JP2016193281A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine capable of determining easily whether or not a plurality of performance members are normally actuating.SOLUTION: A game machine comprises: a plurality of performance devices to be used for a performance to be executed in accordance with the development of a game; setting means unable to be set while a player is playing a game; and special mode execution means for causing a special mode capable of performing a special control upon the performance devices to be executed in response to a setting operation for the setting means.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 14

Description

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

  A type of gaming machine (pachinko machine) performs a winning lottery (winning determination) based on the establishment of start conditions, and when winning a jackpot, a jackpot game with the opening of a big prize opening is executed as a kind of special game Is done. The player can obtain a large number of prize balls by winning the game balls at the big prize opening. The winning lottery result is stopped and displayed on the symbol display means after the symbol change display, and is shown to the player by the stopped symbol mode (stop mode).

  By the way, in general, an effect using a plurality of effect members is executed in the gaming machine in order to improve the interest of the game from the change display of symbols to the stop display. Therefore, if these effect members do not operate normally due to a failure or the like, the interest of the game is impaired. Therefore, it is necessary to always monitor whether or not each effect member operates normally.

  As a method for monitoring whether or not a plurality of performance members operate normally, generally, an initial operation process is performed in which the plurality of performance members are sequentially operated when power is turned on to the gaming machine. (For example, refer to Patent Document 1).

JP 2013-236681 A

  When the initial operation process is executed, the manager of the gaming machine can recognize the defect if any of the effect members has a defect. However, in the initial operation process, a plurality of effect members may be operated at the same time, and since different effect members are operated one after another, at first glance, whether or not each effect member has operated normally. It is difficult to judge.

  Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that can easily determine whether or not a plurality of performance members are operating normally.

  In order to achieve the above object, the gaming machine of the present invention includes a plurality of effect devices used for effects executed in accordance with the development of a game, setting means that a player cannot set during the game, and the setting Special mode execution means for executing a special mode capable of performing special control on the plurality of effect devices according to a setting operation on the means.

  Further, in the gaming machine having the above-described configuration, a sound output means that constitutes a part of the plurality of effect devices and that can output effect sound, and a volume adjustment that can adjust the sound volume of the effect sound output from the sound output means. Means for adjusting the volume during the game by the player, and second volume control means for the volume adjustment not possible during the game by the player. Preferably, the setting means is the second sound volume adjusting means.

  In the gaming machine configured as described above, it is desirable that the special mode is a mode in which an operation confirmation process can be executed for one or more effect devices among the plurality of effect devices.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to easily determine whether or not a plurality of performance members are operating normally.

Front view of gaming machine according to the present embodiment Schematic diagram showing the internal structure of the first grand prize opening Schematic enlarged view of the information display section in the gaming machine of FIG. Second front view of gaming machine according to the present embodiment Rear perspective view of gaming machine according to the present embodiment Block diagram of the part related to the control of the gaming machine according to the present embodiment A diagram listing some of the processes executed by the main control unit of the gaming machine Explanatory drawing of the judgment table per special figure in the main control part of the gaming machine The figure which shows the type of jackpot which concerns on this embodiment Transition diagram of gaming state according to this embodiment Explanatory diagram of multiple winning opening patterns Explanatory drawing of distribution member release pattern A diagram listing some of the processes executed by the effect control unit of the gaming machine A perspective view of the first volume control means Illustration of multiple initial operation patterns Illustration of initial operation selection screen Explanatory drawing of the operation check table in the production control unit of the gaming machine Explanatory drawing of the effect mode table per special drawing in the effect control unit of the gaming machine The figure which shows the example of a display of the image display part in probability change mode and chance mode The figure which shows the example of a display of the image display part in normal mode Transition diagram of effect mode according to this embodiment Explanatory drawing which shows an example of the image displayed on an image display part in an initial operation process and an operation check process in this embodiment Explanatory drawing of the first initial operation pattern according to the received command Eco-mode setting screen illustration

<< First Embodiment >>
Hereinafter, an example of an embodiment of the present invention will be specifically described with reference to the drawings. In each of the drawings to be referred to, the same part is denoted by the same reference numeral, and redundant description regarding the same part is omitted in principle. In this specification, for simplification of description, the names of information, signals, physical quantities, members, etc. corresponding to the symbols or signs are indicated by writing symbols or signs referring to information, signals, physical quantities, members, etc. Omitted or abbreviated.

  An embodiment suitable for a gaming machine according to the present invention will be described in detail. In this embodiment, the gaming machine according to the present invention is applied to a gaming machine (so-called digipachi) belonging to the former first type.

<< Basic configuration of gaming machine >>
FIG. 1 is a front view of a gaming machine 100 according to the present embodiment attached to the island structure HS. A basic configuration of the gaming machine 100 will be described with reference to FIG. The island structure HS is provided in the game hall and is a facility in which a plurality of game machines including the game machine 100 can be installed, and it relates to games such as game ball replenishment means and collection means, game ball polishing means, etc. for each game machine. It is a facility equipped with a system. The island structure HS is provided with a data lamp HT corresponding to each gaming machine installed on the island structure HS. The data lamp HT includes a liquid crystal screen. For example, a part of information provided from the gaming machine 100 is displayed on the liquid crystal screen to provide predetermined information to the player. The predetermined information provided to the player includes the current gaming state, the number of jackpots, the number of continuations, and the number of starts (for example, the number of lotteries after the previous jackpot). Further, the data lamp HT includes a call button (CALL button HU in FIG. 1) that can call a store clerk in the game hall, and is provided at both ends of the island structure HS by pressing the CALL button HU. The call lamp (not shown) is turned on to inform the game hall clerk that the CALL button HU has been pressed. As shown in FIG. 1, the data lamp HT is generally installed in the island structure HS so as to be positioned above the gaming machine 100, and the player turns his line of sight upward during the game with the gaming machine 100. Thus, the information displayed on the data lamp HT can be visually recognized, and the CALL button HU can be pressed by extending the hand upward. Note that up, down, left, and right refer to the top, bottom, left, and right viewed from the player facing the gaming machine 100 unless otherwise specified, and the vertical and horizontal directions are parallel to the board surface of the gaming machine 100. The vertical direction is parallel to the vertical direction, and the horizontal direction is parallel to the horizontal direction.

  The gaming machine 100 includes an outer frame 10 attached to the island structure HS, an inner frame 11 attached to the outer frame 10 so as to be opened and closed, and a door frame 12 attached to the inner frame 11 so as to be opened and closed. Prepare. The inner frame 11 is relative to the outer frame 10, and the door frame 12 is relative to the inner frame 11. The left side is the rotation base end side (opening / closing base end side) and the right side is the rotation leading end side (opening / closing distal end side). ) Is configured to be pivotable forward (openable and closable). The door frame 12 is attached to the inner frame 11 so as to cover the entire front side of the inner frame 11, but the door frame 12 can visually recognize almost the entire game area described later from the front (player side). Thus, the window part 12a formed by fitting the glass plate which has transparency is formed.

  The gaming machine 100 includes a game board 101. The game board 101 is detachably attached to the inner frame 11 and includes the components shown in FIG. At a lower position of the game board 101, a launching unit for launching a game ball is disposed (the detailed structure of the launching unit is not shown).

  In the gaming machine 100, the game ball launched upward by the driving of the launching unit rises between the rails 102a and 102b and reaches the upper position of the game board 101, and then in the game area 103 formed in the game board 101. Falls (flows down). The game area 103 is provided with a plurality of nails (not shown), and the game balls are dropped by the nails while changing the moving direction in an unspecified direction. Further, in the game board 101, a game ball drop path in the game area 103 includes a windmill (not shown) that changes the direction of the game ball fall, a first start port 105, a second start port 106, an electric tulip 107, A gate 108, a first grand prize opening 110, a second big prize opening 111, and a normal prize opening 112 are provided.

  An image display unit 104 composed of a liquid crystal display panel or the like is disposed at a substantially central portion of the game board 101. The image display unit 104 displays various effect images. For example, the image display unit 104 displays a decorative symbol provided corresponding to a special symbol for representing the lottery result of the winning lottery, and an image related to the effect that the gaming machine 100 performs until the winning lottery result is shown. Is displayed. The image display unit 104 may also display a symbol (ordinary decoration symbol) for representing a lottery result of the normal symbol lottery.

  A first start port 105 and a second start port 106 are installed below the image display unit 104. The start openings 105 and 106 form a start area through which game balls can pass (winning is possible). When the predetermined first start condition or second start condition is satisfied, the right to receive a winning lottery is acquired. The first and second start conditions are satisfied when the game ball passes through the start ports 105 and 106, that is, when the game ball wins (enters) the start ports 105 and 106, respectively. In addition, when the gaming machine 100 detects a winning game ball at the start port 105 or 106, the gaming machine 100 pays out a predetermined number (for example, three) of gaming balls. The game balls to be paid out are also called prize balls. The first start port 105 is a start port that is always open, whereas the second start port 106 is a start port that is opened only when the electric tulip 107 is operating. In the following description, the winning lottery based on the first starting condition established by winning the game ball at the first starting port 105 is referred to as “first special symbol lottery”, and the winning ball is won at the second starting port 106. The winning lottery based on the established second start condition is sometimes referred to as “second special symbol lottery”, and when it is not necessary to distinguish between the two, it is simply referred to as “winning lottery”. The winning prize may be read as winning.

  The electric tulip 107 is provided in the vicinity of the second starting port 106. The electric tulip 107 is in a closed state (a closed state) that makes it difficult to win the game ball to the second start port 106, and an open state (open state) that makes it easier to win the game ball in the second start port 106 than in the closed state. ) In either state. Switching between these states is performed by a solenoid 420 (see FIG. 6) included in the electric tulip 107. In effect, when the electric tulip 107 is in the closed state, it is impossible to win the game ball into the second starting port 106, and only when the electric tulip 107 is in the open state, the second starting of the game ball is started. Winning to the mouth 106 becomes possible. The opening of the electric tulip 107 is also referred to as the opening of the electric tulip 107. The electric tulip 107 is opened based on the lottery result of the normal symbol lottery performed when the game ball passes through the gate 108 arranged on the right side of the image display unit 104. Similarly to the start ports 105 and 106, the gate 108 also forms a start region through which game balls can pass.

  A first big prize opening 110 is provided on the upper right side of the first start opening 105 and the second start opening 106, and a second big prize opening 111 is provided below the first big prize opening 110. The first grand prize opening 110 and the second big prize opening 111 can also be opened and closed like the electric tulip 107. The first grand prize opening 110 has a closed state (a closed state) that makes it difficult for a game ball to win the first big prize opening 110, and an opening that makes it easier for the game ball to win the first big prize opening 110 than in the closed state. One of the states (open state) is taken. Also, the second grand prize opening 111 has a closed state (a closed state) that makes it difficult for a game ball to win the second big prize opening 111, and it is easier to win a game ball into the second big prize opening 111 than in the closed state. One of the open states (open states) to be taken is taken. The state of each special winning opening is switched by solenoids 421a and 421b (see FIG. 6) provided in each special winning opening. In effect, when each grand prize opening is closed, it is impossible to win a game ball at each big prize opening, and only when each major prize opening is open, It is possible to win a prize opening. The opening of the first big prize opening 110 and the second big prize opening 111 is also referred to as the opening of the first big prize opening 110 and the opening of the second big prize opening 111, respectively. The first grand prize winning opening 110 and the second big winning prize opening 111 are normally closed, and a predetermined condition (for example, 30 seconds have passed or 10 game balls have been won) when winning a big win in the winning lottery. The round in the open state is repeated a predetermined number of times (for example, 15 times) until it is satisfied. When the gaming machine 100 detects a game ball that has won the first grand prize port 110 or the second grand prize port 111, the gaming machine 100 pays out a predetermined number (for example, 15) of the prize balls. The first grand prize opening 110 and the second big prize opening 111 have different internal structures, and the first big prize opening 110 has a configuration in which the second big prize opening 111 is not provided.

<< Internal structure of 1st Grand Prize Winner >>
FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing the internal structure of the first big winning opening 110. The up-down direction and the left-right direction in FIG. 2 correspond to the up-down direction and the left-right direction in FIG. The internal area of the first big prize opening 110 is an area into which a game ball can enter when the first big prize opening 110 is in an open state. In FIG. 1, the first big prize opening 110 is in a closed state, and in FIG. 2, the first big prize opening 110 is in an open state. In the inner area of the first big winning opening 110, there are a specific area 141, a non-specific area 142, a first guide member 143 that guides the game ball that has entered the inner area of the first big winning opening 110 to the specific area 141, and a sorting member. 144 and a second guide member 145 that guides a game ball that has entered the inner area of the first big winning opening 110 and did not enter the specific area 141 to the non-specific area 142 is provided.

  The distribution member 144 is provided in the vicinity of the specific area 141, and the specific area 141 is an area that is opened only when the distribution member 144 is operating. The sorting member 144 is in a closed state (the state shown in FIG. 2A) that makes it difficult for the game ball to enter the specific area 141, and an open state that makes it easier for the game ball to enter the specific area 141 than in the closed state. One of the states (the state shown in FIG. 2B) is taken. Switching between these states is performed by a solenoid 422 (see FIG. 6) provided in the sorting member 144. Substantially, when the sorting member 144 is in the closed state, it is impossible to enter the game ball into the specific region 141, and only when the distribution member 144 is in the open state, the specific region of the game ball It is possible to enter 141. Opening the sorting member 144 is also referred to as opening the sorting member 144.

  When the sorting member 144 is in the closed state, the game ball is guided to the non-specific area 142 by the second guide member 145 without entering the specific area 141. The non-specific area 142 is an area that is always open, and a game ball guided to the non-specific area 142 enters the non-specific area 142. Although the details will be described later, the specific area 141 is a probability variation function operation switch. When a game ball enters the specific area 141, the gaming state of the gaming machine 100 thereafter is controlled to the high probability gaming state.

  One or more normal winning openings 112 are installed on the side or lower side of the image display unit 104. The gaming machine 100 pays out a predetermined number (for example, 10) of winning balls when detecting a winning at the normal winning opening 112. Note that the first start opening 105, the second start opening 106, the gate 108, the first big winning opening 110, the second big winning opening 111, and the normal winning opening 112 are not limited to the positions shown in FIG. It may be arranged at any position. At the bottom of the game area 103, game balls that have not won any of the first start opening 105, the second start opening 106, the first major winning opening 110, the second major winning opening 111, and the normal winning opening 112 are placed. A recovery port 113 for recovery is provided. An information display unit 114 is provided in the lower right part of the game board 101 (details will be described later). Note that the installation positions of the recovery port 113 and the information display unit 114 can be arbitrarily changed.

  As described above, the door frame 12 is formed with the window portion 12a, and the game machine 100 hits the window portion 12a (the outer peripheral portion of the door frame 12) until the gaming machine 100 shows the lottery result of the lottery. Various production members used for the are incorporated. As the effect member, the first speaker 115a, the second speaker 115b, and the third speaker 115c (hereinafter referred to as “speaker 115” when it is not necessary to distinguish between the speakers). .), The effect light unit 116, the first frame movable combination 117, and the second frame movable combination 118a (see FIGS. 1 and 4) are incorporated. The speaker 115 outputs sound used for production. The effect light unit 116 has a plurality of lamps and a plurality of motors, and the direction of light irradiation by the lamps can be changed up and down or left and right by driving the motors. Each movable frame accessory is a member that basically stands by at the reference position, and moves to the operating position when used for the production to constitute a part of the production. Details of the reference position and the operation position of each frame movable accessory will be described later.

  By the way, the movable combination used for the production is also provided on the game board 101, and in this embodiment, the movable board combination 130 (see FIGS. 1 and 4) is provided on the game board 101. The movable accessory 130 basically stands by at the reference position (position shown in FIG. 1), and slides downward from the reference position shown in FIG. To the front of the front) to form part of the production. When it is not used for production, as shown in FIG. 1, it is possible to prevent the player from visually recognizing the image display unit 104 by retreating to a storage space provided in the upper part of the image display unit 104.

  An operation handle 119 is arranged at the lower right position of the door frame 12. The operation handle 119 has a shape that protrudes toward the player, and a firing instruction member 120 is provided on the outer periphery thereof. The firing instruction member 120 is rotatably supported by the operation handle 119. When a player fires a game ball, the player rotates the firing instruction member 120 clockwise. At this time, the player can adjust the firing strength of the game ball according to the angle at which the firing instruction member 120 is rotated. When the player performs a right-handed game, which will be described later, the angle by which the firing instruction member 120 is rotated may be increased as compared with the case of performing a left-handed game. The operation handle 119 is provided with a sensor that detects that the player directly operates the firing instruction member 120. Only when the sensor detects that the firing instruction member 120 is directly operated by the player, the gaming machine 100 fires a game ball.

  Below the game area 103 in the door frame 12, an effect button 121, a cross key 122, an upper plate (hitting ball supply plate) 123, an upper plate lever 124, a lower plate (excess ball receiving plate) 125, a lower plate lever 126, and the like are provided. It has been. The effect button 121 and the cross key 122 constitute an operation accepting unit for accepting an operation from the player. The upper plate 123 has a shape that can accommodate a game ball, and sends the stored game ball to the launching unit. The upper plate lever 124 is means for sending out the game balls stored in the upper plate 123 to the lower plate 125. The lower plate 125 has a shape that can accommodate game balls that cannot be accommodated in the upper plate 123, and stores the game balls. The lower plate lever 126 is an opening means that opens a part of the lower surface of the lower plate 125, and the game ball stored in the lower plate 125 is moved below the lower plate 125 when the player operates the lower plate lever 126. It falls into the arranged box (a so-called dollar box not shown).

<< Information display section >>
As shown in FIG. 3, the information display unit 114 includes a special symbol display unit 201 that displays a special symbol indicating the lottery result of the winning lottery, a normal symbol display unit 202 that displays a normal symbol indicating the lottery result of the normal symbol lottery, A display unit 203, a round number display unit 204, and a right-handed display unit 205 are provided. Each display unit 201 to 205 can be formed by an LED (Light Emitting Diode) display.

There are first and second special symbols as special symbols. The special symbol display unit 201 includes a first special symbol display unit 201a that displays a first special symbol and a second special symbol display unit 201b that displays a second special symbol. The hold display unit 203 includes display units 203a, 203b, and 203c. The right of the first special symbol lottery (special symbol determination information described later) is reserved up to a predetermined number (for example, 4), and the number of the reserved rights is displayed on the display unit 203a as the number of reserved information U1. . The right of the second special symbol lottery (special drawing determination information described later) is reserved up to a predetermined number (for example, 4), and the number of reserved rights is displayed on the display unit 203b as the number of reserved information U2. . The right of the normal symbol lottery due to the game ball passing through the gate 108 is held up to a predetermined number (for example, 4) as the upper limit, and the number of the held rights is displayed on the display unit 203c as the hold information number U3.
<< Configuration example of movable accessory >>
FIG. 4 is a front view of the gaming machine 100 according to the present embodiment in which the frame movable combination 117, 118a, the effect button 121, and the panel movable combination 130 are activated (in the activated position).

  The first frame movable combination 117 is a foldable movable combination, and is provided one by one on the upper left and upper right of the door frame 12. The first frame movable accessory 117 provided in the upper left and upper right portions are arranged so that the left and right sides of the first frame movable accessory 117 are in contact with the door frame 12 at the reference position, respectively. In the operating position, the former is pivoted forward with the left side as the pivot base side and the right side as the pivot tip side, and the latter pivots forward with the right side as the pivot base side and the left side as the pivot tip side. Thus, the rotation leading end side of the first frame movable accessory 117 is a position protruding toward the player compared to the reference position. FIG. 1 shows a state where the first frame movable accessory 117 is in the reference position, and FIG. 4 shows a state where the first frame movable accessory 117 is in the operating position.

  As described above, the accessory storage unit 118 stores the second frame movable accessory 118a, which is a protruding movable accessory, and the second frame movable accessory 118a is stored in the accessory storage unit 118 at the reference position. Has been. The upper surface of the accessory storage unit 118 is configured to be openable and closable, and the second frame movable accessory 118a can be moved to the operating position by opening the upper surface. The second frame movable accessory 118a is in a position protruding upward from the accessory storage portion 118 in the operating position. FIG. 1 shows a state in which the second frame movable accessory 118a is at the reference position, and FIG. 4 shows a state in which the second frame movable accessory 118a is in the operating position. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 4, the accessory storage unit 118 is positioned substantially at the center above the door frame 12, and the data lamp HT is provided above the accessory storage unit 118 in the island structure HS. In this case, when the second frame movable accessory 118a moves to the operating position, the second frame movable accessory 118a covers at least a part of the data lamp HT as viewed from the player, and is displayed on the data lamp HT. It is difficult to visually recognize the information, and it becomes difficult to press the CALL button HU. Therefore, the accessory storage unit 118 is provided with a release button 118b for returning the second frame movable accessory 118a in the operating position to the storage position. By pressing the release button 118b, the second frame movable accessory 118a is provided. Can be returned from the operating position to the reference position. It should be noted that during a predetermined condition (for example, during a jackpot game (including a game involving the opening of the first grand prize winning opening 110 or the second big prize winning opening 111), or during an electric support game (a game involving the opening of the electric tulip 107). If the release button 118b is pressed to return the second frame movable accessory 118a from the operating position to the reference position, then the release button 118b is pressed again to press the second frame movable accessory. It may be possible to move 118a from the reference position to the operating position.

  Both the first-frame movable accessory 117 and the second-frame movable accessory 118a are in the operating position during the jackpot game and the electric support game (details will be described later), to the player and the store clerk of the game hall, It plays a role of notifying that the jackpot game and / or the electric support game is being played.

<< Configuration example of production buttons >>
The effect button 121 constitutes an operation accepting unit for accepting an operation from the player as described above, and has a property as a movable accessory. FIG. 1 shows a state where the effect button 121 is in the reference position, and FIG. 4 shows a state where the effect button 121 is in the operating position. The effect button 121 protrudes upward at the operating position, and can prompt the player to operate the effect button 121. In the present specification, the effect button 121 may be treated as a kind of movable accessory.

<< Back configuration of gaming machine >>
With reference to FIG. 5, the back side structure of the gaming machine 100 will be described. FIG. 5 is a rear perspective view of the gaming machine 100 showing a rear configuration of the gaming machine 100. On the back surface of the gaming machine 100, a main control board 301, a prize ball control board 302, an effect control board 303, a power board 304 that supplies power to each board in the gaming machine 100, an output terminal board 305, and the like are provided. ing. Those boards (particularly the effect control board 303) may be formed of a plurality of printed boards. Further, a power plug 315 for supplying power to the power supply board 304 and a power switch (not shown) are also provided on the back surface of the gaming machine 100. The main control board 301 is provided with a RAM clear switch (not shown). When the power of the gaming machine 100 is in the off state, the power is turned on by pressing the power switch while pressing the RAM clear switch, so that power is supplied to the gaming machine 100 and the RAM clear preparation state is entered. By pushing the switch, the game information of the gaming machine 100 can be initialized (RAM clear). When the power is turned on by pressing the power switch without pressing the RAM clear switch, the gaming machine 100 is controlled based on the gaming information of the gaming machine 100 before the power is turned off.

<< Supplement for production control board >>
The effect control board 303 is provided with a volume setting device (not shown in FIG. 5, see FIG. 14). The volume setting device is a volume adjusting unit that cannot be operated by the player, and is a volume adjusting unit that can be operated by the administrator of the gaming machine 100. Note that a volume control means that can be operated by the player is provided separately, which will be described later. The volume setting device provided on the effect control board 303 is, for example, 10 scales and is a cylindrical hard switch that can be rotated in 10 steps. Each scale includes predetermined setting information including setting information about the volume. Are associated. Details of the process (volume setting process) executed according to the set scale will be described later.

<< Supplementary information on power supply boards >>
The power supply board 304 is provided with a power-off monitoring circuit (not shown) that is connected to the power switch and outputs a power-on signal or a power-off signal to the main control board 301 in accordance with the ON / OFF switching of the power switch. The main control board 301 can monitor whether or not the gaming machine 100 is powered off based on the power ON signal and the power OFF signal input from the power board 304. The power supply board 304 is connected to a RAM clear switch. When the RAM clear switch is turned ON, an L level RAM clear signal is output to the main control unit 301 and the RAM clear switch is turned OFF (ON operation). And a RAM clear switch monitoring circuit (not shown) for outputting an H level RAM clear signal to the main control unit 301 is provided. The main control board 301 executes a power-on process in a main process (see FIG. 7) described later based on the power ON signal and the RAM clear signal input from the power board 304.

<< Basic operation of gaming machine >>
Next, the basic operation of the gaming machine 100 will be described. When the first or second start condition is established, the gaming machine 100 acquires special figure determination information according to the establishment timing and performs a winning lottery based on the special figure determination information. Acquisition of special figure determination information corresponds to acquisition of the right to win a lottery. In the winning lottery, it is determined whether or not a win is won (whether or not a big win or lost). In some cases, the winning of a jackpot is expressed as the occurrence of a jackpot. When the first special symbol lottery is performed, the gaming machine 100 variably displays the first special symbol on the first special symbol display unit 201a. Then, after a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the variable display, the first special symbol is stopped and displayed with a symbol indicating the lottery result of the first special symbol lottery (that is, in a mode indicating the lottery result of the winning lottery). On the other hand, when the second special symbol lottery is performed, the gaming machine 100 variably displays the second special symbol of the second special symbol display unit 201b. Then, after a lapse of a predetermined time from the start of the variable display, the second special symbol is stopped and displayed with a symbol indicating the lottery result of the second special symbol lottery (that is, in a mode indicating the lottery result of the winning lottery).

  When the gaming machine 100 displays the special symbol (first or second special symbol) in a variable manner, the gaming machine 100 displays the decorative symbol in a variable manner on the image display unit 104, and stops the decorative symbol in accordance with the stop display of the special symbol. Display. The decorative symbols displayed on the image display unit 104 include first to third decorative symbols, and each decorative symbol is associated with a numerical value or a symbol.

  When the winning lottery result is a jackpot, the first to third decorative symbols are stopped and displayed in a combination indicating a jackpot (for example, a so-called double eye such as “7, 7, 7”). The combination of the first to third decorative symbols that are stopped and displayed varies depending on the type of jackpot that has been won. For example, in the case of winning per 13R probability variation length or 16R probability variation length (see FIG. 9), which will be described later, each decoration symbol is displayed as a red decoration symbol (for example, “3” per 13R probability variation length or 16R probability variation length). , 3,3 "or" 7,7,7 "in the symbol pattern). In the case of winning per 13R normal length, which will be described later, each decorative symbol is a blue decorative symbol (for example, “3, 3, 3” or “7, 7, 7” other than “7, 7, 7”). Stop display at the left side of). Even when winning per 13R probability variation length or per 16R probability variation length, the blue decorative pattern is stopped and displayed on the image display unit 104, and thereafter (for example, before the jackpot game transition or after the jackpot game transition) , A promotion effect that clearly indicates that it is per 13R probability variation length or per 16R probability variation length may be performed.

  If the winning lottery result is lost (ie, if the winning lottery is lost, in other words, if the winning lottery is not won), the first to third decorative symbols stop, for example, at a so-called break-off indicating lost Display. The loose eye corresponds to stopping the first decorative symbol and the second decorative symbol with an unrelated symbol, and is a decorative pattern stop mode that does not develop into reach production.

  When the special symbol is stopped and displayed with the combination indicating the jackpot, the gaming machine 100 enters the jackpot gaming state. In the jackpot game state, a jackpot game is performed in which one or both of the first jackpot 110 and the second jackpot 111 are opened in a round corresponding to the winning jackpot (for example, 16 rounds). When a game ball wins an open big winning opening while any of the big winning openings is open, the gaming machine 100 pays out a predetermined number of winning balls. During the jackpot game, no lottery will be performed. The jackpot gaming state ends when the first round winning opening 110 or the second big winning opening 111 for the winning round is completed. In the jackpot game state, the game is played by right-handed. “Right hit” means that a game ball is launched into a game area on the right side of the center line that divides the game area 103 left and right in the game area 103. On the other hand, left-handed strike means that a game ball is launched into the game area on the left side of the center line in the game area 103. In the left-handed strike, the second starting opening 106, the first big winning opening 110, and the second A game ball cannot be awarded to the two major winning holes 111. The jackpot game state is a game state that is more advantageous to the player than the normal game state (in other words, the jackpot game is more advantageous to the player than the game in the normal game state). The advantage in the jackpot game is that the player can easily obtain more prize balls as the first big prize opening 110 and the second big prize opening 111 are opened as compared to the game in the normal gaming state (the prizes obtained). The expected value of the sphere is large).

  After the big hit game is over, the gaming machine 100 returns to a state in which a winning lottery is performed. At that time, the gaming machine 100 can change the gaming state.

<< Game state of gaming machine >>
The gaming machine 100 is a normal gaming state that is a low-probability non-electric support game state, except for a gaming state (including a jackpot gaming state) with the opening of the first big winning port 110 and / or the second big winning port 111. Any one of the low-probability electric support game state and the high-probability electric support game state that should be called a probability variation game state is taken. The electric support is an abbreviation for an electric chew support function, and details will be described later.

  The normal gaming state and the low probability electric support gaming state belong to the low probability gaming state. In the low-probability gaming state, the gaming machine 100 performs a winning lottery using a low-probability special figure determination table (see table TAt1 in FIG. 8 described later). In the present embodiment, as an example, it is assumed that a winning lottery for winning a jackpot with a probability of 11/4399 is performed.

  The high probability electric support game state belongs to the high probability game state. In the high-probability gaming state, the gaming machine 100 performs a winning lottery using a high-probability special figure determination table (see table TAt2 in FIG. 8 described later). In this embodiment, as an example, it is assumed that a winning lottery for winning a jackpot with a probability of 40/4399 is performed. That is, in the high probability gaming state, the jackpot is won with a four times higher probability than in the low probability gaming state. Therefore, the high probability gaming state is more advantageous to the player than the low probability gaming state for the jackpot winning.

  The low probability electric support game state and the high probability electric support game state belong to the electric support game state. In the electric support game state, the gaming machine 100 provides a game support function (hereinafter referred to as “electric support”) that involves opening and closing the electric tulip 107 (that is, the electric support is activated). The specific contents of the electric support will not be described in detail because it is a publicly known technology. For example, when the electric support is given, the fluctuation time of the normal symbol is shortened compared to when the electric support is not provided, A non-electric support game in which an electric support is not given in an electric support game state, in which an increase in the probability of winning a lottery (and thus an increase in the opening frequency of the electric tulip 107) and an increase in the opening time of the electric tulip 107 are achieved. Compared to the state, it becomes easier for the game ball to win the second starting port 106. In the electric support game state, a game is played by the above-mentioned right strike, and the winning of the winning lottery is a prize at the second start opening 106. The game area 103 is provided with nails and obstacles so that a game ball launched during a right-handed game is not awarded to the first start opening 105, and the first start condition is satisfied during the right-handed game. do not do.

  The normal gaming state (low probability non-electric support game state) belongs to the non-electric support game state where no electric support is given. In the non-electric support game state, the game is performed by left-handed as described above, and the winning lottery is mainly a winning to the first start opening 105. As understood from the above description, the electric support game state is a game state in which the start condition (second start condition) is more easily established than the non-electric support game state. Therefore, the electric support game state is more advantageous to the player than the non-electric support game state with respect to the ease of establishment of the start condition.

<< Internal structure of gaming machine >>
With reference to FIG. 6, the internal structure of the gaming machine 100 will be described. FIG. 6 is a block diagram of a part related to control in the gaming machine 100. As shown in FIG. 6, the control unit 400 provided in the gaming machine 100 includes a main control unit 401 that controls the progress of the game, a prize ball control unit 402 that controls the payout of prize balls, and an effect that controls the contents of the effect. And a control unit 403. In addition to the control unit 400, each component shown in FIG. 6 is provided in the gaming machine 100. For example, the main control board 301, prize ball control board 302, and effect control board 303 in FIG. 5 form the main control section 401, prize ball control section 402, and effect control section 403 in FIG. 6, respectively, and the output in FIG. The terminal board 305 includes the board external information terminal board 491 of FIG.

[1. Main control unit]
The main control unit 401 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 411, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 412, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 413, an input / output interface (I / O) (not shown), and the like. The The CPU, ROM, and RAM in the main control unit 401 are also referred to as a main CPU, a main ROM, and a main RAM, respectively. The main CPU 411 reads various programs related to the progress of the game from the main ROM 412 and executes the read program using the main RAM 413 as a work area. As shown in FIG. 6, the main ROM 412 stores tables TAt, TZt, THt, FAt, FZt, FHt, DKt, and FBt, and the main RAM 413 includes storage areas 413a to 413j. In addition to this, various tables can be stored in the main ROM 412, and various storage areas can be provided in the main RAM 413.

  The main controller 401 is connected to various switches (hereinafter abbreviated as “SW”) for detecting a game ball. For example, as shown in the figure, the main control unit 401 has a first start port SW 414 a that detects a game ball won in the first start port 105 and a second start that detects a game ball won in the second start port 106. A mouth SW 414 b, a gate SW 415 for detecting a game ball that has passed through the gate 108, a first grand prize opening SW 416 a for detecting a game ball that has won a prize in the first big prize opening 110, and a game that won a prize in the second big prize opening 111 A second big prize opening SW416b for detecting a ball, a normal prize opening SW417 for detecting a game ball won in the normal prize opening 112, a specific area SW418a for detecting a game ball entered in the specific area 141, and a non-specific area The non-specific area SW 418b for detecting the game ball that has entered the ball 142, and the total number of game balls that have won the game winning ports (winning ports 105, 106, 110, 111, and 112) are detected. Frame count SW419 is connected to that. In addition, the game balls won in each winning opening are configured to pass through a specific game ball flow path inside the gaming machine 100, and the frame count SW 419 is provided in the specific game ball flow path, It is possible to detect the total number of game balls won in the winning opening.

  Each of SW 414a, 414b, 415, 416a, 416b, 417, 418a, 418b, and 419 outputs a detection signal indicating whether or not a game ball has been detected to the main control unit 401. Based on the input detection signal, special figure determination information corresponding to the right to receive a winning lottery is stored, a winning lottery is performed using the special figure determining information, the prize ball control unit 402 Instructions for paying out prize balls. As the SWs 414a, 414b, 415, 416a, 416b, 417, 418a, 418b, and 419, proximity switches or the like can be employed. Further, when a plurality of first start ports 105 are provided on the game board 101, a first start port SW 414 a is provided for each of the plurality of first start ports 105. The same applies to the case where a plurality of the second start opening 106, the gate 108, the first big winning opening 110, the second big winning opening 111, and the normal winning opening 112 are provided.

  The main control unit 401 is connected to various solenoids that drive the electric combination on the game board 101. For example, as shown in the figure, the main control unit 401 includes an electric tulip solenoid 420 that opens and closes the electric tulip 107, a big prize opening solenoid 421a that opens and closes the first big prize opening 110, and a second big prize opening 111. Are connected to a prize winning port solenoid 421b for opening / closing and a sorting solenoid 422 for opening / closing the sorting member 144. The main control unit 401 inputs or does not input an electric signal to the electric tulip solenoid 420 based on the lottery result of the normal symbol lottery, and inputs an electric signal to the big prize opening solenoids 421a and 421b based on the lottery result of the winning lottery or Not input. Solenoids 420, 421a, 421b, and 422 convert the electric signal supplied from the main control unit 401 into a mechanical motion, thereby opening and closing the electric tulip 107, opening and closing the first big prize opening 110, The opening / closing operation of the second big prize opening 111 and the opening / closing operation of the sorting member 144 are performed.

  Further, the main control unit 401 is connected to a magnetic detection SW 423a that detects magnetism. The magnetic detection SW 423a is provided, for example, on the back side of the game board 101 and in the vicinity of the first start port 105 and the second start port 106 in the game area 103, and detects a magnetic change. The main control unit 401 is connected to a solenoid photosensor 423b that detects the timing at which the sorting member 144 is actually operated by the sorting solenoid 422. Based on the timing at which an electric signal is input to the sorting solenoid 422 and the timing at which the sorting member 144 is operated by the solenoid photosensor 423b, the main control unit 401 appropriately (that is, designates the sorting member 144). It is possible to determine whether or not it is operating (at the same timing).

  Also, various display units in the information display unit 114 of FIG. 3 are connected to the main control unit 401 (however, the display units 204 and 205 are not shown in FIG. 6). The main control unit 401 performs display control of the first special symbol display unit 201a or the second special symbol display unit 201b based on the lottery result of the winning lottery, and display control of the normal symbol display unit 202 based on the lottery result of the normal symbol lottery. I do. Furthermore, the main control unit 401 controls the display content of the hold display unit 203 based on the number of hold information U1, U2, and U3.

[1-1. Main processing]
FIG. 7 lists the main processes performed by the main control unit 401. In the main process, the main CPU 411 sequentially executes a power-on process and a power-off process.

[1-1-1. Power-on processing]
The power-on process will be described (see FIG. 7). In the power-on process, the main CPU 411 performs initial setting of built-in devices such as a CTC (timer counter) of the main control unit 401 and stores setting information indicating setting contents in the setting storage area 413a. For example, the setting information includes information indicating a cycle for executing a timer interrupt process to be described later.

  In the power-on process, the main CPU 411 determines the level of the RAM clear signal (H level or L level) when the power ON signal is input from the power board 304, and the RAM clear signal level. Is at the H level (ie, the RAM clear switch is not turned ON), the stored contents of the main RAM 413 are maintained, and the power-on command is set in the RAM 413. On the other hand, when the RAM clear signal level is L level (that is, the RAM clear switch is turned on), the stored contents of the main RAM 413 are erased (initialized), and a RAM clear command is set in the main RAM 413. Further, in the power-on process, the main CPU 411 sets an initial operation command in the main RAM 413 together with a power-on command or a RAM clear command. When the effect control unit 403 receives the initial operation command from the main CPU 411, the effect control unit 403 executes initial operation processing of a plurality of effect members in response to the initial operation command. Details of the initial operation process will be described later.

[1-1-2. Power-off processing]
The power-off process will be described (see FIG. 7). In the power-off process, the main CPU 411 generates backup information and stores the backup information in the backup storage area 413b. The main RAM 413 is supplied with power by a backup power source (not shown) even if the gaming machine 100 is powered off for a certain period (for example, one day). For this reason, the main RAM 413 can hold the backup information stored in the backup storage area 413b for a certain period even if the gaming machine 100 is powered off.

[1-2. Timer interrupt processing]
The main CPU 411 interrupts and executes a timer interrupt process for the main process at a period (for example, a period of several milliseconds or less) stored in the setting storage area 413a by the main process (see FIG. 7). In the timer interrupt process, the main CPU 411 sequentially executes a random number update process, a switch process, a special symbol process, a customer waiting setting process, a normal symbol process, an electric accessory control process, a prize ball process, and an output process.

[1-2-1. Random number update processing]
The random number update process will be described (see FIG. 7). In the random number update process, the main CPU 411 updates the count value of each random number counter by adding “1” to the count value of each random number counter stored in the counter storage area 413c. The counter storage area 413c includes a main control unit 401 that includes a random number counter C1 per special figure, a special figure random number counter C2, a special figure variation pattern random number counter C3, a random number counter C4 per common figure, and a general figure random number counter C5. The count values of various random number counters to be managed are stored. The counters C1 to C5 respectively count a random number per special figure, a special figure random number, a special fluctuation pattern random number, a random number per common figure, and a common figure random number. In the random number update processing, the main CPU 411 returns the count value of the counter to “0” when the count value of any one of the random number counters C1 to C5 exceeds a predetermined upper limit value, and thereafter the same Count up. Here, for example, it is assumed that a random number per special figure, a special figure random number, and a special figure variation pattern random number are counted within the ranges of “0-4398”, “0-99”, and “0-499”, respectively. The random numbers per common figure and the random numbers of common symbols are counted within a range of “0 to 9”, for example. Note that the arbitrary random number in the present embodiment takes only an integer value unless otherwise specified.

[1-2-2. Switch processing]
The switch process will be described (see FIG. 7). In the switch process, the main CPU 411 performs a start opening switch process, a gate switch process, a first grand prize opening switch process, a second big prize opening switch process, a normal winning opening switch process, a specific area switch process, and a non-specific area switch process. Run sequentially.

  The start port switch process includes first and second start port switch processes (see FIG. 7). In the first start port switch process, the main CPU 411 establishes the first start condition based on the timing at which the first start port SW 414a detects a game ball that has won the first start port 105 (that is, based on the winning to the start port 105). Timing), the count values of the random number counter C1, the special symbol random number counter C2, and the special symbol variation pattern random number counter C3 in the counter storage area 413c are acquired, and the acquired count values of the counters C1 to C3 are displayed as the special values. Special figure determination information (special figure holding information) including hit random numbers, special figure random numbers, and special figure fluctuation pattern random numbers is stored in the special figure determination information storage area 413d of the main RAM 413. In the second start port switch process, the main CPU 411 establishes the second start condition based on the timing at which a game ball winning the second start port 106 is detected by the second start port SW 414b (that is, based on the winning to the start port 106). Timing), the count values of the random number counter C1, the special symbol random number counter C2, and the special symbol variation pattern random number counter C3 in the counter storage area 413c are acquired, and the acquired count values of the counters C1 to C3 are acquired per special symbol. Special figure determination information (special figure hold information) included as a random number, special figure design random number and special figure variation pattern random number is stored in the special figure determination information storage area 413d of the main RAM 413.

  The special figure determination information storage area 413d stores special figure determination information based on establishment of the first start condition and special figure determination information based on establishment of the second start condition, with a predetermined number as an upper limit. it can. Here, it is assumed that the predetermined number is four. Therefore, up to eight pieces of special figure determination information can be stored in the storage area 413d. The number of special figure determination information triggered by the establishment of the first and second start conditions in the storage area 413d corresponds to the above-described numbers of hold information U1 and U2, respectively. Further, a priority order for receiving a winning lottery is set for each special figure determination information stored in the storage area 413d. Basically, a higher priority is set for the special figure determination information acquired earlier in time. However, a higher priority is set for the special figure determination information acquired when the second start condition is satisfied as compared to the special figure determination information acquired when the first start condition is satisfied ( That is, the second special symbol lottery has priority over the first special symbol lottery). The prior determination process executed in the start port switch process will be described later.

  In the gate switch process (see FIG. 7), the main CPU 411 detects the game random number counter C4 and the general symbol random number counter C5 in the counter storage area 413c at the timing when the game ball that has passed through the gate 108 is detected by the gate SW415. Obtains the count value, and stores the information for determining the usual figure (ordinary figure holding information) including the obtained count values of the counters C4 and C5 as the random numbers per common figure and the common symbol random numbers, and stores the information for the usual figure determination in the main RAM 413. It memorize | stores in the area | region 413i. The common figure determination information storage area 413i can store the common figure determination information with a predetermined number as an upper limit. Here, it is assumed that the predetermined number is four. The number of general-purpose determination information in the storage area 413i corresponds to the above-described reserved information number U3. Priorities for receiving the normal symbol lottery are set for each of the information for determining ordinary symbols stored in the storage area storage area 413i. A higher priority is set for the information for determining ordinary drawings acquired earlier in time.

  In the first big prize opening switch process (see FIG. 7), the main CPU 411 detects a game ball that won the first big prize opening 110 by the first big prize opening SW416a. In the second big prize opening switch process (see FIG. 7), the main CPU 411 detects the game ball that won the second big prize opening 111 by the second big prize opening SW416b. In the normal winning opening switch process (see FIG. 7), the main CPU 411 detects a game ball won in the normal winning opening 112 by the normal winning opening SW417. In the specific area switch process, the main CPU 411 detects a game ball that has entered the specific area 141 by using the specific area SW 418a. In the non-specific area switch process, the main CPU 411 detects a game ball that has entered the non-specific area 142 using the non-specific area SW 418b.

[1-2-3. Special design processing]
The special symbol process will be described (see FIG. 7). In the special symbol process, the main CPU 411 executes special symbol determination. The special figure determination includes a special figure determination, a special symbol design determination, and a special graphic fluctuation pattern determination. The above winning lottery may include special figure determination and special symbol determination, and may further include special figure variation pattern determination. Therefore, the special figure determination may be considered to include a winning lottery, or the special figure determination and the winning lottery may be considered to be equivalent to each other. In the special symbol processing, the main CPU 411 sequentially executes determination per special symbol, special symbol determination and special symbol variation pattern determination using the special symbol determination information stored in the special symbol determination information storage area 413d. These determination results are stored in the special figure determination result storage area 413e. Then, after the special symbol fluctuation display is performed for the fluctuation time indicated by the special figure fluctuation pattern selected by the special figure fluctuation pattern judgment, the special symbol is stopped at the symbol indicating the judgment result of the special figure judgment and the special symbol judgment. Let

  When the main CPU 411 starts the variation display of the special symbol, the main CPU 411 sets a variation start command including the determination result of the special symbol determination, the special symbol determination, and the special symbol variation pattern determination in the main RAM 413, so On the other hand, when the execution of the variation effect is instructed and the variation of the special symbol is stopped, the variation control command is set to the main RAM 413 to instruct the effect control unit 403 to end the execution of the variation effect. In addition, when the result of the special figure hit determination indicates that the jackpot is won, the main CPU 411 sets an opening command in the main RAM 413 following the change stop command, thereby causing the effect control unit 403 to correspond to the jackpot. When the jackpot game ends, an ending command is set in the main RAM 413 to instruct the effect control unit 403 to end the execution of the effect associated with the jackpot. These commands are output to the effect control unit 403 in an output process (see FIG. 7) described later.

  In the special symbol process, the main CPU 411 acquires the special figure determination information set with the highest priority in the special figure determination information storage area 413d as the determination target (the determination target) TT, and the special CPU determines the special target of the determination target TT. By using the information for figure determination, judgment per special figure, special figure design judgment and special figure variation pattern judgment are sequentially executed. The special figure determination information that is the determination target TT is erased from the storage area 413d (hence, the hold information U1 or U2 is decreased by 1) and transferred to another storage area (not shown). In the special symbol processing, when the special symbol determination information is not stored in the storage area 413d, the special symbol processing is finished without performing the special symbol determination.

  In the special symbol process, the main CPU 411 first makes a per-special symbol determination that involves a comparison between the special symbol determination table TAt stored in the main ROM 412 and a random number per special symbol of the determination target TT.

  As shown in FIG. 8, the determination table TAt per special figure includes a determination table TAt1 per low probability special figure and a determination table TAt2 per high probability special figure. Each of the tables TAt1 and TAt2 has a predetermined determination value associated with the jackpot.

  When the high probability game flag is set to OFF at the time of determination per special figure (that is, at the time of winning lottery), the main CPU 411 performs determination per special figure using the table TAt1, and the high probability game flag is turned ON. If it has been set, judgment per special figure is performed using the table TAt2. Then, the main CPU 411 determines that the jackpot has been won if the random number per special figure of the determination target TT matches the determination value associated with the jackpot, and if not, the main CPU 411 has lost (that is, won the jackpot) Not). The gaming state of the gaming machine 100 is a high probability gaming state when the high probability gaming flag is ON, and a low probability gaming state when the high probability gaming flag is OFF. Here, the determination table TAt per special figure is formed so that the winning probability of winning the jackpot (winning probability of winning the lottery) becomes 11/4399 and 40/4399 in the low probability gaming state and the high probability gaming state, respectively. It shall be.

  FIG. 9 is a diagram showing types of jackpots. As types of jackpots, there are special A to special C. Special A and special C belong to the per-variable length, and special B belongs to the normal per length. The number of special A and special B rounds and the number of special C rounds are 13 and 16, respectively. Note that “R” in the jackpot indicates a round. In each round, the first big prize opening 110 or the second big prize opening 111 is opened until the opening time of the first big prize opening 110 or the second big prize opening 111 reaches a predetermined time. However, in each round, even if the opening time of the first big prize opening 110 or the second big prize opening 111 does not reach the predetermined time, the game balls to the first big prize opening 110 or the second big prize opening 111 are When the number of winnings reaches a predetermined number, the first big winning opening 110 or the second big winning opening 111 is closed. In the following explanation regarding the opening time of the first grand prize opening 110 or the second big prize opening 111, the number of game balls won in the first big prize opening 110 or the second big prize opening 111 reaches a predetermined number in each round. The situation is not assumed.

  The opening time of the first big winning opening 110 or the second big winning opening 111 in each round per probability variation length and normal length is a predetermined opening time (for example, 30 seconds). The opening times of the big winning openings 110 or 111 in each round are the same between the probability variation length and the normal length, but may be slightly different per probability variation length and the normal length.

  In the first special symbol lottery, when the jackpot is won, the ratios of the jackpots as special A and special B are 51% and 49%, respectively. In the second special symbol lottery, when the jackpot is won, the ratio that the jackpot becomes special C is 100%. That is, in the first special symbol lottery, the special C jackpot is not won, and in the second special symbol lottery, the special A and special B jackpots are not won.

  FIG. 10 shows changes in the gaming state and the production mode triggered by the occurrence of the jackpot. Details regarding the production mode will be apparent from the following description.

  When the special A jackpot is won, the main CPU 411 sets the gaming state of the gaming machine 100 to the high probability electric support game state, and after the jackpot game ends, the setting contents (high (Probability electric support game state) is maintained. The number of times when the electric support is given refers to the number of times the special symbol is maintained to maintain the electric support game state. That is, for a certain jackpot, after the jackpot game is over, while the special symbol fluctuates i times, the gaming state is set to the electric support game state, and after the special symbol fluctuates i times, the non-electric support game state. When this is done, the number of times of providing electric support corresponding to the jackpot is i (i is an integer). The number of times electric support is provided for special A is 175 times (see FIG. 9).

  When the special B jackpot is won, the main CPU 411 sets the gaming state of the gaming machine 100 to the low probability electric support game state, and after the jackpot game ends, the setting contents (low (Probability electric support game state) is maintained. The number of times electric support is provided for special B is 100 (see FIG. 9).

  When the special C jackpot is won, the main CPU 411 sets the gaming state of the gaming machine 100 to the high probability electric support game state, and after the jackpot game ends, the setting contents (high (Probability electric support game state) is maintained. The number of times of providing electric support for the special C is 175 times (see FIG. 9).

  If it is determined that the big win is won in the special symbol determination, the main CPU 411 compares the special symbol determination table TZt stored in the main ROM 412 with the special symbol random number of the determination target TT, and based on the comparison result. A special symbol design is determined to determine the type of jackpot.

  The special symbol symbol determination table TZt is composed of a first special symbol symbol determination table and a second special symbol symbol determination table. When the determination target TT is special figure determination information acquired when the first start condition is satisfied, the determination target TT is triggered when the second start condition is satisfied using the first special symbol determination table. In the case of the acquired special symbol determination information, the special symbol determination is performed using the second special symbol determination table. The first and second special symbol determination tables are formed so that the types of jackpots for the first and second special symbols are determined by the above-described ratio (see FIG. 9).

  As can be seen from FIG. 9, the special symbol determination based on the establishment of the second start condition is relatively more advantageous to the player than the special symbol determination based on the establishment of the first start condition (ie, more Easy to get many prize balls). The relative advantage here is that the expected value of the number of winning balls obtained by winning the first big winning opening 110 or the second big winning opening 111 in the jackpot game executed based on the establishment of the second starting condition is: This means that in the jackpot game executed based on the establishment of the first start condition, the number of winning balls obtained by winning the first big winning opening 110 or the second big winning opening 111 is larger than the expected value. “The expected value of the number of winning balls obtained by winning the first big prize opening 110 or the second big prize opening 111 in the jackpot game” is the expected number of rounds in the jackpot game, or the first big prize in the jackpot game. It may be read as the expected value of the maximum value of the total opening time of the mouth 110 or the second grand prize opening 111.

  Specifically, in the first special symbol lottery, the 13R jackpot is won, whereas in the second special symbol lottery, the 16R jackpot is won by the special symbol determination based on the establishment of the first start condition. Compared to the above, the special symbol determination based on the establishment of the second start condition is one of the reasons that is more advantageous for the player.

  In the special symbol processing, the main CPU 411 performs special figure fluctuation pattern determination for determining a special figure fluctuation pattern for the determination target TT based on the special figure fluctuation pattern table THt and the special figure fluctuation pattern random number of the determination target TT. The determination of the special figure fluctuation pattern is synonymous with the selection or setting of the special figure fluctuation pattern. The special figure fluctuation pattern table THt includes a plurality of special figure fluctuation patterns, and one special figure fluctuation pattern for the determination target TT is selected in the special figure fluctuation pattern determination. Each special symbol variation pattern defines a variation pattern of a special symbol, and defines, for example, a variation time of the special symbol (the length of time during which the variation display of the special symbol is performed).

  In the special figure determination result storage area 413e (see FIG. 6), each determination result of special figure per-determination, special symbol determination, and special figure variation pattern determination for the determination target TT is stored in a state of being associated with each other. The

[Pre-judgment process in start-up switch process]
In addition, the main CPU 411 executes a pre-determination process during the start port switch process (see FIG. 7). In the pre-determination process, the main CPU 411 sets, as a pre-determination target, the special-determination determination information stored in the special figure determination information storage area 413d and put on hold. The special symbol design determination and the special symbol variation pattern determination are sequentially executed. The method of special figure determination, special symbol design, and special figure variation pattern determination for the prior determination target is the same as those for the determination target TT. The determination result of the pre-determination process (that is, the determination result of the special figure for the pre-determination target, the determination result of the special symbol design and the special figure variation pattern determination) is stored in the pre-determination information storage area 413h, The pre-determination command that is included is set in the main RAM 413 and transmitted to the effect control unit 403 in the output process described later. The pre-determination process for certain special figure determination information is executed in the start-up switch process before the special figure determination information is acquired and stored in the storage area 413d.

[1-2-4. Customer waiting setting process]
The customer waiting setting process (see FIG. 7) will be described. In the customer waiting setting process, the main CPU 411 sets the customer waiting flag to ON or OFF based on whether or not the current state is the customer waiting state. Whether the customer is waiting or not is whether or not the first special symbol lottery right is reserved, whether or not the second special symbol lottery right is reserved, and whether or not the special symbol is changed. The main CPU 411 determines that there is no waiting for the customer when there is neither the suspension of the right of the first special symbol lottery, the suspension of the right of the second special symbol lottery, or the variation of the special symbol, If either is present, it is determined that the customer is not waiting. In other words, if the game is a big hit game, it is determined that there is no suspension of the right of the first special symbol lottery, the suspension of the right of the second special symbol lottery, and the special symbol variation display, and it is determined that the customer is not in a waiting state. To do.

  If the customer waiting flag is ON when it is determined that the customer waiting state is ON, the customer waiting flag is kept ON, and if the customer waiting flag is OFF, it is set ON and a customer waiting start command is set in the main RAM 413. To do. If it is determined that the customer waiting state is not in the customer waiting state, if the customer waiting flag is OFF, the customer waiting flag is kept OFF, and if the customer waiting flag is ON, it is set to OFF and a customer waiting end command is set in the main RAM 413. To do.

[1-2-5. Normal symbol processing]
The normal symbol processing (see FIG. 7) will be described. In the normal symbol processing, the main CPU 411 obtains the common symbol determination information set with the highest priority in the general symbol determination information storage area 413i as the normal symbol determination target FF, and determines the normal symbol per-determination determination table FAt, Based on the base symbol determination table FZt, the base symbol variation pattern table FHt, the base symbol determination target FF, etc., the base symbol determination including the base symbol determination, the base symbol determination, and the base symbol variation pattern determination is executed, and the base symbol determination is performed. Is stored in the common figure determination result storage area 413j, and the normal symbol variation display and stop display are performed based on the determination result of the common figure determination. The information for normal map determination which has become the normal map determination target FF is deleted from the storage area 413i (therefore, the number of pending information U3 is decreased by 1) and transferred to another storage area (not shown). In the normal symbol process, when the general pattern determination information is not stored in the storage area 413i, the normal symbol process is terminated without performing the normal symbol determination.

  In the determination per common figure, it is determined whether or not the winning per common figure is won. When the winning is per common figure, the type per common figure is determined by the general symbol determination using the general symbol determination table FZt. There are two types of per map: per long open and short open. The time for the electric tulip 107 to be in the open state is longer per long opening than per short opening. In the normal map variation pattern determination, the main CPU 411 selects a general map variation pattern for the normal map determination target FF from a plurality of normal map variation patterns included in the general map variation pattern table FHt based on whether or not the electric support is provided. To do. The regular pattern variation pattern defines the variation time of a normal symbol. The main CPU 411 controls the display of the normal symbols based on the stored contents of the general pattern determination result storage area 413j in which the determination result of the general pattern determination is stored. For example, after displaying the fluctuation of the normal symbol for the fluctuation time indicated by the normal fluctuation pattern selected by the normal fluctuation pattern determination, stop the normal symbol at the symbol that shows the judgment result of the universal symbol determination and the normal symbol determination. Let

[1-2-6. Electric accessory control processing]
The electric accessory control process will be described (see FIG. 7). In the electric accessory control process, the big prize opening process and the electric chew process are sequentially executed.

  In the big prize opening process, when the result of the special figure determination shows that the jackpot is won, the first big prize opening 110 or the second big prize opening 111 is made using the big prize opening pattern according to the type of the big prize. Open and close operation. The big prize opening pattern table DKt stores a big prize opening pattern defining the opening mode of the first big prize opening 110 and the second big prize opening 111 for each type of jackpot. The main CPU 411 realizes the big prize opening process with reference to the table DKt.

  In the big winning opening opening pattern corresponding to the probability variation length and the normal length, the opening time of the first big winning opening 110 or the second big winning opening 111 in each round is an opening time t1 (for example, 30 seconds), In each round, the first big prize opening 110 or the second big prize opening 111 is continuously opened for the opening time t1. However, as described above, in each round, even if the opening time of the first big prize opening 110 or the second big prize opening 111 does not reach the opening time t1, the first big prize opening 110 or the second big prize winning opening. When the number of winning game balls to 111 reaches a predetermined value (for example, 10), the first big prize opening 110 or the second big prize opening 111 is closed, and the round ends.

  FIG. 11 shows the big prize opening pattern in the special A jackpot game, the special B jackpot game, and the special C jackpot game. In the special A jackpot game, the first big prize opening 111 is opened from 1R to 11R, the first big prize opening 110 is opened by 12R, and the second big prize opening 111 is opened by 13R. In the special B jackpot game, the second big prize opening 111 is opened from 1R to 13R, and the first big prize opening 110 is not opened. In the special C jackpot game, the same opening / closing process is performed from 1R to 13R as in the special A jackpot game, and the second big winning opening 111 is opened in 14R to 16R. Although not shown in FIG. 11, a predetermined inter-round interval period (for example, 1 second) is provided between the rounds, and the first grand prize opening 110 and the second big prize opening are provided in the inter-round interval period. 111 is a closed state.

  In addition, in the big prize opening process, a sorting member process and a game state setting process (see FIG. 7) are executed. In the allocating member process, the main CPU 411 performs an opening / closing operation of the allocating member 144 using the allocating member opening pattern in a specific round when the result of the special figure determination indicates a big win. The distribution member release pattern table FBt stores a distribution member release pattern that defines the release mode of the distribution member 144. The main CPU 411 realizes the sorting member process with reference to the table FBt. The specific round is a round in which the first big prize opening 110 is opened in the special A and special jackpot games, and is 12R in this example.

  FIG. 12 shows a sorting member release pattern in a specific round. The main CPU 411 performs an opening / closing process of the sorting member 144 while the first big prize opening 110 or the second big prize opening 111 is opened in the specific round. More specifically, for example, the sorting member 144 is opened after a predetermined time has elapsed (for example, 2 seconds later) after the first grand prize winning opening 110 or the second big winning prize opening 111 is opened in a specific round. When the first big prize opening 110 or the second big prize opening 111 in the specific round is closed, the closed state is set. That is, in this example, the opening time t2 of the sorting member 144 is 28 seconds. However, even if the opening time of the sorting member 144 has not reached the opening time t2, the sorting member 144 is closed when the entry of the game ball into the specific area 141 is detected by the specific area SW418a.

  The distribution member 144 is provided inside the first big prize opening 110. If the first big prize opening 110 is opened when the distribution member 144 is in the open state, a game ball is placed in the specific area 141. Can be entered, but the game ball cannot be entered into the specific area 141 unless the first big prize opening 110 is opened. That is, in the special A and C jackpot games, a game ball can be entered in the specific area 141, while in the special B jackpot game, a game ball cannot be entered in the specific area 141. Note that the opening mode of the sorting member 144 in the special hit game of special A and special C is always set to an open mode in which a game ball can enter the specific area 141 as long as the right-handed game is performed as usual.

  In the game state setting process, the main CPU 411 sets various game flags such as a high probability game flag and an electric support game flag that determine the game state in the game flag storage area 413f. As described above, the gaming state of the gaming machine 100 is a high probability gaming state when the high probability gaming flag is ON, and a low probability gaming state when the high probability gaming flag is OFF. The gaming state of the gaming machine 100 is an electric support game state when the electric support game flag is ON, and a non-electric support game state when the electric support game flag is OFF. In the game state setting process during the big prize opening process that is executed in response to the occurrence of the jackpot, a high probability depends on whether or not the specific area SW 418a detects that a game ball has entered the specific area 141 during the sorting member process. The game flag is set to ON / OFF, and the high probability remaining game count X indicating the remaining number of changes in the special symbol that maintains the high probability game state is set in the main RAM 413. That is, the specific area 141 is a probability variation function activation switch for setting the gaming state of the gaming machine 100 to a high probability gaming state (in order to turn on the high probability gaming flag), and when the probability variation function switch is turned on ( When a game ball enters the specific area 141), the high probability game flag is turned ON, and the gaming state of the gaming machine 100 becomes the high probability gaming state.

  In addition, the electric support game flag is set to ON based on the occurrence of the jackpot, and the electric support game remaining indicating the remaining number of fluctuations of the special symbol in which the electric support game state is maintained according to the type of the jackpot generated. The number of times J is set in the main RAM 413.

  Specifically, in the game state setting process associated with the big hits of special A and special C (see FIG. 7), if a game ball has entered the specific area 141, both the high probability game flag and the electric support game flag are both If both are set to ON and “175” is set in both the high probability remaining game count X and the electric support game remaining count J, and no game ball has entered the specific area 141, the high probability game flag is turned OFF. Thus, the electric support game flag is turned ON, and “0” and “175” are set in the high probability remaining game count X and the remaining electric support game remaining count J, respectively. In the game state setting process associated with the special B jackpot, the high probability game flag is turned OFF while the electric support game flag is turned ON, and the high probability game remaining number X and the electric support game remaining number J are “0” respectively. And “100” are set.

  The high probability remaining game count X set in the game state setting process is subtracted by “1” every time the special figure determination is executed when “X ≧ 1”, and becomes “X = 0”. The high probability game flag is set to OFF, and the gaming state of the gaming machine 100 becomes a low probability gaming state. The electric support game remaining number J set in the game state setting process is decremented by “1” every time the special figure determination is executed when “J ≧ 1”, and becomes “J = 0”. The electric support game flag is set to OFF, and the gaming state of the gaming machine 100 becomes a non-electric support game state. In the initial state of the gaming machine 100, the high probability game flag and the electric support game flag are OFF, and “0” is set to the number of times X and J. As described above, by initializing the game information of the gaming machine 100 using the RAM clear switch provided on the back surface of the game board 101, the initial state is obtained.

  In the electric Chu process, the main CPU 411 opens and closes the electric tulip 107 based on the result of the normal symbol process. When a normal symbol lottery is won (per common symbol), the electric tulip 107 is opened for a predetermined time.

[1-2-7. Prize ball processing]
In the winning ball process, the main CPU 411 pays out a predetermined number of winning balls for winning at the first starting port 105, the second starting port 106, the second major winning port 111, and the normal winning port 112. The payout instruction for making the payout is set in the prize ball information storage area 413g as a prize ball command.

[1-2-8. Output processing]
In the output process, the main CPU 411 sends information (including arbitrary commands) indicating the storage contents of each storage area in the main RAM 413 to each control unit (the prize ball control unit 402 and the effect) connected to the main control unit 401. Output to the control unit 403). A command related to the prize ball is output to the prize ball control unit 402, and a command related to the effect is output to the effect control unit 403. In the output process, the main CPU 411 can transmit any information that it recognizes or holds (for example, information indicating the state of the electric support game flag and the high probability game flag) to the effect control unit 403. When the output process ends, the timer interrupt process also ends. When the timer interrupt process ends, the process executed by the main CPU 411 returns to the main process (see FIG. 7).

  As shown in FIG. 6, a board external information terminal board 491 is connected to the main control section 401, and the main control section 401 sends information indicating the contents stored in the main RAM 413 to the outside (through the board 491 ( For example, it can be output to a hall computer of a game facility.

[2. Prize ball control unit]
The winning ball control unit 402 includes a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, an input / output interface (I / O) (not shown), and the like. The prize ball control unit 402 pays out a prize ball based on a payout instruction (prize ball command) from the main control unit 401.

  Various SWs for detecting a game ball are connected to the prize ball control unit 402. For example, as shown in the figure, the prize ball control unit 402 includes a fixed position detection SW 424 for detecting a game ball at a predetermined position, a payout ball detection SW 425 a for detecting a paid game ball, and a game ball in the upper plate 123. Ball detection SW 425b for detecting whether there is a ball, full tank detection SW 427a for detecting that the upper plate 123 is filled with game balls, and full tank detection for detecting that the lower plate 125 is filled with game balls SW427b is connected. Each of SW424, 425a, 425b, 427a, and 427b outputs a detection signal indicating whether or not a game ball has been detected to the prize ball control unit 402 (specifically, it is turned on when a game ball is detected). When a detection signal is output and no game ball is detected, the detection signal is turned OFF and no detection signal is output). The winning ball control unit 402 pays out a winning ball or stops paying out a winning ball based on a payout instruction output from the main control unit 401 or detection signals input from the SWs 424, 425a, 425b, 427a, and 427b. To do. Further, the prize ball control unit 402 opens the door frame 12 (the door frame 12 is rotated forward with respect to the inner frame 11 with the left side as a rotation base end side and the right side as a rotation front end side). A door opening SW 426 that detects that the door has been opened is connected. The door opening SW 426 outputs a detection signal indicating whether or not the opening of the door frame 12 is detected to the winning ball control unit 402 (specifically, when the door frame 12 is opened, it is turned ON and outputs a detection signal). If the door frame is not opened, it is turned off and no detection signal is output).

  The prize ball control unit 402 outputs detection signals input from the SWs 424, 425a, 425b, 426, 427a, and 427b to the main control unit 401. Further, a launching unit 428 is connected to the prize ball control unit 402. The award ball control unit 402 detects the operation of launching a game ball with respect to the launch unit 428 (operation by the player) and controls the launch of the game ball. The launcher 428 launches a game ball for a game, and includes a sensor that detects a game operation by the player, a solenoid that launches the game ball, and the like. When the prize ball control unit 402 detects a game operation by the sensor of the launch unit 428, the game ball 103 is intermittently fired by driving a solenoid or the like in response to the detected game operation, and the game area 103 of the game board 101 is played. Launch a game ball.

  The prize ball control unit 402 is connected to a payout unit 429 for paying out a prize ball. The payout unit 429 includes a payout drive motor for paying out a predetermined number of game balls from a storage unit (not shown) that stores game balls. The prize ball control unit 402 controls the payout unit 429 to drive the payout drive motor, whereby each winning opening (the first starting port 105, the second starting port 106, the first big winning port 110, the second big winning prize). The payout of prize balls corresponding to winning in the mouth 111 and the normal winning opening 112) is realized. The prize ball controller 402 is connected to a frame external information terminal board 492, and various information handled by the prize ball controller 402 can be output to the outside through the board 492.

[3. Production control unit]
The effect control unit 403 includes a CPU 431, a ROM 432, a RAM 433, an input / output interface (I / O) (not shown), and the like (see FIG. 6). The CPU, ROM, and RAM in the effect control unit 403 are also referred to as a sub CPU, a sub ROM, and a sub RAM, respectively. The sub CPU 431 reads various programs related to the control of effects performed by the gaming machine 100 from the sub ROM 432, and executes the read programs using the sub RAM 433 as a work area.

  The effect control unit 403 includes an image / sound control unit (not shown) that performs display control of the image display unit 104 and sound output control of the speaker 115, lighting control of the effect light unit 116 and the board lamp 135 on the game board 101, and A lamp control unit (not shown) that performs drive control of the movable accessories 117, 118a, and 130 is provided. In addition, the effect control unit 403 is connected with an effect button 121 and a cross key 122 for receiving an operation from the player. The effect control unit 403 can perform an effect corresponding to the input operation content from the player with respect to the effect button 121 and the cross key 122.

  The effect control unit 403 realizes an arbitrary effect including a change effect using an effect realization element (which may be rephrased as an effect means and may be considered to be synonymous with the effect member described above). That is, the production control unit 403 controls the production realization element to cause the production realization element to perform a desired production (the main body of the production in this expression is the production realization element, but in the description of this embodiment, The effect control unit 403 is regarded as the main subject of the effect). The effect realization element includes at least one of the image display unit 104, the speaker 115, the effect light unit 116, the movable frame accessory 117, 118a, the panel lamp 135, and the movable panel accessory 130. The variation effect refers to an effect executed by the effect control unit 403 between the special symbol variation display and the stop display, and includes an effect suggesting a determination result of the special figure determination. It should be noted that the suggestion, notification, notification, or notification by effect may be considered to be for the player unless otherwise specified.

[3-1. Production main processing]
FIG. 13 lists the main processes performed by the effect control unit 403. In the effect main process, the sub CPU 431 executes a volume setting process.

[3-1-1. Volume setting process]
The volume setting process will be described (see FIG. 13). In the volume setting process, the sub CPU 431 sets the volume of the sound output from the speaker 115 based on the first volume information and the second volume information.

  The first volume information is a volume setting device (hereinafter referred to as a “volume setting device that cannot be operated by the player”) provided on the above-described effect control board 304 and that cannot be operated by the player. Is information set by being operated by the administrator of the gaming machine 100. As shown in FIG. 14, the first volume control means is provided with a total of 10 scales from the 0th scale to the 9th scale, and any one of the first volume control means can be turned by rotating a knob provided on the upper part of the first volume control means. It is possible to select (set) the scale. When the 0th scale to the 2nd scale are selected (set), the volume change disable mode flag that does not accept the volume change by the volume control means that can be operated by the player is set to ON, and the 0th scale to First volume information corresponding to each of the second scales is stored in the RAM 413. When the third to fifth scales are selected (set), the volume change enable mode flag for accepting the volume change by the volume control means operable by the player is set to ON, and the third to fifth scales are set. First volume information corresponding to each of the five scales is stored in the RAM 413. When the 6th scale and the 7th scale are selected (set), the volume changeable mode flag for accepting the volume change by the volume control means operable by the player is set to ON, and the power saving mode flag is set to ON. The first sound volume information corresponding to each of the sixth scale and the seventh scale is stored in the RAM 413 while being set. When the eighth scale is selected (set), the volume change disable mode flag that does not accept the volume change by the volume control means that can be operated by the player is set to ON, the inspection mode flag is set to ON, and The first volume information corresponding to the eighth scale is stored in the RAM 413. When the ninth scale is selected (set), a volume change disable mode flag that does not accept a volume change by the volume control means that can be operated by the player is set to ON, and the first scale corresponding to the ninth scale is set. Volume information is stored in the RAM 413. The first volume information corresponding to each of the 0th scale to the 9th scale is, for example, in order of small volume, medium volume, large volume, small volume, medium volume, large volume, small volume, large volume, no volume, and nothing. It is volume. The power saving mode flag is a flag for executing the power saving mode. In the power saving mode, the backlight of the image display unit 104 during waiting for a customer (a state where the customer waiting flag is set to ON) is set. This is a mode in which the luminance is set to 50% compared to the normal time (state where the power saving mode flag is OFF), and the illuminance of the light emitting elements such as the effect light unit 116 and the panel lamp 135 is set to 85%. The inspection mode flag is one of the conditions for turning on the operation confirmation mode flag, and details of the operation confirmation mode will be described later.

  As for the second volume information, the volume control means operable by the player (hereinafter, “the volume control means operable by the player” may be referred to as “second volume control means”) may be used by the player or the gaming machine. This information is set by being operated by 100 administrators. In the initial state, predetermined volume information is stored in the RAM 413 as second volume information, and when a volume change is accepted in a volume change process (see FIG. 13) described later, the volume information related to the change is the second volume information. Is stored in the RAM 413.

  In the volume setting process, the sub CPU 431 sets a volume specified based on the first volume information and the second volume information, that is, a combination of both audio information, as the volume of the audio output from the speaker 115. However, when the first volume control means is set to any one of the 0th scale to the 2nd scale, the 8th scale, and the 9th scale, an unchangeable mode flag that does not accept the change of the volume by the second volume control means. In effect, the volume of the sound output from the speaker 115 is set based on the first volume information.

[3-2. Production timer interrupt processing]
The sub CPU 431 interrupts and executes the effect timer interrupt process with respect to the effect main process at a cycle according to the setting content stored in the sub RAM 433 by the effect main process (see FIG. 13). In the effect timer interruption process, the sub CPU 431 sequentially executes a command reception process, an operation reception process, a volume change process, and an operation confirmation process.

[3-2-1. Command reception processing]
In the command receiving process, the sub CPU 431 sequentially executes a special drawing effect process, a general drawing effect process, a hit effect process, an initial operation process, and a customer waiting process.

[3-2-1-1. Special drawing production process]
The special figure effect process includes an effect start process and an effect end process. The sub CPU 431 starts the variation effect by executing the effect start process in response to the reception of the variation start command from the main control unit 401, and then performs the effect in response to the reception of the variation stop command from the main control unit 401. The variation effect is ended by executing the end process. The effect start process includes a variable effect pattern selection process. In the variation effect pattern selection process, the sub CPU 431 selects and determines a special figure variation effect pattern from the special figure variation effect pattern table stored in the sub ROM 432 based on the command received from the main control unit 401. The variation effect by the selected and determined special figure variation effect pattern is executed in the special figure effect process.

  Further, when the sub CPU 431 receives a prior determination command from the main control unit 401, the sub CPU 431 performs a pending increase process in the command reception process. In the hold increase process, a hold image corresponding to the prior determination target is additionally displayed on the image display unit 104. The reserved image corresponding to the advance determination target is later deleted from the image display unit 104 or shifted to a specific display position when the change start command is received when the advance determination target becomes the determination target TT. . The sub CPU 431 can also perform a pre-reading notice effect on the prior determination target based on the prior determination command.

[3-2-1-2. General drawing processing]
The ordinary drawing effect process (see FIG. 13) is executed by the sub CPU 431 when a command related to a normal symbol is received from the main control unit 401. A command related to the normal symbol is transmitted from the main control unit 401 to the effect control unit 403 at the start and end of the variation of the normal symbol. In the ordinary drawing effect process, the ordinary drawing effect is executed when the normal symbol changes.

[3-2-1-3. Winning effect processing]
The winning effect process (see FIG. 13) is executed by the sub CPU 431 when a command related to the winning effect is received from the main control unit 401. At the start and end of a winning game, an opening command and an ending command are transmitted from the main control unit 401 to the effect control unit 403 as commands related to the winning effect, respectively. In the winning effect process, the effect control unit 403 starts the winning effect in response to the reception of the opening command, and ends the winning effect in response to the reception of the ending command.

[3-2-1-4. Initial operation processing]
The initial operation process (see FIG. 13) is executed by the sub CPU 431 when an initial operation command is received from the main control unit 401 together with a power-on command or a RAM clear command. In the initial operation process, the effect control unit 403 sequentially operates the effect members in response to the initial operation command. The sub ROM 432 stores an initial operation pattern table (not shown) in which a plurality of initial operation patterns defining initial operation modes are stored, and the sub CPU 431 implements initial operation processing with reference to the initial operation pattern table. .

  FIG. 15 shows the first initial operation pattern and the second initial operation pattern stored in the initial operation pattern table. In the first initial operation pattern, display processing for displaying a color bar on the image display unit 104, audio output processing for outputting predetermined sound simultaneously from the speakers 115a, 115b, and 115c, the effect light unit 116, and the panel lamp 135 are turned on simultaneously. The lighting process, the first frame movable combination 117, the second frame movable combination 118a, the panel movable combination 130 and the effect button 121 are sequentially moved from the reference position to the operating position, and then returned to the reference position. Run. On the other hand, in the second initial operation pattern, display processing for displaying a color bar on the image display unit 104, audio output processing for outputting predetermined sound at different timings from the speakers 115a, 115b, and 115c, an effect light unit 116, and The lighting process for lighting the panel lamp 135 at different timings, the first frame movable combination 117, the second frame movable combination 118a, the panel movable combination 130 and the production button 121 are sequentially moved from the reference position to the operating position, and thereafter The accessory operation process for returning to the reference position is executed.

  In the present embodiment, two initial operation patterns are stored in the initial operation pattern table, but three or more initial operation patterns may be stored. The above two initial operation patterns are examples. In the present embodiment, the display process and the accessory operation process are the same and the sound output process and the lighting process are different between the first initial operation pattern and the second initial operation pattern. However, the present invention is not limited to this. . In addition, the first initial operation pattern and the second initial operation pattern may be different in the number of times that a series of processes are executed while the contents of each process are the same. For example, the former executes a series of processes once. In the latter case, a series of processes may be executed three times.

  When executing the initial operation process, the sub CPU 431 executes the initial operation process based on the selected initial operation pattern, and stores information indicating the selected initial operation pattern in the sub RAM 433. In response to the power-on command or the RAM clear command received simultaneously with the initial operation command, the sub CPU 431 executes the initial operation process based on which initial operation pattern stored in the initial operation pattern table in the initial operation process. Determined. When receiving the power-on command, the sub CPU 431 executes an initial operation process based on the initial operation pattern based on the information indicating the previously selected initial operation pattern stored in the sub RAM 433. If the information indicating the previously selected initial operation pattern is not stored in the sub RAM 433, the sub CPU 431 executes the initial operation process based on the first initial operation pattern.

  When the RAM clear command is received, the sub CPU 431 displays either an image associated with the first initial operation pattern or an image associated with the second initial operation pattern on the image display unit 104 in a selectable manner. To do. Then, the sub CPU 431 receives selection of one of the initial motion patterns by operating the cross key 122 by the operator, and receives the determination of the initial motion pattern by operating (pressing) the effect button 121 ( (See FIG. 16). Then, the sub CPU 431 executes an initial accessory operation process based on the initial operation pattern determined by the operator. “For factory” shown in FIG. 16 is an image associated with the first initial operation pattern, and “for hall” is an image associated with the second initial operation pattern.

[3-2-1-5. Waiting for customers]
The customer waiting process (see FIG. 13) is a process executed by the sub CPU 431 when a customer waiting start command or a customer waiting end command is received from the main control unit 401. The sub CPU 431 sets the customer waiting state flag to ON when receiving the customer waiting start command, and sets the customer waiting state flag to OFF when receiving the customer waiting end command. In the customer waiting process, the sub CPU 431 starts displaying a predetermined image (a so-called customer waiting demo image) on the image display unit 104 after a predetermined time has elapsed since the customer waiting state flag was set to ON. The display of the customer waiting demo image is ended when the customer waiting state flag is set to OFF or when an operation of the player on the effect button 121 or the cross key 122 is recognized in the operation reception process described later. Note that the customer waiting flag set in the customer waiting setting process (see FIG. 7) and the customer waiting state flag set in the customer waiting process are different from each other (the former is the main CPU 411). In contrast, the latter is the sub CPU 431), which means that it is a flag indicating whether the current state is a customer waiting state or not. When the main CPU 411 sets the customer waiting flag from OFF to ON, the sub CPU 431 immediately sets the customer waiting state flag from OFF to ON in response to the customer waiting start command. When the main CPU 411 sets the customer waiting flag from ON to OFF, the sub CPU 431 immediately sets the customer waiting state flag from ON to OFF in response to the customer waiting end command.

[3-2-2. Operation acceptance process]
In the operation accepting process (see FIG. 13), the sub CPU 431 operates based on a signal from the effect button 121 or the cross key 122 to determine whether the player has made an operation on the effect button 121 or the cross key 122 (whether or not an operation has been input and details of the operation) ) For example, the effect control unit 403 can perform an effect according to the operation state recognized during the changing effect.

[3-2-3. Volume change processing]
The volume change process (see FIG. 13) is a process executed by the sub CPU 431 when the left button or the right button of the cross key 122 is operated while the customer waiting state flag is set to ON. That is, when the customer waiting state flag is set to ON, the left button and the right button of the cross key 122 function as the second sound volume adjusting means. For example, the sub CPU 431 accepts a change that reduces the volume when the left button is pressed, and a change that increases the volume when the right button is pressed. The changed volume is stored in the RAM 413 as second volume information.

[3-2-4. Operation check process]
The operation confirmation process (see FIG. 13) is executed by the sub CPU 431 when a predetermined operation confirmation instruction is accepted when the customer waiting state flag is set to ON and the inspection mode flag is set to ON. Process. For example, the operation confirmation instruction is accepted by the upper and lower buttons of the cross key 122. The sub ROM 432 stores an operation check table in which the operation mode of the upper and lower buttons of the cross key 122 and the operation check target are associated with each other. The sub CPU 431 performs the operation check process with reference to the operation check table. Realize.

  As illustrated in FIG. 17, the operation check table is configured by associating the operation mode of the upper button and the lower button of the cross key 122 with the operation check target. The sub CPU 431 specifies an operation check target based on the operation mode of the upper button and the lower button of the cross key 122, and executes an operation check process for the specified operation check target. For example, when the cross key 122 is operated in the order of “up button”, “up button”, “up button”, “up button”, and “down button”, the image display unit 104 is specified as an operation check target. . In this case, the sub CPU 431 displays a color bar on the image display unit 104 for a predetermined time. For example, when any of the speakers 115a, 115b, and 115c is specified as an operation check target, a predetermined sound is output from the specified speaker for a predetermined time. For example, when the effect light unit 116 or the panel lamp 135 is specified as the operation confirmation target, the specified effect light unit 116 or the panel lamp 135 is turned on for a predetermined time. For example, when any one of the first frame movable accessory 117, the second frame movable accessory 118a, the panel movable accessory 130, and the effect button 121 is specified as the operation confirmation target, the specified movable accessory is used as a reference. The accessory operation process is performed in which the position is moved from the position to the operating position and then returned to the reference position.

<< About production mode >>
FIG. 18A shows an effect mode table Mt stored in the sub ROM 432 of the effect control unit 403. The sub CPU 431 selects and sets one effect mode from the plurality of effect modes defined in the effect mode table Mt, based on the command received from the main control unit 401. The effect mode selected here may be hereinafter referred to as a target effect mode. The effect control unit 403 performs various effects including a variable effect in the target effect mode. The plurality of effect modes include a probability change mode, a chance mode, a normal mode A, a normal mode B, and a normal mode C as the first to fifth effect modes (hereinafter referred to as “normal mode A, normal mode B and When it is not necessary to distinguish the “normal mode C”, it is simply referred to as “normal mode”). The effect control unit 403 executes different effects between the probability variation mode, the chance mode, the normal mode A, the normal mode B, and the normal mode C. As shown in FIG. 18A, a mode flag is associated with each effect mode in the effect mode table Mt. The probabilistic mode, chance mode, normal mode A, normal mode B, and normal mode C are selected and used as the production mode when the mode flag is “1”, “2”, “3”, “4”, respectively. This corresponds to a state where “5” is set. The mode flag is stored in the sub RAM 433, and the value is variably set by the sub CPU 431. FIG. 18B shows the relationship between each production mode, the jackpot winning probability, and whether or not electric support is provided. As shown in FIG. 18B and FIG. 10, the effect control unit 403 sets the probability variation mode and the chance mode as the target effect mode in the high probability electric support game state and the low probability electric support game state, respectively, In the probability non-electric support game state (normal game state), the normal mode A, the normal mode B, or the normal mode C is set as the target effect mode. In FIG. 10, “normal mode” is simply described. However, as described in this paragraph, it means “normal mode A, normal mode B, or normal mode C”. .

  FIGS. 19A to 19B show display examples of the image display unit 104 in the probability variation mode and the chance mode, respectively. FIGS. 20A to 20C show normal mode A, normal mode B, and The example of a display of the image display part 104 in the normal mode C is shown. In each effect mode, the effect control unit 403 can display a background image on the image display unit 104 and can superimpose a decorative design or the like on the background image. The background images are different between the probability variation mode, the chance mode, the normal mode A, the normal mode B, and the normal mode C. The display mode of the decorative symbols and the like may be common between the normal modes (normal mode A, normal mode B, and normal mode C), but may be different between the probability change mode, the chance mode, and the normal mode. The hold display mode (hold image) indicating that the right of the winning lottery is held may be different among the probability variation mode, the chance mode, the normal mode A, the normal mode B, and the normal mode C.

  The probabilistic mode is a performance mode that is used in the high probability electric support game state and suggests to the player that the current game state is the high probability electric support game state (the winning probability of jackpot is controlled with high probability) Is a specific production mode) that suggests to the player. Therefore, the player who has seen the effect in the probability variation mode can relatively easily understand that the current gaming state is the high probability electric support gaming state. It should be noted that the effect in the probability variation mode includes an effect that prompts the player to make a right stroke (for example, display of characters such as “please make a right stroke”).

  The chance mode is an effect mode that is used in the low probability electric support game state and suggests to the player that the current game state is the low probability electric support game state. Therefore, the player who has seen the effect in the chance mode can relatively easily understand that the current gaming state is the low probability electric support gaming state. The production in the chance mode includes a production that prompts the player to make a right strike (for example, display of characters such as “please make a right strike”).

  The normal mode is an effect mode that is used in the low probability non-electric support game state and suggests to the player that the current game state is the low probability non-electric support game state. Therefore, the player who has seen the effect in the normal mode can relatively easily understand that the current gaming state is the low probability non-electric support gaming state. In the low-probability non-electric support game state, the effect control unit 403 may appropriately set which of the normal mode A, the normal mode B, and the normal mode C is used. For example, when the number of fluctuations of the special symbol in each normal mode reaches a certain number (for example, 30 times), it may be changed to another normal mode, and the change can be made in normal mode A, normal mode B, normal What is necessary is to carry out sequentially, looping in order of mode C. Note that the method for determining the change to another normal mode is not limited to the above method. As a method for determining the change to another normal mode, a determination is made using a random number for the effect generated by the effect control unit 403. As a result, when it is determined to change to another normal mode, it may be changed to another normal mode.

  Alternatively, the player may be able to select whether to use the normal mode A, the normal mode B, or the normal mode C in the low probability non-electric support game state. When the player can be selected, the normal mode A is used in the initial state of the gaming machine 100, and when the player presses the effect button 121 at an arbitrary timing, the normal mode A, the normal mode B, and the normal mode C can be selected. The normal mode to be used may be changed by looping in order.

  FIG. 21 shows a change in the target effect mode, paying attention to the big hits of special A to special C. The production mode (target production mode) in the initial state of the gaming machine 100 is the normal mode. As described above, in the initial state of the gaming machine 100, which one of the normal mode A, the normal mode B, and the normal mode C is used is an item that is appropriately set by the effect control unit 403 or the player. In the description related to this, the normal mode A, the normal mode B, and the normal mode C are not distinguished, and are described as the normal mode.

  The effect control unit 403 starts the state where the target effect mode is the normal mode, and when a special A or C jackpot occurs, changes the target effect mode to the probability change mode after the corresponding jackpot game, and the special B jackpot If this occurs, the target effect mode is changed to the chance mode after the special B jackpot game.

  The effect control unit 403 starts the state where the target effect mode is the chance mode, and when a special A or special C jackpot occurs, changes the target effect mode to the probability change mode after the corresponding jackpot game, and the special B jackpot In the case of occurrence, the target effect mode remains the chance mode even after the special B jackpot game. In addition, when the special effect mode is a probability variation mode, the production control unit 403 keeps the target production mode in the probability variation mode even after the corresponding jackpot game when a special A or C jackpot occurs. When a big hit of B occurs, the target effect mode is changed to the chance mode after the special B big hit game.

<< Supplementary >>

  In the present embodiment, display processing for displaying a color bar on the image display unit 104 is executed in the initial operation processing, and display processing for displaying a color bar on the image display unit 104 can be executed in the operation confirmation processing. The display process for displaying the color bar on the image display unit 104 may not be executed / cannot be executed. In that case, when the accessory action process is executed in the initial action process or the action confirmation process, as shown in FIG. 22A, the movable accessory (first frame movable accessory 117) related to the accessory action process is shown. And the second frame movable combination 118a, the panel movable combination 130, and the effect button 121) may be displayed on the image display unit 104. FIG. 22 shows an example of an image displayed on the image display unit 104 when the movable accessory related to the accessory operation processing is the second frame movable accessory 118a.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 22 (b), an image indicating that the movable accessory related to the accessory operation process is operated and an image indicating a normal form at the operating position of the movable accessory are displayed on the image display unit. 104 may be displayed. The image displayed on the image display unit 104 in the initial operation process and the operation confirmation process is not limited to the image related to the accessory action process, but instead of the image related to the accessory action process, or the accessory In addition to the image related to the operation process, an image related to the sound output process and the lighting process may be displayed. The image related to the sound output process is an image indicating that sound is output from a speaker (speaker 115a, 115b, or 115c) related to the sound output process and what kind of sound is output. It is an image showing what should be done. The image related to the lighting process is an image indicating that the effect member (any of the effect light unit 116 and the panel lamp 135) related to the lighting process is lit, and what color and mode (flashing, etc.) are displayed. It is an image showing what should be done. Further, as shown in FIG. 22 (c), together with an image showing that the movable accessory related to the accessory action processing is being operated, an image showing a normal form at the operating position of the movable accessory, and You may display on the image display part 104 the image which shows the form which is not normal in the operation position of a movable accessory. The same applies to images related to audio output processing and lighting processing.

  The operation check process is a process executed by the sub CPU 431 when a predetermined operation check instruction is received when the customer waiting state flag is set to ON and the inspection mode flag is set to ON. However, in this configuration, when the administrator of the gaming machine 100 starts the game with the first volume adjusting means set to the eighth scale, and the customer waiting state flag is set to ON. In addition, the player may cause the player to execute the operation confirmation process unintentionally by operating the upper button and the lower button of the cross key 122. Therefore, for example, when the customer waiting state flag is set to ON and the inspection mode flag is set to ON, a menu screen is displayed on the image display unit 104, and execution of operation check processing is selected from the menu screen. Then, when the operation confirmation mode flag is set to ON and the operation confirmation mode flag is set to ON, when the predetermined operation confirmation instruction is received, the operation confirmation process is executed by the sub CPU 431. It may be done. The operation confirmation mode flag may be set to OFF when any of the customer waiting state flag and the inspection mode flag is set to OFF.

  In addition, the operation confirmation process is a process of operating a single effect member associated with the operation mode of the upper button and the lower button of the cross key 122, but is not limited thereto. 122 may be a process of sequentially operating a plurality of effect members associated with the operation mode of the upper and lower buttons.

  When the sub CPU 431 receives the initial operation command and the RAM clear command from the main CPU 411, the image selection screen shown in FIG. 16 is displayed, and the initial operation process is performed with the initial operation pattern associated with the selected image. It was decided to execute. However, either one (for example, an image for “Hall”) may not be associated with the initial operation pattern, and when the image is selected and determined, the above-described operation confirmation mode flag is turned ON. It may be set. That is, according to the present modification, when the “for hall” image is selected and determined, a predetermined operation confirmation instruction is received, and the same process as the above-described operation confirmation process is executed. Furthermore, in this modification, the method of setting the operation confirmation mode flag to ON is not limited to the selection and determination of the “hole” image on the image selection screen shown in FIG. For example, when an initial operation command and a RAM clear command are received from the main CPU 411, the image selection screen as shown in FIG. 16 is not displayed, and the initial operation process is executed based on the first initial operation pattern. When the operation of the cross key 122 is accepted during execution of the initial operation process and the operation mode is a predetermined operation mode, the operation check mode flag may be set to ON. When the operation check mode flag is set to ON, the initial operation process being executed is interrupted, or after the initial operation process being executed is completed, a predetermined operation check instruction is received and the operation check described above is performed. A process similar to the process is executed.

  The inspection mode flag is set to ON when the first volume control means is set to the eighth scale. However, the check mode flag is not limited to this, and other means included in the effect control board 303 include When there are a plurality of scales, the inspection mode flag may be set to ON by setting to a specific scale, or the inspection mode ON / OFF for the effect control board to switch the inspection mode flag ON / OFF An OFF switching unit may be provided separately, and the inspection mode flag may be set to ON by setting the inspection mode ON / OFF switching unit to ON.

  In addition, the sub CPU 431 executes the initial operation process regardless of whether the power-on command or the RAM clear command is received from the main CPU 411 together with the initial operation command. The initial operation process may be executed only when a RAM clear command is received without receiving the initial operation process when received.

  Further, the predetermined operation mode related to the initial operation process and the operation check process is the operation mode of the cross key 122, but is not limited to this, and instead of or in addition to the cross key 122. The operation mode of the effect button 121 (a combination of the number of times of pressing, long pressing, and short pressing) may be included. In addition, the gaming machine 100 may be provided with a dedicated operation reception unit used in connection with the initial operation process and the operation confirmation process. In this case, the operation mode of the operation reception unit may be used.

  Further, in the initial operation process (see FIG. 13), when the effect control unit 403 receives the power-on command together with the initial operation command, the effect control unit 403 performs the initial operation based on the information indicating the previously selected initial operation pattern stored in the sub-RAM 433. When the RAM clear command is received together with the initial operation command, the initial accessory operation processing is executed based on the initial operation pattern determined by the operator. Accordingly, when the initial operation pattern selected last time stored in the sub-RAM 433 in the former and the initial operation pattern determined by the operator in the latter are common initial operation patterns, the same initial operation processing is executed. It will be. However, even if both have a common initial pattern, different initial operation processing may be executed when a power-on command is received and when a RAM clear command is received.

  FIG. 23 shows an example of an initial operation process executed based on the first initial operation pattern when the power-on command is received and an initial operation process executed based on the first initial operation pattern when the RAM clear command is received. . In this example, the operation handle 119 has a function of injecting air, and the operation of the operation handle 119 is referred to as the operation (operation) of the operation handle 119. The injection of air from the operation handle 119 can constitute a part of the variation effect. The effect light unit 116 is a rotating lamp (so-called patrol lamp) provided with a rotation mechanism, and rotating the rotation mechanism of the effect light unit 116 is referred to as an operation (operation) of the effect light unit 116.

  When the power-on command is received, the operation handle 119 is operated as an initial operation process. After the operation of the operation handle 119 ends, the effect light unit 116, the effect button 121, the first frame movable accessory 117, and the second frame movable accessory 118a. (So-called frame movable accessory) are sequentially moved from the reference position to the operating position, and then the frame accessory operation process for returning to the reference position is executed. When the frame accessory operation process is finished, the movable board 130 (so-called movable board) is moved from the reference position to the operating position (sequentially when there are a plurality of movable boards), and then returned to the reference position. Execute the accessory action process. On the other hand, when the power-on command is received, the operation handle 119 is operated as an initial operation process, and after the operation of the operation handle 119 is finished, the panel movable combination 130 (so-called panel movable combination) is present (when there are a plurality of panel movable combinations). (In order), a board accessory operation process is performed to move from the reference position to the operating position and then return to the reference position. When the board accessory operation process is completed, the effect light unit 116, the effect button 121, the first frame movable accessory 117, the second frame movable accessory 118a (so-called frame movable accessory) are sequentially moved from the reference position to the operating position. Then, the frame accessory operation process for returning to the reference position is executed. In FIG. 23, display processing for displaying a color bar on the image display unit 104 shown in FIG. 15, audio output processing for outputting predetermined sound from the speakers 115a, 115b, and 115c, the effect light unit 116, and the panel lamp 135 are turned on. Although the description regarding the lighting process to be performed is omitted, these may be appropriately executed. For example, when the power is turned off due to a power failure or the like during execution of the fluctuation effect and the power switch is turned on without pressing the RAM clear switch (that is, when a power-on command is received), part of the fluctuation effect is performed. The lighting process that constitutes a part of the initial operation process is prioritized over the lighting / flashing effect of the LED that constitutes the LED. For example, the LED that constitutes a part of the fluctuation effect is illuminated for 60 seconds after receiving the power-on command. Flashing effect is not executed. In addition, when the power is turned off due to a power failure or the like during execution of the fluctuation effect, and the power switch is turned on without pressing the RAM clear switch (that is, when the power-on command is received), the operation on the operation reception unit is changed to the fluctuation effect It may be reflected.

  In the initial operation process shown in FIG. 23, unless the operation of the operation handle 119 is completed, the frame movable accessory operation process and the panel movable accessory operation process are not started, and the operation time of the operation handle 119 is long. In this case, the timing at which each process is started is delayed. For example, when the power is turned on (see FIG. 23A), the movable board action operation process is performed after the movable frame action process, so even if it is desired to check the movable board action process, Unless it waits until the end, the movable board action process is not executed. Therefore, for example, when a predetermined operation is performed on the operation accepting unit, the effect control unit 403 can execute an arbitrary process without waiting for the end of the currently executing process. Good. For example, during the operation of the operation handle 119, by pressing the effect button 121, the cross button 122, the upper button, the left button, the lower button, and the right button once, without waiting for the operation handle 119 to end, the frame The movable accessory operation process is executed.

  In the above embodiment, the operation confirmation process is executed by the sub CPU 431 when a predetermined operation confirmation instruction is accepted when the customer waiting state flag is set to ON and the inspection mode flag is set to ON. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and may be a process executed by the sub CPU 431 when a predetermined operation confirmation instruction is received under a predetermined condition. The predetermined condition may be, for example, a period from when the power-on command is received until the initial operation process is executed.

  In the above embodiment, the volume setting device is provided with a plurality of scales, and a scale (hereinafter also referred to as an F scale) capable of setting the eco mode flag to ON is provided among these scales. May be.

  When the F scale is selected, the sub CPU 431 displays, on the image display unit 104, the image “Yes” associated with the execution of the eco mode and the image “No” associated with the non-execution of the eco mode. Display selectable. The sub CPU 431 accepts selection of execution or non-execution of the eco mode by operating the cross key 122 by the operator, and executes or does not execute the eco mode by operating (pressing) the effect button 121. Accept execution decision. FIG. 24 shows a state where the execution of the eco mode is selected and determined. When the execution of the eco mode is determined, the volume change enable mode flag for accepting the volume change by the volume control means operable by the player is set to ON, the eco mode flag is set to ON, and the F scale is set. Corresponding first volume information is stored in the RAM 413. The first volume information corresponding to the F scale is, for example, a small volume. The eco mode setting screen shown in FIG. 24 is continued as long as the F scale is selected in the volume setting device, and is deleted when the F scale is no longer selected in the volume setting device. However, even if the F scale is selected in the volume setting device, while the special symbol is changing, the eco-mode setting screen is deleted, the special symbol change is finished, and the customer waiting flag is set to ON. Sometimes the eco-mode setting screen is displayed. When the eco mode flag is set to ON, even if a scale other than the F scale is selected, processing based on the scale other than the F scale is not executed. To turn off the eco-mode flag, select the F scale again, display the eco-mode setting screen shown in FIG. 24, select an image associated with non-execution of the eco-mode, and decide Alternatively, the game information of the gaming machine 100 may be initialized.

  In the above embodiment, the main control unit 401 sets the initial operation command in the main RAM 413 together with the power-on command or the RAM clear command in the power-on process, but the predetermined condition is satisfied. If not, the initial operation command may not be set in the main RAM 413. The predetermined condition is that, for example, in the power-on process, the identification ID of the prize ball control board 302 is acquired, and the identification ID matches the identification ID stored in the main RAM 413 in advance. The case where the identification ID does not match the identification ID stored in the main RAM 413 in advance indicates that there is a high possibility that the prize ball control board 302 is not a regular prize ball control board 302 (an illegal board).

<< Consideration of Invention Regarding this Embodiment >>
The invention relating to this embodiment will be considered.

  A gaming machine W1 according to one aspect of the present embodiment includes a plurality of effect devices used for effects executed according to the development of the game, effect device control means for controlling operations of the plurality of effect devices, and power-on. In some cases, initial motion execution control means capable of controlling the rendering device control means to execute initial motion processing of the plurality of rendering devices, and storing a plurality of initial motion patterns as contents of the initial motion processing And an initial operation pattern storage means.

  According to the gaming machine W1 configured as described above, when power is turned on, a plurality of effect devices used for effects executed according to the development of the game, for example, an image display unit, a speaker, a movable accessory, and a light emitter are sequentially operated. Although the initial operation process is executed, a plurality of patterns are stored as the initial operation process pattern, the initial operation process is executed in a pattern desired by the administrator of the gaming machine W1, and the plurality of effect members operate normally. It can be easily determined whether or not.

  The gaming machine W1 having the above-described configuration further includes initial operation pattern setting means for setting one initial operation pattern from the plurality of initial operation patterns when the power is turned on, and the initial operation execution control means is configured to set the initial operation pattern. It is desirable that the initial motion processing of the plurality of rendering devices can be executed based on the initial motion pattern set by the means.

  According to the gaming machine W1 configured as described above, when the power is turned on, one initial operation pattern desired by the administrator of the gaming machine W1 can be set from a plurality of initial operation patterns. Operation processing is executed.

  In the gaming machine W1 configured as described above, the effect device control means, the initial action execution control means, the initial action pattern storage means, and the initial action pattern setting means are realized by, for example, the effect control unit 403 in the gaming machine 100.

  In the gaming machine 100 of the above-described embodiment, the effect control unit 403 is provided with effect device control means for controlling the operations of a plurality of effect devices used for effects executed in accordance with the development of the game. In addition, the effect control unit 403 is provided with initial operation execution control means capable of controlling the effect device control means to execute the initial operation processing of a plurality of effect devices. In addition, an initial motion pattern storage unit that stores a plurality of initial motion patterns (for example, a first initial motion pattern and a second initial motion pattern) is provided in the sub-RAM 433 of the effect control unit 403 as the content of the initial motion processing. Yes. In addition, the effect control unit 403 is provided with initial operation pattern setting means for setting one initial operation pattern from a plurality of initial operation patterns.

  A gaming machine W2 according to one aspect of the present embodiment includes a plurality of effect devices used for effects executed according to the development of the game, effect device control means for controlling operations of the plurality of effect devices, and power-on. Sometimes, the effect device control means is controlled to execute initial operation processing of the plurality of effect devices, and the effect device control means is controlled in response to a predetermined input signal. And special operation execution control means capable of executing special operation processing different from the initial operation processing.

  According to the gaming machine W2 configured as described above, when the power is turned on, a plurality of effect devices used for effects executed according to the development of the game, for example, an image display unit, a speaker, a movable accessory, and a light emitter are sequentially operated. Initial operation processing is executed, but indicates that a predetermined input signal (for example, the cross key 122 has been operated in a predetermined mode (a mode that the administrator of the gaming machine W2 knows and is not normally understood by the player)) It is possible to execute a special operation process (for example, an operation confirmation process) different from the initial operation process by the operation signal), and the administrator of the gaming machine W2 can perform a plurality of effect members by executing the special operation process. It can be easily determined whether or not it is operating normally.

  In the gaming machine W2 configured as described above, the effect device control means, the initial action execution control means, and the special action execution control means are realized by the effect control unit 403 in the gaming machine 100, for example.

  In the gaming machine 100 of the above-described embodiment, the effect control unit 403 is provided with effect device control means for controlling the operations of a plurality of effect devices used for effects executed in accordance with the development of the game. In addition, the effect control unit 403 is provided with initial operation execution control means capable of controlling the effect device control means to execute the initial operation processing of a plurality of effect devices. Also, the effect control unit 403 is provided with special action execution control means that can control the effect device control means in accordance with a predetermined input signal and execute a special action process different from the initial action process. .

  The gaming machine W3 according to one aspect of the present embodiment includes a plurality of effect devices used for effects executed in accordance with the development of the game, setting means that the player cannot perform setting operations during the game, and the setting Special mode execution means for executing a special mode capable of performing special control on the plurality of rendering devices according to a setting operation on the means.

  According to the gaming machine W3 having the above-described configuration, setting means that the player cannot perform setting operation during the game (for example, setting means that cannot be operated unless the door frame 12 is opened, the setting provided on the effect control board 303). A plurality of effect devices used for effects executed according to the development of the game, for example, an image display unit, a speaker, a movable accessory, and light emission. A special mode (for example, inspection mode) capable of performing special control (for example, operation confirmation processing) on the body is executed.

  In addition, in the gaming machine W3 having the above-described configuration, a part of the plurality of effect devices can be configured, and sound output means capable of outputting effect sound, and the volume of the effect sound output from the sound output means can be adjusted. Volume adjusting means, wherein the volume adjusting means is a first volume adjusting means that allows the player to adjust the volume during the game, and a second volume adjusting means that the player cannot adjust the volume during the game. It is desirable that the setting means is the second sound volume adjusting means.

  According to the gaming machine W3 having the above-described configuration, the player can adjust the volume during the game as a volume adjusting unit capable of adjusting the volume of the effect sound output from the sound output means (for example, a speaker) that can output the effect sound. First volume control means (for example, the left button or the right button of the cross key 122) and second volume control means (for example, a volume setting device provided on the effect control board 303) that the player cannot adjust the volume during the game. ), And the setting means is a second sound volume adjusting means. The volume adjuster is a structure that the production control board is basically equipped with, and it is possible to execute a special mode using (manipulating) the structure, so that it is not necessary to provide any other special operation means. An increase in cost can be prevented.

  In the gaming machine W3 configured as described above, it is desirable that the special mode is a mode in which an operation confirmation process can be executed for one or more effect devices among the plurality of effect devices.

  According to the gaming machine W3 having the above-described configuration, the special mode is a mode in which the operation confirmation process can be executed for one or more rendering devices among the plurality of rendering devices. It is possible to easily determine whether or not a plurality of performance members are operating normally.

  In the gaming machine W3 configured as described above, the special mode execution means is realized by the effect control unit 403 in the gaming machine 100, for example.

  In the gaming machine 100 of the above-described embodiment, the special mode execution unit that executes a special mode capable of performing special control on the plurality of presentation devices according to the setting operation on the setting unit is the presentation control unit 403. Is provided.

  The gaming machine W4 according to one aspect of the present embodiment includes a plurality of effect devices used for effects executed according to the development of the game, effect device control means for controlling operations of the effect devices, and the effect. An operation confirmation execution control means capable of executing an operation confirmation process for one or more effect devices among the plurality of effect devices by controlling the device control means, and an effect in which the operation confirmation process is executed And an operation information notification control means for notifying information about the apparatus by the notification means.

  According to the gaming machine W4 having the above-described configuration, one or more effect devices among a plurality of effect devices used for effects executed according to the development of the game, for example, an image display unit, a speaker, a movable accessory, and a light emitter. When the operation check process is executed, information on the effect device for which the operation check process is being executed (for example, information indicating which effect device is the effect device for which the operation check process is being executed, and Information indicating how the rendering device should be operated is notified by the notification means. Therefore, the administrator of the gaming machine W4 can easily determine whether or not the plurality of effect members are operating normally.

  Further, in the gaming machine W4 having the above-described configuration, it is desirable that when the power is turned on, the effect device control means is controlled to execute initial operation processing of the plurality of effect devices as the operation confirmation process.

  According to the gaming machine W4 configured as described above, when the power is turned on, initial operation processing of a plurality of effect devices is executed as operation confirmation processing. Therefore, also in the initial operation process, information related to the effect device for which the initial operation process is being performed is notified by the notification unit.

  In the gaming machine W4 configured as described above, the effect device control means, the action confirmation execution control means, and the action information notification control means are realized by the effect control unit 403 in the gaming machine 100, for example.

  In the gaming machine 100 of the above-described embodiment, the effect control unit 403 is provided with effect device control means for controlling the operations of a plurality of effect devices used for effects executed in accordance with the development of the game. In addition, the effect control unit 403 is provided with operation check execution control means that can control the effect device control means to execute the operation check process for one or more effect devices among a plurality of effect devices. . In addition, the effect control unit 403 is provided with operation information notification control means for notifying the information related to the effect device for which the operation confirmation processing is being performed by the notification means.

/// Deformation etc.///
The embodiment of the present invention can be appropriately modified in various ways within the scope of the technical idea shown in the claims. The above embodiment is merely an example of the embodiment of the present invention, and the meaning of the term of the present invention or each constituent element is not limited to that described in the above embodiment. The specific numerical values shown in the above description are merely examples, and as a matter of course, they can be changed to various numerical values.

  In the above-described embodiment, the example in which the present invention is applied to the old first-class type pachinko gaming machine has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to other types (for example, the old-kind two-kind mixed type) pachinko gaming machine. The present invention may be applied to other game machines such as slot machines that are not classified as pachinko gaming machines. In a pachinko gaming machine, a game ball is used as a game medium, while in a slot machine, a coin is used as a game medium.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 Game machine 105,106 Start port 110 1st grand prize opening 111 2nd big prize opening 401 Main control part (special game judgment means, prior judgment means, storage means)
402 Prize ball control unit 403 Production control unit (notification control means, storage means)
427a Full tank detection SW
427b Full tank detection SW

Claims (3)

A plurality of effect devices used for effects executed in accordance with the development of the game;
Setting means that the player cannot perform setting operations during the game,
Special mode execution means for executing a special mode capable of performing special control on the plurality of rendering devices according to a setting operation on the setting means;
A gaming machine comprising: A part of the plurality of effect devices, and an audio output means capable of outputting effect sound;
Volume adjustment means capable of adjusting the volume of the effect sound output from the audio output means;
With
The volume adjusting means is
A first volume adjusting means that allows the player to adjust the volume during the game;
A second volume adjustment means that the player cannot adjust the volume during the game,
The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the setting unit is the second volume adjustment unit.   The gaming machine according to claim 2, wherein the special mode is a mode in which an operation confirmation process can be executed for one or more effect devices among the plurality of effect devices.