state.

  When the winning type is a big hit with a high probability short-time gaming state (No in Steps 1501 and 1502, Yes in Step 1506), the game control unit 200 turns on the short-time flag (Step 1507), and the initial value of the number of lottery J Is set (step 1508). In this case, the initial value of the number of times of lottery J is 10,000 in the illustrated example. In addition, the game control unit 200 turns on the probability variation flag (step 1509) and sets the initial value of the number of lotteries X (step 1510). The initial value of the number of times of lottery X is 10,000 in the illustrated example. As a result, the setting of the gaming state in the RAM 203 becomes a high probability and short gaming state. If the lottery in the high probability short game state is performed 10,000 times, the high probability short game state is terminated and the low probability short short game state is entered.

  On the other hand, when the winning type is a big hit with a high probability short-time non-game state (No in steps 1501, 1502, and step 1506), the game control unit 200 turns on only the probability change flag (step 1509), An initial value (10000 times) is set (step 1510). Thereby, the setting of the gaming state in the RAM 203 becomes a high probability short time no gaming state. Then, if the lottery in the high probability short-time non-game state is performed 10,000 times, the high-probability short-time non-game state is finished and the low-probability short-time non-game state is entered.

[Electric tulip processing by game control unit]
FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing the contents of the electric tulip process in the electric accessory process shown in Step 504 of FIG.
In the electric tulip process, the electric tulip operation control unit 239 of the game control unit 200 first checks whether or not the auxiliary game flag is ON in the flag setting of the RAM 203 (step 1601). When the auxiliary game flag is OFF, the electric tulip 123 is not released, and thus the electric tulip process is terminated (No in step 1601). On the other hand, when the auxiliary game flag is ON (Yes in Step 1601), the electric tulip operation control unit 239 determines whether the electric tulip 123 is in operation (Step 1602).

  When the electric tulip 123 is not in operation (No in Step 1602), the electric tulip operation control unit 239 sets the operation pattern of the electric tulip 123 (Step 1603), and operates the electric tulip 123 with the set operation pattern ( Step 1604). Here, the operation pattern is set based on the time reduction flag set in the processing of steps 1104 and 1114 in FIG. 11, steps 1504 and 1507 in FIG. For example, when the time reduction flag is OFF at the time of setting in step 1603, an operation pattern that opens once with a release time of 0.15 seconds is set, and when the time reduction flag is ON, 1.80 seconds are set. An operation pattern that opens three times in the opening time is set. As described above, normally, when the hourly flag is ON (when the hourly gaming state is set), the electric tulip 123 is opened a plurality of times for a long time, and the winning support that makes it easy to win the second starting port 122 (electric chewing support) ) Is performed.

  When it is determined in step 1602 that the electric tulip 123 is in operation (Yes in step 1602), or after the electric tulip 123 is operated in step 1604, the electric tulip operation control unit 239 opens in the set operation pattern. It is determined whether time has passed (step 1605). If the opening time has not elapsed, the operation state (open state) of the electric tulip 123 is continued, and thus the electric tulip process is terminated (No in step 1605). On the other hand, if the opening time has elapsed (Yes in step 1605), the electric tulip operation control unit 239 sets the auxiliary game flag to OFF and ends the electric tulip process (step 1606).

[Random number judgment method]
Here, a determination method using random numbers performed in the jackpot determination process (FIG. 9), the variation pattern selection process (FIG. 10), the normal symbol process (FIG. 13), etc. will be described in detail.
FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of random number determination (determination table) used in the present embodiment.
FIG. 17A shows a configuration example of jackpot random number determination, FIG. 17B shows a configuration example of jackpot symbol random number determination, FIG. 17C shows a configuration example of reach random number determination, and FIG. ) Each show a configuration example of the hit random number determination.

  Referring to FIG. 17 (a), as the determination value of the jackpot random number, two types of gaming states of the pachinko gaming machine 100, a jackpot with a low probability state and a jackpot with a high probability state, and a jackpot are set. The range of values of random numbers (big hit random numbers) is 300 from 0 to 299. In the case of a special symbol lottery in a low probability state (a jackpot lottery), only one winning value is set, and the winning probability is 1/300. In the case of a special symbol lottery in a high probability state, 10 winning values are set, and the winning probability is 10/300 (= 1/30). That is, in the example shown in the figure, if the winning symbols 121 and 122 are won in the high probability state and the special symbol lottery is performed, the winning probability is 10 times that in the case where the special symbol lottery is performed in the low probability state. Further, three winning values are set regardless of the low probability state or the high probability state, and the winning probability is 3/300 (= 1/100).

  Referring to FIG. 17 (b), five types of jackpot symbols are prepared: low probability symbol A, low probability symbol B, high probability symbol A, high probability symbol B, and latent symbol symbol. Here, the low-probability symbol A and the low-probability symbol B are symbols indicating that the low-probability state is a big hit. Of these, the low-probability symbol A is a long win (low-probability short-time gaming state), and the low-probability symbol B is Represents each short hit (low probability, short no-game state). The high-probability symbol A and the high-probability symbol B are symbols representing a jackpot of a high-probability state. Among these symbols, the high-probability symbol A is a long win (high-probability short-time gaming state), and the high-probability symbol B is a short-hit ( High probability short-time non-game state). The latent symbol is a symbol representing that it is a big hit in a high probability short-time no-game state. Therefore, the high probability symbol B and the latent probability symbol have the same gaming state after the jackpot game, but the latent probability symbol is a condition for performing a latent effect that does not clearly notify the player that the probability state is high. Therefore, it is provided separately from the high probability symbol B. The range of random number values is 250 from 0 to 249. In addition, in the jackpot symbol random number, a winning value is set for each of the first start port 121 and the second start port 122 that trigger the special symbol lottery.

In the low probability pattern A, 35 values are assigned as winning values in both the first start port 121 and the second start port 122. Therefore, the probability of winning with the low probability symbol A when winning a jackpot is 35/250 (= 7/50).
In the low probability symbol B, 15 values are assigned as winning values for both the first start port 121 and the second start port 122. Therefore, when winning the jackpot, the probability of winning with the low probability symbol B is 15/250 (= 3/50).

In the high probability symbol A, 25 values are assigned as winning values when winning in the first start port 121. Therefore, the probability of winning with the high-probability symbol A is 25/250 (= 1/10) in the case of winning the jackpot in the special symbol lottery started by winning the first starting port 121.
On the other hand, 175 values are assigned as winning values when winning at the second start port 122. Therefore, the probability of winning with the high-probability symbol A is 175/250 (= 7/10) in the case of winning the jackpot in the special symbol lottery started by winning the second starting port 122.

In the high probability symbol B, 75 values are assigned as winning values when winning in the first start port 121. Therefore, the probability of winning with the high-probability symbol B in the special symbol lottery started by winning the first starting port 121 is 75/250 (= 3/10).
On the other hand, 25 values are assigned as winning values when winning at the second start port 122. Therefore, the probability of winning with the high-probability symbol B in the special symbol lottery started by winning the second starting port 122 is 25/250 (= 1/10).

In the latent symbol, 100 values are assigned as winning values when winning at the first start port 121. Therefore, the probability of winning in the latent symbol when winning a big win in the special symbol lottery started by winning the first starting port 121 is 100/250 (= 2/5).
On the other hand, the winning value in the latent symbol is not assigned to the second starting port 122, and when winning in the second starting port 122, it is not won in the latent symbol.

  As described above, in the example shown in FIG. 17B, the jackpot when winning the first start port 121 has a probability of becoming a jackpot (high probability symbol B, latent probability symbol) of the high probability short-time non-game state. The probability that the jackpot when winning the second start port 122 is high is a jackpot (high probability symbol A) in the short game state with high probability is high. In this way, by making the winning probabilities of the jackpot types different when winning at the first start port 121 and when winning at the second start port 122, various game characteristics can be provided. Further, the arrangement of the first start port 121 and the second start port 122 on the game board 110 is devised so that it is easy to aim at either the first start port 121 or the second start port 122 in a specific state (mode). By configuring the above, it is possible to encourage the player to participate in more aggressive games.

Next, the determination of reach random numbers will be described.
Referring to FIG. 17 (c), the range of random number values is 250 from 0 to 249, and 22 random numbers are assigned to the lottery result (with reach) for performing the reach effect, and the reach effect is not performed. 228 random numbers are assigned to the result (no reach). In other words, in the illustrated example, when a special symbol lottery is not won, a reach effect is performed with a probability of 22/250 (= 11/125).

Next, the determination of the winning random number used for the normal symbol lottery will be described.
Referring to FIG. 17D, the range of the random number value is 10 from 0 to 9, and one value is assigned as the winning value when the time-short flag is OFF, and as the winning value when the time-short flag is ON. Nine values are assigned. Therefore, when the game ball passes through the gate 124 and the normal symbol lottery (open / close lottery) is performed in the timeless state, the player wins with a probability of 1/10. On the other hand, if the game ball passes through the gate 124 and the normal symbol lottery (open / close lottery) is performed in the short-time state, the player wins with a probability of 9/10.

A random value as determination information used for various types of lottery starts from a predetermined initial value and is incremented by one each time the random number update process (step 501) shown in FIG. 5 is performed. Then, the values at the time each lottery is performed are acquired by the start opening switch process (FIG. 6) and the gate switch process (FIG. 7), and used in the special symbol process (FIG. 8) and the normal symbol process (FIG. 13). The Note that this random value counter is an infinite loop counter, and returns to 0 again after reaching the maximum value of the set random number (for example, 1009 for the big hit random number). In addition, since the random number update process is performed at regular intervals, if the initial value of each random number is specified, the winning value may be estimated based on such information. Therefore, in general, a mechanism for randomly changing the initial value of each random number at an appropriate timing has been introduced.
Note that the random number range, winning value ratio, and winning value shown in the configuration example of each random number in FIG. 17 are merely examples, and are not limited to the illustrated values.

[Operation of production control unit]
Next, the operation of the effect control unit 300 will be described.
FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing the operation of the effect control unit 300.
The operation of the effect control unit 300 includes a main process shown in FIG. 18A and an interrupt process shown in FIG. Referring to FIG. 18A, the production control unit 300 first performs initial setting at the time of activation (step 1801), sets the cycle of the CTC (Counter / Timer Circuit) (step 1802), and then sets the cycle. Accordingly, the interrupt process is accepted while updating the random number used in the production control (step 1803).

  The interrupt process is periodically performed according to the period set in step 1802. Referring to FIG. 18B, in this interruption process, the effect control unit 300 receives an effect control command from the game control unit 200 and performs a command reception process (step 1811). In this command reception process, an effect pattern is selected. Thereafter, the effect control unit 300 performs a command transmission process of transmitting an effect instruction command including information on the selected effect pattern to the image / sound control unit 310 and the lamp control unit 320 (step 1812). As a result, effects such as image display on the image display unit 114, sound output, operation of the movable accessory 115, light emission of the panel lamp 116 and the frame lamp 157 are performed.

[Command reception processing by the production control unit]
FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing the contents of the command reception process (step 1811 in FIG. 18B).
In this command reception process, the effect control unit 300 first determines whether or not the received effect control command is a command for increasing the number of holds (holding number increase command) (step 1901). This pending number increase command is set in the start port switch process shown in FIG. 6 in the game control unit 200 (steps 606 and 612), and transmitted to the effect control unit 300 in the output process (step 506) shown in FIG. Is done. If the command is an increase command for the number of holdings (Yes in Step 1901), the effect control unit 300 adds 1 to the value of the number of holdings held in the RAM 303 (Step 1902), and shows the value of the number of holdings after the addition. A number command is set in the RAM 303 (step 1903).

If the received effect control command is not a hold number increase command (No in step 1901), or if an effect control command is received after the setting of the hold number increase command in step 1903, the effect control unit 300 receives the received effect control. It is determined whether the command for change is a change start command (step 1904). This variation start command is set in the special symbol process shown in FIG. 8 in the game control unit 200 (step 811), and transmitted to the effect control unit 300 in the output process (step 506) shown in FIG.
When the received effect control command is a change start command (Yes in Step 1904), the effect control unit 300 executes effect selection processing (Step 1905). Details of the effect selection process will be described later.

When the received effect control command is not a change start command (No in Step 1901 and Step 1904), or when the effect control command is received after the effect selection process in Step 1905 is performed, the effect control unit 300 receives the received effect. It is determined whether or not the control command is a variable stop command (step 1906). This variation stop command is set in the special symbol process shown in FIG. 8 in the game control unit 200 (step 814), and transmitted to the effect control unit 300 in the output process (step 506) shown in FIG.
When the received effect control command is a variation stop command (Yes in step 1906), the effect control unit 300 executes a variation effect end process (step 1907). Details of the process during the end of the variation effect will be described later.

When the received effect control command is not the change start command and the change stop command (No in Step 1901, Step 1904, and Step 1906), or when the effect control command is received after the execution of the changing effect end process in Step 1907, The effect control unit 300 determines whether or not the received effect control command is an opening command for starting the opening in the jackpot effect (step 1908). This opening command is set in the stop process shown in FIG. 11 (step 1118), and transmitted to the effect control unit 300 in the output process (step 506) shown in FIG.
When the received effect control command is an opening command (Yes in Step 1908), the effect control unit 300 executes a hit effect selection process (Step 1909). Details of the winning effect selection process will be described later.

When the received effect control command is not a change start command, change stop command, or opening command (No in step 1901, step 1904, step 1906, and step 1908), or after execution of the hit effect selection process in step 1909, an effect control command Is received, the effect control unit 300 determines whether or not the received effect control command is an ending command for starting the ending in the jackpot effect (step 1910). This ending command is set in the big prize opening process shown in FIG. 14 (step 1413), and is transmitted to the effect control unit 300 in the output process (step 506) shown in FIG.
When the received effect control command is an ending command (Yes in Step 1910), the effect control unit 300 executes an ending effect selection process (Step 1911). Details of the ending effect selection process will be described later.

FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating a setting example of the mode flag.
When an effect is performed by the effect control unit 300, various effect patterns are selected and executed based on the set effect mode. This effect mode is determined by a mode flag set in the RAM 303. Here, the mode flag is set to any value from 0 to 4, and five types of effect modes from A mode to E mode are assigned to each mode flag. The mode flag is set according to the lottery result of the special symbol lottery or the number of lotteries of the special symbol lottery.
Mode flag 1 for jackpot of high probability symbol A, mode flag 2 for jackpot of low probability symbol A, mode flag 3 for jackpot of high probability symbol B and low probability symbol B, jackpot of latent symbol symbol and A mode flag 4 is assigned to each small hit. Here, the types of these symbols are the same as those shown in FIG. No mode flag 0 is assigned to any of them. In mode flags 1 to 4, mode flag 0 is set by executing special symbol lottery a predetermined number of times.
Furthermore, in the example shown in FIG. 20, the parameter M (M value) used in the process during the end of the changing effect is set individually for each mode except the A mode.

FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing the contents of the effect selection process (step 1905) of FIG.
In this effect selection process, the effect control unit 300 first analyzes the received variation start command (step 2101). Further, the effect control unit 300 refers to the current mode flag of the pachinko gaming machine 100 from the setting of the RAM 303 (step 2102), and subtracts 1 from the value of the number of holdings held in the RAM 303 (step 2103). Then, the effect control unit 300 is based on various setting information (information about jackpot type, gaming state after jackpot game, variation pattern, etc.) obtained from the analysis result of the change start command and the effect mode determined by the mode flag. Then, an effect pattern (fluctuation effect pattern) of the symbol variation by the image displayed on the image display unit 114 in the effect mode is selected (step 2104). Finally, the effect control unit 300 reads the image data and the sound data used for the effect by the selected effect pattern from the ROM 302, and uses these data together with these data as the effect instruction command to indicate the start of execution of the selected effect. A start command is set in the RAM 303, and the effect selection process is terminated (step 2105).
Although not described in detail, in the symbol variation effect pattern selection process in step 2104, the effect mode, the variation pattern, and the effect random number (one of the random numbers updated in step 1801 in FIG. The production pattern is determined based on the random number value). Based on the effect pattern determined here, the decorative symbol variation display, the background effect, and the notice effect are determined. The decorative symbol variation display is an effect display performed by the image display unit 114 in accordance with the special symbol variation display performed by the first special symbol display 221 or the second special symbol display 222. In this variable display of decorative symbols, a reach effect or the like is executed.

FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing the contents of the changing effect end process (step 1907) of FIG.
In the process during the end of the change effect, the effect control unit 300 first analyzes the received change stop command (step 2201). Further, the effect control unit 300 refers to the current mode flag of the pachinko gaming machine 100 from the setting of the RAM 303 (step 2202). Then, the production control unit 300 determines whether or not the lottery result of the special symbol lottery is based on the information indicating the type of the symbol when the special symbol variation obtained from the analysis result of the variation stop command is stopped (big hit or small hit). It is determined whether or not (step 2203). If it is any hit (Yes in Step 2203), the mode flag set in the RAM 303 is changed based on the setting example shown in FIG. 20 according to the type of hit (Step 2204).

  On the other hand, when the lottery result of the special symbol lottery is not successful (No in Step 2203), the effect control unit 300 next checks whether or not the value of the mode flag is 0 (Step 2205). When the mode flag is not 0 (No in Step 2205), the effect control unit 300 subtracts 1 from the parameter M (Step 2206), and checks whether the value of M has become 0 (Step 2207). If the value of M becomes 0 (Yes in Step 2207), the effect control unit 300 sets the mode flag to 0 (Step 2208).

  If the mode flag is 0 in Step 2205 (Yes in Step 2205), if the value of the parameter M is not 0 in Step 2207 (No in Step 2207), or the mode flag is set to 0 in Step 2208 After or after changing the mode flag in step 2204, the effect control unit 300 sets a change effect end command for instructing the end of the effect of design variation in the RAM 303 as an effect instruction command, and ends the change effect. The middle process is terminated (step 2209). Here, referring to FIG. 20, when the mode flag is changed in step 2204, the effect mode after the end of the change effect is an effect mode corresponding to the winning type. When the mode flag is 0 in step 2205 and when the mode flag is set to 0 in step 2208, the effect mode after the end of the change effect is the A mode. If the value of the parameter M does not become 0 in step 2207, the previous production mode is continued.

FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing the contents of the hit effect selection process (step 1909) of FIG.
In the winning effect selection process, the effect control unit 300 first analyzes the received opening command (step 2301) and selects an effect pattern (winning effect pattern) according to the contents of the effect mode based on the mode flag (step 2301). 2302). Then, the effect control unit 300 reads out image data and sound data used for the effect by the selected effect pattern from the ROM 302 and, as these effect instruction commands, a hit effect start command for instructing the selected effect together with these data. The winning effect selection process ends (step 2303). As a result, the performance during the big hit is determined.

FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing the contents of the ending effect selection process (step 1911) of FIG.
In this ending effect selection process, the effect control unit 300 first analyzes the received ending command (step 2401), and selects an effect pattern (ending effect pattern) according to the contents of the effect mode based on the mode flag (step 2401). 2402). Then, the effect control unit 300 reads out image data and sound data used for the effect by the selected effect pattern from the ROM 302, and uses these data as an effect instruction command together with an ending effect start command for instructing the selected effect. To end the ending effect selection process (step 2403).

  When the command reception process is completed as described above, the RAM 303 is set with any one of a variation effect start command, a variation effect end command, a winning effect start command, and an ending effect start command.

  Thereafter, the effect control unit 300 performs the command transmission process (step 1812) of FIG. 18B, and performs the image / sound control of the effect instruction command set in the RAM 303 by the command reception process and the effect button process described above. To the unit 310 and the lamp control unit 320. The image / sound control unit 310 and the lamp control unit 320 then display the image on the image display unit 114, the sound output, the operation of the movable accessory 115, the panel lamp 116 and the frame lamp 157 based on the received instruction command. The set effect is executed by controlling the light emission and the like.

FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing the contents of the customer waiting command reception process.
The image / sound controller 310 determines whether or not a customer waiting command for shifting to the customer waiting state has been received (step 2501). When the customer waiting command is received (Yes in step 2501), the effect control unit 300 starts measuring the elapsed time (step 2502) and turns on the measurement flag in the RAM 303 (step 2503). On the other hand, when the received command is not a customer waiting command (No in Step 2501), the effect control unit 300 determines whether or not the measurement flag held in the RAM 303 is ON (Step 2504). If the measurement flag is OFF (No in step 2504), the customer waiting command reception process is terminated.

If the measurement flag is ON (Yes in step 2504 or ON in step 2503), the effect control unit 300 next determines whether or not the measurement time has reached a predetermined time-up time (for example, 30 seconds). Is determined (step 2505). If the time is not up (No in step 2505), the customer waiting command reception process is terminated. On the other hand, when the time is up (Yes in Step 2505), the effect control unit 300 turns off the measurement flag held in the RAM 303 (Step 2506), and starts displaying the menu screen (Step 2507). When this menu screen is displayed, the effect customization described later can be executed.
Here, a specific flow when the customer waiting command is received will be described. The image / sound control unit 310 starts displaying the menu screen when 30 seconds have elapsed after receiving the customer waiting command. If the effect button 161 is not operated even after 30 seconds have elapsed from the start of displaying the menu screen, the display of the menu screen is terminated. Further, the image / sound control unit 310 starts displaying the menu screen when the operation of the effect button 161 is confirmed even before 30 seconds have elapsed since the reception of the customer waiting command. Here, in a state where the menu screen is displayed, when 30 seconds have elapsed since the final operation of the effect button 161, the display of the menu screen is ended. When the effect screen 161 or the effect key 162 is operated while this menu screen is displayed, an effect customization screen is displayed by operating an effect customization button described later.

FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing the contents of the effect customization process (step 1812 in FIG. 18B).
In the effect customization process, the image / sound control unit 310 confirms a game level described later (step 2601). Next, the image / sound control unit 310 displays an effect customization screen that matches the effect customization that can be performed at the confirmed game level (step 2602). Then, it is determined whether or not there has been a change instruction operation for effect customization by the player (step 2603).

  If there is a change instruction operation for effect customization (Yes in step 2603), the image / sound control unit 310 further determines whether or not an operation for determining effect customization has been performed by the player (step 2604). If an operation instruction for determining the effect customization is performed (Yes in Step 2604), the image / sound control unit 310 changes and stores the changed effect customization content (Step 2605). In order to change the effect customization content, the effect customization change state is transmitted to the effect control unit 300 and the effect control unit 300 changes the effect content, and the image / sound control unit 310 changes the effect customization state. When there is an effect customization that stores and changes the content of the effect, and when the process of changing and storing the effect customization content is executed, the respective processes are executed.

  On the other hand, if the player does not give an instruction for determining the effect customization (No in Step 2604), the image / sound controller 310 determines again whether or not an instruction for changing the effect customization has been issued (Step 2603). .

  If it is determined that there is no instruction customization change instruction operation (No in step 2603), the image / sound control unit 310 determines whether or not the player has given an instruction customization initialization operation instruction (step 2606). If there is an instruction to initialize the effect customization (Yes in step 2606), the image / sound control unit 310 stores all the effect customizations currently stored in an off state (step 2607). Here, when the effect customization for changing the effect contents is performed in the effect control unit 300, the image / sound control unit 310 transmits a command for turning off the effect customization to the effect control unit 300. Further, when the effect customization for changing the effect contents is performed in the image / sound control unit 310, the image / sound control unit 310 simply stores the effect customization turned off.

  On the other hand, if the player does not give an instruction to initialize the effect customization (No in Step 2606), the image / sound controller 310 determines whether or not there is an instruction to return to the menu (Step 2608). If there is an operation instruction to return to the menu (Yes in step 2608), the image / sound control unit 310 discards the contents of the effect customization that has been instructed so far and returns to the menu screen (step 2609). ). On the other hand, when the operation instruction to return to the menu is not performed (No in step 2608), the image / sound control unit 310 repeats the determination as to whether or not there is an instruction customization change instruction operation (step 2603).

[Configuration of sub-control means for production and customization of production]
Here, the structure of the sub-control means for performing an effect will be described.
FIG. 27 is a diagram showing the configuration of the sub-control means.
As shown in FIG. 27, the sub-control means includes an effect control unit 300 that is a higher-level control unit, and an image / sound control unit 310 and a lamp control unit 320 that are lower-level control units. As described with reference to FIGS. 18 to 26, the effect control unit 300 acquires an effect control command from the game control unit 200, which is a game control means, and based on the content of the acquired effect control command, This is an effect control means for determining (selecting) and controlling an effect to be executed according to the state of the gaming machine 100. Then, the effect control unit 300 transmits an effect instruction command for executing the determined effect to the image / sound control unit 310 and the lamp control unit 320 according to the contents of the effect. The image / sound control unit 310 and the lamp control unit 320 perform an effect using an effect member such as an image, sound, a decoration lamp, and a movable accessory 115 based on the control of the effect control unit 300 that is an effect control unit. It is an execution means.

  The image / sound control unit 310 executes an effect by image or sound based on the effect instruction command acquired from the effect control unit 300. Specifically, the image / sound control unit 310 reads out an image (background image, character, decorative design, etc.) instructed by the effect instruction command from the ROM 312 (see FIG. 3), generates an effect image, and displays the image. Displayed on the unit 114. In addition, the image / sound control unit 310 reads out audio data (music, sound effects, lines, etc.) instructed by the effect instruction command from the ROM 312 and outputs it from the speaker 156 via an audio drive board (not shown).

  The lamp control unit 320 executes an effect by the light emission of the panel lamp 116 and the frame lamp 157 and an effect by the movable accessory 115 based on the effect instruction command acquired from the effect control unit 300. Specifically, the lamp control unit 320 reads the lighting / flashing pattern data and the light emission pattern data instructed by the effect instruction command from the ROM 322 (see FIG. 3), and based on the read pattern data, the electric decoration board (not shown) The panel lamp 116 and the frame lamp 157 are caused to emit light via. In addition, the lamp control unit 320 reads out the operation pattern data instructed by the effect instruction command from the ROM 322, and operates the movable accessory 115 via the accessory driving substrate (not shown) based on the read pattern data.

  The pachinko gaming machine 100 according to the present embodiment is configured to be able to change the specifications of the effect by accepting a change in the setting related to the effect. Here, as the change of the specification of the effect, a change of the execution mode of the effect by the image / sound control unit 310 and the lamp control unit 320 and a change of the determination content of the effect by the effect control unit 300 can be performed.

FIG. 28 is a diagram for explaining the change in the execution mode of the effect by the image / sound control unit 310.
A plurality of images that can be displayed on the image display unit 114 with an effect based on a certain effect instruction command are prepared. Specifically, FIG. 28A shows a background image that can be displayed on the image display unit 114 with an effect during the special symbol change (effect when changing) when a specific change pattern is selected in the special symbol change. As described above, it is assumed that the background image A and the background image B are held in the ROM 312 of the image / sound control unit 310. In a normal setting, when special symbol variation is performed according to the specific variation pattern, a variation effect using the background image A is performed as shown in FIG. On the other hand, when the setting change (effect customization) is performed and the special symbol variation is performed by the above specific variation pattern, the variation effect using the background image B is performed as shown in FIG. Is called. In this case, even if the contents of the effect instruction command output from the effect control unit 300 are the same, the effect to be executed (displayed effect image) differs depending on the setting of the image / sound control unit 310. It becomes.

In the above example, an example of changing the background image displayed on the image display unit 114 as a change in the execution mode of the effect has been described. Similarly, a character that appears in a specific effect is changed, or a special symbol is displayed. You may perform control which changes the design of the decoration design displayed on the image display part 114 at the time of a fluctuation | variation.
The same control can change the same setting (effect customization) for various effects executed by the image / sound control unit 310 and the lamp control unit 320. That is, a plurality of audio data that can be used in a scene where an effect based on the same effect instruction command is performed is prepared, and the image / sound control unit 310 selects one of the prepared audio data according to the setting. One can be selected and output. For example, voice data such as “tan” and “meow” is prepared as an operation sound indicating that the effect button 161 has been operated. Then, “tan” is set as a normal operation sound, and “meow” is set as an operation sound that can be set when setting is changed (production customization). The effect control unit 300 outputs to the image / sound control unit 310 and the lamp control unit 320 an effect instruction command that outputs an operation sound when the effect button 161 is operated. At this time, if the setting change (effect customization) has not been made, the image / sound control unit 310 receives the operation sound “Tan” as the operation sound based on receiving the effect instruction command for outputting the operation sound. Select and output. On the other hand, when the setting is changed (effect customization), the image / sound control unit 310 selects the operation sound “meow” as the operation sound based on receiving the instruction instruction command for outputting the operation sound. And output.
Similarly, a plurality of lighting / flashing pattern data and light emission pattern data that can be used in a scene where an effect based on the same effect instruction command is performed are prepared, and according to the setting, the lamp control unit 320 has a plurality of prepared The panel lamp 116 and the frame lamp 157 can be configured to emit light by selecting one of the pattern data. Also, a plurality of operation pattern data that can be used in a scene where an effect based on the same effect instruction command is performed is prepared, and the lamp control unit 320 selects one of the prepared pattern data according to the setting. Can be configured to activate the movable accessory 115.

FIG. 29 is a diagram for explaining the change in the content of the effect determined by the effect control unit 300.
In the pachinko gaming machine 100, under the control of the effect control unit 300, various effects are performed in various scenes based on predetermined effect execution conditions. For example, when a special lottery result advantageous to the player (for example, a big win) is determined in the special symbol lottery, the handle 151 is emitted with a predetermined probability when the special symbol changes, and the lottery result advantageous to the player is determined. There is a pachinko gaming machine 100 in which an effect (suggestion effect) for notifying that this has been done is performed. Whether or not to execute this type of effect is determined, for example, by a lottery performed by the effect control unit 300 in response to the determination that a specific lottery result is determined in the special symbol lottery. Specifically, when the production control unit 300 receives a production control command (for example, a change start command in this case) indicating that it has been determined as a specific lottery result from the game control unit 200, the production control unit 300 produces the production. A random number value for effect determination used for determining whether or not to perform is acquired. Then, with reference to a predetermined determination table in which the winning value is registered, it is determined whether or not an effect is to be performed (winned) based on the acquired random value. Therefore, even if the acquired random number values are the same, if the determination table to be referred to is different, the determination result as to whether or not to produce effects differs. This determination table is held in the ROM 302 of the effect control unit 300, for example.

  Therefore, as shown in FIG. 29, a determination table A in which the probability of determining that the suggestion effect of causing the handle 151 to emit light is executed in the ROM 302 is a predetermined probability, and the probability of determination of executing the suggestion effect is the determination table A. And a determination table B having a higher probability. In the example shown in FIG. 29, the determination table A has a range of possible random number values from 0 to 99, and the random number value (winning value) determined to execute the suggestion effect is from 0 to 49. If used, it is determined that the suggestion effect is executed with a probability of 1/2. On the other hand, in the determination table B, since the random value (winning value) determined to execute the suggestion effect is 0 to 89, using this determination table B, it is determined to execute the suggestion effect with a probability of 9/10. The

Then, it is possible to set whether the determination whether to perform the suggestion effect when the special symbol lottery is a specific lottery result is performed using the determination table A or the determination table B. For example, in the normal setting, the determination table A is used, and when the setting change (effect customization) is performed, the determination table B is used (the probability that it is determined that the suggestion effect is executed is increased). can do. Thereby, when the setting using the determination table B is performed, the suggestive effect is executed at a higher appearance rate than when the setting using the determination table A is used. Thus, it becomes possible to change the execution probability of the suggestion effect by the effect control unit 300 depending on the presence or absence of the setting change (effect customization), and the interest of the game is improved. Here, although the probability of executing the suggestive effect when using the determination table B is 9/10, it may be 10/10. By setting in this way, a suggestion effect that is executed only with a predetermined probability when it is won can be executed whenever it is won, and the fun of the game is further improved.
In the above example, two types of determination tables, determination table A and determination table B, are referred to in determining whether to execute the suggestion effect, but three or more types of determination tables are prepared and selected by setting. It may be possible.
As described above, when it is determined that the suggestion effect is executed by the effect control unit 300, the effect control unit 300 outputs an effect instruction command for executing the suggestion effect to the lamp control unit 320. Then, the lamp control unit 320 executes the suggestion effect that causes the handle 151 to emit light based on receiving the effect instruction command for executing the suggestion effect.

In the above example, the example of changing the probability of determining that the suggestion effect is to be executed has been described with respect to the suggestion effect suggesting that a special lottery result has been obtained in the special symbol lottery. In execution control (determination of whether or not to execute an effect, selection of an effect to be executed, etc.), it is possible to change the setting by applying the same configuration.
Further, in the above example, the execution probability of the suggestion effect that suggests the lottery result of the special symbol lottery by causing the handle 151 to emit light has been described. Settings such as selection of whether or not to generate sound effects and selection of the type of sound effects to be generated may be changeable. In this case, these setting changes are performed under the control of the image / sound control unit 310 and the lamp control unit 320 as described with reference to FIG.

  Furthermore, in the above example, the setting change of the probability of determining that the suggestion effect is executed when the special symbol lottery is a specific lottery result has been described. On the contrary, when the special symbol lottery is not the specific lottery result It is also possible to change the probability of performing the suggestion effect. That is, when the special symbol lottery is not a specific lottery result, a false (so-called “gase”) suggestive effect that the specific lottery result is a predetermined probability is performed, and a probability setting for determining that the suggested effect is performed is set. It can be changed. For example, when the special symbol lottery is a specific lottery result, an effect of displaying a specific effect image on the image display unit 114 as the suggestion effect is performed. And even if it is a case where special symbol lottery is not a specific lottery result, the suggestion effect which displays this specific effect image with a predetermined probability is performed. In this case, by changing the setting, the probability of performing the suggestive effect by the specific effect image when the special symbol lottery is not the specific lottery result is changed.

  The determination as to whether or not the false suggestion effect is performed is performed when an effect control command related to the execution condition of the effect is received from the game control unit 200, as in the determination of the suggestion effect described with reference to FIG. Based on the acquired random number for effect determination, the determination table is referred to. For example, a determination table C (not shown) in which the probability of determining that the suggestive effect is to be performed is a predetermined probability, and a determination table D (not correct) in which the probability of determining to perform the suggestive effect is lower than that of the determination table C. Prepare as shown.

  Here, for example, in the normal setting, when the special symbol lottery is not a specific lottery result, the determination as to whether or not the false suggestion effect is performed is performed using the determination table C, and the setting is changed. Is performed using the determination table D. In this way, when the setting is changed (when the determination table D is used), a false suggestive effect is performed with a lower probability than during normal setting (when the determination table C is used). The reliability of the suggestion effect (when the suggestion effect is performed, the probability that it is actually a specific lottery result) is increased.

[Production control based on game history]
Next, production control based on the game history will be described.
In the pachinko gaming machine 100, there is a case where the execution of effects is controlled based on a history such as the determination result of the special symbol lottery and the number of fluctuations of the special symbol. For example, a game point is acquired based on the number of special symbol lottery times or a specific variation effect is performed, a game level is determined according to the total game points acquired, and the setting change is performed according to the determined game level. Is possible. Also, a special effect is executed when a specific lottery result continues for a predetermined number of times in a special symbol lottery, or the probability of executing a special effect is increased when the number of fluctuations of the special symbol reaches a predetermined number. Is done.
In addition, there is a pachinko gaming machine 100 having a function of generating and outputting history information relating to games played by a player.
Therefore, in the production control unit 300 of the pachinko gaming machine 100, it is possible to take over the history (game history) in the previous game and control the production by accepting the setting based on the history information output previously.
As the game history, it is possible to use various game histories such as the determination result of the special symbol lottery, the number of changes of the special symbol, the image displayed on the image display unit 114, etc., but all the histories need Instead, it may be a part of the history specified in the game.

  The effect control unit 300 of the pachinko gaming machine 100 starts recording a game history (generation of game information) when a predetermined start condition is satisfied, and ends the recording of the game history when a predetermined end condition is satisfied. The generated history information is stored in the RAM 303 of the effect control unit 300, for example. For example, the start condition may be that a specific operation (start operation) by the player is accepted, and the end condition may be that the specific operation (end operation) by the player is received, for example. Specifically, for example, the image display unit 114 is operated by performing a predetermined operation using the effect button 161 or the like at a specific timing such as when a waiting state for a customer or when a special symbol is not variably displayed. In the menu screen displayed on the screen, it is possible to select the start of history recording (start operation) or select the end of history recording (end operation) by operating the effect button 161 or the like.

FIG. 30 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of a menu screen.
In the example shown in FIG. 30, a menu screen 500 displayed on the image display unit 114 has a button 501 for instructing start of game history recording (history information generation) and a button 502 for instructing end of game history recording. And a button 503 for shifting to a password input operation, a button 504 for shifting to a setting change (customization) operation of an effect, and a button 505 for instructing to end the menu screen 500. The player displays the menu screen 500 on the image display unit 114, operates the effect key 162, selects a desired button (one of buttons 501 to 505), and presses the effect button 161, for example. Instructs the selected button to execute the function. An operation for selecting and executing the button 501 on the menu screen 500 can be a start operation, and an operation for selecting and executing the button 502 can be an end operation. For example, by operating the effect key 162, selecting the button 505, and pressing the effect button 161, the operation on the menu screen 500 is ended and the menu screen 500 is deleted.

  When the start operation by the player is performed (when the start condition is satisfied), the effect control unit 300 of the pachinko gaming machine 100 clears the history information stored so far in the RAM 303 and the start operation is performed. The game history information is generated and stored in the RAM 303. Then, when an end operation is performed by the player (when the end condition is satisfied), the production control unit 300 ends the generation of the game information. Thereby, a game history based on the player's game from when the start operation is performed to when the end operation is performed is recorded.

  The history information stored in the RAM 303 of the effect control unit 300 can be output by displaying the history information on the image display unit 114, for example. Here, the output history information can be stored and stored in an external storage device (not shown). In this case, for example, instead of displaying the history information on the image display unit 114 as it is, it is possible to display code information including the history information. Specifically, for example, a code image such as a QR code (registered trademark) including history information is generated and displayed on the image display unit 114. Data that can be handled by an external device by photographing the displayed code image with a portable information terminal (such as a mobile phone) having a camera function, performing image processing, and reading information recorded in the code image This data can be stored in an external storage device. In the present embodiment, the configuration of the external storage device is not particularly limited. For example, software for analyzing the code image and managing the obtained history information may be introduced into a portable information terminal that captures the code image, and the portable information terminal itself may be used as an external storage device. In addition, a server as an external storage device may be provided on a network accessible by the portable information terminal, and history information may be managed by this server. Hereinafter, a case where history information is managed by a server will be described as an example.

  Here, in addition to the above history information, the code information can include individual identification information of the pachinko gaming machine 100 that generated the history information, information on the date and time when the history information was generated, and the like. In this way, based on the code information, it is possible to specify when and in which pachinko gaming machine 100 the history information included in the code information is generated. Further, when storing history information in the server, identification information of the portable information terminal that acquired the code information and authentication information of the user of the portable information terminal (that is, the player) may be stored in association with the history information. Thereby, in the server, the history information can be managed for each player and for each individual or model of the pachinko gaming machine 100 in which the history information is generated (that is, the game is performed).

Next, reception of setting of effect control based on history information in the pachinko gaming machine 100 will be described.
The history information acquired as described above is classified according to the game level. Then, it is considered that the production control can be set based on the achieved game level.
As an example, the game level is given based on the total value of the given points by giving game points (hereinafter simply referred to as “points”) according to the achievement level of the mission set based on the game history. It is possible to do. Specifically, for example, about the number of wins in the special symbol lottery, such as 10 points for 10 wins, 20 points for 20 wins, 40 points for 30 wins, 80 points for 40 wins, etc. The mission based on the lottery result of the symbol lottery can be set. Also, if the special symbol lottery (special symbol variation display) is performed 100 times, 10 points, 30 points if 500 times, 50 points if 1000 times, etc. Based missions can be set.

Furthermore, as a mission related to the special symbol lottery, if you win a jackpot before the special symbol lottery is held Y (1) times, you will win P (1) points, if you win the jackpot before it is played Y (2) times For example, if you set a mission such as P (2) points, or if you win a big win in a special symbol lottery under special conditions such as a specific gaming state or a specific performance, P (3) points etc. You may set a mission like this. Further, if a special effect such as a specific reach effect or a suggestion effect of a lottery result of a special symbol lottery by light emission of the handle 151 occurs, a mission related to the effect such as P (4) points may be set. good. Furthermore, if the date and time information acquired together with the history information is used and a certain mission is accomplished in D (1) days, P (d1) points are added to the points given by the achievement of the mission. Also good.
These missions are merely examples, and in addition to the above example, various missions can be set in association with the gaming state, the lottery related to the gaming state, effects, and the like.

  The points awarded by achieving the mission set as described above are accumulated in the server together with the history information. Therefore, every time a game is played, points are added according to the missions achieved. In this example, the history information is classified based on the total value of points accumulated in the server. Specifically, for example, the total value of points is level 1 up to 99 points, level 2 from 100 points to 299 points, level 3 from 300 points to 499 points, level 4, 800 from 500 points to 799 points. Class from point to 999 points is classified as level 5, 1000 points or more are classified as level 6 and so on. In other words, in this example, even if the types of missions achieved are various, if the total number of points awarded for accomplishing the mission is above a certain level, the game has progressed (the game level has increased). deal with.

  In the present embodiment, the effect control unit 300 of the pachinko gaming machine 100 is configured to be able to set the effect control according to the game level based on the history information (in the above example, level 1 to level 6). That is, in the present embodiment, an effect performed when the game level is level 1, an effect performed when level 2 is performed, an effect performed when level 3 is performed, an effect performed when level 4 is performed, An effect performed in the case of level 6 and an effect performed in the case of level 6 are prepared.

  The means for inputting game level information based on the history information to the pachinko gaming machine 100 can be configured to accept a setting input using, for example, a password. As an example, a password associated with each game level is set in advance. On the other hand, in the effect control unit 300, each password is associated with an effect corresponding to the game level associated with each password. Specifically, the password associated with level 1 is associated with the effect performed when the game level is level 1. Similarly, each password associated with each game level is associated with each effect performed when the game level is that level. And the production | generation control part 300 receives the input of a password, and performs the production matched with the input password. The password is input by, for example, displaying the password input screen on the image display unit 114 by selecting the button 503 on the menu screen shown in FIG.

FIG. 31 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of a password input screen.
In the example shown in FIG. 31, the password input screen 510 displayed on the image display unit 114 is used to select a password display area 511 for displaying a character string of the input password and a character to be input to the password display area 511. Character list 512, a button 513 for determining the character string displayed in the password display area 511 as a password, and a button 514 for ending the operation on the password input screen 510 and returning to the menu screen 500. Has been. For example, the player operates the effect key 162 to select a desired character from the characters presented in the character list 512, and presses the effect button 161 to display the selected character in the password display area 511. . Then, after the password character string is displayed in the password display area 511, the effect key 162 is operated to select the button 513, and the effect button 161 is pressed to determine (input) the password.

Here, the input password is provided from a server managing history information. When the server receives a password acquisition request from the player's portable information terminal, the server identifies the player's history information based on the identification information of the terminal itself and the player's authentication information, and from this history information, the player's game level And a password corresponding to the determined game level is returned. The player inputs the password returned from the server into the pachinko gaming machine 100 through input means such as the password input screen 510 shown in FIG.
Note that the number of passwords set for one game level is not limited to one, and a plurality of passwords may be used. In this case, even if any of a plurality of passwords associated with a certain game level is input, an effect corresponding to the corresponding game level is performed.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, it is possible to set the effect control based on the game level information in the player using the password set in association with the game level specified based on the history information. It was. In the present embodiment, history information relating to a game is generated and output, and can be stored in an external storage device such as a server. An external storage device such as a server manages and accumulates the acquired history information together with information on the player and information on the pachinko gaming machine 100 in which the game was performed. Based on the accumulated history information, a password for setting the effect control of the pachinko gaming machine 100 is specified. Thereby, in this Embodiment, the game history by the game until the last time can be taken over, and the production control of the pachinko gaming machine 100 can be set.

[Relationship between game history and production customization]
In the present embodiment, as an example of the setting of the effect control based on the game history, the item whose effect setting can be changed is changed according to the game level specified based on the history information. For example, as the number of games and the number of lotteries increase, selectable setting change items are increased. As described above, in the present embodiment, history information from a plurality of games can be accumulated and reflected in the game level. Therefore, as the number and time of games increase, selectable setting change items Increased possibility of increase.

FIG. 32 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of the customization screen.
In the example shown in FIG. 32, the customization screen 520 displayed on the image display unit 114 includes a level display field 521, a customization item list 522, a scroll bar 523, and a button 524 for determining customization (setting change). A button 525 for ending the operation on the customization screen 520 and returning to the menu screen 500, and a button 526 for returning the customized effect control setting to the initial state are displayed.

  In the level display column 521, the current game level is displayed. In the illustrated example, it is level 2. The display of the game level in the level display column 521 is specified based on the game level information obtained by the password input.

  In the customization item list 522, there are registered production control setting items (customization items) for which changeability is managed according to the game level. For each item, item number 522a, item type (name) 522b, A setting state 522c is displayed. In the example shown in FIG. 32, six types of customization items from No001 “customization A” to No6 “customization F” are shown. In the illustrated example, No. 001 “Customize A” is a customization item that can be selected when the game level is Level 1. Similarly, No002 “customization B” is a customization item that can be selected when the game level is level 2. No. 003 “Customize C” is a customization item that can be selected when the game level is level 3. No. 004 “Customize D” is a customization item that can be selected when the game level is level 4. No. 005 “Customize E” is a customization item that can be selected when the game level is level 5. No. 006 “Customize F” is a customization item that can be selected when the game level is level 6.

  In the setting state 522c of the customization item list 522, the setting change in the corresponding customization item can be selected. In the example shown in FIG. 32, since the game level is level 2 as displayed in the level display column 521, only No001 “customize A” and No002 “customize B” that can be selected in level 2 can be selected. (“ON” and “OFF” are displayed). For No003 “Customize C” to No006 “Customize F”, since setting change cannot be selected at level 2, it indicates which level can be selected (how much the game has advanced). A message is displayed.

  For example, the player operates a vertical key of the effect key 162 to select a desired customization item that can be changed in setting as a setting target, and then operates a horizontal key of the effect key 162. , “ON” and “OFF” displayed in the setting state 522c are selected. Here, “ON” is selected when the setting is changed, and “OFF” is selected when the setting is not changed. Therefore, in the example shown in FIG. 32, the setting change is selected for No001 “customization A” (ON), and the setting change is not selected for No002 “customization B” (OFF).

  The scroll bar 523 is used to display customization items that are not displayed on the customization screen 520. That is, in the example shown in FIG. 32, when there are customization items after No007, the customization items that are not displayed are displayed by changing the display range of the customization item list 522 by operating the scroll bar 523. Can do.

  The player operates the effect key 162 to select the button 524 and presses the effect button 161 to determine (input) the setting change selected by the operation on the customization item list 522. Further, the player operates the effect key 162, selects the button 526, and presses the effect button 161, thereby returning the setting of each customization item to the initial state (the state where the setting change is not selected). it can.

As described above, in the present embodiment, settings for effect customization are accepted according to the game level.
In the above example, one customization item that can be selected for each game level is set, but multiple customization items that can be selected when the game level reaches a certain level are set. May be.
Further, in the above example, selectable customization items are changed according to the game level (level 1 to level 6) managed by the server and based on the achievement level of the mission. On the other hand, the customization item may be changed according to a specific standard based on the achievement level of the mission (total value of points), etc., separately from the game level managed by the server.

  Further, depending on the contents of the setting that can be changed in the customization item, after the item is selected, a detailed setting in the item may be received. For example, as a customization item, when accepting a setting change of a sound effect used when performing a specific effect such as a suggestion effect that suggests a lottery result of a special symbol lottery by causing the handle 151 to emit light, a plurality of prepared It can be configured to accept selection of a desired sound effect from the sound effects. In this case, for example, when a customization item is selected on the customization screen 520 shown in FIG. 32 (setting state 522c is “ON”), a detailed setting screen for performing detailed setting of the customization item (for example, selection of the type of sound effect). (Not shown) can be displayed and a selection operation using the effect key 162 and the effect button 161 can be received.

[Notification of production customization]
In the present embodiment, as described above, a change in setting of effect control (effect customization) is accepted according to the game level. Here, you may comprise so that a player may be notified about the various information regarding production customization. Specifically, for example, it is conceivable to notify the display of the image display unit 114 that the game level has been updated (the level has been increased) by adding points due to the achievement of the mission during the game. In addition, it is conceivable to notify the customization item for which the setting change has been selected by displaying the image display unit 114 during the game.

FIG. 33 is a diagram illustrating a notification example of information related to effect customization.
In the example shown in FIG. 33, game level update information is displayed on the image display unit 114. Here, a message display area 530 is formed in the upper center of the screen of the image display unit 114, and as a result of increasing the points by achievement of the mission, the game level has been updated (leveled up), and there are customization items that can be selected. It has been reported that it has been added.

FIG. 34 is a diagram illustrating another notification example of information related to effect customization.
In the example shown in FIG. 34, information on the customization item for which setting change has been selected is displayed on the image display unit 114. Here, a message display area 540 is formed in the upper left corner of the screen of the image display unit 114, and it is notified that the customization A shown in FIG. 32 is selected.

[Control of production customization]
In the present embodiment, as described above, the setting change of the effect control is accepted according to the game level. As described with reference to FIG. 27 to FIG. 29, the effect control setting change by the effect control unit 300 is not necessary if the content of the effect customization changes the execution mode of the effect. This can be dealt with under the control of the image / sound control unit 310 and the lamp control unit 320. On the other hand, when the content of the effect customization is to change the content of the effect that changes the occurrence rate of the specific effect, the control of the effect control unit 300 responds.

  Further, as described with reference to FIGS. 30 and 32, the setting of the effect control is based on the setting screen (menu screen 500 and customization screen 520) displayed on the image display unit 114, and the effect button 161 and the effect key. This is done by operating 162. Here, as shown in FIG. 3, a signal indicating that the effect button 161 and the effect key 162 are operated is received by the effect control unit 300. Since the operation of the effect button 161 and the effect key 162 is performed on the setting screen displayed on the image display unit 114 by the image / sound control unit 310, the signal received by the effect control unit 300 is The image / sound control unit 310 is sent as it is. The image / sound control unit 310 receives the signal sent from the effect control unit 300 as a setting instruction input based on the setting screen.

  As described above, there are two types of effect control setting changes in the present embodiment, one for changing the execution mode of the effect and another for changing the contents of the effect. A setting instruction for changing the execution mode of the effect will be referred to as a first setting instruction, and a setting instruction for changing the determined content of the effect will be referred to as a second setting instruction.

  Here, in the setting change based on the first setting instruction, there is no change in the control in the effect control unit 300, and the effect displayed on the image display unit 114 based on the setting content in the execution of the effect by the image / sound control unit 310. Images, audio output music, sound effects, dialogue, etc. are changed. For example, if there is a setting change by the first setting instruction regarding the sound effect used in a specific effect, when the specific effect is performed, it is set not by the initially set sound effect but by the first setting instruction. The selected sound effect is selected and output. In addition, when the effect that is the target of the setting change based on the first setting instruction is related to the light emission of the panel lamp 116 or the frame lamp 157 and the operation of the movable accessory 115, the effect control unit 300 is switched from the image / sound control unit 310. Then, the changed setting content is notified to the lamp control unit 320. And in execution of the production | presentation by the lamp control part 320, the light emission aspect of the panel lamp 116 or the frame lamp 157, operation | movement of the movable accessory 115, etc. are changed based on setting content.

  On the other hand, in the setting change based on the second setting instruction, in the effect control by the effect control unit 300, the execution probability or the like of a specific effect executed in a specific scene is changed based on the setting content. For example, if there is a setting change according to the second setting instruction regarding the appearance rate of the effect that suggests the lottery result of the special symbol lottery during the change of the special symbol, whether or not the suggestion effect is performed using the determination table for setting change Is determined, and the appearance probability of the suggestive effect according to the lottery result of the special symbol lottery is changed.

FIG. 35 is a diagram for explaining a method for controlling effect customization by the effect control unit 300 and the image / sound control unit 310.
Referring to FIG. 35, in the present embodiment, first, image / sound control unit 310 acquires both the first setting instruction and the second setting instruction. Then, the image / sound control unit 310 changes the setting of the effect control based on the first setting instruction among the acquired setting instructions. In addition, the image / sound control unit 310 sends the acquired first setting instruction and second setting instruction to the effect control unit 300. The effect control unit 300 changes the setting of the effect control based on the second setting instruction among the setting instructions received from the image / sound control unit 310.

  If the production control is performed as described above, the production control unit 300 and the image / sound control unit 310 may set the production control based on a setting instruction that can be set among the obtained setting instructions. There is no need to determine the type (different between the first setting instruction and the second setting instruction). Unlike the above configuration, the image / sound control unit 310 distinguishes whether the acquired setting information is the first setting instruction or the second setting instruction, and sends only the second setting instruction to the effect control unit 300. It is also possible to do. In this case, for example, each setting instruction is provided with a flag or the like for identifying the first setting instruction and the second setting instruction, so that the image / sound control unit 310 distinguishes between the first setting instruction and the second setting instruction. It becomes possible to do.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, when changing the execution mode of effects such as switching between effect images and output sound, the image / sound control unit does not change the effect control by the effect control unit 300. An effect with a different execution mode is performed under the control of 310. This eliminates the need for the effect control unit 300 to control all the different effects, thereby reducing the burden on the effect control unit 300.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 ... Pachinko machine, 114 ... Image display part, 200 ... Game control part, 300 ... Production control part, 310 ... Image / sound control part, 500 ... Menu screen, 520 ... Customization screen

The present invention that achieves the above object is realized as the following gaming machine. This gaming machine
Game control means (200) for acquiring game information in response to establishment of the start condition and performing game control based on the game information;
Effect control means (300) for controlling execution of a game effect according to the progress of the game based on information relating to game control of the game control means (200),
Under the control of presentation by the presentation control means (300), demonstration execution means causes execution of the effect by directing means (310),
Production setting accepting means (161, 162, 310) for accepting a first setting instruction for instructing a setting relating to the execution mode of the production and a second setting instruction for instructing a setting relating to the control of the production to be performed;
Production setting change display means (310) for performing production setting change display ,
The production execution means (310)
When the rendering setup change display is carried out, the when the rendering setup acceptance means (161,162,310) accepting an the first setting instruction, execution mode of the effect based on the first setting instruction change the setting of,
The production control means (300)
When the rendering setup change display is carried out, when the by rendering setup acceptance means (161,162,310) accepting an the second setting instruction, setting of the effect control based on the second setting instruction Changing the
It is characterized by.
By adopting such a configuration, it is possible to change the effect by switching the effect image and the output sound by setting the effect execution means (310), so that the burden on the effect control unit 300 can be reduced. Become.

Claims (1)

Game control means for acquiring game information in response to establishment of the start condition and performing game control based on the game information;
Effect control means for controlling the execution of the game effect according to the progress of the game, based on the game control information of the game control means,
Based on the control of the effect by the effect control means, the effect execution means for executing the effect using the effect member,
Production setting accepting means for accepting a first setting instruction for instructing a setting relating to the execution mode of the effect and a second setting instruction for instructing a setting relating to the control of the effect to be performed,
The production execution means
When the first setting instruction is received by the effect setting receiving means, the setting of the execution mode of the effect is changed based on the first setting instruction, and the effect is executed according to the changed setting,
The production control means includes
When the second setting instruction is received by the effect setting receiving means, the setting of the effect control is changed based on the second setting instruction, and the effect control executed according to the changed setting is performed.
A gaming machine characterized by

Images