JP2016202362A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine causing a player to accurately recognize a current game state and reducing obstruction to a performance.SOLUTION: The game machine is configured to display a prescribed game state on a liquid crystal display device at timing T1, T10, T20 and T30 as shown in Figure 4, and to terminate the display of the game state (refer to timing T2 shown in Figure 4(a), refer to timing T11 shown in Figure 4(b), refer to timing T21 shown in Figure 4(c), and refer to timing T31 shown in Figure 4(d)), when symbols vary a prescribed number of times (refer to Figure 4(a)), when a prescribed time elapses (refer to Figure 4(b)), when waiting for a customer (refer to Figure 4(c)), and when an operation (refer to Figure 4(d)) is done by a setup button.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko machine, an arrangement ball machine, a sparrow ball game machine, and a slot. More specifically, the present invention allows a player to accurately recognize the current gaming state, and reduces hindrance to performance. It aims to provide a gaming machine that can.

  As a conventional gaming machine such as a pachinko machine, for example, when the special mode is started, the number of times of game execution is measured, and when a specific number of times is reached, whether or not it is in a high probability state (latency probability variation state) There are those that end the special mode after being displayed on the liquid crystal screen (see Patent Document 1), and those that display on the liquid crystal screen whether or not the next game state maintains the latent probability changing state (see Patent Document 2). Are known.

JP 2014-61236 A JP-A-2015-13041

  However, after the jackpot or the end of the special mode, the gaming machine as described above, for example, only displays on the liquid crystal screen whether or not to maintain the latent probability changing state, so that the liquid crystal screen is overlooked or changed normally. There is a problem that when the next player starts playing in the state of returning to, it is not known what the current gaming state is. Furthermore, there is a problem in that the display of the game state display on the liquid crystal screen may hinder production.

  Therefore, in view of the above problems, an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that can allow a player to accurately recognize the current gaming state and reduce the hindrance to effects.

  The object of the present invention is achieved by the following means. In addition, although the code | symbol in a parenthesis attaches the referential mark of embodiment mentioned later, this invention is not limited to this.

According to the invention of claim 1, gaming state notifying means for notifying a predetermined gaming state (see the liquid crystal display device 41 shown in FIG. 2, see timing T1 shown in FIG. 4A, see FIG. 5);
Symbol variation display means (see the liquid crystal display device 41 shown in FIG. 2, see FIG. 5) for displaying the symbol variation when a predetermined condition is satisfied;
When the symbol variation display means (see the liquid crystal display device 41 shown in FIG. 2, see FIG. 5) displays the symbol variation a predetermined number of times, the gaming state notification means (see the liquid crystal display device 41 shown in FIG. 2). , A gaming state notification ending means for ending the notification of the predetermined gaming state (see the image P1 shown in FIG. 5A) notified at the timing T1 shown in FIG. 4A (see FIG. 5). 14 (see step S210 shown in FIG. 14 and timing T2 shown in FIG. 4 (a)).

On the other hand, according to the invention of claim 2, gaming state notifying means for notifying a predetermined gaming state (see the liquid crystal display device 41 shown in FIG. 2, see timing T10 shown in FIG. 4B, see FIG. 5),
Symbol variation display means (see the liquid crystal display device 41 shown in FIG. 2, see FIG. 5) for displaying the symbol variation when a predetermined condition is satisfied;
Regardless of the number of symbol variations displayed on the symbol variation display means (see the liquid crystal display device 41 shown in FIG. 2, see FIG. 5), the gaming state notification means (see FIG. 2) The notification of the predetermined gaming state (see the image P1 shown in FIG. 5A) notified at the liquid crystal display device 41 shown, the timing T10 shown in FIG. 4B, and FIG. 5) is terminated. And a gaming state notification ending means (see step S210 shown in FIG. 14 and timing T11 shown in FIG. 4B).

On the other hand, according to the invention of claim 3, gaming state notifying means for notifying a predetermined gaming state (refer to the liquid crystal display device 41 shown in FIG. 2, see timing T20 shown in FIG. 4 (c), see FIG. 5) ,
Symbol variation display means (see the liquid crystal display device 41 shown in FIG. 2, see FIG. 5) for displaying the symbol variation when a predetermined condition is satisfied;
Regardless of the number of symbol variations displayed on the symbol variation display means (see the liquid crystal display device 41 shown in FIG. 2, see FIG. 5), the gaming state notification is made when the gaming state shifts to the customer waiting state. Notification of the predetermined gaming state notified by means (see the liquid crystal display device 41 shown in FIG. 2, see timing T21 shown in FIG. 4C, see FIG. 5) (image P1 shown in FIG. 5A) And a gaming state notification ending means (see step S210 shown in FIG. 14, see timing T21 shown in FIG. 4C).

On the other hand, according to the invention of claim 4, gaming state notifying means for notifying a predetermined gaming state (see liquid crystal display device 41 shown in FIG. 2, see timing T30 shown in FIG. 4 (d), see FIG. 5),
Symbol variation display means (see the liquid crystal display device 41 shown in FIG. 2, see FIG. 5) for displaying the symbol variation when a predetermined condition is satisfied;
Effect display means (refer to the liquid crystal display device 41 shown in FIG. 2) for displaying effect contents related to the change of the symbol displayed on the symbol change display means (see the liquid crystal display device 41 shown in FIG. 2, see FIG. 5). When,
When the effect contents are displayed on the effect display means (see the liquid crystal display device 41 shown in FIG. 2), the first operation means (the effect button device 13 shown in FIG. 1) capable of performing an operation according to the effect contents. )When,
A second operating means (setting button 15 shown in FIG. 1) capable of various settings;
Regardless of the number of symbol variations displayed on the symbol variation display means (see the liquid crystal display device 41 shown in FIG. 2, see FIG. 5), the second operation means (setting button 15 shown in FIG. 1) When the predetermined operation is executed, the predetermined game state is notified by the gaming state notification means (see the liquid crystal display device 41 shown in FIG. 2, see the timing T30 shown in FIG. 4D, and FIG. 5). Game state notification end means (see step S210 shown in FIG. 14, see timing T31 shown in FIG. 4D) for ending the game state notification (see image P1 shown in FIG. 5A). It is characterized by becoming.

  On the other hand, according to the invention of claim 5, in the gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 4, the gaming state notification end means (see step S <b> 210 shown in FIG. 14, FIG. 4A). The timing T2 shown, the timing T11 shown in FIG. 4B, the timing T21 shown in FIG. 4C, and the timing T31 shown in FIG. 4D), the predetermined gaming state is determined by the player. When the probability of whether or not to give an advantageous special gaming state is a high probability state higher than the normal probability, the gaming state notification means (see step S210 shown in FIG. 14, timing shown in FIG. 4A) Notification of a predetermined gaming state notified at T2, see timing T11 shown in FIG. 4B, see timing T21 shown in FIG. 4C, and timing T31 shown in FIG. 5 ( ) Reference image P2 shown in) without terminating the is characterized by comprising continues to broadcast.

  ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, while being able to make a player recognize the present game state correctly, the hindrance of an effect can be reduced.

It is a perspective view which shows the external appearance of the game machine which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a front view of the game board of the gaming machine according to the embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the control apparatus of the game machine which concerns on the same embodiment. FIG. 4A is a timing chart showing the current gaming state displayed on the liquid crystal display device according to the embodiment when the predetermined condition is satisfied, and FIG. 4A shows the current gaming state when the special symbol fluctuates a predetermined number of times. A timing chart for ending the display of the gaming state is shown, (b) shows a timing chart for ending the display of the current gaming state when a predetermined time has elapsed, and (c) shows a waiting state for the customer. The timing chart for ending the display of the current gaming state is shown, and (d) is a timing chart for ending the display of the current gaming state when a predetermined operation is performed with the setting button according to the embodiment. FIG. (A) shows an example of a screen showing that the gaming state is a low probability state, and (b) shows an example of a screen showing that the gaming state is a high probability state. It is a flowchart figure explaining the main process of the main control which concerns on the same embodiment. It is a flowchart explaining the timer interruption process of the main control which concerns on the same embodiment. It is a flowchart figure explaining the normal symbol process of the timer interruption process of the main control shown in FIG. It is a flowchart figure explaining the special symbol process of the timer interruption process of the main control shown in FIG. It is a flowchart figure explaining the starting port check process shown in FIG. It is a flowchart figure explaining the special symbol fluctuation start process shown in FIG. It is a flowchart figure explaining the special symbol change process shown in FIG. It is a flowchart figure explaining the special symbol confirmation time process shown in FIG. (A) shows a normal symbol per hit determination table used when executing a normal symbol winning lottery, (b) shows a special symbol jackpot determination table used when executing a special symbol hit lottery, (C) is a figure which shows the special symbol small hit determination table used when performing the lottery determination of a special symbol. It is a flowchart figure explaining the main process of the presentation control which concerns on the same embodiment. It is a flowchart figure which shows the command reception process of the production control which concerns on the same embodiment. It is a flowchart figure which shows the timer interruption process of presentation control which concerns on the same embodiment.

  Hereinafter, an embodiment of a gaming machine according to the present invention will be specifically described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 17, taking a pachinko gaming machine as an example. In addition, in the following description, when showing the direction of up, down, left and right, it means up, down, left and right when viewed from the front of the figure.

<Description of appearance configuration>
First, with reference to FIG.1 and FIG.2, the external appearance structure of the pachinko game machine which concerns on this embodiment is demonstrated.

  As shown in FIG. 1, a pachinko gaming machine 1 has a rectangular front frame 3 attached to the front surface of a wooden outer frame 2 so that it can be opened and closed, and a game board storage frame (see FIG. 1) attached to the back surface of the front frame 3 (Not shown) in which the game board 4 is mounted. The game board 4 is mounted with the game area 40 shown in FIG. 2 facing the front, and a glass door frame 5 supporting transparent glass is provided on the front side of the game area 40 as shown in FIG. . The game area 40 is an area surrounded by a ball guide rail 6 (see FIG. 2) disposed on the surface of the game board 4.

  On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 1, the pachinko gaming machine 1 is provided with a front operation panel 7 below the glass door frame 5, and the front operation panel 7 is provided with an upper tray unit 8. The unit 8 is integrally formed with an upper tray 9 for storing discharged game balls. Further, the front operation panel 7 is provided with a ball lending button 11 and a prepaid card discharge button 12 (card return button 12). A push button type effect button device 13 that can change the effect by pressing when a built-in lamp (not shown) is lit is provided on the upper plate surface portion of the upper tray 9. Further, the upper tray 9 is provided with a ball removal button 14 for pulling out a game ball stored in the upper tray 9 downward, and further, a setting button 15 composed of a substantially cross key is provided. The setting button 15 can be set in various ways, and can be mainly operated by the player. A circular determination key 15a provided at the center and a triangle provided above the determination key 15a in the figure. The upper key 15b of the shape, the triangular left key 15c provided on the left side of the decision key 15a in the figure, the triangular right key 15d provided on the right side of the decision key 15a, and the decision key 15a It comprises a triangular lower key 015e provided on the lower side of the figure.

  On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 1, a launch handle 16 for operating the launch unit is provided on the right end side of the front operation panel 7, near the left side of the launch handle 16 and on both upper side surfaces of the front frame 3. Is provided with a BGM (Background Music) or a speaker 17 that produces sound effects. A decorative lamp such as an LED lamp is disposed on the peripheral frame of the front frame 3.

  On the other hand, in the game area 40 of the game board 4, as shown in FIG. 2, a liquid crystal display device 41 made up of an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) or the like is disposed at a substantially central portion. The liquid crystal display device 41 divides the display area into three areas, left, middle, and right, and can independently display a variable display of special symbols such as numbers, characters, or symbols (decorative symbols). Further, a special symbol start port 42 is disposed directly below the liquid crystal display device 41, and a special symbol start port switch 42a (see FIG. 3) is provided therein. This special symbol start port switch 42a (see FIG. 3) detects a winning of a game ball to the special symbol start port 42. When a winning of a game ball to the special symbol start port 42 is detected, an effective pitch is entered. The number, that is, the number of starting reserved balls is incremented by 1 (+1) and displayed on the liquid crystal display device 41. Note that the number of starting reserved balls can be displayed on the liquid crystal display device 41 by a predetermined number (for example, four), and when the variable display of special symbols such as numbers, characters or symbols (decorative symbols) is started, 1 is subtracted (-1).

  On the other hand, a special winning opening 43 is provided on the right side of the special symbol starting opening 42, and a special winning opening switch 43a (see FIG. 3) for detecting a winning ball is provided therein. A normal symbol start port 44 made of a gate is disposed in the upper right part of the liquid crystal display device 41, and a normal symbol start port switch 44a (see FIG. 3) for detecting the passage of a game ball is provided therein. It has been. Further, on the right side of the special winning opening 43 and the left side of the special symbol starting opening 42, general winning openings 45 are respectively arranged (in the drawing, one on the right side and three on the left side). Each of them is provided with a general winning opening switch 45a (see FIG. 3) for detecting the passage of the game ball.

  On the other hand, in the lower right edge of the game area 40 of the game board 4, three 7 segments are arranged side by side. Of these, two 7 segments are special symbol display devices 46, and the other 7 segments start. The number of reserved balls is displayed. On the left side of the special symbol display device 46, a normal symbol display device 47 composed of two LEDs is provided. A plurality of game nails (not shown) are provided in the game area 40 of the game board 4, and a windmill 48 as a game ball drop direction changing member is provided.

<Description of control device>
Next, a control device that performs electronic control according to the progress of the game provided in the pachinko gaming machine 1 having the above-described external configuration will be described with reference to FIG. As shown in FIG. 3, the control device includes a main control board 60 that controls the overall game operation, a payout control board 70 that pays out a game ball based on a control command from the main control board 60, an image, It is mainly composed of a sub-control board 80 that controls light and sound. As shown in FIG. 3, the sub control board 80 includes an effect control board 90, a decorative lamp board 100, and a liquid crystal control board 120.

  The main control board 60 includes a main control CPU 600, a main control ROM 601 that stores a game program describing a series of game control procedures, and a main control RAM 602 that functions as a work area, a buffer memory, and the like. Equipped with a computer. The main control board 60 configured in this manner is connected to a payout control board 70 that controls the payout motor M to pay out game balls. Further, a special symbol start port switch 42a for detecting a winning of a game ball to the special symbol start port 42, a normal symbol start port switch 44a for detecting the passing of the game ball to the normal symbol start port 44, and a general winning combination. A general winning opening switch 45a for detecting a winning of a game ball to the mouth 45 and a large winning opening switch 43a for detecting a winning of a gaming ball to the big winning opening 43 are connected. Further, a special symbol display device 46 and a normal symbol display device 47 are connected to the main control board 60.

  When the main control board 60 configured as described above receives a signal from the special symbol start port switch 42a or the normal symbol start port switch 44a by the main control CPU 600, the main control board 60 generates a special gaming state advantageous to the player ( So-called “big hit”), or a special game state that is advantageous to the player (so-called “losing”), and a special symbol variation pattern, stop symbol, etc. The display content of the normal symbol is determined, and the determined information is transmitted to the special symbol display device 46 or the normal symbol display device 47. As a result, the lottery result is displayed on the special symbol display device 46 or the normal symbol display device 47. Further, the main control board 60, that is, the main control CPU 600 generates an effect control command DI_CMD including the determined information and transmits it to the effect control board 90. When the main control board 60, that is, the main control CPU 600 receives a signal from the general winning opening switch 45a and the big winning opening switch 43a, it determines how many game balls are to be paid out to the player. A payout control command PAY_CMD including the determined information is transmitted to the payout control board 70. Thereby, the payout control board 70 pays out the game ball to the player.

  More specifically, the payout control board 70 receives a payout control command PAY_CMD from the main control board 60 (main control CPU 600), and generates a payout motor signal based on the received payout control command PAY_CMD. Then, with the generated payout motor signal, the payout motor M is controlled to pay out the game ball to the player. Further, the payout control board 70 transmits a prize ball count signal indicating the payout operation of the game ball and a status signal related to the abnormality of the payout operation, and fires the game ball in response to the operation of the player. The process which transmits the firing control signal which starts or stops operation | movement of is performed.

  On the other hand, the effect control board 90 stores an effect control CPU 900 that executes and controls various effects upon receiving the effect control command DI_CMD from the main control board 60 (main control CPU 600), a control program that describes the effect control procedure, and the like. An effect control ROM 901 composed of a flash memory and an effect control RAM 902 that functions as a work area, a buffer memory, and the like. Further, the effect control board 90 is mounted with a sound LSI 903 for generating desired BGM and sound effects, and a sound ROM 904 in which sound data such as BGM and sound effects are stored in advance.

  The effect control board 90 configured as described above is connected to a decorative lamp board 100 on which a decorative lamp such as an LED lamp that exhibits a lamp effect is mounted, and further includes a built-in lamp (not shown). ) A push button type effect button device 13 that can change the effect by pressing the player when it is lit is connected, and a setting button 15 that can be set by the player mainly is connected. A speaker 17 that emits sound or the like is connected. Furthermore, a liquid crystal control board 120 that controls the liquid crystal display device 41 is connected to the effect control board 90.

  Thus, the effect control board 90 configured as described above is a special symbol variation pattern based on the jackpot lottery result (whether the jackpot or lose) transmitted from the main control board 60 (main control CPU 600), the current game state, the start The effect control CPU 900 receives the effect control command DI_CMD including basic information necessary for the decorative symbols to be stopped based on the number of reserved balls and the lottery result. Then, the effect control CPU 900 determines an effect pattern corresponding to the received effect control command DI_CMD by lottery from a number of effect patterns stored in advance in the effect control ROM 901, and executes the determined effect pattern. The control signal to be instructed is temporarily stored in the effect control RAM 902.

  The effect control CPU 900 transmits a control signal related to sound to the sound LSI 903 among the control signals for instructing execution of the effect pattern stored in the effect control RAM 902. In response to this, the sound LSI 903 reads the sound data corresponding to the control signal from the sound ROM 904 and outputs it to the speaker 17. Thereby, BGM and sound effects corresponding to the determined effect pattern are emitted from the speaker 17.

  In addition, the effect control CPU 900 transmits a control signal related to light to the decorative lamp substrate 100 among the control signals for instructing execution of the effect pattern stored in the effect control RAM 902. As a result, the decorative lamp substrate 100 performs control to turn on or off a decorative lamp such as an LED lamp that exhibits a lamp effect, and thus the lamp effect corresponding to the determined effect pattern is executed. .

  Then, the effect control CPU 900 transmits the liquid crystal control command LCD_CMD related to the image to the liquid crystal control board 120 among the control signals for instructing to execute the effect pattern stored in the effect control RAM 902. As a result, the liquid crystal control board 120 controls the liquid crystal display device 41 to display an image based on the liquid crystal control command LCD_CMD, whereby an image corresponding to the determined effect pattern is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 41. The Rukoto. The liquid crystal control board 120 stores various image data for displaying an image in accordance with the contents of the effect, and further includes a VDP (Video Display Processor) that controls the overall effect output.

  By the way, the power supply to each board | substrate demonstrated above is supplied from the power supply board 130 shown in FIG. In the drawing, the power supply route is omitted.

<Explanation regarding current game status notification>
Here, in the control device described in detail above, the characteristic part of the present embodiment is a part relating to notification of the current gaming state, and this point will be described with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5.

  The timing chart shown in FIG. 4A shows a state in which the current gaming state displayed on the liquid crystal display device 41 ends (disappears) when a predetermined condition is satisfied. Specifically, at timings T1 to T2, the probability that the current gaming state will give a special gaming state advantageous to the player to the liquid crystal display device 41 is a low probability state, that is, a normal game It is displayed that the state has the same probability as the state. That is, it is displayed as shown in the screen example shown in FIG. Specifically, the liquid crystal display device 41 shown in FIG. 5A has “left” (see image PL) “middle” (see image PM) “right” (see image PR) in the center of the screen. The variation state of the combination symbol is displayed, and “Low probability” (see image P1) is displayed above the symbol “right” (see image PR). In this way, by displaying “low probability” (see image P1) on the liquid crystal display device 41, the current gaming state is notified to the player.

  And the display of “low probability” (see image P1) displayed on the liquid crystal display device 41 in this way is when the variation of the special symbol reaches a predetermined number of times (for example, 5 times) at the timing T1 to T2. After the timing T2, it ends, that is, disappears. If the variation of the special symbol does not reach a predetermined number of times (for example, 5 times), the “low probability” (see image P1) shown in FIG. Become.

  Thus, if the display of the current gaming state displayed on the liquid crystal display device 41 is terminated, that is, turned off when the variation of the special symbol reaches a predetermined number of times, the player is notified. It is possible to accurately recognize the current gaming state and to reduce the hindrance to the performance.

  Note that the above method is preferably applied only when the probability of whether or not to give a special gaming state advantageous to the player is a low probability state, that is, a state having the same probability as the normal gaming state. . When the gaming state is a high probability state such as a latent probability changing state, this information is the information that the player wants to know most, so when the special symbol variation reaches a predetermined number of times, the display is terminated. This is because the player may be misunderstood such that the game is in a low probability state, which may reduce the interest of the game. Therefore, as in the screen example shown in FIG. 5B, “high probability” indicating that the probability of whether or not to give a special gaming state advantageous to the player is a high probability state (see image P2). Is displayed, it is preferable to continue the display as it is. Note that the screen example displayed on the liquid crystal display device 41 shown in FIG. 5B has “left” (see image PL) “middle” (see image PM) “right” (see image PR) in the center of the screen. Is displayed, and “high probability” (see image P2) is displayed above the symbol “right” (see image PR).

  By the way, as a method of ending the display (how to erase), the display may disappear suddenly, it may disappear while blinking, or any method may be used.

  On the other hand, not only the method shown in FIG. 4A but also the current gaming state displayed on the liquid crystal display device 41 is displayed when a predetermined condition is satisfied, as shown in FIG. May end (disappear). Specifically, at timings T10 to T11, the liquid crystal display device 41 has a low probability that the current gaming state gives a special gaming state advantageous to the player, that is, a normal game. A state having the same probability as the state is displayed (see image P1 shown in FIG. 5A). Then, as shown in FIG. 4A, regardless of whether or not the variation of the special symbol reaches a predetermined number of times (for example, 5 times), after the predetermined time has passed (see timing T11), the liquid crystal display device 41 The display of the current game state (low probability state) being displayed (see image P1 shown in FIG. 5A) ends, that is, disappears.

  Even in this case, the current gaming state displayed on the liquid crystal display device 41 is terminated after the predetermined time has elapsed, that is, the display is turned off. Can be recognized accurately, and the hindrance to the production can be reduced. This method is also preferably applied only when the probability of whether or not to give a special gaming state advantageous to the player is a low probability state, that is, a state having the same probability as the normal gaming state.

  On the other hand, not only the methods shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B but also the current gaming state displayed on the liquid crystal display device 41 satisfies a predetermined condition as shown in FIG. 4C. When it is done, the display may end (disappear). Specifically, at timings T20 to T21, the probability that the current gaming state will give a special gaming state advantageous to the player to the liquid crystal display device 41 is a low probability state, that is, a normal game A state having the same probability as the state is displayed (see image P1 shown in FIG. 5A). And as shown to Fig.4 (a), regardless of whether the fluctuation | variation of a special symbol reaches predetermined times (for example, 5 times), at timing T21, a gaming state will be in the customer waiting state which waits for a player. Display of the current gaming state (low probability state) displayed on the liquid crystal display device 41 (for example, when a demonstration screen is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 41 or when the power saving mode is entered) (see FIG. 5 (a) (see image P1) ends, that is, disappears.

  Even in such a case, when the game state becomes the waiting state for the customer waiting for the player, the display is ended, that is, the current game state displayed on the liquid crystal display device 41 is turned off. As a result, the player can be made to accurately recognize the current gaming state, and the hindrance to the production can be reduced. This method is also preferably applied only when the probability of whether or not to give a special gaming state advantageous to the player is a low probability state, that is, a state having the same probability as the normal gaming state.

  On the other hand, not only the methods shown in FIGS. 4A to 4C but also the current gaming state displayed on the liquid crystal display device 41 satisfies a predetermined condition as shown in FIG. 4D. When it is done, the display may end (disappear). More specifically, at timings T30 to T31, the liquid crystal display device 41 has a low probability that the current gaming state gives a special gaming state advantageous to the player, that is, a normal game. A state having the same probability as the state is displayed (see image P1 shown in FIG. 5A). As shown in FIG. 4A, regardless of whether or not the variation of the special symbol reaches a predetermined number of times (for example, 5 times), the player sets the setting button 15 (for example, the setting button 15 at time T31). When the determination key 15a) is pressed, the display of the current gaming state (low probability state) displayed on the liquid crystal display device 41 (see the image P1 shown in FIG. 5A) ends, that is, disappears. It becomes. Since the effect button device 13 can change the effect, the operation of the effect button device 13 does not end the display of the current gaming state (low probability state), that is, does not disappear. It is preferable to do this.

  Even in this case, when the player presses the setting button 15 (for example, the determination key 15a of the setting button 15), the display of the current gaming state displayed on the liquid crystal display device 41 is displayed. Since it is finished, that is, erased, it is possible to make the player accurately recognize the current gaming state and reduce the hindrance to the performance. This method is also preferably applied only when the probability of whether or not to give a special gaming state advantageous to the player is a low probability state, that is, a state having the same probability as the normal gaming state.

  Further, the setting button 15 may be configured to set whether or not to end the display of the current gaming state (low probability state) displayed on the liquid crystal display device 41 on the menu screen. This menu screen is displayed when a liquid crystal display 41 displays a customer waiting screen (demonstration screen or power saving mode screen) waiting for the player indicating that the player is suspending the game. When the setting button 15 (see FIG. 1) is operated by this, it is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 41.

  Next, based on the above contents, the processing contents regarding the notification of the current gaming state processed by the main control board 60 and the effect control board 90 will be specifically described with reference to FIGS.

<Description of main control board processing>
First, an outline of a program stored in the main control ROM 601 of the main control board 60 according to the characteristic part of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.

<Main control board: description of main processing>
First, when the pachinko gaming machine 1 is turned on, a power-on signal indicating that the power is turned on to each control board is sent from the power board 130 (see FIG. 3), and the main control CPU 600 receives the signal. (See FIG. 3) performs the main control main process shown in FIG. First, the main control CPU 600 sets itself to an interrupt disabled state (step S1), and performs initial setting of register values and the like in the main control CPU 600 (step S2).

  Subsequently, the main control CPU 600 acquires the voltage abnormality signal ALARM (not shown) output from the power supply board 130 twice, and confirms whether or not the level of the voltage abnormality signal ALARM acquired twice coincides. Then, it is stored in an internal register of the main control CPU 600 (not shown), and the level of the voltage abnormality signal ALARM is confirmed (step S3). If the level of the voltage abnormality signal ALARM is “L” level (step S4: YES), the process returns to step S3. If the level of the voltage abnormality signal ALARM is “H” level (step S4: NO), The process proceeds to step S5. That is, main control CPU 600 repeats the same processing until voltage abnormality signal ALARM changes to a normal level (that is, “H” level) (steps S3 to S4). Thus, an accurate signal can be read by acquiring the voltage abnormality signal ALARM twice.

  Next, the main control CPU 600 permits data writing to the main control RAM 602 (see FIG. 3) (step S5). Thus, by prohibiting data writing to the main control RAM 602 until the normal level (normal value) of the voltage abnormality signal ALARM is detected, the external power supply (AC voltage AC24V) supplied to the power supply substrate 130 is stabilized. It is possible to prevent a situation in which an unstable signal accesses the main control RAM 602 and rewrites data stored in the main control RAM 602 before being supplied.

  Next, the main control CPU 600 transmits a standby screen display command for causing the liquid crystal display device 41 to display a standby screen as an effect control command DI_CMD to the effect control board 90 (step S6), and determines the contents of the backup flag BFL (step S6). Step S7). The backup flag BFL is data indicating whether or not the voltage monitoring processing operation shown in FIG. 7 has been executed.

  If this backup flag BFL is in the OFF state (step S7: OFF), the voltage monitoring processing operation shown in FIG. 7 to be described later is not executed, and the main control CPU 600 completes the entire area in the main control RAM 602. A clearing process is performed (step S11). On the other hand, if the backup flag BFL is in the ON state (step S7: ON), the operation of the voltage monitoring process shown in FIG. 7 to be described later is being executed, so the main control CPU 600 calculates the checksum value. The checksum operation for this is performed (step S8). The checksum operation is an 8-bit addition operation for the work area of the main control RAM 602.

  When the checksum value is calculated, the main control CPU 600 performs a process of comparing the calculation result with the stored value at the SUM address in the main control RAM 602 (step S9). The stored calculation result is maintained by a backup power source generated by the power supply board 130 together with other data stored in the main control RAM 602.

  If the stored value at the SUM address does not match the checksum value calculated in step S8 (step S9: NO), the main control CPU 600 clears all areas in the main control RAM 602. It performs (step S11). If they match (step S9: YES), the main control CPU 600 performs a process for returning to the gaming operation at the time of power-off based on the data stored in the main control RAM 602 (step S10).

  Next, the main control CPU 600 performs setting of CTC (Counter Timer Circuit) having a function of creating a pulse output of a constant period, a function of time measurement, and the like provided therein after the processing of Step S10 and Step S11. . That is, the main control CPU 600 sets the CTC time constant register so that a timer interrupt is periodically generated every 4 ms (step S12).

  Next, the main control CPU 600 performs update processing of various random number counters (step S14) in a state where the interruption to itself is set to a prohibited state (step S13). In these various random number update processes, the normal value per-symbol determination initial value random number used to change the initial value of the normal symbol per-symbol determination random number NPP_CNT used for the normal symbol success / failure lottery and the special symbol variation pattern command are determined. Update of random numbers for variation patterns used for lottery for the purpose.

  After that, the main control CPU 600 returns to the interrupt permission state (step S15) and performs a process of returning to step S13.

<Main control board: Explanation of timer interrupt processing>
Next, with reference to FIG. 7, a timer interrupt program started every 4 ms by interrupting the main process described above will be described. When this timer interruption occurs, a saving process for saving the contents of the register group in the main control CPU 600 to the stack area of the main control RAM 602 is executed (step S20), and then a voltage monitoring process is executed (step S21). In this voltage monitoring process, the level of the voltage abnormality signal ALARM output from the power supply board 130 (see FIG. 3) is determined. If the voltage abnormality signal ALARM is “L” level (abnormal level), it is stored in the main control RAM 602. The stored data is backed up, that is, a checksum value of the data is calculated, and the calculated checksum value is stored in the main control RAM 602 as backup data.

  Next, when the voltage monitoring process (step S21) ends, the main control CPU 600 performs a timer subtraction process for a timer that manages the time of each gaming operation (step S22). The timer subtracted here is used to manage the opening time of the special winning opening 43 (see FIG. 2), the game effect time such as the normal symbol fluctuation time, the special symbol fluctuation time, the fraud information timer, and the like. Is.

  Subsequently, the main control CPU 600 includes a special symbol starting port switch 42a (see FIG. 3), a normal symbol starting port switch 44a (see FIG. 3), a general winning port switch 45a (see FIG. 3), and a big winning port. The ON / OFF signals of various switches including the switch 43a (see FIG. 3) are input, and the ON / OFF signal level and the rising state thereof are stored in the work area in the main control RAM 602 (step S23). Note that this switch input process also performs a process of invalidating the standing-up state (winning invalid) when there is an illegal winning, and in order to pay out a winning ball, the above-mentioned large winning opening switch 43a and the general winning opening switch 45a. It also counts how many game balls have won.

  Thereafter, the main control CPU 600 performs error management processing (step S24). Note that the error management process includes a determination as to whether or not an abnormality has occurred inside the device, such as supply of game balls being stopped or game balls being clogged.

  Next, the main control CPU 600 executes prize ball management processing (step S25). In this prize ball management process, a payout control command PAY_CMD for causing the payout control board 70 (see FIG. 3) to perform a payout operation is output.

  Next, the main control CPU 600 executes a random number management process for updating the random numbers related to each variable display game (step S26). This random number management process executes a process for updating the normal symbol per-determination random number NPP_CNT used for the success / failure lottery, a process for updating the special symbol random number for determining the type of the special symbol, and the like.

  Next, the main control CPU 600 executes normal symbol processing (step S27). In this normal symbol processing, a normal symbol winning lottery is executed, and a variation pattern of the normal symbol and a stop display state of the normal symbol are determined based on the lottery result. The details of this normal symbol processing will be described later.

  Next, the main control CPU 600 executes special symbol processing (step S28). In this special symbol process, whether or not a special symbol is selected is determined, and a variation pattern of the special symbol and a stop display mode of the special symbol (stop special symbol) are determined based on the result of the lottery. Details of this special symbol process will be described later.

  Next, the main control CPU 600 executes LED management processing (step S29). This LED management process is a process of generating output data to the special symbol display device 46 or the normal symbol display device 47 or outputting a control signal based on the data according to the progress of the process.

  Next, the main control CPU 600 executes a solenoid driving process for realizing the opening / closing operation of the special prize opening 43 (see FIG. 2) (step S30), returns to the interrupt permission state (step S31), and stacks the main control RAM 602. The contents of the register saved in the area are restored and the timer interrupt is finished (step S32). As a result, the process returns from the interrupt process routine to the main process (see FIG. 6).

<Main control board: Description of normal symbol processing>
Next, the normal symbol process (step S27 in FIG. 7) will be described in detail with reference to FIG. As shown in FIG. 8, in the normal symbol processing, first, it is confirmed whether or not the passing of the game ball is detected at the normal symbol starting port 44 (see FIG. 2) consisting of a gate, that is, the normal symbol starting port switch 44a. Is checked (step S40). When the passing of the game ball is detected (step S40: YES), the main control CPU 600 stores the number of normal symbol start reserved balls to determine whether or not the number of normal symbol start reserved balls is maximum (for example, 4 or more). The normal symbol start holding area in the main control RAM 602 that has been set is confirmed (step S41). If the number of normal symbol start reserved balls is not the maximum (that is, less than 4) (step S41: ≠ MAX), the number of normal symbol start reserved balls is incremented by 1 (+1) (step S42).

  Next, the main control CPU 600 extracts a random number value for the normal symbol per-determination random number NPP_CNT updated in step S26 shown in FIG. 7, and stores the extracted random number value in the normal symbol start hold storage area in the main control RAM 602. After storing (step S43), the process proceeds to step S44.

  On the other hand, if the main control CPU 600 does not detect the passing of the game ball in step S40 (step S40: NO), or the normal design starting reserved ball number is maximum (ie, 4 or more) in step S41. (Step S41: = MAX), the process of steps S42 to S43 is not performed, and the process proceeds to step S44.

  When the process proceeds to step S44 in this way, the main control CPU 600 confirms whether the normal symbol operation flag is set to ON, that is, whether the normal symbol operation flag is set to 5AH (step S44). ). If 5 AH is set in the normal symbol per operation flag (step S44: ON), it is determined that the normal symbol is hit, and after updating the display data of the normal symbol (step S53), FIG. The normal symbol process of step S27 shown is finished.

  On the other hand, if 5AH is not set in the normal symbol operation flag (step S44: OFF), the processing state indicating the behavior of the normal symbol, that is, the value of the normal symbol operation status flag is confirmed (step S45). If the normal symbol operation status flag is 00H, the main control CPU 600 determines that the state is the state before the start of normal symbol variation, and proceeds to step S46 to check whether the normal symbol start holding ball number is 0 or not. (Step S46). At this time, when the main control CPU 600 confirms the normal symbol start reserved storage area in the main control RAM 602 in which the number of normal symbol start reserved balls is stored and determines that it is 0 (step S46: = 0), it is normal. After the symbol display data is updated (step S53), the normal symbol processing of step S27 shown in FIG. 7 is finished.

  On the other hand, when determining that it is not 0 (step S46: ≠ 0), the main control CPU 600 subtracts 1 (-1) from the number of normal symbol start reserved balls (step S47). After that, the main control CPU 600 makes a hit determination using the random number of the normal symbol per-determination random number NPP_CNT stored in the normal symbol start holding storage area in the main control RAM 602 in step S43. Specifically, the normal symbol hit determination is performed by comparing the random number value of the normal symbol per-determination random number NPP_CNT with the determination value stored in the normal symbol per-determination determination table NPP_TBL shown in FIG. . That is, as shown in FIG. 14A, the normal symbol hit determination table NPP_TBL stores 249 as the lower limit value and 250 as the upper limit value when the game state is the normal state, and the game state is the probable change state (win lottery In the case of a probability fluctuation state in which the probability is higher than usual, 4 is stored as the lower limit value and 250 as the upper limit value. Therefore, when the gaming state is the normal state and the random number value of the random number NPP_CNT for normal symbol determination is 249 to 250, the normal symbol is winning and the other random number values are lost. When the gaming state is a probable change state and the random number value for the normal symbol per random symbol NPP_CNT is 4 to 250, the normal symbol is a win and the other random numbers are lost. In this way, the hit determination of the random number NPP_CNT for the normal symbol determination stored in the normal symbol start holding storage area in the main control RAM 602 in step S43 is performed (step S48).

  Next, the main control CPU 600 determines a stop symbol (ordinary symbol stop symbol) based on the lottery result in step 48 (step S49).

  Next, the main control CPU 600 checks whether the normal symbol time reduction flag for shortening the normal symbol variation time is set to ON. If it is set to ON, the main control CPU 600 sets the normal symbol variation timer to the corresponding variation time. If it is set to OFF, a process of setting a normal fluctuation time in the normal symbol fluctuation timer is performed (step S50).

  Next, the main control CPU 600 shifts the storage area in the main control RAM 602 in which random numbers used for the normal symbol corresponding lottery corresponding to the number of normal symbol starting reserved balls are stored (step S51). That is, if it is possible to hold up to four normal symbol start hold balls, the random number used for the normal symbol corresponding to normal symbol start hold 4 can be determined as the normal symbol corresponding lottery corresponding to normal symbol start hold 3. Shift to the main control RAM 602 area where the random number value used for the normal symbol is stored, and the random number value used for the normal symbol corresponding to the normal symbol start hold 3 for the normal symbol corresponding to the normal symbol start hold 2 Shift to the main control RAM 602 area where the random value used for the normal symbol is stored, and the random number used for the normal symbol corresponding to the normal symbol start hold 2 for the normal symbol corresponding to the normal symbol start hold 1 A process of shifting to the main control RAM 602 area in which the random number value used in is stored.

  After this processing, the main control CPU 600 sets 01H to the normal symbol operation status flag used in the above step S45, and the random number value used for the normal symbol start / stop lottery corresponding to the normal symbol start hold 4 is stored. The process of setting 00H in the area of the main control RAM 602 is performed (step S52).

  Then, after finishing the process of step S52, the main control CPU 600 updates the display data of the normal symbol (step S53), and ends the normal symbol process of step S27 shown in FIG.

  On the other hand, in step S45, the main control CPU 600 determines that the normal symbol is changing if the processing state indicating the behavior of the normal symbol, that is, the value of the normal symbol operation status flag is 01H. It is confirmed whether or not the variation timer is 0 (step S54). If the normal symbol variation timer is not 0 (step S54: 0), the normal symbol display data is updated (step S53), and the normal symbol processing of step S27 shown in FIG.

  On the other hand, if the normal symbol variation timer is 0 (step S54: = 0), the main control CPU 600 sets 02H to the normal symbol operation status flag used in step S45, and the normal symbol win / fail lottery result is constant. In order to maintain the time, for example, a time of about 600 ms is set in the normal symbol variation timer (step S55).

  The main control CPU 600 updates the normal symbol display data after completing the process of step S55 (step S53), and ends the normal symbol process of step S27 shown in FIG.

  On the other hand, in step S45, the main control CPU 600 determines that the normal symbol is in the confirmation time if the processing state indicating the behavior of the normal symbol, that is, the value of the normal symbol operation status flag is 02H (the variation of the normal symbol is completed). It is determined that the normal symbol variation timer is 0 (step S56). If the normal symbol variation timer is not 0 (step S56: ≠ 0), the normal symbol display data is updated (step S53), and the normal symbol processing of step S27 shown in FIG.

  On the other hand, if the normal symbol variation timer is 0 (step S56: = 0), the main control CPU 600 sets 00H in the normal symbol operation status flag used in step S45 (step S57), and the normal symbol hit determination is performed. It is confirmed whether the flag is set to ON (5AH is set) (step S58).

  Accordingly, if the normal symbol hit determination flag is set to OFF (5AH is not set) (step S58: OFF), the main control CPU 600 updates the display data of the normal symbol (step S53), The normal symbol process of step S27 shown in FIG. On the other hand, if the normal symbol hit determination flag is set to ON (5AH is set) (step S58: ON), the main control CPU 600 turns on the normal symbol hit flag used in step S44 (sets 5AH). (Step S59), the normal symbol display data is updated (step S53), and the normal symbol processing of step S27 shown in FIG. 7 is completed.

<Main control board: Description of special symbol processing>
Next, the special symbol process (step S28 in FIG. 7) will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. As shown in FIG. 9, in the special symbol process, first, a game ball entry (winning ball) is detected at the special symbol start port 42 a (see FIG. 3) of the special symbol start port 42 (see FIG. 2). Whether or not (step S70).

<Special symbol processing: Start-up check processing>
This process will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 10. The main control CPU 600 confirms whether or not a game ball has entered (wins) the special symbol start opening 42, that is, the special symbol start of the special symbol start opening 42. The level of the mouth switch 42a is confirmed (step S80). Thus, if the game ball entry (winning) is not detected (step S80: NO), the process of step S70 shown in FIG. 9 is ended.

  On the other hand, if a game ball entry (winning) is detected (step S80: YES), the main control CPU 600 has a predetermined number of special symbol start-and-hold balls serving as a special symbol change trigger, and a special symbol in the main control RAM 602. It is confirmed whether it is stored in the start hold storage area (step S81). If the number of special symbol start reserved balls is less than 4 (step S81: ≠ MAX), the number of special symbol start reserved balls is incremented by 1 (step S82).

  Next, the main control CPU 600 obtains the special symbol random number value and the variation pattern random number value used when stopping the special symbol updated in step S14 of FIG. 6 and step S26 of FIG. The hardware random number (random number generated by the hardware circuit) built in the CPU 600 (random number value for jackpot determination) is acquired, and each random number value is a special symbol start holding ball that triggers the variation of the special symbol. The number is stored in the special symbol start suspension storage area in the main control RAM 602 in which the number is stored (step S83).

  Next, the main control CPU 600 confirms the current gaming state (whether or not the special symbol jackpot determination flag is set to ON, etc.) and determines whether or not prefetching is prohibited (step S84). If it is not in the prefetch prohibition state (step S84: NO), the main control CPU 600 is used for determining whether or not to win the special symbol stored in the special symbol start holding storage area in the main control RAM 602 in step S83. A random value is acquired (step S85), and a start opening winning random number determination table (not shown) is acquired (step S86).

  Next, the main control CPU 600 performs a jackpot lottery using the jackpot determination random number value acquired in step S85 and the starting opening winning random number determination table acquired in step S86, and further in step S83 The jackpot type (15R probability variation jackpot, 15R non-probable variation jackpot, etc.) is determined using the special symbol random number value stored in the special start hold storage area in the control RAM 602, and the variation pattern random number value is used to determine the variation pattern. And a special symbol start opening prize command corresponding to it is generated (step S87).

  Next, the main control CPU 600 generates a lower-order start hold addition command corresponding to the generated special symbol start port winning command (step S88).

  On the other hand, the main control CPU 600 finishes the process of step S88, or determines whether the number of special symbol starting reserved balls is 4 or more in step S81 (step S81: = MAX), or is in a prefetch prohibition state. If this is the case (step S84: YES), an upper-order start hold addition command corresponding to the increased start hold ball number is generated (step S89).

  Next, the main control CPU 600 combines the lower byte start hold addition command generated in step S88 and the upper byte start hold addition command generated in step S89, and then produces the start hold addition command. The control command DI_CMD is transmitted to the effect control board 90 (see FIG. 3) (step S90), and the process of step S70 shown in FIG. 9 is finished.

<Main control board: Description of special symbol processing>
Thus, when the process of step S70 shown in FIG. 9 is completed, the main control CPU 600 confirms whether the special symbol small hit operation flag is set to ON, that is, whether the special symbol small hit operation flag is set to 5AH. (Step S71). If 5AH is set in the special symbol small hit operation flag (step S71: ON), it is determined that the special symbol is in the small hit state, and the display data of the special symbol is updated (step S77). The special symbol process of step S28 shown in FIG.

  On the other hand, if 5AH is not set in the special symbol small hit operation flag (step S71: OFF), is the special symbol big hit operation flag set to ON, that is, whether the special symbol big hit operation flag is set to 5AH? Is confirmed (step S72). If the special symbol jackpot operation flag is set to 5AH (step S72: ON), it is determined that the special symbol is jackpot, and after updating the display data of the special symbol (step S77), FIG. The special symbol process of step S28 shown is terminated.

  On the other hand, if 5AH is not set in the special symbol jackpot operation flag (step S72: OFF), the processing state indicating the behavior of the special symbol, that is, the value of the special symbol operation status flag is confirmed (step S73). More specifically, if the value of the special symbol operation status flag is 00H or 01H, the main control CPU 600 is in a special symbol variation standby state (the special symbol variation is not performed and is in a standby state for the next variation. And a special symbol variation start process is performed (step S74).

<Special symbol processing: Explanation of special symbol variation start processing>
This process will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 11. The main control CPU 600 confirms whether or not the number of special symbol start reserved balls is 0 (step S100). That is, the main control CPU 600 confirms the special symbol start reserved storage area in the main control RAM 602, and determines that the number of special symbol start reserved balls is 0 (step S100: = 0), the special symbol operation status flag It is confirmed whether the value is 00H (step S101). If the value of the special symbol operation status flag is 00H (step S101: YES), the special symbol variation start process in step S74 shown in FIG. 9 is terminated.

  On the other hand, if the value of the special symbol operation status flag is not 00H (step S101: NO), the main control CPU 600 transmits the customer waiting demo command to the effect control board 90 (see FIG. 3) as the effect control command DI_CMD (step 3). S102). In response to this, the effect control board 90 (effect control CPU 900) transmits a liquid crystal control command LCD_CMD to the liquid crystal control board 120, so that at the timing T21 shown in FIG. ) Is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 41.

  Next, the main control CPU 600 sets 00H in the special symbol operation status flag (step S103), and ends the special symbol variation start process in step S74 shown in FIG.

  On the other hand, when the main control CPU 600 determines that the number of special symbol start reservation balls is not 0 (step S100: ≠ 0), the main control CPU 600 subtracts 1 (-1) from the number of special symbol start reservation balls (step S104), and starts start subtraction. The command is transmitted to the effect control board 90 (see FIG. 3) as an effect control command DI_CMD (step S105).

  Next, the main control CPU 600, similar to the process of step S51 shown in FIG. 8, uses a random number value (for the jackpot determination stored in step S83 of FIG. 10) used for the lottery of the special symbol corresponding to the number of special symbol start reserved balls. The storage area in the main control RAM 602 in which the random number value is stored is shifted (step S106), and the random number value used in the lottery for the special symbol corresponding to the special symbol start hold 4 is stored in the main control RAM 602. 0 is set in the area (step S107).

  Next, the main control CPU 600 performs a hit determination using the jackpot determination random number stored in the special symbol start holding storage area in the main control RAM 602 in step S83 of FIG. Specifically, the jackpot determination random number value is compared with the determination value stored in the special symbol jackpot determination table SDH_TBL shown in FIG. 14B, or the special symbol small hit determination shown in FIG. 14C. Comparison with the determination values stored in the table SDP_TBL is performed to determine whether or not the special symbol is hit. That is, in the special symbol jackpot determination table SDH_TBL, as shown in FIG. 14B, when the gaming state is the normal state, 10001 is stored as the lower limit value and 10164 is stored as the upper limit value. In the case of a probability variation state in which the probability is higher than normal, a lower limit value of 10001 and an upper limit value of 11640 are stored. Therefore, when the gaming state is the normal state and the jackpot determination random number value is 10001 to 10164, the special symbol is a jackpot, and the other random number values are lost. When the gaming state is a probabilistic state and the jackpot determination random number value is 10001-1640, the special symbol is a jackpot, and the other random number values are lost. Further, in the special symbol small hit determination table SDP_TBL, as shown in FIG. 14C, 20001 is stored as the lower limit value and 20164 is stored as the upper limit value. Therefore, when the jackpot determination random number is 20001 to 20164, the special symbol is a small hit, and the other random numbers are lost. In this way, the hit determination of the jackpot determination random number stored in the special symbol start holding storage area in the main control RAM 602 in step S83 of FIG. 10 is performed (step S108).

  Next, the main control CPU 600 generates a special symbol stop symbol using the special symbol random number value stored in the special symbol start holding storage area in the main control RAM 602 in step S83 of FIG. 10 (step S109).

  Next, the main control CPU 600 makes preparations for shifting to a gaming state such as a normal state (low probability state), a short time state, a latent probability changing state, and a sudden probability state. At this time, the main control CPU 600 transmits an effect control command DI_CMD indicating the current gaming state to the effect control board 90 (see FIG. 3) (step S110).

  Next, the main control CPU 600 generates a special symbol variation pattern using the variation pattern random number value stored in the special symbol start holding storage area in the main control RAM 602 in step S83 of FIG. 10 (step S111). At this time, the variation time is set in the special symbol variation timer.

  Next, the main control CPU 600 sets 5AH to the special symbol changing flag and turns it on (step S112).

  Next, the main control CPU 600 generates a special symbol designation command for a special symbol displayed on the liquid crystal display device 41 (see FIG. 2) (step S113), and effects control is performed using the generated special symbol designation command as an effect control command DI_CMD. Processing to transmit to the substrate 90 (see FIG. 3) is performed (step S114). In response to this, the effect control board 90 (effect control CPU 900) transmits a liquid crystal control command LCD_CMD for displaying the variation of the special symbol to the liquid crystal control board 120. When the liquid crystal control board 120 controls the liquid crystal display device 41 to display the special symbol variation screen, the special symbol variation screen is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 41 (the images PL, PM. (See PR).

  Next, main control CPU 600 sets 02H in the special symbol operation status flag (step S115), and ends the special symbol variation start process in step S74 shown in FIG.

  On the other hand, if the value of the special symbol operation status flag is 02H in step S73 shown in FIG. 9, main control CPU 600 determines that the special symbol is changing (indicating that the special symbol is currently changing). Then, special symbol variation processing is performed (step S75).

<Special symbol processing: Explanation of special symbol variation processing>
This process will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 12. First, the main control CPU 600 determines whether or not the variation time set in the special symbol variation timer has elapsed in step S111 in FIG. Is confirmed (step S120). If the special symbol variation timer is not 0 (step S120: NO), the main control CPU 600 ends the special symbol variation processing of step S75 shown in FIG.

  On the other hand, if the special symbol variation timer is 0 (step S120: YES), the main control CPU 600 transmits a variation stop command as an effect control command DI_CMD to the effect control board 90 (see FIG. 3) (step S121). In response to this, the effect control board 90 (effect control CPU 900) transmits a liquid crystal control command LCD_CMD for stopping the variation of the special symbol to the liquid crystal control board 120. Then, when the liquid crystal control board 120 controls the liquid crystal display device 41 to display a special symbol variation stop screen, the special symbol stop screen (that is, a screen for determining whether or not the special symbol is a big hit) is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 41. Will be displayed.

  Next, main control CPU 600 sets 03H for the special symbol operation status flag and 00H for the special symbol changing flag. Further, the main control CPU 600 sets, for example, a time of about 500 ms in the special symbol variation timer in order to maintain the special symbol success / failure lottery result for a certain time (step S122). Thereafter, the main control CPU 600 ends the special symbol changing process of step S75 shown in FIG.

  On the other hand, if the value of the special symbol operation status flag is 03H in step S73 shown in FIG. 9, the main control CPU 600 is confirming the special symbol (indicating that the special symbol has ended and has stopped). And the special symbol confirmation time processing is performed (step S76).

<Special symbol processing: Explanation of special symbol confirmation processing>
This process will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 13. First, the main control CPU 600 determines whether or not the variation time set in the special symbol variation timer has elapsed in step S111 in FIG. Is confirmed (step S130). If the special symbol variation timer is not 0 (step S130 ≠ 0), the main control CPU 600 ends the special symbol confirmation time process of step S76 shown in FIG.

  On the other hand, if the special symbol variation timer is 0 (step S130 = 0), the main control CPU 600 sets 01H to the special symbol operation status flag (step S131), and is the special symbol jackpot determination flag set to ON? (5AH is set) is confirmed (step S132). If the special symbol jackpot determination flag is set to ON (if 5AH is set) (step S132: YES), the special symbol jackpot determination flag is set to 00H and used in step S72 of FIG. Set the symbol jackpot activation flag to 5AH, set the normal symbol hour / short flag to 00H, set the normal symbol probability variation flag to 00H, set the special symbol hour / short flag to 00H, and set the special symbol probability variation flag to 00H. The setting is performed and 00H is set in a special symbol short time counter and a special symbol probability variable counter described later (step S133). Thereafter, main control CPU 600 ends the special symbol confirmation time process in step S76 shown in FIG.

  On the other hand, if the special symbol big hit determination flag is not set to ON (if 5AH is not set) (step S132: NO), the main control CPU 600 determines whether the special symbol small hit determination flag is set to ON ( Whether 5AH is set is confirmed (step S134). If the special symbol small hit determination flag is set to ON (if 5AH is set) (step S134: YES), the special symbol small hit determination flag is set to 00H and used in step 71 of FIG. The special symbol small hit operation flag to be set is set to 5AH (step S135).

  The main control CPU 600 finishes the process of step S135 or if the special symbol small hit determination flag is not set to ON (if 5AH is not set) (step S134: NO), the special symbol time is shortened. It is checked whether or not the value of the number counter is 0 (step S136).

  If the value of the special symbol time counter is not 0 (step S136: NO), the value of the special symbol time counter is decremented by 1 (-1) (step S137), and the main control CPU 600 again performs the special symbol time counter. It is confirmed whether or not the counter value is 0 (step S138). If the value of the special symbol short time counter is 0 (step S138: YES), 00H is set to the normal symbol short time flag, 00H is set to the normal symbol probability change flag, and 00H is set to the normal symbol short time flag. Is set (step S139).

  After the process of step S139 is completed, or the value of the special symbol time reduction counter is 0 (step S136: YES), or the value of the special symbol time reduction counter is not 0 (step S138: NO), The control CPU 600 checks whether or not the value of the special symbol probability variation counter is 0 (step S140). If the value of the special symbol probability variation counter is 0 (step S140: YES), the main control CPU 600 ends the special symbol confirmation time process of step S76 shown in FIG.

  On the other hand, if the value of the special symbol probability variation counter is not 0 (step S140: NO), the main control CPU 600 subtracts 1 from the value of the special symbol probability variation counter (-1) (step S141), and again the special symbol. It is checked whether the value of the probability variation counter is 0 (step S142). If the value of the special symbol probability variation counter is not 0 (step S142: NO), the main control CPU 600 ends the special symbol confirmation time processing in step S76 shown in FIG.

  On the other hand, if the value of the special symbol probability variation counter is 0 (step S142: YES), the main control CPU 600 sets 00H for the normal symbol time variation flag, sets 00H for the normal symbol probability variation flag, and sets the special symbol time variation flag. Is set to 00H and the special symbol probability changing flag is set to 00H (step S143), and the special symbol confirmation time processing in step S76 shown in FIG. 9 is terminated.

<Main control board: Description of special symbol processing>
In this way, the main control CPU 600 ends the special symbol variation start process (step S74), the special symbol variation process (step S75), or the special symbol confirmation time process (step S76) shown in FIG. After the special symbol display data is updated (step S77), the special symbol processing of step S28 shown in FIG. 7 is terminated.

<Description of production control board processing>
Next, an outline of a program stored in the effect control ROM 901 of the effect control board 90 according to the characteristic part of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.

<Production control board: main processing>
First, when the pachinko gaming machine 1 is turned on, a power-on signal indicating that the power is turned on is sent from the power board 130 (see FIG. 3) to each control board. Performs the effect control main process shown in FIG. The effect control CPU 900 first initializes a register provided therein and sets the input / output direction of the input / output port. Further, the data transmitted from the output port set in the output direction is set to be serial transfer (step S200).

  After the setting, the effect control CPU 900 initializes a memory area in the effect control RAM 902 that stores the effect control command DI_CMD received from the main control board 60 (main control CPU 600) (step S201). Then, the effect control CPU 900 performs an interrupt permission setting process for the input port that receives the interrupt signal from the main control board 60 (main control CPU 600) (step S202).

  Next, the effect control CPU 900 initializes a memory area in the effect control RAM 902 used as a work area and a stack area (step S203), and issues an initialization command to the sound LSI 903 (see FIG. 3). Thereby, the sound LSI 903 initializes a register provided therein (step S204).

  Next, the effect control CPU 900 checks whether or not an abnormality has occurred in a motor that operates a movable accessory (not shown), and a memory area in the effect control RAM 902 in which motor data for operating the motor is stored. When the abnormal data is stored, the effect control CPU 900 issues a command to return the motor to the origin position. As a result, the movable accessory returns to the initial position (step S205).

  Next, the effect control CPU 900 performs setting of a CTC (Counter Timer Circuit) having a function of creating a pulse output with a constant period and a function of time measurement provided therein. That is, the effect control CPU 900 sets the CTC time constant register so that a timer interrupt is periodically generated every 1 ms (step S206).

  After finishing the above processing, the effect control CPU 900 confirms whether or not it is the main loop update period. Specifically, the remainder when the main loop counter ML_CNT that counts in a loop from 0 to 31 is divided by 16 (that is, divided by 16) is confirmed, and if the remainder is 0 (step S207: YES). Then, the process proceeds to step S209, and if it is other than 0 (step S207: NO), a process of updating the random number value of the notice effect is performed (step S208). A method for incrementing (+1) the main loop counter ML_CNT will be described later.

  Next, the production control CPU 900 produces a control signal necessary to turn on or off the decorative lamps such as LED lamps mounted on the decorative lamp substrate 100 (see FIG. 3) generated in step S211 to be described later. A process of writing to the memory area in the control RAM 902 is performed (step S209).

  Subsequently, the effect control CPU 900 reads the effect control command DI_CMD received from the main control board 60 (main control CPU 600) stored in the memory area in the effect control RAM 902, and displays an effect pattern according to the contents. A lottery effect pattern stored in advance in the effect control ROM 901 is determined by lottery, and a liquid crystal control command LCD_CMD corresponding to the lottery result is stored in the memory area in the effect control RAM 902 (step S210).

  At this time, if there is a command indicating a gaming state in the read presentation control command DI_CMD, a liquid crystal control command LCD_CMD for notifying the liquid crystal display device 41 of the gaming state is stored in a memory area in the presentation control RAM 902. Thereby, the liquid crystal control command LCD_CMD stored in the effect control RAM 902 is transmitted to the liquid crystal control board 120 (see FIG. 3) at the time of timer interruption processing shown in FIG. 17 to be described later, and according to the liquid crystal control command LCD_CMD. The contents are displayed on the liquid crystal display device 41. Therefore, at timing T1 shown in FIG. 4A, at timing T10 shown in FIG. 4B, at timing T20 shown in FIG. 4C, at timing T30 shown in FIG. As shown, the current gaming state (see images P1 and P2) is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 41.

  Then, the displayed game state displays a low probability state whether or not a special game state advantageous to the player is given, that is, a state having the same probability as the normal game state (FIG. 5 ( When the display is finished (turned off) by the method shown in FIG. 4A) (see image P1 shown in a)), a liquid crystal control command LCD_CMD for informing the current gaming state is generated, and then the production control command DI_CMD is generated. Counts how many times a command to stop the fluctuation of the special symbol is received, and when it reaches a predetermined number of times (for example, 5 times), the liquid crystal control command LCD_CMD that terminates (erases) the display is displayed in the effect control RAM 902 Store in memory area. Thereby, the liquid crystal control command LCD_CMD stored in the effect control RAM 902 is transmitted to the liquid crystal control board 120 (see FIG. 3) at the time of the timer interruption process shown in FIG. 17 described later, and the timing shown in FIG. At T2, the current gaming state (see image P1 shown in FIG. 5A) displayed on the liquid crystal display device 41 ends (disappears). Note that, as described above, the display end method (how to turn off) may be controlled so as to disappear suddenly, or may be controlled to disappear while blinking, and any method may be used.

  On the other hand, the displayed game state displays a low probability state whether or not a special game state advantageous to the player is given, that is, a state having the same probability as the normal game state (FIG. 5 ( When the display is ended (turned off) by the method shown in FIG. 4B) (see image P1 shown in a)), a liquid crystal control command LCD_CMD for informing the current gaming state is generated, and in this step S210 The timer TIMER is managed, and when the timer TIMER reaches a predetermined value, a liquid crystal control command LCD_CMD for terminating (erasing) the display is stored in the memory area in the effect control RAM 902. As a result, the liquid crystal control command LCD_CMD stored in the effect control RAM 902 is transmitted to the liquid crystal control board 120 (see FIG. 3) during the timer interruption process shown in FIG. 17 described later, and the timing shown in FIG. 4B. At T11, the current gaming state (see image P1 shown in FIG. 5A) displayed on the liquid crystal display device 41 ends (disappears).

  On the other hand, the displayed game state displays a low probability state whether or not a special game state advantageous to the player is given, that is, a state having the same probability as the normal game state (FIG. 5). When the display is ended (turned off) by the method shown in FIG. 4C) (see image P1 shown in FIG. 4A), a liquid crystal control command LCD_CMD for informing the current gaming state is generated, and then the read-out effect When the control command DI_CMD is a customer waiting demo command, the liquid crystal control command LCD_CMD for ending (erase) the display is stored in the memory area in the effect control RAM 902. As a result, the liquid crystal control command LCD_CMD stored in the effect control RAM 902 is transmitted to the liquid crystal control board 120 (see FIG. 3) during the timer interruption process shown in FIG. 17 described later, and the timing shown in FIG. At T21, the current gaming state (see image P1 shown in FIG. 5A) displayed on the liquid crystal display device 41 ends (disappears).

  Furthermore, when the read production control command DI_CMD is a customer waiting demo command, a switch (not shown) that can be operated by a game hall employee provided on the back of the pachinko gaming machine 1 (see FIG. 1). ) Is confirmed (the set content is received in the timer interrupt process shown in FIG. 17 described later), and if the adjusted content is set to the power saving mode, the display is terminated (turned off). The command LCD_CMD is stored in the memory area in the effect control RAM 902. As a result, the liquid crystal control command LCD_CMD stored in the effect control RAM 902 is transmitted to the liquid crystal control board 120 (see FIG. 3) during the timer interruption process shown in FIG. 17 described later, and the timing shown in FIG. At T21, the current gaming state (see image P1 shown in FIG. 5A) displayed on the liquid crystal display device 41 ends (disappears).

  On the other hand, a state in which the probability of whether or not the displayed gaming state gives a special gaming state advantageous to the player is a low probability state, that is, a state having the same probability as the normal gaming state is displayed (FIG. 5 ( When the display is ended (turned off) by the method shown in FIG. 4D), the liquid crystal control command LCD_CMD for informing the current gaming state is generated, and then, FIG. The content of pressing the setting button 15 received during the timer interrupt processing shown is confirmed. For example, if the enter key 15a is pressed, the liquid crystal control command LCD_CMD that ends (erases) the display is displayed in the memory in the effect control RAM 902. Store in the area. Thereby, the liquid crystal control command LCD_CMD stored in the effect control RAM 902 is transmitted to the liquid crystal control board 120 (see FIG. 3) at the time of the timer interrupt process shown in FIG. 17 described later, and the timing shown in FIG. At T31, the current gaming state (see image P1 shown in FIG. 5A) displayed on the liquid crystal display device 41 ends (disappears).

  As described above, when the gaming state is a high-probability state such as a latent probability changing state (see image P2 shown in FIG. 5B), it is a method as shown in FIGS. It is preferable to continue displaying without ending (not erasing) the display. When the gaming state is a high probability state such as a latent probability changing state, this information is the information that the player wants to know most, so if the display is terminated when the predetermined condition is satisfied, the low probability state is obtained. This is because the player may be misunderstood as to whether it has become, and there is a possibility that the interest of the game will be reduced.

  Thus, after the process of step S210 is completed, the effect control CPU 900 determines the sound such as BGM or sound effect corresponding to the determined effect pattern, and the operation content of the motor that operates the movable accessory (not shown). And the operation content of the solenoid is determined. Then, it is also determined whether or not there is an effect in the determined effect pattern that causes the player to press the effect button device 13 (see FIG. 1) (step S211).

  Next, the effect control CPU 900 transmits a control signal related to the determined sound to the sound LSI 903. Then, the sound LSI 903 reads BGM or sound effect according to the control signal from the sound ROM 904. Thereby, the sound LSI 903 performs a process based on the read sound data, and performs a process of outputting to the speaker 17 as sound source data (step S212).

  Next, the effect control CPU 900 generates solenoid data corresponding to the solenoid operation content determined in step S211, and stores the generated solenoid data in the effect control RAM 902 (step S213).

  Next, the effect control CPU 900 accesses the sound LSI 903 and confirms whether or not any error has occurred due to noise or the like when the sound LSI 903 decodes the sound data or the like with respect to the process of step S212 (step S214). ).

  Thus, after finishing the process of step S214, the effect control CPU 900 returns to the process of step S207 again and repeats the processes of steps S207 to S214.

<Production control board: Explanation of command reception interrupt processing>
Next, with reference to FIG. 16, a process when an effect control command DI_CMD and an interrupt signal are transmitted from the main control board 60 (main control CPU 600) during execution of such an effect control main process will be described. .

  As shown in FIG. 16, when the effect control CPU 900 receives the interrupt signal, the effect control CPU 900 executes a save process for saving the contents of each register to the stack area in the effect control RAM 902 (step S220). Thereafter, the effect control CPU 900 reads the register of the input port that has received the effect control command DI_CMD (step S221), and calculates a pointer indicating the address address of the command transmission / reception memory area in the effect control RAM 902 (step S222).

  Then, the effect control CPU 900 reads the input port register that has received the effect control command DI_CMD again (step S223), and whether or not the value read in step S221 matches the value read in step S223. Is confirmed (step S224). If they do not match (step S224: NO), the process proceeds to step S227, and if they match (step S224: YES), the main control board 60 (main control CPU 600) moves to the address address corresponding to the calculated pointer. The received effect control command DI_CMD is stored (step S225). The stored production control command DI_CMD is read out by the production control CPU 900 during the process of step S210 shown in FIG.

  Next, the effect control CPU 900 updates the pointer indicating the address address of the command transmission / reception memory area in the effect control RAM 902 (step S226), and restores the register saved in the process of step S220 (step S227). Thereby, the process returns to the effect control main process shown in FIG.

<Production control board: Explanation of timer interrupt processing>
Next, with reference to FIG. 17, a process when a timer interrupt occurs every 1 ms set in the process of step S206 (see FIG. 15) of the effect control main process will be described.

  As shown in FIG. 17, when the timer interrupt occurs every 1 ms, the effect control CPU 900 executes a save process for saving the contents of each register to the stack area in the effect control RAM 902 (step S230). After that, the effect control CPU 900 refreshes the input / output port registers provided in the effect control CPU 900 (step S231).

  Subsequently, the effect control CPU 900 transmits the solenoid data stored in the memory area in the effect control RAM 902 processed in step S213 shown in FIG. 15 by serial transfer from the output port. As a result, a movable accessory or the like (not shown) operates. Furthermore, the effect control CPU 900 transmits the motor data stored in the memory area in the effect control RAM 902 by serial transfer from the output port. As a result, a movable accessory not shown performs an operation based on the motor data (step S232).

  Next, the effect control CPU 900 receives signals from the effect button device 13 and the setting button 15 (step S233). When the effect button device 13 has been pressed by the player, the effect control CPU 900 determines an effect pattern that takes into account that the effect button device 13 has been pressed when performing the process of step S211 shown in FIG. It will be. Further, as described above, the received content of the setting button 15 is used in step S210 shown in FIG. Then, in step S233, the effect control CPU 900 receives the adjustment content of a switch (not shown) that can be operated by the employee of the game hall provided on the back surface of the pachinko gaming machine 1 (see FIG. 1). Can do. In step S210, the received content is used as a flag indicating whether or not the power saving mode is set.

  Next, the effect control CPU 900 confirms the position of the motor based on detection data transmitted from a motor sensor that detects the position of a motor (not shown) of a movable accessory (not shown) (step S234).

  Next, the effect control CPU 900 transmits the liquid crystal control command LCD_CMD stored in the memory area in the effect control RAM 902 in the process of step S210 shown in FIG. 15 to the liquid crystal control board 120 (see FIG. 3) (step S235). As a result, the contents corresponding to the liquid crystal control command LCD_CMD, that is, the contents as shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 are displayed on the liquid crystal display device 41.

  Next, the production control CPU 900 generates motor data corresponding to the operation content of the motor that operates the movable accessory determined in step S211 shown in FIG. 15 based on the position of the motor confirmed in step S234. Thus, it is stored in the memory area in the effect control RAM 902 (step S236). The motor data stored in the memory area in the effect control RAM 902 is transmitted by serial transfer from the output port in the process of step S232 at the next timer interruption of 1 ms.

  Next, the effect control CPU 900 turns on or off the decorative lamps such as LED lamps mounted on the decorative lamp substrate 100 (see FIG. 3) stored in the effect control RAM 902 in the process of step S209 shown in FIG. A control signal necessary for the above is transmitted to the decorative lamp substrate 100 (step S237). As a result, decorative lamps such as LED lamps are turned on or off, and a desired lamp effect is performed.

  Next, the effect control CPU 900 increments (+1) the main loop counter ML_CNT that counts in a loop from 0 to 31 used in the process of step S207 shown in FIG. 15, and divides the incremented value by 16 (that is, 16 (Division by) is performed (step S238). Then, the effect control CPU 900 restores the register saved in the process of step S230 (step S239). Thereby, the process returns to the effect control main process shown in FIG.

  Thus, according to the present embodiment described above, it is possible to allow the player to accurately recognize the current gaming state and to reduce the hindrance to the production.

  In the present embodiment, an example in which the effect control board 90 and the liquid crystal control board 120 are provided separately has been described.

1 Pachinko machine 13 Production button device (first operation means)
15 Setting button (second operating means)
41 Liquid crystal display device (game state notification means, symbol variation display means, effect display means)

Claims (5)

Gaming state notifying means for notifying a predetermined gaming state;
A symbol variation display means for displaying a variation of the symbol when a predetermined condition is satisfied;
When the symbol variation display means performs the symbol variation display a predetermined number of times, the game state notification end means terminates the notification of the predetermined gaming state notified by the gaming state notification means. This is a gaming machine. Gaming state notifying means for notifying a predetermined gaming state;
A symbol variation display means for displaying a variation of the symbol when a predetermined condition is satisfied;
Regardless of the number of display variations of the symbol displayed by the symbol variation display means, a gaming state notification that terminates the notification of the predetermined gaming state that has been notified by the gaming state notification means when a predetermined time has elapsed. And a ending means. Gaming state notifying means for notifying a predetermined gaming state;
A symbol variation display means for displaying a variation of the symbol when a predetermined condition is satisfied;
Regardless of the number of display variations of the symbol displayed by the symbol variation display means, the notification of the predetermined gaming state notified by the gaming state notification means when the gaming state shifts to a customer waiting state. A gaming machine comprising gaming state notification ending means for ending. Gaming state notifying means for notifying a predetermined gaming state;
A symbol variation display means for displaying a variation of the symbol when a predetermined condition is satisfied;
Effect display means for displaying effect contents related to the change of the symbol displayed by the symbol fluctuation display means;
When the content of the effect is displayed by the effect display means, a first operation means capable of performing an operation according to the content of the effect;
A second operating means capable of various settings;
Regardless of the number of times of display of the symbol displayed by the symbol variation display means, when the predetermined operation is executed by the second operation means, the predetermined state notified by the gaming state notification means A gaming machine having gaming state notification ending means for ending notification of gaming state. The gaming state notification ending means is configured to notify the gaming state when the predetermined gaming state is a high probability state in which a probability of whether or not to give a special gaming state advantageous to a player is higher than a normal probability. The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the notification is continued without ending the notification of the predetermined gaming state notified by the means.

Images