JP2016202561A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To substantially stock a right of next and subsequent special games during variation of a special game and vary the number of stocks.SOLUTION: A variable winning device (a normal electric generator) picks up only one game ball. A second special symbol lottery falls under a special winning (a small win) or a special winning (a jackpot). The small win is connected to the jackpot, so that the second special symbol lottery is substantially surely connected to a jackpot game. Consequently, "one memory (reservation) of a second special symbol is equal to a stock of one jackpot". When a time (5 seconds or 10 seconds) shorter than a variation time (20 seconds) of special symbols is selected as a variation time of normal symbols in a time-shortened state, before terminating the variation of the special symbols, a memory of the second special symbol can be stocked. This configuration allows a player to substantially stock the right of the next and subsequent special games during the special symbol variation and freely vary the number of stocks. This configuration can thus exert a game property with novel sensibility.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 44

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine that, when a lottery opportunity occurs during a game, displays a symbol in a manner that displays a result of a lottery after a symbol change display.

  Conventionally, as this type of gaming machine, it is a so-called type 1 type 2 mixing machine, which is given a short time (number of special-purpose games = 5) after the end of the 1 type big hit, There is known a gaming machine in which, when elected, the electric chew is opened and two kinds of big hits are made by passing through a specific area (V hole) (for example, Patent Document 1).

  Also, as another prior art, the attacker's opening time is set longer while increasing the small hit probability at the second special symbol compared to the small hit probability at the first special symbol and the attacker's opening time at the small hit. However, a gaming machine that raises the base by generating small hits frequently in a short time is disclosed (for example, Patent Document 2).

JP 2007-97696 A JP 2010-88789 A

The above-described prior art is a technique that improves gameability by combining big hits and small hits.
However, such big hits and small hits are determined based on the result of each special symbol lottery and cannot be made.

Here, there is also a so-called limiter machine, but for example, if the number of limiters is 3 times, 3 big hits will be promised, including the first one. Every time, only a fixed number of times (3 times) will continue to be a big hit, so it will be interesting.
In the first place, the limiter machine cannot stock the right of the next jackpot while the special symbol changes before the jackpot is started.

  Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a technique capable of substantially stocking the right of special games for the next and subsequent times during changes in special symbols, and changing the number of stocks.

The present invention employs the following means for solving the above problems. In addition, the wording in the following brackets is an illustration to the last, and this invention is not limited to this.
Solution 1: The gaming machine according to the present invention includes a first special symbol lottery executing means for executing a first special symbol lottery when a first special symbol lottery trigger occurs during a game relating to a game ball flow, and When a second special symbol lottery opportunity occurs during a game related to the flow down, a second special symbol lottery execution means for executing a second special symbol lottery and the first special symbol lottery is executed, First special symbol display means for stopping and displaying the first special symbol after the first special symbol is variably displayed over the variation time and in a manner corresponding to the result of the first special symbol lottery, and the second special symbol lottery Second special symbol display in which the second special symbol is stopped and displayed in a manner corresponding to the result of the second special symbol lottery after the second special symbol is variably displayed over a predetermined variation time based on the execution Means and the first A first lottery element storage means for storing a first lottery element for use in the first special symbol lottery when the first special symbol lottery trigger occurs before the start condition of another symbol is satisfied; A second lottery element storage means for storing a second lottery element for use in the second special symbol lottery when the second special symbol lottery trigger occurs before the start condition of the special symbol is satisfied; When the special symbol or the second special symbol is stopped and displayed in the winning mode corresponding to the special winning type, the first variable winning device that opens the first big winning opening and executes the special game, and the first special symbol Alternatively, when the second special symbol is stopped and displayed in a winning manner corresponding to a special winning type, a second variable winning device that opens a second large winning opening and executes a special game different from the special game, Inside the second variable winning device Thus, a specific area that is arranged downstream of the second grand prize opening and through which at least one of the game balls that have entered the second grand prize opening passes, and a game ball is being played during the execution of the special game. Special game via special game execution means for executing the special game when passing the specific area, and a second special that substantially restricts the result of the second special symbol lottery to the special winning type or the special winning type Normal symbol lottery execution means that executes a normal symbol lottery when a normal symbol lottery trigger occurs during a game, and the normal symbol lottery is executed. Normal symbol display means for stopping and displaying the normal symbol in a manner corresponding to the result of the normal symbol lottery after the symbol is variably displayed; and when the normal symbol is stopped and displayed in a predetermined winning manner, the first symbol (2) A variable start winning device that opens a start winning opening for generating a special symbol lottery opportunity and closes the starting winning opening due to one occurrence of the second special symbol lottery trigger, and a predetermined transition condition is satisfied The time shortening state transition means for shifting from the non-time shortening state where the second special symbol lottery trigger occurs at a normal frequency to the time shortening state where the second special symbol lottery trigger occurs at a frequency higher than the normal frequency. And a time shortening state special symbol winning time varying time defining means defining a certain variation time as a variation time at the time of winning the second special symbol in the time shortening state, and the time shortening state in the time shortening state Normal symbol variation time is defined as at least two types of variation times, a short time shorter than the certain variation time and a long time longer than the certain variation time. A gaming machine and a time defining means.

In the gaming machine of this solution, the game proceeds along the following flow.
(1) The first special symbol lottery is performed when a first special symbol lottery opportunity occurs during a game related to the flow of the game ball (a game ball enters the middle start winning opening). Here, the game relating to the flow of the game ball refers to a game based on an operation of causing the player to launch the game ball into a game area partitioned into a predetermined range. Note that when the first special symbol lottery occurs, the first special symbol lottery may be executed immediately. However, the first special symbol lottery may not be executed immediately (for example, during special games or during symbol changes). is there. The same applies to other lottery opportunities.

(2) When a second special symbol lottery occurs during a game relating to the flow of game balls (a game ball enters a right start winning opening), a second special symbol lottery is performed.

(3) Based on the fact that the first special symbol lottery of (1) above is executed, the first special symbol is variably displayed over a predetermined fluctuation time, and the first special symbol lottery is selected according to the result of the first special symbol lottery. The special symbol is stopped and displayed. It takes a certain amount of time (fluctuation time and stop display time) from the start of the variable display of the first special symbol until the stop display is performed, and once the variable display of the first special symbol is started The determination of the next lottery is suspended until the stop display is completed. Here, the lottery (random number acquisition) trigger and the symbol variation trigger are distinguished. For example, during a special game, a random number obtained even when a lottery trigger occurs is stored, and the first special symbol is displayed in a variable manner when a start condition that allows the symbol to change is satisfied. The same applies to the following second special symbols.

(4) Based on the execution of the second special symbol lottery in (2) above, the second special symbol is variably displayed over a predetermined fluctuation time, and the second special symbol lottery is displayed in a manner corresponding to the result of the second special symbol lottery. The special symbol is stopped and displayed.

(5) If the first special symbol lottery opportunity occurs before the start condition of the first special symbol (the condition that the special game is not changing or not) is satisfied, the first special symbol lottery opportunity is obtained A first lottery element (a big hit lottery random number) for use in one special symbol lottery is stored.

(6) If the second special symbol lottery trigger occurs before the start condition of the second special symbol (the condition that the special game is not being changed or is not changing), the second special symbol lottery trigger is acquired. 2 A second lottery element (a jackpot lottery random number) for use in the special symbol lottery is stored.

(7) If the first special symbol of (3) above or the second special symbol of (4) above is stopped and displayed in a winning manner corresponding to the special winning type (big win symbol), the first big prize opening is opened. And a first variable winning device for executing a special game (big hit game).

(8) When the first special symbol of (3) above or the second special symbol of (4) above is stopped and displayed in a winning manner corresponding to the special winning type (small winning symbol), the second big prize opening is opened. Thus, a second variable winning device for executing a special game different from the special game of (7) is provided.

(9) Inside the second variable winning device of (8) above, disposed at the downstream of the second grand prize opening, and at least one game ball among the game balls that have entered the second big prize opening passes. A specific area is provided. For this reason, when even one game ball enters the second variable winning device of (8) above, the game ball passes through the specific area. The specific area may be an area through which only one game ball passes among the game balls that have entered the second grand prize opening.

(10) If the game ball passes through the specific area (9) during execution of the special game, the special game is executed.

(11) The result of the second special symbol lottery in (2) above is limited to the special winning type or the special winning type. For example, the small hit probability is about 1/221 (221/222), and the big hit probability is 1/222. Note that not only a complete small win or a big win, but also a slight win (with a probability of several percent) may be included.

(13) When a normal symbol lottery trigger occurs during the game (when the game ball passes the start gate), the normal symbol lottery is executed.
(14) Based on the fact that the normal symbol lottery of (13) is executed, the normal symbol is variably displayed over a predetermined fluctuation time, and the normal symbol is stopped and displayed in a manner corresponding to the result of the normal symbol lottery. It takes a certain amount of time (variation time and stop display time) until the stop display is performed after the normal symbol change display is started. Once the normal symbol change display is started, the stop display is performed. The determination of the next lottery is put on hold until is completed.

(15) When the normal symbol of (14) is stopped and displayed in a predetermined winning manner, the start winning opening (right start winning port) that generates the second special symbol lottery opportunity is opened, and one second special A variable start winning device (ordinary electric accessory) is provided that closes the start winning opening when a symbol lottery occurs. For this reason, the variable start winning device is a device that picks up only one game ball in principle.

(16) When a predetermined transition condition is satisfied (for example, when winning with a symbol with a time reduction), the frequency is higher than the normal frequency from the non-time shortened state in which the second special symbol lottery occurs at a normal frequency. The time is shifted to a state where the second special symbol lottery trigger occurs.

(17) A fixed variation time (20 seconds) is defined as the variation time at the time of winning the first special symbol or the second special symbol (at the time of big hit or small hit) in the time shortened state of (16) above. Yes. There may be a plurality of types of fixed fluctuation times.

(18) The fluctuation time of the normal symbol in the time shortened state of (16) above is a short time (5 seconds or 10 seconds) shorter than the constant fluctuation time of (17) and the constant fluctuation of (17) above. At least two types of fluctuation time are defined, which is a long time (30 seconds) longer than the time.

In this way, in the present solution means, winning is made in the first special symbol lottery, and when the predetermined transition condition is satisfied, the state is shifted to the time reduction state. In the time shortening state, the game is progressed mainly by the second special symbol lottery.
However, since the variable start winning device picks up only one game ball, the second special symbol lottery is basically executed only once. And in the 2nd special symbol lottery, it corresponds to special winning or special winning substantially.

  And if even one game ball can enter the second grand prize opening during the opening of the second big prize opening, the game ball will pass through a specific area, so the special prize will lead to the special prize, As a result, the second special symbol lottery is practically always connected to the special game (big hit game).

  Thereby, in this solution means, as long as the second special symbol lottery is executed, the special game is executed. That is, not only “one change of the second special symbol = one big hit” but also “one storage (holding) of the second special symbol = one big hit stock”.

  In this situation, how many memories of the second special symbol can be stored while the special symbol fluctuates in a certain fluctuation time (how many substantial jackpots can be stocked) It becomes game characteristics.

Then, when a short time shorter than a certain fluctuation time is selected as the fluctuation time of the normal symbol in the time shortening state, the second special symbol can be stored before the special symbol fluctuation ends. Opportunities are available.
On the other hand, when a long time longer than a certain variation time is selected as the variation time of the normal symbol in the time shortening state, the second special symbol can be stored before the variation of the special symbol is completed. There is no opportunity to do it.

  For this reason, depending on the fluctuation time of the selected normal symbol (that is, depending on the player's pull), the right of special games after the next time can be substantially stocked while the special symbol is changing. Can be freely changed, and a new sense of playability can be demonstrated.

  Solution 2: The gaming machine of the present solution is the solution 1, wherein the time shortening state transition means is configured such that the second special symbol may change at least once in the time shortening state. (For example, until the special symbol fluctuates five times (up to the number of time reductions = up to five times)), the gaming machine is characterized by shifting to the time reduction state.

  According to Solution 2, since the second special symbol lottery can be received at least once in a time-reduced state, the one time can be connected to the special game. Thereby, it can be avoided that the time shortening state ends without receiving the second special symbol lottery even once in the time shortening state.

  Solution 3: The gaming machine of the present solution determines the fluctuation time of the normal symbol when the normal symbol lottery trigger occurs before the normal symbol start condition is satisfied in Solution 1 or 2. When the variation time determination element is newly stored, the variation time of the normal symbol is determined in advance using the new variation time determination element. Fluctuation at the time of winning of the first special symbol or the second special symbol in the time-reduced state when the prior determination result by the variable time destination determination unit and the variable time destination determination unit satisfy a special condition The game machine is characterized by comprising a pre-decision effect executing means for executing a pre-decision effect based on the prior determination result.

  According to the solving means 3, during the variation at the time of winning the special symbol, the variation time of the normal symbol may be suggested by the prior determination (prefetching) by the prior determination effect. For this reason, the player can know important scenes in advance, and can enter an important situation with peace of mind. Thereby, it can avoid missing the opportunity of a 2nd special symbol lottery.

  Solution 4: The gaming machine of the present solution is used in the normal symbol lottery when the normal symbol lottery trigger occurs before the normal symbol start condition is satisfied in any of the solution means 1 to 3. The normal symbol lottery element storage means for storing the normal symbol lottery element of the normal symbol lottery element is provided, and the fluctuation time of the normal symbol in the non-time shortened state is stopped and displayed in a winning manner in which the first special symbol corresponds to the special winning type A normal symbol lottery trigger generation promotion that executes a normal symbol lottery trigger generation promotion effect prompting to generate the normal symbol lottery trigger at the end time, which is equal to or less than the end time of the special game executed when It is a gaming machine characterized by comprising production execution means.

  According to Solution 4, the variation time of the normal symbol in the non-time shortened state is a time equal to or shorter than the end time of the special game based on the first special symbol winning. For this reason, it is possible to avoid as much as possible the situation that the normal symbol is changing at the end of the special game. Therefore, the normal symbol can be changed from the beginning of the time reduction state.

  In addition, by executing the normal symbol lottery opportunity generation promotion effect at the end time, it is possible to prevent the normal symbol from starting to change during the end time of the special game.

  Solution 5: The gaming machine of the present solution is any one of the solutions 1 to 4, wherein the variable start winning device is arranged downstream of the second variable winning device, and the second variable winning device is The gaming machine is characterized in that when the second grand prize opening is opened, the game ball does not reach the variable start winning device by entering the second variable winning device.

  According to the solution 5, the variable start winning device is arranged downstream of the second variable winning device, and when the second variable winning device opens the second big winning opening, the game ball is 2 Since the variable start winning device is not reached by entering the variable winning device, even if the variable start winning device is shifted to the open state during the execution of the special game or the special game, the second The game ball can be stopped by the variable winning device, and the situation where the game ball is inadvertently entered the second variable start winning device can be avoided.

  According to the gaming machine of the present invention, it is possible to substantially stock the right of the special game after the next while the special symbol is changed, and the stock number can be changed.

It is a front view of a pachinko machine. It is a rear view of a pachinko machine. It is a front view which shows a game board unit independently. It is a figure which shows the detail of the 2nd variable prize-winning apparatus 31. FIG. It is a figure which shows the detail of the 2nd variable prize-winning apparatus 31. FIG. It is a front view which expands and shows a part of game board unit. It is a block diagram which shows the various electronic devices with which the pachinko machine was equipped. It is a flowchart (1/2) which shows the example of a procedure of a reset start process. It is a flowchart (2/2) which shows the example of a procedure of a reset start process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a power-off occurrence check process concretely. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of an interruption management process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a switch input event process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a 1st special symbol memory update process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a 2nd special symbol memory update process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a normal symbol memory update process. It is a flowchart which shows the structural example of a special symbol game process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of the special symbol change pre-processing. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a special symbol memory | storage area shift process. It is a figure which shows the structure row | line | column of the 1st special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table. It is a figure which shows the structure column of the 2nd special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table. It is a figure which shows an example of the stop symbol selection table at the time of the 2nd special symbol small hit. It is a figure which shows the correspondence table of the change time of the special symbol in a non-time shortening state. It is a figure which shows the correspondence table of the change time of the special symbol in a time shortening state. It is a figure which shows the conversion table of the change time of the normal symbol according to a state. It is a figure which shows the details, such as the change time at the time of winning of a normal symbol. It is a figure which shows the detail of the open | release pattern of a variable start prize-winning apparatus. It is a figure which shows the detail of the variation time of the special symbol at the time of winning in a time shortening state. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of the special symbol stop display process. It is a flowchart which shows the structural example of a display output management process. It is a flowchart which shows the structural example of a variable winning apparatus management process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a big winning opening opening pattern setting process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a big winning opening big opening opening pattern setting process. It is a figure which shows an example of the open pattern setting table according to symbol pattern at the time of big hit. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of the big winning opening opening pattern setting process at the time of a small hit. It is a figure which shows an example of the opening pattern setting table at the time of a small hit. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a big prize opening / closing operation | movement process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a 2nd big winning opening opening / closing operation | movement process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a specific area | region opening / closing operation | movement process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of the process at the time of specific area passage. It is a figure which shows an example of the open pattern setting table according to symbols at the time of specific area passage. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a 1st big winning opening opening / closing operation | movement process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a big winning opening closing process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of an end process. It is a figure which shows the timing chart which shows the characteristic expansion | deployment which generate | occur | produces in the pachinko machine. It is a continuation figure showing an example of a production picture corresponding to change display and stop display of a special symbol. It is a continuation figure showing the flow of reach production performed at the time of big hit (winning). It is a continuation figure which shows in part an example of the big role production performed during the big hit game at the time of winning by internal lottery concerning the 1st special symbol (1/4). It is a continuation figure which shows in part an example of the big role production performed during the big hit game when winning by the internal lottery concerning the first special symbol (2/4). It is a continuation figure which shows partially an example of a big part production performed during a big hit game when winning by an internal lottery concerning the 1st special symbol (3/4). It is a continuation figure which shows in part an example of the big role production performed during the big hit game when winning by the internal lottery concerning the first special symbol (4/4). It is a continuation figure showing the example of the 1st production performed during a time shortening state (1/6). It is a continuation figure showing the example of the 1st production performed during a time shortening state (2/6). It is a continuation figure showing the example of the 1st production performed during a time shortening state (3/6). It is a continuation figure showing the example of the 1st production performed during a time shortening state (4/6). It is a continuation figure showing the example of the 1st production performed during a time shortening state (5/6). It is a continuation figure showing the example of the 1st production performed during a time shortening state (6/6). It is a continuation figure showing the example of the 2nd production performed during a time shortening state (1/2). It is a continuation figure showing the example of the 2nd production performed during a time shortening state (2/2). It is a continuation figure which shows the example of an effect at the time of the 2nd special symbol changing during a normal game (1/2). It is a continuation figure which shows the example of an effect at the time of the 2nd special symbol changing during a normal game (2/2). It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of effect control processing. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of an operation | movement memory production | presentation management process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of effect design management processing. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of an effect design change pre-process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a process at the time of a variable winning apparatus operation. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a normal symbol related effect management process.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 1 is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine (hereinafter abbreviated as “pachinko machine”) 1. FIG. 2 is a rear view of the pachinko machine 1. The pachinko machine 1 uses a game ball as a game medium, and a player borrows a game ball from a game hall operator to play a game with the pachinko machine 1. In the game of the pachinko machine 1, each of the game balls is a medium having a game value, and a privilege (benefits) enjoyed by the player as a result of the game is, for example, a game acquired by the player. The game value can be converted based on the number of balls. The overall configuration of the gaming machine will be described below with reference to FIGS.

[Overall configuration of gaming machine]
The pachinko machine 1 mainly includes an outer frame unit 2, an integrated door unit 4, and an inner frame assembly 7 (a plastic frame, a gaming machine frame) as its main body. The integrated door unit 4 is located on the foremost side when viewed from the front facing the player. An inner frame assembly 7 is located on the back side (back side) of the integrated door unit 4, and the outer frame unit 2 is disposed so as to surround the outer side of the inner frame assembly 7.

  The outer frame unit 2 is a structure in which wood and metal materials are combined in a vertically long rectangular shape. The outer frame unit 2 has a fastener such as a screw attached to an island facility (not shown) in the game hall. It is used and fixed. In the vertically long rectangular outer frame unit 2, wood is used for a portion corresponding to the upper and lower short sides, and a metal material is used for a portion corresponding to the left and right long sides.

  The integrated door unit 4 has a structure in which the tray unit 6 is integrated at a lower position thereof. The integrated door unit 4 and the inner frame assembly 7 are attached to the island facility via the outer frame unit 2, and these operate in an openable manner via a hinge mechanism (not shown). An opening / closing axis of a hinge mechanism (not shown) extends in the vertical direction along the left end as viewed from the front of the pachinko machine 1.

  A unified lock unit 9 is provided on the inner side of the right edge (the left edge in FIG. 2) of the inner frame assembly 7 when viewed from the front in FIG. Correspondingly, a locking tool (not shown) is also provided on the right side edge (back side) of the integrated door unit 4 and the outer frame unit 2. As shown in FIG. 1, in the state where the integrated door unit 4 and the inner frame assembly 7 are closed with respect to the outer frame unit 2, the unified lock unit 9 on the back side of the integrated door unit 4 and the inner frame assembly together with the locking device. 7 cannot be opened.

  A cylinder lock 6 a with a key hole is provided on the right edge of the tray unit 6. For example, when an administrator of the game hall inserts a dedicated key into the keyhole and twists the cylinder lock 6a clockwise, the unified lock unit 9 operates and the integrated door unit 4 can be opened together with the inner frame assembly 7. . If these are opened from the outer frame unit 2 to the front side (moved like a door), the back side of the pachinko machine 1 is exposed on the front side.

  On the other hand, when the cylinder lock 6a is twisted counterclockwise, only the locking of the integrated door unit 4 is released while the inner frame assembly 7 remains locked, and the integrated door unit 4 can be opened. When the integrated door unit 4 is opened to the front side, the game board unit 8 is directly exposed, and in this state, the manager of the game hall can remove obstacles such as ball clogging in the board surface. Further, when the integrated door unit 4 is opened, the tray unit 6 is also opened to the front side together.

  The pachinko machine 1 includes the game board unit 8 described above as a game unit. The game board unit 8 is supported by the inner frame assembly 7 behind (inside) the integrated door unit 4. The game board unit 8 can be attached to and detached from the inner frame assembly 7 with the integrated door unit 4 opened to the front side, for example. The integrated door unit 4 is formed with a vertically oval window 4a at the center thereof, and a glass unit (no reference numeral) is attached in the window 4a. The glass unit is a combination of, for example, two transparent plates (glass plates) cut in accordance with the shape of the window 4a. The glass unit is attached to the back side of the integrated door unit 4 via a fixture (not shown). A game area 8a (board surface) is formed on the front surface of the game board unit 8, and this game area 8a is visible to the player from the front side through the window 4a. When the integrated door unit 4 is closed, a space in which a game ball can flow down is formed between the inner surface of the glass unit and the board surface.

  The saucer unit 6 has a shape protruding from the integrated door unit 4 to the front side as a whole, and an upper plate 6b is formed on the upper surface thereof. The upper plate 6b can store a game ball (rental ball) lent to a player and a game ball (prize ball) acquired by winning a prize. In the tray unit 6, a lower plate 6c is formed at a lower position of the upper plate 6b. The lower tray 6c stores game balls that are further paid out when the upper tray 6b is full. The pachinko machine 1 according to the present embodiment is a so-called CR machine (model connected to the CR unit), and the game balls borrowed by the player are separated from the payout unit 172 on the back side separately from the prize balls. It is paid out to the dish 6b or the lower dish 6c).

  A lending operation unit 14 is provided on the upper surface of the tray unit 6, and a ball lending button 10 and a return button 12 are arranged on the lending operation unit 14. When a player operates the ball lending button 10 with a valuable medium (for example, a magnetic recording medium, a storage IC built-in medium, etc.) inserted in a CR unit (not shown), the number corresponding to a predetermined frequency unit (for example, 5 degrees). (For example, 125) game balls are lent out. For this reason, a frequency display unit (not shown) is arranged on the upper surface of the lending operation unit 14, and the remaining frequency of the valuable medium put in the CR unit is displayed on this frequency display unit. The player can receive the return of the valuable medium with the remaining frequency by operating the return button 12. Although the CR machine is taken as an example in the present embodiment, the pachinko machine 1 may be a cash machine (a model not connected to the CR unit) different from the CR machine.

  Further, on the upper surface of the tray unit 6, an upper dish ball removal button 6d is provided in front of the upper dish 6b in the upper position, and a lower dish ball removal lever 6e is provided in the center of the lower dish 6c. Is installed. The player can cause the game balls stored in the upper plate 6b to flow down to the lower plate 6c by, for example, pressing the upper plate ball removing button 6d. Also, the player can drop the game balls stored in the lower plate 6c downward and discharge them by sliding the lower plate ball removal lever 6e to the left, for example. The discharged game ball is received by, for example, a ball receiving box (not shown).

  A handle unit 16 is installed on the lower right side of the tray unit 6. The player operates the handle unit 16 to operate the launch control board set 174 and can launch (shoot) a game ball toward the game area 8a (ball launcher). The launched game ball rises from the lower edge portion of the game board unit 8 along the left edge portion, is guided by an outer band (not shown), and is thrown into the game area 8a. A large number of obstacle nails, windmills (without reference numerals in the drawing) and the like are arranged in the game area 8a, and the thrown-in game balls flow down in the game area 8a while being guided and guided by the obstacle nails and the windmill. The configuration of the game area 8a (board surface) will be further described later with reference to another drawing.

[Configuration of the front of the frame]
The integrated door unit 4 is provided with a left top lens unit 47 and an upper right illumination unit 49 as components for production. Among these, the left top lens unit 47 incorporates a glass frame top lamp 46 and a left glass frame decoration lamp 48, and the upper right electrical decoration unit 49 incorporates a right glass frame decoration lamp 50. In addition, left and right glass frame decoration lamps 52 are installed in the integrated door unit 4 so as to be connected to the lower part of the left top lens unit 47 and the upper right illumination unit 49, respectively. It extends from the left and right edges of the integrated door unit 4 to the front surface of the tray unit 6. In the integrated door unit 4, the glass frame top lamp 46 and the left and right glass frame decoration lamps 48, 50, 52, and the like are arranged so as to surround the glass unit (no reference symbol).

  The various lamps 46, 48, 50, and 52 described above perform effects by, for example, the light emission of the built-in LEDs (lighting and blinking, change in luminance gradation, change in color tone, and the like). In addition, on the upper part of the integrated door unit 4, speakers on the glass frame 54 and 55 are incorporated in the left top lens unit 47 and the upper right illumination unit 49, respectively. On the other hand, an outer frame speaker 56 is incorporated in the lower left position of the outer frame unit 2. These speakers 54, 55, and 56 output sound effects, BGM, voice, etc. (sound in general) and execute effects.

  In the center of the tray unit 6, an effect switching button 45 (operation input receiving means) is installed at a position in front of the upper tray 6b. The effect switching button 45 has, for example, a combination of a push-type circular button and a rotary jog ring (jog dial) around it. The player switches the content of the effect (for example, the background screen displayed on the liquid crystal display 42) by pushing or rotating the effect switching button 45, or during the change of the symbol, the stoppage display of the big hit, During the big hit game, some kind of effect (notice effect, probability change promotion effect, promotion effect while playing a big role, etc.) can be generated.

[Configuration on the back side]
As shown in FIG. 2, on the back side of the pachinko machine 1, there are a power supply control unit 162, a main control board unit 170, a dispensing device unit 172, a flow path unit 173, a launch control board set 174, and a dispensing control board unit 176. A back cover unit 178 and the like are installed. In addition, on the back side of the pachinko machine 1, various electronic devices (including a control computer not shown) constituting the power supply system and control system of the pachinko machine 1, an external terminal board 160, a power cord (power plug) 164, A ground wire (ground terminal) 166, connection wiring (not shown), and the like are installed. The electronic devices will be further described later based on another block diagram (FIG. 7).

  The payout device unit 172 includes, for example, a prize ball tank 172a and a prize ball case (no reference symbol), and the prize ball tank 172a is installed on the upper edge (back side) of the inner frame assembly 7. In this state, game balls replenished from a replenishment route (not shown) can be stored. The game balls stored in the prize ball tank 172a are guided to a prize ball case through an upper prize ball basket (not shown). The flow path unit 173 guides the game ball sent out from the payout unit 172 toward the tray unit 6 on the front side.

  The external terminal board 160 is used for connecting the pachinko machine 1 to an external electronic device (for example, a data display device, a hall computer, etc.). Various external information signals (for example, award ball information, door opening information, symbol determination number information, jackpot information, start opening information, etc.) indicating the progress state and maintenance state are output to an external electronic device. ing.

  The power cord 164 secures a power source (electric power) necessary for the operation of the pachinko machine 1 by being connected to, for example, a power source device (for example, AC 24V) installed in an island facility of a game arcade. In addition, the ground wire 166 is connected to a ground terminal that is also installed in the island facility, thereby securing the ground (ground) of the pachinko machine 1.

[Configuration of the board]
FIG. 3 is a front view showing the game board unit 8 alone. In the game area 8a, a relatively large effect unit 40 is arranged at the center position, and the game area 8a is largely divided into a left part, a right part and a lower part with the effect unit 40 as the center. Further, in the game area 8a, a middle start winning opening 26, a starting gate 20, a normal winning opening 22, 25, a variable start winning apparatus 28, a first variable winning apparatus 30, and a second variable winning apparatus are provided around the effect unit 40. 31 etc. are distributed and installed. Among these, the middle start winning opening 26 is located in the center of the lower part of the game area 8a. The start gate 20 is located on the upper right side of the game area 8a, and the second variable winning device 31 is located on the right side of the game area 8a and closer to the center thereof. A variable start winning device 28 is located below the second variable winning device 31, and a first variable winning device 30 is located below the second variable winning device 31. The normal winning opening 25 is located on the right side of the second variable winning device 31.

  A downwardly inclined guide plate 21 a is disposed on the right side of the upper portion of the second variable winning device 31, and guides a right-handed game ball to the right end of the second variable winning device 31.

  The game ball thrown into the game area 8a passes through the start gate 20 in the process of flowing down, enters the middle start winning port 26, the normal winning ports 22 and 25 (wins), or releases. Or the first variable prize-winning device 30 or the second variable prize-winning device 31 during the opening operation. Note that the game ball flowing down the left area of the game area 8a may enter (win) the middle start winning opening 26 or the normal winning opening 22. The game balls flowing down the right area of the game area 8a pass through the start gate 20 or enter the variable start winning device 28, the first variable winning device 30, and the second variable winning device 31 during the opening operation (winning). There is a possibility of doing. In addition, there is a possibility that a game ball flowing down the right area of the game area 8a may enter (win) the normal winning opening 25. The game balls that have entered (winned) the game balls (the game board unit 8) are placed in the middle start winning port 26, the normal winning ports 22, 25, the variable start winning device 28, the first variable winning device 30, and the second variable winning device 31. It is collected to the back side of the game board unit 8 through a through hole formed in a plywood material, a transparent plate, and the like.

  Here, in the present embodiment, due to the configuration of the game area 8a (board surface), when a game ball is passed through the start gate 20, the normal winning opening 25, the variable start winning device 28, the first variable winning device 30, and the second variable winning. In order to enter the game ball into the device 31, it is necessary to drive the game ball into the right side area (right hit area) in the game area 8a (perform so-called “right hit”).

  In the present embodiment, the variable start winning device 28 operates when a predetermined operating condition is satisfied (when a normal symbol is stopped and displayed for a predetermined stop display time in a winning manner), and accordingly. It is possible to enter the right start winning opening 28a (ordinary electric accessory). The variable start winning device 28 has, for example, a pair of left and right opening / closing members 28b, and these opening / closing members 28b reciprocate in the left-right direction along the board surface by the action of a link mechanism using a solenoid (not shown), for example. That is, as shown by the solid line in FIG. 3, the left and right opening / closing members 28b are in the closed position with their tips facing upward, and at this time, it is impossible to enter the right start winning opening 28a (the game ball is (There is no gap to enter). On the other hand, when the variable start winning device 28 is operated, the left and right open / close members 28b are displaced (expanded) from the closed position toward the open position, and the right start winning opening 28a is opened by expanding the opening width to the left and right. During this time, the variable start winning device 28 is in a state in which a game ball can enter, and can enter the right start winning port 28a (variable start winning means). At this time, the opening / closing member 28b also functions as a member that guides the entry of the game ball into the right start winning opening 28a. Further, the arrangement of the obstacle nails installed in the game board unit 8 is basically an aspect that does not extremely impede the flow of the game ball toward the variable start winning device 28 (the right start winning port 28a at the time of opening). However, the game ball does not necessarily enter the variable start winning device 28 (right start winning port 28a) at the time of the opening operation, and the balls are randomly generated.

  The first variable winning device 30 operates when a specific operating condition is satisfied (when a special symbol is stopped and displayed in a big win mode), and enters the first big winning opening (no reference sign). Enable the ball (first special electric accessory, special winning event generating means). The first variable winning device 30 has, for example, one opening / closing member 30a. The opening / closing member 30a reciprocates in the front-rear direction with respect to the board surface by the action of a link mechanism using a solenoid (not shown), for example. As shown in the drawing, the opening / closing member 30a is in the closed position (closed state) along the board surface, and at this time, it is impossible to enter the first big prize opening (the first big prize opening is closed). When the first variable winning device 30 is operated, the opening / closing member 30a is displaced so as to fall forward with its lower edge portion as a hinge, thereby opening the first big winning opening (open state). During this time, the first variable winning device 30 is in a state where it is not impossible to enter a game ball, and an event of entering the first big winning opening can be generated. At this time, the opening / closing member 30a also functions as a member that guides the entry of the game ball into the first grand prize opening. Here again, the arrangement of the obstacle nails installed in the game board unit 8 basically does not extremely impede the flow of the game ball toward the first variable prize winning device 30 (the first big prize opening during operation). Although it is an aspect, the game ball does not necessarily enter the first variable winning device 30 during operation, and the ball is generated randomly.

  The second variable winning device 31 operates when a prescribed condition is satisfied (when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in a small hit state), and enables the winning to the second big winning opening 31b (special). Electric accessory, second special prize event generating means).

  The second variable winning device 31 is a device arranged on the right side of the effect unit 40 and has, for example, one opening / closing member 31a. The first variable winning device 30 employs a device in which the opening / closing member 30a is tilted forward. The second variable winning device 31 is a device in which the opening / closing member 31a is slid into the board surface. Adopted (slide type attacker). The opening / closing member 31a reciprocates in the front-rear direction with respect to the board surface by, for example, a link mechanism using a solenoid (not shown). The opening / closing member 31a is in the closed position (closed state) in a state of protruding from the board surface to the player side, and at this time, the game ball rolls on the upper surface of the opening / closing member 31a. Is impossible (the second grand prize winning opening 31b is closed). Then, when the second variable winning device 31 is activated, the opening / closing member 31a is drawn into the board surface, and the second large winning opening 31b is opened (open state). During this time, the second variable winning device 31 is in a state where the inflow of the game ball is not impossible, and can generate an event of entering the second large winning port 31b.

[Specific area]
In addition, a specific area 31x is provided inside the second variable winning device 31 separately from the second large winning opening 31b. The specific area 31x is an area through which a game ball cannot pass when the second variable winning device 31 is in a closed state, and the specific area 31x is a case where the second variable winning device 31 is in an open state, and the specific area slide member 31c is This is an area through which a game ball can pass when it is drawn into the inside of the board. Details of the second variable winning device 31 will be described later.

  Although not specifically shown, the opening / closing member 31a may be provided with a game ball rolling speed lowering portion that lowers the speed at which the game ball rolls. The game ball rolling speed lowering portion is formed by gradual inclination of the opening / closing member 31a or by forming protruding protrusions alternately for advancing the game ball in a zigzag manner at a position where the game ball on the opening / closing member 31a passes. Can be realized. Thereby, many game balls can be made to enter the 2nd variable prize-winning apparatus 31 during a small hit game.

  In addition, an out port 32 is formed in the game area 8 a, and game balls that have not won a prize are finally collected to the back side of the game board unit 8 through the out port 32. In addition, the middle start winning port 26, the normal winning ports 22, 25, the variable start winning device 28 (right start winning port 28a), the first variable winning device 30 (first big winning port), the second variable winning device 31 (first All game balls that have been driven into the game area 8a, including game balls that have entered the two major winning holes, specific areas), are collected to the back side of the game board unit 8. The collected game balls are discharged out of the frame from the back side of the pachinko machine 1 through an out passage assembly (not shown), and further join a supply path of an island facility (not shown).

4 and 5 are diagrams showing details of the second variable winning device 31. FIG.
The second variable prize winning device 31 has a second big prize opening 31b arranged below a sliding type opening / closing member 31a. The inside of the second big prize opening 31b is inclined downward on the left side, and a passage extends downward on the left end side. A second count switch 85 is disposed in the path extending downward, and the second count switch 85 counts the number of game balls that have entered the second variable winning device 31.

The passage extending downward is divided into two routes ahead. One first passage 31e extends downward as it is, and the other second passage 31f branches to the right.
A slide member 31c for a specific area is disposed in the first passage 31e, and a specific area switch 83 is disposed at the tip of the first passage 31e, which is connected to the specific area 31x. The specific area switch 83 may be arranged downstream of the specific area 31x.
On the other hand, no special member is disposed in the second passage 31f and is connected to the discharge hole 31y.

  The specific area slide member 31c operates when a special condition is satisfied (a predetermined time after the second variable winning device 31 operates), and allows the game ball to pass through the specific area 31x. The specific area slide member 31c slides along the front-rear direction of the board surface by the action of a link mechanism using a specific area solenoid (not shown), for example.

  When the specific area solenoid is in an OFF state, the specific area slide member 31c blocks the first passage 31e, so that the game ball in the specific area 31x cannot pass. On the other hand, when the specific area solenoid is in the ON state, the specific area slide member 31c is drawn inside the board surface, thereby allowing the game ball to pass to the specific area 31x.

Next, the operation of the second variable winning device 31 will be described.
As shown in FIG. 4A, the slide-type opening / closing member 31a is drawn into the inside of the board surface, and a game ball enters the second big prize opening 31b. Here, three game balls have entered the second grand prize opening 31b. Here, it is a state immediately before the first game ball is detected by the second count switch 85.

  As shown in FIG. 4B, the first game ball is falling toward the first passage 31e. The second and third game balls are traveling on the bottom surface of the second grand prize opening 31b.

  As shown in FIG. 4C, the first game ball enters the first passage 31e, but is stored by the specific area slide member 31c.

  As shown in FIG. 5D, the second game ball hits the upper part of the first game ball stored by the specific area slide member 31c and proceeds to the second passage 31f. In this case, the second game ball is collected by the discharge hole 31y.

  As shown in FIG. 5E, the third game ball hits the head portion of the first game ball stored by the specific area slide member 31c and proceeds to the second passage 31f. . In this case, the third game ball is collected by the discharge hole 31y.

  As shown in FIG. 5 (F), when the specific area slide member 31c is pulled into the inside of the board surface, the first game ball resumes the progress of the first passage 31e, and the specific area switch 83 is turned on. Pass through the specific area 31x.

FIG. 6 is an enlarged front view showing a part of the game board unit 8 (lower right position in the window 4a).
The game board unit 8 is provided with a normal symbol display device 33 (normal symbol display means) and a normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a at the lower right position in the window 4a, for example, and a first special symbol display device 34 (first 1 special symbol display means), a second special symbol display device 35 (second special symbol display means), a first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a, a second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a, and a game state display device 38 are provided. Yes.

  Among these, the normal symbol display device 33, for example, turns on two lamps (LEDs) alternately to display the normal symbols variably, and stops and displays the normal symbols when the lamps are turned on or off. The normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a displays 0 to 4 memory numbers depending on, for example, a combination of turning off, lighting, or blinking of two lamps (LEDs). For example, in a display mode in which both lamps are extinguished, a memory number of 0 is displayed, in a display mode in which one lamp is lit, a memory number of 1 is displayed, and in a display mode in which the same one lamp is blinked. In the display mode in which two stored numbers are displayed, and in addition to blinking one lamp, the other lamp is lit, three stored numbers are displayed, and in the display mode in which the two lamps are flashed together, the stored number is four. For example, the individual is displayed. Here, although two lamps (LEDs) are used here, the normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a may be configured using four lamps (LEDs). In this case, the number of working memories can be displayed by the number of lamps to be lit.

  The normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a changes to the display mode after being incremented one by one in the sense of memorizing the occurrence of an operation lottery trigger each time a game ball passes through the start gate 20. Then, every time a change of the normal symbol is started with the passage (up to 4) as a trigger, the display mode is changed by one by one. In this embodiment, when the normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a is not lit (the number of memories is 0), the game ball passes through the start gate 20 in a state in which the normal symbol can already start to change (during stop display). However, the display mode does not change. That is, the memorized number (maximum 4) represented by the display mode of the normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a represents the number of passages at which the variation of the normal symbol has not started yet.

  Further, the first special symbol display device 34 and the second special symbol display device 35 can display the variation state and the stop state of the special symbol by, for example, a 7-segment LED (with dots) (symbol display means, first symbol). Symbol display means, second symbol display means). In addition, the special symbol display devices 34 and 35 may have a form in which a plurality of dot LEDs are arranged geometrically (for example, in a circular shape).

  Further, the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a and the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a have 0 to 4 each, for example, depending on a display mode constituted by a combination of extinction or lighting and blinking of two lamps (LEDs). Is stored (memory number display means). For example, in a display mode in which both lamps are turned off, 0 stored number is displayed, in a display mode in which one lamp is turned on, 1 stored number is displayed, and in a display mode in which the same one lamp is blinked. In the display mode in which two stored numbers are displayed, in addition to blinking one lamp, the other lamp is lit, three stored numbers are displayed, and in the display mode in which the two lamps are flashed together, the stored number is stored. For example, four are displayed.

  The first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a changes to the display mode after being incremented one by one in the sense of memorizing that every time a game ball enters the middle start winning opening 26. Every time the change of the special symbol is started, the display mode is decreased one by one every time the ball is entered (up to 4). Further, the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a is one by one in the sense of memorizing that every time a game ball enters the variable start winning device 28 (the right start winning port 28a), the entry has occurred. It changes to the display mode after the increase (up to a maximum of 4), and changes to the display mode after the decrease one by one every time the change of the special symbol is triggered by the entry. In the present embodiment, when the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a is not lit (the number of memories is 0), the middle start winning opening 26 is in a state where the first special symbol can already start to change (when stopped). Even if a game ball enters, the display mode does not change. Further, when the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a is not lit (the number of memories is 0), the variable start winning device 28 (right start winning port) in a state where the second special symbol can already start to change (when stopped). Even if a game ball enters the ball 28a), the display mode does not change. That is, the number of memories (maximum of 4) represented by the display mode of each special symbol operation memory lamp 34a, 35a is the number of incoming balls for which the variation of the first special symbol or the second special symbol has not yet started. It represents the number of times.

  In addition, the game state display device 38 includes, for example, six LEDs corresponding respectively to the jackpot type display lamps 38a and 38b, the short time state display lamp 38e, and the launch position designation display lamp 38f. In the present embodiment, the normal symbol display device 33, the normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a, the first special symbol display device 34, the second special symbol display device 35, the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a, and the second special symbol are described. The symbol operation memory lamp 35a and the game state display device 38 are attached to the game board unit 8 in a state of being mounted on one integrated display board 89.

[Other configuration of the game board: see FIG. 3]
The effect unit 40 has an upper edge 40a that functions as a guide member that changes the flow direction of the game ball, and includes various decorative parts 40b and 40c on the inner side. The decorative parts 40b and 40c can enhance the decorativeness of the game board unit 8 by three-dimensional modeling, and can perform a stunning operation by emitting transmitted light from, for example, a built-in light emitter (LED or the like). . In addition, a liquid crystal display 42 (image display) is installed inside the effect unit 40, and various effect images are displayed on the liquid crystal display 42, including effect symbols corresponding to special symbols. . In this way, the game board unit 8 impresses the player with the characteristics of the pachinko machine 1 based on the configuration of the board surface (design of a cell plate (not shown)) and the decoration of the effect unit 40.

  A ball guide passage 40d is formed at the left edge of the effect unit 40, and a rolling stage 40e is formed at the lower edge thereof. The ball guide passage 40d is opened obliquely upward to the left in the game area 8a. When a game ball flowing down in the game area 8a randomly flows into the ball guide path 40d, it passes through the inside and rolls. Released onto the stage 40e. The rolling stage 40e is formed, for example, in two upper and lower stages, of which the upper stage is located at the back as viewed from the player and the lower stage is located at the front as viewed from the player. In both the upper and lower stages, the upper surface of the rolling stage 40e has a smooth curved surface. Here, the game ball can roll in the left-right direction. The game ball that rolls on the rolling stage 40e eventually flows down from the lower stage into the lower game area 8a.

  An inflow passage 40g is formed at a substantially central position of the rolling stage 40e, and game balls can randomly flow into the inflow passage 40g from the upper rolling stage 40e. The inflow passage 40g is formed by extending the lower edge portion of the effect unit 40 downward and then bent in an L shape toward the front side, and a ball discharge port 40h is formed at the end thereof. The ball discharge port 40h is opened toward the front surface, and the opening position is located directly above the middle start winning port 26. For this reason, the game ball that has flowed into the inflow passage 40g from above the rolling stage 40e is discharged from the ball discharge port 40h and easily passes through the middle start winning port 26 just below it (however, it does not always pass). Absent.).

  In addition, the effect unit 40 is provided with a drive source (for example, a motor, a solenoid, and the like) (not shown) together with a movable body 40f (for example, a heart-shaped ornament) for effect. The effect movable body 40f can execute an effect accompanied by an operation of a tangible object in addition to an effect using an image by the liquid crystal display 42 and an effect by a light emitter. Due to such an effect using the movable body 40f, an appealing power different from the effect using a two-dimensional image can be exhibited.

[Control configuration]
Next, a configuration related to control of the pachinko machine 1 will be described. FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing various electronic devices equipped in the pachinko machine 1. The pachinko machine 1 includes a main control device 70 (main control computer) that serves as the center of the control operation. The main control device 70 mainly has a function of controlling the progress of the game in the pachinko machine 1. Yes. The main controller 70 is built in the main control board unit 170 described above.

  The main controller 70 is equipped with a circuit board (main control board) on which a main control CPU 72 as a central processing unit is mounted. The main control CPU 72 includes a ROM 74, a RAM ( RWM) 76 and other semiconductor memories are integrated as an LSI. The main controller 70 is equipped with a random number generator 75 and a sampling circuit 77. Among these, the random number generator 75 generates a hardware random number (for example, 0 to 65535 in decimal notation) for the big symbol determination of the special symbol lottery or the normal symbol lottery, and the random number generated here is generated. Is input to the main control CPU 72 through the sampling circuit 77. In addition, the main controller 70 is equipped with peripheral ICs such as an input / output (I / O) port 79, a clock generation circuit (not shown), a counter / timer circuit (CTC), etc. It is mounted on the board. A signal transmission path, a power supply path, a control bus, and the like are formed as wiring patterns on the circuit board (or the inner layer portion).

  The start gate 20 described above is integrally provided with a gate switch 78 for detecting the passage of a game ball. In addition, the game board unit 8 includes a medium start winning port 26, a variable start winning device 28, a first variable winning device 30, and a second variable winning device 31 corresponding to the middle start winning port switch 80 and the right start winning port, respectively. A switch 82, a first count switch 84, and a second count switch 85 are provided. Each of the start winning port switches 80 and 82 is for detecting a winning of a game ball to the starting winning port 26 and the variable start winning device 28 (right start winning port 28a). Further, the count switch 84 is for detecting the winning of the game ball to the first variable winning device 30 (large winning opening) and counting the number. Further, the second count switch 85 is for detecting the winning of the game ball to the second variable winning device 31 (second big winning port 31b) and counting the number thereof.

  In addition, a specific area switch 83 is provided corresponding to the specific area 31x. For example, a specific area switch 83 is provided inside the second grand prize opening 31b, and it is detected that a game ball passes through the specific area 31x.

  Similarly, the game board unit 8 is equipped with a winning port switch 86 for detecting the winning of the game ball to the normal winning ports 22 and 25. Here, a configuration using a common winning opening switch 86 for all the normal winning openings 22 and 25 is described as an example. For example, separate winning opening switches 86 are installed on the left and right sides of the board, and the left winning opening is set. The switch 86 detects the winning of the game ball for the normal winning ports 22 and 25 located on the left side of the board, and the right winning port switch 86 detects the winning of the game ball for the normal winning hole 25 located on the right side of the board. It is good.

  In any case, winning detection signals and passage detection signals of these switches 80, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86 are input to the main control CPU 72 via an input / output driver (not shown). Note that due to the configuration of the game board unit 8, in this embodiment, winning detection signals and passing detection signals from the gate switch 78, the specific area switch 83, the count switch 84, and the winning opening switch 86 pass through the panel relay terminal plate 87. The panel relay terminal board 87 is provided with wiring patterns, connection terminals, etc. for relaying the respective winning detection signals.

  The above-mentioned normal symbol display device 33, normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a, first special symbol display device 34, second special symbol display device 35, first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a, second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a and game The state display device 38 is controlled in display operation based on a control signal from the main control CPU 72. The main control CPU 72 outputs control signals for the display devices 33, 34, 35, 38 and the lamps 33a, 34a, 35a according to the progress of the game, and controls the lighting state of each LED. The display devices 33, 34, 35, and 38 and the lamps 33a, 34a, and 35a are installed in the game board unit 8 in a state of being mounted on one integrated display board 89 as described above. A control signal is transmitted from the main control CPU 72 to the display substrate 89 through the panel relay terminal board 87.

  In addition, the game board unit 8 includes a variable start winning device 28, a first variable winning device 30, a second variable winning device 31, and a normal electric accessory solenoid 88 and a first grand prize opening solenoid corresponding to the specific area 31x, respectively. 90, a second grand prize winning solenoid 97 and a specific area solenoid 99 are provided. These solenoids 88, 90, 97, 99 are operated (excited) based on a control signal from the main control CPU 72, and variable start winning device 28, first variable winning device 30, second variable winning device 31, and specific area 31x, respectively. Open and close. The solenoids 88, 90, 97, and 99 also transmit control signals from the main control CPU 72 through the panel relay terminal plate 87.

  In addition, a glass frame opening switch 91 is installed in the glass frame unit 4, and a plastic frame opening switch 93 is installed in the plastic frame assembly 7. When the glass frame unit 4 is opened alone, a contact signal from the glass frame opening switch 91 is input to the main controller 70 (main control CPU 72), and the plastic frame assembly 7 is opened from the outer frame assembly 2. Then, a contact signal from the plastic frame opening switch 93 is input to the main controller 70 (main control CPU 72). The main control CPU 72 can detect the open state of the glass frame unit 4 and the plastic frame assembly 7 from these contact signals. When the main control CPU 72 detects the open state of the glass frame unit 4 and the plastic frame assembly 7, the main control CPU 72 generates a door opening information signal as the external information signal.

  On the back side of the pachinko machine 1, a payout control device 92 is equipped (special privilege grant means). The payout control device 92 (payout control computer) controls the operation of the payout device unit 172 described above. The payout control device 92 is equipped with a circuit board (payout control board) on which a payout control CPU 94 is mounted. The payout control CPU 94 is also an LSI in which a semiconductor memory such as a ROM 96 and a RAM 98 is integrated together with a CPU core not shown. It is configured. The payout control device 92 (payout control CPU 94) controls the operation of the payout device unit 172 based on the prize ball instruction command from the main control CPU 72, and executes the payout operation of the requested number of game balls. The main control CPU 72 generates a prize ball information signal as the above external information signal together with the prize ball instruction command.

  In a prize ball case (not shown) of the payout device unit 172, a payout device substrate 100 is installed together with a payout motor 102 (for example, a stepping motor). The payout device substrate 100 is provided with a drive circuit for the payout motor 102. Yes. The payout device substrate 100 specifically controls the rotation angle of the payout motor 102 based on the payout number instruction signal from the payout control device 92 (the payout control CPU 94), and pays out the designated number of game balls from the prize ball case. Let it come out. The paid-out game balls are sent to the tray unit 6 through the payout flow path in the flow path unit 173.

  Further, for example, a payout path ball cut switch 104 is installed at an upstream position of the prize ball case, and a payout counting switch 106 is installed at a downstream position of the payout motor 102. When a prize ball is actually paid out by driving the payout motor 102, a count signal from the payout count switch 106 is input to the payout device substrate 100 each time. Further, when a ball break occurs at an upstream position of the prize ball case, a contact signal from the payout path ball break switch 104 is input to the payout device substrate 100. The dispensing device substrate 100 transmits the input count signal and contact signal to the dispensing control device 92 (dispensing control CPU 94). The payout control CPU 94 can detect the actual payout number and the out-of-ball state based on the signal received from the payout device substrate 100.

  Further, the pachinko machine 1 is provided with a full tank switch 161, for example, inside the lower plate 6c (the position of the bowl as viewed from the front of the pachinko machine 1). The prize balls (game balls) that are actually paid out are discharged to the upper plate 6b through the flow path unit 173. When the upper plate 6b is full of game balls, As described above, it flows into the lower plate 6c. When the lower tray 6c is filled with game balls, the full tank switch 161 is turned ON, and a full tank detection signal is input to the payout control device 92 (payout control CPU 94). In response to this, even if the payout control CPU 94 receives a prize ball instruction command from the main control CPU 72, it temporarily suspends further prize ball operations, and stores the unpaid prize ball remaining number in the RAM 98. Note that the RAM 98 can be backed up even when the power is cut off, so that even if a power failure (including momentary power failure) occurs during the game, the information on the number of remaining unsold prize balls will not be lost. .

  Further, on the back side of the pachinko machine 1, a firing solenoid 110 is installed together with the launch control board 108. In addition, a ball feeding solenoid 111 is provided in the tray unit 6. The launch control board 108, the launch solenoid 110, and the ball feed solenoid 111 constitute the launch control board set 174 described above, and the launch control board 108 is provided with drive circuits for the launch solenoid 110 and the ball feed solenoid 111. ing. Among these, the ball feed solenoid 111 performs an operation of sending out the game balls stored in the tray unit 6 one by one to a predetermined launch position in the launcher case. Further, the launch solenoid 110 hits the game ball sent to the launch position, and performs an operation of continuously (intermittently) launching the game balls one by one toward the game area 8 as described above. Note that the game ball is fired at intervals of, for example, about 0.6 seconds (within 100 per minute).

  On the other hand, the grip unit 16 located on the front side of the pachinko machine 1 is provided with a firing lever volume 112, a touch sensor 114, and a firing stop switch 116. Among these, the firing lever volume 112 generates an analog signal proportional to the operation amount (so-called stroke) of the firing handle by the player. The touch sensor 114 detects that the player's body is touching the grip unit 16 (launching handle) from the change in capacitance, and outputs a detection signal. The firing stop switch 116 generates a firing stop signal (contact signal) in accordance with the player's operation.

  The above receiving tray unit 6 is provided with a launch relay terminal plate 118, and each signal from the launch lever volume 112, the touch sensor 114, and the launch stop switch 116 is sent via the launch relay terminal plate 118. Sent to. The drive signal from the launch control board 108 is applied to the ball feed solenoid 111 via the launch relay terminal board 118. When the player operates the firing handle, an analog signal (which may be an encoded digital signal) is generated by the firing lever volume 112 according to the operation amount, and the firing solenoid 110 is driven based on the signal at this time. Thereby, the strength of launching a game ball is adjusted according to the operation amount of the player. The drive circuit of the firing control board 108 stops driving the firing solenoid 110 when the detection signal from the touch sensor 114 is off (low level) or when the firing stop signal is input from the firing stop switch 116. To do. In addition to this, the launch relay terminal plate 118 is connected with a lending device connection terminal plate 120 such as a game ball, and when the above-mentioned CR unit is not connected to this lending device connection terminal plate 120 such as a game ball, the launch is similarly performed. The drive circuit of the control board 108 stops driving the firing solenoid 110.

  The tray unit 6 includes a frequency display board 122 and a rental / return switch board 123. Of these, the frequency display board 122 is provided with the display of the frequency display unit (7-segment LED for 3 digits). In addition, switch modules connected to the ball lending button 10 and the return button 12 are mounted on the lending / return switch board 123, and when the ball lending button 10 or the return button 12 is operated, the operation signal is lended. And the return switch board 123 via the game ball lending device connection terminal board 120 to the CR unit. Further, a frequency signal indicating the remaining frequency of the valuable medium is transmitted from the CR unit to the frequency display board 122 via the gaming ball lending device connection terminal board 120. A display circuit (not shown) on the frequency display board 122 drives the display unit based on the frequency signal, and displays the remaining frequency of the valuable medium as a numerical value. In addition, when no valuable medium is inserted into the CR unit, or when the remaining frequency of the inserted valuable medium becomes zero, the display circuit of the frequency display board 122 drives the display to display a demonstration (value medium). Display for urging the user to input.

  Further, the pachinko machine 1 includes an effect control device 124 (effect control computer) as a control configuration. The effect control device 124 controls the effect accompanying the progress of the game in the pachinko machine 1. The effect control device 124 is also equipped with a circuit board (composite sub-control board) on which an effect control CPU 126 that is a central processing unit is mounted. The effect control CPU 126 includes a CPU core (not shown) and a semiconductor memory such as a ROM 128 and a RAM 130 as a main memory. The production control device 124 is provided at a position covered with the back cover unit 178 on the back side of the pachinko machine 1.

  The effect control device 124 is equipped with an input / output driver (not shown) and various peripheral ICs, as well as a lamp drive circuit 132 and an acoustic drive circuit 134. The production control CPU 126 performs production control based on the production command transmitted from the main control CPU 72, and gives commands to the lamp driving circuit 132 and the acoustic driving circuit 134 to emit various lamps 46 to 52 and the panel lamp 53. Or a process of actually outputting sound effects, voices, and the like from the speakers 54, 55, and 56.

  The effect control device 124 and the main control device 70 are connected to each other via, for example, a communication harness (not shown). However, the communication between these is performed only in one direction from the main control device 70 to the effect control device 124, and communication in the reverse direction is not performed. The communication harness may adopt a parallel format according to the bus widths of various commands transmitted from the main control device 70 to the effect control device 124, and each driver IC (I / O). A serial format may be adopted according to the hardware configuration.

  The lamp driving circuit 132 includes a switching element such as a PWM (pulse width modulation) IC or a MOSFET (not shown). The lamp driving circuit 132 switches driving voltages (or duty switching) applied to various lamps including LEDs. ) And manage the operation such as light emission and flashing. In addition to the glass frame top lamps 46 and 48, the glass frame side lamp 50, and the tray lamp 52, the various lamps include a decoration / production board lamp 53 installed in the game board unit 8. The panel lamp 53 corresponds to an LED incorporated in the above-described effect unit, or an LED incorporated in the variable start winning device 28, the first variable winning device 30, the second variable winning device 31, and the like. Here, although the example in which the saucer lamp 52 is connected to the glass frame decorating board 136 is given, a saucer illuminated board is installed in the saucer unit 6, and the saucer lamp 52 is interposed via the saucer illuminated board. It may be configured to be connected to the lamp driving circuit 132.

  The acoustic drive circuit 134 is, for example, a sound generator that includes a sound ROM, an acoustic control IC, an amplifier, and the like (not shown). The acoustic drive circuit 134 drives the upper speaker 54 and the lower speaker 56 to perform acoustic output. .

  In the present embodiment, a glass frame decoration board 136 is installed on the inner surface of the glass frame unit 4, and drive signals from the lamp drive circuit 132 and the acoustic drive circuit 134 pass through the glass frame decoration board 136 and various lamps 46. To 52 and speakers 54, 55, and 56. Also, the effect switching button 45 is connected to the glass frame decorating board 136, and when the player operates the effect switching button 45, the contact signal is sent to the effect control device 124 through the glass frame decorating board 136. Entered. In addition, although the example which connected the production | presentation switch button 45 to the glass-frame decoration board 136 is given here, when installing said saucer illumination board, the production switch button 45 is connected to the saucer illumination board. Also good. In addition, a panel board 138 is installed in the game board unit 8, and a movable body solenoid 57 is connected to the panel board 138 in addition to the panel lamp 53. The movable body solenoid 57 drives the movable body 40f, for example, via a link mechanism (not shown). The driving signal from the lamp driving circuit 132 is applied to the panel lamp 53 and the movable body solenoid 57 via the panel electric decoration board 138, respectively. The movable body solenoid 57 may be a motor.

  The liquid crystal display 42 is installed on the back side of the game board unit 8, and the display screen is visible through a substantially rectangular opening formed in the game board unit 8. Further, an inverter board 158 is installed on the back side of the game board unit 8, and the inverter board 158 generates an AC power source that is applied to a backlight (for example, a cold cathode tube) of the liquid crystal display 42. Further, an effect display control device 144 is installed on the back side of the game board unit 8, and the display operation by the liquid crystal display 42 is controlled by the effect display control device 144. The effect display control device 144 is equipped with a display control CPU 146 that is a general-purpose central processing unit and a circuit board (effect display control board) on which a VDP 152 that is a display processor is mounted. Among these, the display control CPU 146 is configured as an LSI in which semiconductor memories such as a ROM 148 and a RAM 150 are integrated together with a CPU core (not shown). The VDP 152 is configured as an LSI in which a semiconductor core such as an image ROM 154 and a VRAM 156 is integrated with a processor core (not shown). The VRAM 156 can use a part of the storage area as a frame buffer.

  The ROM 128 of the effect control CPU 126 stores a basic program related to effect control, and the effect control CPU 126 executes effect control according to this program. The production control includes production control using various lamps 46 to 53 and speakers 54, 55, and 56 as described above, and production control by image display using the liquid crystal display 42. . The effect control CPU 126 transmits basic information (for example, effect number) related to the effect to the display control CPU 146, and the display control CPU 146 that receives the information transmits a specific effect image based on the basic information. Control the display.

  The display control CPU 146 outputs a more detailed control signal to the VDP 152. Receiving this, the VDP 152 accesses the image ROM 154 based on the control signal, reads necessary image data therefrom, and transfers it to the VRAM 156. Further, the VDP 152 expands the image data in the frame buffer for each frame (still image per unit time) on the VRAM 156, and individually handles each pixel (full color pixel) of the liquid crystal display 42 based on the buffered image data. To drive.

  In addition, a power supply control unit 162 (power supply control means) is provided on the back side of the plastic frame assembly 7. The power supply control unit 162 has a built-in switching power supply circuit. When external power (for example, AC 24V) is taken from the island facility through the power cord 164, necessary power (for example, DC + 34V, + 12V) can be generated therefrom. The electric power generated by the power supply control unit 162 is distributed to the main control device 70, the payout control device 92, the effect control device 124, and the inverter board 158. Furthermore, power is supplied to the launch control board 108 via the payout control device 92, and power is supplied to the CR unit via the game ball rental device connection terminal board 120. The low voltage power for logic (for example, DC + 5V) is generated by a power supply IC (3-terminal regulator or the like) built in each device. Further, as described above, the power supply control unit 164 is grounded (grounded) to the island facility through the ground wire 166.

  The external terminal plate 160 is connected to the payout control device 92, and various external information signals generated by the main control device 70 (main control CPU 72) pass through the payout control device 92 to the external terminal plate 160. Is output to the outside. The main control device 70 (main control CPU 72) and the payout control device 92 (payout control CPU 94) can output an external information signal to the outside of the pachinko machine 1 through the external terminal board 160. The signals output from the external terminal board 160 are collected by, for example, a hall computer (not shown) in a game hall. Here, the configuration via the payout control device 92 is taken as an example, but a configuration in which an external information signal is directly output from the main control device 70 to the external terminal board 160 may be used.

  The above is a configuration example relating to the control of the pachinko machine 1. Next, control processing executed by the main control CPU 72 of the main control device 70 will be described.

[Reset start (main) processing]
When the pachinko machine 1 is powered on, the main control CPU 72 starts a reset start process. The reset start process restores the gaming state based on the backup information saved at the previous power shutdown (so-called power recovery) or conversely clears the backup information, thereby adjusting the initial state of the pachinko machine 1 Process. The reset start process is positioned as a main process (main control program) for guaranteeing a stable gaming operation of the pachinko machine 1 after adjusting the initial state.

  8 and 9 are flowcharts showing an example of the procedure of the reset start process. Hereinafter, the process performed by the main control CPU 72 will be described step by step.

  Step S101: First, the main control CPU 72 sets the top address of the stack area in the stack pointer.

  Step S102: Subsequently, the main control CPU 72 sets the vector-type interrupt mode (mode 2) and corrects the default RST-type interrupt mode (mode 0). Thus, thereafter, the main control CPU 72 can refer to an arbitrary address (however, the least significant bit is 0) as an interrupt vector and execute a designated interrupt handler.

  Step S103: The main control CPU 72 executes a standby process at reset. This process is for securing a certain standby time (for example, about several thousand ms) at the time of reset start (for example, power-on) and checking the main power-off detection signal during that time. Specifically, when the main control CPU 72 sets the loop counter for the waiting time, the main control CPU 72 bit-checks the input port of the main power-off detection signal while decrementing the value of the loop counter. The main power-off detection signal is input from, for example, a power monitoring IC that is a peripheral device. If the input of the main power-off detection signal is confirmed before the loop counter reaches 0, the main control CPU 72 restarts the process from the beginning. As a result, for example, the system can be protected when a main power switch (not shown) is turned on and off repeatedly within a short time (about 1 to 2 seconds).

  Step S104: Next, the main control CPU 72 permits access to the work area of the RAM 76. Specifically, the RAM protect setting value in the work area is reset (00H). As a result, thereafter, access to the work area of the RAM 76 is permitted.

  Step S105: Also, the main control CPU 72 performs initial setting of a mask register in order to set an interrupt mask. Specifically, a value for enabling the CTC interrupt is stored in the mask register.

  Step S106: The main control CPU 72 refers to the input signal from the previously cleared RAM clear switch and confirms whether or not the RAM clear switch has been operated (switch ON). If the RAM clear switch is not operated (No), step S107 is executed next.

  Step S107: Next, the main control CPU 72 checks whether or not backup information is stored in the RAM 76, that is, whether or not a backup validity determination flag is set. If the backup is normally completed in the previous power-off process and the backup validity determination flag (for example, “A55AH”) is set (Yes), then the main control CPU 72 executes step S108.

  Step S108: The main control CPU 72 executes a sum check on the backup information in the RAM 76. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 sum-checks all areas of the work area of the RAM 76 (a user work area including a use-prohibited area and a stack area) except the backup validity determination flag and the sum check buffer. If the result of the sum check is normal (Yes), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S109.

Step S109: The main control CPU 72 resets the backup validity determination flag (for example, “0000H”).
Step S110: Also, the main control CPU 72 clears the command waiting for transmission immediately before the previous power-off occurrence.

  Step S111: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes an effect control return process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 instructs the effect control device 124 to return a command (for example, a model designation command, a special symbol probability state designation command, an effect command when the working memory number increases, an effect command when the working memory number decreases, Counter remaining number command, special gaming state designation command, etc.). In response to this, the effect control device 124 performs the effect state (for example, the internal probability state, the effect symbol display mode, the operation memory count effect display mode, the sound output content, and the various lamps being executed at the time of the previous power shutdown. Light emission state, etc.) can be restored.

  Step S112: The main control CPU 72 executes state return processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 sets various values in the work area of the RAM 76 based on the backup information, and the gaming state (for example, the display state of special symbols, the internal probability state, The operation memory contents, various flag states, random number update states, etc.) are restored. Further, the main control CPU 72 restores the backed up PC register value.

  On the other hand, when the RAM clear switch is operated at power-on (step S106: Yes), when the backup validity determination flag is not set (step S107: No), or when the backup information is not normal. (Step S108: No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to Step S113.

Step S113: The main control CPU 72 clears the stored contents other than the use prohibited area of the RAM 76. As a result, the work area and stack area of the RAM 76 are all initialized, and even if valid backup information is stored, the contents are erased.
Step S114: Also, the main control CPU 72 performs initial setting of the RAM 76.

  Step S115: The main control CPU 72 executes an effect control output process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 outputs a command (command necessary for effect control) to be transmitted to the effect control device 124 after the initial setting.

  Step S116: The main control CPU 72 executes a payout control output process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 outputs an instruction command for starting the payout of prize balls to the payout control device 92.

  Step S117: The main control CPU 72 executes CTC initial setting processing, and performs initial setting of a CTC (counter / timer circuit) that is a peripheral device. In this process, the main control CPU 72 sets an interrupt vector register and sets an interrupt count value (for example, 4 ms) in the CTC. As a result, when a CTC interrupt occurs next time, the main control CPU 72 can continue the processing from the program address of the PC register that has been backed up.

  When the above procedure is executed in the reset start process, the main control CPU 72 shifts to the main loop shown in FIG. 9 (connection symbol A → A).

  Step S118, Step S119: The main control CPU 72 executes the power interruption occurrence check process after prohibiting interruption. In this process, the main control CPU 72 performs bit check on the input port of the main power-off detection signal and monitors the occurrence of power-off (decrease in drive voltage). When the power is cut off, the main control CPU 72 clears the output port buffer corresponding to the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 88, the big prize opening solenoid 90, etc., and the entire area excluding the backup validity judgment flag and the sum check buffer in the work area of the RAM 76. Is backed up, and the sum result value is stored in the sum check buffer. Then, the main control CPU 72 stores the above effective value (for example, “A55AH”) in the backup validity determination flag area, prohibits access to the RAM 76, and stops (NOP) the process. On the other hand, if the power shutoff does not occur, the main control CPU 72 next executes step S120. There is also a known programming example in which the CPU executes the process at the time of the occurrence of power interruption as a non-maskable interrupt (NMI) process.

  Step S120: The main control CPU 72 executes an initial value update random number update process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 increments random numbers for updating (changing) initial values of various software random numbers. In this embodiment, jackpot determined random numbers (hardware random numbers) and various random numbers excluding hit determined random numbers (hardware random numbers) corresponding to ordinary symbols (for example, jackpot symbol random numbers, reach determination random numbers, variation pattern determination random numbers, etc.) Is generated in the program. These software random numbers are updated by a loop counter within a predetermined range in another interrupt process (step S201 in FIG. 11). In this process, the initial value of the loop counter (all The random number of may not be the target). The initial value updating random number is used to randomly change the initial value, and in step S120, the initial value updating random number is updated. Note that the reason why step S120 is executed after the interruption is prohibited in step S118 is that the same process is executed in another interrupt management process (step S202 in FIG. 11), so there is a duplication (contention). ) To prevent the above). As described above, in the present embodiment, the big hit determined random number and the hit determined random number are hardware random numbers generated by the random number generator 75, and the update cycle is faster than the timer interrupt cycle (for example, several ms). Since it is (for example, several μs), it is not necessary to update the big hit determined random number and the initial value of the hit determined random number.

  Step S121, Step S122: The main control CPU 72 permits the interrupt and executes other random number update processing. The random numbers updated by this processing are random numbers (reach determination random numbers, variation pattern determination random numbers, etc.) that are not related to the determination of the winning type (winning type) among software random numbers. This process is performed for the remaining time when a timer interrupt occurs during execution of the main loop and the main control CPU 72 executes another interrupt management process (FIG. 11). The contents of the interrupt management process will be described later.

[Power failure check processing]
FIG. 10 is a flowchart specifically illustrating a procedure example of the power-off occurrence check process.
Step S130: First, the main control CPU 72 sets a condition for checking the occurrence of power interruption. This check condition can be set as an on-counter value for confirming that the main power-off detection signal is continuously output, for example.

  Step S132: Next, the main control CPU 72 reads the main power-off detection switch input port and confirms whether or not the main power-off detection signal is output (checks a specific bit). Although not particularly illustrated, the main power-off detection switch is mounted on the main controller 70, for example, and this main power-off detection switch monitors the drive voltage supplied from the power control unit 162, and the voltage level is monitored. When the voltage falls below the reference voltage, the main power-off detection signal is output. Note that the main power-off detection switch may be built in the power control unit 162. When the main control CPU 72 confirms that the main power-off detection signal is not output at this time (No), the main control CPU 72 exits this process and returns to the reset start process. On the other hand, when it is confirmed that the main power-off detection signal is output (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S134.

  Step S134: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the above check conditions are satisfied. Specifically, for example, 1 is subtracted from the on-counter value set in the previous step S130, and it is confirmed whether or not the result is 0. If the on-counter value is not yet 0 at this time (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to step S132 and reconfirms the main power-off detection switch input port. When the check condition is satisfied by repeating the loop from step S134 to step S132 (step S134: Yes), the main control CPU 72 then proceeds to step S136.

  Step S136: The main control CPU 72 clears the output port buffer corresponding to the test signal terminal and the command control signal in addition to the output port corresponding to the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 88 and the big prize opening solenoid 90 as described above.

Step S138, Step S140: Next, the main control CPU 72 adds the entire contents excluding the backup validity determination flag and the sum check buffer in the work area of the RAM 76 in units of 1 byte, and repeats until the addition is completed for all areas. .
Step S142: When the calculation of the sum is completed for all the areas (Step S140: Yes), the main control CPU 72 stores the sum result value in the sum check buffer.

Step S144: Next, the main control CPU 72 stores the valid value in the backup validity determination flag area as described above.
Step S146: Further, the main control CPU 72 stores “01H” indicating access prohibition in the protect value of the RAM 76, and prohibits access to the work area (including the use prohibition area and the stack area) of the RAM 76.
Step S148: Then, the main control CPU 72 enters a standby loop, and stops all other processes in preparation for shutting off the main power supply. After the main power is cut off, the backup power is supplied from a backup power circuit (not shown) (for example, a circuit including a capacitive element mounted on the main controller 70), so the stored contents of the RAM 76 are lost even after the main power is turned off. Held without. The backup power supply circuit may be incorporated in the power supply control unit 162, for example.

  Through the above processing, all the information stored in the work area of the RAM 76 to be backed up (sum added) is retained in the RAM 76 even after the main power is turned off. The stored memory is restored as backup information when the power is turned off after confirming the normality of the checksum in the previous reset start process (FIG. 8).

[Interrupt management processing (timer interrupt processing)]
Next, interrupt management processing (timer interrupt processing) will be described. FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary procedure of interrupt management processing. The main control CPU 72 executes an interrupt management process every predetermined time (for example, several ms) based on the interrupt request signal from the counter / timer circuit. Each procedure will be described below.

  Step S200: First, the main control CPU 72 saves the values of the registers (accumulator A, flag register F, and general-purpose registers B to L) used during execution of the main loop in the save area of the RAM 76. Another value can be written in the registers (A to L) after the value is saved in the interrupt management process.

  Step S201: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a lottery random number update process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 updates the value of the counter for generating various random numbers for lottery. The value of each counter is incremented in the counter area of the RAM 76 and loops within a specified range. Various random numbers include, for example, jackpot symbol random numbers.

  Step S202: The main control CPU 72 executes the initial value update random number update process also here. The content of the process is the same as described above.

  Step S203: The main control CPU 72 executes input processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 inputs various switch signals from an input / output (I / O) port 79. Specifically, a passage detection signal from the gate switch 78, a middle start winning port switch 80, a right starting winning port switch 82, a first count switch 84, a second count switch 85, a winning port switch 86, and a specific area switch 83. The input state (ON / OFF) of the winning detection signal from is read.

  Step S204: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes switch input event processing. In this processing, among the switch signals input in the previous input processing, the gate switch 78, the middle start winning port switch 80, the right starting winning port switch 82, the first count switch 84, the second count switch 85, and the specific area switch 83. Based on the passage detection signal from, an event that occurred during the game is determined, and further processing is executed according to the event that has occurred. The specific contents of the switch input event process will be described later with reference to another flowchart.

  In this embodiment, when a winning detection signal (ON) is input from the middle start winning opening switch 80 or the right starting winning opening switch 82, the main control CPU 72 performs internal lottery corresponding to the first special symbol or the second special symbol, respectively. It is determined that an event that triggers the event (lottery opportunity) has occurred. Further, when a passage detection signal (ON) is input from the gate switch 78, the main control CPU 72 determines that an event serving as a lottery trigger corresponding to the normal symbol has occurred. If it is determined that any event has occurred, the main control CPU 72 executes a process corresponding to each event. Note that processing executed when a winning detection signal is input from the middle start winning opening switch 80 or the right starting winning opening switch 82 will be described later with reference to another flowchart.

  Step S205, Step S206: The main control CPU 72 executes a special symbol game process and a normal symbol game process during the interrupt management process. These processes are for specifically proceeding with the game in the pachinko machine 1. Of these, in the special symbol game process (step S205), the main control CPU 72 controls the execution of the internal lottery corresponding to the first special symbol or the second special symbol described above, or the first special symbol display device 34 and the second special symbol display device 34. 2 Controls the display of fluctuation and stop by the special symbol display device 35, and controls the operation of the first variable winning device 30 and the second variable winning device 31 according to the display result. Details of the special symbol game process will be described later with reference to another flowchart.

  In the normal symbol game process (step S206), the main control CPU 72 controls the variable display and stop display by the normal symbol display device 33 described above, and operates the variable start winning device 28 according to the display result. Or control. For example, the main control CPU 72 stores a random number (ordinary random number per symbol) acquired in response to the passage of the start gate 20 in the previous switch input event processing (step S204). The random number value is read out from the memory, and it is determined whether or not it falls within a predetermined hit range (normal symbol lottery execution means). When the random number value falls within the hit range, the normal symbol display device 33 displays the normal symbol in a variable manner, and after stopping the normal symbol in a predetermined hit state, the main control CPU 72 switches the normal electric accessory solenoid 88 on. Excitingly activates the variable start winning device 28 (movable piece actuating means). On the other hand, if the random number value is out of the hit range, the main control CPU 72 performs a normal symbol stop display in a manner of deviation after the variable display.

  In the normal symbol game process (step S206), the following process can also be executed. For example, if the normal symbol that started to change before the time reduction state ends, and the change ends after the time reduction state ends, the normal symbol lottery is executed again at the end of the normal symbol change, depending on the lottery result. The normal symbol can be stopped and displayed in the same manner (normal symbol re-lottery execution means at the time of state change).

  Step S207: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes prize ball payout processing. In this process, based on the winning detection signals input from the various switches 80, 82, 84, 85, 86 in the previous input process (step S203), a prize ball instruction for instructing the payout control device 92 the number of prize balls. Output the command.

[About the number of prize balls and number of game balls won]
The number of prize balls at the start port of the first special symbol and the number of prize balls at the start port of the second special symbol are each set to a specified number of one or more. In addition, the number of prize balls may be different between the start port of the first special symbol and the start port of the second special symbol. In addition, the minimum number of winning balls is set based on the winning probability of the special symbol and the expected value of the total number of game balls (the average number of balls that can be obtained during the period from the start to the end of the time reduction state) May be. Furthermore, the winning probability of special symbols, the expected number of game balls won, the number of opening of the big prize opening, the opening time of the big winning opening, the maximum number of winning of the big winning opening, the number of winning balls of the big winning opening are predetermined. When the condition is satisfied, a big hit may be set such that the number of game balls acquired by one big hit is less than 1/4 of the maximum number of acquired game balls.

  Step S208: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes external information processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 sends the above-mentioned external information signals (for example, prize ball information, door opening information, symbol determination number information, jackpot information, start port information, etc.) to the hall computer of the game hall through the external terminal board 160. Store in port output request buffer.

  In this embodiment, among the various external information signals, for example, “big hit 1” to “big hit 5” are output to the outside as jackpot information, so that an external electronic device (data display) connected to the pachinko machine 1 is displayed. Various jackpot information can be provided (external information signal output means). In other words, the jackpot information is divided into a plurality of “big hit 1” to “big hit 5” and output, so that the type of jackpot (winning type) from these combinations can be tabulated and managed by a hall computer (not shown) or internal Recognize changes in the probability state (low probability state or high probability state) or shortened state of symbol variation time, or generate a small hit (a hit where the condition device does not work) that is not classified as a “big hit” even if it is not winning Can be aggregated and managed. Based on the jackpot information, for example, a data display device (not shown) counts and displays the number of jackpot occurrences within the past several business days for each pachinko machine 1, and recognizes whether or not each jackpot is currently hit Or can recognize whether or not each symbol is currently in a shortened state of the symbol variation time. In this external information processing, the main control CPU 72 controls each output state (set of ON or OFF) of “big hit 1” to “big hit 5” in detail.

  Step S209: Further, the main control CPU 72 executes test signal processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 generates various test signals representing its internal state (for example, normal symbol game management state, special symbol game management state, jackpot, probability variation function in operation, time reduction function in operation). These are stored in the port output request buffer. With this test signal, for example, the internal state of the main control CPU 72 can be tested outside the main controller 70.

  Step S210: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes display output management processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 performs the normal symbol display device 33, the normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a, the first special symbol display device 34, the second special symbol display device 35, the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a, and the second special symbol. The lighting state of the operation memory lamp 35a, the game state display device 38, etc. is controlled. Specifically, the drive signal stored in the port output request buffer is output to the port in the previous special symbol game process (step S205) or the normal symbol game process (step S206). The drive signal is stored in the port output request buffer as byte data to be applied to each LED. As a result, each LED is driven in a predetermined display mode (a mode of performing symbol variation display, stop display, working memory number display, game state display, etc.).

  Step S211: The main control CPU 72 executes output management processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 outputs the external information signal (byte data) stored in the port output request buffer in the previous external information processing (step S208). In addition, the main control CPU 72 drives the driving signals and test signals of the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 88, the first big prize opening solenoid 90, the second big prize opening solenoid 97, and the specific area solenoid 99 stored in the port output request buffer. Etc., and port output.

  Step S212: The main control CPU 72 executes an effect control output process. In this processing, it is confirmed whether or not there is a command (command necessary for presentation control) that the main control CPU 72 should transmit to the presentation control device 124 in the command buffer. Output port.

  Step S213: The main control CPU 72 clears the port output request buffer stored by the current CTC interrupt.

  In the present embodiment, an example is given in which the processing (game control program module) in steps S205 to S212 is executed as a timer interrupt processing. However, these processing are incorporated in the main loop of the CPU and executed. There are also known programming examples.

  Step S214: When the above processing is completed, the main control CPU 72 stores a value (01H) for designating the end of interrupt in the interrupt program counter, and ends the CTC interrupt.

  Step S215, Step S216: Then, the main control CPU 72 restores the saved values of the registers (A to L) and permits the next CTC interrupt. Thereafter, the main control CPU 72 returns to the main loop (program address indicated by the stack pointer).

[Switch input event processing]
FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the switch input event process (step S204 in FIG. 11). Each procedure will be described below.

  Step S10: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not a winning detection signal is input (a lottery opportunity is generated) from the middle start winning opening switch 80 corresponding to the first special symbol. When the input of the winning detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S12 and executes the first special symbol memory update process. Specific processing contents will be further described later using another flowchart. On the other hand, when no winning detection signal is input (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S14.

  Step S14: Next, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not a winning detection signal is input (a lottery opportunity is generated) from the right start winning port switch 82 corresponding to the second special symbol. When the input of the winning detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S16 and executes the second special symbol memory update process. Here again, the details of the specific processing will be further described later using another flowchart. On the other hand, if there is no input of a winning detection signal (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S18.

  Step S18: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not a winning detection signal is input from the first count switch 84 corresponding to the first big winning opening of the first variable winning device 30. When the input of the winning detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S19 and executes the first big winning mouth count process. In the first grand prize winning count process, the main control CPU 72 counts the number of winning balls to the first variable prize winning device 30 for each round during the big hit game. On the other hand, if there is no input of a winning detection signal (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S20.

  Step S20: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not a winning detection signal is input from the second count switch 85 corresponding to the second large winning opening 31b of the second variable winning device 31. When the input of the winning detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S21 and executes the second big winning mouth count process. In the second big prize winning count processing, the main control CPU 72 counts the number of winning balls to the second variable prize winning device 31 during the big hit game (during the small hit game). On the other hand, if no winning detection signal is input (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S22.

  Step S22: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not a passage detection signal is input from the gate switch 78 corresponding to the normal symbol. When the input of the passage detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S24 and executes the normal symbol memory update process. In the normal symbol memory update process, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the current number of normal symbol working memories is less than the upper limit number (for example, 4), and if it does not reach the upper limit number, obtains a random number per normal symbol To do. Further, the main control CPU 72 increments the normal symbol operation memory number by one. Then, the main control CPU 72 stores the acquired random value per normal symbol in the random number storage area of the RAM 76. On the other hand, when there is no input of the passage detection signal (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S26.

  Step S26: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not a passage detection signal is input from the specific area switch 83 corresponding to the specific area 31x in the second big prize winning opening 31b. When the input of the passage detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S28 and executes a process of turning on the specific area detection flag. Note that the specific area detection flag can be turned ON only when it is time to validate whether it is time to validate the passage of the specific area 31x. On the other hand, when there is no input of the passage detection signal (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the interrupt management process (FIG. 11).

[First special symbol memory update process]
FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the first special symbol memory update process (step S12 in FIG. 12). Hereinafter, the procedure of the first special symbol memory update process will be described in order.

  Step S30: First, the main control CPU 72 refers to the value of the first special symbol working memory number counter to check whether or not the working memory number is less than the maximum value (for example, 4). The working memory number counter represents the number (the number of sets) of big hit determination random numbers and big hit symbol random numbers stored in the random number storage area of the RAM 76. Here, the random number storage area of the RAM 76 is divided into eight sections (for example, 2 bytes each) used in common for the first special symbol and the second special symbol, and each section has a big hit decision random number and a big hit symbol. Random numbers can be stored one by one. At this time, if the value of the working memory number counter corresponding to the first special symbol has reached the maximum value (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the switch input event processing (FIG. 12). On the other hand, if the value of the working memory number counter is less than the maximum value (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S31.

  Step S31: The main control CPU 72 adds one first special symbol working memory number. The first special symbol operation memory number counter is stored, for example, in the operation memory number area of the RAM 76, and the main control CPU 72 increments (+1) the value. Based on the counter value added here, the lighting state of the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a is controlled by the display output management process (step S210 in FIG. 11).

  Step S32: The main control CPU 72 acquires a jackpot determination random number value corresponding to the first special symbol from the random number generator 75 through the sampling circuit 77 (acquisition of first lottery element, lottery element acquisition means). The random value is acquired by specifying the pin address of the random number generator 75. In the case where the main control CPU 72 performs 8-bit processing, the address designation is performed twice for each upper byte and lower byte. When the main control CPU 72 reads the jackpot determination random number value from the designated address, the main control CPU 72 saves it at the transfer destination address as a jackpot determination random number corresponding to the first special symbol.

  Step S33: Next, the main control CPU 72 acquires a jackpot symbol random number value corresponding to the first special symbol from the jackpot symbol random number counter area of the RAM 76. The acquisition of the random number value is also performed by designating the address of the jackpot symbol random number counter area. When the main control CPU 72 reads the jackpot symbol random number value from the designated address, the main control CPU 72 saves it at the transfer destination address as a jackpot symbol random number corresponding to the first special symbol.

  Step S34: Also, the main control CPU 72 sequentially acquires a reach determination random number and a variation pattern determination random number from the variation random number counter area of the RAM 76 as a random value related to the variation condition of the first special symbol (variation pattern determination element acquisition). means). Similarly, these random number values are acquired by designating the address of the random number counter area for variation. Then, when the main control CPU 72 acquires the reach determination random number and the variation pattern determination random number from the designated address, it saves them in the transfer destination address.

  Step S35: The main control CPU 72 transfers the saved jackpot determination random number, jackpot symbol random number, reach determination random number and variation pattern determination random number to the random number storage area corresponding to the first special symbol, and these random numbers are stored in the empty section in the area. Are stored as a set (first lottery element storage means). The order (for example, first to fourth) is set in the plurality of sections. If all the first to fourth sections are empty at this stage, the random numbers are stored in order from the first section. Alternatively, if the first section is already filled and the other second to fourth sections are empty, the random numbers are stored in order from the second section. Note that the random number storage area is read out in a FIFO (First In First Out) format.

  Step S36: Next, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the current special game management status (game state) is a big hit. If it is not during the big hit (No), the main control CPU 72 executes the following steps S37 and S38. If it is a big hit (Yes), the main control CPU 72 skips steps S37 and S38 and proceeds to step S38a. The reason why this determination is made in the present embodiment is that the effect of pre-reading is not performed for the incoming ball generated during the big hit.

  Step S37: When the jackpot is not a big hit (Step S36: No), the main control CPU 72 executes an effect determination process at the time of acquisition for the first special symbol. In this process, the special symbol lottery random number, the big hit symbol random number and the variation pattern determination random number obtained in the previous steps S32 to S34 are obtained in advance (before the variation starts). To determine the content of the production (so-called “look ahead”). In this process, the result of the first special symbol pre-determination is set in the lower byte of the special symbol variation pattern destination determination command.

  Step S38: When the acquisition effect determination process is executed, the main control CPU 72 next sets the upper bytes (for example, “B8H”) of the special symbol variation pattern destination determination command for the first special symbol. This high-order byte data describes that the command type is “for special figure destination determination effect relating to the first special symbol”. In addition, since the lower byte portion (information about whether or not it is determined and information about the variation time) of the special symbol variation pattern destination determination command is set in the previous acquisition effect determination processing (step S37), the upper byte is set in the lower byte here. By combining, for example, a command having a length of 1 word is generated.

  Step S38a: Next, the main control CPU 72 sets an effect command at the time of increasing the number of working memories regarding the first special symbol. Specifically, for the preceding value (for example, “BBH”) of the upper byte representing the type of command, a 1-word length in which the increased number of working memories (for example, “01H” to “04H”) is added to the lower byte. A production command is generated. At this time, for the lower byte, the second place is set to “0” by default to indicate that the value is “result (change information) due to increase in number of working memories”. That is, if the lower byte is “01H”, it indicates that the current working memory number has become “01H” as a result of increasing by one from the previous working memory number “00H”. Similarly, if the lower byte is “02H” to “04H”, it is increased by one from the previous working memory numbers “01H” to “03H”, so that the current working memory number is “02H” to “02H”. 04H ". The preceding value “BBH” is a value indicating that the current effect command is the working memory number command for the first special symbol.

  Step S39: The main control CPU 72 executes an effect command output setting process for the first special symbol. In this process, the special symbol variation pattern destination determination command generated in the previous step S38, the effect command for increasing the number of working memories generated in step S38a, and the start opening winning sound control command are transmitted to the effect control device 124. (Memorized number notification means).

  When the above procedure is completed or the first special symbol operation memory number has reached 4 (step S30: No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the switch input event process (FIG. 12).

[Second special symbol memory update process]
Next, FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the second special symbol memory update process (step S16 in FIG. 12). Hereinafter, the procedure of the second special symbol memory update process will be described in order.

  Step S40: The main control CPU 72 refers to the value of the second special symbol working memory number counter to check whether or not the working memory number is less than the maximum value. Similarly to the above, the second special symbol actuated memory number counter represents the number (number of sets) of jackpot determination random numbers and jackpot symbol random numbers stored in the random number storage area of the RAM 76. At this time, if the value of the second special symbol operation memory number counter reaches the maximum value (for example, 4) (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the switch input event process (FIG. 12). On the other hand, if the value of the second special symbol operation memory number counter is still less than the maximum value (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S41 and thereafter.

  Step S41: The main control CPU 72 increments the second special symbol working memory number by one (increments the value of the second special symbol working memory number counter). Similarly to the previous step S31 (FIG. 13), the lighting state of the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a is controlled by the display output management process (step S210 in FIG. 11) based on the counter value added here. Will be.

  Step S42: The main control CPU 72 acquires a jackpot determination random number value corresponding to the second special symbol from the random number generator 75 through the sampling circuit 77 (acquisition of second lottery element, lottery element acquisition means). The method for acquiring the random number value is the same as step S32 (FIG. 13) described above.

  Step S43: Next, the main control CPU 72 acquires a jackpot symbol random number value corresponding to the second special symbol from the jackpot symbol random number counter area of the RAM 76. The method for acquiring the random value is the same as that in step S33 (FIG. 13) described above.

  Step S44: Also, the main control CPU 72 sequentially acquires a reach determination random number and a variation pattern determination random number regarding the variation condition of the second special symbol from the variation random number counter area of the RAM 76 (variation pattern determination element acquisition means). Acquisition of these random values is also performed in the same manner as step S34 (FIG. 13) described above.

  Step S45: The main control CPU 72 transfers the saved jackpot determination random number, jackpot symbol random number, reach determination random number, and variation pattern determination random number to the random number storage area corresponding to the second special symbol, and these random numbers in the empty section in the area Are stored as a set (second lottery element storage means). The storage method is the same as step S35 (FIG. 13) described above.

  Step S45a: Next, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the current game management status (game state) is a big hit. If it is not a big hit (No), the main control CPU 72 executes the following steps S46 and S47. Conversely, if it is a big hit (Yes), the main control CPU 72 skips steps S46 and S47 and proceeds to step S48. The reason why this determination is made in the present embodiment is that the effect of pre-reading is not performed for the same incoming ball that occurred during the big hit.

  Step S46: When it is other than big hit (step S45a: No), next, the main control CPU 72 executes an effect determination process at the time of acquisition for the second special symbol. This process determines the result of the internal lottery in advance (before the start of the change) based on the big hit determination random number and the big hit symbol random number of the second special symbol obtained in the previous steps S42 to S44, respectively, It is for judging. In this process, the result of prior determination of the second special symbol is set to the lower byte of the special symbol variation pattern destination determination command.

  Step S47: When the acquisition effect determination process is executed, the main control CPU 72 then sets the upper bytes (for example, “B9H”) of the special symbol variation pattern destination determination command. This high-order byte data describes that the command type is “for special figure destination determination effect relating to the second special symbol”. Similarly, since the lower byte of the special symbol variation pattern destination determination command is set in the previous acquisition effect determination processing (step S46), for example, one word is synthesized by combining the upper byte with the lower byte. A long command will be generated.

  Step S48: Next, the main control CPU 72 sets an effect command for increasing the number of working memories with respect to the second special symbol. Here, a one-word-length production command in which the increased number of working memories (for example, “01H” to “04H”) is added to the lower byte with respect to the preceding value (for example, “BCH”) representing the command type. Is generated. Similarly, for the second special symbol, the second place of the lower byte is set to “0” by default to indicate that the value is “a result of an increase in the number of working memories (change information)”. it can. The preceding value “BCH” is a value indicating that the current effect command is a working memory number command for the second special symbol.

  Step S49: The main control CPU 72 executes an effect command output setting process for the second special symbol. As a result, a special symbol variation pattern destination determination command, an effect command for increasing the number of operating memories, a start opening winning sound control command, a second special symbol winning command, and the like are transmitted to the effect control device 124 regarding the second special symbol ( Memory number notification means). When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the switch input event process (FIG. 12).

[Normal symbol memory update processing]
FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the normal symbol storage update process (step S24 in FIG. 10). Hereinafter, the procedure of the normal symbol memory update process will be described in order.

  Step S50: Here, first, the main control CPU 72 refers to the value of the normal symbol operating memory number counter to check whether or not the operating memory number is less than the maximum value (for example, 4). The working memory number counter represents the number (number of sets) of hit determination random numbers, hit design random numbers, and the like stored in the random number storage area of the RAM 76. Here, the random number storage area of the RAM 76 is divided into four sections normally used for symbols, and each section can store one hit-determined random number and one hit symbol random number as a set. At this time, if the value of the working memory number counter corresponding to the normal symbol has reached the maximum value (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the switch input event processing (FIG. 12). On the other hand, if the value of the working memory number counter is less than the maximum value (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S51.

  Step S51: The main control CPU 72 adds one normal symbol operation memory number. The normal symbol operation memory number counter is stored in the operation memory number area of the RAM 76, for example, and the main control CPU 72 increments (+1) the value. Based on the counter value added here, the lighting state of the normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a is controlled by the display output management process (step S210 in FIG. 11).

  Step S52: The main control CPU 72 acquires a winning random number value corresponding to the normal symbol from the random number generator 75 through the sampling circuit 77 (normal symbol acquisition means). The random value is acquired by specifying the pin address of the random number generator 75. In the case where the main control CPU 72 performs 8-bit processing, the address designation is performed twice for each upper byte and lower byte. When the main control CPU 72 reads the hit random number value from the designated address, it saves it at the transfer destination address as the hit determined random number corresponding to the normal symbol.

  Step S53: Next, the main control CPU 72 acquires a winning symbol random number value corresponding to the normal symbol from the winning symbol random number counter area of the RAM 76. The acquisition of the random number value is also performed by designating the address of the winning design random number counter area. When the main control CPU 72 reads the winning symbol random number value from the designated address, it saves it as a winning symbol random number corresponding to the normal symbol at the transfer destination address.

  Step S54: Further, the main control CPU 72 acquires a variation pattern determination random number from the variation random number counter area of the RAM 76 as a random value related to the variation condition of the normal symbol (ordinary symbol variation time determination element acquisition means). Similarly, these random number values are acquired by designating the address of the random number counter area for variation. Then, when the main control CPU 72 obtains each variation pattern determination random number from the designated address, it saves them at the transfer destination address.

  Step S55: The main control CPU 72 transfers the saved hit determination random number, hit symbol random number, and variation pattern determination random number to the random number storage area corresponding to the normal symbol, and stores these random numbers as a set in an empty section in the area ( Normal symbol lottery element storage means, variable time determination element storage means). The order (for example, first to fourth) is set in the plurality of sections. If all the first to fourth sections are empty at this stage, the random numbers are stored in order from the first section. Alternatively, if the first section is already filled and the other second to fourth sections are empty, the random numbers are stored in order from the second section. Note that the random number storage area is read out in a FIFO (First In First Out) format.

  Step S57: The main control CPU 72 executes an effect determination process at the time of acquisition for the normal symbol (variable time destination determination means). This process determines the result of normal symbol lottery and variation time in advance (before the start of variation) based on the normal symbol hit random number, hit symbol random number, and fluctuation pattern decision random number obtained in the previous steps S52 to S54, respectively. Thus, the content of the effect is determined (so-called “look ahead”). In this process, the result of the prior determination is set to the lower byte of the normal symbol variation pattern destination determination command.

  Step S58: When the acquisition effect determination process is executed, the main control CPU 72 next sets the upper bytes (for example, “B9H”) of the normal symbol variation pattern destination determination command for the normal symbol. This upper byte data describes that the command type is “for special figure destination determination effect relating to normal symbols”. In addition, since the lower byte portion of the normal symbol variation pattern destination determination command (information about whether or not it is changed and information about the variation time) is set in the previous acquisition effect determination processing (step S57), the upper byte is assigned to the lower byte here. By combining, for example, a command having a length of 1 word is generated.

  Step S58a: Next, the main control CPU 72 sets an effect command for increasing the number of working memories for the normal symbol. Specifically, for the preceding value (for example, “CCH”) representing the command type, the number of working memories after the increase (for example, “01H” to “04H”) is added to the lower byte. A production command is generated. At this time, for the lower byte, the second place is set to “0” by default to indicate that the value is “result (change information) due to increase in number of working memories”. That is, if the lower byte is “01H”, it indicates that the current working memory number has become “01H” as a result of increasing by one from the previous working memory number “00H”. Similarly, if the lower byte is “02H” to “04H”, it is increased by one from the previous working memory numbers “01H” to “03H”, so that the current working memory number is “02H” to “02H”. 04H ". The preceding value “CCH” is a value indicating that the current production command is a working memory number command for a normal symbol.

  Step S59: Then, the main control CPU 72 executes an effect command output setting process for the normal symbol. This process is for transmitting the normal symbol variation pattern destination determination command generated in the previous step S58 and the effect command for increasing the number of working memories generated in step S58a to the effect control device 124 (memory number). Notification means).

  When the above procedure is completed or the normal symbol operation memory number has reached 4 (step S50: No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the switch input event process (FIG. 12).

[Special design game processing]
Next, the details of the special symbol game process executed in the interrupt management process (FIG. 11) will be described. FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing a configuration example of the special symbol game process. The special symbol game process includes an execution selection process (step S1000), a special symbol change pre-process (step S2000), a special symbol change process (step S3000), a special symbol stop display process (step S4000), and a variable winning device management process. This is a configuration including a subroutine (program module) group of (Step S5000). First, the basic flow of the special symbol game process will be described along each process.

  Step S1000: In the execution selection process, the main control CPU 72 selects the jump destination of the process to be executed next (any one of steps S2000 to S5000) from the “jump table”. For example, the main control CPU 72 sets the program address of the process to be executed next as the jump destination address, and sets the end of the special symbol game process as the return address in the stack pointer.

  Which process is selected as the next jump destination differs depending on the progress of the process performed so far (special symbol game management status). For example, if the special symbol has not yet started changing display (special symbol game management status: 00H), the main control CPU 72 selects the special symbol variation pre-processing (step S2000) as the next jump destination. On the other hand, if the special symbol variation pre-processing has already been completed (special symbol game management status: 01H), the main control CPU 72 selects the special symbol variation processing (step S3000) as the next jump destination, and the special symbol variation is in progress. If the process has been completed (special symbol game management status: 02H), the special symbol stop displaying process (step S4000) is selected as the next jump destination. In this embodiment, the jump destination address is specified by the “jump table” and the process is selected. However, apart from such a selection method, a “process flag”, a “process selection flag”, or the like is used. There is also a known programming example in which the CPU selects a process to be executed next. In such a programming example, the CPU CALLs each process in a single way, and at the top step, the conditional branch (continuation / return) is performed by referring to the flag one by one. However, in the selection method of this embodiment, the main control There is no need for the CPU 72 to call each process one by one.

  Step S2000: In the special symbol variation pre-processing, the main control CPU 72 performs an operation to prepare conditions for starting the variation display of the special symbol. The specific processing content will be described later using another flowchart.

  Step S3000: In the special symbol variation processing, the main control CPU 72 performs drive control of the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35 while counting the variation timer. Specifically, an ON or OFF drive signal (1 byte data) is output for each segment and dot (0th to 7th) of the 7-segment LED. The pattern of the drive signal changes with the passage of time, whereby a special symbol is displayed in a variable manner.

  Step S4000: In the special symbol stop display process, the main control CPU 72 controls the drive of the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35. Similarly, an ON or OFF drive signal is output for each segment and dot of the 7-segment LED. However, the pattern of the drive signal is constant, whereby a special symbol is stopped and displayed.

  Step S5000: The variable winning device management process is selected when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the big win or small win mode (a mode other than non-winning) in the previous special symbol stop display process. The big hit game or the small hit game is started in accordance with the stop display of the special symbol.

[Big hit game]
For example, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the form of a big hit of 15 rounds, an opportunity to shift from the normal state until then to the big hit gaming state (a special gaming state advantageous to the player) occurs. During the big hit game, the jump destination is set in the variable winning device management process in the previous execution selection process (step S1000), and the special symbol variation display is not performed. In the variable winning device management process, the first large winning opening solenoid 90 is excited for a predetermined time (for example, 29 seconds or until 10 winnings are counted) for a preset number of continuous operations (for example, 15 times). Thus, the first variable winning device 30 is opened and closed in a predetermined pattern (continuous operation of the special electric accessory). During this time, the first variable winning device 30 is made to win game balls in a concentrated manner, thereby giving the player an opportunity to collect a lot of prize balls (special game execution means). Note that the opening and closing operation of the first variable prize-winning device 30 at the time of the big hit is referred to as “round”, and if the total number of continuous operations is 15 times, these may be collectively referred to as “15 rounds”. In the present embodiment, for the 15 round big hit, a plurality of winning types (winning symbols) are provided therein. In addition to the 15 round big hits, a plurality of types of 4 round big hits and 2 round big hits may be provided.

  Further, when the main control CPU 72 sets a large winning opening opening pattern (number of rounds, number of opening / closing operations per round, opening time, etc.) in the variable winning device management process, the main control CPU 72 opens / closes the first variable winning device 30 for one round. Each time the operation is completed, the value of the round number counter is incremented by one. The value of the round number counter is stored in the count area of the RAM 76 with an initial value of 0, for example. Further, the main control CPU 72 generates a round number command representing the value of the round number counter. The round number command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process (step S212 in FIG. 11). When the value of the round number counter reaches the set number of continuous operations, the main control CPU 72 ends the big hit game (big player) only for that round.

  When the big hit game ends, the main control CPU 72 changes the state after the big hit game (time reduction state) based on the game state flag (time reduction function operation flag) (time reduction state transition means). In the “time reduction state”, the time reduction function is activated, the lottery probability of the normal symbol operation lottery is set from the normal probability (low probability) to the high probability, the variable symbol variation time is shortened and the variable start prize is awarded The opening time of the device 28 is extended and the number of times of opening increases (so-called electric Chu support is performed).

[Small hits]
Further, in the present embodiment, small wins are provided as winning types other than non-winning. When winning a small winning game, a small winning game is performed separately from the big winning game, and the second variable winning device 31 is opened and closed (special game executing means). For example, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in a small hit state, an opportunity to shift from the normal state until then to the small hit state (special game state advantageous to the player) occurs. During the small hit game, the jump destination is set in the variable winning device management process in the previous execution selection process (step S1000), and the special symbol variation display is not performed. In the variable winning device management process, the second large winning opening solenoid 97 is set for a predetermined time (for example, 1.8 seconds or until 10 winnings are counted) for a preset number of operations (for example, one or more times). As a result, the second variable winning device 31 is opened and closed with a predetermined pattern (operation of the special electric accessory). During this time, the player is given an opportunity to acquire a certain amount of prize balls (special game execution means) by allowing the second variable prize winning device 31 to win the game balls intensively.

  Further, in the variable winning device management process during the small hit game, the specific area solenoid 99 is excited for a predetermined time (for example, 2 seconds) for a predetermined number of operations (for example, 3 times), thereby the specific area slide member. 31c opens and closes with a predetermined pattern. By allowing the game ball to pass through the specific area 31x during this period, the player is given an opportunity to start a big hit game. That is, whether or not to start the big hit game in the variable winning device management process is determined by whether or not the game ball passes through the specific area 31x during the small hit game. In the present embodiment, for the small hit, a plurality of winning types (winning symbols) are provided therein, and when the game ball passes through the specific area 31x, a big hit game corresponding to the winning type is started.

  In addition, even if the small hit game is finished without the game ball passing through the specific area 31x, the “time reduction function” does not operate, so the privilege to shift to the “time reduction state” is not given (for that reason) (This is not a precondition for.) (Except when the upper limit is reached).

[Multiple winning types]
In the present embodiment, “16 round big hit” is provided in addition to the above “15 round big hit” as a plurality of winning types. “15 round big hit” starts when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the big win mode, whereas “16 round big hit” is displayed when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the small hit mode and a special area is displayed during the small hit game. It starts when a game ball passes 31x. In addition, the operation of the second variable winning device 31 corresponds to the first round of the 16 round big hits, and the operation of the first variable winning device 30 corresponds to the remaining 15 rounds. However, in this embodiment, jackpots other than 16 rounds and 15 rounds may be provided.

  The winning type corresponds to the type of the first special symbol or the second special symbol that is stopped and displayed at the time of winning. For example, “15 round jackpot” corresponds to jackpots from “first winning symbol” to “sixth winning symbol”, and “16 round jackpot” corresponds to jackpots from “seventh winning symbol” to “9th winning symbol” ( Corresponding to the big hit when passing through the specific area 31x). Therefore, hereinafter, the “winning type” will be appropriately referred to as “winning symbol”.

[First winning symbol, fifth winning symbol]
When the first special symbol is stopped and displayed in the “first winning symbol” mode or the second special symbol is stopped and displayed in the “fifth winning symbol” mode in the previous special symbol stop display processing, An opportunity to shift from the normal state until the big hit game state occurs (special game execution means). In this case, the first grand prize opening is opened once each over a sufficiently long time (for example, a maximum opening time of 29.0 seconds) from the first round, and this continues until the fourth round. From the fifth round to the fifteenth round (final round), the first big prize opening is opened once each for a short time (for example, a maximum opening time of 0.2 seconds). These “first winning symbol” and “fifth winning symbol” jackpot games can give a player four rounds of award (prize balls) (special value special games). Further, when a predetermined number of times (for example, 10 times = 10 game balls) is generated within one round, the first grand prize opening is closed without waiting for the longest opening time to elapse. Then, for example, by operating the “time shortening function” after the big hit game is finished, a privilege to shift to the “time shortening state” is given to the player as a result.

[Second winning design]
When the first special symbol is stopped and displayed in the “second winning symbol” mode in the previous special symbol stop display processing, an opportunity to shift from the normal state to the big hit gaming state occurs (special game execution) means). In this case, from the first round to the fifteenth round (final round), the first big prize opening is opened once each for a short time (for example, a maximum opening time of 0.2 seconds). Since the game ends in an extremely short time compared to the big win game of the “first winning symbol” or the “third winning symbol”, there is almost no winning in the first big winning opening. Accordingly, the jackpot game of the “second winning symbol” is completed within a short period of time without giving a substantial ball (prize ball) to the player. Instead, when the winning type corresponds to the “second winning symbol”, for example, by operating the “time reduction function” after the jackpot game is ended, a privilege to shift to the “time reduction state” as a result of the game Granted to a person.

  Such a “second winning symbol” gives the player the impression that a “time reduction state” has occurred suddenly without going through a clear big hit game. Here, an example is given in which the opening time is set to an extremely short time, but even if it is a big win game of the “second winning symbol”, for example, a player will receive two rounds of award (prize ball). It is good also as setting sufficient open time which becomes possible to provide to. In this case, the player can enjoy the privilege of shifting to the “time reduction state” after giving a privilege of paying out a certain amount of prize balls.

[3rd winning symbol, 6th winning symbol]
In the previous special symbol stop display process, if the first special symbol is stopped and displayed in the “third winning symbol” mode or the second special symbol is stopped and displayed in the “six winning symbol” mode, An opportunity to shift from the normal state until the big hit game state occurs (special game execution means). In this case, a special winning opening is opened once over a sufficiently long time (for example, an opening time of 29.0 seconds at the longest) from the first round, and this continues until the eighth round. From the ninth round to the fifteenth round (final round), the first big prize opening is opened once each for a short time (for example, a maximum opening time of 0.2 seconds). These “third winning symbol” and “six winning symbol” jackpot games can be given to the player with 8 rounds of award (prize ball) (special value special game). Further, when a predetermined number of times (for example, 10 times = 10 game balls) is generated within one round, the first grand prize opening is closed without waiting for the longest opening time to elapse. Since the “time reduction function” is not activated after the big hit game ends, the game state (internal state) is set to the “normal state (non-time reduction state)” as a result.

[4th winning design]
When the second special symbol is stopped and displayed in the “fourth winning symbol” mode in the previous special symbol stop display process, an opportunity to shift from the normal state to the big hit gaming state occurs (special game execution) means). In this case, the first grand prize opening will be opened once for a sufficiently long time from the first round (for example, 29.0 seconds at the longest), and this will continue until the 15th round (final round). To do. In this “fourth winning symbol” jackpot game, it is possible to give 15 rounds of balls (prize balls) to the player (special value special game). Further, when a predetermined number of times (for example, 10 times = 10 game balls) is generated within one round, the first grand prize opening is closed without waiting for the longest opening time to elapse. Then, for example, by operating the “time shortening function” after the big hit game is finished, a privilege to shift to the “time shortening state” is given to the player as a result.

[Seventh winning symbol]
In the previous special symbol stop display process, if the second special symbol is stopped and displayed in the “seventh winning symbol” mode, an opportunity to shift from the normal state to the small hit state occurs, When the game ball passes through the specific area 31x during the game, an opportunity to shift from the small hit to the big hit gaming state occurs. The first grand prize opening is opened once each over a sufficiently long time (for example, a maximum opening time of 29.0 seconds) from the second round, and this continues until the 16th round (final round). This “seventh winning symbol” jackpot game allows players to be awarded 15 rounds (prize balls) (special value special games). Further, when a predetermined number of times (for example, 10 times = 10 game balls) is generated within one round, the first grand prize opening is closed without waiting for the longest opening time to elapse. Then, for example, by operating the “time shortening function” after the big hit game is finished, a privilege to shift to the “time shortening state” is given to the player as a result.

[Eighth winning design]
In the previous special symbol stop display process, if the second special symbol is stopped and displayed in the “eighth winning symbol” mode, an opportunity to shift from the normal state to the small hit state occurs, When the game ball passes through the specific area 31x during the game, an opportunity to shift from the small hit to the big hit gaming state occurs. In this case, the first grand prize opening is opened once each over a sufficiently long time (for example, a maximum opening time of 29.0 seconds) from the second round, and this continues until the fifth round. From the 6th round to the 16th round (final round), the first big prize opening is opened once for a short period of time (for example, a maximum opening time of 0.2 seconds). This “eighth winning design” jackpot game can give four rounds of award (prize balls) to the player (special value special game). Further, when a predetermined number of times (for example, 10 times = 10 game balls) is generated within one round, the first grand prize opening is closed without waiting for the longest opening time to elapse. Then, for example, by operating the “time shortening function” after the big hit game is finished, a privilege to shift to the “time shortening state” is given to the player as a result.

[9th winning design]
In the previous special symbol stop display process, when the second special symbol is stopped and displayed in the “9th winning symbol” mode, an opportunity to shift from the normal state to the small hit state occurs, When the game ball passes through the specific area 31x during the game, an opportunity to shift from the small hit to the big hit gaming state occurs. In this case, the special winning opening is opened once each over a sufficiently long time (for example, a maximum opening time of 29.0 seconds) from the second round, and this continues until the ninth round. From the 10th round to the 16th round (final round), the first big prize opening is opened once for a short period of time (for example, a maximum opening time of 0.2 seconds). In this “9th winning symbol” jackpot game, it is possible to give out 8 rounds (prize balls) to the player (special value special game). Further, when a predetermined number of times (for example, 10 times = 10 game balls) is generated within one round, the first grand prize opening is closed without waiting for the longest opening time to elapse. Since the “time reduction function” is not activated after the big hit game ends, the game state (internal state) is set to the “normal state (non-time reduction state)” as a result.

  In any case, if the winning symbol is one of the above “first winning symbol”, “second winning symbol”, “fourth winning symbol”, or “fifth winning symbol”, after the jackpot game ends A privilege for shifting the internal state to the “time reduction state” is given to the player. In addition, in the “time reduction state”, an internal lottery win is won, and the winning symbol at that time is “first winning symbol”, “second winning symbol”, “fourth winning symbol”, or “fifth winning symbol” ", The" time reduction state "continues (restarts) even after the jackpot game ends. On the other hand, if the winning symbol corresponds to the “third winning symbol” or the “six winning symbol”, the internal state is shifted to the “normal state (non-time shortened state)” after the jackpot game is over, and the player is not given a privilege. . In addition, if the internal lottery is won in the “time reduction state” and the winning symbol at that time corresponds to the “third winning symbol” or the “six winning symbol”, the “normal state (non-time)” Abbreviated state) ”.

  In addition, during the small hit game, the game ball passes through the specific area 31x and the big hit game is started, and the winning symbol corresponds to the above “seventh winning symbol” or “eighth winning symbol” regarding the stop display of the second special symbol. Then, after the jackpot game ends, a privilege is given to the player to shift the internal state to the “time reduction state”. Also, in the “time reduction state”, the internal lottery is won in a small win, and the winning symbol at that time corresponds to either “seventh winning symbol” or “eighth winning symbol”, and the specific area 31x during the small bonus game When the game ball passes through and the big hit game is started, the “time reduction state” is continued (restarted) after the big hit game is finished.

  On the other hand, if the game ball passes through the specific area 31x during the small hit game and the big hit game is started and the winning symbol corresponds to the above "9th winning symbol" with respect to the stop display of the second special symbol, The state is shifted to the “normal state (non-time shortened state)”, and a privilege is not given to the player. Also, in the “time reduction state”, when the internal lottery is won by the small win, the game ball passes through the specific area 31x and the big win game is started, and the winning symbol at the time of the stop display corresponds to the “9th winning symbol”, the big hit After the game is over, it is set to “normal state (non-time shortened state)”.

  In this way, a game in which the internal lottery is won and corresponds to a small hit, and if a special area is passed during the small hit game, a time shortening function is given a predetermined number of times according to the type of the winning symbol after the big hit game ends The machine is called a so-called 1 type 2 mixed type gaming machine.

[Special symbol change pre-treatment]
FIG. 17 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the special symbol variation pre-processing. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along each procedure.

  Step S2100: First, the main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the first special symbol working memory number or the second special symbol working memory number remains (greater than 0). This confirmation can be made with reference to the value of the working memory number counter stored in the RAM 76. When the number of working memories of both the first special symbol and the second special symbol is 0 (No), the main control CPU 72 executes a demonstration setting process in step S2500.

  Step S2500: In this process, the main control CPU 72 generates a demonstration effect command. The demonstration effect command is output to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process (step S212 in FIG. 11). When the demo setting process is executed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game process. At the time of return, it returns to the end address as described above (and so on).

  On the other hand, if the value of the working memory number counter of either the first special symbol or the second special symbol is greater than 0 (Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S2200.

  Step S2200: The main control CPU 72 executes a special symbol storage area shift process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 preferentially reads out the lottery random numbers (big hit determination random number, big hit symbol random number, etc.) stored in the random number storage area of the RAM 76 and that corresponds to the second special symbol. At this time, if random numbers are stored in two or more sections (only the first special symbol is applicable), the main control CPU 72 reads out the random numbers in order from the first section and deletes (consumes) the random numbers. Move (shift) to the previous section one by one. The read random number is stored, for example, in another temporary storage area. When the random number corresponding to the second special symbol is not stored, the main control CPU 72 reads the random number corresponding to the first special symbol and stores it in the temporary storage area. Each random number stored in the temporary storage area is used for internal lottery in the next jackpot determination process. As a result, in the present embodiment, the variable display of the second special symbol is preferentially performed over the first special symbol. In addition, the program which reads a random number in the order memorize | stored simply may be sufficient, without providing the priority order according to such special symbols. Further, in this processing, the main control CPU 72 subtracts one value from the working memory number counter (the one of the first special symbol or the second special symbol, which has been subjected to the random number shift) stored in the RAM 76, and subtracts it. The later value is set to “Number of working memories at start of change”. Thereby, the display mode of the number stored by the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a or the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a changes (decreases by 1) in the display output management process (step S210 in FIG. 11). . When the procedure so far is finished, the main control CPU 72 then executes step S2300.

[Special symbol memory area shift processing]
FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the special symbol storage area shift process. When the value of the operation memory counter corresponding to the first special symbol or the second special symbol is larger than “0” in the previous special symbol fluctuation pre-processing (step S2100: Yes in FIG. 17), the main control CPU 72 Executes this special symbol storage area shift process. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along each procedure.

  Step S2210: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the oldest one of the existing working memories corresponds to the first special symbol. That is, when the storage area of the RAM 76 is accessed and the oldest working memory among them does not correspond to the first special symbol but corresponds to the second special symbol (No), the main control CPU 72 The process proceeds to step S2212.

  Step S2212: The main control CPU 72 designates the second special symbol as a special symbol for shifting the storage area. This designation is performed, for example, by setting “02H” as the target symbol designation value.

  Step S2214: On the other hand, if the oldest working memory corresponds to the first special symbol (Step S2210: Yes), the main control CPU 72 designates the first special symbol as the special symbol to be shifted in the storage area. . The designation in this case is performed, for example, by setting “01H” as the target symbol designation value.

  Step S2216: The main control CPU 72 shifts the random number storage area of the RAM 76 for the target special symbol designated in either step S2212 or step S2214. The details of the specific processing are as already described in the previous special symbol change pre-processing.

  Step S2218: Next, the main control CPU 72 subtracts the value of the operation memory counter for the target special symbol. For example, if the target to shift the current storage area is the second special symbol, the main control CPU 72 subtracts (-1) the value of the working memory counter corresponding to the second special symbol.

  Step S2220: Then, the main control CPU 72 sets “the number of operation memories at the start of fluctuation” from the value of the operation memory counter after the subtraction. Here, for both the first special symbol and the second special symbol, the value of the operation memory counter may be added and the “number of operation memories at the start of change” may be set.

Step S2222: Further, the main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the special symbol to be shifted in the current storage area is the second special symbol.
Step S2224: When the target is the second special symbol (step S2222: Yes), the main control CPU 72 sets the working command when the number of working memories is reduced for the second special symbol. The effect command set here is also generated as a one-word-length command, but its structure is in contrast to the above-described “effect command when increasing the number of working memories”. That is, the production command at the time when the number of working memories decreases is lower than the value of lower bytes (for example, “00H” to “03H” that represents the number of working memories after reduction with respect to the preceding value (for example, “BCH”) of the upper bytes representing the command type. )) And an additional value (for example, “10H”) meaning “decrease in the number of working memories accompanying consumption” is further added (logical sum) to the lower byte value. Therefore, for the lower byte, the second value becomes “1” by ORing the added value “10H”, and this value represents “the result (change information) due to the decrease in the number of working memories”. It will be a thing. In other words, if the lower byte of the command is “13H”, it means that the number of working memories up to the previous time “4” (command notation is “14H”) is reduced by one, so that the number of working memories this time is “3” (command The notation is “13H”). Similarly, if the lower byte is “12H” to “10H”, it means that the number of working memories “3” to “1” up to the previous time (command notation is “13H” to “11H”) is decreased by one respectively. This indicates that the current operation memory number is “2” to “0” (command notation is “12H” to “10H”). The preceding value “BCH” is a value indicating that the current effect command is the working memory number command for the second special symbol.

  Step S2226: If the current target is the first special symbol (Step S2222: No), the main control CPU 72 sets an effect command for reducing the number of working memories regarding the first special symbol. The command in this case is the same as the above except that the preceding value is a value (for example, “BBH”) indicating that the previous value is the working memory number command for the first special symbol.

Step S2228: Then, the main control CPU 72 executes an effect command output process. This process is for transmitting the production command for reducing the number of working memories set in the previous step S2224 or step S2226 to the production control device 124 (memory number notification means).
When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol variation pre-processing (FIG. 17).

[Refer to Fig. 17: Special symbol change pre-processing]
Step S2300: The main control CPU 72 executes a big hit determination process (internal lottery). In this process, the main control CPU 72 first sets a range of the jackpot value and determines whether or not the read random number value is included in this range (first special symbol lottery execution means, second special symbol lottery execution). means). If the random value read at this time is included in the range of the big hit value, the main control CPU 72 sets the big hit flag (01H), and then proceeds to step S2400.

  When the above big hit flag is not set, the main control CPU 72 sets the range of the small hit value next in the same big hit determination process, and determines whether or not the read random number value is included in this range (first Special symbol lottery execution means, second special symbol lottery execution means). The “small hit” here is other than non-winning (out of), but is different from “big hit”. In other words, “big hit” generates an opportunity (game milestone) to shift to the “time reduction state”, but “small hit” does not generate such an opportunity. “Small Win” is positioned as satisfying the condition for operating only the second variable winning device 31 (the condition for operating the condition device is not satisfied). Further, when the game ball passes through the specific area 31x during the “small hit”, it is positioned as being developed into the “big hit” (conditions for operating the condition device are satisfied). In any case, if the read random number value is included in the range of the small hit value, the main control CPU 72 sets the small hit flag, and then proceeds to step S2400. As described above, in the present embodiment, as the hit range corresponding to other than the non-winning, the range of the big hit value and the small hit value is defined in advance in the program. Each of them may be written in the ROM 74, read out, and the big hit determination may be performed while comparing with the random value.

  Here, as a specific example, in the present embodiment, in the special symbol internal lottery, when the special symbol is the first special symbol, the probability of winning the big hit is set to about 1/222, and the small bonus is won. It is set to not. In the case of the second special symbol, the probability of winning the big hit is set to about the same 1/222, and the probability of winning the big hit is set to about 221/222 (1 / 1.1). (Second special symbol lottery result limiting means). Therefore, when the internal lottery relating to the second special symbol is executed in the time shortening state, it means that the player wins almost a small hit. In order to satisfy these jackpot winning probabilities and jackpot winning probabilities, the jackpot value range and the jackpot value range are set by the main control CPU 72 and compared with the read random number value.

  Step S2400: The main control CPU 72 determines whether or not a value (01H) is set for the big hit flag in the previous big hit determination process. If the value (01H) is not set in the jackpot flag (No), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S2402.

  Step S2402: The main control CPU 72 determines whether or not a value (01H) is set in the small hit flag in the previous big hit determination process. If the value (01H) is not set in the small hit flag (No), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S2404. The main control CPU 72 may determine the big hit (for example, 01H is set) or the small hit (for example, 0AH is set) according to the value of the common hit flag without separately preparing the big hit flag and the small hit flag.

  Step S2404: The main control CPU 72 executes an off-time stop symbol determination process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 sets stop symbol number data at the time of disconnection by the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35. Further, the main control CPU 72 generates a stop symbol command and a lottery result command (at the time of losing) to be transmitted to the effect control device 124. These commands are transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process (step S212 in FIG. 11).

  In this embodiment, since the 7-segment LED is used for the first special symbol display device 34 and the second special symbol display device 35, for example, the display mode of the stop symbol at the time of disconnection is always set to one segment (the center It is possible to fix the stop symbol number data to one value (for example, 64H) by keeping only the lighting display of the bar "-"). In this case, the storage capacity used in the program can be reduced, the processing load on the main control CPU 72 can be reduced, and the processing speed can be improved.

  Step S2405: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a deviation variation pattern determination process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the fluctuation pattern number at the time of deviation for the special symbol (fluctuation pattern selection means). The variation pattern number is used to distinguish the variation display type (pattern) of the special symbol or to correspond to the variation time required for the variation display. Information regarding the variation pattern of the selected special symbol is transmitted to the effect control device as a variation pattern command (the same applies to the ordinary symbol).

  Here, since the fluctuation time at the time of disconnection varies depending on whether or not it is the above “time reduction state”, in this process, the main control CPU 72 loads the gaming state flag and the current state is “time reduction state”. It is confirmed whether or not it is “state”. In the “time reduction state”, the special symbol variation display is set to a certain time (details will be described later). In addition, even when not in the “time shortening state”, the fluctuation time at the time of losing is, for example, the “variable display start operation memory number (0 to 3) set in step S2200”, except when the fluctuation for executing the reach effect is performed. (For example, the number of operating memories at the start of variable display is 0 to about 12.5 seconds, the number of operating memories at the start of variable display is 1 to about 8 seconds, the number of operating memories at the start of variable display 2 → about 5 seconds, number of working memory at the start of variable display 3 → about 2.5 seconds). Note that the symbol stop display time at the time of disconnection is constant (for example, about 0.5 seconds) regardless of the variation pattern. Then, the main control CPU 72 sets the value of the determined variation time (at the time of disconnection) in the variation timer, and sets the value of the stop display time at the time of disconnection in the stop symbol display timer.

  The above steps S2404 and S2405 are control procedures when the big hit determination result is out of place (in the case other than non-winning), but the determination result is a big hit (step S2400: Yes) or a small hit (step S2402: Yes). The main control CPU 72 executes the following procedure. First, the case of jackpot will be described.

  Step S2410: The main control CPU 72 executes a big hit stop symbol determination process (winning type determination means). In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the type of the winning symbol (stop symbol number at the time of jackpot) for each special symbol (first special symbol or second special symbol) based on the jackpot symbol random number. The relationship between the jackpot symbol random number value and the type of winning symbol is defined in advance in the special symbol determination data table (winning type defining means). For this reason, the main control CPU 72 can determine the type of winning symbol based on the big hit symbol random number from the stored contents by referring to the big hit symbol stop selection table in the big hit symbol stop determination process.

[Winning pattern at the time of big hit]
In the present embodiment, three types of winning symbols that are selectively determined at the time of a big hit are prepared according to the types of special symbols. The three types of breakdown for the first winning symbol are “first winning symbol” to “third winning symbol”, and the three types of breakdown for the second winning symbol are “fourth winning symbol” to “sixth winning symbol”. Is. Each of the six types of winning symbols may further include a plurality of winning symbols. For example, in the case of “first winning symbol”, “first winning symbol A”, “first winning symbol B”, “first winning symbol C”, and so on.

  Moreover, in this embodiment, the selection ratio of the winning symbol selected at the time of the big winning of the internal lottery corresponding to the first special symbol and the second special symbol is different. For this reason, the main control CPU 72 distinguishes the winning symbol to be selected depending on whether the result of the big hit this time corresponds to the first special symbol or the second special symbol.

[First Special Symbol Big Stop Stop Symbol Selection Table]
FIG. 19 is a diagram showing a configuration column of the first special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table. When the result of the big hit this time corresponds to the first special symbol, the main control CPU 72 refers to the first special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table (winning type defining means) to determine the type of the winning symbol.

  In the first special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table, the left column shows the distribution value for each winning symbol, and each distribution value “35”, “15”, “50” is set to 100. Corresponds to the ratio of cases. In the second column from the left, “first winning symbol”, “second winning symbol”, and “third winning symbol” corresponding to each distribution value are shown. That is, at the time of the big hit corresponding to the first special symbol, the ratio of selecting the “first winning symbol” is 35/100 (= 35%), and the proportion of selecting the “second winning symbol” is 100 minutes. 15 (= 15%), and the ratio at which the “third winning symbol” is selected is 50/100 (= 50%). The size of each distribution value corresponds to the selection ratio for each winning symbol using a jackpot symbol random number.

  In any case, if the current jackpot result corresponds to the first special symbol, the main control CPU 72 performs a selection lottery based on the jackpot symbol random number, and the selection ratio shown in the first special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table To select the winning symbol selectively. Further, in the first special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table, for example, 2-byte command data is defined as a stop symbol command at the time of winning as shown in the third column from the left. The stop symbol command is described by, for example, a combination of MODE value-EVENT value, and among these, the MODE value “B1H” of the upper byte is selected when the winning symbol of this time is the big hit of the first special symbol. Represents. Further, the EVENT values “01H”, “02H”, and “03H” in the lower byte represent the types of winning symbols corresponding to each other in the selection table. For this reason, for example, if the result of the big hit this time corresponds to the first special symbol and “first winning symbol” is selected as the winning symbol, the stop symbol command at the time of winning is described as “B1H01H” It will be.

  As described above, when the selected symbol is selected from the first special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table, the main control CPU 72 generates a stop symbol command at that time. The generated stop symbol command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process described above, for example. Further, the main control CPU 72 determines a big hit stop symbol number for the first special symbol based on the selected winning symbol.

[Time reduction]
In the right column of the first special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table, the value of the number of time reductions (limit number) given after the end of the big hit game is shown. In the present embodiment, when the “first winning symbol” or “second winning symbol” is met, the number of time reductions is given five times. On the other hand, when it corresponds to the “third winning symbol”, the time reduction number is not given.

[2nd special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table]
FIG. 20 is a diagram showing a configuration column of the second special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table. The main control CPU 72 determines the type of winning symbol with reference to the second special symbol big-hit stop symbol selection table (winning type defining means) when the result of the big jackpot corresponds to the second special symbol.

  Also in the second special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table, the left column shows the distribution value for each winning symbol, and each distribution value “45”, “5”, “50” indicates the denominator as 100. This corresponds to the ratio of Similarly, in the second column from the left, “fourth winning symbol”, “fifth winning symbol”, and “sixth winning symbol” corresponding to each distribution value are shown. That is, at the big hit corresponding to the second special symbol, the ratio of the “fourth winning symbol” being selected is 45/100 (= 45%), and the proportion of the “fifth winning symbol” being selected is It is 5/100 (= 5%), and the ratio of selecting the “sixth winning symbol” is 50/100 (= 50%).

  When the result of this big hit corresponds to the second special symbol, the main control CPU 72 performs a selection lottery based on the big hit symbol random number, and selects the winning symbol with the selection ratio shown in the second special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table To decide. Similarly, in the second special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table, for example, 2-byte command data is defined as the stop symbol command at the time of winning as shown in the third column from the left. Again, the stop symbol command is described by the combination of the above MODE value-EVENT value. Among these, the MODE value “B2H” of the upper byte is the one selected when the winning symbol of the second special symbol is the current winning symbol. It represents that. Further, the EVENT values “01H”, “02H”, and “03H” in the lower byte represent the types of winning symbols corresponding to each other in the selection table. Therefore, for example, if the result of the big hit this time corresponds to the second special symbol, and “fourth winning symbol” is selected as the winning symbol, the stop symbol command will be described as “B2H01H”. .

  As described above, when the selected symbol is selected from the second special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table, the main control CPU 72 generates a stop symbol command at that time. The generated stop symbol command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process described above, for example. Further, the main control CPU 72 determines a big hit stop symbol number for the second special symbol based on the selected winning symbol.

[Time reduction]
The fourth column from the left (right column) of the second special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table shows the value of the number of short hours given after the big hit game ends. In the present embodiment, when the “fourth winning symbol” or “fifth winning symbol” is met, the number of time reductions is given five times. On the other hand, when it corresponds to the “sixth winning symbol”, the time reduction number is not given. In addition, the number of time reductions is not limited to the above value, and may be 1 to 4 times, or may be 5 times or more (the same applies hereinafter).

[Refer to Fig. 17: Special symbol change pre-processing]
Step S2412: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a big hit hour variation pattern determination process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the variation pattern (variation time and stop display time) of the first special symbol or the second special symbol based on the variation pattern determination random number shifted in the previous step S2200. The main control CPU 72 sets the value of the determined variation time in the variation timer, and sets the value of the stop display time in the stop symbol display timer. In general, in the case of big hit reach fluctuation, a fluctuation time longer than that at the time of loss is determined.

  Step S2414: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a big hit other setting process. In this process, the type of winning symbol (hit stop symbol number) determined in the previous step S2410 is “first winning symbol”, “second winning symbol”, “fourth winning symbol” or “fifth winning symbol”. In either case, the main control CPU 72 sets the value (01H) of the time shortening function operation flag as a gaming state flag in the flag area of the RAM 76 (time shortening state transition means, time shortening function operation means). In the case of “third winning symbol” or “six winning symbol”, the value of the time shortening function operation flag in the flag area of the RAM 76 is reset (value (00H)).

  In the process of step S2414, the main control CPU 72 determines the display mode of the stop symbol (big hit symbol) by the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35 based on the big hit time stop symbol number. At the same time, the main control CPU 72 generates a lottery result command (at the time of the big hit) together with the stop symbol command (at the time of the big hit). The stop symbol command and the lottery result command are also transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process.

Next, processing for small hits will be described.
Step S2407: The main control CPU 72 executes a small hit stop symbol determination process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the type of winning symbol at the time of small hit (stop symbol number at small hit) based on the big hit symbol random number. Here, similarly, the relationship between the big hit symbol random number value and the type of winning symbol at the time of small hitting is defined in advance in the small hitting symbol selection table (winning type defining means). In this embodiment, in order to reduce the load on the main control CPU 72, the winning symbol at the time of the small hit is determined using the big hit symbol random number, but a dedicated random number may be used separately. In the present embodiment, no small hit is set for the first special symbol, but only for the second special symbol.

[Winning pattern for small hits]
In this embodiment, there are roughly three types of winning symbols that are selectively determined at the time of a small hit. The three types are “seventh winning symbol” to “9th winning symbol”. Each of the three types of winning symbols may further include a plurality of winning symbols. For example, “seventh winning symbol A”, “seventh winning symbol B”, “seventh winning symbol C”,...

[2nd special symbol small symbol stop symbol selection table]
FIG. 21 is a diagram showing a configuration column of the second special symbol small hit stop symbol selection table. The main control CPU 72 determines the type of winning symbol with reference to the second special symbol small hit stop symbol selection table (winning type defining means).

  Also in the second special symbol small hit stop symbol selection table, the left column shows the distribution value by winning symbol, and each distribution value “45”, “5”, “50” is the denominator. This corresponds to the ratio of 100. Similarly, in the second column from the left, “seventh winning symbol”, “eighth winning symbol”, and “9th winning symbol” corresponding to each distribution value are shown. That is, at the time of a small hit corresponding to the second special symbol, the ratio of selecting the “seventh winning symbol” is 45/100 (= 45%), and the proportion of selecting the “eighth winning symbol” Is 5/100 (= 5%), and the ratio at which the “9th winning symbol” is selected is 50/100 (= 50%).

  As a result of this small hit, the main control CPU 72 performs a selection lottery based on the big hit symbol random number, and selectively determines the winning symbol at the selection ratio shown in the second special symbol small hit stop symbol selection table. In the second special symbol small hit stop symbol selection table, for example, 2-byte command data is defined as a stop symbol command at the time of winning as shown in the third column from the left. Again, the stop symbol command is described by the combination of the above MODE value-EVENT value. Among these, the MODE value “B2H” of the upper byte is selected when the winning symbol of this time is the small special hit of the second special symbol. It is a thing. Further, the EVENT values “04H”, “05H”, and “06H” in the lower byte represent the types of winning symbols corresponding in the selection table. Therefore, for example, when “seventh winning symbol” is selected as the winning symbol as a result of this small hit, the stop symbol command is described as “B2H04H”.

  As described above, when the selected symbol is selected from the second special symbol small hit stop symbol selection table, the main control CPU 72 generates a stop symbol command at that time. The generated stop symbol command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process described above, for example. Further, the main control CPU 72 determines a small hit stop symbol number for the second special symbol based on the selected winning symbol.

[Time reduction]
In the second special symbol small hit stop symbol selection table, the fourth column from the left (right column), during the small hit game, the game ball passes through the specific area 31x and the big hit game is started. The value of the number of short hours given after the end is shown. In the present embodiment, when the “seventh winning symbol” or “eighth winning symbol” is met, the number of time reductions is given five times. On the other hand, when it corresponds to the “9th winning symbol”, the time reduction number is not given.

[Refer to Fig. 17: Special symbol change pre-processing]
Step S2408: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a small hit hour variation pattern determination process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the variation pattern (variation time and stop display time) of the second special symbol based on the variation pattern determination random number shifted in the previous step S2200 (variation pattern selection means). Further, the main control CPU 72 sets the determined variation time value in the variation timer, and sets the stop display time value in the stop symbol display timer. In this embodiment, the small hit is set only for the second special symbol, and a variation pattern having a constant variation time is selected at the small hit. Details of the variation time will be described later.

  Step S2409: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a small hitting and other setting process. In this processing, the main control CPU 72 determines the display mode of the stop symbol (small hit symbol) by the second special symbol display device 35 based on the stop symbol number at the time of small hit. In addition, the main control CPU 72 generates a stop symbol command and a lottery result command (at the time of a small hit) to be transmitted to the effect control device 124. The stop symbol command and the lottery result command are also transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process.

  Step S2415: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes special symbol variation start processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 selects the fluctuation pattern data based on the fluctuation pattern number (out of time / hit). At the same time, the main control CPU 72 sets a special symbol variation start flag in the flag area of the RAM 76. Then, the main control CPU 72 generates a change start command to be transmitted to the effect control device 124. This variation start command is also transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process. When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 sets the special symbol changing process (step S3000) as the next jump destination and returns to the special symbol game process.

[Fig. 16: Special symbol change processing, special symbol stop display processing]
In the special symbol fluctuation processing, the main control CPU 72 loads the value of the fluctuation timer from the register to the timer counter as described above, and then the timer according to the passage of time (clock pulse count number or interrupt counter value). Decrement the counter value. Then, while referring to the value of the timer counter, the main control CPU 72 controls the special symbol variation display as described above until the value becomes zero. When the value of the timer counter becomes 0, the main control CPU 72 sets the special symbol stop display in-progress process (step S4000) as the next jump destination.

  In the special symbol stop display process, the main control CPU 72 controls the special symbol stop display based on the stop symbol determined in the stop symbol determination process (steps S2404, S2407, and S2410 in FIG. 17). The main control CPU 72 generates a symbol stop command to be transmitted to the effect control device 124. The symbol stop command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process. When the stop symbol is displayed for a predetermined time in the special symbol stop display process, the main control CPU 72 deletes the symbol changing flag.

[Special symbol change time correspondence table (non-time shortened state)]
FIG. 22 is a diagram showing a correspondence table of special symbol variation times in the non-time shortened state.
When the gaming state is a non-time shortening state (when the special symbol variation time shortening function is not activated), the main control CPU 72 sets the special symbol variation time as follows. One or a plurality of variation patterns having variation times shown below are stored in a variation pattern selection table in a non-time shortened state of a special symbol (not shown). The main control CPU 72 determines the variation pattern (variation time) of the special symbol based on the internal state and the lottery result (hereinafter the same).

  The variation time of the first special symbol is set to a normal variation time (for example, about 2 seconds to 3 minutes) when the result of the internal lottery falls out or hits the jackpot. However, a longer variation time is more likely to be selected when the jackpot is hit.

  On the other hand, the variation time of the second special symbol is set to a certain variation time (for example, 20 seconds) when the result of the internal lottery corresponds to a small hit or a big hit.

[Special symbol change time correspondence table (time reduction state)]
FIG. 23 is a diagram showing a correspondence table of special symbol variation times in the time shortening state.
When the gaming state is a time shortening state (when the special symbol variation time shortening function is activated), the main control CPU 72 sets the special symbol variation time as follows. In the time shortening state variation pattern selection table (not shown), one or a plurality of variation patterns having the following variation times are stored (time shortening state variation time setting means).

  The variation time of the first special symbol is set to a shortened variation time (for example, about 2 seconds) when the result of the internal lottery is off, and a certain variation time (for example, when the result of the internal lottery is a big hit) 20 seconds).

  On the other hand, the variation time of the second special symbol is set to a certain variation time (for example, 20 seconds) when the result of the internal lottery corresponds to a small hit or a big hit.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, a fixed variation time (for example, 20 seconds) is defined as the variation time at the time of winning the second special symbol in the time shortening state (the variation time at the time shortened state special symbol winning). Definition means).

[Normal symbol variation table]
FIG. 24 is a diagram showing a correspondence table of normal symbol variation times by state.

  The main control CPU 72 sets the variation time of the normal symbol as follows according to the gaming state. A normal pattern fluctuation pattern selection table (not shown) stores one or a plurality of fluctuation patterns having the following fluctuation times. The main control CPU 72 determines the variation pattern (variation time) of the normal symbol based on the internal state and the lottery result.

When the gaming state is a non-time shortened state, the variation time of the normal symbol is set to a normal variation time (about 1 second to several minutes).
On the other hand, when the gaming state is a time shortening state, the variation time of the normal symbol is set to either the first variation time (5 seconds), the second variation time (10 seconds), or the third variation time (30 seconds). Is done.

  As described above, in this embodiment, as the variation time of the normal symbol in the time shortening state, the short time (5 seconds or 10 seconds) shorter than the certain symbol variation time (20 seconds) and the certain symbol constant time. A long time (30 seconds) longer than the variation time is defined (time shortening state normal symbol variation time defining means).

  Here, the variation time of the normal symbol in the non-time shortened state is a time equal to or shorter than the end time of the jackpot game based on the first special symbol lottery. The end time in this case can be set to 35 seconds, for example.

  FIG. 25 is a diagram showing details such as a variation time when a normal symbol is won. The following normal symbol variation times are merely examples.

[Non-time reduction state]
When the gaming state is a non-time shortening state, any one of the variation pattern 1 to the variation pattern 3 is selected. The variation pattern 1 to the variation pattern 3 are variation patterns at the time of winning, but the variation pattern at the time of loss is the same variation time as the variation pattern 1.

  When the variation pattern 1 is selected, the variation time is 6 seconds, the fixed time (stop display time) is 0.5 seconds, the opening time (OP) is 0.02 seconds, and the ending time (ED) Is 0.2 seconds, and the total game time is 6.72 seconds.

  When the variation pattern 2 is selected, the variation time is 11 seconds, the confirmation time is 0.5 seconds, the opening time (OP) is 0.02 seconds, and the ending time (ED) is 0.2 seconds. The total game time is 11.72 seconds.

  When the variation pattern 3 is selected, the variation time is 31 seconds, the confirmation time is 0.5 seconds, the opening time (OP) is 0.02 seconds, and the ending time (ED) is 0.2 seconds. The total game time is 31.72 seconds.

  The distribution ratios of the fluctuation patterns 1 to 3 are “33%”, “33%”, and “34%”.

[Time reduction state]
When the gaming state is a time shortening state, any one of the variation patterns 4 to 6 is selected. The variation pattern 4 to the variation pattern 6 are variation patterns at the time of winning, but the variation pattern at the time of loss is the same variation time as the variation pattern 4.

  When the variation pattern 4 is selected, the variation time is 5 seconds, the fixed time is 0.5 seconds, the opening time (OP) is 0.02 seconds, and the ending time (ED) is 0.2 seconds. The total game time is 5.72 seconds.

  When the variation pattern 5 is selected, the variation time is 10 seconds, the fixed time is 0.5 seconds, the opening time (OP) is 0.02 seconds, and the ending time (ED) is 0.2 seconds. The total game time is 10.72 seconds.

  When the variation pattern 6 is selected, the variation time is 30 seconds, the confirmation time is 0.5 seconds, the opening time (OP) is 0.02 seconds, and the ending time (ED) is 0.2 seconds. The total game time is 31.72 seconds.

  The distribution rates of the fluctuation patterns 4 to 6 are “10%”, “10%”, and “80%”.

  FIG. 26 is a diagram showing details of the opening pattern of the variable start winning device. The opening pattern of the variable start winning device is set as follows.

[Non-time reduction state]
When the gaming state is a non-time shortening state, one of the opening pattern 1 to the opening pattern 3 is selected.

When the opening pattern 1 is selected, the opening time of the variable start winning device 28 is 0.1 second.
When the opening pattern 2 is selected, the opening time of the variable start winning device 28 is 0.2 seconds.
When the opening pattern 3 is selected, the opening time of the variable start winning device 28 is 0.3 seconds.

  The distribution ratios of the open patterns 1 to 3 are “33%”, “33%”, and “34%”. The distribution of the open pattern can be distributed according to the winning symbol of the normal symbol. In addition, if the winning symbol (winning type) of the normal symbol is increased, the normal symbol display device 33 may not be sufficient with only two lamps. In that case, three or more lamps are used by using three or more lamps. It is possible to express the winning symbol of the normal symbol.

[Time reduction state]
When the gaming state is a time shortening state, any one of the opening pattern 4 to the opening pattern 6 is selected.

When the opening pattern 4 is selected, the opening time of the variable start winning device 28 is 3 seconds.
When the opening pattern 5 is selected, the opening time of the variable start winning device 28 is 4 seconds.
When the opening pattern 6 is selected, the opening time of the variable start winning device 28 is 5 seconds.

  The distribution ratios of the open patterns 4 to 6 are “33%”, “33%”, and “34%”.

  The variable start winning device 28 is opened until the above opening time ends or until one game ball is counted.

  FIG. 27 is a diagram showing details of the variation time of the special symbol at the time of winning in the time shortening state.

[Time reduction state]
When the gaming state is a time shortening state, the variation pattern 1 is selected when it corresponds to the small hit, and the variation pattern 2 is selected when it corresponds to the big hit.
The fluctuation times of the fluctuation pattern 1 and the fluctuation pattern 2 are both constant time (20 seconds).
The distribution ratios of the fluctuation pattern 1 and the fluctuation pattern 2 are “99%” and “1%”.

  Although the fluctuation time in the non-time shortened state is not shown, since the first special symbol is selected as non-reach fluctuation or reach fluctuation, for example, a fluctuation time of about 2 seconds to 3 minutes is selected by lottery. Is done. On the other hand, as for the second special symbol, the variation time of a certain time (20 seconds) is selected as in the time shortening state.

[Special symbol stop display processing]
Next, FIG. 28 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the special symbol stop display process. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along each procedure.

  Step S4100: The main control CPU 72 subtracts the value of the stop symbol display timer (decrements by the interrupt period).

  Step S4200: The main control CPU 72 determines whether or not the stop display time has ended based on the value of the stop symbol display timer subtracted this time. Specifically, if the value of the stop symbol display timer is not 0 or less, the main control CPU 72 determines that the stop display time has not yet ended (No). In this case, the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game process, and jumps from the execution selection process (step S1000 in FIG. 16) and repeatedly executes the special symbol stop display process in the next interrupt cycle.

  On the other hand, if the value of the stop symbol display timer is 0 or less, the main control CPU 72 determines that the stop display time has ended (Yes). In this case, the main control CPU 72 next executes step S4250.

  Step S4250: The main control CPU 72 generates a symbol stop command and a stop display time end command. The symbol stop command and the stop display time end command are transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process. In addition, the main control CPU 72 erases the symbol changing flag here. The “stop display time end command” is a command indicating that the stop display time of the special symbol has ended (elapsed).

  Step S4300: Here, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the value of the big hit flag (01H) is set. When the value of the big hit flag (01H) is set (Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S4350.

[When winning]
Step S4350: The main control CPU 72 sets the jump destination of the jump table to “variable winning device management process”. The main control CPU 72 executes processing for setting various functions to non-operation in this processing. Specifically, the time reduction function is deactivated. Thereby, before the special game (big player) is started, the state is shifted to the normal state (non-time shortened state).

  When the above procedure is completed at the time of the big hit, the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game process.

[When not winning]
On the other hand, the following procedure is executed in cases other than the big hit.
That is, if the main control CPU 72 determines in step S4300 that the value of the big hit flag (01H) is not set (No), it next executes step S4600.

  Step S4600: The main control CPU 72 next checks whether or not the value of the small hit flag (01H) is set. If the value of the small hit flag (01H) is not set and is simply shifted (No), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S4602.

  Step S4602: The main control CPU 72 sets the special symbol variation pre-processing address as the jump destination address of the jump table.

  Step S4605: On the other hand, if the value (01H) of the small hit flag is set (step S4600: Yes), the main control CPU 72 sets the address of the variable winning device management process as the jump destination address of the jump table.

  Step S4610: Next, the main control CPU 72 loads the value of the number cut counter. In the “number of times counter”, each counter value is set in the time-short count area of the RAM 76 in the “time reduction state”. In the present embodiment, since the so-called time reduction time shortening function is employed, when shifting to the “time reduction state”, the time reduction counter relating to the time reduction state is set to a predetermined numerical value (for example, 100 times).

  Step S4620: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the loaded counter value is zero. At this time, if the count cut counter value is already 0 (Yes), the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game process. On the other hand, when the count cut counter value is not 0 (No), after generating the count cut counter value command, the main control CPU 72 next executes step S4630.

Step S4630: The main control CPU 72 decrements (subtracts 1) the count-down counter value.
Step S4640: The main control CPU 72 determines whether or not the subtraction result is not zero. As a result of the subtraction, when the value of the number cut counter is not 0 (Yes), the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game process. On the other hand, if the value of the number cut counter becomes 0 (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S4650.

  Step S4650: Here, the main control CPU 72 resets a flag at the time of turning off the number of times function. In the present embodiment, since the turn-off counter relating to the time reduction state is set to a predetermined numerical value (for example, 100 times), the time reduction function operation flag is reset after the special symbol fluctuates 100 times after the special game. As a result, the time reduction state ends after the special symbol stop display. When the above procedure is completed, the process returns to the special symbol game process.

[Display output management processing]
Next, FIG. 29 is a flowchart showing a configuration example of the display output management process (step S210 in FIG. 11) executed in the interrupt management process. The display output management process includes a special symbol display setting process (step S1200), a normal symbol display setting process (step S1210), a state display setting process (step S1220), an operation memory display setting process (step S1230), and a continuous operation number display setting. This is a configuration including a subroutine group of processing (step S1240).

  Among these, the special symbol display setting process (step S1200), the normal symbol display setting process (step S1210), and the operation memory display setting process (step S1230) are the first special symbol display device 34, the second, as already described. Generates drive signals to be applied to the LEDs of the special symbol display device 35, the normal symbol display device 33, the normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a, the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a, and the second special symbol operation memory number display lamp 35a. And output processing.

  The state display setting process (step S1220) and the continuous operation number display setting process (step S1240) are processes for generating and outputting a drive signal to be applied to each LED of the gaming state display device 38. First, in the state display setting process, the main control CPU 72 controls the lighting of the time-short state display lamp 38e according to the value of the time shortening function operation flag. For example, if the value (01H) is set in the time reduction function operation flag when the pachinko machine 1 is turned on, the main control CPU 72 displays the time reduction state display lamp 38e regardless of whether or not the power is turned on. A lighting signal is output to the corresponding LED. Further, the main control CPU 72 controls the lighting of the launch position designation lamp 38f in accordance with the special game management status. For example, when the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31 is activated due to the big hit game or the small hit game, the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal to the LED corresponding to the launch position designation lamp 38f. To do. If the value (01H) is set in the time reduction function operation flag, the main control CPU 72 gives a lighting signal to the LED corresponding to the launch position designation lamp 38f in addition to the above-mentioned time reduction state display lamp 38e. Output. Note that the launch position designation lamp 38f is turned on from the start of the big hit game until the end of the "time reduced state" when the game is shifted to the "time reduced state" through the big hit game, and is not turned on when the "time reduced state" ends ( OFF).

  The main control CPU 72 controls lighting of the big hit type display lamps 38a and 38b in the continuous operation number display setting process. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal for one of the big hit type display lamps 38a and 38b based on the value of the above-mentioned continuous operation number status. At this time, one of the display lamps 38a and 38b corresponding to the jackpot symbol designated by the value of the continuous operation number status is the target of outputting the lighting signal. For example, if the value of the continuous operation count status designates “16 rounds”, the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal to the lamp 38b representing “16 rounds (16R)”. Further, if the value of the continuous operation number status specifies “15 rounds”, the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal to the lamp 38a representing “15 rounds (15R)”.

[Variable winning device management process]
Next, details of the variable winning device management process will be described. FIG. 30 is a flowchart illustrating a configuration example of the variable winning device management process. The variable winning device management process includes a gaming process selection process (step S5100), a special winning opening opening pattern setting process (step S5200), a special winning opening / closing operation process (step S5300), a special winning opening closing process (step S5400), and an end. This is a configuration including a subroutine group of processing (step S5500).

  Step S5100: In the game process selection process, the main control CPU 72 selects the jump destination of the process to be executed next (any one of steps S5200 to S5500). That is, the main control CPU 72 selects the program address of the process to be executed next from the jump table as the jump destination address, and sets the end of the variable winning device management process in the stack pointer as the return address. Which process is selected as the next jump destination depends on the progress of the processes performed so far. For example, if the operation (opening / closing operation) of the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31 has not yet started, the main control CPU 72 sets the big winning opening opening pattern setting process (step) as the next jump destination. S5200) is selected. On the other hand, if the winning opening opening pattern setting process has already been completed, the main control CPU 72 selects the winning opening opening / closing operation process (step S5300) as the next jump destination, and has completed the winning opening opening / closing operation process. Then, the special winning opening closing process (step S5400) is selected as the next jump destination. When the big prize opening / closing operation process and the big prize opening closing process are repeatedly executed over the set number of continuous operations (number of rounds), the main control CPU 72 selects an end process (step S5500) as the next jump destination. . Hereinafter, each process will be described in more detail.

[Big prize opening pattern setting process]
FIG. 31 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the special winning opening opening pattern setting process. This process is for setting conditions such as the number of times of opening and closing the first variable winning device 30 and the second variable winning device 31 and the time of each opening at the time of big hit or small hit. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along each procedure.

  Step S5202: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the value of the big hit flag (01H) is set. As a result of the confirmation, if the value of the big hit flag (01H) is set (Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5203. On the other hand, when the big hit flag value (01H) is not set (No), that is, when the small hit flag value (01H) is set, the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5204.

  Step S5203: The main control CPU 72 executes a big winning big opening opening pattern setting process. In this process, the winning pattern opening pattern corresponding to the winning symbol at the time of the big hit is set based on the opening pattern setting table by the symbol at the big hit. The specific processing content will be further described later with reference to another flowchart. Next, the main control CPU 72 executes step S5205.

  Step S5204: The main control CPU 72 executes a small winning big prize opening opening pattern setting process. In this process, the opening pattern of the big winning opening is set based on the opening pattern setting table for each small hit symbol. The specific processing content will be further described later with reference to another flowchart. Next, the main control CPU 72 executes step S5205.

  Step S5205: When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the big winning opening / closing operation processing, and returns to the variable winning device management processing.

[Big prize opening pattern setting process for big hits]
FIG. 32 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of the big winning opening big opening opening pattern setting process. Hereinafter, the contents will be described along a procedure example.

  Step S5210: The main control CPU 72 operates the condition device and the accessory continuous operation device. Here, the “condition device” is a device whose operation is a condition necessary for the operation of the accessory continuous operation device, and “the accessory continuous operation device” is the first variable winning device 30 or the second This is a device that can continuously operate the variable winning device 31. Therefore, unless the condition device is operated, the first variable winning device 30 and the second variable winning device 31 are not operated in the big hit game. Next, the main control CPU 72 executes step S5212.

  Step S5212: The main control CPU 72 sets “start of big role (during big hit game)” as an internal state flag for control. Further, the main control CPU 72 sets the value of the continuous operation number status according to the type of jackpot symbol. In the present embodiment, a value representing “15 rounds” is set in the continuous operation count status regardless of the type of jackpot symbol. Further, the main control CPU 72 generates a status command indicating that the big hit. The state command representing the big hit is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process. Next, the main control CPU 72 executes step S5214.

  Step S5214: The main control CPU 72 executes a big hit time symbol-specific opening pattern selection process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 refers to the jackpot symbol-specific opening pattern setting table and selects an opening pattern corresponding to the type of winning symbol related to the special symbol. Here, the opening pattern represents a setting for operating the first variable winning device 30 and the second variable winning device 31, and represents settings such as the number of execution rounds, the opening time, and the interval time, for example. Next, the main control CPU 72 executes step S5216.

[Open pattern setting table for each jackpot symbol]
FIG. 33 is a diagram illustrating an example of a symbol pattern opening pattern setting table for a big hit. This big hit symbol-specific opening pattern setting table defines the opening / closing operation pattern of the variable winning device (the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31) to be operated for each round for different winning symbols related to special symbols. It is. Specifically, the following special winning opening patterns are determined for each winning symbol.

[First winning symbol, fifth winning symbol]
In this example, it is indicated that the type of the variable winning device to be operated is only the first variable winning device 30. Further, the number of execution rounds is 15 rounds, and 4 of them are rounds with a ball. And in the round with a ball, the opening time for opening the first grand prize opening per round is 29.0 seconds, and the opening time in a round without a ball is 0.5 seconds. . Moreover, it represents that the interval time provided between each round is 1.0 second (5.0 seconds between rounds without a ball).

  As described above, when the type of the winning symbol related to the special symbol is the first winning symbol or the fifth winning symbol, when the big hit game is started, the first variable winning device 30 is 29.29 from the first round to the fourth round. Operates during each round for 0 seconds and opens the 1st grand prize opening (however, it is closed when the maximum number of winnings (winning) is confirmed), the 5th to 15th rounds are the 1st The variable winning device 30 will only operate during each round for 0.5 seconds. Therefore, this means that four rounds can be obtained.

[Second winning design]
In this example, it is indicated that the type of the variable winning device to be operated is only the first variable winning device 30. Further, the number of execution rounds is 15 rounds, and the number of rounds with a ball is 0. Moreover, it represents that the open time in a round without a turn is 0.5 seconds. Moreover, it represents that the interval time provided between each round is 1.0 second.

  As described above, when the type of the winning symbol related to the special symbol is the second winning symbol, when the big hit game is started, the first variable winning device 30 can only be applied for 0.5 seconds from the first round to the fifteenth round. Does not work during each round. Therefore, it means that it is difficult to get a ball.

[3rd winning symbol, 6th winning symbol]
In this example, it is indicated that the type of the variable winning device to be operated is only the first variable winning device 30. In addition, the number of execution rounds is 15 rounds, and 8 of them are rounds with a ball. And in the round with a ball, the opening time for opening the first grand prize opening per round is 29.0 seconds, and the opening time in a round without a ball is 0.5 seconds. . Moreover, it represents that the interval time provided between each round is 1.0 second (5.0 seconds between rounds without a ball).

  As described above, when the type of the winning symbol related to the special symbol is the third winning symbol or the sixth winning symbol, when the big hit game is started, the first variable winning device 30 is 29.29 from the first round to the eighth round. Operates during each round for 0 seconds and opens the first grand prize opening (however, it is closed when the maximum number of winnings (winning) is confirmed), and the 9th to 15th rounds are the first The variable winning device 30 will only operate during each round for 0.5 seconds. Therefore, it indicates that 8 rounds can be obtained.

[4th winning design]
In this example, it is indicated that the type of the variable winning device to be operated is only the first variable winning device 30. In addition, the number of execution rounds is 15 rounds, and all 15 rounds are rounds with a ball. And in the round with a ball, it represents that the opening time which opens a 1st big winning opening per round is 29.0 seconds. Moreover, it represents that the interval time provided between each round is 1.0 second.

  In this way, when the winning symbol type related to the special symbol is the fourth winning symbol, when the big hit game is started, the first variable winning device 30 takes round 29.0 seconds from the first round to the 15th round. And the first grand prize opening is opened (however, it is closed when the upper limit number of winnings (winning) is confirmed). Therefore, it indicates that 15 rounds of the ball can be obtained.

  As described above, the main control CPU 72 sets the opening pattern of the big winning opening corresponding to the type of the winning symbol by referring to the opening pattern setting table for each big hit symbol.

[See Figure 32: Big Open at the Big Hit Opening Pattern Setting Process]
Step S5216: The main control CPU 72 sets the operation of the first variable winning device 30. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 sets the type of the variable winning device to be operated for each round (1 round to the final round) in the big hit game based on the opening pattern corresponding to the winning symbol in the first variable winning device 30. To do. In the present embodiment, since the opening pattern corresponding to all winning symbols (first winning symbol to sixth winning symbol) at the time of the big hit is the first big winning opening is opened from the first round to the final round, 1 The operation of the variable winning device 30 is set. Next, the main control CPU 72 executes step S5218.

  Step S5218: The main control CPU 72 sets the number of execution rounds. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 sets the number of rounds to be executed during the big hit game based on the release pattern corresponding to the winning symbol. In the present embodiment, 15 rounds are set as the number of execution patterns of the open pattern corresponding to all the winning symbols (first winning symbol to sixth winning symbol) at the time of the big hit. Next, the main control CPU 72 executes step S5220.

  Step S5220: The main control CPU 72 sets a big hit release timer. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 sets an opening time (opening timer) per time when the big winning opening is opened for each round at the time of big hit. In the present embodiment, it is set for each round based on the opening time of the opening pattern corresponding to the winning symbol (first winning symbol to sixth winning symbol) at the time of big hit. For example, in the case of the 1st winning design, the opening time for opening the 1st grand prize opening is set to 29.0 seconds for the round with a game, and the 1st grand prize opening is opened for the round without a game. The opening time is set to 0.5 seconds. Therefore, if about 29.0 seconds are set as the value of the release timer, the release time is a sufficient time (for example, a launch control board) that a winning to the first big prize opening easily occurs during one opening. The set 174 is a time during which 10 or more game balls are fired, preferably 6 seconds or more. On the other hand, if a value of about 0.5 seconds is set as the value of the release timer, the release time becomes a time when it is difficult to win the first big prize opening during one release. Next, the main control CPU 72 executes step S5222.

  Step S5222: The main control CPU 72 sets a big hit interval timer. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 sets a waiting time (interval timer) between rounds at the time of big hit. In the present embodiment, the interval timer of the open pattern corresponding to all the winning symbols (the first winning symbol to the sixth winning symbol) at the time of the big hit is 1.0 second (5.0 seconds between the rounds without a ball). ) Is set. For example, after the opening of the first big prize opening between the first round and the second round is finished and once closed, an interval timer of about 1.0 second is set. Next, the main control CPU 72 executes step S5224.

  Step S5224: The main control CPU 72 generates a continuous operation number command. The continuous operation number command can be generated based on the number of execution rounds set in the previous process (step S5218). Therefore, based on the number of rounds “15R” of the open pattern corresponding to the winning symbol (first winning symbol to sixth winning symbol) at the time of big hit, the value indicating “15 rounds” is generated as the continuous operation number command. . The generated continuous operation number command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process.

  When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the special winning opening opening pattern setting process (FIG. 31).

[Big winning opening opening pattern setting process for small hits]
FIG. 34 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of the small winning big opening opening pattern setting process. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along the example of a procedure.

  Step S5252: The main control CPU 72 sets “small hit start (during small hit game)” as an internal state flag for control. Further, the main control CPU 72 generates a state command indicating that a small hit game is being played. The state command indicating that a small hit game is in progress is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process described above. Next, the main control CPU 72 executes step S5254.

  Step S5254: The main control CPU 72 executes a small hit release pattern selection process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 refers to the opening pattern setting table for small hits and selects an opening pattern. Here, the opening pattern represents a setting for operating the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31, and represents, for example, settings such as the number of times of opening, the opening time, the interval time, and the opening time of the specific area 31x. ing. Next, the main control CPU 72 executes step S5256.

[Open pattern setting table for small hits]
FIG. 35 is a diagram showing an example of the small hit opening pattern setting table. This small-hit opening pattern setting table defines opening / closing operation patterns of the variable winning device (the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31). In the present embodiment, one opening pattern is set at the time of a small hit, but a plurality may be defined for each winning symbol.

  In this example, the type of the variable winning device to be operated is the second variable winning device 31. In addition, the number of times the second variable winning device 31 is released is 3, and the time for one release is 0.6 seconds. Since the number of times of opening is 3, the interval time is set to about 1 second, for example. The opening start time of the specific area 31x is 2.0 seconds later, and the opening end time of the specific area 31x is 3.0 seconds later. However, the opening start and the opening end of the specific area 31x may be during the opening of the second variable winning device 31.

[See Figure 34: Big Opening Game Opening Pattern Setting Process]
Step S5256: The main control CPU 72 sets the operation of the second variable winning device 31. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 sets the type of the variable winning device to be operated during the small hit game in the second variable winning device 31 based on the opening pattern corresponding to the small hit. Next, the main control CPU 72 executes step S5258.

  Step S5258: The main control CPU 72 sets the number of releases. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 sets the number of times to be released during the small hit game based on the open pattern corresponding to the small hit. In this embodiment, three times are set as the number of times of opening of the opening pattern corresponding to the small hit. Next, the main control CPU 72 executes step S5260.

  Step S5260: The main control CPU 72 sets a small hit release timer. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 sets an opening time (opening timer) per time when opening the big winning opening based on the opening pattern corresponding to the small hit. In the present embodiment, 0.6 seconds is set based on the opening time of the opening pattern corresponding to the small hit. Next, the main control CPU 72 executes step S5262.

  Step S5262: The main control CPU 72 sets a small hitting interval timer. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 sets a waiting time (interval timer) between opening of the big winning opening based on the opening pattern corresponding to the small hit. In the present embodiment, since the number of times the special winning opening is opened is 3, the interval timer is set to a predetermined time (for example, 1.0 second). Next, the main control CPU 72 executes step S5264.

  Step S5264: The main control CPU 72 sets a release timer for the specific area 31x (specific area slide member 31c). Specifically, the main control CPU 72 sets the opening time (release timer) of the specific area 31x during the small hit game based on the open pattern corresponding to the small hit time. In the present embodiment, the specific area 31x is released 2.0 seconds after the opening of the second variable winning device 31 is started, and 1.0 seconds later (3.0 from the start of opening of the second variable winning device 31). After a second), the specific area 31x is closed.

  When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the special winning opening opening pattern setting process (FIG. 31).

[Big prize opening / closing operation processing]
FIG. 36 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the special winning opening / closing operation process. This process is mainly for controlling the opening / closing operation of the first variable winning device 30 and the second variable winning device 31. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along a procedure.

  Step S5302: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the current internal state is “busy”. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 accesses the flag buffer of the RAM 76, and the current internal state is “whether or not a big game (during big hit game)” is set as an internal state flag for control. To see if it is “Big Duty”. It should be noted that the flag “in the middle of a big game (during big hit game)” is set by the main control CPU 72 during the previous process (during the big hit big opening opening pattern setting process: step S5212) or the specific area passing process described later. . As a result of the confirmation, if the current internal state is “Big Busy” (Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes Step S5306. On the other hand, if the current internal state is not “big duty” (No), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5304.

  Step S5304: The main control CPU 72 executes a second big prize opening opening / closing operation process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 operates the second variable prize winning device 31 to open and close the second big prize opening 31b based on the set opening pattern (applied to the second big prize opening solenoid 97). A process of outputting a drive signal is performed. The specific processing content will be further described later with reference to another flowchart.

  Step S5306: The main control CPU 72 executes a first big prize opening / closing operation process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 operates the first variable prize winning device 30 to open and close the first big prize opening based on the set opening pattern (drive applied to the first big prize opening solenoid 90). Signal output). The specific processing content will be further described later with reference to another flowchart.

  When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the variable winning device management process (FIG. 30).

[Second grand prize opening and closing operation processing]
FIG. 37 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the second grand prize opening / closing operation process. Hereinafter, the contents will be described along a procedure example.

  Step S5310: The main control CPU 72 opens the second big prize opening 31b. Specifically, a drive signal applied to the second grand prize winning solenoid 97 is output. Thereby, the 2nd variable prize-winning apparatus 31 operate | moves and it transfers from a closed state to an open state. Next, the main control CPU 72 executes step S5312.

  Step S5312: The main control CPU 72 executes an open timer countdown process. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 executes the count-down of the release timer set in the previous process (step S5260 or step S5264 of the small winning big winning opening opening pattern setting process (in FIG. 34)). In this process, in addition to the release timer related to the opening of the second big prize opening 31b, a countdown is performed for the release timer (open start time, release end time) related to the opening of the specific area 31x. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5314.

  Step S5314: The main control CPU 72 executes a specific area opening / closing operation process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 operates the specific area slide member 31c to open and close the specific area 31x based on the set opening pattern (outputs a drive signal to be applied to the specific area solenoid 99). Process. The specific processing content will be further described later with reference to another flowchart. Next, the main control CPU 72 executes step S5316.

[Specific area open / close operation processing]
FIG. 38 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the specific area opening / closing operation process. Hereinafter, the contents will be described along a procedure example.

  Step S5330: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the opening time of the specific area 31x has been started. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the value of the release timer for the opening start time related to the release of the specific area 31x that has been counted down in the countdown process (step S5312) is 0. Check if the 31x opening time has started. As a result of the confirmation, when the opening time of the specific area 31x is started (Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5332. On the other hand, if the opening time of the specific area 31x has not been started (No) or has already been opened, the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5334.

  Step S5332: The main control CPU 72 opens the specific area 31x. Specifically, a drive signal applied to the specific area solenoid 99 is output. As a result, the specific area slide member 31c is operated to shift from the closed state to the open state. Next, the main control CPU 72 executes step S5334.

  Step S5334: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the game ball has passed through the specific area 31x. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 accesses the storage area of the RAM 76 and confirms whether or not the specific area detection flag is ON. As a result of the confirmation, when the specific area detection flag is ON and it is confirmed that the game ball has passed the specific area 31x (Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5336. On the other hand, when the specific area detection flag is OFF and it is confirmed that the game ball does not pass through the specific area 31x (No), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5338.

  Step S5336: The main control CPU 72 sets the specific area passing flag to ON. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 accesses the flag buffer area of the RAM 76 and sets the value of the specific area passing flag to 01H. Next, the main control CPU 72 executes step S5338. The specific area passing flag and the specific area detection flag are reset at the end of the big hit game.

  Step S5338: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the opening time of the specific area 31x has ended. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the value of the release timer for the release end time related to the release of the specific area 31x that has been counted down in the countdown process (step S5312) is 0. Check if the 31x opening time has expired. As a result of the confirmation, when the opening time of the specific area 31x is ended (Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5340. On the other hand, when the opening time of the specific area 31x has not ended (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the second big prize opening opening / closing operation process (FIG. 37).

  Step S5340: The main control CPU 72 closes the specific area 31x. Specifically, the output of the drive signal applied to the specific area solenoid 99 is stopped. As a result, the specific area slide member 31c returns from the open state to the closed state.

  When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the second big prize opening opening / closing operation process (FIG. 37).

[See Fig. 37: Opening and Closing Process for Second Grand Prize Opening]
Step S5316: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the opening time of the second big winning opening 31b has ended. Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the release timer for the second big winning opening 31b after the countdown process is 0 or less. As a result of this confirmation, when the opening time of the second big prize opening 31b has ended (Yes), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S5322. On the other hand, when the opening time of the second big winning opening 31b has not ended (No), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5318.

  Step S5318: The main control CPU 72 executes a winning ball count process. In this process, the number of game balls won in the second variable prize-winning device 31 (the big prize opening being opened) within the opening time is counted. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 increments the count value based on the winning detection signal input from the second count switch 85 within the opening time. Next, main control CPU 72 executes step S5320.

  Step S5320: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the current count number is less than a predetermined number (9). This predetermined number defines the upper limit of the number of winning balls (upper limit of the number of winning balls) allowed per opening at the time of a small hit as described above. If the count has not yet reached the predetermined number (Yes), the main control CPU 72 returns to the variable winning device management process. Then, when the variable winning device management process is executed next, since the jump destination is set to the large winning opening / closing operation process at the present stage, the main control CPU 72 repeatedly executes the steps S5310 to S5320 described above.

  If it is determined in step S5316 that the opening time has expired (Yes), or if it is confirmed in step S5320 that the count number has reached a predetermined number (No), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5322. Note that the release at the time of the small hit is that the value of the release timer is set to a short time (for example, 2.0 seconds), so that the main control CPU 72 normally confirms that the count number has reached a predetermined number in step S5310. In most cases, it is determined in step S5316 that the opening time has ended before confirmation.

  Step S5322: The main control CPU 72 closes the second big prize opening 31b. Specifically, the output of the drive signal applied to the second grand prize winning solenoid 97 is stopped. Thereby, the 2nd variable prize-winning apparatus 31 returns from an open state to a closed state. Next, the main control CPU 72 executes step S5324.

  Step S5324: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the specific area passage flag is ON. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 accesses the flag buffer area of the RAM 76 and confirms whether or not the specific area passing flag is ON based on whether or not the value of the specific area passing flag is 01H. As a result of this confirmation, if the specific area passing flag is ON (Yes), that is, if the game ball passes the specific area 31x while the second big winning opening 31b in the small hit game is open, Next, the control CPU 72 executes step S5326. On the other hand, when the specific area passing flag is not ON (No), that is, when the game ball does not pass the specific area 31x while the second big winning opening 31b in the small hit game is open, the main control is performed. Next, the CPU 72 executes step S5328.

  Step S5326: The main control CPU 72 executes a specific area passing process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 activates the condition device and the accessory continuous action device based on the fact that the game ball has passed the specific area 31x while the second big prize winning port 31b in the small hit game is open. Then, a process of continuously operating the first variable winning device 30, that is, a process of starting a big hit game is executed (special game via special game execution means). The specific processing content will be further described later with reference to another flowchart. Next, the main control CPU 72 executes step S5328.

  Step S5328: The main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the special winning opening closing process, and returns to the special winning opening / closing operation process (FIG. 36). Then, when the variable winning device management process is executed next, the main control CPU 72 executes a special winning opening closing process.

[Processing when passing a specific area]
FIG. 39 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure of processing when passing through a specific area. Hereinafter, the contents will be described along a procedure example.

  Step S5350: The main control CPU 72 resets the small hit flag. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 accesses the flag buffer area of the RAM 76 and resets the value of the small hit flag to 00H. Next, the main control CPU 72 executes step S5352.

  Step S5352: The main control CPU 72 declares the end of the small hit. More specifically, the main control CPU 72 deletes “in the middle of hitting game” from the internal state flag, and declares the end of the small hit as an internal state in the control processing. Next, the main control CPU 72 executes step S5354.

  Step S5354: The main control CPU 72 operates the condition device and the accessory continuous operation device. Thereby, the 1st variable prize-winning apparatus 30 can be operated continuously, and a big hit game can be started. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5356.

  Step S5356: The main control CPU 72 sets “start of big role (during big hit game)” as an internal state flag for control. Further, the main control CPU 72 sets the value of the continuous operation number status according to the type of jackpot symbol. In the present embodiment, a value representing “16 rounds” is set in the continuous operation count status regardless of the type of jackpot symbol. Further, the main control CPU 72 generates a status command indicating that the big hit. The state command representing the big hit is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5358.

  Step S5358: The main control CPU 72 executes an open pattern selection process for each symbol when passing a specific area. In this process, the main control CPU 72 refers to the symbol-specific opening pattern setting table when passing through a specific area, and selects an opening pattern corresponding to the type of winning symbol related to the special symbol when hitting a small hit. Next, main control CPU 72 executes step S5350.

[Open pattern setting table by design when passing through specific area]
FIG. 40 is a diagram illustrating an example of a symbol-specific open pattern setting table when passing through a specific region. The opening pattern setting table for each symbol when passing through the specific area defines the opening / closing operation pattern of the first variable winning device 30 for each round for different winning symbols related to the special symbol at the time of hitting a small hit. Specifically, the following special winning opening patterns are determined for each winning symbol.

[Seventh winning symbol]
In this example, it is indicated that the type of the variable winning device to be operated is only the first variable winning device 30. In addition, the number of execution rounds is 16 rounds. The number of execution rounds includes the operation of the second variable winning device 31 that is released with a small hit, so in the big hit game that will be started, 15 rounds are obtained by subtracting one round from 16 rounds. It represents the number of rounds in a substantial jackpot game (the same applies to the 8th winning symbol and the 9th winning symbol). All 15 rounds are rounds with a ball. And in the round with a ball, it represents that the opening time which opens a 1st big winning opening per round is 29.0 seconds. Moreover, it represents that the interval time provided between each round is 1.0 second.

  As described above, when the type of the winning symbol related to the special symbol corresponding to the small win is the seventh winning symbol, when the big hit game is started, the first variable winning device 30 is changed from the second round to the sixteenth round. Operates during each round for 29.0 seconds and opens the 1st grand prize opening (however, it is closed when the maximum number of winnings (balls) is confirmed) (2nd variable prize in small hits) The opening of the device 31 is the first round). Therefore, it indicates that 15 rounds of the ball can be obtained.

[Eighth winning design]
In this example, it is indicated that the type of the variable winning device to be operated is only the first variable winning device 30. In addition, the number of execution rounds is 16 rounds (the number of rounds in a substantial jackpot game is 15 rounds), and 4 of them are rounds with a ball. And in the round with a ball, the opening time for opening the first grand prize opening per round is 29.0 seconds, and the opening time in a round without a ball is 0.5 seconds. . Moreover, it represents that the interval time provided between each round is 1.0 second (5.0 seconds between rounds without a ball).

  As described above, when the type of the winning symbol related to the special symbol at the time of hitting the small win is the eighth winning symbol, the first variable winning device 30 from the second round to the fifth round is started when the big hit game is started. Operates during each round for 29.0 seconds and opens the first prize opening (however, it is closed when the maximum number of winnings (winning) is confirmed), from the 6th to the 16th round The first variable winning device 30 is activated during each round for only 0.5 seconds. Therefore, this means that four rounds can be obtained.

[9th winning design]
In this example, it is indicated that the type of the variable winning device to be operated is only the first variable winning device 30. In addition, the number of execution rounds is 16 rounds (substantial number of rounds in the big hit game is 15 rounds), and 8 of them are rounds with a ball. And in the round with a ball, the opening time for opening the first grand prize opening per round is 29.0 seconds, and the opening time in a round without a ball is 0.5 seconds. . Moreover, it represents that the interval time provided between each round is 1.0 second (5.0 seconds between rounds without a ball).

  As described above, when the winning symbol type for the special symbol corresponding to the small win is the ninth winning symbol, the first variable winning device 30 from the second round to the ninth round is started when the big hit game is started. Operates during each round for 29.0 seconds, and the first grand prize opening is opened (however, it is closed when the maximum number of winnings (winning) is confirmed) From the 10th round to the 16th round The first variable winning device 30 is activated during each round for only 0.5 seconds. Therefore, it indicates that 8 rounds can be obtained.

  As described above, the main control CPU 72 sets the opening pattern of the special winning opening corresponding to the type of the winning symbol related to the special symbol when hitting a small hit with reference to the symbol specific pattern passing pattern setting table. Will be.

[See Fig. 39: Processing when passing through specific area]
Step S5360: The main control CPU 72 sets the operation of the first variable winning device 30. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 is a variable winning device that is operated for each round (2 rounds to the final round) in the big hit game based on the opening pattern corresponding to the winning symbol related to the special symbol when the small hit is hit. The type is set to the first variable winning device 30. In addition, in this embodiment, the opening pattern corresponding to the winning symbol (seventh winning symbol to ninth winning symbol) related to the special symbol when it corresponds to all the small hits is the first grand prize opening in the second round to the final round. Is opened, the operation of the first variable winning device 30 is set. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5362.

  Step S5362: The main control CPU 72 sets the number of execution rounds. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 sets the number of rounds to be executed during the big hit game based on the opening pattern corresponding to the winning symbol related to the special symbol when the small hit is hit. In the present embodiment, 16 rounds are set as the number of execution rounds of the open pattern corresponding to the winning symbol (seventh winning symbol to ninth winning symbol) related to the special symbol when all hit the small hits. . Next, the main control CPU 72 executes step S5364.

  Step S5364: The main control CPU 72 sets a big hit release timer. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 sets an opening time (opening timer) per time when the big winning opening is opened for each round at the time of big hit. In the present embodiment, it is set for each round based on the opening time of the opening pattern corresponding to the winning symbol (seventh winning symbol to ninth winning symbol) related to the special symbol when hitting a small hit. For example, in the case of the 8th winning symbol, the opening time for opening the 1st grand prize opening is set to 29.0 seconds for the round with a game, and the 1st grand prize opening is opened for the round without a game. The opening time is set to 0.5 seconds. Therefore, if about 29.0 seconds are set as the value of the release timer, the release time is a sufficient time (for example, a launch control board) that a winning to the first big prize opening easily occurs during one opening. The set 174 is a time during which 10 or more game balls are fired, preferably 6 seconds or more. On the other hand, if a value of about 0.5 seconds is set as the value of the release timer, the release time becomes a time when it is difficult to win the first big prize opening during one release. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5366.

  Step S5366: The main control CPU 72 sets a big hit time timer. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 sets a waiting time (interval timer) between rounds at the time of big hit. In this embodiment, the interval timer of the open pattern corresponding to the winning symbol (the seventh winning symbol to the ninth winning symbol) related to the special symbol at the time of hitting a small hit is 1.0 seconds (between no rounds) Is set to 5.0 seconds). For example, after the opening of the first big prize opening between the second round and the third round is finished and once closed, an interval timer of about 1.0 second is set. Next, the main control CPU 72 executes step S5368.

  Step S5368: The main control CPU 72 generates a continuous operation number command. The continuous operation number command can be generated based on the number of execution rounds set in the previous process (step S5362). Therefore, the continuous operation number command is “16 rounds” based on the number of execution rounds “16R” of the open pattern corresponding to the winning symbol (seventh winning symbol to ninth winning symbol) related to the special symbol when hitting a small hit. A value representing is generated. The generated continuous operation number command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5370.

  Step S5370: The main control CPU 72 executes a specific area passing time reduction function setting process. In this process, when the winning symbol related to the special symbol corresponding to the small hit is “seventh winning symbol” or “eighth winning symbol”, the main control CPU 72 sets the value of the time shortening function operation flag as the gaming state flag. (01H) is set in the flag area of the RAM 76 (time shortening state transition means, time shortening function operating means). In the case of “9th winning symbol”, the value of the time shortening function activation flag in the flag area of the RAM 76 is reset (value (00H)).

  When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the second big prize opening opening / closing operation process (FIG. 37).

[First grand prize opening opening and closing operation processing]
FIG. 41 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the first big prize opening opening / closing operation process. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along the example of a procedure.

  Step S5380: The main control CPU 72 opens the second big prize opening 31b. Specifically, a drive signal applied to the second grand prize winning solenoid 97 is output. Thereby, the 2nd variable prize-winning apparatus 31 operate | moves and it transfers from a closed state to an open state. The main control CPU 72 next executes step S5382.

  Step S5382: The main control CPU 72 executes an open timer countdown process. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 is set in the preceding process (step S5220 of the big winning opening opening pattern setting process (in FIG. 32) or step S5364 in the specific area passing process (in FIG. 39)). The countdown of the release timer is executed. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5314.

  Step S5386: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the opening time of the first big prize opening has ended. Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the release timer for the first big winning opening after the countdown process is 0 or less. As a result of the confirmation, when the opening time of the first grand prize opening has ended (Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5392. On the other hand, when the opening time of the first big prize opening has not ended (No), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5388.

  Step S5388: The main control CPU 72 executes a winning ball count process. In this process, the number of game balls won in the first variable winning device 30 (open winning opening) during the opening time is counted. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 increments the count value based on the winning detection signal input from the first count switch 84 within the opening time. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5390.

  Step S5390: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the current count number is less than a predetermined number (9). This predetermined number defines the upper limit of the number of winning balls (upper limit of the number of winning balls) allowed per opening (one round of big hit) as described above. If the count has not yet reached the predetermined number (Yes), the main control CPU 72 returns to the variable winning device management process. Then, when the variable winning device management process is executed next, since the jump destination is set to the big winning opening / closing operation process at the present stage, the main control CPU 72 repeatedly executes the procedure of the above steps S5380 to S5390.

  If it is determined in step S5386 that the opening time has ended (Yes), or if it is confirmed in step S5390 that the count has reached a predetermined number (No), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S5392. Note that when the big hit is open and there is no round, the value of the release timer is set to a short time (for example, 0.5 seconds). Therefore, the main control CPU 72 normally sets the count in step S5390. In most cases, it is determined in step S5386 that the opening time has ended before confirming that the predetermined number has been reached.

  Step S5392: The main control CPU 72 closes the first big prize opening. Specifically, the output of the drive signal applied to the first grand prize winning solenoid 90 is stopped. Thereby, the 1st variable prize-winning apparatus 30 returns from an open state to a closed state. Next, the main control CPU 72 executes step S5324.

  Step S5394: The main control CPU 72 executes interval standby processing. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 is set in the preceding process (step S5222 in the big hit big prize opening opening pattern setting process (in FIG. 32) or step S5366 in the specific area passing process (in FIG. 39)). Performs interval timer countdown. The main control CPU 72 then executes step S5314. Then, when the value of the interval timer becomes 0 or less, the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S5395. Although not specifically shown here, until the interval time elapses (until the interval timer value becomes 0), the main control CPU 72 manages the variable winning device management that is the caller from step S5394 for each interrupt. Return to the end address of the process (FIG. 30). Then, when the special winning opening / closing operation processing is executed at the next call, step S5394 is executed directly, not from the top step S5380.

  Step S5395: The main control CPU 72 increments the value of the opening number counter. Note that the value of the number-of-releases counter is stored in the count area of the RAM 76 with an initial value of 0, for example.

  Step S5396: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the value of the incremented number-of-releases counter has reached the number set within the current round. Here, the reason why the “number of times set in the current round” is determined is to deal with an opening pattern in which, for example, “the first variable prize-winning device 30 is opened a plurality of times within one round of big hit”. It is. In the present embodiment, since such an open pattern is not particularly employed, the “number of times set in the current round” is set once for each round. Accordingly, since the counter value reaches the set number of times in one opening / closing operation (Yes), the main control CPU 72 next proceeds to step S5398.

  If a pattern in which a plurality of opening / closing operations are repeated in one round as described above is employed, the counter value has not yet reached the set number of times at the end of one opening (No). In this case, when the main control CPU 72 returns to the variable winning device management process, since the jump destination is set to the big winning opening / closing operation process at this stage, the procedure from step S5380 to step S5390 is repeated. As a result, the increment of the number-of-releases counter proceeds in step S5395, and when the counter value reaches the set number of times (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S5398.

  Step S5398: The main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the special winning opening closing process, and returns to the special winning opening / closing operation process (FIG. 36). Then, when the variable winning device management process is executed next, the main control CPU 72 executes a special winning opening closing process.

[Large prize closing process]
FIG. 42 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the special winning opening closing process. This large winning opening closing process is for continuing the operation of the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31 or terminating the operation. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along a procedure.

  Step S5401: First, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the current game is a big game (big hit game), and if it is a big game (Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5402.

  Step S5402: The main control CPU 72 increments the round number counter. Thereby, for example, the value of the round number counter is “1” at the stage where the first round ends and the second round is reached. If the game ball passes through the specific area 31x during the small hit game and the big hit game is started after the end of the small hit, the opening of the second big winning opening 31b at the small hit is treated as the first round, and the big hit The first round when the game starts is treated as the second round.

  Step S5404: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the incremented round number counter value has reached the set number of execution rounds. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 refers to the value (1 to 15) of the round number counter after increment, and if the value is less than the set execution round number (14 or 15 after 1 subtraction) ( No) Next, step S5405 is executed.

  Step S5405: The main control CPU 72 generates a round number command from the current round number counter value. This command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process as described above. The effect control device 124 can confirm the current number of rounds based on the received round number command.

  Step S5406: The main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination in the big prize opening / closing operation process.

  Step S5408: The main control CPU 72 resets the winning ball counter and returns to the variable winning device management process.

  When the main control CPU 72 next executes a variable winning device management process, the main control CPU 72 executes a big prize opening opening / closing operation process as the next jump destination in the game process selection process (step S5100 in FIG. 30). Then, after execution of the special prize opening / closing operation process, through the execution of the special prize opening closing process, the main control CPU 72 executes the special prize opening closing process again, and repeatedly executes the above steps S5402 to S5408. Thus, the opening / closing operation of the first variable winning device 30 is continuously executed until the actual round number reaches the set execution round number (15 times or 16 times).

  When the actual number of rounds reaches the set number of execution rounds (step S5404: YES), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5410.

  Step S5410, Step S5412: In this case, when the main control CPU 72 resets the round number counter (= 0), it sets the next jump destination to the end process.

  Step S5408: The main control CPU 72 resets the winning ball counter and returns to the variable winning device management process. As a result, when the main control CPU 72 next executes the variable winning device management process, the end process is selected this time.

[Small hit]
On the other hand, in the case of a small hit, the procedure is as follows (special operation execution means).
Step S5411: When the main control CPU 72 confirms that the current game is not playing a major role (step S5401: No), the main control CPU 72 increments the value of the number-of-releases counter.

  Step S5413: Next, the main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the value of the incremented number-of-releases counter has reached the set number of times of release. The number of times of opening is set in the previous small hitting big winning opening opening pattern setting process (step S5258 in FIG. 34). If the value of the opening number counter has not yet reached the set opening number (No), the main control CPU 72 executes step S5416.

Step S5416: The main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination in the special winning opening / closing operation process.
Step S5408: The main control CPU 72 resets the winning ball counter and returns to the variable winning device management process.

  When the main control CPU 72 next executes a variable winning device management process, the main control CPU 72 executes a big prize opening opening / closing operation process as the next jump destination in the game process selection process (step S5100 in FIG. 30). Then, after the execution of the special prize opening / closing operation process, the main control CPU 72 executes the special prize opening closing process again through the execution of the special prize opening closing process, and goes through the above steps S5401 to S5413 (No) to step S5416. Step S5408 is repeatedly executed. As a result, the opening / closing operation of the second variable winning device 31 is repeatedly executed until the actual number of times of opening reaches the set number of times of opening.

  When the actual number of times of opening at the small hit reaches the set number of times of opening (step S5413: Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5414.

  Step S5414, Step S5412: In this case, the main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the end process when the release counter is reset (= 0).

  Step S5408: The main control CPU 72 resets the winning ball counter and returns to the variable winning device management process. As a result, when the main control CPU 72 next executes the variable winning device management process, the end process is selected this time.

〔End processing〕
FIG. 43 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the end process. This end process is for preparing conditions for ending the operation of the first variable winning device 30 and the second variable winning device 31. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along the example of a procedure.

  Step S5502: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the value of the big hit flag (01H) is set, and if the value of the big hit flag is set (Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5503. To do.

  Step S5503, Step S5504: In this case, the main control CPU 72 resets the big hit flag (00H). As a result, the big hit gaming state ends on the control processing of the main control CPU 72. In addition, the main control CPU 72 deletes “big hit” from the internal state flag and declares the end of the major role as the internal state in the control processing. The main control CPU 72 resets the value of the continuous operation number status.

  Step S5510: Next, the main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the value of the time reduction function operation flag (01H) is set. This flag is also used for the big hit other setting process (step S2414 in FIG. 17) during the previous special symbol variation pre-processing, or the specific area passing time shortening function setting process during the previous specific region passing process ( It is set in step S5370) in FIG.

  Step S5512: If the value of the time shortening function operation flag is set (step S5510: Yes), the main control CPU 72 sets the number of time shortening (for example, 5 times). The value of the set time reduction count is stored in the time count area of the RAM 76 as described above. The number of times of time reduction set here is the upper limit number of times to shorten the variation time of the special symbol in subsequent games. If the value of the time shortening function activation flag is not set (step S5510: No), the main control CPU 72 does not execute step S5512.

  Step S5514: Then, the main control CPU 72 generates a state designation command based on the flag. Specifically, a state designation command representing “normal” is generated as the gaming state when the big hit flag is reset or the big game ends. If the time shortening function operation flag is set, a state designation command representing “time shortening” is generated as the internal state. These state designation commands are transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process.

  The procedure so far is a big hit, but in the case of a big hit (step S5502: No), the following procedure is executed.

  Steps S5520 and S5522: In the case of a small hit, the main control CPU 72 resets the value of the small hit flag (00H), and deletes “small hit game” from the internal state flag. It should be noted that in the case of a small hit, the internal condition device does not operate in particular, so such a procedure is merely for the purpose of erasing the flag.

  Step S5516: After the above procedure, the main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination in the special winning opening opening pattern setting process.

  Step S5518: The main control CPU 72 sets the jump destination in the execution selection process (step S1000 in FIG. 16) in the special symbol game process to the special symbol change pre-process. When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the variable winning device management process.

〔Timing chart〕
FIG. 44 is a diagram showing a timing chart showing characteristic development occurring in the pachinko machine 1.

As shown in FIG. 44 (A), the gaming state includes a non-time shortening state, a time shortening state, and a big hit gaming state.
The player first starts the game from the non-time shortened state, the winning result is obtained with the first special symbol, and the first winning symbol or the second winning symbol (predetermined transition condition for shifting to the time shortening state) If the winning symbol satisfying () is satisfied, the game shifts to the time reduction state via the jackpot gaming state.

  As shown in FIG. 44 (B), when the game ball passes through the start gate 20 in the time shortening state (time t1), the normal symbol starts to change. Here, it is assumed that the fluctuation time of 30 seconds is selected. In the time shortening state, the normal symbol is won with a probability of about one in one. Therefore, when the normal symbol is stopped and displayed in the winning mode after 30 seconds, the variable start winning device 28 (general power) is released (time t2). ).

When one game ball wins the variable start winning device 28, the variable start winning device 28 is closed.
The second special symbol lottery is executed in conjunction with winning the variable start winning device 28. In this case, it is assumed that a small win is won. Then, the second special symbol starts changing for 20 seconds.

  When the variable start winning device 28 is closed, the normal symbol can be changed, and even when the normal symbol is stored or not stored, the game ball passes through the start gate 20 to change the normal symbol again. Starts (time t2). Here, it is assumed that the variation time of the normal symbol of 10 seconds is selected.

In this case, since the variation of the normal symbol is completed before the variation of the second special symbol is completed (time t3), the variable start winning device 28 is opened again. When one game ball wins the variable start winning device 28, the variable start winning device 28 is closed.
In this case, one memory of the second special symbol is accumulated, and thereby a chance to generate the in-memory extended resort is determined.

  When the variable start winning device 28 is closed, the normal symbol can be changed, and even when the normal symbol is stored or not stored, the game ball passes through the start gate 20 to change the normal symbol again. Starts (time t3). Here, it is assumed that the variation time of the normal symbol of 30 seconds is selected. This variation ends at time t5.

In this case, since the variation of the normal symbol does not end before the variation of the second special symbol ends (before time t4), the variable start prize is received before the variation of the second special symbol ends. The device 28 does not open. Then, when the change of the special symbol is completed at time t4, the small hit game is started by the second variable winning device 31, and when the game ball passes the specific area 31x during the small hit game, the big hit game is started.
As described above, the period from the time t2 to the time t4 is a period in which the memory of the second special symbol can be stored, and a zone in which a chance to generate the in-memory ream can be acquired.

[Example of production image]
Next, the effect image actually displayed on the liquid crystal display 42 in the pachinko machine 1 will be described with some examples. As described above, when the big hit internal lottery is performed in the pachinko machine 1, the variation pattern (variation time) is determined under the control of the main control CPU 72, and the variation display by the first special symbol and the second special symbol is performed. (Design display means). However, as described above, the first special symbol and the second special symbol itself are lighted and blinked by 7-segment LEDs, so that they have poor appeal. Similarly, the stop display mode of the first special symbol or the second special symbol by the first symbol display device 34 or the second symbol display device 35 is also a symbolic design by 7 segment LED or the like. The visual impact of " Therefore, in the pachinko machine 1, the variable display effect and the stop display effect using the effect symbol are performed as described above.

  The effect symbols include, for example, a left effect symbol, a middle effect symbol, and a right effect symbol, which are displayed side by side on the left, middle, and right on the screen of the liquid crystal display 42. Each effect design is a design of a picture card with a character attached together with the numbers “1” to “9”, for example. Here, the left effect symbol, the middle effect symbol, and the right effect symbol all constitute a symbol row (effect symbol array) arranged in descending order of numbers “9” to “1”. Such a symbol sequence is variably displayed so as to flow (scroll) in the vertical direction in the left region, middle region, and right region on the screen. In addition, although scroll is mentioned as an example here, it is also possible to change the effect symbols in a manner in which each effect symbol is rearranged in order or in turn while being reversed. In addition, the scrolling direction may be not only the vertical direction but also the horizontal direction, and the scrolling is performed in a state in which each effect symbol is gradually enlarged and displayed from the back side to the near side of the screen. An aspect may be sufficient.

  FIG. 45 is a continuous diagram showing an example of the effect image corresponding to the change display and stop display of the special symbol. Here, an example of the change display effect and the stop display effect performed using the effect symbol is shown for the variation of the special symbol at the time of non-winning (out). This variable display effect corresponds to a series of effects performed from when the special symbol (here, the first special symbol) starts the variable display until the stop display (including the fixed stop). Further, the stop display effect is an effect that represents that the special symbol is stopped and displayed and the result of the internal lottery at that time is a combination of the effect symbols. Here, before explaining the specific contents of the control processing, the basic flow of the change display effect and stop display effect for each change employed in the present embodiment will be described.

[Before change display]
45 (A): For example, in the state before the first special symbol starts to fluctuate (the state in which the demonstration effect is not being performed), a row of three effect symbols is displayed large on the screen of the liquid crystal display 42. ing. At this time, in accordance with the stop display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol, the effect symbol is also stopped. In the present embodiment, the left, middle, and right effect symbols are arranged one by one at the time of stop display, and the three effect symbols form a combination (so-called one-line display). A combination of effect symbols may be configured not only on a horizontal line but also on a diagonal line by stopping and displaying two or more effect symbols in a row.

  In addition, a marker indicating the number of working memories of the first special symbol (reference numeral M1 in the figure) is displayed at the lower part of the screen of the liquid crystal display 42. This marker M1 represents the number of working memories of the first special symbol corresponding to the number of displays (the number of displays of the first special symbol working memory lamp 34a), and the number of displayed in conjunction with the change of the number of working memories during the game. Also increase or decrease. Further, for the marker M1, the marker M1 corresponding to the first special symbol is displayed as, for example, a circle (◯) in order to facilitate visual discrimination. Here, four markers M1 are displayed. Of these, the leftmost marker M1 in the screen represents the oldest working memory, and the marker M1 adjacent to the right is the second oldest working memory. (Memory number display effect execution means).

  Further, during the variation display of the effect symbols, for example, the fourth symbol (reference numerals Z1 and Z2 are added in the diagram) is displayed at the lower part of the screen of the liquid crystal display 42. The fourth symbols Z1 and Z2 are “fourth effect symbols” following the left, middle, and right effect symbols, and are displayed in a synchronized manner during the change display of the effect symbols. Note that the fourth symbols Z1 and Z2 are simple marks (for example, “□” figure) with colors, and for example, changing the display color can express a variable display. The fourth symbol Z1 corresponds to the first special symbol, and the fourth symbol Z2 corresponds to the second special symbol.

  Further, the fourth symbols Z1, Z2 are stopped and displayed in a mode (for example, white display color) corresponding to the dislocation. This is to objectively clarify that the stop display effect is correctly performed corresponding to the stop display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol, and that the pachinko machine 1 is operating normally. Is. Therefore, if the result of the internal lottery is actually “first winning symbol” or “fourth winning symbol” instead of “out of”, the corresponding mode (for example, blue display color or red display color) is used. The four symbols Z1, Z2 are stopped and displayed.

[Variable display production start]
45B: For example, in synchronization with the start of fluctuation of the first special symbol, the variable display effect is started by scrolling the three symbol rows on the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42 (symbol). Production execution means). In other words, in synchronization with the start of fluctuation of the first special symbol, the display of the left effect symbol, the middle effect symbol, and the right effect symbol is scrolled (flowed) in the vertical direction on the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42 so as to change the display. Production begins. In the figure, the effect symbol variation display is simply indicated by a downward arrow. Also, during the variable display, each effect symbol is displayed in a transparent state (transparent display), and at this time, an image (background image) that is the background of the effect symbol is displayed on the display screen in an easily visible state. Has been.

  The background image in this case represents a park landscape. Such a background image expresses that the stay mode in the production is, for example, “normal mode”. In the present embodiment, the “normal mode” corresponds to a normal state in which the above-described variation time reduction function is inactive. In addition to this, various modes are provided for effects, and background images with different landscapes and scenes are prepared for each mode (status display effect execution means). The difference between these modes may correspond to an internal “time reduction state”. The mode corresponding to each internal state will be further described later. Although not specifically illustrated here, a mode in which a notice effect is performed by displaying an image of a character, an item, or the like on the display screen after that is also possible.

  Further, during the variation display of the effect symbols, the fourth symbol Z1 is variably displayed at the lower part of the screen of the liquid crystal display 42, and the fourth symbol Z1 expresses the variation display by changing its display color.

[Left design stop]
45 (C): For example, when a certain amount of time (about half of the fluctuation time) has elapsed, the left effect design first stops changing. In this example, the effect symbol representing the number “8” is stopped at the middle position of the screen. Here, illustration of the background image is omitted (the same applies to the following).

[Example of production when the number of working memories decreases]
Here, as shown in (B) of FIG. 45, since the number of working memories of the oldest first special symbol decreases by one as the fluctuation starts, it is linked to the leftmost position accordingly. The number of displayed markers M1 is reduced by one. In other words, the total number of working memories of the marker M1 has been four so far, but the marker M1 which is the oldest (oldest) memory number display is not displayed, and the effects consumed by the internal lottery are also performed. Is called. As a result, the player can be instructed that the total number of working memories has decreased to three, and the working memory corresponding to any special symbol (in this case, the first special symbol) is consumed. Can be taught in an easy-to-understand manner.

  In the example of (C) in FIG. 45, since the first working memory in the storage order is consumed and the remaining number becomes three, the three markers M1 remaining on the screen are each one by one. An effect of shifting in the direction (here left direction) is performed. As a result, the context of the change in the number of working memories can be accurately expressed in the production, and the player can be intuitively and easily informed that the working memory has been consumed and decreased by one. it can.

[Right production symbol stop]
In FIG. 45 (D): After the left effect symbol, the right effect symbol thereafter stops changing. In this example, the effect symbol representing the number “3” is stopped at the middle position of the screen. Since it has already been determined that the reach state does not occur at this point, it is almost apparent from the fact that this variation is a deviation variation pattern. Here, reach fluctuations due to slip patterns and the like are excluded. “Slip pattern” means, for example, that once the design symbol representing the number “7” stops, the design symbol slips by one symbol and the design symbol representing the number “8” stops, thereby developing reach It is to do. Alternatively, once the design symbol representing the number “9” stops, the design symbol that represents the number “8” stops as the design sequence slips by one symbol in the opposite direction. is there. In addition, for example, when a production symbol representing a completely different number such as “5” is temporarily stopped and a character appears on the screen and the right production symbol row is changed again, the number “8” is changed. There is also a pattern in which the effect design to be expressed stops and develops to reach.

[Stop display effect]
(E) in FIG. 45: The last medium effect symbol stops in synchronization with the stop display of the first special symbol. If the result of the current internal lottery is non-winning and the first special symbol is stopped and displayed in a non-winning (out-of-game) manner, the staging display effect is also performed in a non-winning (out-of-game) manner. Is called. That is, in the illustrated example, the effect symbol representing the number “1” is stopped at the middle position of the screen. In this case, the combination of the effect symbols is “8”-“1”-“3”. Since this is a gap, it is expressed in the production that the current variation corresponds to the normal “out of range”. At this time, the fourth symbol Z1 is stopped and displayed in a mode (for example, white display color) corresponding to the dislocation.

  The above is an example of the change display effect and the stop display effect (during non-winning) performed using the effect symbol for each change. Through such an effect, the player can have a sense of expectation for winning, and finally the result of the internal lottery can be clearly taught in the effect.

  In addition, the above example is for the case of non-winning, but at the time of big win (winning), after the reach effect is executed during the variable display effect, the effect symbol is stopped and displayed in a big win mode in the stop display effect. At this time, the stop display mode of the effect symbol basically corresponds to the winning symbol (stop display mode of the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35) selected internally by the main control CPU 72. Selected.

[Production example at the time of big hit]
FIG. 46 is a continuous diagram showing the flow of reach production executed in the big hit (winning). Here, in addition to the reach effect, a variable display effect, a stop display effect, and a notice effect are included. In addition, in this effect example, an example of a stop display effect that indicates which winning symbol is represented using an aspect (specific aspect or non-specific aspect) that represents the relevance of the winning symbol of the effect symbol. To do. In addition, an example of a notice effect (pre-reach notice notice effect, reach notice notice effect) executed during the variable display effect will be described.

  In the following reach production, after the first special symbol display device 34 performs the variation display by the variation pattern at the time of the big hit, the first special symbol is the mode of the “first winning symbol” or the “third winning symbol” (for example, 7 segment LED “Self”, “Yo”, “Mouth”, “巳”, “F”, “E”, “L”, “Γ”, etc.) are executed until they are stopped (reach effect) Execution means). In addition, in FIG. 46, each production | presentation symbol is simplified and shown only as the number. Further, the marker M1 and the fourth symbols Z1, Z2 are not shown here. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along the flow of production.

[Variable display effects]
46 (A): The left effect symbol, middle effect symbol, and right effect symbol columns are vertically displayed on the screen of the liquid crystal display 42 substantially in synchronization with the start of fluctuation of the first special symbol (or the second special symbol). The variable display effect is started by scrolling in a direction (for example, from top to bottom).

[Preliminary production before reach (first stage)]
46 (B): Next, at a relatively early stage of the variable display effect, the first stage pre-reach notice effect using the character image (picture card) is performed. This pre-reach pre-announcement effect is a pre-announcement effect in which the change of the mode progresses in stages from one stage to a plurality of stages (for example, 2 to 5 stages) according to a predetermined order. The pattern image used in the pre-reach notice effect is located in front of the effect pattern that is displayed on the screen in a variable manner, for example, so as to appear suddenly from the left edge of the screen (other appearance modes) May be.) Note that the “pre-reach notice” means that a reach or a big hit is announced before any effect symbol is stopped and displayed. By executing such a “pre-reach announcement effect”, an effect of giving the player a sense of expectation that “it may develop into a reach = the possibility of a big hit increases” is obtained.

[Advance notice before the reach occurs (second stage)]
In FIG. 46 (C): after the first stage of the pre-reach notice effect is executed, the change of the pre-reach notice effect proceeds to the second stage. Here, an effect using a character pattern image different from the previous one is performed as the notice effect before the occurrence of reach in the second stage. Specifically, another pattern image additionally appears from the right end of the screen, and is displayed so as to overlap the front of the previously displayed pattern image. The picture image displayed at this time is larger in size than the picture image displayed previously. And the effect by the sound output that the character expressed by the picture image emits a dialogue (for example, “I will reach” etc.) is also performed.

  Such a pre-reach notice announcement effect (second stage) using the second pattern image is one step further than the pre-reach notice effect (first stage) performed in FIG. 46 (B). It is a development type. In general, it may be expressed as “step-up notice” or the like, referring to the “pre-reach notice notice effect” that develops in this way. Here, an example is given in which the second-stage pattern image appears in the pre-reach notice effect, but the third-stage, fourth-stage, and fifth-stage pattern images appear and appear one after another. There may be. Further, for example, the size may be enlarged each time the third, fourth, and fifth-stage pattern images appear and appear one after another. Even at this stage, the variation display of the effect symbols is continued. In any case, it is possible to indicate to the player that there is a high possibility (expectation) that this change will be a big hit by making the change in the aspect of the pre-reach notice effect to more stages. (For example, the maximum expectation is suggested when progressing to the fifth stage).

[Stop of left design]
In FIG. 46, (D): The middle stage of the variable display effect is approached, and then the variable display of the left effect symbol is stopped. At this point, the effect design representing the number “7” is stopped at the left position of the screen.

[Generation of reach condition]
(E) in FIG. 46: Next to the left effect symbol, for example, the change display of the right effect symbol is stopped. At this time, the effect symbol representing the number “7” is stopped at the right position of the screen, and therefore, a reach state of “7”-“being changed”-“7” has occurred. On the screen, an image that emphasizes one line that is in a reach state is also displayed. In addition, an effect of outputting a voice such as “Reach!” Is performed.

  After the reach state occurs, the reach production at the time of winning is executed (however, at this point in time, the winning result has not yet been expressed). In the reach production, only the production symbols corresponding to the tempered number (here, “7”) are displayed on the screen, and the others are not displayed. At this time, the effect symbols may be displayed in a reduced state at the four corners of the screen.

[Preliminary notice after reach occurs (first time)]
In FIG. 46, (F): When the reach state occurs, for a while, for example, an image representing a “heart” figure forms a group, and an after-reach notice effect (first time) is performed that passes diagonally on the screen. . In this case, the image of the “heart group” is suddenly displayed on the screen so that the visual appeal to the player can be enhanced. By executing such a notice effect after the visually lively reach occurs, the player can have an even greater expectation.

[Progress of reach production]
In FIG. 46 (G): Following the announcement effect after the first reach, for example, images representing the numbers “2” to “8” are displayed in a three-dimensional column on the screen. There is an effect in which numerical images are erased from the screen in the order of “2”, “3”, “4”. Such an effect is also performed for the purpose of suggesting (impliciting) or reminding the player that the number “7” remains without being erased to the end. If the number “6” is deleted and “7” remains in front of the screen, it means “big hit”, and if the number “7” is also deleted, it means “out of place”. In the case of a loss, for example, the number “8” is displayed on the screen after the number “7” is deleted. Therefore, during this time, the numbers “2”, “3”, “4”... Are erased in order, and as the order of the number “7” approaches, the player's tension and expectations The feeling will also increase. After this, for example, if up to the number “5” is erased on the screen, the next time the number “6” is finally erased, the possibility of a “big hit” increases, so there is a player's tension. A feeling increases at a stretch.

[Preliminary notice after the occurrence of reach (second time)]
In FIG. 46 (H): When the reach production is approaching the final stage, the image of the character is suddenly displayed on the screen as if it was split into a close-up, and the content that the character emits some dialogue (or silently) (The content may be a smile) The notice effect (second time) is performed after the occurrence of reach (cut-in effect). At this time, for example, the content of the reach effect is a development that “if the number“ 6 ”is erased, then the possibility of a big hit of“ 7 ”-“ 7 ”-“ 7 ”increases” ”. Therefore, by causing a character image to appear greatly at this timing, an effect of giving the player a sense of expectation that “may be a big hit” is obtained.

[Stop display effect]
In FIG. 46 (I): At the end of the variation time of the first special symbol, the last medium effect symbol stops. In this example, since it is assumed that the winning symbol corresponds to “first winning symbol” internally, the effect symbol representing the number “7” is temporarily stopped on the effect. In addition, when it corresponds to the “3rd winning symbol”, it may be possible to stop and display the effect symbol representing the number “6” at the center of the screen, and when it corresponds to the “first winning symbol” However, this time, an effect may be given that temporarily teaches the player that “the game was a big hit with a design other than“ 3 ”and“ 7 ”. The case corresponding to the “second winning symbol” will be further described later with reference to another continuous diagram.

  (J) in FIG. 46: Subsequently, a fixed stop display effect is performed in which the combination of effect symbols is a large copy on the entire display screen. In this example, a combination of effect symbols (“7”-“7”-“7”) corresponding to the number “7” is displayed in an enlarged manner, and right and left effect symbols centered on the middle effect symbol are displayed on the display screen. It is displayed in a large scale throughout. By performing such confirmation stop display, the player can be informed that the final winning type has been confirmed in the production. In this case, the fourth symbol Z1 is stopped and displayed in a mode (for example, red display color) corresponding to the “first special symbol”.

[Director during big role]
FIG. 47 to FIG. 50 are continuous diagrams partially showing an example of the big role production executed during the big hit game when winning in the internal lottery concerning the first special symbol. Here, it is assumed that the winning type is “first winning symbol” or “third winning symbol” in the first winning from the normal state (“low probability state” and “non-time reduction state”).

[Big hit game start]
47 (A): When the jackpot game is started, for example, character information such as “BIG BONUS” is displayed on the screen, and an effect image (for example, a female character) unique to the jackpot game is displayed. .

(Displays “right-handed” during major roles)
In the present embodiment, since the first variable winning device 30 is arranged in the right portion in the game area 8a, the right portion in the game area 8a is designated as the launch position (launch direction) of the game ball during the major role. I am going to do that. For this reason, the above-mentioned launch position designation lamp 38f is lit and displayed under the control of the main control CPU 72, and a launch position designation command representing “right-handed” is transmitted to the effect control device 124. In response to this, guidance information (such as an arrow indicating a right direction, a “right-handed” character, etc.) prompting “right-handed” is displayed on the display screen under the effect control by the effect control CPU 126).

[Round 1]
47 (B): When the first round of the big hit game is started, for example, four ◯ marks are displayed in the upper left part of the screen together with the character information “BIG BONUS”. The circle mark located at the leftmost position is displayed in red, and the remaining three circle marks are displayed in white. As a result, it is possible to obtain four rounds, that the current round is the first of the four rounds, and that each time a round in which a round can be earned progresses, The player can be instructed to be displayed in red.

[Round 4]
In FIG. 47 (C): Thereafter, the big hit game proceeds smoothly, and, for example, when the fourth round is reached, for example, all four circles are displayed in red. Thereby, it is possible to tell the player that all the rounds in which the ball can be obtained in the fourth round are finished.

[Direction during no rounds]
In FIG. 47 (D): When the round (fourth round) in which a ball can be obtained is completed, a round without ball is started. When the round without starting a ball is started, for example, the character information such as “HYPER RUSH CHALLENGE” is displayed on the screen, and an effect during the round without ball is executed. The effect during the round without playing can tell the player whether the winning type is the “first winning symbol” or the “third winning symbol” for the current big hit game. In other words, whether or not it corresponds to the “first winning symbol” in which the internal state is reduced in time after the end of the jackpot game for 4 rounds, or the end of the jackpot game for 8 rounds The player can be instructed as to whether the internal state corresponds to the “third winning symbol” that becomes the normal state (non-time shortened state) later.

  In FIG. 48 (E): Then, when the performance during the round without taking a ball advances, for example, text information such as “If you hit the button repeatedly to drop the heart character, enter HYPER RUSH mode!” Is displayed on the screen. , The effect that a female character emits a similar line is executed. As a result, the player is instructed whether or not to enter the HYPER RUSH mode that represents the time-saving state as an internal state depending on whether or not the heart acting item 40f falls as a result of continuously pressing the effect switching button 45. be able to.

  In FIG. 48 (F): Furthermore, when the performance during the round without advancing progresses, for example, text information such as “EXTRA BONUS even if it fails” is displayed on the screen, and the effect that the female character emits the same line is produced. Executed. As a result, when the effect switch button 45 is continuously pressed, if the heart accessory 40f does not fall, it does not enter the HYPER RUSH mode representing the time-reduced state as the internal state, but a round in which the player can win the ball is started. Can be taught to the player.

[Button press effect]
In FIG. 48 (G): For example, an image simulating the effect switching button 45 is displayed in the front of the screen, and character information “repetitive hitting !!” is displayed above the effect switching button 45. Thereby, the player can be prompted to repeatedly hit the effect switching button 45. When the player depresses the effect switching button 45, the effect switching button 45 representing the pressed state is displayed, and at the same time, the image imitating the effect switching button 45 is “Bashi!” “Bashi!” An effect may be performed in which an onomatopoeia when the effect switching button 45 is pressed is displayed as character information.

[Successful button press effect]
In FIG. 48 (H): When the type of the winning symbol at the time of the big hit is the first winning symbol, the button pressing success effect of dropping the movable body 40f to the front side of the liquid crystal display 42 is executed. Thereby, it can be taught to the player that the game in which the effect switching button 45 is continuously hit is successful.

  In FIG. 49, (I): A female character appears, character information such as “Great success! Congratulations ★” is displayed, and an effect in which the female character emits a similar line is executed. Thereby, the player can be instructed to enter the “HYPER RUSH mode” representing the time reduction state.

[Time reduction state entry effect (ordinary symbol lottery opportunity promotion effect)]
In FIG. 49 (J): At the end of the jackpot game, character information such as “HYPER RUSH mode entry!” Is displayed using the end time (ending time), and the effect that the female character emits a similar line is produced. Executed. Thereby, it is possible to tell the player that the “HYPER RUSH mode” representing the time reduction state will be started. In addition, character information such as “Please make a right stroke as it is” is displayed together with an arrow indicating the right direction, and it is possible to teach the player that the game proceeds with a right stroke even in a time-saving state.

[End of jackpot game, reduced time]
In FIG. 49 (K): When the big hit game is finished and the internal state (game state) is set to the time reduction state, the stay mode is set to “time reduction mode (HYPER RUSH mode)”, and the background image Changed to represent a woman sprinting in a car. Thereby, it is possible to teach the player that the current internal state (game state) is a time-reduced state different from the normal state.

[Button press failure production]
In FIG. 50 (H): On the other hand, when the type of winning symbol at the time of the big hit is not the first winning symbol but the third winning symbol, a female character appears after the button pressing effect in FIG. 48 (G). , "Sorry ... but EXTRA BONUS starts" is displayed, and the effect that a female character emits a similar line is executed. Thus, the player can be instructed that a round in which the player can get a ball can be added without entering the “HYPER RUSH mode” representing the time reduction state.

[12th round]
In FIG. 50, (I): When EXTRA BONUS is started, for example, eight circles are displayed together with the character information of “EXTRA BONUS” in the upper left part of the screen. Among them, the upper four circles and the first leftmost circle are displayed in red, and the remaining three circles are displayed in white. As a result, the player can be informed that the number of rounds from which the player can get another ball has been added, and that the current round is the fifth of the eight rounds. In addition, from the 5th round to the 11th round, there is no round, and during that time, the button press production and the button press failure production are executed. doing.

[15th round]
In FIG. 50 (J): After this, the jackpot game proceeds smoothly. For example, when the game moves to the 15th round (final round), for example, all eight characters together with the text information “EXTRA BONUS” in the upper left part of the screen. The ○ mark is displayed in red. Thereby, it is possible to tell the player that all the rounds in which the ball can be obtained in the eighth round are finished.

[Big hit game end, normal state]
In FIG. 50 (K): When the big hit game ends and the internal state (game state) is set to the normal state, the stay mode is set to “normal mode (park mode)”, and the background image shows the park. Changed to represent. Thereby, it is possible to teach the player that the current internal state (game state) is a normal state different from the time reduction state. In addition, a female character appears, character information such as “Return to left-handed” is displayed, and an effect that the female character emits a similar line is executed. Thereby, it is possible to teach the player that the game proceeds in a state where the player has left-handed.

  In this way, when the first special symbol is won (corresponding to a big win), the big hit game is started with an open pattern based on the winning symbol at the time of winning (at the time of the big win). When the first winning symbol is met, when the round in which 4 rounds can be obtained is completed, the button press effect and the button press success effect are executed during the no-play round, and the jackpot game is played along with the time-saving state entry effect. It will end. On the other hand, when the third winning symbol is met, when a round in which four rounds can be obtained is completed, a button press effect or a button press failure effect is executed during the no-round, and then four rounds are played. The jackpot game will end after a round in which you can win. In this way, whether or not the time reduction state is set after the end of the big hit game is determined depending on the type of winning symbol, but the “HYPER RUSH mode” representing the time reduction state during the big hit game (during no round) By telling whether or not to enter the game with the effect (button press effect), it is possible to suppress a decrease in interest in the game.

[Example of the first production during the time reduction state]
51 to 56 are continuous diagrams showing a first effect example executed during the time reduction state. The first effect example shows a successful example in which the memory of the second special symbol can be stored. In this embodiment, the variation time of the special symbol (mainly the second special symbol) in the time shortening state is set to a fixed time, and the internal lottery regarding the second special symbol makes it easy to win a small hit (Winning probability is 1/1 /).

  In FIG. 51 (A): When an effect in the time reduction mode (HYPER RUSH mode) is started, for example, an effect that expresses how a female character rides a car and runs on the ground in the center of the screen is executed. . In this way, the player can be informed that the game state has been changed from the normal mode (for example, a background image representing a park) to the time reduction mode (HYPER RUSH mode).

[Direction display for special designs]
In addition, an effect symbol related to the special symbol is displayed in the upper left corner of the screen. In this example, it is indicated that the stop symbol is displayed in a combination of “7”-“7”-“7”. When the time reduction mode progresses and the special symbol variation display (stop display) is started, the accompanying variable display effect (stop display effect) is also performed for the special symbol related to the special symbol located in the upper left corner of the screen. Represents that

[4th symbol display for special symbols]
In the lower right corner of the screen, a fourth symbol Z1 related to the first special symbol and a fourth symbol Z2 related to the second special symbol are displayed. In this example, the first special symbol in the last variation display is displayed. It is shown that the 4th symbol Z1 at the time of the big hit is displayed in a red display color in a mode representing winning. When the short-time mode is advanced and the variation display (stop display) of the special symbol is started, the variable display effect (stop display) linked to the fourth symbol Z1, Z2 related to the special symbol located in the lower right corner of the screen is accordingly accompanied. This represents that (production) is executed.

[Start of special symbol changes]
In FIG. 51 (B): Since the memory of the first special symbol is often stored at the first hit with the first special symbol, the first special symbol is displayed in a variable manner when entering the time reduction mode at the first hit. Is done. In addition, when the memory | storage of the 1st special symbol is not accumulated, the fluctuation | variation of a 2nd special symbol may be performed first. Then, the variable display effect of the first special symbol is started, and accordingly, the variable display effect is also executed in conjunction with the effect symbol related to the special symbol located in the upper left corner and the lower right corner of the screen and the fourth symbol Z1. It is assumed that the internal lottery regarding the first special symbol corresponds to a loss.

[End of special symbol changes]
In FIG. 51 (C): Since the variation time of the first special symbol in the time shortening state is set to the shortened variation time, the first special symbol is immediately stopped and displayed in a shifted manner. The effect symbol and the fourth symbol Z1 are also stopped and displayed in an out-of-phase manner. During this time, the player has made a right strike, a plurality of game balls have passed through the start gate 20, the variable start winning device 28 has been opened, and one game ball has entered the right start winning port 28a. To do. In this case, the number of normal symbols stored is the number obtained by subtracting 1 from the number of game balls that have passed through the start gate 20.

  In FIG. 51 (D): When one game ball is won in the right start winning opening 28a, an internal lottery regarding the second special symbol is executed. Then, the variable display effect of the second special symbol is started, and accordingly, the variable display effect is also executed in conjunction with the effect symbol related to the special symbol located in the upper left corner and the lower right corner of the screen and the fourth symbol Z2. In the internal lottery regarding the second special symbol, it is assumed that a small win is won. For this reason, the variation time of the second special symbol is a fixed time (20 seconds). In this embodiment, since the normal symbol also has a memory, when the right start winning opening 28a is closed, the variation of the normal symbol starts. Here, it is assumed that the variation time of the normal symbol is 5 seconds.

[Suggested production during special symbol changes (advance judgment production)]
In FIG. 52 (E): Also, in this example, a panda character having a placard on which characters “hot” are displayed appears from the right of the screen during the variation display of the second special symbol. Furthermore, an effect is performed in which a female character in a car notices a panda character. This effect suggests that lottery elements having a short variation time are stored in the memory of ordinary symbols.

[Variable start winning device opening effect]
In FIG. 52 (F): When the variation time of the normal symbol is 5 seconds, the variable start winning device opening effect is executed. In the example shown in the figure, an effect in which an animal character appears from the upper left position of the screen is executed, and the animal character utters the line “Buta Chance”.
When the normal symbol is stopped and displayed in a winning manner 5 seconds after the start of fluctuation, the variable start winning device 28 is opened. The second special symbol is changing and the fourth symbol Z2 is changing.

[In-memory Renso chance acquisition production]
In FIG. 52 (G): When a game ball enters while the variable start winning device 28 is open, an in-memory recreation chance acquisition effect is executed. In the example shown in the figure, an effect is performed in which the animal character displayed at the upper left position of the screen displays a “mark with a number 7”. As a result, the player can be informed that he has a chance to play a memory in the memory.

  (H) in FIG. 52: The effect in the time reduction mode is continued. The second special symbol is changing and the fourth symbol Z2 is changing.

[Variable start winning device opening effect]
In FIG. 53 (I): Here, it is assumed that the normal symbol starts to fluctuate again and the fluctuation time is 5 seconds. In this case, the variable start winning device opening effect is executed again. In the example shown in the figure, an effect in which an animal character appears from the upper left position of the screen is executed, and the animal character utters the line “Buta Chance”. When the normal symbol is stopped and displayed in a winning manner 5 seconds after the start of fluctuation, the variable start winning device 28 is opened. The second special symbol is changing and the fourth symbol Z2 is changing.

[In-memory Renso chance acquisition production]
In FIG. 53 (J): When a game ball enters while the variable start winning device 28 is open, an in-memory recreation chance acquisition effect is executed. In the example shown in the figure, an effect is performed in which the animal character displayed at the upper left position of the screen displays a “mark with a number 7”. As a result, the player can be informed that he has had a chance to play twice in memory.

  In FIG. 53 (K): The effect in the time reduction mode is continued. The second special symbol is changing and the fourth symbol Z2 is changing.

[Starting a small hit, opening the second big prize opening]
53 (L): When the stop display is performed in the small hit state of the second special symbol, the effect symbol and the fourth symbol Z2 located in the upper left corner and the lower right corner in the screen indicate the small hit. (A combination of “5”-“2”-“6”, green display color) is stopped and displayed, a small hit game is started, and the second big prize opening 31b is opened. Then, an effect is performed in which the car on which the female character is riding increases the speed and proceeds to the right side of the screen.

[Passing specific area]
In FIG. 54, (M): the second variable winning device 31 shifts to an open state due to the small hit game, the game ball passes through the specific area 31x, and the winning symbol type at the small hit is the eighth winning symbol or the ninth winning symbol. Assume a winning design. In this example, a female character in a car raises a heart mark with the letter V and produces an effect that produces a dialogue such as “Yeah! BIG BONUS!”. Accordingly, it is possible to teach the player that the game ball has passed through the specific area 31x and that a big hit game (BIG BONUS) will be started from now on.

[End of jackpot, start of jackpot game]
In FIG. 54 (N): Thereafter, the small hit game is finished, and the second variable winning device 31 (second big winning port 31b) is closed. Further, the big hit game is started when the game ball passes through the specific area 31x during the small hit game. In this example, a female character peculiar to the big hit game appears, character information such as “BIG BONUS” is displayed, and an effect in which the female character emits a similar line is executed. In addition, on the display screen, character information such as “Please make a right strike” is displayed together with an arrow indicating the right direction, and the player can be instructed that the big hit game proceeds by making a right strike.

  Thereafter, the process proceeds to (B) in FIG. 47, and an effect during the big hit game similar to the above is started, and the game proceeds. For example, if the type of winning symbol at the time of a small hit with respect to the second special symbol corresponds to the eighth winning symbol, after performing an effect during the round in which four rounds can be obtained, a button pressing effect or a button pressing successful effect An effect of rushing into the “HYPER RUSH mode” representing the time reduction state is executed. In addition, when the type of winning symbol at the time of small hits related to the second special symbol corresponds to the ninth winning symbol, a button pressing effect or a button pressing failure effect, EXTRA, after the effect during the round in which four rounds can be obtained. An effect of returning to the normal state is executed through the BONUS effect (effect during the round in which the remaining four rounds can be obtained). However, even when returning to the normal state, since the memory of the second special symbol is stored, there is a possibility that the remaining two big hit games can be consumed.

[Passing specific area]
In FIG. 55 (M): In addition, the second variable winning device 31 is shifted to the open state by the small hit game, and the game ball passes while the specific area 31x in the small hit game is open, and the small hit game time. Assume that the type of the winning symbol is the seventh winning symbol. In this example, an effect of dropping the movable body 40f to the front side of the liquid crystal display 42 is executed. Thereby, it is possible to tell the player that it is determined that the “HYPER RUSH mode” representing the time reduction state has been entered.

  In FIG. 55 (N): After that, the female character in the car raises the heart mark on which the letter V is drawn, and an effect that produces a dialogue such as “Yeah! SUPER BIG BONUS!” Is executed. Accordingly, it is possible to teach the player that the game ball has passed through the specific area 31x and that a big hit game (SUPER BIG BONUS) will be started.

[End of jackpot, start of jackpot game]
(O) in FIG. 55: After that, the small hit game is finished, and the second big winning opening 31b is closed. Further, the big hit game is started when the game ball passes through the specific area 31x while the second big prize opening 31b is opened. In this example, a female character peculiar to the jackpot game appears, character information such as “SUPER BIG BONUS” is displayed, and an effect that the female character emits a similar line is executed. In addition, character information such as “Please make a right strike” is displayed together with an arrow indicating the right direction, and the player can be instructed that the big hit game proceeds by making a right strike.

[Round 1 (Round 2)]
In FIG. 56 (P): When the first round of the big hit game (the second round when the small hit time is included) is started, for example, 15 pieces with the text information “SUPER BIG BONUS” in the upper left part of the screen The ○ mark is displayed. The circle mark located at the leftmost position in the uppermost row is displayed in red, and the remaining 14 circles are displayed in white. As a result, it is possible to obtain 15 rounds, the current round is the first round of the 15 rounds, and each time a round in which a round can be earned progresses, The player can be instructed to be displayed in red.

[15th round (16th round)]
In FIG. 56 (Q): After that, the big hit game progresses smoothly. For example, when the final round is the 15th round (the 16th round when the small hit is included), for example, all 15 ○ marks Displayed in red. Thereby, it is possible to teach the player that all the rounds in which the player can win the ball in the final round are finished.

[Time reduction state entry production]
In FIG. 56 (R): At the end of the big hit game, character information such as “HYPER RUSH mode continued!” Is displayed, and the effect that the female character emits a similar line is executed. Thereby, it is possible to teach the player that the “HYPER RUSH mode” indicating the time reduction state is started again. In addition, character information such as “Please make a right strike” is displayed along with an arrow indicating the right direction, and the player can be informed that the game proceeds with the right strike.

[Second production example of production during time reduction]
57 and 58 are continuous diagrams showing a second effect example executed during the time reduction state. The second effect example shows a failure example in which the memory of the second special symbol cannot be stored. In addition, description is abbreviate | omitted about the matter which is common in the 1st production example.

  (A) in FIG. 57: An effect in the time reduction mode (HYPER RUSH mode) is started.

[Start of special symbol changes]
In FIG. 57 (B): Since the memory of the first special symbol is often stored at the first hit with the first special symbol, the first special symbol is variably displayed when entering the time reduction mode at the first hit. Is done. The variable display effect is also executed in conjunction with the effect symbol related to the first special symbol and the fourth symbol Z1.

[End of special symbol changes]
FIG. 57 (C): Since the variation time of the first special symbol in the time shortening state is set to the shortened variation time, the first special symbol is immediately stopped and displayed in a shifted manner. The effect symbol and the fourth symbol Z1 are also stopped and displayed in an out-of-phase manner. During this time, the player has made a right strike, a plurality of game balls have passed through the start gate 20, the variable start winning device 28 has been opened, and one game ball has entered the right start winning port 28a. To do.

  (D) in FIG. 57: When one game ball is won in the right start winning opening 28a, an internal lottery regarding the second special symbol is executed. Then, the variable display effect of the second special symbol is started, and accordingly, the variable display effect is also executed in conjunction with the effect symbol related to the special symbol located in the upper left corner and the lower right corner of the screen and the fourth symbol Z2. In the internal lottery regarding the second special symbol, it is assumed that a small win is won.

  Here, it is assumed that the normal symbol variation time is 30 seconds. In this case, the above-described variable start winning device opening effect or suggestion effect is not executed, and the player continues to wait until the 20-second fluctuation of the special symbol is completed.

  (E) in FIG. 58: The effect in the time reduction mode is continued. The second special symbol is changing and the fourth symbol Z2 is changing.

[Passing specific area]
In FIG. 58 (F): the second variable winning device 31 shifts to the open state due to the small hit game, the game ball passes through the specific area 31x, and the type of the winning symbol at the small hit is the eighth winning symbol or the ninth winning symbol. Assume a winning design. In this example, a female character in a car raises a heart mark with the letter V and produces an effect that produces a dialogue such as “Yeah! BIG BONUS!”. Accordingly, it is possible to teach the player that the game ball has passed through the specific area 31x and that a big hit game (BIG BONUS) will be started from now on.

[End of jackpot, start of jackpot game]
In FIG. 58 (G): Thereafter, the small hit game is terminated, and the second variable winning device 31 (second big winning port 31b) is closed. Further, the big hit game is started when the game ball passes through the specific area 31x during the small hit game. In this example, a female character peculiar to the big hit game appears, character information such as “BIG BONUS” is displayed, and an effect in which the female character emits a similar line is executed. In addition, on the display screen, character information such as “Please make a right strike” is displayed together with an arrow indicating the right direction, and the player can be instructed that the big hit game proceeds by making a right strike.

  Thereafter, the process proceeds to (B) in FIG. 47, and an effect during the big hit game similar to the above is started, and the game proceeds. For example, if the type of winning symbol at the time of a small hit with respect to the second special symbol corresponds to the eighth winning symbol, after performing an effect during the round in which four rounds can be obtained, a button pressing effect or a button pressing successful effect An effect of rushing into the “HYPER RUSH mode” representing the time reduction state is executed. In addition, when the type of winning symbol at the time of small hits related to the second special symbol corresponds to the ninth winning symbol, a button pressing effect or a button pressing failure effect, EXTRA, after the effect during the round in which four rounds can be obtained. An effect of returning to the normal state is executed through the BONUS effect (effect during the round in which the remaining four rounds can be obtained). However, even when returning to the normal state, since two memories of the second special symbol are stored, the remaining two big hit games can be consumed. In addition, when the type of winning symbol at the time of the small hit is the seventh winning symbol, the same effects as in FIGS. 55 and 56 are executed.

  59 and 60 are continuous diagrams showing examples of effects when the second special symbol fluctuates during a normal game. Such a situation occurs mainly when the second special symbol memory is accumulated in the time-saving state, but the big hit game is executed with a small hit in the ninth winning symbol.

[Exchanging special symbols]
(A) in FIG. 59: For example, the variation display of the second special symbol is executed in the normal mode (park mode) representing the normal state.

[Zone display effect]
(B) in FIG. 59: For example, when about 5 seconds have elapsed since the start of the fluctuation, the character information “Renso Zone” is displayed at the top of the screen. And the fluctuation | variation of a 2nd special symbol continues over 20 seconds. Since the situation here is not the time shortening state, the probability that the normal symbol is won even if it passes through the start gate 20 is low (for example, 1 / 60,000), so the variable start winning device 28 shifts to the open state. Basically, the memory of the second special symbol cannot be stored.

[Stop display effect]
(C) in FIG. 59: Three effect symbols stop simultaneously in synchronization with the stop display of the second special symbol. It is assumed that the change of the second special symbol this time corresponds to the small hit. When the stop display is performed in the small hit state of the second special symbol, the effect symbol or the fourth symbol Z2 located in the upper left corner or the lower right corner of the screen represents the small hit (the pig character and the number “7”). The combination of the special effect symbol with the “mark displayed”, green display color) is stopped and displayed, the small hit game is started, and the second big prize opening 31b is opened. In this case, an image suggesting a right strike is displayed at the bottom of the screen.

[Starting a small hit, opening the second big prize opening]
In FIG. 60 (D): When the small hit game is started, the second big prize opening 31b is opened, and an effect in which the car on which the female character is riding speeds up and proceeds to the right side of the screen is executed. The

[Passing specific area]
In FIG. 60 (E): the second variable winning device 31 shifts to the open state due to the small hit game, the game ball passes through the specific area 31x, and the winning symbol type at the small hit is the eighth winning symbol or the ninth winning symbol. Assume a winning design. In this example, a female character in a car raises a heart mark with the letter V and produces an effect that produces a dialogue such as “Yeah! BIG BONUS!”. Accordingly, it is possible to teach the player that the game ball has passed through the specific area 31x and that a big hit game (BIG BONUS) will be started from now on.

[End of jackpot, start of jackpot game]
In FIG. 60 (F): Thereafter, the small hit game is finished, and the second variable winning device 31 (second big winning port 31b) is closed. Further, the big hit game is started when the game ball passes through the specific area 31x during the small hit game. In this example, a female character peculiar to the big hit game appears, character information such as “BIG BONUS” is displayed, and an effect in which the female character emits a similar line is executed. In addition, on the display screen, character information such as “Please make a right strike” is displayed together with an arrow indicating the right direction, and the player can be instructed that the big hit game proceeds by making a right strike.

  Thereafter, the process proceeds to (B) in FIG. 47, and an effect during the big hit game similar to the above is started, and the game proceeds. For example, if the type of winning symbol at the time of a small hit with respect to the second special symbol corresponds to the eighth winning symbol, after performing an effect during the round in which four rounds can be obtained, a button pressing effect or a button pressing successful effect An effect of rushing into the “HYPER RUSH mode” representing the time reduction state is executed. In addition, when the type of winning symbol at the time of small hits related to the second special symbol corresponds to the ninth winning symbol, a button pressing effect or a button pressing failure effect, EXTRA, after the effect during the round in which four rounds can be obtained. An effect of returning to the normal state is executed through the BONUS effect (effect during the round in which the remaining four rounds can be obtained). However, even in the case of returning to the normal state, the jackpot game can be consumed as much as the memory of the second special symbol is accumulated.

  Next, an example of a control method for specifically realizing the above effects will be described. The above-described variable display effects (including changes in the effect symbol arrangement), reach effects, pre-reach notice effects, memory number display effects, big-time effects (including change notice effects), variable start winning device opening effects, suggested effects, etc. Are controlled through the following control process.

[Production control processing]
FIG. 61 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the effect control process executed by the effect control CPU 126. This effect control process is executed, for example, in a timer interrupt process (interrupt management process) separately from a reset start (main) process (not shown). The effect control CPU 126 generates a timer interrupt at a predetermined interrupt cycle (for example, a period of several tens of μs to several ms) during execution of the reset start process, and executes the timer interrupt process.

  The effect control process includes a command reception process (step S400), an operation memory effect management process (step S401), an effect symbol management process (step S402), a normal symbol related effect management process (step S403), and a display output process (step S404). , Lamp driving processing (step S406), acoustic driving processing (step S408), production random number update processing (step S410), and other processing (step S412) and a group of subroutines. Hereinafter, the basic flow of the effect control process will be described along each process.

  Step S400: In the command receiving process, the effect control CPU 126 receives an effect command transmitted from the main control CPU 72. The effect control CPU 126 analyzes the received commands and stores them in the command buffer area of the RAM 130 according to type. In addition, the command for the effect transmitted from the main control CPU 72 includes, for example, an effect command when the number of operating memories increases (special symbol), an effect command when the number of operating memories decreases, a start opening winning tone control command, a demo Production command, lottery result command, variation pattern command, variation start command, stop symbol command, symbol stop command, state designation command, round number command, firing position designation command, error notification command, jackpot end presentation command, turn-off counter There are a value command, a change pattern destination determination command, a stop display time end command, a second special symbol winning command, and the like.

  Step S401: In the operation memory effect management process, the effect control CPU 126 controls the execution of the above-described stored number display effect and the pre-reading notice effect using the marker M1. The contents of the working memory effect management process will be further described later with reference to another drawing.

  Step S402: In the effect symbol management process, the effect control CPU 126 controls the contents of the variable display effect and the stop display effect using the effect symbols, or controls the effect contents during the opening / closing operation of the first variable winning device 30. . In this process, the effect control CPU 126 initially sets the display mode of the effect symbols (material setting means) or changes the initial setting (material setting changing means). In this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects effect patterns of various notice effects (notice effect before reach occurrence, notice effect after reach, etc.). The contents of the effect symbol management process will be further described later with reference to another drawing.

  Step S403: In the normal symbol related effect management process, the effect control CPU 126 executes a process for controlling the effect or the like when the chance state for the second special symbol occurs. The specific processing contents will be described later.

  Step S404: In the display output process, the effect control CPU 126 controls the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146) with basic control information of the effect contents (for example, the number of working memories of each of the first special symbol and the second special symbol). , An operation memory effect pattern number, a prefetch notice effect pattern number, a change effect pattern number, a change notice effect number, a background pattern number, etc.). Thereby, the effect display control device 144 (the display control CPU 146 and the VDP 152) controls the display operation by the liquid crystal display 42 based on the instructed effect content (effect executing means).

  Step S406: In the lamp driving process, the effect control CPU 126 outputs a control signal to the lamp driving circuit 132. In response to this, the lamp driving circuit 132 drives (turns on or off, blinks, changes in luminance gradation, etc.) the various lamps 46 to 52 and the panel lamp 53 based on the control signal.

  Step S408: In the next sound drive process, the effect control CPU 126 sends the effect contents (for example, BGM, sound data, etc. during the variable display effect, during the reach effect, during the mode transition effect, during the jackpot effect) to the sound drive circuit 134. Instruct. Thereby, the sound according to the production content is output from the speakers 54, 55, and 56.

  Step S410: In the effect random number update process, the effect control CPU 126 updates various effect random numbers in the counter area of the RAM 130. The effect random number includes, for example, a random number used for selecting a notice and a random number used for a normal background change lottery (effect lottery).

  Step S412: In other processing, for example, the effect control CPU 126 outputs a control signal to the driving IC of the movable body 40f. The movable body 40f operates using the movable body solenoid 57 as a drive source, and produces an effect in synchronization with the display of the image by the liquid crystal display 42 or independently.

  Through the above-described effect control process, the effect control CPU 126 can comprehensively control the effect contents in the pachinko machine 1. Next, the contents of the effect symbol management process executed in the effect control process will be described.

[Working memory production management process]
FIG. 62 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the working memory effect management process. Hereinafter, the contents will be described along a procedure example.

  Step S700: First, the effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the effect command at the time of increasing the number of working memories has been received from the main control CPU 72. Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130, and confirms whether or not the effect command at the time when the number of working memories increases is stored. When it is confirmed that the production command when the number of working memories increases is saved (step S700: Yes), the production control CPU 126 executes step S702. When it is not possible to confirm that the production command when the number of working memories increases is saved (step S700: No), the production control CPU 126 does not execute step S702.

  Step S702: The effect control CPU 126 executes an effect selection process when the number of working memories increases. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects an effect for displaying the marker M1 corresponding to the first special symbol.

  Step S704: The effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the effect command at the time when the number of working memories decreases is received from the main control CPU 72. Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130 and confirms whether or not the effect command when the number of working memories is reduced is stored. When it is confirmed that the production command when the number of working memories decreases is saved (step S704: Yes), the production control CPU 126 executes step S706. If it is not possible to confirm that the effect command when the number of working memories is reduced is stored (step S704: No), the effect control CPU 126 does not execute step S706.

Step S706: The effect control CPU 126 executes effect selection processing when the number of working memories decreases. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects an effect of sliding the marker M1 corresponding to the first special symbol.
When the above procedure is completed, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the effect control process (FIG. 61).

[Direction design management processing]
FIG. 63 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the effect symbol management process. The effect symbol management process includes an execution selection process (step S500), an effect symbol mode management process (step S501), an effect symbol variation pre-processing (step S502), an effect symbol variation process (step S504), and an effect symbol stop display process. This is a configuration including a subroutine group of (Step S506) and variable winning device operating process (Step S508). Hereinafter, the basic flow of the effect symbol management process will be described along each process.

  Step S500: In the execution selection process, the effect control CPU 126 selects the jump destination of the process to be executed next (any one of steps S501 to S508). For example, the effect control CPU 126 sets the program address of the process to be executed next as the jump destination address, and sets the end of the effect symbol management process in the “jump table” as the return address. Which process is selected as the next jump destination depends on the progress of the processes performed so far. For example, in the situation where the variable display effect is not yet started and the effect symbol display mode is not set, the effect control CPU 126 performs the effect symbol mode management process as the next jump destination (step S501). After that, effect symbol variation pre-processing (step S502) is selected. On the other hand, if the effect symbol variation pre-processing has already been completed, the effect control CPU 126 selects the effect symbol variation processing (step S504) as the next jump destination, and if the effect symbol variation in-process has been completed, As a jump destination, the effect symbol stop display in-progress process (step S506) is selected. Further, the variable winning device operating process (step S508) is selected as a jump destination only when the variable winning device management process (step S5000 in FIG. 16) is selected in the main control CPU 72. In this case, steps S501 to S506 are not executed.

  Step S501: In the effect symbol mode management process, the effect control CPU 126 performs setting of the effect symbol display mode (initial setting and its change). In other words, the effect control CPU 126 sets the effect symbol array in accordance with the progress of the game up to now. Note that specific processing contents will be described later using another flowchart.

  Step S502: In the effect symbol variation pre-processing, the effect control CPU 126 performs an operation of preparing conditions for starting the variable display effect using the effect symbol. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects the contents of the reach effect according to various conditions (the lottery result, the winning type (the winning symbol type), the variation pattern, etc.), or the effect pattern (prefetching) for the notice effect. Other than the notice effect pattern, a pre-reach occurrence notice pattern, a reach notice notice pattern, etc.) are selected. In addition, the production control CPU 126 also performs demonstration production control when the pachinko machine 1 is in a so-called customer waiting state. The specific processing content will be described later using another flowchart.

  Step S504: In the effect symbol changing process, the effect control CPU 126 generates control information instructing the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146) as necessary. For example, when performing an effect using the effect switching button 45 during execution of the variable display effect using the effect symbol, the effect control CPU 126 monitors whether or not the player has operated the effect button, and an effect corresponding to the result is displayed. The control information on the contents (button effect) is instructed to the display control CPU 146.

  Step S506: In the effect symbol stop display processing, the effect control CPU 126 controls the contents of the stop display effect using the effect symbols and moving images in a manner corresponding to the result of the internal lottery. That is, the effect control CPU 126 instructs the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146) to end the variable display effect and execute the stop display effect. In response to this, the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146) ends the variable display effect that has been actually executed in the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42, and executes the stop display effect. Thereby, the stop display effect is executed substantially in synchronization with the stop display of the special symbol, and the result of the internal lottery can be effectively taught (disclosure, notification, notification, etc.) to the player (design effect execution). means).

  Step S508: In the variable winning device operating process, the effect control CPU 126 controls the contents of the effect during the small hit game or the big hit. In this processing, the effect control CPU 126 selects the contents of the prominent effect according to various conditions (for example, winning type). The specific processing content will be further described later with reference to another flowchart.

[Preliminary design change processing]
Next, FIG. 64 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the above-described effect symbol variation pre-processing. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along the example of a procedure.

  Step S600: The effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not a demonstration effect command is received from the main control CPU 72. Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130 and confirms whether or not a demonstration effect command is stored. As a result, when it is confirmed that the command for demonstration effect is stored (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S602.

  Step S602: The effect control CPU 126 executes a demo selection process. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects a demonstration effect pattern. The demonstration effect pattern defines the contents of the effect indicating that the pachinko machine 1 is in a so-called customer waiting state.

  When the above procedure is completed, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the last address of the effect symbol management process. Then, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the effect control process as it is, and controls the contents of the demonstration effect based on the demonstration effect pattern in the subsequent display output process (step S404 in FIG. 61) and lamp driving process (step S406 in FIG. 61). To do.

  On the other hand, if it is confirmed in step S600 that the demonstration effect command is not stored (No), the effect control CPU 126 next executes step S604.

  Step S604: The effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the current fluctuation is out of place (non-winning). Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130 and confirms whether or not a lottery result command at the time of non-winning is stored. As a result, when it is confirmed that the lottery result command at the time of non-winning is saved (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S612. On the other hand, when it is confirmed that the lottery result command at the time of non-winning is not saved (No), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S606. Note that whether or not the current variation is off can be confirmed based on a variation pattern command or a stop symbol command in addition to the lottery result command. In other words, if the current variation pattern command corresponds to the outlier normal variation or outlier reach variation, it can be determined that the current variation is outlier. Alternatively, if the current stop symbol command specifies a non-winning symbol, it can be determined that the current variation is out of sync.

  Step S606: If the lottery result command is other than non-winning (missing) (step S604: No), the effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the current fluctuation is a big hit. Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130 and confirms whether or not the lottery result command at the time of the big hit is stored. As a result, when it is confirmed that the lottery result command at the time of big hit is stored (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S610. On the contrary, when it is confirmed that the lottery result command at the time of big hit is not stored (No), since only the lottery result command at the time of small hit is left, in this case, the effect control CPU 126 executes step S608. Whether or not the current variation is a big hit can also be confirmed based on a variation pattern command or a stop symbol command. That is, if the current variation pattern command corresponds to the big hit variation, it can be determined that the current variation is a big hit. If the current stop symbol command corresponds to the jackpot symbol, it can be determined that the current variation is a jackpot.

  Step S608: The effect control CPU 126 executes a small hit hour variation effect pattern selection process. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 determines the effect pattern number at that time based on the variation pattern command received from the main control CPU 72. The effect pattern number is prepared in advance corresponding to the variation pattern command, and the effect control CPU 126 can select an effect pattern number corresponding to the variation pattern command at that time by referring to an effect pattern selection table (not shown). it can. The production pattern numbers may be prepared in pairs with the variation pattern commands, or a plurality of production pattern numbers may be prepared for one variation pattern command.

  When the effect pattern number is selected, the effect control CPU 126 refers to an effect table (not shown), and determines the change schedule (change time) of the effect symbol corresponding to the change effect pattern number at that time, the stop display mode, and the like. Note that the types of effect symbols determined here correspond to the “combination of symbols at the time of a small hit”.

  For example, the effect control CPU 126 executes a process of selecting an effect pattern that changes the effect symbol or the like in the “time reduction mode (HYPER RUSH mode)” state when the second special symbol small hit change in the time reduction state. On the other hand, the effect control CPU 126 changes the effect symbol while executing the zone display effect at the time of small hit fluctuation of the second special symbol in the non-time shortened state, and finally selects the effect pattern to stop and display the special effect symbol Execute the process. Such an effect pattern is selected in the same way even when the big hit in the second special symbol fluctuates.

  The above procedure corresponds to the case of “small hit”, but in the case of hitting the big hit, the effect control CPU 126 confirms that it is “big hit” in step S606 (Yes). In this case, the effect control CPU 126 executes step S610.

  Step S610: The effect control CPU 126 executes a big hit hour fluctuation effect pattern selection process. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 determines the effect pattern number at that time based on the variation pattern command received from the main control CPU 72. Note that, in the big hit effect pattern selection process, the process may be further branched for each big hit stop symbol.

  In the case of non-winning, the following procedure is executed. In other words, when the effect control CPU 126 confirms that there is a shift in step S604 (Yes), it next executes step S612.

  Step S612: The effect control CPU 126 executes a deviation effect pattern selection process. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 determines the effect pattern number at the time of deviation based on the variation pattern command received from the main control CPU 72. The effect pattern numbers at the time of losing are classified into “ordinary deviation fluctuation”, “short-time deviation fluctuation”, “outlier reach fluctuation”, and the like, and a fine reach fluctuation pattern is defined in “outlier reach fluctuation”. Note that which effect pattern number is selected by the effect control CPU 126 is determined by the variation pattern command transmitted from the main control CPU 72.

  When the effect pattern number at the time of detachment is selected, the effect control CPU 126 refers to an effect table (not shown), and the effect symbol change schedule corresponding to the change effect pattern number at that time (change time, presence / absence of reach, occurrence of reach) , Reach type and reach occurrence timing) and stop display mode (for example, “7”-“2”-“4”, etc.).

  When any one of the above steps S608, S610, and S612 is executed, the effect control CPU 126 next executes step S614.

  Step S614: The effect control CPU 126 executes a notice selection process (notice effect executing means). In this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects the content of the notice effect to be executed during the current variable display effect by lottery. The content of the notice effect is determined based on, for example, the result of internal lottery (winning or non-winning) and the current internal state (normal state, time reduction state). As described above, the notice effect is for notifying the player of the possibility that the reach state will occur during the variable display effect, or for notifying that there is a possibility that it will eventually be a big hit. Therefore, the selection ratio of the notice effect is set to be low at the time of non-winning, but the selection ratio of the notice effect is set to be relatively high to increase the player's expectation at the time of winning.

  Step S616: The effect control CPU 126 executes a mode effect management process. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 executes a process of selecting a background image corresponding to the stay mode.

  When the above procedure is completed, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the effect symbol management process (end address). Thereby, in the subsequent effect symbol variation processing (step S504 in FIG. 63), the variation display effect and the stop display effect are executed based on the actually selected variation effect pattern (symbol effect executing means), A notice effect is executed based on various notice effect patterns. In addition, various stay mode effects are executed based on the background (stay) mode pattern selected here.

[Processing when the variable winning device is activated]
FIG. 65 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure of the variable winning device operating process. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along the example of a procedure.

  Step S800: The effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the result of the current variation is a big hit. Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130, confirms the lottery result command, and confirms whether it corresponds to the big hit or the small hit. As a result of this confirmation, if the result of the current variation is a big hit (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 next executes step S802. On the other hand, if the result of the current variation is not a big hit (No), that is, if the result is a small hit, the effect control CPU 126 next executes step S804.

  Step S802: The effect control CPU 126 executes a process for operating the variable winning device at the big hit. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects an effect pattern to be executed between the start of the jackpot game and the end of the jackpot game.

  Specifically, when the effect control CPU 126 confirms that it corresponds to the first winning symbol, the fifth winning symbol, or the eighth winning symbol, the effect control CPU 126 provides the effect as the effect content to be displayed on the liquid crystal display 42 in advance. Big hits corresponding to the types of winning symbols (first winning symbol, fifth winning symbol, and eighth winning symbol) that can be obtained for four rounds of balls stored in the image ROM 154 of the display control device 144 (VDP 152) Various image data related to the effect pattern is read out.

  In addition, when the effect control CPU 126 confirms that it corresponds to the third winning symbol, the sixth winning symbol, or the ninth winning symbol, the effect control CPU 126 previously displays the effect display control device as the effect content to be displayed on the liquid crystal display 42. 144 (VDP 152) image ROM 154 stored in the image ROM 154 winning pattern corresponding to the type of winning symbol (third winning symbol, sixth winning symbol, ninth winning symbol) that can be obtained 8 rounds. Various image data regarding is read.

  Further, when the effect control CPU 126 confirms that the second winning symbol is satisfied, the effect control CPU 126 stores in advance in the image ROM 154 of the effect display control device 144 (VDP 152) as the effect contents to be displayed on the liquid crystal display 42. Various image data relating to the effect pattern at the time of the big hit corresponding to the type of winning symbol (second winning symbol) for which it is difficult to acquire the outgoing ball is read. For example, an effect pattern (so-called sudden time-short transition effect, not shown) that directly shifts to the time-short mode (HYPER RUSH mode) is selected.

  Furthermore, when the effect control CPU 126 confirms that it corresponds to the fourth winning symbol or the seventh winning symbol, it is previously stored in the image ROM 154 of the effect display control device 144 (VDP 152) as the effect content to be displayed on the liquid crystal display 42. Various image data related to the effect pattern corresponding to the big hit corresponding to the types of winning symbols (fourth winning symbol, seventh winning symbol) that can be obtained for the 15 rounds of the ball to be stored are read.

  In addition, the effect control CPU 126 makes a right hit during the end time of the big hit game to be executed when the first special symbol is displayed as a big hit stop, and the right is urged to pass the game ball to the start gate 20. A process of selecting an effect pattern for executing a striking effect (ordinary symbol lottery trigger generation promotion effect) is executed (normal symbol lottery trigger generation promotion effect executing means).

  Step S804: The effect control CPU 126 executes a process for operating the variable winning device for small hitting operation. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects an effect pattern to be executed between the start of the small hit and the end of the small hit.

  Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 selects an effect pattern (for example, an effect of increasing the speed of a car on which a female character is riding) indicating an individual at which the small hit game is started at the start of the small hit game, and during the small hit game When the game ball passes through the specific area, a process of selecting an effect pattern at the time of passing the specific area (an effect in which a female character riding a car raises a heart mark on which a letter V is drawn) is executed.

  When the above procedure is completed, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the effect symbol management process (FIG. 63).

[Normal design related production management processing]
FIG. 66 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of the normal symbol related effect management process. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along the example of a procedure.

  Step S900: The effect control CPU 126 checks whether or not the internal state is a time reduction state. Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 can confirm the internal state by accessing the command buffer area of the RAM 130 and confirming the state designation command.

  As a result, when it is confirmed that the internal state is the time reduction state (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S902, and when it is not possible to confirm that the internal state is the time reduction state (No), the effect control CPU 126. Returns to the effect control process (FIG. 61).

  Step S902: The effect control CPU 126 checks whether or not the current variation of the normal symbol is a variation pattern of the first or second variation time (whether or not it is a 5-second variation or a 10-second variation). Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 can confirm the variation pattern of the normal symbol by accessing the command buffer area of the RAM 130 and confirming the variation pattern command of the ordinary symbol.

  As a result, when it is confirmed that the current variation of the normal symbol is the variation pattern of the first or second variation time (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S904, and the variation of the normal symbol this time is the first variation. Or when it cannot confirm that it is a fluctuation pattern of the 2nd fluctuation time (No), production control CPU126 does not perform Step S904.

  Step S904: The effect control CPU 126 executes a variable start winning device opening effect selection process. Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 executes a process of selecting an effect pattern for displaying a pig character until the variable start winning device 28 is closed.

  Step S906: The effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the second special symbol winning command has been received. Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130 and confirms whether or not the second special symbol winning command is stored.

  As a result, when it is confirmed that the second special symbol winning command is received (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S908, and when it is not possible to confirm that the second special symbol winning command is received (No), the effect. The control CPU 126 does not execute step S908.

  Step S908: The effect control CPU 126 executes an in-memory chance resort opportunity acquisition effect selection process. Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 executes a process of selecting an effect pattern for displaying an image of “a mark on which the numeral 7 is displayed”.

  Step S910: The effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the fluctuation pattern of the normal symbol in the memory is the fluctuation pattern of the first or second fluctuation time. Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 can confirm the variation pattern of the normal symbol selected in the future by accessing the command buffer area of the RAM 130 and confirming the variation symbol of the normal symbol.

  It should be noted that this determination process may be limited to “when the current normal symbol variation pattern is the first or second variation time variation pattern”. Thereby, it is possible to avoid the selection of the suggestive effect even though the fluctuation time of 30 seconds is selected with respect to the current fluctuation time.

  As a result, when it is confirmed that the variation of the normal symbol in the memory is the variation pattern of the first or second variation time (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S912, and the variation of the normal symbol in the memory is When it cannot confirm that it is the fluctuation pattern of the 1st or 2nd fluctuation time (No), production control CPU126 does not perform Step S912.

Step S912: The effect control CPU 126 executes a suggestion effect selection process (prior determination effect execution means). Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 executes a process of selecting an effect pattern for displaying a panda character holding a placard.
When the above procedure is completed, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the effect symbol management process (FIG. 61).

As described above, according to the present embodiment, there are the following effects.
(1) In the present embodiment, the winning is performed by the first special symbol lottery, and when a predetermined transition condition is satisfied, the state is shifted to the time reduction state. In the time shortening state, the game is progressed mainly by the second special symbol lottery. However, since the variable start winning device 28 picks up only one game ball, the second special symbol lottery is basically executed only once. And in the 2nd special symbol lottery, it always corresponds to a small hit or a big hit.

  If even one gaming ball can enter the second major winning opening 31b while the second major winning opening 31b is open, the gaming ball passes through the specific area 31x, so that the small hit is connected to the big hit. Therefore, as a result, the second special symbol lottery is practically always connected to a special game (big hit game).

  Thereby, in this embodiment, as long as the second special symbol lottery is executed, the big hit game is executed. That is, not only “one change of the second special symbol = one big hit” but also “one storage (holding) of the second special symbol = one big hit stock”.

  In such a situation, how many memories of the second special symbol can be stored while the second special symbol is fluctuating at a constant variation time (20 seconds)? Can it be stocked individually)?

  Then, when a short time (5 seconds or 10 seconds) shorter than a certain fluctuation time is selected as the fluctuation time of the normal symbol in the time shortening state, the change is made before the second special symbol fluctuation ends. 2 You will have the opportunity to store special symbol memories. On the other hand, when a long time (30 seconds) longer than a certain variation time is selected as the variation time of the normal symbol in the time shortening state, the second special symbol is changed before the variation of the second special symbol is finished. I can't get the opportunity to save my memory.

  For this reason, depending on the fluctuation time of the selected normal symbol (that is, depending on the player), it is possible to substantially stock the jackpot right from the next time during the fluctuation of the second special symbol, the number of stocks Can be changed freely, and a new sense of playability can be demonstrated.

(2) According to the present embodiment, since the number of time reductions is set to five, the second special symbol lottery can be received at least once in a time shortened state. Therefore, the second special symbol lottery can be connected to the big hit game. Thereby, it can be avoided that the time shortening state ends without receiving the second special symbol lottery even once in the time shortening state.

(3) According to the present embodiment, during the fluctuation at the time of winning the second special symbol, it is suggested by the suggestion effect (pre-reading effect) that a short fluctuation time is reserved for future fluctuations by the preliminary determination effect. Sometimes. For this reason, the player can know an important scene in advance and can avoid missing the opportunity of the second special symbol lottery.

(4) According to this embodiment, the variation time of the normal symbol in the non-time shortened state is a time equal to or shorter than the end time of the special game based on the first special symbol winning. For this reason, it is possible to avoid as much as possible the situation that the normal symbol is changing at the end of the special game. Therefore, the normal symbol can be changed from the beginning of the time reduction state. Further, by executing a right-handed suggestion effect (ordinary symbol lottery opportunity generation promotion effect) at the end time, it is possible to avoid that the normal symbol starts to change during the end time of the special game.

(5) According to the present embodiment, the variable start winning device 28 is arranged downstream of the second variable winning device 31, and the second variable winning device 31 opens the second large winning port 31b. Since the game ball does not reach the variable start winning device 28 by entering the second variable winning device 31, the variable start winning device 28 temporarily shifts to the open state during the big hit game or the small hit game. Even if it is, the game ball can be blocked by the second variable winning device 31 upstream, and the situation where the game ball inadvertently enters the second variable start winning device 28 can be avoided.

  The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and can be implemented with various modifications. The aspect of the effect mentioned in one embodiment is an example, and is not limited to the aspect of the effect described above.

  The images given in other production examples are merely examples, and these can be appropriately modified. Further, the structure, board surface configuration, specific numerical values and the like of the pachinko machine 1 are preferable examples including those shown in the drawings, and it goes without saying that these can be appropriately modified.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Pachinko machine 8 Game board unit 8a Game area 20 Start gate 28 Variable start winning device 33 Normal symbol display device 33a Normal symbol operation | movement memory lamp 34 1st special symbol display device 35 2nd special symbol display device 34a 1st special symbol operation memory Lamp 35a Second special symbol operation memory lamp 38 Game state display device 42 Liquid crystal display 45 Effect switching button 70 Main control device 72 Main control CPU
74 ROM
76 RAM
124 Production control device 126 Production control CPU

Claims (5)

A first special symbol lottery execution means for executing a first special symbol lottery when a first special symbol lottery opportunity occurs during a game relating to a game ball flow;
A second special symbol lottery execution means for executing a second special symbol lottery when a second special symbol lottery opportunity occurs during a game relating to a game ball flow;
Based on execution of the first special symbol lottery, the first special symbol is variably displayed over a predetermined fluctuation time, and then the first special symbol is stopped in a manner corresponding to the result of the first special symbol lottery. First special symbol display means for displaying;
Based on the execution of the second special symbol lottery, the second special symbol is variably displayed over a predetermined fluctuation time, and then the second special symbol is stopped in a manner corresponding to the result of the second special symbol lottery. Second special symbol display means for displaying;
A first lottery element storage means for storing a first lottery element for use in the first special symbol lottery when the first special symbol lottery trigger occurs before the start condition of the first special symbol is satisfied;
A second lottery element storage means for storing a second lottery element for use in the second special symbol lottery when the second special symbol lottery trigger occurs before the start condition of the second special symbol is satisfied;
When the first special symbol or the second special symbol is stopped and displayed in a winning manner corresponding to a special winning type, a first variable winning device that opens a first big winning opening and executes a special game;
When the first special symbol or the second special symbol is stopped and displayed in a winning manner corresponding to a special winning type, a second variable for opening a second big prize opening and executing a special game different from the special game A winning device;
A specific area that is disposed inside the second variable winning device and downstream of the second grand prize opening, and through which at least one game ball passes among the game balls that have entered the second big prize opening;
Special game execution means via special game for executing the special game when a game ball passes through the specific area during execution of the special game;
A second special symbol lottery result limiting means for substantially limiting the result of the second special symbol lottery to the special winning type or the special winning type;
A normal symbol lottery execution means for executing a normal symbol lottery when a normal symbol lottery opportunity occurs during the game;
Based on the execution of the normal symbol lottery, normal symbol display means for displaying the normal symbol in a manner according to the result of the normal symbol lottery after the normal symbol is variably displayed over a predetermined fluctuation time;
When the normal symbol is stopped and displayed in a predetermined winning manner, the start winning opening for generating the second special symbol lottery opportunity is opened, and the start winning opening is opened by the occurrence of the second special symbol lottery opportunity. A variable start winning device to be closed;
When a predetermined transition condition is satisfied, a time reduction in which the second special symbol lottery trigger occurs at a frequency higher than the normal frequency from a non-time shortened state in which the second special symbol lottery trigger occurs at a normal frequency. Time transition state transition means to transition to the state,
A time shortening state special symbol winning time varying time defining means defining a certain variation time as a variation time at the time of winning the second special symbol in the time shortening state;
Time reduction that defines at least two types of fluctuation time, a short time shorter than the constant fluctuation time and a long time longer than the constant fluctuation time, as the fluctuation time of the normal symbol in the time reduction state A gaming machine comprising state normal symbol variation time defining means. In the gaming machine according to claim 1,
The time shortening state transition means includes:
A gaming machine, wherein the second special symbol is shifted to the time shortening state until there is a possibility that the second special symbol may change at least once in the time shortening state. In the gaming machine according to claim 1 or 2,
When the normal symbol lottery trigger occurs before the normal symbol start condition is satisfied, a variation time determination element storage means for storing a variation time determination element for determining the variation time of the normal symbol;
When the variable time determining element is newly stored, the variable time destination determining means for determining in advance the variable time of the normal symbol using the new variable time determining element;
When the prior determination result by the variation time ahead determination means satisfies a special condition, during the variation at the time of winning the first special symbol or the second special symbol in the time reduction state, A gaming machine comprising: a pre-decision effect executing means for executing a pre-decision effect based on the determination result. In the gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3,
A normal symbol lottery element storage means for storing a normal symbol lottery element for use in the normal symbol lottery when the normal symbol lottery opportunity occurs before the start condition of the normal symbol is satisfied;
The variation time of the normal symbol in the non-time shortened state is
A time equal to or less than an end time of the special game that is executed when the first special symbol is stopped and displayed in a winning manner corresponding to the special winning type,
A gaming machine comprising: a normal symbol lottery trigger generation promotion effect executing means for executing a normal symbol lottery trigger generation promotion effect that prompts the normal symbol lottery trigger to be generated at the end time. In the gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 4,
The variable start winning device is:
When the second variable winning device is disposed downstream of the second variable winning device and the second variable winning device opens the second large winning opening, a game ball enters the second variable winning device. The gaming machine does not reach the variable start winning device.