JP2017035619A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To make it possible to preferably select a presentation by reflecting an intention of a player.SOLUTION: When one presentation is being performed among a plurality of kinds of presentations, if a count value of a changeover presentation counter for counting a performance number of times of an amid variation changeover presentation is "0", the amid variation changeover presentation is determined to be performed at a first ratio such as a ratio of 10/100 (=1/10). On the other hand, when one presentation is being performed, if the amid variation changeover presentation is performed once, and thereby after a count value of the changeover presentation counter becomes "1", the amid variation changeover presentation is determined to be performed at a second ratio such as a ratio of 2/100 (=1/50) that is lower than when the count value was "0".SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 8

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine, and more particularly to a gaming machine that performs variable display and can be controlled to an advantageous state advantageous to a player.

  As a gaming machine, when a game medium such as a game ball is launched into a game area by a launching device, and the game medium wins a prize area such as a prize opening provided in the game area and a start condition is satisfied, a plurality of types of identification are made. There is a pachinko gaming machine in which information (hereinafter referred to as a display symbol) is variably displayed on a variable display device, and the game interest is enhanced by a so-called variable display game that determines whether or not to give a predetermined game value based on the display result. . In such a pachinko gaming machine, a specific game state (big hit game state) advantageous to the player is obtained when the stop symbol mode when the variable display of the display symbol in the variable display game is completely stopped becomes the specific display mode. . For example, a pachinko gaming machine that has been in a big hit gaming state has a special electric player called a big prize opening or an attacking state in an open state, and a gaming state in which a predetermined game value is given to the player by making the winning of a game ball extremely easy. Provide continuously for a certain period of time.

  In such a gaming machine, it is proposed that when a specific reach change command is received, the effect mode is switched to another mode and the reach effect is executed according to the effect mode corresponding to the effect mode. (For example, Patent Document 1).

JP 2005-152336 A

  With the technique described in Patent Literature 1, the player cannot select whether to end or continue the current presentation mode. Therefore, it is conceivable that when the predetermined effect is executed, the effect mode can be ended and continued by the player's selection. In this case, if an effect causing the player to select with a certain probability is executed, the player who wants to continue the current effect mode is given an impression that the unnecessary effect is frequently executed, and the interest of the game is increased. There was a risk of lowering.

  This invention is made in view of the said actual condition, and it aims at provision of the gaming machine which can select a production | presentation suitably reflecting a player's intention.

(1) In order to achieve the above object, the gaming machine according to the present invention performs variable display and can be controlled in an advantageous state advantageous to the player (for example, a big hit gaming state) (for example, pachinko gaming machine 1) ) And a plurality of variable displays in one effect mode (for example, an effect of displaying the character CH1) among a plurality of types of effect modes (for example, an effect of displaying any one of the characters CH1 to CH3). When an effect executing means capable of executing an effect (for example, the effect control CPU 120 for executing the effect processing during variable display in step S172) is provided, and the effect executing means is executing the effect in the first effect mode. In addition, a selection effect (for example, a standby switching effect, a changing effect during change, etc.) that allows the player to select whether or not to end the execution of the effect according to the first effect mode. Selection effect execution means (for example, the variable display start waiting process in step S170, the variable display start setting process in step S171, the effect control CPU 120 for executing the changing effect display process in step S253, etc.) Is an effect capable of selecting whether to continue the first effect mode or to switch to another effect mode different from the first effect mode, and the selection effect execution means executes the effect according to the first effect mode. When the selected effect is executed a predetermined number of times (for example, once), the execution ratio of the selected effect is a first rate (for example, a ratio of 1/10 (= 10/100), for example). In addition, after the selection effect is executed a predetermined number of times, a second rate (for example, 1/50 (= 2/100) where the execution rate of the selection effect is lower than the first rate. Which is a ratio of, etc.).
According to such a configuration, after the selection effect is executed a predetermined number of times, the selection effect execution rate is the second rate lower than the first rate, which is preferable to prevent the selection effect from being bothered. It is possible to select an effect that reflects the player's intention and to improve the interest of the game.

(2) In the gaming machine of the above (1), when the player selects to switch to the other effect mode based on the selected effect, the effect executing means performs the effect according to the first effect mode. You may comprise so that execution may be complete | finished and the effect by said other effect aspect may be performed (for example, the part which performs the process of step S209, S307, etc.).
In such a configuration, it is possible to select various effects reflecting the player's intention by switching to the effects according to other effects when executing the effects according to one effect. The interest of the game can be improved.

(3) In the gaming machine of the above (1) or (2), when the player selects to switch to the other effect mode based on the selection effect, Regardless of the ratio of executing the selection effect before switching to the effect mode, the selection effect is executed at the first rate until the selection effect is executed a predetermined number of times after switching to the other effect mode ( For example, after executing the processes of steps S214 and S309, a part for executing the process of step S232 may be configured.
In such a configuration, after switching to another effect mode, the selection effect is executed at the first ratio, so that the effect is appropriately selected to reflect the player's intention to switch the effect. Can do.

(4) In any one of the above gaming machines (1) to (3), the selection effect execution means executes the selection effect at the second ratio when the effect according to the first effect mode is being executed. After the predetermined number of times (for example, once) is executed, the selection effect may be executed at a third rate (for example, a rate of 1/100) that is lower than the second rate.
In such a configuration, it is possible to appropriately select an effect reflecting the player's intention to continue the effect in the current effect mode.

(5) In any one of the above gaming machines (1) to (4), after the execution of the effect by the first effect mode is completed by the player's selection based on the selected effect, the variable display of the identification information is performed. Until a specific number of times (for example, 50 times) is executed, a post-end restriction unit that restricts execution of the selected effect (for example, an effect control CPU 120 that executes the process of step S232 based on the processes of steps S312 and S264) May be provided.
In such a configuration, by providing a restriction so that the selection effect is not executed immediately after the execution of the effect in one effect mode is completed, the inconvenience of the selection effect is prevented, and the player's intention is preferably reflected. It is possible to select an effect that has been performed, and to improve the interest of the game.

(6) In any one of the above gaming machines (1) to (5), the selection effect execution means executes variable display of identification information for a predetermined period (for example, a period until a demonstration display start waiting time elapses). After the absence, the selection effect is configured to be executed at the first ratio (for example, a part that executes the process of step S232 after executing the process of step S214 based on the determination of Yes in step S207). May be.
In such a configuration, it is possible to prevent the selection effect from being executed for a long period of time when the player changes, and to appropriately select the effect reflecting the player's intention.

(7) In any one of the above-described (1) to (6), when the variable display of the identification information is being executed, a notice effect that suggests the possibility of being controlled to the specific gaming state is executed Notice effect execution means for performing (for example, the effect control CPU 120 for executing the process of step S255), and when the notice effect is being executed, restricting means during notice (for example, step S232) for limiting the execution of the selected effect. The effect control CPU 120 for determining the effect during variable display to “notice effect” may be provided.
In such a configuration, when the notice effect is being executed, a restriction is provided on the execution of the selection effect, so that the player's attention to the notice effect is prevented from being hindered, and the effect is suitably selected. Can do.

It is a front view of the pachinko gaming machine in this embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the various control boards etc. which were mounted in the pachinko game machine. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a game control process process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of a fluctuation pattern. It is a flowchart which shows an example of production control process processing. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a variable display start waiting process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a variable display start setting process. It is a figure which shows the example of determination of the effect during variable display. It is a figure which shows the structural example of an effect control pattern table. It is a figure which shows the structural example etc. of an effect control pattern. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the production process during variable display. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the change effect process during a change. It is a figure which shows the execution example of the switch effect during waiting | standby. It is a figure which shows the example of execution of the change effect in switching.

  Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine according to the present embodiment and shows an arrangement layout of main members. The pachinko gaming machine (gaming machine) 1 is roughly composed of a gaming board (gauge board) 2 constituting a gaming board surface and a gaming machine frame (base frame) 3 for supporting and fixing the gaming board 2. The game board 2 is formed with a substantially circular game area surrounded by guide rails. In this game area, a game ball as a game medium is launched from a predetermined hitting ball launching device and driven.

  A first special symbol display device 4A and a second special symbol display device 4B are provided at predetermined positions of the game board 2 (in the example shown in FIG. 1, to the right of the game area 2). Each of the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B is composed of, for example, 7-segment or dot matrix LEDs (light emitting diodes) and the like. Special symbols (also referred to as “special graphics”), which are a plurality of types of identification information (special identification information) that can be displayed, are variably displayed (variable display). For example, each of the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B variably displays a plurality of types of special symbols composed of numbers indicating "0" to "9", symbols indicating "-", and the like. To do.

  The special symbols displayed on the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B are limited to those composed of numbers indicating "0" to "9", symbols indicating "-", and the like. However, for example, a plurality of types of lighting patterns in which the combination of the LED to be turned on and the LED to be turned off in the 7-segment LED may be set in advance as a plurality of types of special symbols. Hereinafter, the special symbol variably displayed on the first special symbol display device 4A is also referred to as "first special symbol", and the special symbol variably displayed on the second special symbol display device 4B is also referred to as "second special symbol". .

  An image display device 5 is provided near the center of the game area on the game board 2. The image display device 5 is composed of, for example, an LCD (liquid crystal display device) or the like, and forms a display area for displaying various effect images. In the display area of the image display device 5, the first special symbol variable display by the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol variable display by the second special symbol display device 4B in the special symbol game respectively correspond to the variable display. For example, in a decorative symbol display area serving as a plurality of variable display units such as three, decorative symbols that are a plurality of types of identification information (decorative identification information) that can be identified are variably displayed. This variable display of decorative designs is also included in the variable display game.

  As an example, “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R are arranged in the display area of the image display device 5. And in response to the start of one of the changes in the first special symbol in the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol in the second special symbol display device 4B in the special symbol game, In the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R, the variation of decorative symbols (for example, vertical scroll display) is started. Thereafter, when the fixed special symbol is stopped and displayed as a variable display result in the special symbol game, the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R in the image display device 5 are displayed. Then, the finalized decorative symbol (final stop symbol) that is the variable display result of the decorative symbol is stopped and displayed.

  As described above, in the display area of the image display device 5, a special game using the first special graphic in the first special symbol display device 4A or a special graphic using the second special graphic in the second special symbol display device 4B is used. In synchronism with the figure game, variable display of a plurality of types of decorative symbols that can be identified is performed, and a definite decorative symbol that is a variable display result is derived and displayed (or simply referred to as “derivation”). In addition, for example, deriving and displaying various display symbols such as a special symbol and a decorative symbol means that identification information such as a decorative symbol is stopped and displayed (also referred to as a complete stop display or a final stop display) and the variable display is ended. . On the other hand, during the variable display from the start of the variable display of the decorative pattern until the fixed decorative pattern that is the variable display result is derived and displayed, the variation speed of the decorative pattern becomes “0”, The symbol may be displayed in a stationary state, for example, in a display state that causes slight shaking or expansion / contraction. Such a display state is also called a temporary stop display, and although the display result in the variable display is not displayed deterministically, the player can recognize that the variation of the decorative pattern due to the scroll display or the update display is not progressing. It becomes. The temporary stop display may include displaying the decorative symbols completely stopped for a time shorter than a predetermined time (for example, 1 second) without causing slight shaking or expansion / contraction.

  The decorative symbols variably displayed in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R include, for example, eight types of symbols (alphanumeric characters “1” to “8” or Chinese characters). It may be any combination of numbers, English letters, eight character images related to a predetermined motif, a combination of numbers, letters, symbols, and character images. Character images may be, for example, people, animals, other objects, or , A decorative image showing a symbol such as a character or other arbitrary figure). A corresponding symbol number is assigned to each of the decorative symbols. For example, symbol numbers “1” to “8” are assigned to alphanumeric characters indicating “1” to “8”, respectively. Note that the number of decorative symbols is not limited to eight, and may be any number as long as an appropriate number of combinations such as a jackpot combination or a combination that is lost can be configured (for example, seven types or nine types).

  After the decorative symbol variable display is started, the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R are displayed until the fixed decorative symbol that is the variable display result is derived and displayed. In FIG. 5, for example, scroll display is performed such that the symbol number sequentially flows from the top to the bottom from the smallest to the largest, and when the decorative symbol having the largest symbol number (for example, “8”) is displayed, The decorative symbol having the smallest symbol number (for example, “1”) is displayed. Alternatively, in at least one of the decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R (for example, the “left” decorative symbol display area 5L), the symbols are scrolled from the largest symbol number to the smallest symbol symbol. When the decorative design having the smallest number is displayed, the decorative design having the largest design number may be displayed.

  In the display area of the image display device 5, a start winning storage display area 5H is arranged. In the start winning memory display area 5H, a hold memory display for displaying the variable display hold number corresponding to the special figure game (special figure hold memory number) is specified. Here, the variable display suspension corresponding to the special game is that the game ball passes through the first start winning opening formed by the normal winning ball apparatus 6A and the second starting winning opening formed by the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B. Generated based on the start winning by entering (entering). That is, the start condition (also referred to as “execution condition”) for executing a variable display game such as a special figure game or a variable display of decorative symbols has been established, but a variable display game based on the previously established start condition is being executed. When the start condition that allows the start of the variable display game is not satisfied due to the fact that the pachinko gaming machine 1 is controlled to the big hit gaming state, the variable display corresponding to the established start condition is suspended. Done.

  In the example shown in FIG. 1, together with the start winning memory display area 5H, the first hold for displaying the special figure hold memory number in an identifiable manner on the upper part of the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B. A display 25A and a second hold display 25B are provided. The first hold indicator 25A displays the first special figure hold memory number so that it can be specified. The second hold indicator 25B displays the second special figure hold memory number so that it can be specified. The number of first special figure hold memory is the number of memory in which the execution of the special figure game using the first special figure is suspended. The second special figure hold memory number is the number of memories in which the execution of the special figure game using the second special figure is suspended. The variable display hold memory number obtained by adding the first special figure hold memory number and the second special figure hold memory number is also referred to as a total hold memory number. When simply referring to the “number of special figure hold memory”, it usually refers to a concept including any of the first special figure hold memory number, the second special figure hold memory number, and the total hold memory number. It may refer to a concept that includes the first special figure reserved memory number and the second special figure reserved memory number but excludes the total reserved memory number).

  Below the image display device 5, an ordinary winning ball device 6A and an ordinary variable winning ball device 6B are provided. The normal winning ball device 6A forms a first starting winning opening as a starting area (first starting area) that is always kept in a constant open state by a predetermined ball receiving member, for example. The normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B has an electric motor having a pair of movable wing pieces that are changed into a normal open state as a vertical position and an expanded open state as a tilt position by a solenoid 81 for a normal electric accessory shown in FIG. A tulip-shaped accessory (ordinary electric accessory) is provided, and a start area (second start area) and a second start winning opening are formed.

  As an example, in the normally variable winning ball apparatus 6B, the movable wing piece is in the vertical position when the solenoid 81 for the normal electric accessory is in the OFF state, so that the game ball passes (enters) the second starting winning opening. It is difficult to open normally. On the other hand, in the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B, the game ball passes through the second start winning opening by the tilt control in which the movable blade piece is tilted when the solenoid 81 for the normal electric accessory is in the ON state ( It will be in an expanded open state that is easy to enter. In the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B, although the game ball can enter the second start winning opening even in the normal open state, there is a possibility that the game ball may enter more than in the expanded open state. You may comprise so that it may become low. Alternatively, the normally variable winning ball apparatus 6B may be configured such that the game ball does not enter the second starting winning opening in the normally open state, for example, by closing the second starting winning opening. As described above, the second start winning opening as the second start area has the expanded open state as the first variable state in which the game ball easily passes (enters), and the game ball hardly passes (enters) or passes (enters). ) It changes to the normally open state as the second variable state that cannot.

  A game ball that has passed (entered) the first start winning opening formed in the normal winning ball apparatus 6A is detected by, for example, a first start opening switch 22A shown in FIG. The game ball that has passed (entered) the second start winning opening formed in the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B is detected by, for example, the second start opening switch 22B shown in FIG. Based on the detection of the game ball by the first start port switch 22A, a predetermined number (for example, three) of game balls are paid out as prize balls, and the first special figure holding memory number is set to a predetermined upper limit value (for example, “ 4 ") If the following, the first start condition is satisfied. Based on the detection of the game ball by the second start port 22B, a predetermined number (for example, three) of game balls are paid out as prize balls, and the second special figure holding memory number is set to a predetermined upper limit value (for example, “ 4 ") If the following, the second start condition is satisfied. The number of prize balls to be paid out based on the detection of the game ball by the first start port switch 22A and the number of prize balls to be paid out based on the detection of the game ball by the second start port switch 22B. May be the same number or different numbers.

  A special variable winning ball device 7 is provided below the normal winning ball device 6A and the normal variable winning ball device 6B. The special variable winning ball apparatus 7 includes a special winning opening door that is opened and closed by a solenoid 82 for the special winning opening door shown in FIG. 2, and the specific region that changes between an open state and a closed state by the special winning opening door. As a big prize opening.

  As an example, in the special variable winning ball apparatus 7, when the solenoid 82 for the special prize opening door is in the OFF state, the special prize opening door closes the big winning prize opening, and the game ball passes (enters) the big winning prize opening. Make it impossible. On the other hand, in the special variable winning ball apparatus 7, when the solenoid 82 for the big prize opening door is in the ON state, the big winning opening door opens the big winning opening and the game ball passes through the big winning opening (entrance). ) Make it easier. In this way, the special winning opening as a specific area changes into an open state in which a game ball easily passes (enters) and is advantageous to the player, and a closed state in which the game ball cannot pass (enters) and is disadvantageous to the player To do. Instead of the closed state where the game ball cannot pass (enter) through the big prize opening, or in addition to the closed state, a partially opened state where the game ball hardly passes (enters) through the big prize port may be provided.

  The game ball that has passed (entered) through the big prize opening is detected by, for example, the count switch 23 shown in FIG. Based on the detection of game balls by the count switch 23, a predetermined number (for example, 15) of game balls are paid out as prize balls. In this way, when the game ball passes (enters) through the large winning opening opened in the special variable winning ball apparatus 7, the gaming ball passes through other winning openings such as the first starting winning opening and the second starting winning opening, for example. More prize balls are paid out than when passing (entering). Therefore, if the special prize winning ball device 7 is in the open state, the game ball can enter the special prize winning opening, which is a first state advantageous to the player. On the other hand, when the special prize winning device 7 is closed in the special variable prize winning ball device 7, it becomes impossible or difficult for the player to get a prize ball by passing (entering) the gaming ball into the special prize winning port. This is a disadvantageous second state.

  A normal symbol display 20 is provided at a predetermined position of the game board 2 (on the left side of the game area in the example shown in FIG. 1). As an example, the normal symbol display 20 is composed of 7 segments, dot matrix LEDs, and the like, like the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B, and a plurality of types of identification information different from the special symbols. Is displayed (variably displayed) in a variable manner. Such variable display of normal symbols is called a general game (also referred to as “normal game”).

  Above the normal symbol display 20, a universal figure holding display 25 </ b> C is provided. The general-purpose hold indicator 25C includes, for example, four LEDs, and displays the general-purpose hold storage number as the number of effective passing balls that have passed through the passing gate 41.

  In addition to the above-described configuration, the surface of the game board 2 is provided with a windmill for changing the flow direction and speed of the game ball and a number of obstacle nails. In addition, as a winning opening different from the first starting winning opening, the second starting winning opening, and the large winning opening, for example, a single or plural general winning openings that are always kept in a certain open state by a predetermined ball receiving member are provided. May be. In this case, a predetermined number (for example, 10) of game balls may be paid out as a prize ball based on the fact that a game ball that has entered one of the general prize openings is detected by a predetermined general prize ball switch. In the lowermost part of the game area, there is provided an out port through which game balls that have not entered any winning port are taken.

  Speakers 8L and 8R for reproducing and outputting sound effects and the like are provided at the left and right upper positions of the gaming machine frame 3, and a game effect lamp 9 is provided at the periphery of the game area. A decorative LED may be arranged around each structure (for example, the normal winning ball device 6A, the normal variable winning ball device 6B, the special variable winning ball device 7, etc.) in the game area of the pachinko gaming machine 1. At the lower right position of the gaming machine frame 3, there is provided a hitting operation handle (operation knob) operated by a player or the like to launch a game ball as a game medium toward the game area. For example, the hitting operation handle adjusts the resilience of the game ball according to the operation amount (rotation amount) by the player or the like. The hitting operation handle only needs to be provided with a single shot switch or a touch ring (touch sensor) for stopping the driving of a shooting motor included in the hitting ball shooting device.

  At a predetermined position of the gaming machine frame 3 below the gaming area, a game ball paid out as a prize ball or a game ball lent out by a predetermined ball lending machine is held (stored) so as to be supplied to a ball hitting device. )) Is provided. Below the gaming machine frame 3, there is provided a lower plate that holds (stores) surplus balls overflowing from the upper plate so as to be discharged to the outside of the pachinko gaming machine 1.

  For example, a stick controller 31A that can be held and tilted by the player is attached to a member that forms the lower plate, for example, at a predetermined position on the front side of the upper surface of the lower plate main body (for example, a central portion of the lower plate). Yes. The stick controller 31A includes an operation stick that the player holds, and a trigger button is provided at a predetermined position of the operation stick (for example, a position where the index finger of the operator is hooked when the player holds the operation stick). Yes. The trigger button can be operated in a predetermined direction by performing a push-pull operation with a predetermined operation finger (for example, an index finger) in a state where the player holds the operation stick of the stick controller 31A with an operation hand (for example, the left hand). What is necessary is just to be comprised. A trigger sensor that detects a predetermined instruction operation such as a push / pull operation on the trigger button may be incorporated in the operation rod.

  A tilt direction sensor unit for detecting a tilting operation with respect to the operating rod may be provided inside the main body of the lower plate below the stick controller 31A. For example, the tilt direction sensor unit includes two transmissive photosensors (parallel sensors) arranged in parallel to the board surface of the game board 2 on the left side of the center position of the operation pole when viewed from the player side facing the pachinko gaming machine 1. And a pair of transmissive photosensors (vertical sensor pairs) arranged perpendicularly to the surface of the game board 2 on the right side of the center position of the operation rod when viewed from the player side. What is necessary is just to be comprised including the photo sensor.

  The member that forms the upper plate includes, for example, a push button 31B that allows a player to perform a predetermined instruction operation by a pressing operation or the like at a predetermined position on the front side of the upper surface of the upper plate body (for example, above the stick controller 31A). Is provided. The push button 31B only needs to be configured to be able to detect a predetermined instruction operation such as a pressing operation from a player mechanically, electrically, or electromagnetically. A push sensor for detecting the player's operation act on the push button 31B may be provided inside the main body of the upper plate at the installation position of the push button 31B.

  Various control boards such as a main board 11, an effect control board 12, an audio control board 13, and a lamp control board 14 as shown in FIG. 2 are mounted on the pachinko gaming machine 1. The pachinko gaming machine 1 is also equipped with a relay board 15 for relaying various control signals transmitted between the main board 11 and the effect control board 12. In addition, various boards such as a payout control board, an information terminal board, a launch control board, an interface board, and a touch sensor board are arranged on the back of the game board or the like in the pachinko gaming machine 1.

  The main board 11 is a main-side control board on which various circuits for controlling the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1 are mounted. The main board 11 is mainly addressed to a sub-side control board composed of a random number setting function used in a special game, a function of inputting a signal from a switch or the like disposed at a predetermined position, and an effect control board 12. A function of outputting and transmitting a control command as an example of command information as a control signal, a function of outputting various information to a hall management computer, and the like are provided. In addition, the main board 11 performs on / off control of each LED (for example, segment LED) constituting the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B, and thereby the first special diagram and the second special diagram. Variable display of a predetermined display pattern such as controlling the variable display of the normal symbol display 20 or controlling the variable symbol display of the normal symbol display 20 by controlling the lighting / extinction / coloring control of the normal symbol display 20. It also has a function to control.

  On the main board 11, for example, a game control microcomputer 100, a switch circuit 110, a solenoid circuit 111, and the like are mounted. The switch circuit 110 takes in detection signals from various switches for detecting game balls and transmits them to the game control microcomputer 100. The solenoid circuit 111 transmits a solenoid drive signal from the game control microcomputer 100 to the solenoid 81 for the ordinary electric accessory and the solenoid 82 for the special prize opening door.

  The effect control board 12 is a sub-side control board independent of the main board 11, receives the control signal transmitted from the main board 11 via the relay board 15, and receives the image display device 5, the speakers 8L, 8R. Various circuits for controlling the production operation by the electrical parts for production such as the game effect lamp 9 and the decoration LED are mounted. That is, the effect control board 12 performs all or part of the display operation in the image display device 5, all or part of the sound output operation from the speakers 8L and 8R, and all or one of the on / off operations in the game effect lamp 9 and the decoration LED. A function of determining the control content for causing the electrical component for production to execute a predetermined production operation, such as a section.

  The sound control board 13 is a control board for sound output control provided separately from the effect control board 12, and outputs sound from the speakers 8L and 8R based on commands and control data from the effect control board 12. For example, a processing circuit for executing audio signal processing is mounted. The lamp control board 14 is a control board for lamp output control that is provided separately from the effect control board 12, and based on commands and control data from the effect control board 12, the game effect lamp 9, LED for decoration, etc. A lamp driver circuit that performs on / off driving is mounted.

  As shown in FIG. 2, wiring for transmitting detection signals from the gate switch 21, the first start port switch 22 </ b> A, the second start port switch 22 </ b> B, and the count switch 23 is connected to the main board 11. The gate switch 21, the first start port switch 22A, the second start port switch 22B, and the count switch 23 have an arbitrary configuration that can detect a game ball as a game medium, such as a sensor. What is necessary is just to have. In addition, the main board 11 includes a first special symbol display device 4A, a second special symbol display device 4B, a normal symbol display device 20, a first hold display device 25A, a second hold display device 25B, and a general drawing hold display device 25C. Wiring for transmitting a command signal for performing display control such as is connected.

  A control signal transmitted from the main board 11 toward the effect control board 12 is relayed by the relay board 15. The control command transmitted from the main board 11 to the effect control board 12 via the relay board 15 is, for example, an effect control command transmitted and received as an electric signal. The effect control command includes, for example, a display control command used for controlling an image display operation in the image display device 5, a voice control command used for controlling sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R, and a game effect lamp 9. And a lamp control command used for controlling the lighting operation of the decoration LED and the like.

  The game control microcomputer 100 mounted on the main board 11 is, for example, a one-chip microcomputer, and includes a ROM (Read Only Memory) 101 for storing a game control program, fixed data, and the like, and a game control work. A RAM (Random Access Memory) 102 that provides an area, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 103 that executes a control program by executing a game control program, and updates numeric data indicating random values independently of the CPU 103 A random number circuit 104 to perform and an I / O (Input / Output port) 105 are provided.

  As an example, in the game control microcomputer 100, a process for controlling the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1 is executed by the CPU 103 executing a program read from the ROM 101. At this time, the CPU 103 reads fixed data from the ROM 101, the CPU 103 writes various fluctuation data to the RAM 102 and temporarily stores the fluctuation data, and the CPU 103 temporarily stores the various fluctuation data. The CPU 103 receives the input of various signals from outside the game control microcomputer 100 via the I / O 105, and the CPU 103 goes outside the game control microcomputer 100 via the I / O 105. A transmission operation for outputting various signals is also performed.

  Note that the one-chip microcomputer constituting the game control microcomputer 100 only needs to incorporate the RAM 102 in addition to the CPU 103, and the ROM 101, the random number circuit 104, the I / O 105, and the like may be externally attached.

  In the game control microcomputer 100, the CPU 103 executes control in accordance with the program stored in the ROM 101. Therefore, the game control microcomputer 100 (or CPU 103) executes (or performs processing) hereinafter. Specifically, the CPU 103 executes control according to a program. The same applies to microcomputers mounted on substrates other than the main substrate 11.

  In the game control microcomputer 100, for example, the random number circuit 104 or the like counts the numerical data indicating various random values used for controlling the progress of the game in an updatable manner. The random number used for controlling the progress of the game is also called a game random number. The game random number may be updated by hardware such as the random number circuit 104 or may be updated by software when the CPU 103 of the game control microcomputer 100 executes a predetermined computer program. May be. For example, numerical data indicating a predetermined random number value is stored in a random counter provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 102 in the game control microcomputer 100 or a random counter provided in an internal register different from the RAM 102. The random number value may be updated by updating the stored value periodically or irregularly.

  In this embodiment, on the side of the main board 11, a random number value MR1 for determining a special figure display result, a random value MR2 for determining a big hit type, a random value MR3 for determining a variation pattern, and a random number for determining a general map display result. Numerical data indicating each of the numerical values MR4 is controlled to be countable (updatable). In addition, in order to improve a game effect, random numbers other than these may be used.

  The random number value MR1 for determining the special figure display result is a random number value used for determining whether or not to control the big hit gaming state with the variable display result of the special symbol or the like in the special figure game as “big hit”. The random value MR2 for determining the big hit type is a random value used for determining the big hit type as one of a plurality of types when the variable display result is “big hit”. The random number value MR3 for determining the variation pattern is a random value used for determining any one of a plurality of types of variation patterns of the decorative design. The random value MR4 for determining the normal figure display result is controlled so that the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6F is set to the first variable state in the open state or the enlarged open state with the variable symbol display result of the normal symbol in the normal game as "per normal figure". It is a random value used to determine whether or not to do.

  In addition to the game control program, the ROM 101 provided in the game control microcomputer 100 stores various selection data and table data used to control the progress of the game. For example, the ROM 101 stores data constituting a plurality of determination tables, determination tables, setting tables and the like prepared for the CPU 103 to perform various determinations, determinations, and settings. Further, the ROM 101 is configured with table data constituting a plurality of command tables used for the CPU 103 to transmit control signals serving as various control commands from the main board 11 and a variation pattern table storing a plurality of types of variation patterns. Table data to be stored is stored.

  The RAM 102 included in the game control microcomputer 100 may be a backup RAM that is partially or entirely backed up by a backup power supply created on a predetermined power supply board. That is, even if the power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 1 is stopped, a part or all of the contents of the RAM 102 is stored for a predetermined period (until the capacitor as the backup power supply is discharged and the backup power supply cannot be supplied). The In particular, at least data corresponding to the game state, that is, the control state of the game control means (such as a special figure process flag) and data indicating the number of unpaid prize balls may be stored in the backup RAM. The data corresponding to the control state of the game control means is data necessary for restoring the control state before the occurrence of a power failure or the like based on the data when the power is restored after a power failure or the like occurs. Further, data corresponding to the control state and data indicating the number of unpaid prize balls are defined as data indicating the progress state of the game. The RAM 102 stores various data used for controlling the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1.

  The effect control board 12 includes an effect control CPU 120 that performs a control operation in accordance with a program, a ROM 121 that stores an effect control program, fixed data, and the like, a RAM 122 that provides a work area for the effect control CPU 120, and an image display device. 5, a display control unit 123 that executes processing for determining the control content of the display operation in FIG. 5, a random number circuit 124 that updates the numerical data indicating the random number value independently of the effect control CPU 120, and the I / O 125. And are installed.

  As an example, in the effect control board 12, when the effect control CPU 120 executes an effect control program read from the ROM 121, a process for controlling the effect operation by the effect electric component is executed. At this time, the effect control CPU 120 reads the fixed data from the ROM 121, the effect control CPU 120 writes the various data to the RAM 122 and temporarily stores the data, and the effect control CPU 120 stores the effect data in the RAM 122. Fluctuation data reading operation for reading out various fluctuation data temporarily stored, the reception control CPU 120 for receiving the input of various signals from the outside of the presentation control board 12 via the I / O 125, and the presentation control CPU 120 for I / O A transmission operation for outputting various signals to the outside of the effect control board 12 via O125 is also performed. The effect control CPU 120, the ROM 121, and the RAM 122 may be included in a one-chip effect control microcomputer mounted on the effect control board 12.

  In the effect control board 12, wiring for transmitting a video signal to the image display device 5, wiring for transmitting a sound effect signal as an information signal indicating sound number data to the sound control board 13, Wiring for transmitting an electrical decoration signal as an information signal indicating lamp data is connected to the lamp control board 14. Furthermore, on the effect control board 12, wiring for transmitting from the controller sensor unit 35A an operation detection signal as an information signal indicating that the player's operation action on the stick controller 31A has been detected, and a game for the push button 31B Wiring for transmitting from the push sensor 35B an operation detection signal as an information signal indicating that the user's operation action has been detected is also connected.

  On the effect control board 12, for example, the random number circuit 124 or the like counts the numerical data indicating various random values used for controlling the effect operation so as to be updatable. The random number used for controlling such a production operation is also called a production random number.

  In addition to the effect control program, the ROM 121 mounted on the effect control board 12 shown in FIG. 2 stores various data tables used for controlling the effect operation. For example, the ROM 121 includes a plurality of determination tables prepared for the effect control CPU 120 to perform various determinations, determinations, and settings, table data configuring the determination table, pattern data configuring various effect control patterns, and the like. It is remembered. The RAM 122 mounted on the effect control board 12 stores various data used for controlling the effect operation.

  The display control unit 123 mounted on the effect control board 12 determines the control content of the display operation in the image display device 5 based on the display control command from the effect control CPU 120. For example, the display control unit 123 performs control for executing decorative display variable display and various effect displays by determining the switching timing of effect images to be displayed in the display area of the image display device 5. As an example, the display control unit 121 may include a VDP (Video Display Processor), a CGROM (Character Generator ROM), a VRAM (Video RAM), an LCD driving circuit, and the like. The VDP may be a graphics processing unit (GPU), a graphics controller LSI (GCL), or a microprocessor for image processing, more commonly referred to as a digital signal processor (DSP). The CGROM may be, for example, a non-rewritable semiconductor memory, a rewritable semiconductor memory such as a flash memory, or a non-volatile recording medium such as a magnetic memory or an optical memory. Any configuration may be used.

  The I / O 125 mounted on the effect control board 12 includes an input port for capturing various signals such as an effect control command transmitted from the main board 11 and the operation detection signal transmitted from the operation detection unit 31, for example. And an output port for transmitting various signals to the outside of the control board 12. For example, from the output port of the I / O 125, a video signal transmitted to the image display device 5, a command (sound effect signal) transmitted to the sound control board 13, and a command transmitted to the lamp control board 14 (Lighting signal) etc. are output.

  In the pachinko gaming machine 1, a predetermined game using a game ball as a game medium is performed, and a predetermined game value can be given based on the game result. As an example of a game using a game ball, a predetermined hitting ball is emitted based on a predetermined operation (for example, a rotation operation) performed by a player on a hitting operation handle installed on the lower right side of the front surface of the housing of the pachinko gaming machine 1 A game ball as a game medium is launched toward a game area by a launch motor provided in the apparatus. When this game ball passes (enters) the first start winning opening formed in the normal winning ball apparatus 6A, the first is based on the fact that the game ball is detected by the first start opening switch 22A shown in FIG. The start condition is met. Thereafter, the first start condition is established based on, for example, the end of the previous special game or the big hit gaming state. In this way, the special figure game using the first special figure by the first special symbol display device 4A is started.

  Further, when the game ball passes (enters) the second start winning opening formed in the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B, the game ball is detected by the second start opening switch 22B shown in FIG. Based on the fact that the game ball is detected by the second start port switch 22B, the second start condition is satisfied. Thereafter, the second start condition is satisfied based on, for example, the end of the last special game or the big hit gaming state. In this way, the special figure game using the second special figure by the second special symbol display device 4B is executed. When the normally variable winning ball apparatus 6B is in the normally open state as the second variable display, it is difficult or impossible for the game ball to pass through the second starting winning opening.

  Based on the fact that the game ball that has passed through the passage gate 41 is detected by the gate switch 21 shown in FIG. 2, the normal symbol starting condition for executing the variable symbol display on the normal symbol display 20 is established. Thereafter, the normal symbol game 20 is started by the normal symbol display 20 based on the fact that the normal symbol start condition for starting variable symbol normal display such as the end of the previous normal symbol game has been completed. In this ordinary game, when a predetermined time elapses after starting the change of the normal symbol, the fixed normal symbol that is the variable display result of the normal symbol is stopped and displayed (derived display). At this time, if a specific normal symbol (a symbol per ordinary symbol) is stopped and displayed as the fixed ordinary symbol, the variable symbol display result of the ordinary symbol becomes “per ordinary symbol”. On the other hand, if a normal symbol other than the symbols per regular symbol is stopped and displayed as the fixed regular symbol, the variable symbol display result of the regular symbol becomes “ordinary symbol losing”. Corresponding to the fact that the normal symbol variable display result is "per normal figure", the opening control and the expansion opening control are performed in which the movable wing piece of the electric tulip constituting the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6F is tilted. When a predetermined time elapses, closing control or normal opening control for returning to the vertical position is performed.

  When a special symbol game using the first special symbol by the first special symbol display device 4A is started or when a special symbol game using the second special symbol by the second special symbol display device 4B is started, a special game is started. It is determined (predetermined) before the variable display result is derived and displayed whether or not the variable display result of the symbol is set to “big hit” as a predetermined specific display result. Then, the variation pattern is determined at a predetermined ratio based on the determination of the variable display result, and the effect control command for designating the variable display result and the variation pattern is the game control microcomputer 100 of the main board 11 shown in FIG. To the effect control board 12.

  After the special figure game is started based on the determination of the variable display result and the variation pattern, for example, when a predetermined variable display time corresponding to the variation pattern elapses, a definite special symbol as a variable display result is derived. Is displayed. Corresponding to the variable display of special symbols by the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B, decorations of “left”, “middle”, and “right” arranged in the display area of the image display device 5 In the symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R, a variable display of a decorative symbol (effect symbol) different from the special symbol is performed. The decorative symbols variably displayed in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R are also referred to as a left symbol, a middle symbol, and a right symbol, respectively.

  In the special symbol game using the first special symbol by the first special symbol display device 4A and the special symbol game using the second special symbol by the second special symbol display device 4B, a fixed special that results in variable display of the special symbol When the symbol is derived and displayed, a fixed decorative symbol that is a variable display result of the decorative symbol is derived and displayed on the image display device 5. As a special symbol variable display result, when a predetermined jackpot symbol is derived and displayed, the variable display result is “big hit” (specific display result), and when a predetermined lose symbol is derived and displayed, the variable display result is “Lose” (non-specific display result). Based on the fact that the variable display result is “big hit”, the game is controlled to the big hit gaming state as a specific gaming state advantageous to the player. That is, whether or not the game state is controlled to the big hit gaming state corresponds to whether or not the variable display result is “big hit”, and is determined (predetermined) before the variable display result is derived and displayed.

  When the variable display result of the special symbol in the special game is “big hit”, a fixed decorative symbol that is a predetermined big hit combination is derived and displayed in the display area of the image display device 5. As an example, a combination of big hits is determined by stopping and displaying the same decorative symbols all together on predetermined effective lines in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R. It is only necessary that the decorative design is derived and displayed.

  In the big hit gaming state, the special winning opening is in an open state, and the special variable winning ball apparatus 7 is in a first state advantageous to the player. Then, in a predetermined period (for example, 29.5 seconds) or a period until a predetermined number (for example, 10) of game balls enter the grand prize opening and a winning ball is generated, the grand prize opening is continuously opened. The round game (also simply referred to as “round”) is executed. During periods other than the execution period of such round games, the big prize opening is closed, and it is difficult or impossible to generate a winning ball. When a game ball enters the big prize opening, the prize winning ball is detected by the big prize opening switch 23, and a predetermined number (for example, 15) of game balls are paid out as a prize ball for each detection. The round game in the big hit game state is repeatedly executed until a predetermined upper limit number of times (for example, “16”) is reached. Therefore, in the big hit gaming state, the player can acquire a large number of prize balls very easily, and the gaming state is advantageous to the player. Note that the pachinko gaming machine 1 may be one that directly pays out game balls that are prize balls, or may be one that gives a score corresponding to the number of game balls that are prize balls.

  After the big hit gaming state is finished, the probability that the variable display result will be “big hit” (hit probability) is controlled to be a positive change state that is higher than the normal state based on the fact that the predetermined probability change control condition is satisfied. There is. In the probability change state, a predetermined probability change end condition is satisfied, for example, a variable display is executed a predetermined number of times (for example, 100 times), or a big hit gaming state is started before the number of executions of the variable display reaches the predetermined number of times. It is controlled to continue until The probability variation end condition may be satisfied when the next big hit gaming state is started regardless of the number of executions of variable display. After the big hit gaming state is ended, the average variable display time may be controlled to the short state when it becomes shorter than the normal state. In the short-time state, a predetermined short-time end condition is satisfied, for example, the variable display is executed a predetermined number of times (for example, 100 times), or the big hit gaming state is started before the variable display execution number reaches the predetermined number of times. It is controlled to continue until

  In the probable change state and the short time state, the normally variable winning ball apparatus 6B is in the first variable state (open state or expanded open state) in an advantageous change mode in which the game ball easily passes (enters) through the second start winning opening than in the normal state. And a second variable state (closed state or normally open state). For example, the normal symbol display unit 20 controls the normal symbol change time (normal diagram change time) in the normal symbol game to be shorter than that in the normal state, or the variable symbol display result of the normal symbol in each normal symbol game is “general”. Tilt control time for controlling the tilt of the movable blade piece in the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B based on the fact that the probability of “per figure” is higher than that in the normal state, and the variable display result is “per figure”. By making the control longer than that in the normal state and increasing the number of tilts more than in the normal state, the normally variable winning ball apparatus 6B is changed to the first variable state and the second variable state in an advantageous change mode. Just do it. Note that any one of these controls may be performed, or a plurality of controls may be performed in combination. In this way, the control for changing the normally variable winning ball apparatus 6B between the first variable state and the second variable state in an advantageous change mode is referred to as high opening control (also referred to as “high base control”). By controlling to such a probable change state and a short time state, the time required until the next variable display result becomes a “big hit” is shortened, and a special game state that is more advantageous to the player than the normal state is obtained. Even when the probability variation control is performed in the probability variation state, the high opening control may not be performed.

  In the image display device 5, the symbols other than the symbol that becomes the final stop symbol (for example, the middle symbol of the left symbol, the middle symbol, and the right symbol) are stopped and shaken in a state where the symbol matches the jackpot combination continuously for a predetermined time. It can be a big hit before the final result is displayed because it is moving, scaling, or deforming, or multiple symbols change synchronously with the same symbol, or the position of the displayed symbol is switched. An effect performed in a state where the sex is continued (hereinafter, these states are referred to as reach states) is referred to as reach effect. Further, the reach state and its state are referred to as a reach mode. Furthermore, variable display including reach production is called reach variable display. A plurality of types of reach modes are prepared in advance corresponding to the decorative pattern variation pattern, etc., and the possibility that the variable display result will be a “big hit” (a big hit expectation) differs depending on the reach mode. That is, it is possible to vary the possibility that the variable display result will be a “hit” depending on which of the multiple types of reach effects is executed. In the reach production, it is only necessary to include a normal reach production and a super reach reach production with a higher degree of expectation of jackpot than the normal reach production. And when the display result of the symbol variably displayed on the screen of the image display device 5 is not a big hit combination, it becomes “lost”, and the variability display state ends.

  As an effect of liquid crystal display on the screen of the image display device 5, variable display of decorative symbols is performed. In addition, on the screen of the image display device 5, for example, an effect using a character image, or an effect of displaying a notification image based on a jackpot determination and a determination result of a variation pattern is executed. Various effects executed during variable display in which variable display of special symbols and decorative symbols is performed are also referred to as “variable display effects”. As an example of effects during variable display, there is a possibility that the decorative display variable display state will reach a reach state due to an effect operation different from the decorative display variable display operation, the possibility that a super reach reach effect will be executed, variable display A notice effect may be executed to suggest to the player in advance that the result may be a “hit”.

  The effect operation that becomes the notice effect is the variable display state of the decorative symbol after the decorative symbol variable display is started in all of the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R. May be executed (started) prior to the reach state (before the decorative symbols are temporarily displayed in the “left” and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L and 5R). In addition, the notice effect that notifies that the variable display result may be a “big hit” may include one that is executed after the variable display state of the decorative symbol becomes the reach state. In this way, the notice effect can be a big hit gaming state at a predetermined timing from the start of variable display of a special symbol or decorative symbol until the finalized special symbol or final decorative symbol resulting in variable display is derived. Anything that can give notice of sex is acceptable. A plurality of notice patterns are prepared in advance corresponding to the contents of the effect operation (effect mode) when such a notice effect is executed.

  When the lost symbol is stopped and displayed (derived) on the first special symbol display device 4A or the second special symbol display device 4B and the variable display result is “lost”, the variable display mode is “non-reach” (“normal reach” A case where the variable display mode is “reach” (also referred to as “reach lose”). When the variable display mode is “non-reach”, the variable display state of the decorative pattern is not reached, after the variable display of the decorative pattern is started, and the combination of the predetermined decorative pattern that does not become reach is stopped. Displayed (derived). When the variable display mode is “reach”, the reach presentation is executed after the variable display state of the decorative symbol becomes the reach state after the decorative symbol variable display is started, and finally the jackpot combination is A combination of predetermined decorative symbols that are not to be displayed is stopped (derived).

  In this embodiment, an effect by displaying an effect image indicating a predetermined character on the screen of the image display device 5 can be executed over a plurality of variable displays. The character displayed on the screen of the image display device 5 is selected from a plurality of types of characters prepared in advance. An effect produced by displaying an effect image indicating one character among the plurality of types of characters on the screen of the image display device 5 is a predetermined instruction input by the player when a predetermined switching effect is executed. Based on this, it can be terminated by switching to another character included in the plurality of types of characters. The switching effects for switching the character to be displayed on the screen of the image display device 5 include a standby switching effect and a changing switching effect. The standby switching effect is executed during standby (in the so-called “customer waiting state”) when variable display of special symbols and decorative symbols is not executed. The changing effect during the change is executed during the change in which the variable display of the special symbol or the decorative symbol is executed. Such a change effect during switching may be included in the effect during variable display executed during variable display of special symbols and decorative symbols.

  In an effect produced by displaying an effect image showing a character selected from a plurality of types of characters on the screen of the image display device 5, the effect image showing one character is an effect image showing another character. It can be said that the display mode is switched from one production mode to another production mode. In this way, the effect by displaying the effect image indicating the character is always executed on the screen of the image display device 5 in correspondence with the execution of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1, and there are plural types of effect modes. It is only necessary to be able to switch among the production modes.

  The game ball used as a game medium in the pachinko gaming machine 1 and the recorded information of the score given corresponding to the number thereof have value that can be exchanged for special prizes or general prizes according to the quantity, for example. That's fine. Alternatively, these game balls and score recording information may not be exchanged for special prizes or general prizes, but may have valuable value that can be used for a second game in the pachinko gaming machine 1.

  Further, the game value that can be given in the pachinko gaming machine 1 is not limited to paying out a game ball as a prize ball or giving a score. Control, the maximum number of rounds that can be executed in the big hit gaming state becomes the first round number (for example, “15”) larger than the second round number (for example, “7”), can be executed in a short time state The upper limit number of variable display becomes a first number (for example, “100”) larger than the second number (for example, “50”), and the big hit probability in the probability variation state is higher than the second probability (for example, 1/50). The first probability (for example, 1/20), the number of consecutive chunks, which is the number of times of repeated control to the big hit gaming state without being controlled to the normal state, is greater than the second consecutive number of chunks (for example, “5”) First Communicating Chang number (e.g. "10") and such part or all of becoming, it may include be a more favorable game situation for the player.

  Next, the operation (action) of the pachinko gaming machine 1 in this embodiment will be described.

  In the main board 11, when power supply from a predetermined power supply board is started, the game control microcomputer 100 is activated, and the CPU 103 executes a predetermined process as a game control main process. When the game control main process is started, the CPU 103 performs necessary initial settings after setting the interrupt disabled. In this initial setting, for example, the RAM 101 is cleared. Also, register setting of a CTC (counter / timer circuit) built in the game control microcomputer 100 is performed. Thereby, thereafter, an interrupt request signal is sent from the CTC to the CPU 103 every predetermined time (for example, 2 milliseconds), and the CPU 103 can periodically execute timer interrupt processing. When the initial setting is completed, an interrupt is permitted and then loop processing is started. In the game control main process, a process for returning the internal state of the pachinko gaming machine 1 to the state at the time of the previous power supply stop may be executed before entering the loop process.

  When the CPU 103 executing such a game control main process receives an interrupt request signal from the CTC and receives an interrupt request, the CPU 103 sets the interrupt disabled state and executes a predetermined game control timer interrupt process. Game control timer interrupt processing includes, for example, switch processing, main-side error processing, information output processing, game random number update processing, game control process processing, normal symbol process processing, command control processing, and the like in pachinko gaming machine 1 Processing for controlling the progress of the process is included.

  The switch processing is processing for determining the state of detection signals input from various switches such as the gate switch 21, the first start port switch 22 </ b> A, the second start port switch 22 </ b> B, and the count switch 23 via the switch circuit 110. The main-side error process is a process of performing an abnormality diagnosis of the pachinko gaming machine 1 and generating a warning if necessary according to the diagnosis result. The information output process is a process for outputting data such as jackpot information, start-up information, probability variation information supplied to a hall management computer installed outside the pachinko gaming machine 1, for example. The game random number update process is a process for updating at least a part of a plurality of types of game random numbers used on the main board 11 side by software.

  In the game control process included in the game control timer interrupt process, the value of the game process flag provided in the RAM 102 is updated according to the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1, and the first special symbol display device 4A or Various processes are selected and executed in order to perform control of the display operation in the second special symbol display device 4B, setting of the opening / closing operation of the big prize opening in the special variable winning ball apparatus 7 in a predetermined procedure. In the normal symbol process, the display operation (for example, turning on / off the segment LED) of the normal symbol display 20 is controlled, variable display of the normal symbol, tilting operation setting of the movable blade piece in the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6F, and the like. It is a process that enables.

  The command control process is a process of transmitting a control command from the main board 11 to a sub-side control board such as the effect control board 12. As an example, in the command control process, the output control board 12 among the output ports included in the I / O 105 corresponds to the setting in the command transmission table specified by the value of the transmission command buffer provided in the RAM 102. After setting the control data in the output port for transmitting the effect control command, the predetermined control data is set in the output port of the effect control INT signal, and the effect control INT signal is turned on for a predetermined time and then turned off. Thus, it is possible to transmit the effect control command based on the setting in the command transmission table. After executing the command control process, after setting the interrupt enabled state, the game control timer interrupt process is terminated.

  FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing an example of the game control process. In the game control process shown in FIG. 3, the CPU 103 of the game control microcomputer 100 first determines whether or not a start winning has occurred (step S11). As an example, in step S11, an input state (on / off) of a start winning signal as a detection signal transmitted from the first start port switch 22A or the second start port switch 22B is checked. What is necessary is just to determine with winning.

  If a start winning is generated in step S11 (step S11; Yes), a winning random number is stored (step S12). As an example, in the process of step S12, a random number circuit 104 built in (or externally attached to) the game control microcomputer 100, a random counter provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 102 in the game control microcomputer 100, or a game control microcomputer A gaming random number (random number for determining a variable display result, gaming state determining random number, etc.) updated by at least a part of a random counter configured using an internal register provided separately from the RAM 102 in the computer 100 A part or all of the numerical data indicating the random number and the random number for determining the variation pattern) is extracted. The random number value extracted at this time may be stored as hold data associated with the hold number, for example, in a hold random number storage unit provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 102 in the game control microcomputer 100.

  Subsequent to the processing in step S12, various control commands corresponding to the start winning prize are transmitted (step S13). As an example, in the process of step S <b> 13, it is only necessary to perform a setting for transmitting a start winning designation command for notifying the occurrence of a start winning to the effect control board 12. Further, based on the random value for determining the variable display result and the random value for determining the variation pattern extracted by the process of step S12, it is determined whether the variable display result is determined as “big hit”, for example, super A determination may be made as to whether or not a specific variation pattern with a specific reach effect, such as a reach effect of a super reach such as A or Super B, is determined. In this case, a symbol designation command that can specify the determination result of whether or not the variable display result is determined to be “big hit”, or a winning determination that can specify the determination result of whether or not the variable display result is determined to be a specific variation pattern Settings for transmitting the result designation command from the main board 11 to the effect control board 12 may be performed.

  In the process of determining whether or not a specific variation pattern is determined, first, it is determined whether or not the variable display result is determined as “big hit” using a random value for determining the variable display result. For example, in a predetermined area of the ROM 101 in the game control microcomputer 100, a variable display result determination table in which a determination value is set for the determination result of whether or not the variable display result is “big hit” is stored in advance. Whether or not the variable display result is determined to be “big hit” by specifying the determination result to which the determination value matching the random value for determining the variable display result extracted by the process of step S12 is assigned. Can be determined. Subsequently, a variation pattern determination table in which different determination values are set for a plurality of types of variation patterns is selected according to the determination result of whether or not the variable display result is determined to be “big hit”. This variation pattern determination table may be stored in advance in a predetermined area of the ROM 101 in the game control microcomputer 100.

  By referring to the variation pattern determination table thus selected, a variation pattern to which a determination value that matches the random number value for variation pattern extraction extracted in step S12 is assigned is specified. Thereby, it can be determined whether or not a specific variation pattern for performing a specific reach effect such as the reach effect of Super A or Super B is determined. As described above, when the game ball passes through the start winning opening (the first starting winning opening or the second starting winning opening) and the start winning is generated, the execution of the variable display game corresponding to the starting winning is started. Before, it is determined whether or not the variation pattern is determined to be a specific variation pattern, and a winning determination result designation command capable of specifying the determination result is transmitted from the main board 11 to the effect control board 12. Just do it.

  When no start winning has occurred in step S11 (step S11; No), after executing the process of step S13, the value of the game process flag is determined (step S21). Then, a process corresponding to the determination value is selected from a plurality of processes previously described in the game control computer program and executed.

  For example, when the value of the game process flag is “0”, it is determined whether or not variable symbol display (variable display game) can be started (step S101). As an example, in the process of step S101, it is determined whether or not the number of holds of the variable display game is “0” by checking the stored contents of the random number storage unit for holding. At this time, if the number of hold is other than “0”, the variable display is started because the start of the variable display has been satisfied and the variable display has not been started yet. Determine that it is possible. On the other hand, when the hold number is “0”, it is determined that variable display cannot be started.

  When variable display cannot be started in step S101 (step S101; No), the game control process is terminated. On the other hand, when variable display can be started (step S101; Yes), a fixed symbol derived and displayed as a variable display result is determined (step S102). At this time, the random number for game (random number for variable display result determination, random number for game state determination, random pattern determination for variation pattern) stored at the head (storage area with the minimum hold number) in the random number storage unit for hold Read random number value). The game random number read from the holding random value storage unit may be temporarily stored in a variable display random number buffer or the like provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 102 in the game control microcomputer 100. Then, using a random value for determining the variable display result and the variable display result determination table, it is determined at a predetermined ratio whether or not the variable display result is “big hit”. Here, when the gaming state in the pachinko gaming machine 1 is a probable variation state, the variable display result determination table is determined so that the variable display result is determined to be “big hit” at a higher rate than in the normal state or the short time state. It is sufficient that the determination value is set.

  When the variable display result is determined to be “big hit” in the process of step S102, the gaming state after the end of the big hit gaming state is further changed using the random number value for gaming state determination and the gaming state determination table. Decide whether or not to enter the special gaming state. Corresponding to these determination results, a fixed symbol derived and displayed as a variable display result may be determined.

  Following the processing in step S102, an internal flag and the like are set (step S103). As an example, in the process of step S103, when the variable display result is determined as “big hit” in the process of step S102, the big hit flag provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 102 in the game control microcomputer 100 is turned on. set. Further, when it is determined that the gaming state after the end of the big hit gaming state is to be a probability variation state, a probability variation confirmation flag provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 102 in the game control microcomputer 100 is set to an on state. In addition, it may be stored in such a way that it can be specified that the state is likely to change. Thereafter, the value of the game process flag is updated to “1” (step S104), and the game control process process is terminated.

  When the value of the game process flag is “1”, a variation pattern or the like is determined (step S111). FIG. 4 shows a setting example of a variation pattern used in the pachinko gaming machine 1. Each variation pattern indicates that the required time (variable display time) from the start of variable display to the display of a fixed symbol that is a variable display result can be specified and the outline of the production mode can be specified. In this embodiment, among the cases where the variable display result is “losing”, the variable display mode of the decorative symbols variably displayed on the image display device 5 is “non-reach” and “reach”. A plurality of variation patterns are prepared in advance corresponding to each case and when the variable display result is “big hit”. For the variation pattern, a plurality of patterns are prepared in advance for each variation time (variable display time) in the variable display of the special figure game or the decorative design. Therefore, by determining the variation pattern, it is possible to determine the variable display time for special symbols and decorative symbols.

  In the process of step S111, the variation pattern to be used is determined at a predetermined rate using the variation pattern determination random value temporarily stored in the variable display random number buffer and the variation pattern determination table. At this time, the variable display result may become “big hit” corresponding to each fluctuation pattern by changing the determination ratio of each fluctuation pattern depending on whether or not the variable display result is decided as “big hit” (Big hit reliability) can be varied. For example, it is possible to vary the possibility that the variable display result will be a “big hit” depending on which of a plurality of types of reach effects is executed. In the example shown in FIG. 4, a plurality of types of reach effects such as normal, super A, and super B are preset. And, when a super-reach reach effect such as Super A or Super B is executed, the variable display result may be a “big hit” compared to the case where a normal reach effect is executed (hit reliability) It is sufficient that the variation pattern determination table is set so that the value becomes high.

  Further, in the process of step S111, it may be determined whether or not the variable display state of the decorative symbol is set to “reach” by determining a variation pattern when the variable display result is determined to be “losing”. . Alternatively, prior to determining the variation pattern, it may be determined whether or not the variable display state of the decorative symbol is set to “reach” by using the reach determination random number value and the reach determination table. That is, in the process of step S111, it is only necessary to determine the variation pattern as one of a plurality of types based on the variable display result and the determination result of reach.

  Subsequent to the process of step S111, various control commands corresponding to the start of variable display are transmitted (step S112). As an example, in the process of step S112, as a variable display start command for specifying the start of variable display, a variable display result notification command for notifying a variable display result, a change pattern specifying command for specifying a change pattern, or the like is transmitted. It is only necessary to be set. Further, in response to the decrease in the hold count due to the start of variable display, a setting for transmitting a hold count notification command for notifying the hold count after the decrease may be performed.

  The variable display time is set in response to the change pattern being determined by the process of step S112. Moreover, the setting for starting the variable display of the special symbol by either the first special symbol display device 4A or the second special symbol display device 4B may be performed. As an example, variable display of symbols may be started by transmitting a predetermined drive signal to either the first special symbol display device 4A or the second special symbol display device 4B. Which special symbol display device using the special symbol on which special symbol display device is to be executed is a special symbol game based on whether the game ball has passed through the first starting winning port or the second starting winning port It may be set accordingly. More specifically, a special game is played by the first special symbol display device 4A based on the fact that the game ball has passed through the first start winning opening. On the other hand, based on the fact that the game ball has passed through the second start winning opening, a special game by the second special symbol display device 4B is performed. Thereafter, the value of the game process flag is updated to “2” (step S113), and the game control process process is terminated.

  When the value of the game process flag is “2”, it is determined whether or not the variable display time has elapsed (step S121). And when variable display time has not passed (step S121; No), after performing variable display control of a special symbol (step S122), game control process processing is ended. On the other hand, when the variable display time has elapsed (step S121; Yes), the variable symbol special display is stopped, and the final symbol is controlled to be derived and displayed (step S123).

  Subsequent to the processing in step S123, various control commands corresponding to the end of variable display are transmitted (step S124). As an example, in the process of step S124, a variable display end command for instructing the end (stop) of variable display, or a big hit start specifying command (fanfare command for specifying the start of a big hit gaming state when the variable display result is “big hit”. ) And the like may be set for transmission.

  After the process of step S124 is executed, it is determined whether or not the variable display result is “big hit” (step S125). If the variable display result is “big hit” (step S125; Yes), the value of the game process flag is updated to “3” (step S126), and the game control process is terminated. On the other hand, when the variable display result is not “big hit” but “losing” (step S125; No), the game process flag is cleared and the value is initialized to “0” (step S125). S127), the game control process is terminated. When the process of step S127 is executed, it is determined whether or not the probability variation state or the time saving state is to be ended, and when it is determined that the predetermined condition is to be ended, these gaming states are ended. Settings for controlling to a normal state may be performed.

  When the value of the game process flag is “3”, it is determined whether or not to end the big hit gaming state depending on whether or not a predetermined big hit end condition is satisfied (step S131). The jackpot end condition may be, for example, that all rounds executed in the jackpot gaming state have ended. When the big hit game state is not ended (step S131; No), the game operation control at the time of the big hit is performed (step 132), and the game control process is ended. On the other hand, when ending the big hit gaming state (step S131; Yes), the setting for controlling the gaming state after the big hit ending is performed (step S133).

  As an example, in the process of step S133, it is determined whether or not the probability variation confirmation flag is on. If it is on, the probability variation flag provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 102 in the game control microcomputer 100 is turned on. Set to. Thus, when it is determined that the variable display result is “big hit”, and it is decided that the gaming state after the end of the big hit gaming state is to be a probable change state, a game corresponding to this decision result is made. It is possible to control the state to a certain change state. Even in the case of controlling to the short time state, a setting corresponding to this may be performed. Thereafter, the game process flag is cleared and its value is initialized to “0” (step S134), and the game control process is terminated.

  Next, the operation in the effect control board 12 will be described. The effect control board 12 is supplied with a power supply voltage from a power supply board or the like. In the effect control CPU 120 in which the power supply for activation is started, a predetermined effect control main process is executed. When the production control main process is started, the production control CPU 120 first executes a predetermined startup process. Thereafter, it is determined whether or not the timer interrupt flag is on. The timer interrupt flag is set to the ON state every time a predetermined time (for example, 2 milliseconds) elapses based on, for example, the CTC register setting. Such an interrupt for turning on the timer interrupt flag is a timer interrupt for effect control. The effect control CPU 120 waits until an effect control timer interrupt occurs.

  When a timer interrupt for effect control occurs and the timer interrupt flag is turned on, the timer interrupt flag is cleared and turned off, and a timer interrupt process for effect control is executed. In addition to the timer control process for effect control, the CPU 120 for effect control can execute an interrupt process for receiving a command, and can receive an effect control command transmitted from the main board 11 via the relay board 15. It only needs to be received. In the timer control process for effect control, the effect control CPU 120 executes command analysis processing. In the command analysis processing, it is determined whether or not an effect control command has been received. If there is a reception, setting or control corresponding to the received command is performed. After executing the command analysis process, the effect control process is executed. In the effect control process, for example, an effect image display operation on the screen of the image display device 5, an audio output operation from the speakers 8L and 8R, a lighting operation in a decorative light emitter (light emitting member) such as a game effect lamp 9 and a decorative LED. The operation control contents using various effect devices such as the drive operation of the effect movable member are determined, determined, and set according to the effect control command transmitted from the main board 11. Following the effect control process, an effect random number update process is executed, and numerical data indicating effect random numbers counted as various random values used for effect control is updated by software.

  FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the effect control process. In the effect control process shown in FIG. 5, the effect control CPU 120 determines the value of the effect process flag stored in a predetermined area or the like of the RAM 122, and from a plurality of processes described in advance in the effect control computer program, A process corresponding to the judgment value is selected and executed. The processing executed according to the determination value of the effect process flag includes the processing of steps S170 to S176.

  The variable display start waiting process in step S170 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “0”. The variable display start waiting process performs variable display of decorative symbols on the screen of the image display device 5 based on whether the first variation start command or the second variation start command transmitted from the main board 11 is received. It includes a process for determining whether or not to start. The first variation start command is an effect control command for notifying that the special figure game using the first special figure by the first special symbol display device 4A is started. The second variation start command is an effect control command for notifying that the special figure game using the second special figure by the second special symbol display device 4B is started. When either the first change start command or the second change start command is received, the value of the effect process flag is updated to “1”.

  The variable display start setting process in step S171 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “1”. This variable display start setting process is performed on the screen of the image display device 5 in response to the start of variable display of special symbols in the special symbol game by the first special symbol display device 4A or the second special symbol display device 4B. In order to perform the variable display of decorative symbols and other various effects, the process of determining the fixed decorative symbols and various effect control patterns according to the variation pattern of the special symbols and the type of display result is included. . When the variable display start setting process is executed, the value of the effect process flag is updated to “2”.

  The variable display effect process in step S172 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “2”. In the effect processing during variable display, the effect control CPU 120 performs various control data from the effect control pattern corresponding to the timer value in the effect control process timer provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 122 (such as an effect control timer setting unit). , And various kinds of effect control during the variable display of the decorative design are included. In addition, in the variable display effect processing, in response to the reception of the symbol confirmation command transmitted from the main board 11, the finalized symbol as the final stop symbol resulting in the variable symbol variable display result is displayed as a complete stop. A process of (derived display) is included. Note that, in response to the end code being read from the predetermined effect control pattern, the finalized decorative symbol may be displayed in a complete stop (derived display). In this case, when the variable display time corresponding to the variation pattern designated by the variation pattern designation command has elapsed, it is autonomous on the side of the production control board 12 without using the production control command from the main board 11. The fixed display pattern can be derived and displayed on the screen to determine the variable display result. After performing such effect control, the value of the effect process flag is updated to “3”.

  The variable display stop process in step S173 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “3”. In the variable display stop process, the jackpot gaming state starts based on the variable display result notified by the variable display result notification command, the determination result of whether or not the jackpot start designation command transmitted from the main board 11 is received, and the like. The process which determines whether it is performed is included. When the variable display result corresponds to “big hit” and the big hit gaming state is started, the value of the production process flag is updated to “4”, while the variable display result corresponds to “lost”. If the big hit gaming state is not started, the effect process flag is cleared and its value is initialized to “0”.

  The jackpot display process of step S174 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “4”. This jackpot display process includes a process for executing a jackpot notification effect (fanfare effect) for notifying the start of the jackpot gaming state based on the reception of the jackpot start designation command transmitted from the main board 11 or the like. Yes. When the execution of the big hit notification effect ends, the value of the effect process flag is updated to “5”.

  The big hit effect process in step S175 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “5”. In this jackpot effect processing, the effect control CPU 120 sets, for example, an effect control pattern corresponding to the effect content in the jackpot effect executed when the game is in the jackpot game state, and displays an effect image based on the set content. Displaying on the screen of the display device 5, outputting sound and sound effect from the speakers 8 </ b> L and 8 </ b> R by outputting a command (sound effect signal) to the sound control board 13, ) To turn on / off / blink the game effect lamp 9 and the decoration LED, and execute other effect control, thereby making it possible to execute a big hit effect corresponding to the big hit game state. In the jackpot effect processing, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to “6” in response to, for example, receiving a jackpot end designation command transmitted from the main board 11.

  The big hit end effect process in step S176 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “6”. In this jackpot end effect process, the effect control CPU 120 sets, for example, an effect control pattern corresponding to the effect content in the jackpot end effect (ending effect) executed when the jackpot game state ends, and the setting contents The effect image based on the image display device 5 is displayed on the screen, the sound (sound effect signal) is output to the sound control board 13, the sound and sound effects are output from the speakers 8L and 8R, and the lamp control board 14 is output. The game effect lamp 9 and the decoration LED are turned on / off / flashed by the output of the command (electric decoration signal), and other effect control can be executed to execute the jackpot end effect corresponding to the end of the jackpot game state To do. Thereafter, the effect process flag is cleared and its value is initialized to “0”.

  FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of processing executed in step S170 of FIG. 5 as variable display start waiting processing. In the variable display start waiting process shown in FIG. 6, the effect control CPU 120 determines whether or not a variation start command such as a first variation start command or a second variation start command is received (step S <b> 201). Whether or not a variation start command has been received is a predetermined flag (first variation start flag or second variation indicating that it has been determined in the command analysis process that the first variation start command or the second variation start command has been received). It suffices if it can be determined according to whether or not the start flag) is on. The first variation start flag and the second variation start flag may be provided in advance in, for example, a predetermined area of the RAM 122 (such as an effect control flag setting unit).

  If no change start command has been received (step S201; No), it is determined whether or not the demonstration display flag is on (step S202). The demonstration display flag is provided in advance in, for example, a predetermined area (such as an effect control flag setting unit) of the RAM 122, and a demonstration display effect is performed by performing a predetermined demonstration display on the screen of the image display device 5. On the other hand, it is set to the ON state in the process of step S213 described later. On the other hand, when the variable display of the decorative symbol is started in response to the variable display of the special symbol in the special symbol game, the demonstration display flag may be cleared and turned off in the process of step S217 described later.

  If the demonstration display flag is off in step S202 (step S202; No), it is determined whether the demonstration display start waiting flag is on (step S203). The demonstration display start waiting flag is provided in advance in, for example, a predetermined area of the RAM 122 (such as an effect control flag setting unit), and is set to an ON state in the process of step S206 described later when variable display of the decorative symbols is completed. Is done. On the other hand, when the demonstration display effect is started, the demonstration display start waiting flag is cleared and turned off in the process of step S212 described later. Also, when the variable display of decorative symbols is started, the demonstration display start waiting flag may be cleared and turned off in the process of step S217 described later.

  When the demonstration display start waiting flag is OFF in step S203 (step S203; No), control for starting execution of the standby switching effect is performed (step S204). For example, the effect control CPU 120 selects an effect control pattern for executing a standby switching effect from a plurality of types of effect control patterns stored in advance in a predetermined area of the ROM 121, and sets the selected effect control pattern as a use pattern. . When setting the usage pattern, for example, a pattern data storage address (first address) in the ROM 121 is stored in a pattern buffer or a pattern pointer provided in a predetermined area (such as an effect control buffer setting unit) of the RAM 122 or an internal register of the CPU 120 for effect control. Address). Based on the production control pattern thus set in the usage pattern, for example, a predetermined display control command is transmitted to the VDP of the display control unit 123, and a predetermined production image is displayed on the screen of the image display device 5. Thus, the execution of the standby switching effect may be started.

  After executing the process of step S204, a predetermined time (for example, 1 minute) set in advance as the demonstration display start waiting time is set (step S205). Further, after a demonstration display start waiting flag provided in a predetermined area (such as an effect control flag setting unit) of the RAM 122 is set to an on state (step S206), the variable display start waiting process is terminated. In this way, when the decorative symbol variable display is not executed, the standby switching effect is executed, and the character to be displayed on the screen of the image display device 5 is switched based on the corresponding instruction input by the player.

  If the demonstration display start wait flag is ON in step S203 (step S203; Yes), it is determined whether or not the demonstration display start waiting time has elapsed (step S207). Then, when the demonstration display start waiting time has not elapsed (step S207; No), it is determined whether or not there is an instruction input for switching the character to be displayed on the screen of the image display device 5 (step S208). For example, the effect control CPU 120 instructs to switch the character when a player's operation action (such as tilting operation) on the stick controller 31A is detected based on the operation detection signal transmitted from the controller sensor unit 35A. It may be determined that there is an input. If there is no such instruction input (step S208; No), the variable display start waiting process is terminated.

  If it is determined in step S208 that there is an instruction input (step S208; Yes), a setting for switching the character to be used, which is a character to be displayed on the screen of the image display device 5, from among a plurality of types of characters. (Step S209). For example, the production control CPU 120 transmits a predetermined display control command to the VDP of the display control unit 123, reads out image data indicating the character after switching from the image data memory such as CGROM, and responds to the image data. What is necessary is just to indicate the display of the produced effect image.

  When the use character is switched by the process of step S209, the switching of the character to be displayed on the screen of the image display device 5 is notified (step S210). For example, the effect control CPU 120 may transmit a predetermined display control command to the VDP of the display control unit 123 to display an effect image for notifying the character switching on the screen of the image display device 5. . Thereby, the player can notify that the execution of one effect included in the multiple types of effects has ended and the start of execution of other effects included in the multiple types of effects can be specified.

  When the demonstration display start waiting time elapses in step S207 (step S207; Yes), control for starting execution of the demonstration display effect is performed (step S211). For example, the effect control CPU 120 selects an effect control pattern for executing a demonstration display effect from a plurality of types of effect control patterns, and sets the selected effect control pattern as a usage pattern. Based on the effect control pattern, for example, a predetermined display control command is transmitted to the VDP of the display control unit 123, and a predetermined effect image is displayed on the screen of the image display device 5. Execution only needs to be started. Even during the execution of the demonstration display effect, the standby switching effect can be continuously executed, and the character to be displayed on the screen of the image display device 5 can be switched based on a predetermined instruction input by the player. do it.

  After executing the process of step S211, the demonstration display start waiting flag is cleared and turned off (step S212), and a demonstration display flag provided in a predetermined area (such as an effect control flag setting unit) of the RAM 122 is set. The on state is set (step S213). When the demonstration display flag is turned on in this way, the demonstration display effect is executed in response to the fact that the demonstration display start waiting time has elapsed since the variable display of the decorative symbols has been completed and the standby has been completed. You can identify that it has started.

  After executing one of the processes in steps S210 and S213, the switching effect counter provided in a predetermined area (such as the effect control counter setting unit) of the RAM 122 is cleared and the count value is initialized to “0”. (Step S214). Further, after setting a predetermined count initial value (eg, “50”, etc.) in a switching limit counter provided in a predetermined area (such as an effect control counter setting unit) of the RAM 122 (step S215), waiting for variable display start End the process.

  When the demonstration display flag is on in step S202 (step S202; Yes), control for executing the demonstration display effect is performed (step S216). For example, the production control CPU 120 transmits a predetermined display control command to, for example, the VDP of the display control unit 123 based on the production control pattern set in the usage pattern, and displays a predetermined display on the screen of the image display device 5. The demonstration display effect is continuously executed by displaying the effect image. The demonstration display effect may end once when a predetermined execution time elapses, and may be executed again after a predetermined interval time elapses. Alternatively, the demonstration display effect may be continuously executed after the demonstration display start waiting time has elapsed until variable display of decorative symbols is started. After executing step S216, the process proceeds to step S208. Thereby, even when the demonstration display effect is being executed, it is only necessary to enable switching of the character to be displayed on the screen of the image display device 5 based on a predetermined instruction input by the player.

  When the fluctuation start command is received in step S201 (step S201; Yes), control for terminating execution of the demonstration display effect or the like is performed (step S217). For example, the effect control CPU 120 may transmit a predetermined display control command to the VDP of the display control unit 123 and display an effect image corresponding to the case where variable display of decorative symbols is started. Accordingly, it is only necessary to terminate the demonstration display effect being executed or the standby switching effect. At this time, if the demonstration display flag is on, the demonstration display flag is cleared and turned off. If the demo display start wait flag is on, the demo display start wait flag is cleared and turned off. After executing the process of step S217, the value of the effect process flag is updated to “1” which is a value corresponding to the variable display start setting process (step S218), and the variable display start waiting process is terminated.

  FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of processing executed in step S171 of FIG. 5 as variable display start setting processing. In the variable display start setting process shown in FIG. 7, the effect control CPU 120 first determines a final stop symbol or the like to be a finalized symbol as a variable symbol display result (step S231). As the process of step S231, the CPU 120 for effect control is based on variable display contents such as the variation pattern indicated by the variation pattern designation command transmitted from the main board 11 and the variable display result indicated by the variable display result notification command. To determine the final stop symbol. As an example, the variable display contents according to the combination of the fluctuation pattern and variable display result include “non-reach (loss)”, “reach (lack)”, “non-probability change (big hit)”, and “probability change (big hit)”. is there.

  When the variable display content is “non-reach (losing)”, the variable display state of the decorative symbol is not changed to the reach state, the fixed decorative symbol of the non-reach combination is stopped and displayed, and the variable display result is “lost”. " When the variable display content is “reach (losing)”, after the variable display state of the decorative symbol becomes the reach state, the fixed decorative symbol of the reach lose combination is stopped and displayed, and the variable display result becomes “losing”. . When the variable display content is “non-probable change (big hit)”, the variable display result is “big hit”, and the gaming state after the end of the big hit gaming state is the short-time state. When the variable display content is “probable change (big hit)”, the variable display result is “big win”, and the gaming state after the big hit gaming state is changed to the probable state.

  When the variable display content is “non-reach (losing)”, the production control CPU 120 uses the “left” and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5R to display different (unmatched) decorative symbols as the final stop symbols. To decide. The effect control CPU 120 extracts numerical data indicating a random number value for determining the left determined symbol updated by an effect random counter or the like provided in a predetermined area (such as an effect control counter setting unit) of the random number circuit 124 or the RAM 122. Referring to the left determined symbol determination table stored and prepared in advance in the ROM 121, the left that is stopped and displayed in the “left” decorative symbol display area 5L on the screen of the image display device 5 among the determined decorative symbols. Determine the final decorative pattern. Next, numerical value data indicating a random number value for determining the right determined symbol updated by the random number circuit 124 or the effect random counter is extracted, and the right determined symbol determining table prepared in advance stored in the ROM 121 is referred to. For example, the right determined decorative symbol to be stopped and displayed in the “right” decorative symbol display area 5R on the screen of the image display device 5 is determined. At this time, the symbol number of the right determined decorative symbol may be determined so as to be different from the symbol number of the left determined decorative symbol by setting in the right determined symbol determining table or the like. Subsequently, the numerical data indicating the random number value for determining the medium fixed symbol updated by the random number circuit 124 or the production random counter is extracted, and the medium fixed symbol determination table prepared in advance stored in the ROM 121 is referred to. From the determined decorative symbols, the medium fixed decorative symbol to be stopped and displayed in the “medium” decorative symbol display area 5C on the screen of the image display device 5 is determined.

  When the variable display content is “reach”, the effect control CPU 120 displays the same (matching) decorative symbols in the “left” and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L and 5R as the final stop symbols. To decide. The effect control CPU 120 extracts numerical data indicating random values for determining the left and right determined symbols that are updated by the random number circuit 124 or the effect random counter, and stores the left and right determined symbol determination table that is stored in advance in the ROM 121 and prepared. By referencing or the like, among the confirmed decorative symbols, decorative symbols having the same symbol number that are stopped and displayed in the “left” and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L and 5R on the screen of the image display device 5 are displayed. decide. Further, numerical data indicating a random number value for determining a medium fixed symbol updated by the random number circuit 124 or a random counter for production is extracted, and a medium fixed symbol determination table stored and prepared in advance in the ROM 121 is referred to. As a result, the medium fixed decorative symbol that is stopped and displayed in the “medium” decorative symbol display area 5C on the screen of the image display device 5 is determined among the fixed decorative symbols. Here, for example, when the confirmed decorative symbol is a jackpot combination, such as when the symbol number of the middle confirmed decorative symbol is the same as the symbol number of the left confirmed decorative symbol and the right confirmed decorative symbol, an arbitrary value (For example, “1”) may be added to or subtracted from the symbol number of the medium-decorated decorative symbol so that the finalized decorative symbol is not the jackpot combination but the reach combination. Alternatively, when determining the medium-decorated decorative symbol, the difference (design difference) between the symbol number of the left confirmed decorative symbol and the right confirmed decorative symbol may be determined, and the medium-decorated decorative symbol corresponding to the symbol difference may be set. .

  When the variable display content is “non-probability change (big hit)” or “probability change (big hit)”, the effect control CPU 120 displays the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R. The same (matching) decorative symbol is determined as the final stop symbol. The effect control CPU 120 extracts numerical data indicating a random value for determining the jackpot determined symbol updated by the random number circuit 124 or the effect random counter. Subsequently, a decorative symbol display area 5L for “left”, “middle”, and “right” on the screen of the image display device 5 by referring to a jackpot determined symbol determination table stored and prepared in advance in the ROM 121, etc. A decorative symbol having the same symbol number that is stopped and displayed along with 5C and 5R is determined. At this time, depending on whether the variable display content is “non-probability change (big hit)” or “probability change (big hit)”, whether or not the promotion effect during the big hit is executed, etc. It is only necessary to determine which one of the design symbol to be displayed and the probability variation symbol (for example, a design symbol that represents an odd number) is the final design symbol. In the jackpot promotion promotion, the combination of decorative symbols (non-probable variation jackpot combination) that reminds the user of the big hit but does not recall the probable state in the image display device 5 is temporarily stopped and displayed in the big hit gaming state or the big hit gaming state. This is an effect of notifying whether or not the state is surely changed at the end of.

  As a specific example, when the variable display content is “non-probable change (big hit)”, a symbol to be a definite decorative symbol is determined from a plurality of types of normal symbols. Further, when the variable display content is “probability change (big hit)” and it is determined not to execute the jackpot promotion effect, the one that becomes the confirmed decorative design is determined from a plurality of types of probability change designs. On the other hand, when the variable display content is “probable change (big hit)”, when it is decided to execute the promotion effect during the big hit, the one that becomes the confirmed decorative symbol is determined from a plurality of types of normal symbols. Accordingly, it is only necessary to prevent the promotion effect during the big hit from being executed despite the fact that the probability variation symbols are all derived and displayed as the confirmed decorative symbols, so that the player is not distrusted.

  In the process of step S231, when the variable display content is “non-probability change (big hit)” or “probability change (big hit)”, it is determined whether or not to execute the probability change promotion effect such as the re-lottery effect or the jackpot promotion effect. May be. In the redraw lottery effect, once the decorative symbol of the non-probable variable big hit combination consisting of the same normal symbol is displayed during variable display of the decorative symbol, it is once difficult to recognize or impossible to recognize that it is controlled to the probabilistic state, It is possible to notify that the control is changed to the probability variation state by variably displaying (revariing) the decoration symbol again and stopping and displaying the decorative symbol of the probability variation big hit combination comprising the same probability variation symbol. Note that there is a case in which the control of the probability variation state is not notified when the decoration symbol of the non-probable variation big hit combination is stopped and displayed after the decoration symbol is re-variable in the re-lottery effect. When it is determined that the re-lottery effect is executed in the process of step S231, a combination of decorative symbols to be temporarily stopped and displayed may be determined before the re-lottery effect is executed.

  Following the determination of the final stop symbol or the like in step S231, the presence / absence of a variable display effect indicating whether or not to execute a variable display effect and the type of variable display effect to be executed are determined (step S232). . In this embodiment, as the types of effects during variable display, “switching effects during change” corresponding to executing the effect during change display during variable display of decorative symbols, and notice effects during variable display of decorative symbols. A “notice effect” corresponding to the execution is provided in advance. As an example, in the process of step S231, a variable display effect type determination table prepared in advance is selected and set as a use table for determining presence / absence and type of variable display effect. In the variable display effect type determination table, a numerical value (determined value) to be compared with the random value for determining the variable display effect type is determined depending on whether the variable display result is “lost” or “big hit”. , The result of “no execution” corresponding to the case where the variable display effect is not executed, and the type of variable display effect such as “switching effect during change” and “notice effect” when executing the variable display effect. As long as it is assigned. Then, the CPU 120 for effect control, for example, based on the numerical data indicating the random value for determining the effect type during variable display extracted from the random number circuit 124 or the random counter of the effect control counter setting unit, the variable display effect type determination table By referring to, the presence / absence and type of the effect during variable display may be determined.

  FIG. 8 shows an example of determining the variable display effect by the process of step S232. In this determination example, whether the variable display result indicated by the variable display result notification command is “losing” or “big hit”, whether the count value of the switching limit counter is “0”, the switching limit Depending on whether the count value of the switching effect counter is “0” to “2” when the counter is “0”, the presence / absence of the variable display effect and the rate at which the type is determined are varied. .

  Based on the determination by the process of step S232 shown in FIG. 7, it is determined whether or not the determination result is “no execution” not to execute the variable display effect (step S233). At this time, when it is determined as “switching effect during change” or “notice effect” and it is determined that it is not “no execution” (step S233; No), is the determination result of “switching effect during change”? It is determined whether or not (step S234). If the determination result is “switching effect during change” (step S234; Yes), the character after switching is determined (step S235). In this embodiment, an effect by displaying an effect image indicating any one of the characters CH1 to CH3 on the screen of the image display device 5 can be executed over a plurality of variable displays. When the changing effect during the change is executed, the character displayed on the screen of the image display device 5 before the execution is specified, and the character that becomes the character after the change is selected from the characters different from the character. What is necessary is just to determine by a ratio. After determining the character after switching, a switching effect pattern corresponding to the determination result is selected (step S236). For example, in a predetermined area of the ROM 121, pattern data constituting a plurality of switching effect patterns may be stored in advance corresponding to the combination of characters before and after switching.

  If it is “notice effect” instead of “switching effect during change” in step S234 (step S234; No), a notice effect pattern to be used is selected from a plurality of patterns prepared in advance (step S234). S237).

  If the determination result is “No execution” in Step S233 (Step S233; Yes), or after performing any of the processes in Steps S236 and S237, an effect control pattern to be a use pattern is prepared in advance. One of the plurality of patterns is determined (step S238). For example, the predetermined area of the ROM 121 may store table data constituting an effect control pattern table prepared in advance for each of the characters CH1 to CH3 that can be displayed on the screen of the image display device 5.

  FIG. 9 shows a configuration example of the effect control pattern table. The effect control pattern table only needs to store a plurality of effect control patterns prepared in advance corresponding to the variation pattern or the like for each of the characters CH1 to CH3 that can be displayed on the screen of the image display device 5. In this embodiment, effect control pattern table 180A to effect control pattern table 180C are provided corresponding to characters CH1 to CH3. For example, in each of the effect control pattern table 180A to the effect control pattern table 180C, for each variation pattern shown in FIG. 4, a decorative display variable display operation, a rendition effect display operation, or a decorative display variable display It is only necessary to store a plurality of special-fluctuation effect control patterns composed of data indicating the control contents of various effect operations such as various effect operations without accompanying. By preparing such a special-fluctuation effect control pattern, the decorative design can be variably displayed depending on which of the characters CH1 to CH3 is displayed on the screen of the image display device 5. What is necessary is just to be able to vary the production mode in a specific production such as the reach production executed during.

  The specific effect executed during the variable display of the decorative design is not limited to the reach effect, and may include effects such as “pseudo-continuous” and “slip”, for example. In the “pseudo-continuous” production, the variable display result is confirmed after the variable display of the decorative symbol is started in response to the start condition for starting the variable display of the special symbol or decorative symbol being established once. Before the decorative symbols are derived and displayed, the decorative symbols are temporarily stopped and displayed in all of the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R, and then all the decorative symbols are displayed. It is only necessary that the effect display in which the decorative symbols are changed again (pseudo continuous change) in the display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R can be performed a predetermined number of times (for example, up to three times). In the “slip” effect, the decorative symbols are changed in all of the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R, and then a plurality of decorative symbol display areas (for example, “left” ”And“ Right ”decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5R, etc.), after a temporary stop display, a predetermined number (for example,“ 1 ”or“ 2 ”) of the temporarily stopped display decorative symbol display areas The decorative symbol display area (for example, one or both of the “left” decorative symbol display area 5L and the “right” decorative symbol display area 5R) is changed again and then stopped. It is only necessary that the decorative pattern to be displayed can be changed.

  Further, for example, each of the effect control pattern table 180A to the effect control pattern table 180C shows the control contents of the effect operation in the notice effect for each of the notice effect patterns that can be selected in the process of step S237 shown in FIG. A plurality of notice effect control patterns composed of data or the like may be stored. By preparing such a notice effect control pattern, it is executed during variable display of decorative symbols depending on whether the character displayed on the screen of the image display device 5 is the character CH1 to the character CH3. It is only necessary to be able to vary the production mode in a predetermined production such as a notice production to be performed.

  Thus, depending on which of the characters CH1 to CH3 is displayed on the screen of the image display device 5, a specific effect executed during the variable display of the decorative design or a part of the effect mode in the predetermined effect or It is only necessary to make everything different. Therefore, displaying any one of the characters CH1 to CH3 on the screen of the image display device 5 corresponds to executing one effect among a plurality of effects. The character displayed on the screen of the image display device 5 is continuously displayed until an instruction input for switching the character is input when the standby switching effect or the changing switching effect is executed. . Thereby, the effect by displaying any one of the characters CH1 to CH3 on the screen of the image display device 5, and the specific effect or the predetermined effect executed in the effect mode corresponding to this, the special design or decoration It can be executed over a plurality of variable displays using symbols. That is, one effect among a plurality of effects can be executed over a plurality of variable displays.

  Examples of the effect mode in a specific effect or a predetermined effect include display modes of various effect images such as background images and decorative patterns displayed on the screen of the image display device 5 and sound effects (for example, music and characters) of the speakers 8L and 8R. One of the production modes of various production devices such as the output mode of speech, other temporarily or continuously reproducible sound), the lighting mode of the game effect lamp 9 and the decoration LED, the operation mode of the movable member for production, etc. It is only necessary to include some or all of them. Depending on the character displayed on the screen of the image display device 5, by changing a part or all of the effect modes in the various effect devices included in the pachinko game machine 1, there are a plurality of effect states in the pachinko game machine 1. It may be changed to any one of the production modes.

  Further, for each switching effect pattern that can be selected in the process of step S236 shown in FIG. 7, the changing switching effect control pattern configured from data indicating the control content of the effect operation in the changing switching effect is displayed. A plurality may be stored in the control pattern table 180A to the effect control pattern table 180C or an effect control pattern table provided separately. In addition, the standby switching effect control pattern composed of data indicating the control content of the effect operation in the standby switching effect is stored in the effect control pattern table 180A to the effect control pattern table 180C or an effect control pattern table provided separately. It may be stored.

  FIG. 10A shows a configuration example of various effect control patterns, such as a special-fluctuation effect control pattern, a notice effect control pattern, a switching effect control pattern during change, and a switch effect control pattern during standby. The effect control pattern shown in FIG. 10A is for controlling various effect operations such as an effect control process timer determination value, display control data, sound control data, lamp control data, operation detection control data, and an end code. It consists of control data, and the contents of various effects control, the timing of switching the effects control, etc. are set in time series. In addition, the effect control pattern may include, for example, movable member control data for designating operation control contents and the like in the effect movable member provided inside or outside the game area. The effect control process timer determination value is a value (determination value) to be compared with the timer value of the effect control process timer provided in a predetermined area (for example, the effect control timer setting unit) of the RAM 122, and the execution of each effect operation is performed. A determination value corresponding to the time (effect time) is set in advance. In place of the effect control process timer determination value, for example, a predetermined effect control command is received from the main board 11, or a predetermined process is executed as a process for controlling the effect operation in the effect control CPU 120. The data indicating the switching timing of effect control or the like may be set corresponding to predetermined control content or processing content.

  The display control data includes data indicating the display mode of the effect image on the screen of the image display device 5 such as data indicating the variation mode of each decorative pattern during the variable display of the decorative symbol. That is, the display control data is data that designates the display operation of the effect image on the screen of the image display device 5. The voice control data includes data indicating the voice output mode from the speakers 8L and 8R, such as data indicating the output mode of sound effects in conjunction with the variable display operation of the decorative symbol during variable display of the decorative symbol, for example. Yes. That is, the audio control data is data that designates an audio output operation from the speakers 8L and 8R. The lamp control data includes data indicating the lighting operation mode of the light emitter, such as a game effect lamp 9 and a decoration LED. That is, the lamp control data is data for designating the lighting operation of the light emitter.

  The operation detection control data includes, for example, an operation effective period for effectively detecting a tilting operation with respect to the operation rod of the stick controller 31A and an instruction operation for the trigger button, an operation effective period for effectively detecting an instruction operation for the push button 31B, Data indicating an effect operation mode according to the player's operation action, such as data designating the control content of the effect operation when each operation is detected effectively, is included.

  Note that these control data do not have to be included in all the effect control patterns, but an effect control pattern including a part of the control data according to the contents of the effect operation by each effect control pattern. There may be. Further, in the plural types of process data included in the effect control pattern, the types of control data constituting each process data may be different according to the contents of the effect operation executed at each timing. That is, there may be process data configured to include all of the display control data, sound control data, lamp control data, and operation detection control data, or process data configured to include a part of these. Further, for example, various other control data such as movable member control data indicating an operation mode of the movable member of the effect model may be included.

  FIG. 10B shows various effect operations executed according to the contents of the effect control pattern. The production control CPU 120 determines the control content of the production operation according to various control data included in the production control pattern. For example, when the effect control process timer value matches one of the effect control process timer determination values, the decorative design is displayed in a manner specified by the display control data associated with the effect control process timer determination value, and the character Control is performed to display various effect images such as effect images and background images on the screen of the image display device 5. In addition, control is performed to output sound from the speakers 8L and 8R in a manner specified by the sound control data, and control is performed to blink a light emitter such as a game effect lamp 9 or a decoration LED in a manner specified by the lamp control data. Control is performed to determine the content of the effect by accepting an operation on the stick controller 31A or the push button 31B in the operation valid period specified by the operation detection control data. Note that dummy data (data not specifying control) may be set as data corresponding to a rendering device that is not a control target even though it corresponds to the rendering control process timer determination value. The effect operation shown in FIG. 10B corresponds to the entire period from the start of the change of the decorative design to the final stop, but is not limited to this, and during the variable display of the decorative design An effect control pattern for executing the effect operation corresponding to a part of the period may be provided. Alternatively, in order to execute the presentation operation corresponding to a predetermined period other than the variable display of the decorative symbols (for example, a period in which a round is being executed in the jackpot gaming state, a period in which an ending effect is executed at the end of the jackpot gaming state, etc.) The effect control pattern may be provided.

  The effect control CPU 120 determines and uses the effect control pattern (special pattern change effect control pattern) based on the change pattern indicated in the change pattern designation command in the process of step S238 shown in FIG. Set to pattern. Further, the effect control CPU 120 determines an effect control pattern (notice effect control pattern) based on the notice effect pattern selected in the process of step S237, and sets it to the use pattern. Here, when setting the effect control pattern, the pattern data constituting the corresponding effect control pattern may be read from the ROM 121 and temporarily stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 122, or the corresponding effect control pattern is configured. The storage address of the pattern data in the ROM 121 may be temporarily stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 122, and the reading position of the storage data in the ROM 121 may be designated.

  After executing the processing of step 238, for example, the initial value of the effect control process timer provided in a predetermined area (such as the effect control timer setting unit) of the RAM 122 corresponding to the change pattern specified by the change pattern specifying command is set. Setting is made (step S239). And the setting for starting the fluctuation | variation of a decoration design etc. on the screen of the image display apparatus 5 is performed (step S240). At this time, for example, the display control command designated by the display control data included in the effect control pattern (the effect control pattern at the time of special figure change) determined in the process of step S238 is transmitted to the VDP 130 of the display control unit 123. For example, the variation of the decorative symbols may be started in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R provided in the display area of the image display device 5.

  Following the process of step S240, in response to the start of variable display of decorative symbols, settings are made to update the hold storage display in the start winning storage display area 5H (step S241). For example, the display part corresponding to the hold number “1” in the start winning memory display area 5H may be deleted and the entire display part may be moved to the left one by one. Thereafter, the value of the effect process flag is updated to “2”, which is a value corresponding to the effect process during variable display (step S242), and the variable display start setting process ends.

  FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process executed in step S172 of FIG. 5 as the variable display effect process. In the effect processing during variable display shown in FIG. 11, the effect control CPU 120 first determines whether or not the variable display time corresponding to the variation pattern has passed based on, for example, the timer value of the effect control process timer ( Step S251). As an example, in the process of step S451, the timer value of the effect control process timer is updated (for example, 1 is subtracted), and an end code is read from the effect control pattern corresponding to the updated effect control process timer value. In addition, it may be determined that the variable display time has elapsed.

  If the variable display time has not elapsed in step S251 (step S251; No), it is determined whether or not it is a changing effect production execution period (step S252). The changing effect execution period during change may be determined in advance in, for example, the effect control pattern (switching effect control pattern during change) determined in the process of step S238 shown in FIG. If it is the changing effect execution period during change (step S252; Yes), the changing effect effect processing during change is executed.

  FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the changing switching effect process executed in step S253 of FIG. In the changing switching effect process shown in FIG. 12, the effect control CPU 120 first determines whether or not the instruction input valid flag is on (step S301). The instruction input valid flag is provided in, for example, a predetermined area (such as an effect control flag setting unit) of the RAM 122, and an effective detection period for effectively detecting a predetermined instruction input by the player (for example, pressing operation on the push button 31B). Show. The instruction input valid flag is set to the ON state by the process of step S304 described later corresponding to the start of the validity detection period, and is cleared by the process of step S314 described later corresponding to the end of the valid detection period. Off.

  If the instruction input valid flag is off in step S301 (step S301; No), the instruction input valid time is set (step S302). The instruction input effective time may be determined in advance by, for example, an effect control pattern (switching effect control pattern during change) determined in the process of step S238 shown in FIG. Subsequently, for example, control for starting execution of the switching effect during change is performed based on the setting in the changing effect control pattern during change (step S303). The effect control CPU 120 may start the execution of the effect operation such as displaying the effect image in the changing switching effect by transmitting a predetermined display control command to the VDP of the display control unit 123. In response to the start of such a changing effect, the instruction input valid flag is set to the on state (step S304), and then the changing effect is changed.

  If the instruction input valid flag is on in step S301 (step S301; Yes), it is determined whether or not the instruction input valid period has elapsed (step S305). At this time, if the instruction input valid period has not elapsed (step S305; No), it is determined whether or not there is an instruction input for switching a character to be displayed on the screen of the image display device 5 (step S306). For example, the effect control CPU 120 inputs an instruction to switch characters when a player's operation action (such as a pressing operation) on the push button 31B is detected based on the operation detection signal transmitted from the push sensor 35B. What is necessary is just to determine that there exists. If there is no such instruction input (step S306; No), the changing effect display process during the change is terminated.

  The character after switching by the player's selection based on the changing effect during switching is determined in advance when variable display is started, for example, by the process of step S235 shown in FIG. Therefore, in the process of step S306, it may be determined that there is an instruction input based on an operation action simpler than the process of step S208 shown in FIG. 6, such as a pressing operation on the push button 31B. As a result, even when the time during which special symbols and decorative symbols are variably displayed (such as the special symbol variation time) is short, the player can select a character to be switched by a simple operation action, and can produce multiple types of effects. What is necessary is just to be able to select to end the execution of the included effect.

  If it is determined in step S306 that there is an instruction input (step S306; Yes), a setting for switching the character to be used, which is a character to be displayed on the screen of the image display device 5, from among a plurality of types of characters. Is performed (step S307). For example, the production control CPU 120 transmits a predetermined display control command to the VDP of the display control unit 123, reads out image data indicating the character after switching from the image data memory such as CGROM, and responds to the image data. What is necessary is just to indicate the display of the produced effect image.

  When the character to be used is switched by the process of step S307, the switching of the character to be displayed on the screen of the image display device 5 is notified (step S308). For example, the effect control CPU 120 may transmit a predetermined display control command to the VDP of the display control unit 123 to display an effect image for notifying the character switching on the screen of the image display device 5. . Thereby, the player can notify that the execution of one effect included in the multiple types of effects has ended and the start of execution of other effects included in the multiple types of effects can be specified. At this time, the switching effect counter is cleared and the count value is initialized to “0” (step S309).

  When the instruction input valid time has elapsed in step S305 (step S305; Yes), it is determined whether or not the count value of the switching effect counter is a predetermined upper limit value (for example, “2” or the like) (step S310). At this time, when it is determined that the value is not the upper limit value (step S310; No), the count value of the switching effect counter is updated so as to be incremented by 1 (step S311). The switching effect counter is cleared and initialized to “0” when the process of step S309 is executed or when the process of step S214 shown in FIG. 6 is executed. After that, until the count value of the switching effect counter reaches the upper limit value, every time the instruction input effective time elapses without detecting the instruction input for switching the character in the changing switching effect, the process of step S311 is performed. The count value is incremented by one. In the process of step S232 shown in FIG. 7, for example, as shown in FIG. 8, when the count value of the switching limit counter is “0”, the variable display effect is varied at a different rate depending on the count value of the switching effect counter. Is determined as “switching effect during change”.

  More specifically, when the count value of the switching effect counter is “0”, the type of the variable display effect is changed to “switching effect during change” at the first rate (10/100 = 1/10). It is determined. When the count value of the switching effect counter is “1”, the type of the variable display effect is a second ratio (a ratio of 2/100 = 1/50) lower than the first ratio. Determined. When the count value of the switching effect counter is “2”, the type of the variable display effect is determined to be “switching effect during change” at a third ratio (a ratio of 1/100) lower than the second ratio. Is done.

  The process of step S309 is executed when the character used is switched by the process of step S307. Therefore, when one effect included in a plurality of types of effects is being executed, the changing change effect is changed to the first ratio (eg, 1) until the changing effect is changed a predetermined number of times (eg, once). ), And after executing the changing switching effect for a predetermined number of times, the changing effect of changing is executed at a second rate lower than the first rate (for example, a rate of 1/50). To do. In addition, when the ratio of executing the switching effect during change is set to the second ratio, when one effect included in a plurality of types of effects is being executed in response to the fact that the character used is not switched. After executing the changing effect during the change at the second rate for a predetermined number of times (for example, once), the changing effect during change is executed at the third rate (for example, a rate of 1/100) lower than the second rate. To do.

  When the character used is switched by the process of step S307, the switching effect counter is cleared by the process of step S309, and the count value is initialized to “0”. Therefore, when switching to another character is selected by the player based on the switching effect during change, the switching effect during change after switching is performed regardless of the ratio of executing the switching effect during change before switching as such. Until the predetermined number of times (for example, once) is executed, the changing effect during change is executed at the first ratio (for example, a ratio of 1/10).

  When the count value of the switching effect counter is the upper limit value in Step S310 (Step S310; Yes), or after performing any of the processes of Steps S309 and S311, the count initial value set in advance in the switching limit counter (For example, “50” or the like) is set (step S312). Further, control for ending execution of the changing effect during change is performed (step S313). Then, after the instruction input valid flag is cleared and turned off (step S314), the changing switching effect process is terminated.

  If it is not the changing effect execution period during step S252 (step S252; No), or after executing the changing effect processing during change in step S253, it is determined whether it is the notice effect execution period (step) S254). The notice effect execution period may be determined in advance in, for example, the effect control pattern (notice effect control pattern) determined in the process of step S238 shown in FIG. If it is the notice effect execution period (step S254; Yes), control for executing the notice effect is performed (step S255).

  When it is not the notice effect execution period in step S254 (step S254; No), after executing the process of step S255, it is determined whether or not it is the reach effect execution period (step S256). The reach effect execution period may be determined in advance in, for example, the effect control pattern (special-fluctuation effect control pattern) determined in the process of step S238 shown in FIG. If it is the reach effect execution period (step S256; Yes), control for executing the reach effect is performed (step S257).

  If it is not the reach effect execution period in step S256 (step S256; No), after executing the process of step S257, control for executing other effect operations such as a decorative display variable display operation is performed. (Step S258), the variable display effect process is terminated.

  As an example, in the process of steps S255, S257, and S258, the timer value of the effect control process timer is set to the effect control process timer determination value with reference to the effect control pattern determined in the process of step S238 shown in FIG. Judgment is made as to whether or not any of them is met. Then, when it matches any one of the production control process timer determination values, the production operation is controlled according to the corresponding various control data. In this way, the effect control CPU 120 performs the effect device (image display device 5) according to the contents of process data # 1 to process data #n (n is an arbitrary integer) included in the effect control pattern as shown in FIG. , Control of the speakers 8L, 8R, the game effect lamp 9 and a light emitting body such as a decoration LED, a movable member for production, etc.) is advanced. In each process data # 1 to process data #n, display control data # 1 to display control data #n and voice control data # 1 to voice control associated with production control process timer determination values # 1 to #n are provided. Data #n, lamp control data # 1 to lamp control data #n, and operation detection control data # 1 to operation detection control data #n indicate the control content of the rendering operation in the rendering device and specify the execution of the rendering control. Control execution data # 1 to production control execution data #n are configured.

  A command according to such effect control execution data is output from the effect control CPU 120 to the display control unit 123, the sound control board 13, and the like. In the display control unit 123 that has received a command from the effect control CPU 120, for example, the VDP reads image data indicated by the command from a CGROM (image data memory) and temporarily stores it in the VRAM. The VDP also selects image data corresponding to the display screen of the image display device 5 from the image data stored in the VRAM, converts the selected image data into pixel data, and the like. Display data for one screen is created in the frame buffer by placing the image display device 5 at a position indicated by information indicating the display position on the screen. When the voice control board 13 receives the command from the effect control CPU 120, for example, the voice synthesis IC reads the voice data indicated by the command from the voice data ROM and temporarily stores it in the voice RAM or the like. In this manner, a predetermined effect image is displayed on the screen of the image display device 5, a predetermined sound effect is output from the speakers 8L and 8R, and the game effect lamp 9 and the decoration LED are turned on, blinking, or turned off. What is necessary is just to be able to perform various production | presentation in a predetermined production | presentation apparatus by making it combine or some or all of these.

  If the variable display time has elapsed in step S251 (step S251; Yes), it is determined whether or not a symbol confirmation command transmitted from the main board 11 has been received (step S259). At this time, if the symbol confirmation command is not received (step S259; No), the variable display effect processing is terminated and waits. If the predetermined time has elapsed without receiving the symbol confirmation command after the variable display time has elapsed, predetermined error processing is executed in response to the failure to successfully receive the symbol confirmation command. You may make it do.

  When a symbol confirmation command is received in step S259 (step S259; Yes), for example, display is performed in a decorative symbol variable display such as transmitting a predetermined display control command to the VDP of the display control unit 123. A control for deriving and displaying the final stop symbol (definite decorative symbol) as a result is performed (step S260). In addition, a predetermined time is set as a waiting time for specifying the hit start designation command (step S261). Then, the value of the effect process flag is updated to “3” which is a value corresponding to the variable display stop process (step S262). At this time, it is determined whether or not the count value of the switching limit counter is “0” (step S263).

  If the count value of the switching limit counter is “0” in step S263 (step S263; Yes), the variable display effect process is terminated. On the other hand, if the count value is other than “0” (step S263; No), the count value of the switching limit counter is updated so as to be decremented by 1 (step S264), and the variable display effect process is terminated. To do. For example, when the process of step S215 shown in FIG. 6 is executed or when the process of step S312 shown in FIG. 12 is executed, the switching limit counter is set with a predetermined initial count value (for example, “50” or the like). Is done. Thereafter, until the count value of the switching limit counter reaches “0”, the count value is decremented by 1 in the process of step S264 every time the decorative symbol variable display is executed. In the process of step S232 shown in FIG. 7, for example, as shown in FIG. 8, the type of variable display effect is “switching effect during change” corresponding to the case where the count value of the switching limit counter is other than “0”. Is not determined (the determination ratio is “0”). Therefore, by switching the character displayed on the screen of the image display device 5, when the execution of one of the multiple types of effects is finished, the variable display of special symbols and decorative symbols is executed a specific number of times. Until then, the restriction is set so as not to execute the changing effect during the change.

  Next, a specific operation example in the case where a switching effect such as a standby switching effect or a changing effect during change is executed using the image display device 5 will be described. In the variable display start waiting process shown in FIG. 6, the process of step S204 is executed based on the determination that the demonstration display start waiting flag is off in the process of step S203. As a result, execution of the standby switching effect is started. At this time, in response to the determination that the demonstration display flag is OFF in the process of step S202, execution of the demonstration display effect for displaying the demonstration image on the screen of the image display device 5 has been started. Absent. In the period of waiting for the demonstration display start waiting for the execution of such a demonstration display effect, for example, a standby switching effect as shown in FIG. 13A is executed. More specifically, on the screen of the image display device 5, the decorative symbols are stopped and displayed in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R. The variable display of symbols is not executed. Then, for example, an effect image (such as a character image) indicating the message MS1 such as “Character switching accepted” is displayed, and effect images indicating the characters CH1 to CH3 are displayed side by side. The player can select a character to be displayed on the screen of the image display device 5 by moving the cursor CU, for example, by a predetermined operation action (tilting operation or the like) on the stick controller 31A. The cursor CU is displayed in a state in which the character (character CH1 in the example of FIG. 13A) that has been displayed on the screen of the image display device 5 until the standby switching effect is executed is selected by the player. If there is no operation action, the character displayed before the standby switching effect is executed may be continuously displayed during the subsequent variable display.

  When it is determined in step S207 shown in FIG. 6 that the demonstration display start waiting time has elapsed, the execution of the demonstration display effect is started by executing the process of step S211. During the demonstration display effect in which such a demonstration display effect is executed, it is only necessary that the standby switching effect can be continuously executed as shown in FIG. 13B, for example. In addition, after the character switching is temporarily selected based on the standby switching effect, the standby switching is performed until the execution of the standby switching effect is finished and the special symbol and decorative symbol variable display is started. A restriction may be provided so that the performance is not executed. Alternatively, the standby switching effect may be continuously executed even after the use character switching is once selected. Alternatively, when the switching of the character to be used is selected based on the standby switching effect, the standby switching effect is temporarily stopped, but after that, the variable symbol display is not started and the predetermined symbol (decorative display) is not started. When, for example, 3 minutes elapses, execution of the standby switching effect may be started again.

  When the execution of the demonstration display effect is started, after the process of step S211 shown in FIG. 6 is executed, the switching effect counter is cleared by the process of step S214, and the count value is initialized to “0”. . In the process of step S232 shown in FIG. 7, for example, as shown in FIG. 8, when the count value of the switching limit counter is “0”, the variable display effect is varied at a different rate depending on the count value of the switching effect counter. Is determined as “switching effect during change”. Therefore, if the execution of a new variable display is not started until the predetermined time e.g. the demonstration display start waiting time elapses after the variable display of the special symbol or the decorative symbol is finished, the switching effect during the change before that is started. Regardless of the rate at which the change effect is executed, the change effect during change is executed at the first rate (eg, 1/10 rate) until the change effect during change is executed a predetermined number of times (eg, once). That is, after the variable display of the special symbol and the decorative symbol is not executed for a predetermined period, the changing effect during change is executed at the first ratio.

  It should be noted that the process of step S214 may be executed to clear the switching effect counter when a predetermined time elapses separately from the demonstration display start waiting time. Even when a predetermined time has elapsed after the variable symbols and special symbols have been variably displayed, for example, when a game ball shot into the game area is detected (launched ball is detected), or a ball control handle (control knob) When the player's contact is detected by the touch sensor provided in (), the switching effect counter may be limited so as not to be cleared. In addition, when the predetermined absence determination condition is satisfied, the switching effect counter may be cleared so that the changing effect during the change is executed at the first rate.

  When it is determined in the process of step S207 shown in FIG. 6 that the demonstration display start waiting time has elapsed, the process of step S211 is executed and the execution of the demonstration display effect is started. A restriction may be provided so that the standby switching effect is not executed until the execution of the demonstration display effect is finished after the execution is finished. Alternatively, regardless of whether or not the execution of the demonstration display effect is started, when a predetermined time (for example, 3 minutes) has elapsed after the variable display of the special symbol or the decorative symbol has ended, the standby switching effect is executed. You may end. When the special symbol or decorative symbol variable display is not executed, execution of the standby switching effect may be started based on a predetermined instruction input by the player, such as a pressing operation on the push button 31B. . When variable display of special symbols and decorative symbols is not executed, the period during which the character can be switched by the player's selection by repeating the start and end of execution of the standby switching effect every time a predetermined time elapses And the period in which such switching is impossible may alternately occur.

  In response to the variable display of the special symbol in the special symbol game, when the variable display of the decorative symbol is started, the presence / absence and type of the variable display effect are determined in the process of step S232 shown in FIG. At this time, for example, the variable display effect is determined at a determination ratio as shown in FIG. 8, for example, and it is alternatively determined whether to execute the changing switching effect or the notice effect as the variable display effect. Is done. Therefore, when the notice effect that the variable display result is “big hit” is being executed, it is possible to select whether or not to end the effect in the effect mode corresponding to the character displayed on the screen of the image display device 5. A restriction is provided so that the switching effect during change is not executed.

  Thus, a restriction may be provided so that the changing switching effect is not executed during the variable display in which the notice effect is executed. Alternatively, even when one variable display is being executed, when the notice effect is being executed by making the execution period of the notice effect different from the execution period of the change effect during change, A restriction may be provided so that it is not executed. Alternatively, for example, an effect device used to execute a notice effect, such as an effect device of a light emitter such as the image display device 5, speakers 8L and 8R, game effect lamp 9 and decoration LED, or a movable member for effect. While the change effect using the same effect device is restricted so that the change effect during change is not executed, the change effect during change using the effect device different from the effect device used for executing the notice effect is made executable. Also good. Even when the notice effect and the changing effect during the change are executed simultaneously using the same effect device, for example, the changing effect of the changing effect is changed so that the region where the effect image is displayed on the screen of the image display device 5 is different. There may be restrictions on execution. In other words, when the notice effect is not executed, or in the effect device, the effect region, etc., execution of the changing effect during change may be permitted.

  Further, a restriction may be provided so that the notice effect is not executed during execution of variable display in which the changing effect during change is executed. In addition, when the changing effect during change is being executed, a restriction may be provided so that the notice effect is not executed.

  When variable display of special symbols in the special game is started, for example, the process of step S240 shown in FIG. 7 is executed. Thereby, on the screen of the image display device 5, for example, the decorative symbols that are stopped and displayed as shown in FIG. 14A start variable display as shown in FIG. 14B. In the example shown in FIG. 14A, an effect image showing the character CH1 is displayed on the screen of the image display device 5. When the execution of such variable display is started, the presence / absence and type of effects during variable display are determined by executing the process of step S232 shown in FIG. At this time, for example, as shown in FIG. 8, the type of variable display effect is determined as “switching effect during change” at a rate corresponding to the count value of the switching restriction counter or the switching effect counter. As a specific example, when the count value of the switching limit counter is “0” and the count value of the switching effect counter is “0”, the variable display result is “lost” or “big hit”. Regardless of this, the type of effect during variable display is determined as “switching effect during change” at a ratio of 10/100 (= 1/10).

  After that, when it is determined in step S252 shown in FIG. 11 that it is the changing effect production period during change, the changing effect production process shown in FIG. 12 is executed in step S253. When the effect during variable display is determined in the process of step S232 shown in FIG. 7, when the type of effect during variable display is determined as “switching effect during change”, it is not determined as “notice effect”, When it is determined to be “effect”, the table data of the variable display effect determination table is set in advance so that it is not determined to be “switching effect during change”. Therefore, when it is determined in step S252 shown in FIG. 11 that it is the changing effect execution period during change, it is not determined in step S254 that it is the notice effect execution period. If it is determined in step S254 that it is a notice effect execution period, it is not determined in step S252 that it is a changing effect production execution period. Thus, when the notice effect is executed, a restriction is provided so that the changing effect during change is not executed. Since the notice effect and the changing effect during the change are alternatively executed, it is determined whether the variable effect during the display shown in FIG. 11 is either the changing effect execution period during the change or the notice effect executing period. You may make it determine. Thereby, it can prevent reliably that the change effect during a change and a notice effect are performed repeatedly.

  The changing effect execution period during change is, for example, an effect control pattern (switching effect during changing) determined in the process of step S238 shown in FIG. 7 based on the type of changing display effect being changed to “switching effect during change”. In the control pattern, a constant start timing and end timing (for example, a timing according to an elapsed time after the start of fluctuation) may be determined in advance regardless of the fluctuation pattern. Alternatively, as a start timing and an end timing of the changing effect execution period during change, an effect control pattern (a special control change effect display control pattern that is determined in accordance with the change pattern, for example, is determined depending on the change pattern. ) May be determined in advance.

  In the changing change effect process shown in FIG. 12, the execution of the changing effect is started by executing the process of step S303. At this time, for example, as shown in FIG. 14C, an effect image indicating the message MS2 is displayed on the screen of the image display device 5, so that a predetermined instruction input such as a pressing operation on the push button 31B is made by the player. Inspired by By changing the character CH1 displayed on the screen of the image display device 5 to the character CH2 by the notification of the message MS2, etc., the effect corresponding to the display of the effect image indicating the character CH1 is terminated, and the character CH2 is displayed. It is possible to notify the player that the player can recognize that it is possible to switch to another effect corresponding to the display of the effect image shown.

  Based on the changing effect during the change, for example, as shown in FIG. 14D, the player selects the end of the effect corresponding to the display of the effect image indicating the character CH1 by pressing the push button 31B. When this happens, the character displayed on the screen of the image display device 5 is changed from the character CH1 to the character CH2 in accordance with the content of the message MS2. The effect control CPU 120 performs setting for switching the character to be used in step S307 based on the determination that there is an instruction input for switching the character in step S306 shown in FIG. As a result, an effect image showing the character CH2 as shown in FIG. 14E is displayed on the screen of the image display device 5, and accompanying this, other effect states (for example, background image, sound effect output, light emitter) A part or all of the lighting mode and the like may be switched. Then, the effect image indicating the message MS3 is displayed on the screen of the image display device 5 by executing the process of step S308. The effect corresponding to the display of the effect image indicating the character CH1 displayed on the screen of the image display device 5 is terminated by the notification of the message MS3 or the like, and another effect corresponding to the display of the effect image indicating the character CH2 is completed. It is possible to notify the player that the execution is started by recognizing it. For example, based on the fact that the decorative symbol variable display state has reached the reach state, for example, as shown in FIG. 14F, a reach effect using an effect image indicating the character CH2 may be executed.

  If the player has not made a selection for ending the effect of 1 such as a pressing operation on the push button 31B when the changing effect during the change is being executed, the process of step S311 shown in FIG. Is executed, 1 is added to the count value of the switching effect counter. Thereby, for example, after the count value of the switching effect counter is updated from “0” to “1”, when the process of step S232 shown in FIG. The ratio determined as “medium switching effect” is 2/100 (= 1/50). Thus, every time variable display of special symbols or decorative symbols is executed until the changing switching effect is executed once when the effect corresponding to the display of the effect image indicating the character CH1 is executed. While the change effect during change is executed at a rate of 1/10, after the change effect during change is executed once and the player has not made a selection for ending the effect of 1, the special design or decoration Every time the variable display of the symbol is executed, the changing effect during change is executed at a ratio of 1/50.

  In addition, when the process of step S311 shown in FIG. 12 is executed, for example, after the count value of the switching effect counter is updated from “1” to “2”, the process of step S232 shown in FIG. 7 is executed. When this is done, the ratio at which the variable display effect type is determined to be “switching effect during change” is 1/100. In this way, when the effect corresponding to the display of the effect image indicating the character CH1 is executed and the change effect during change is executed at a ratio of 1/50, the change effect during change is executed, and the player has 1 effect. After the selection for ending is not performed, the changing switching effect is executed at a rate of 1/100 each time the variable display of the special symbol or the decorative symbol is executed.

  Displaying on the screen of the image display device 5 by decreasing the rate at which such a changing effect is performed as the number of times the changing effect is changed when the same effect is being executed. It is possible to eliminate the annoyance that the changing effect during the change is frequently executed even though the player does not desire the change of the character being changed.

  It should be noted that, when one effect of a plurality of effects is being executed, after the changing switching effect is executed once, it is not limited to one in which the ratio of executing the changing effect is changed. The ratio of executing the changing effect during change may be changed after the changing effect during change is executed a plurality of times. As an example, in the process of step S232 shown in FIG. 7, when the count value of the switching limit counter is “0”, the count value of the switching effect counter is any one from “0” to “2”. When the variable display effect type is determined to be “switching effect during change” at a ratio of 10/100 (= 1/10), and the count value of the change effect counter is any of “3” to “5” When the type of the variable display effect is determined to be “switching effect during change” at a ratio of 2/100 (= 1/50) and the count value of the change effect counter is “6”, the variable display is variable at a rate of 1/100. The type of the medium effect may be determined as “switching effect during change”. In this case, in the process of step S310 shown in FIG. 12, when the count value of the switching effect counter is “6”, it may be determined that the count value is the upper limit value. As described above, the number of executions of the changing-over switching effect as a condition for changing the ratio at which the changing-over changing effect is executed when one effect is being executed may be one or more. Times.

  When the execution of the effect corresponding to the display of the effect image indicating the character CH1 is finished and the execution is switched to the effect corresponding to the display of the effect image indicating the character CH2, the process of step S309 shown in FIG. 12 is executed. As a result, the switching effect counter is cleared and its count value is initialized to “0”. Therefore, after ending one effect among a plurality of effects and switching to another effect, the execution of special symbols and decorative symbols is performed regardless of the execution ratio of the effect before switching or the changing effect during change. The ratio at which the changing switching effect is executed every time the variable display is executed can be returned to the first ratio (for example, the ratio of 10/100 = 1/10) that is the initial state. In addition, after the change effect during change is executed a predetermined number of times (for example, once) after that, the change during change is performed at a second rate lower than the first rate (eg 2/100 = 1/50). Production can be performed.

  After ending one effect among multiple types of effects and starting execution after switching to another effect, effects before switching or after switching (characters to be displayed, etc.), or changing effects during switching before switching Depending on the execution ratio, the number of executions of variable display, and the execution status of other games and effects, it may be set such that the changing switching effect is executed at a different rate. As a specific example, after the character CH1 is changed to the character CH2, the changing switching effect is executed at the first ratio that is the initial state. On the other hand, after the character CH2 is changed to the character CH1, The changing effect during change may be executed at a second rate lower than the first rate.

  When one of the multiple types of effects is ended and the execution is switched to the other effects and the execution is started, the process of step S312 shown in FIG. A value (for example, “50” or the like) is set. Thereafter, until the count value of the switching limit counter becomes “0”, the processing of step S264 shown in FIG. 1 is subtracted. In the process of step S232 shown in FIG. 7, for example, as shown in FIG. 8, when the count value of the switching limit counter is other than “0”, the type of variable display effect is determined as “switching effect during change”. It will not be done. Therefore, after ending one effect among a plurality of effects and starting execution after switching to another effect, the changing effect during change is not executed until a specific number of variable displays such as 50 times is executed. Limits are provided. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the effects from being switched frequently, and to increase the impression level of each of the multiple types of effects.

  In consideration of the case where the player has made a selection to end one production by mistake, the selection result is confirmed after it is selected to end one production based on the switching effect during change. An effect for the purpose may be executed. As a specific example, after notifying whether or not the end of the production is canceled during the variable display executed next to the variable display selected to end one production based on the changing-over production during the change, for example, You may be made to be able to restart the 1 production | presentation completed based on the detection of the predetermined | prescribed instruction | indication input by the player, such as pressing operation with respect to the push button 31B. After selecting to end one effect based on the changing effect during changing, the changing effect during changing can be executed during the variable display of special symbols and decorative symbols until the variable display is executed a predetermined number of times. As described above, the changing effect during change may be repeatedly executed until the player switches to the desired effect.

  While the ratio of executing the changing effect during change is changed from the first ratio to the second ratio, a restriction is provided so that the changing effect during change is not executed until a specific number of variable displays are executed. Such a restriction may not be provided after the ratio of executing the changing effect during the change is changed from the second ratio to the third ratio. Or, every time variable display of a special symbol or decorative pattern is executed, regardless of the change in the ratio of executing the changing effect during changing, regardless of the number of variable displays executed after executing the changing effect during changing The changing effect during change may be executed at the rate after the change.

  In addition, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiment, and various modifications and applications are possible. For example, the pachinko gaming machine 1 does not have to include all the technical features shown in the above embodiment, and the part described in the above embodiment so as to solve at least one problem in the prior art. It may be provided with the following structure.

  As a specific example, in the above-described embodiment, when one effect of a plurality of effects is being executed, after the changing switching effect is executed once, the first lower than the first ratio. It has been described that the changing effect during change is executed at a rate of 2, and after the changing effect during change is executed once, the changing effect during change is executed at a third rate lower than the second rate. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and after the rate of executing the changing effect during change is changed to the second rate, execution of one effect is performed regardless of the number of times the changing effect during change is executed. Until the process ends, the changing switching effect may be executed at the second rate.

  In the above-described embodiment, when one effect of a plurality of effects is being executed, after the changing switching effect is executed a predetermined number of times, the effect is changing at a second rate that is lower than the first rate. It demonstrated as what performs switching production. That is, it has been described that the condition for changing the ratio of executing the changing effect during change is that the changing effect during changing is executed a predetermined number of times when one effect is executed. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the elapsed time after the ratio of executing the changing effect is set to a predetermined ratio, the number of executions of variable display, and a predetermined effect (for example, reach) different from the changing effect of changing Performance) etc., the number of times of control to the big hit gaming state, the number of detected game balls that have been driven into the game area, or a combination of these or some arbitrary execution ratio When the change condition is satisfied, the ratio of executing the changing effect during change may be changed. That is, the execution ratio of the changing effect during the change may be changed based on the establishment of the predetermined condition according to the execution state of the changing effect during the change. It may be changed on the basis.

  In the said embodiment, the production | presentation by displaying the production | presentation image which shows either of character CH1-character CH3 on the screen of the image display apparatus 5 can be performed over several variable displays, and 1 production | generation is complete | finished. When performing, it demonstrated as what switches to another production and execution is started. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and when one production ends, other productions are not executed with different production attributes (for example, different display characters, etc.) with the same production attributes (for example, character display, etc.). It may be a thing. As a specific example, when a predetermined character display is being executed, the player is able to select whether to end the execution of the character display or to execute a change display effect during change, and execute the character display. When the end is selected, the execution of the character display may be ended without switching to another character display.

  In the above-described embodiment, one effect is selected from three types of effects by displaying any one of the effect images indicating any of the characters CH1 to CH3 on the screen of the image display device 5, and the variable display is performed a plurality of times. Described as making it executable. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, one effect mode is selected from a plurality of effect modes prepared in advance in the pachinko gaming machine 1, and a plurality of predetermined effects corresponding to the selected effect mode are selected. It may be feasible over a variable display of times. More specifically, a plurality of characters are associated with one production mode in advance, and when one production mode is selected in the changing switching production or the standby switching production, the selected one production is performed. An effect in which an effect image indicating a character selected at a predetermined ratio among a plurality of characters associated with a mode is displayed on the screen of the image display device 5 may be executed. A plurality of characters associated with one production mode is one character when a predetermined character change condition such as execution of a specific production (for example, a reach production of super reach, for example) is established. The character may be changed to another character.

  When one of the multiple types of effects is executed, and when the changing change effect is executed at a second rate lower than the first rate, after the changing change effect is executed a predetermined number of times, The changing effect during change may be executed at a third rate higher than the second rate. That is, the second ratio may be set to be lower than the first ratio or the third ratio. As a result, after the same effect is continuously executed over a long period of time, the changing effect during the change is easily executed, and the frequency of prompting the player to change the effect is increased. Fatigue can be suppressed.

  In the above embodiment, in order to notify the CPU 120 for effect control of the variable pattern indicating the variable display mode such as the variable display time of the decorative symbol and the type of reach effect, one variable pattern is specified when variable display is started. Although an example in which a command is transmitted is shown, the variation pattern may be notified to the effect control CPU 120 by two or more commands. Specifically, in the case of notifying by two commands, the gaming control microcomputer 100 uses the first command as a first command before reaching reach, such as the presence or absence of variable display effects such as “slip” and “pseudo-continuous” (reach) If not, a command indicating the variable display time and variable display mode of the so-called second stop) is transmitted, and the second command is reached, such as the type of reach and the presence / absence of a re-lottery effect. You may make it transmit the command which shows variable display time after that (after what is called a 2nd stop when not reaching, and a variable display mode). In this case, the effect control CPU 120 may perform effect control in variable display based on the variable display time derived from the two commands. In the game control microcomputer 100, the variable display time is notified by each of the two commands, and a specific variable display mode executed at each timing is selected by the effect control CPU 120. It may be. When sending two commands, the two commands may be transmitted within the same timer interrupt, or after a predetermined time has elapsed after the first command is transmitted (for example, in the next timer interrupt). ) A second command may be transmitted. In addition, the variable display mode indicated by each command is not limited to this example, and the order of transmission can be changed as appropriate. In this way, by notifying the variation pattern by two or more commands, it is possible to reduce the amount of data to be stored and prepared in advance as the variation pattern designation command.

  In addition, various effects including the device configuration and data configuration of the gaming machine, the processing shown in the flowchart, the image display operation of the image display device, the sound output operation of the speaker, and the lighting operation of the game effect lamp and decoration LED The operation and the like can be arbitrarily changed and modified without departing from the spirit of the present invention. In addition, the gaming machine of the present invention is not limited to a payout type gaming machine that pays out a predetermined number of gaming media as prizes based on the occurrence of winnings, and is scored based on the occurrence of winnings by enclosing gaming media It can also be applied to an enclosed game machine that gives

  The program and data for realizing the present invention are not limited to a form distributed and provided by a detachable recording medium to a computer device included in a gaming machine such as the pachinko gaming machine 1, for example. Alternatively, it may be distributed in a pre-installed manner in a storage device such as a computer device. Furthermore, the program and data for realizing the present invention are distributed by downloading from other devices on a network connected via a communication line or the like by providing a communication processing unit. It doesn't matter.

  The game execution mode is not only executed by attaching a detachable recording medium, but can also be executed by temporarily storing a program and data downloaded via a communication line or the like in an internal memory or the like. It is also possible to execute directly using hardware resources on the other device side on a network connected via a communication line or the like. Furthermore, the game can be executed by exchanging data with other computer devices or the like via a network.

  As described above, in the embodiment described above, when one effect is being executed among a plurality of types of effects, such as an effect corresponding to the display of the effect image indicating the character CH1, for example, the changing effect during the change is executed. If the count value of the switching effect counter that counts the number of times is “0”, the changing effect is changing at a rate of 10/100 (= 1/10) as shown in FIG. 8 in the process of step S232 shown in FIG. It is decided to execute. On the other hand, after the count effect of the switching effect counter becomes “1” due to the fact that the changing effect during change is executed once when the effect of 1 is being executed, the count value is “0”. It is decided to execute the changing effect during the change at a rate of 2/100 (= 1/50) lower than the time. This prevents the annoying nature of the changing effect during the change, such as when the changing effect during the change is frequently executed even though the player does not want to end one effect. It is possible to select a production reflecting the player's intention, and to improve the interest of the game.

  For example, by the player's selection based on the switching effect during change, the execution is switched from the effect corresponding to the display of the effect image indicating the character CH1 to the effect corresponding to the display of the effect image indicating the character CH2. Thereby, for example, it is possible to select various effects reflecting the player's intention, such as effects corresponding to the character selected from the characters CH1 to CH3, and the interest of the game can be improved.

  When one effect is ended and the other effect is switched by the player's selection based on the changing effect during the change, for example, the switching effect counter is cleared and the count value is set to “0” in the process of step S309 shown in FIG. By initializing, the ratio at which the changing effect during change is executed can be returned to the first ratio. In this way, after switching to another effect, the changing effect during change is executed at the first rate, so that it is possible to appropriately select the effect reflecting the player's intention to switch the effect. .

  For example, the count value of the switching effect counter is “2” because the changing effect of the changing effect is executed once at a second rate lower than the first rate corresponding to the count value of the switching effect counter “1”. After that, in the process of step S232 shown in FIG. 7, the changing effect during change is executed at a rate of 1/100 lower than when the count value of the change effect counter as shown in FIG. 8 is “1”. Decided to do. As a result, it is possible to appropriately select an effect reflecting the player's intention to continue the current effect.

  For example, after the demonstration display start waiting time has elapsed in the process of step S207 shown in FIG. 6, after the variable display of the special symbol or decorative pattern is not executed for a predetermined period, the switching effect is performed in the process of step S214. For example, by clearing the counter and initializing the count value to “0”, the ratio at which the changing effect is changed can be returned to the first ratio. As described above, when the predetermined period has passed without the variable display being performed, it is determined that the player is likely to be changed, and the changing switching effect is executed at the rate in the initial state. To do. Thereby, when a player changes, it can suppress that the change effect during a change is not performed over a long period of time, and can select an effect suitably reflecting a player's intention.

  For example, in the process of step S232 shown in FIG. 7, the notice effect is executed by selectively determining the type of effect during variable display from “switching effect during change” or “notice effect” as shown in FIG. When a change is made, a restriction is provided so that the changing effect during change is not executed. By providing such a restriction, it is possible to appropriately select an effect while preventing the player's attention to the notice effect from being hindered.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Pachinko machine 2 ... Game board 3 ... Gaming machine frame 4A, 4B ... Special symbol display device 5 ... Image display device 6A ... Ordinary winning ball device 6B ... Ordinary variable winning ball device 7 ... Special variable winning ball device 8L, 8R ... Speaker 9 ... Game effect lamp 11 ... Main board 12 ... Production control board 13 ... Audio control board 14 ... Lamp control board 15 ... Relay board 20 ... Normal symbol display 21 ... Gate switch 22A, 22B ... Start-up switch 23 ... Count switch 31A ... Stick controller 31B ... Push button 35A ... Controller sensor unit 35B ... Push sensor 100 ... Game control microcomputers 101, 121 ... ROM
102, 122 ... RAM
103 ... CPU
104, 124 ... random number circuit 105, 125 ... I / O
120 ... CPU for effect control
123 ... Display control unit

Claims (1)

A gaming machine that performs variable display and can be controlled to an advantageous state advantageous to the player,
An effect execution means capable of executing an effect over a plurality of variable displays in one effect mode among a plurality of types of effect modes,
The production execution means
A selection effect execution means for executing a selection effect that allows the player to select whether or not to end the execution of the effect according to the one effect mode when the effect is being executed in the one effect mode;
The selection effect is an effect that allows selection of whether to continue the first effect mode or to switch to another effect mode different from the first effect mode.
When the selection effect execution means is executing the effect according to the first effect mode, the execution ratio of the selection effect is the first ratio and the selection effect is executed until the selection effect is executed a predetermined number of times. After performing the production a predetermined number of times, the execution rate of the selection production is a second rate lower than the first rate,
A gaming machine characterized by that.