JP2017006711A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To improve game properties by making a player continuously feel a sense of expectancy.SOLUTION: A game machine 100 includes a lottery part 201, a special symbol control part 202, a performance executing part 203, and a light emission part 204. The lottery part 201 executes a lottery for winning a jackpot at a prescribed probability when a game ball shot into a game area on a game board enters a prescribed starting hole on the game board. The special symbol control part 202 varies special symbols for suggesting the result of the lottery on the basis of the result of the lottery executed by the lottery part 201, and stops the variation with symbols suggesting the result of the lottery. The performance executing part 203 executes performance (hereinafter "continuous performance") to be continued while the special symbols are variably displayed a plurality of times by the special symbol control part 202. The performance execution part 203 causes a light emission part having a prescribed light source for performance to emit light in the continuous performance.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine that performs a lottery that wins a jackpot with a predetermined probability when a game ball launched into a game area on a game board wins a predetermined start opening.

  Conventionally, for example, when a game ball launched into a game area of a game board wins a predetermined start opening, three rows of symbols (for example, symbols of numbers 1 to 12) are variably displayed on a variable display device, and a specific combination ( For example, there was a gaming machine that would be a big hit when stopped and displayed at "7,7,7"). Some of these gaming machines display various effects in addition to the above symbols on the variable display device.

  In addition, during the execution of an effect, in addition to displaying various effects on the variable display device, a gaming machine that lights a lamp or the like provided in the gaming machine has been widely used in recent years. For example, such a gaming machine includes a gaming machine that emits light by engaging a launch handle device with a lottery result (winning) of a big hit lottery (for example, see Patent Document 1 below).

JP 2007-44365 A

  However, in the above-described prior art, the emission of the launch handle device (the lamp) is an effect on the fluctuation at that time, and there is a problem that the player's expectation cannot be maintained for a long time. That is, in the above-described prior art, when the launch handle device emits light, the player can have a sense of expectation for the fluctuation when the light is emitted, but has a sense of expectation for the subsequent fluctuation. I can't. Therefore, if the launch handle device does not win a big deal due to the light emission, the player may lose his expectation and stop playing.

  An object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine capable of maintaining a player's expectation and allowing a player to play a game for a long time in order to solve the above-described problems caused by the prior art. .

  In order to solve the above-described problems and achieve the object, a gaming machine according to the present invention is configured such that a game ball launched into a game area on a game board is different from the first starting opening and the first starting opening. Every time a winning is made to the mouth, an acquisition means for acquiring a random number used in the jackpot lottery, and when a random number is acquired by the acquisition means, whether or not the jackpot lottery using the random number is determined in advance Each time the jackpot lottery is performed by the lottery means, the lottery means for performing the jackpot lottery sequentially in accordance with a predetermined order based on the random number acquired by the prior determination means, the acquisition means, and the lottery means Special symbol control means for stopping the game so as to represent the lottery result of the jackpot lottery after changing the design, and effect execution means capable of executing a predetermined effect The effect execution means can execute a continuation effect that can be continued across a plurality of fluctuations of the special symbol and a jackpot notification effect for notifying that it is a big hit, and when the pre-determination means makes a big hit If determined, it is possible to execute the continuation effect across a plurality of variations up to the variation of the special symbol (hereinafter referred to as “hit variation”) by the jackpot lottery using the random number that is the jackpot. When an effect is executed, the jackpot notification effect may be executed in the jackpot variation. On the other hand, when it is determined by the prior determination means that the jackpot will not be a jackpot, the jackpot using a random number that does not become the jackpot The continuation effect that spans multiple variations up to the variation of the special symbol (hereinafter referred to as “non-big hit variation”) by lottery A possible line, when running the continuous effect, as well to terminate the continued effect in the non-jackpot variations, in the non-jackpot variation is characterized in that it does not execute the jackpot notification effect.

  According to the present invention, there is an effect that a player's expectation can be maintained over a plurality of variations of the special symbol.

It is a front view which shows an example of the game machine concerning embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the functional structure of the game machine concerning embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the hardware constitutions of the game machine concerning embodiment of this invention. It is a disassembled perspective view which shows the structure of an operation handle. It is explanatory drawing (the 1) which shows the state which carried out the cross section of the handle | steering-wheel cover periphery. It is explanatory drawing (the 1) which shows the state which looked at the operation handle of the state which removed the handle cover from the emblem side. It is explanatory drawing (the 1) which shows the state which looked at the operation handle of the state which attached the handlebar cover from the emblem side. It is explanatory drawing (the 2) which shows the state which carried out the cross section of the handle | steering-wheel periphery. It is explanatory drawing (the 2) which shows the state which looked at the operation handle of the state which removed the handle cover from the emblem side. It is explanatory drawing (the 2) which shows the state which looked at the operation handle with the handle cover attached from the emblem side. It is explanatory drawing (the 3) which shows the state which carried out the cross section of the handle | steering-wheel cover periphery. It is explanatory drawing (the 3) which shows the state which looked at the operation handle of the state which removed the handle cover from the emblem side. It is explanatory drawing (the 3) which shows the state which looked at the operation handle of the state which attached the handlebar cover from the emblem side. It is explanatory drawing (the 4) which shows the state which carried out the cross section of handle cover periphery. It is explanatory drawing (the 4) which shows the state which looked at the operation handle of the state which removed the handle cover from the emblem side. It is explanatory drawing (the 4) which shows the state which looked at the operation handle of the state which attached the handlebar cover from the emblem side. It is a flowchart which shows the processing content of the basic control processing of a gaming machine. It is a flowchart which shows the processing content of a winning process. It is a flowchart which shows the processing content of a prior determination process. It is a flowchart which shows the processing content of a special symbol fluctuation | variation / stop process. It is a flowchart which shows the processing content of a continuous effect control process. It is explanatory drawing which shows a specific example of the production | presentation which the game machine of this Embodiment performs. It is a timing chart of a specific example of an effect performed by the gaming machine of the present embodiment.

  Exemplary embodiments of a gaming machine according to the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

(Basic configuration of gaming machine)
First, the basic configuration of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 1 is a front view showing an example of a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 1, the gaming machine 100 of the present embodiment includes a gaming board 101. A launcher (see reference numeral 392 in FIG. 3) is disposed at a lower position of the game board 101.

  The game ball launched by driving the launching unit rises between the rails 102 a and 102 b and reaches the upper position of the game board 101, and then falls within the game area 103. The game area 103 is provided with a plurality of nails (not shown), and the game balls fall in an unspecified direction by the nails. In the game area 103, a windmill and various winning openings (such as a start opening and a big winning opening) that change the falling direction of the gaming balls are arranged at positions in the middle of the falling of the gaming balls.

  An image display unit 104 is disposed at a substantially central portion of the game board 101. As the image display unit 104, a liquid crystal display (LCD: Liquid Crystal Display) or the like is used. A first start port 105 and a second start port 106 are disposed below the image display unit 104. The first start port 105 and the second start port 106 are winning ports for starting and winning.

  An electric tulip 107 is provided in the vicinity of the second start port 106. The electric tulip 107 has a closed state (a closed state) that makes it difficult to win the game ball to the second starting port 106 and an open state (opened state) that makes it easier to win a prize than the closed state. Control of these states is performed by a solenoid (see reference numeral 331 in FIG. 3) provided in the electric tulip 107.

  The electric tulip 107 is opened based on the lottery result of the normal symbol lottery performed when the game ball passes through the gate 108 arranged on the left side of the image display unit 104. The gate 108 is not limited to the left side (the illustrated position) of the image display unit 104, and may be disposed at an arbitrary position in the game area 103.

  A big prize opening 109 is provided below the second start opening 106. The big winning opening 109 is a winning opening that is opened when a big hit state is reached and for paying out a predetermined number (for example, 15) of winning balls by winning a game ball.

  A normal winning opening 110 is provided on the side of the image display unit 104 or below. The normal winning opening 110 is a winning opening for paying out a predetermined number (for example, 10) of winning balls by winning a game ball. The normal winning opening 110 is not limited to the position shown in the figure, and may be arranged at an arbitrary position in the game area 103. At the bottom of the game area 103, there is provided a collection port 111 for collecting game balls that have not won any winning ports.

  In the lower right part of the game board 101, a special symbol display unit 112 for displaying special symbols is arranged. Here, the special symbol is a symbol representing the lottery result of the jackpot lottery performed by winning the first starting port 105 or the second starting port 106. The jackpot lottery is a lottery for determining whether or not the gaming state is a jackpot state.

  In addition, a normal symbol display portion 113 for displaying normal symbols is arranged in the lower right portion of the game board 101. Here, the normal symbol is a symbol representing the lottery result of the normal symbol lottery. The normal symbol lottery is a lottery for determining whether or not to open the electric tulip 107 as described above. For example, a 7-segment display is used as the special symbol display unit 112 and the normal symbol display unit 113.

  On the left side of the special symbol display unit 112 and the normal symbol display unit 113, a reservation number display unit 114 for displaying the number of reservations for the special symbol or the normal symbol is arranged. For example, an LED is used as the hold number display unit 114. A plurality of LEDs serving as the number-of-holds display section 114 are arranged, and the number of the holds is indicated by turning on / off. For example, when two upper LEDs among the LEDs constituting the number-of-holds display unit 114 are lit, this indicates that the number of holds for the normal symbol is two.

  A frame member 115 is provided on the outer peripheral portion of the game area 103 of the game board 101. The frame member 115 has a shape that surrounds the periphery of the game area 103 on the four sides of the game board 101 in the vertical and horizontal directions. The frame member 115 has a shape protruding from the board surface of the game board 101 toward the player side.

  On the two sides which are the upper side and the lower side of the game area 103 in the frame member 115, an effect light part (frame lamp) 116 is provided. Each effect light unit 116 includes a plurality of lamps and a motor (not shown). Each lamp irradiates a player who is in front of the gaming machine 100. Moreover, each lamp can change the irradiation direction of light into the up-down direction and the left-right direction by driving the motor. In addition, each lamp can irradiate the periphery of the gaming machine 100, and the irradiation direction of light can be rotated so that the irradiation position forms a circle with respect to the gaming machine 100.

  An operation handle 117 is disposed at a lower position of the frame member 115. The operation handle 117 is operated by the player when the game ball is fired by driving the launching unit. Similar to the frame member 115 described above, the operation handle 117 has a shape that protrudes from the board surface of the game board 101 to the player side.

  The operation handle 117 includes a firing instruction member 118 that drives the above-described launching unit to launch a game ball. The firing instruction member 118 is provided on the outer peripheral portion of the operation handle 117 so as to be rotated clockwise as viewed from the player. Although not described because it is a known technique, the operation handle 117 is provided with a sensor that detects that the player directly operates the firing instruction member 118. Thereby, the launching unit launches the game ball when the firing instruction member 118 is directly operated by the player. In addition, the operation handle 117 includes a light emitting unit (a light emitting unit 204 described later) having a predetermined light source for production.

  In the frame member 115, an effect button (chance button) 119 and a cross key 120 are provided on the lower side of the game area 103. The effect buttons 119 and the cross key 120 constitute an operation unit that receives an operation from a player in the gaming machine 100. The frame member 115 incorporates a speaker (see reference numeral 354 in FIG. 3) that outputs sound.

  Although illustration is omitted, an effect for the effect (hereinafter referred to as an “effect effect” (see reference numeral 365 in FIG. 3)) is provided at a predetermined position in the game area 103 (for example, around the image display unit 104). ing. This performance agent includes a solenoid and a motor (not shown), and is driven by driving the solenoid and the motor.

(Functional configuration of gaming machine of this embodiment)
Next, a functional configuration of the gaming machine 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 2, the gaming machine 100 includes a lottery unit 201, a special symbol control unit 202, an effect execution unit 203, and a light emitting unit 204.

  The lottery unit 201 wins a big hit with a predetermined probability by winning a game ball launched into the game area 103 on the game board 101 to a predetermined start port (the first start port 105 or the second start port 106). A lottery to perform (hereinafter referred to as “big hit lottery”). For example, the lottery unit 201 obtains a predetermined random number (hereinafter referred to as “big hit random number”) every time a game ball wins the first start opening 105 or the second start opening 106, A lottery lottery is performed using a lottery table.

  The special symbol control unit 202 has a function of changing the special symbol for representing the lottery result based on the lottery result of the lottery unit 201 and stopping the symbol at the symbol representing the lottery result. For example, when the special symbol control unit 202 obtains the lottery result of the lottery unit 201, the special symbol control unit 202 determines a period during which the special symbol is varied (hereinafter referred to as “variation time”) and starts the variation of the special symbol. When the variation time has elapsed since the beginning of the variation, the special symbol is stopped at a symbol representing the lottery result of the lottery unit 201 (for example, “−” for the loss and “7” for the jackpot).

  The effect execution unit 203 starts from a predetermined change in which the special symbol is changed by the special symbol control unit 202 (for example, a change in which a continuation effect flag described later is set to ON) until the special symbol is changed a plurality of times ( It also has a function of executing a continuous effect (hereinafter referred to as “continuous effect”) during the interval between each variation). For example, the effect executing unit 203 executes a continuous effect of causing the light emitting unit 204 having a predetermined light source for effect (hereinafter referred to as “light source for effect”) to emit light.

  For example, the light emitting unit 204 changes a plurality of LEDs that emit light when energized (for example, LED 412 and LED 413 described later), a reflecting member that reflects light emitted by these LEDs, and a reflection direction by the reflecting member. A motor for rotating the reflecting member is provided. Thereby, the light emission part 204 can increase the production effect by making the light emission part 204 light-emit by reflecting the emitted light from LED in multiple directions using a reflecting member.

  For example, the light emitting unit 204 is provided in the operation handle 117. Although details will be described later, at least a part of the operation handle 117 is covered with a light-transmitting handle cover (a handle cover 404 described later). Therefore, the light emitted from the light emitting unit 204 reaches the outside of the operation handle 117 through the handle cover, and the player can visually recognize the light emitted from the light emitting unit 204.

  In addition, the gaming machine 100 may include a prior determination unit 205 and a hold determination unit 206, as shown in FIG. Here, each time the game ball wins a predetermined start port (the first start port 105 or the second start port 106), the prior determination unit 205 determines whether or not the game ball wins a big win. It has a function. Further, the pre-determination unit 205 may determine whether or not the game ball is a specific loss (hereinafter referred to as “small hit”) each time the game ball wins a predetermined start opening. For example, the small hit here is a loss of execution of the same effect as a two-round probability variation big hit described later. Details of the pre-determination process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  The hold determination unit 206 has a function of determining whether there is a big hit in the unchanged hold based on the determination result of the prior determination unit 205. Furthermore, the hold determination unit 206 may determine whether there is a small hit in the unchanged hold.

  Here, the hold will be described. Although a detailed description is omitted because it is a known technique, the gaming machine 100 includes a detection unit 210 that detects a game ball that has won a predetermined starting opening, and each time the detection unit 210 detects a game ball, , Get the aforementioned jackpot random number. Then, the jackpot lottery is performed using the jackpot random number. If the game ball wins a predetermined starting point during the change of the special symbol, the special symbol for the newly won game ball cannot be changed immediately. For this reason, the jackpot random number is temporarily stored as a hold. For example, the gaming machine 100 can store up to four holds.

  In the case where the prior determination unit 205 and the hold determination unit 206 are provided, the effect execution unit 203 has the special symbol control unit 202 that holds a big hit when the hold determination unit 206 determines that there is a big win. Continue production until it is digested. Here, “holding is consumed” means that a special symbol is changed using the jackpot random number of the holding. In addition, even when the hold determination unit 206 determines that there is a small hit, the effect execution unit 203 executes a continuous effect until the special symbol control unit 202 digests the hold that is a small hit. Also good. In addition, for example, hold is assumed to be digested sequentially in accordance with the order of hold or a predetermined priority.

(Hardware configuration of gaming machine of this embodiment)
Next, a hardware configuration of the gaming machine 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 3, the control unit 300 of the gaming machine 100 includes a main control unit 301 that controls the progress of the game, an effect control unit 302 that controls the contents of the effect, and a prize ball control unit that controls the payout of the prize ball. 303. The configuration of each control unit will be described in detail below.

(1. Main control unit)
The main control unit 301 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 311, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 312, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 313, an input / output interface (I / O) (not shown), and the like. The

  The CPU 311 executes game control processing for performing jackpot lottery, variation pattern selection, game state control, and the like. The ROM 312 stores various programs necessary for the CPU 311 to execute the above processing. The RAM 313 functions as a work area for the CPU 311. Note that data set in the RAM 313 by the CPU 311 executing various programs is output to each component connected to the main control unit 301.

  That is, the main control unit 301 functions to control the progress of the game of the gaming machine 100 by executing various programs stored in the ROM 312 while the CPU 311 uses the RAM 313 as a work area. For example, the main control unit 301 is realized by a main control board (detailed description is omitted because it is a known technique).

  The main control unit 301 includes various switches (SW) that function as detection means for detecting a game ball, a solenoid for opening and closing an electric accessory such as a big prize opening, the special symbol display unit 112, and a normal symbol display. The unit 113 and the hold number display unit 114 are connected.

  Specifically, the various SWs described above include a first start port SW321 that detects a game ball won in the first start port 105, and a second start port SW322 that detects a game ball won in the second start port 106. , A gate SW 323 that detects a game ball that has passed through the gate 108, a big winning opening SW 324 that detects a gaming ball that has won a prize winning opening 109, and a normal winning opening SW 325 that detects a gaming ball that has won a winning prize 110 Is connected to the main control unit 301.

  Detection signals from the respective SWs (321 to 325) are input to the main control unit 301. A proximity switch or the like can be used for these SWs. It should be noted that a plurality of the normal winning opening SW325 may be provided for each arrangement position of the normal winning opening 110.

  In addition, as the solenoid, an electric tulip solenoid 331 that opens and closes the electric tulip 107 and a large winning opening solenoid 332 that opens and closes the large winning opening 109 are connected to the main control unit 301. The main control unit 301 controls driving of the solenoids (331, 332). For example, the main control unit 301 controls the driving of the electric tulip solenoid 331 based on the lottery result of the normal symbol lottery. The main control unit 301 controls the driving of the big prize opening solenoid 332 based on the lottery result of the big hit lottery.

  Further, the main control unit 301 controls the display contents of the special symbol display unit 112 and the normal symbol display unit 113 based on the lottery results of the jackpot lottery and the normal symbol lottery. For example, the main control unit 301 variably displays the special symbol on the special symbol display unit 112 when the jackpot lottery is performed. Then, after a predetermined period, the special symbol is stopped and displayed with the symbol indicating the lottery result of the big hit lottery.

  Similarly, when the normal symbol lottery is performed, the main control unit 301 variably displays the normal symbols on the normal symbol display unit 113. Then, after the predetermined period, the normal symbol is stopped and displayed with the symbol indicating the lottery result of the normal symbol lottery.

  Further, the main control unit 301 is also connected to the effect control unit 302 and the prize ball control unit 303, and outputs various commands to the respective control units. For example, the main control unit 301 outputs a change start command to the effect control unit 302 when performing a big hit lottery. Here, the change start command includes information indicating a gaming state, time for displaying a special symbol in a variable manner (hereinafter referred to as “variable time”), information indicating a lottery result of a big hit lottery (a special symbol to be stopped), and the like. include. Then, the main control unit 301 outputs a prize ball command to the prize ball control unit 303 when detecting the winning of the game ball to the prize opening. Here, the prize ball command includes information indicating the number of prize balls to be paid out.

(2. Production control unit)
The effect control unit 302 includes an effect control unit 302a, an image / sound control unit 302b, and a lamp control unit 302c, and has a function of controlling the contents of the effect of the gaming machine 100. Here, the effect control unit 302a has a function of controlling the entire effect control unit 302 based on a command (for example, a change start command) received from the main control unit 301. The image / sound control unit 302b has a function of controlling the image and sound based on the instruction content from the production control unit 302a. The lamp control unit 302c has a function of controlling lighting of lamps (not shown) provided on the game board 101, the frame member 115, and the like in addition to the lamps of the handle light unit.

(2-1. Director of Production)
First, the configuration of the production control unit 302a will be described. The production control unit 302a includes a CPU 341, a ROM 342, a RAM 343, a real time clock (hereinafter referred to as “RTC”) 344, an input / output interface (I / O) (not shown), and the like.

  The CPU 341 selects an effect to be executed based on the change start command and the like, and outputs an instruction content such as an image, sound, and lamp lighting corresponding to the effect to the image / sound control unit 302b and the lamp control unit 302c. Execute processing. The ROM 342 stores various programs necessary for the CPU 341 to execute the above processing. The RAM 343 functions as a work area for the CPU 341. The data set in the RAM 343 when the CPU 341 executes the program is output to the image / sound controller 302b and the lamp controller 302c at a predetermined timing.

  In other words, the effect control unit 302a functions to control the entire effect control unit 302 by executing a program stored in the ROM 342 while the CPU 341 uses the RAM 343 as a work area. For example, the effect supervising unit 302a determines an effect to be executed in accordance with the change display of the special symbol based on the change start command, and executes predetermined processing on the image / sound control unit 302b and the lamp control unit 302c. The instruction is output to control the entire production control unit 302.

  The RTC 344 functions as a time measuring means for measuring and outputting real time. The RTC 344 continues the clocking operation with a backup power source (not shown) even when the gaming machine 100 is powered off. Note that the RTC 344 is not limited to the example in which the RTC 344 is arranged in the production control unit 302 such as the production control unit 302a, but may be arranged in the main control unit 301. Further, the RTC 344 may be arranged alone and clock and output real time to the effect control unit 302 and the main control unit 301.

  In addition, an effect button 119 is connected to the effect control unit 302a. For example, when the production button 119 receives an operation from the player, the production button 119 inputs corresponding data to the production control unit 302a. Moreover, although illustration is abbreviate | omitted in FIG. 3, the cross key 120 is also connected to the production control part 302a. The cross key 120 inputs an input signal corresponding to the key selected by the player to the effect control unit 302a.

(2-2. Image / Audio Control Unit)
Next, the configuration of the image / sound controller 302b will be described. The image / audio control unit 302b includes a CPU 351, a ROM 352, a RAM 353, an input / output interface (I / O) (not shown), and the like.

  The CPU 351 executes image / sound generation processing and output processing. The ROM 352 stores a program for executing image / sound generation processing and output processing, various image data such as background images, effect design images, and character images necessary for the processing, various sound data, and the like. . The RAM 353 functions as a work area for the CPU 351 and temporarily stores image data to be displayed on the image display unit 104 and audio data to be output from the speaker 354.

  That is, the image / sound control unit 302b performs image and sound control based on an instruction from the production control unit 302a by executing a program stored in the ROM 352 while the CPU 351 uses the RAM 353 as a work area. To function.

  For example, the CPU 351 executes various image processing and sound processing such as background image display processing, effect design variation / stop display processing, and character image display processing based on the instruction content instructed from the effect supervising unit 302a. At this time, the CPU 351 reads image data and audio data necessary for processing from the ROM 352 and writes them in the RAM 353.

  Image data such as background images and effect design images written in the RAM 353 is output to the image display unit 104 connected to the image / sound control unit 302b, and is superimposed on the display screen of the image display unit 104. . That is, the effect design image is displayed so as to be seen in front of the background image. When the background image and the design image overlap at the same position, the design image is prioritized in the RAM 353 by referring to the Z value of the Z buffer of each image data by a known hidden surface removal method such as the Z buffer method. Remember me.

  The audio data written in the RAM 353 is output to the speaker 354 connected to the image / audio control unit 302b, and audio based on the audio data is output from the speaker 354.

(2-3. Lamp control unit)
Next, the configuration of the lamp control unit 302c will be described. The lamp control unit 302c includes a CPU 361, a ROM 362, a RAM 363, an input / output interface (I / O) (not shown), and the like. The CPU 361 executes processing for lighting the lamp and the like. The ROM 362 stores various programs necessary for executing the above processing, control data used for lamp lighting necessary for the processing, and the like. The RAM 363 functions as a work area for the CPU 361.

  The lamp control unit 302c is connected to the effect light unit (frame lamp) 116, the panel lamp 364, the effect agent 365, and the light emitting unit 204, and outputs data for lighting control and data for operation control. Accordingly, the lamp control unit 302c functions to control the lighting of the lamps provided on the game board 101, the frame member 115, and the like, and the operation of the effect actor 365.

  In the present embodiment, the production control unit 302 includes a production control unit 302a, an image / sound control unit 302b, and a lamp control unit 302c that are provided as different board functions, but these are configured on the same printed board. May be. However, each function is independent even when they are incorporated on the same printed circuit board.

(3. Prize ball control unit)
Next, the configuration of the winning ball control unit 303 will be described. The prize ball control unit 303 includes a CPU 381, a ROM 382, a RAM 383, an input / output interface (I / O) (not shown), and the like. The CPU 381 executes a prize ball control process for controlling a prize ball to be paid out. The ROM 382 stores programs necessary for the processing. The RAM 383 functions as a work area for the CPU 381.

  The prize ball control unit 303 is connected to a payout unit (payout drive motor) 391, a launch unit 392, a fixed position detection SW393, a payout ball detection SW394, a ball presence detection SW395, and a full tank detection SW396. .

  The winning ball control unit 303 controls the paying unit 391 to pay out the number of winning balls at the time of winning. The payout unit 391 includes a motor for paying out a predetermined number from the game ball storage unit. Specifically, the winning ball control unit 303 applies the game balls won to the winning units 391 to the winning ports (the first starting port 105, the second starting port 106, the big winning port 109, and the normal winning port 110). Control to pay out the corresponding number of prize balls.

  Further, the prize ball control unit 303 detects the operation of launching the game ball with respect to the launch unit 392 and controls the launch of the game ball. The launching unit 392 launches a game ball for a game, and includes a sensor that detects a game operation by the player, a solenoid that launches the game ball, and the like. When the award ball control unit 303 detects a game operation by the sensor of the launch unit 392, the game ball 103 is intermittently fired by driving a solenoid or the like in response to the detected game operation, thereby playing the game area 103 of the game board 101. A game ball is sent out.

  The prize ball control unit 303 is connected to various detection units for detecting the state of the game ball to be paid out, and detects the payout state for the prize ball. These detection units include a fixed position detection SW 393, a payout ball detection SW 394, a ball presence detection SW 395, a full tank detection SW 396, and the like. For example, the prize ball control unit 303 realizes its function with a prize ball board.

  The main control unit 301, the effect control unit 302, and the prize ball control unit 303 configured as described above are provided on different printed circuit boards (main control board, effect control board, and prize ball control board). For example, the prize ball control unit 303 may be provided on the same printed circuit board as the main control unit 301.

  In addition, a panel external information terminal board 397 is connected to the main control unit 301, and various information executed by the main control unit 301 can be output to the outside. The prize ball control unit 303 is also connected to the frame external information terminal board 398, and can output various information executed by the prize ball control unit 303 to the outside.

  The lottery unit 201 is realized by the CPU 311 and the ROM 312, the special symbol control unit 202 is realized by the CPU 311, the ROM 312 and the special symbol display unit 112, and the effect execution unit 203 is realized by the CPU 341 and the ROM 342. Can do.

(Game state of the gaming machine of this embodiment)
Next, the gaming state of the gaming machine 100 of this embodiment will be described. As described above, the main control unit 301 controls the gaming state of the gaming machine 100 and the like. Here, the gaming machine 100 has five game states consisting of (1) jackpot state, (2) normal state, (3) short-time state, (4) probability variation state, and (5) latent probability variation state. have. Each gaming state will be described below.

  The jackpot state is a gaming state that is executed when a jackpot is won. The jackpot state is continued until a predetermined jackpot end condition set for each jackpot type is satisfied. For example, in the present embodiment, the “biggest game 15 rounds of digestion” is the jackpot end condition for the 15 round probability change / normal jackpot. In addition, in the 2 rounds probable jackpot, “digestion of 2 rounds of jackpot game” is the jackpot end condition. In the jackpot game, the big prize opening 109 is opened for a predetermined period (or until there is a predetermined number of prizes). When the jackpot end condition is satisfied, the game state is set for each jackpot type.

  The normal state is a gaming state that is executed at normal times. In other words, the gaming state is executed when the gaming state is not other. In the normal state, the jackpot lottery is performed using the jackpot determination table for the low probability state (hereinafter referred to as “low probability determination table”), and for example, the jackpot is won with a probability of 1/300. Further, in a normal state, the electric tulip 107 is not opened so much by a predetermined electric tulip control process (not shown) (and is closed immediately even if opened). For this reason, in a normal state, it is difficult to win a game ball to the second start port 106.

  The short-time state is a gaming state that is executed after a jackpot state due to a normal jackpot for 15 rounds. The short-time state is continued until a predetermined short-time end condition is satisfied. For example, in the present embodiment, “100 times special symbol variation” is the short-time end condition. When the short-time end condition is satisfied, the normal state is entered. In the short-time state, the jackpot lottery is performed using the low probability determination table, and the jackpot is won with the same probability as in the normal state. In the short time state, the electric tulip 107 is frequently opened by a predetermined electric tulip control process (not shown), and it is easier to win a game ball to the second starting port 106 than in the normal state.

  The probability change state is a gaming state that is executed after the jackpot state due to the 15-round probability change jackpot. The probability variation state is continued until a predetermined probability variation termination condition is satisfied. For example, in the present embodiment, “winning any one of the jackpots” is a probability change termination condition. In the probability variation state, a jackpot lottery is performed using a jackpot determination table for a high probability state (hereinafter referred to as “high probability determination table”), and for example, a jackpot is won with a probability of 1/30. In the certain change state, the electric tulip 107 is frequently opened by the electric tulip control process, and it is easier to win a game ball to the second starting port 106 than in the normal state.

  The latent probability changing state is a gaming state that is executed after the jackpot state due to the two-round probability changing jackpot. The latent probability changing state is continued until a predetermined probability changing end condition (winning of any jackpot) is satisfied, as in the probability changing state. In the latent probability changing state, a jackpot lottery is performed using a high probability determination table, and the jackpot is won with the same probability as in the probability changing state. In addition, the latent probability changing state is different from the probability changing state, and the electric tulip 107 is controlled in the same manner as in the normal state. That is, in the latent probability changing state, it is more difficult to win a game ball to the second starting port 106 than in the probability changing state.

  That is, in the gaming machine 100 according to the present embodiment, the normal state and the short-time state are low-probability states with low probability of jackpots, and the probability variation state and the latent probability variation state have higher probability of jackpots than the low-probability state. High probability state.

(Basic operation of the gaming machine of this embodiment)
Next, an example of the basic operation of the gaming machine 100 of the present embodiment will be described. When the gaming ball wins the first starting port 105 or the second starting port 106, the gaming machine 100 performs a jackpot lottery. At this time, the special symbol displayed on the special symbol display unit 112 is variably displayed. Then, after a predetermined period, the special symbol is stopped and displayed with a symbol indicating the lottery result of the jackpot lottery.

  When the special symbol is variably displayed, the gaming machine 100 displays the symbol for the effect (hereinafter referred to as “effect symbol”) on the image display unit 104 accordingly. At this time, not only the effect symbols but also various images (for example, character images and background images) based on the effect being executed may be displayed on the image display unit 104 in accordance with the variation display of the effect symbols.

  When the special symbol is stopped and displayed, the effect display symbol is also stopped and displayed on the image display unit 104. For example, when a special symbol is stopped and displayed with a predetermined symbol indicating a jackpot (the jackpot lottery is won), the gaming machine 100 stops and displays the effect symbol with a specific combination indicating a jackpot (for example, "7, 7, 7").

  In addition, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed with a predetermined symbol indicating a jackpot, the gaming machine 100 sets the gaming state to a jackpot state, and rounds (for example, 15 rounds) corresponding to the type of winning jackpot, Open. When a game ball wins the big winning opening 109 during the opening, the gaming machine 100 pays out a predetermined number of prize balls.

  When the jackpot state is reached, the gaming machine 100 executes a jackpot effect for jackpot. For example, in the jackpot effect, a background image for the jackpot effect is displayed on the image display unit 104. At this time, the winning jackpot type may be displayed. In addition, even if the 15-round probability change jackpot is won, “15 wins for normal round jackpot” may be displayed and a promotion effect of “winning for 15-round probability jackpot” may be performed at a predetermined timing.

  The jackpot state ends when the jackpot end condition set for each winning jackpot type is satisfied, and the gaming machine 100 enters another gaming state. For example, if a 15-round probability change jackpot is won, the gaming machine 100 enters a probability change state when the jackpot state ends. Further, the gaming machine 100 is in a time-saving state when the big hit state ends when the 15-round normal jackpot is won, and enters the latent probability changing state when the big hit state ends when the two-round probability changing big win is won.

  In addition, the gaming machine 100 performs a normal symbol lottery when the game ball passes through the gate 108. At this time, the normal symbol on the normal symbol display unit 113 is displayed in a variable manner. Then, after a predetermined period, the normal symbol is stopped and displayed with the symbol indicating the lottery result of the normal symbol lottery. When the normal symbol is stopped and displayed with a predetermined symbol indicating the normal symbol (the normal symbol lottery is won for the normal symbol), the gaming machine 100 opens the electric tulip 107 for a predetermined period.

(Detailed configuration of operation handle)
Next, a detailed configuration of the operation handle 117 will be described. FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view showing the configuration of the operation handle. In FIG. 4, the operation handle 117 includes a base portion 401 that supports the above-described firing instruction member 118. The base 401 has a substantially cylindrical shape with an opening 402 provided on the player side. The firing instructing member 118 has a substantially ring shape, and is attached to the base portion 401 in a state where it abuts against the opening 402 of the base portion 401. When the firing instruction member 118 is attached to the base portion 401, the firing instruction member 118 is rotatable relative to the base portion 401 around the same axis as the axis of the base portion 401.

  In the operation handle 117, a projection 403 is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the firing instruction member 118. The protrusions 403 protrude on the outer peripheral side of the firing instruction member 118, and a plurality of protrusions 403 are provided. The player holds the operation handle 117 with a finger placed between the plurality of protrusions 403 or the protrusions 403 and rotates the firing instruction member 118. By providing the projection instructing member 118 with the protrusion 403, the player can easily rotate the firing instructing member 118. Further, by providing the projection instruction member 118 with the projection 403, it can be accurately determined whether or not the player is directly operating.

  In the firing instruction member 118, a handle cover (cover member) 404 is provided on the side opposite to the base 401. The handle cover 404 forms a space for accommodating the light emitting unit 204 together with the base unit 401 and the firing instruction member 118. In the space, a motor 405, a white LED substrate 406, a support member 407, a red LED substrate 408, a fixed reflecting member 409, and a rotating reflecting member 410 are provided.

  The motor 405, the white LED substrate 406, the support member 407, and the red LED substrate 408 are provided closer to the base 401 than the fixed reflection member 409, and the rotation reflection member 410 is a handle cover than the fixed reflection member 409. 404 side is provided.

  The motor 405 generates a driving force by rotating around the same axis as the axis of the base portion 401. The motor 405 is provided with a drive shaft (rotating shaft) 405 a that transmits the driving force of the motor 405. The drive shaft 405a is provided so as to extend from the motor 405 in the forward direction (player side) of the game board 101.

  The white LED substrate 406 has a hollow disk shape (donut shape) that avoids the drive shaft 405a of the motor 405. On the white LED substrate 406, a plurality of (six in FIG. 4) LEDs 412 are mounted around the drive axis of the motor 405. The LED 412 mounted on the white LED substrate 406 emits white light.

  The red LED substrate 408 supports the LED 413 that emits red light. The red LED substrate 408 is fixed to the white LED substrate 406 by the support member 407. The red LED board 408 penetrates the hole provided in the fixed reflecting member 409 so that the LED 413 is positioned on the handle cover 404 side than the white LED board 406, and protrudes from the fixed reflecting member 409 to the handle cover 404 side. Supported by the state. The LED 413 always emits light upward in a predetermined direction substantially orthogonal to the drive shaft 405a. The light emitted from the LED 413 is always emitted in one direction.

  For example, the lamp controller 302c outputs an LED lighting control signal such that the LEDs 412 and 413 are intermittently lit to the white LED board 406 and the red LED board 408. The lamp control unit 302c outputs an LED lighting control signal such that the LEDs 412 and the LED 413 are alternately lit while maintaining the rotation of the rotary reflecting member 410 with respect to the white LED board 406 and the red LED board 408. To do. The light source is not limited to the LEDs 412 and 413, and various known light sources such as a light bulb can be used.

  The fixed reflecting member 409 is a multi-faceted reflecting member in which a plurality of reflecting surfaces 414 are arranged in a radial pattern around the drive shaft 405a, and reflects incident light toward the handle cover 404 side. Each reflecting surface 414 is spaced apart from the player at the center, and protrudes toward the player as the outer peripheral portion. The fixed reflecting member 409 includes a plurality of holes 415 at positions corresponding to the LEDs 412 in the outer peripheral portion protruding to the player side. The LED 412 emits white light through the hole 415 while facing the handle cover 404 side from the fixed reflecting member 409.

  The drive shaft 405a of the motor 405 protrudes toward the handle cover 404 via the white LED substrate 406, the support member 407, and the fixed reflection member 409. The rotation reflection member 410 is provided at the tip of the drive shaft 405a protruding toward the handle cover 404 side. The rotation reflecting member 410 is connected to the drive shaft 405a in a state of being rotatable about the axis of the drive shaft 405a.

  The rotation direction of the rotation reflection member 410 may be clockwise or counterclockwise when viewed from the player. In the gaming machine 100 of the present embodiment, the rotation direction of the rotary reflecting member 410 is clockwise when viewed from the player. This direction is the same as the direction in which the game ball is fired by the launcher 392.

  The rotation reflection member 410 is provided on the drive shaft 405a so as to rotate around the LED 413 in a state of covering all (or part of) the LED 413. The rotation reflection member 410 in the gaming machine 100 has a hood shape that covers the LED 413 and the tip of the drive shaft 405a. The rotary reflecting member 410 is formed using a lightweight material such as a plastic material (material). By forming the rotary reflecting member 410 from a lightweight material (material), the centrifugal force generated by the rotation of the rotary reflecting member 410 can be reduced, and vibration caused by the rotation of the rotary reflecting member 410 can be reduced. Generation can be suppressed as much as possible.

  The inner side and the outer side of the rotary reflecting member 410 are mirror surfaces that reflect the light emitted by the LED 413. The rotary reflecting member 410 includes an opening 417 that emits light reflected by the inner mirror surface (inner surface) 416 toward the fixed reflecting member 409.

  The light emitted from the LED 413 is reflected by the mirror surface 416 on the inner side of the rotary reflection member 410 and then reaches the outside of the rotary reflection member 410 through the opening 417. A part of the light reaching the outside of the rotary reflecting member 410 passes through the handle cover 404 and reaches the outside of the operation handle 117, and another part enters the fixed reflecting member 409.

  The direction of the light reflected by the mirror surface 416 on the inner side of the rotary reflecting member 410 changes with the rotation of the rotary reflecting member 410 (see FIGS. 5 to 8). As a result, the incident angle of the light incident on the fixed reflecting member 409 and the traveling direction of the light reflected by the fixed reflecting member 409 change. The light reflected by the mirror surface 416 inside the rotary reflecting member 410 and reflected by the fixed reflecting member 409 is emitted to the outside of the operation handle 117 via the handle cover 404.

  The outside of the rotary reflecting member 410 is also a mirror surface, and a part of the light reflected by the fixed reflecting member 409 is reflected by the outer mirror surface 418 and then enters the handle cover 404, and then passes through the handle cover 404. The light is emitted outside the operation handle 117.

  The handle cover 404 is formed in a substantially hemispherical shape having an opening that opens toward the fixed reflecting member 409 using, for example, a plastic material having optical transparency. On the inner peripheral surface of the handle cover 404, ribs (or slits) that extend radially from the substantially hemispherical apex portion toward the periphery of the opening are provided. The rib (or slit) extends in a direction intersecting the movement locus of the opening 417 that rotates as the motor 405 rotates. By providing the rib (or slit), the internal structure of the handle cover 404 is not visible from the outside of the handle cover 404.

  An emblem 419 made of a material that does not transmit light is provided at the apex portion of the handle cover 404. The emblem 419 prevents the player from confirming the presence of the rotary reflecting member 410. The emblem 419 can be provided with a logo related to the gaming machine 100, for example. Thereby, the impression which a gaming machine gives to a player can be strengthened, and the promotion effect of gaming machine 100 can be improved.

(Operation handle movement)
FIG. 5 (FIGS. 5-1, 5-2, and 5-3) to FIG. 8 (FIGS. 8-1, 8-2, and 8-3) are explanatory views showing the operation of the operation handle. 5 to 8, the drawing represented by the branch number “−1” shows a state in which the periphery of the handle cover 404 is cut in the operation handle 117.

  In FIGS. 5 (FIGS. 5-1, 5-2, and 5-3) to 8 (FIGS. 8-1, 8-2, and 8-3), the drawing represented by the branch number “-2” is as follows. The operation handle 117 with the handle cover 404 removed is viewed from the emblem 419 side. 5 to 8, the drawing represented by the branch number “−3” shows a state in which the operation handle 117 with the handle cover 404 attached is viewed from the emblem 419 side.

  As described above, the light emitted from the LED 413 is always emitted in one direction. 5 to 8, in the drawings represented by branch numbers "-1" (FIGS. 5-1, 6-1, 7-1, and 8-1), the light emitted from the LED 413 is above the paper surface. Irradiated towards. 5 to 8, in the drawings represented by branch numbers “−2” (FIGS. 5-2, 6-2, 7-2, and 8-2), the light emitted from the LED 413 is left on the page. Irradiation is performed obliquely upward.

  In FIG. 5 (FIGS. 5-1, 5-2, and 5-3), the mirror surface 416 on the inner side of the rotary reflecting member 410 and the LED 413 are opposed to each other. In this state, the light emitted from the LED 413 is reflected by the mirror surface 416 on the inner side of the rotary reflection member 410 in the direction opposite to the light emission direction from the LED 413 and is emitted to the outside of the rotary reflection member 410 through the opening. Then, it enters the fixed reflecting member 409. As a result, when the handle cover 404 is attached, the portion indicated by reference numeral 530 in FIG.

  In FIG. 6 (FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C), a part of the red LED substrate 408 is exposed to the outside of the rotary reflecting member 410. In this state, a part of the light emitted from the LED 413 is reflected by the mirror surface 416 inside the rotary reflecting member 410 in the direction opposite to the light emitting direction from the LED 413, and another part is reflected through the opening 417. Then, the light is directly emitted to the outside of the rotary reflecting member 410.

  A part of the light reflected by the mirror surface 416 inside the rotation reflection member 410 in the direction opposite to the light emission direction from the LED 413 is reflected by the mirror surface 416 inside the rotation reflection member 410 a plurality of times and then the opening 417. Is emitted to the outside of the rotary reflecting member 410. As a result, when the handle cover 404 is attached, the portion indicated by reference numeral 630 in FIG.

  In FIG. 7 (FIGS. 7-1, 7-2, and 7-3), the LED 413 faces the outside of the rotary reflecting member 410 through the opening 417. In this state, all the light emitted from the LED 413 is directly emitted to the outside of the rotary reflecting member 410. As a result, when the handle cover 404 is attached, the portion indicated by reference numeral 730 in FIG.

  In FIG. 8 (FIGS. 8A, 8B, and 8C), the LED 413 is visible from the outside of the rotary reflecting member 410 through the opening 417. In this state, the light emitted from the LED 413 is reflected in the direction opposite to the light emitting direction from the LED 413 by the mirror surface 416 on the inner side of the rotary reflecting member 410, and then the light of the rotary reflecting member 410 through the opening 417. It is emitted to the outside. As a result, when the handle cover 404 is attached, the portion indicated by reference numeral 830 in FIG.

  As shown in FIGS. 5 (FIGS. 5-1, 5-2, and 5-3) to 8 (FIGS. 8-1, 8-2, and 8-3), the rotary reflecting member 410 rotates. As a result, the portion of the operation handle 117 that emits intense light moves around the emblem 419. Thereby, it is possible to give the player an impression as if the light source inside the operation handle 117 is rotating.

  In the pachinko gaming machine, it is prohibited to vibrate the place where the player touches, such as the operation handle 117, but according to the operation handle 117 of this embodiment, the weight is reduced by the plastic material. By rotating the rotary reflecting member 410, it is possible to give an impression as if the light source inside the operation handle 117 is rotating without transmitting vibration to the operation handle 117.

  Further, in the gaming machine 100 of the present embodiment, the rotation direction of the rotation reflecting member 410 is the same as the direction of the game ball fired by the launcher 392, so that the light source inside the operation handle 117 is played by the launcher 392. It can appear to rotate in the same direction as the launch direction of the sphere. Thereby, it is possible to promote the launch of the game ball and to continuously operate the gaming machine 100.

(Processing performed by the gaming machine of this embodiment)
Next, processing performed by the gaming machine 100 of the present embodiment will be described. Each process performed by the main control unit 301 described below is performed by the CPU 311 executing a program stored in the ROM 312.

(Basic control processing)
FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the processing contents of the basic control processing of the gaming machine. This basic control process is a process for controlling the progress of the game of the gaming machine 100, is started when the gaming machine 100 is powered on, and is continuously executed while the gaming machine 100 is activated. is there. As shown in FIG. 9, in the basic control process, the main control unit 301 first executes an initialization process (step S901). In the initialization process, a detailed description is omitted because it is a well-known technique, but a startup check (checksum), restoration to the state before the previous power-off, or RAM clear (recovery to a predetermined initial state), etc. Do it.

  After the initialization process, the main control unit 301 executes a winning process (step S902). In the winning process, a big hit random number used in the big win lottery is acquired every time a winning of a game ball to the first starting port 105 and the second starting port 106 is detected. The details of the winning process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  After the winning process, the main control unit 301 executes a special symbol variation / stop process (step S903). In the special symbol change / stop process, a process for displaying / stopping the special symbol is performed. For example, in the special symbol change / stop process, a big hit lottery is performed, and a symbol to be stopped and displayed (a symbol representing a lottery result), a change time, etc. are determined. The processing contents of the special symbol variation / stop processing will be described later with reference to FIG.

  After the special symbol change / stop processing, the main control unit 301 determines whether the big hit game flag or the small hit game flag is ON (step S904). These flags are set based on the lottery result of the jackpot lottery. If the big hit game flag or the small hit game flag is OFF (step S904: No), the main control unit 301 returns to step S902 and repeats the above processing.

  If the big hit game flag or the small hit game flag is ON (step S904: Yes), the main control unit 301 executes a win game control process (step S905). In the win game control process, for example, the game state is set to a big win state (in the case of a big win), and a process of opening the big winning opening 109 according to the type of the winning big hit is performed. In the case of a small win, the big winning opening 109 is opened for two rounds.

  If the jackpot end condition is satisfied, the jackpot state is terminated, and a gaming state (for example, a promiscuous state) corresponding to the selected jackpot type (or jackpot) is set, and the process returns to step S902. Thereafter, the main control unit 301 repeats the processes in steps S902 to S905.

(Winning process)
Next, the contents of the winning process in step S902 will be described. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the contents of the winning process. In the winning process, the main control unit 301 first determines whether a detection signal has been acquired from the first start port SW321 or the second start port SW322 (step S1001). If the detection signal has not been acquired (step S1001: No), the main control unit 301 ends the winning process as it is.

  If the detection signal has been acquired (step S1001: Yes), the main control unit 301 determines whether or not the number U of special symbols is less than 4 (U <4) (step S1002). If the number U of special symbol hold is 4 or more (step S1002: No), the main control unit 301 ends the winning process as it is.

  If the holding number U is less than 4 (step S1002: Yes), the main control unit 301 adds “1” to the holding number U (U ← U + 1) (step S1003), and the jackpot random number and reach random number for the holding Is acquired (step S1004). Here, the jackpot random number is a random number used in the jackpot lottery. Further, the reach random number is a random number used for reach determination for determining whether or not to execute the reach effect in the case of being lost in the big hit lottery.

  When acquiring the jackpot random number and the reach random number in step S1004, the main control unit 301 stores the acquired random numbers in the RAM 313 (step S1005), and executes a pre-determination process (step S1006). Then, the processing result of the preliminary determination process (hereinafter referred to as “preliminary determination result”) is transmitted to the effect control unit 302 (step S1007), the winning process is terminated, and the process proceeds to step S903. The processing contents of the pre-determination process will be described later with reference to FIG.

(Preliminary judgment processing)
Next, the processing content of the advance determination processing in step S1006 will be described. FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the processing content of the prior determination processing. As shown in FIG. 11, in the prior determination process, the main control unit 301 first determines whether or not the game state being executed is a high probability state (step S1101).

  If the state is a high probability state (step S1101: Yes), the main control unit 301 selects a jackpot determination table for the high probability state (hereinafter referred to as “high probability determination table”) (step S1102). If it is not the high probability state (step S1101: No), the main control unit 301 determines whether there is a probability change jackpot that shifts the gaming state to the high probability state in the hold before the hold that is the current prior determination target. (Step S1103). For example, in step S1103, if the hold that is the object of prior determination at this time is U3, it is determined whether there is a hold that becomes a probable big hit in the hold U1 that is two steps before U3 and the hold U2 that is one step before U3. .

  If there is a hold that is a probable big hit (step S1103: Yes), the main control unit 301 proceeds to step S1102 and selects a high probability determination table. On the other hand, if there is no hold that is a probable big hit (step S1103: No), the main control unit 301 selects a jackpot determination table for the low probability state (hereinafter referred to as “low probability determination table”) (step S1104).

  Then, using the jackpot random number acquired at the time of winning a prize and the selected determination table (high probability determination table or low probability determination table), the main control unit 301 determines whether the hold to be pre-determined is a jackpot. (Preliminary determination) is performed (step S1105), the preliminary determination process is terminated, and the process proceeds to step S1007. In step S1105, if the value of the jackpot random number acquired at the time of winning a prize is a predetermined random number value determined as a jackpot in the determination table, the jackpot is determined to be a jackpot.

(Special symbol change / stop processing)
Next, the processing content of the special symbol variation / stop processing in step S903 will be described. FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the processing contents of the special symbol variation / stop processing. As shown in FIG. 12, in the special symbol variation / stop processing, the main control unit 301 first determines whether or not the number U of special symbols is 1 or more (U ≧ 1) (step S1201). If the number U of special symbol hold is less than 1 (U = 0) (step S1201: No), the main control unit 301 ends the special symbol variation / stop processing as it is.

  If the special symbol hold number U is 1 or more (step S1201: Yes), the main control unit 301 subtracts “1” from the hold number U (U ← U−1) (step S1202), It is determined whether the gaming state is a high probability state (step S1203). If it is a high probability state (step S1203: Yes), the main control unit 301 selects a high probability determination table (step S1204). If not in the high probability state (step S1203: No), the main control unit 301 selects a low probability determination table (step S1205).

  Then, using the jackpot random number acquired at the time of winning and the selected determination table (high probability determination table or low probability determination table), the main control unit 301 performs a jackpot lottery (step S1206). Although illustration is omitted, when a big hit is made in step S1206, the main control unit 301 also determines the type of the big hit (15 round probability variation / normal bonus, 2 round probability variation big hit).

  If the result of the determination is NO in step S1206, the main control unit 301 also determines whether or not to execute the reach effect at the time of the loss using the reach random number acquired at the time of winning and a predetermined reach determination table. To do. In the following description, a loss of execution of the reach effect is referred to as “reach loss”, and a failure of not performing the reach effect is referred to as “normal loss”.

  After the big hit lottery, the main control unit 301 determines whether to execute the reach effect (step S1207). In step S1207, it is determined in step S1206 that a reach effect is to be executed when the jackpot or reach is lost. When it is determined that the reach effect is to be executed (step S1207: Yes), the main control unit 301 uses a random number (hereinafter referred to as “variation pattern random number”) for selecting a change pattern (change time) at the time of the reach effect execution. Obtain (step S1208).

  Then, the main control unit 301 selects a reach variation pattern using this variation pattern random number and a variation pattern table (not shown) (step S1209). On the other hand, when it is determined in step S1207 that the reach effect is not executed (step S1207: No), the main control unit 301 selects a normal deviation variation pattern for normal deviation (step S1210).

  When the variation pattern is selected in step S1209 or step S1210, the main control unit 301 starts the variation display of the special symbol using the selected variation pattern (step S1211). Although illustration is omitted, at this time, the main control unit 301 outputs a change start command to the effect control unit 302 (effect control unit 302a).

  After starting the special symbol variation display, the main control unit 301 determines whether the lottery result of the jackpot lottery has been a jackpot (step S1212). If the jackpot is won (step S1212: Yes), the jackpot game flag is turned ON. Set (step S1213), the process proceeds to step S1216.

  If it is not a big hit (step S1212: No), the main control unit 301 determines whether the lottery result of the big hit lottery is a small win (step S1214). If the big hit is a small hit (step S1214: Yes), the small hit game The flag is set to ON (step S1215), and the process proceeds to step S1216. If it is not a small hit (step S1214: No), the process proceeds to step S1216 as it is.

  When the variation time indicated by the variation pattern is reached, the main control unit 301 stops displaying the special symbol (step S1216), ends the special symbol variation / stop process, and proceeds to step S904. In addition, although illustration is abbreviate | omitted, when stopping and displaying a special symbol, the main control part 301 outputs a variable stop command with respect to the effect control part 302 (effect control part 302a).

(Outline of effects performed by the gaming machine of this embodiment)
Next, an outline of effects performed by the effect control unit 302 of the gaming machine 100 of the present embodiment will be described. The effect control unit 302 starts the continuous effect based on the information transmitted from the main control unit 301. For example, when the main control unit 301 makes a preliminary determination for the hold in the preliminary determination process, the main control unit 301 transmits the preliminary determination result to the effect control unit 302 (see step S1007). The effect control unit 302 determines whether there is a big hit or a small hit in the hold based on the prior determination result, and starts a continuous effect if there is a big hit or a small hit in the hold.

  And the production | presentation control part 302 continues a continuous production until it becomes a big hit or a small hit, and will end a continuous production when it becomes a big hit or a small hit. For example, when it is a big hit, the effect control unit 302 outputs a predetermined sound from the speaker 354 in addition to the light emission of the light source in the operation handle 117 and ends the continuous effect. In addition, when it is a small hit, the effect control unit 302 ends the continuous effect as it is (without outputting sound from the speaker 354). In the following, processing contents of processing executed by the effect control unit 302 (the effect supervising unit 302a) for each change (every time a change start command is received) in order to execute the continuous effect will be described.

(Continuous production control process)
FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing the processing contents of the continuous effect control process. This continuous effect control process is performed by the CPU 341 of the effect control unit 302a executing a program stored in the ROM 342. As shown in FIG. 13, in the continuous effect control process, the effect supervision unit 302a first determines whether or not the continuous effect flag is ON (step S1301). Here, the continuation effect flag is a flag indicating whether or not to execute the continuation effect.

  If the continuation effect flag is ON (step S1301: Yes), the effect supervision unit 302a proceeds to step S1308 to be described later. If the continuation effect flag is OFF (step S1301: No), the effect supervision unit 302a refers to the storage area in which the pre-determination result is accumulated, and there is a win (big hit or small win) in the current hold. Is confirmed (step S1302).

  Next, the effect supervising unit 302a determines whether to execute the continuous effect (step S1303). For example, in step S1303, the effect supervising unit 302a determines that the continuous effect is to be executed if the storage area is hit, and determines that the continuous effect is not to be executed if the hit is not in the storage area. Further, a predetermined lottery regarding the execution of the continuous effect may be performed, and it may be determined that the continuous effect is executed when winning.

  When it determines with not continuing execution (step S1303: No), the production supervision part 302a complete | finishes a continuous production control process as it is. If it is determined in step S1303 that the continuous effect is to be executed (step S1303: Yes), the effect supervision unit 302a sets the continuous effect flag to ON (step S1304).

  Next, the production supervising unit 302a calculates the number of continuous productions to be continued (step S1305). Here, the number of times of continuation means the number of times that the continuation effect is continued (the number of times of special symbol fluctuation). For example, if the number of times of continuation is two, the production supervision unit 302a continues the continuation production after the continuation production is started until the special symbol is variably displayed twice. The calculation of the number of continuations is calculated according to the number of change destinations from which the pending hold is a hit. For example, if the winning hold is a hold of 2 change destinations, the production supervision unit 302a calculates the number of continuations as 2 times.

  When the number of continuations is calculated, the production supervision unit 302a starts outputting motor drive control data (step S1306), starts outputting lamp lighting control data (step S1307), and starts a continuous production. Then, it is determined whether the end time of the continuation effect has come (whether the special symbol has been changed by the number of continuations since the start of the continuation effect) (step S1308).

  If it is not the end time (step S1308: No), the production control unit 302a ends the continuous production control process as it is. When it is time to end the continuous production (step S1308: Yes), the production supervision unit 302a determines whether or not the winning for starting the continuous production was a big hit (step S1309). If it is a big hit (step S1309: Yes), the production control unit 302a starts outputting the audio control data (step S1310), sets the continuous production flag to OFF (step S1311), and ends the continuous production.

  On the other hand, if it is a small hit (step S1309: No), the production control unit 302a stops outputting the motor drive control data (step S1312), stops outputting the lamp lighting control data (step S1313), and step S1311. Migrate to

(Specific example of production performed by the gaming machine of the present embodiment)
Next, a specific example of effects performed by the gaming machine 100 of the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of effects produced by the gaming machine of the present embodiment. In FIG. 14 (a) (time t1), the gaming machine 100 is in a state where the holding number U = 3. The gaming machine 100 displays the same number of “★” images as the reserved number U on the image display unit 104, thereby guiding the reserved number U to the player (holding display 1404).

  Now, it is assumed that the holding number U = 3 is U1 for the first holding, U2 for the next holding of U1, U3 for the last holding, and U3 is a holding that has been determined to be a big hit by prior determination. In FIG. 14 (a), the change display for the previous hold is ended, and the effect symbols 1401 to 1403 are stopped.

  When it becomes time t2 after time t1, the gaming machine 100 starts to display the variation of the effect symbols 1401 to 1403 with respect to the hold U1 (FIG. 14 (B)). At the same time, the gaming machine 100 starts a continuation effect. For this reason, the LEDs 412 and 413 in the operation handle 117 emit light.

  When it becomes time t3 after time t2, the gaming machine 100 starts changing display of the effect symbols 1401 to 1403 with respect to the hold U2 (FIG. 14C). The gaming machine 100 continues the continuation effect. For this reason, the LEDs 412 and 413 in the operation handle 117 continue to emit light.

  Subsequently, the gaming machine 100 starts to display the variation of the effect symbols 1401 to 1403 for the hold U3. Then, at a time t4 when a predetermined fluctuation time (variation time based on the selected fluctuation pattern) has elapsed, the gaming machine 100 produces a combination with a jackpot (“1 · 1 · 1” in the illustrated example). The symbols 1401 to 1403 are stopped and displayed (FIG. 14D).

  After time t4, the LEDs 412 and 413 in the operation handle 117 continue to emit light until a predetermined jackpot effect is started. Note that although not shown in the figure, at the start of or during the fluctuation, which is a big hit, a predetermined sound is output from the speaker 354 (for example, a sound effect such as “Cuin”).

  Note that, for example, if U3 is determined to be a small hit by prior determination, at time t4, the gaming machine 100 has the effect symbols 1401-1403 in a combination (eg, “1 · 2 · 1”) indicating a loss. To stop display. Then, the continuation effect ends. For this reason, the LEDs 412 and 413 in the operation handle 117 stop emitting light.

  Although illustration is omitted, when the gaming machine 100 executes the continuation effect, the lamps other than the light emitting unit 204 (the LEDs 412 and 413 thereof) on the game board 101 such as the lamp of the effect light unit 116 and the board lamp 364 are turned on. It may be turned off. Thereby, the continuation effect can be further emphasized, and the effect of the continuation effect can be increased.

  FIG. 15 is a timing chart of a specific example of the effects performed by the gaming machine of the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 15, at the time t1 shown in FIG. 14, the effect symbols 1401 to 1403 are stopped and the light emitting unit 204 (LEDs 412 and 413 in the operation handle 117) is turned off.

  At time t2 after time t1, the gaming machine 100 performs special symbol variation / stop processing for the hold U1, and also performs continuous performance control processing, sets the continuous performance flag to ON, and displays the variation of the performance symbols 1401-1403. To start. Furthermore, the gaming machine 100 starts the light emission of the light emitting unit 204. After that, at time t21 when a predetermined period has elapsed from time t2, the gaming machine 100 stops and displays the effect symbols 1401 to 1403 in a combination indicating a loss.

  The gaming machine 100 continues to emit light from the light emitting unit 204 during a predetermined interval period from time t21 to time t3. And when it becomes the time t3 when the interval period passed, the gaming machine 100 performs the special symbol variation / stop processing for the hold U2, and also performs the continuous rendering control processing, and starts the variation display of the rendering symbols 1401-1403. Thereafter, at a time t31 when a predetermined period has elapsed from the time t3, the gaming machine 100 stops and displays the effect symbols 1401 to 1403 in a combination indicating a loss.

  The gaming machine 100 continues to emit light from the light emitting unit 204 during a predetermined interval period from time t31 to time t32. And when it becomes the time t32 when the interval period passed, the gaming machine 100 performs the special symbol variation / stop processing for the hold U3 and also performs the continuous rendering control processing to start the variation display of the rendering symbols 1401 to 1403. Although illustration is omitted, a predetermined sound may be output from the speaker 354 at the start of the change at the time t32 or during the change. Thereafter, at time t4 when a predetermined period has elapsed from time t32, the gaming machine 100 stops and displays the effect symbols 1401 to 1403 in a combination indicating a big hit. Then, the gaming machine 100 sets the continuation effect flag to OFF and shifts to the big hit effect.

  In this way, the gaming machine 100 is configured to change each time the effect symbol is changed a plurality of times from the change in which the continuation effect flag is set to ON (that is, until the special symbol is changed a plurality of times). During the interval period between fluctuations, the light emitting unit 204 continues to emit light and performs a continuous effect. In the above embodiment, the continuous effect flag is set to ON when there is a hit (big hit or small win) in the storage area, but the present invention is not limited to this. Even if there is no hit in the storage area (even if it is out of normal and out of reach), the continuation effect flag may be set to ON. The continuation effect flag can be set to ON based on an arbitrary condition determined by the manufacturer of the gaming machine 100, for example.

  As described above, the gaming machine 100 according to the present embodiment is configured to execute a continuous effect while the special symbol fluctuates a plurality of times. When the continuous effect is executed, the gaming machine 100 causes the LEDs 412 and 413 in the operation handle 117 to emit light. Thereby, the gaming machine 100 can maintain the player's expectation over a plurality of special symbol variations.

  In addition, the gaming machine 100 according to the present embodiment is configured to perform a pre-determination and execute a continuous effect if there is a big hit or a small hit in the hold. Thus, when the gaming machine 100 executes the continuation effect, the gaming machine 100 gives the player a sense of expectation that “the jackpot may be close”, and maintains the sense of expectation until the hold on which the continuation effect is started is consumed. be able to.

  As described above, according to the gaming machine according to the present invention, since the continuous effect of causing the light source in the operation handle to emit light is executed across a plurality of special symbol variations, the continuous effect is being executed. The player's expectation can be maintained (until the special symbol fluctuates multiple times), and the gameability of the gaming machine can be improved.

100 gaming machines (game machines)
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 101 Game board 104 Image display part 105 1st start opening 106 2nd start opening 109 Special winning opening 112 Special symbol display part 117 Operation handle 201 Lottery part (lottery means)
202 Special symbol control unit (Special symbol control means)
203 Production execution unit (production execution means)
204 Light-emitting unit 205 Pre-determination unit (pre-determination means)
206 Hold determination unit (hold determination means)
301 Main Control Unit 302 Effect Control Unit 302a Effect Control Unit 302b Image / Audio Control Unit 302c Lamp Control Unit 303 Prize Ball Control Unit

Claims (1)

An acquisition means for acquiring a random number used in the big win lottery every time a game ball launched into a game area on the game board wins a first start opening and a second start opening different from the first start opening;
When a random number is acquired by the acquisition unit, a pre-determination unit that determines in advance whether or not the jackpot lottery using the random number will be a jackpot;
Lottery means for performing the jackpot lottery sequentially in accordance with a predetermined order based on the random number obtained by the obtaining means;
Each time the jackpot lottery is performed by the lottery means, the special symbol control means for changing the special symbol and then stopping to show the lottery result of the jackpot lottery,
Production execution means capable of executing a predetermined production;
With
The production execution means
A continuation effect that can be continued across multiple variations of the special symbol and a jackpot notification effect that informs that it will be a jackpot, can be executed,
When it is determined that the jackpot is determined by the pre-determination means, the continuation over a plurality of variations until the variation of the special symbol by the jackpot lottery using the jackpot random number (hereinafter referred to as “jackpot variation”) When the effect can be executed and the continuation effect is executed, the jackpot notification effect may be executed in the jackpot variation,
If it is determined by the prior judging means that the jackpot will not be a big hit, the change of the special symbol (hereinafter referred to as “non-big hit fluctuation”) due to the jackpot lottery using a random number that does not win the jackpot will be crossed multiple times The continuation effect can be executed, and when the continuation effect is executed, the continuation effect is terminated in the non-big hit variation, and the jackpot notification effect is not executed in the non-big hit variation. Gaming machine.

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