JP2017086101A - Pinball game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a pinball game machine capable of preventing technical intervention related to a normal variable winning device.SOLUTION: Until a prescribed determinate display time elapses after terminating a variable display of normal symbols, in a case where normal symbols corresponding to a lottery result are stationarily displayed, when it is drawn by an auxiliary winning lottery not to execute the auxiliary winning game, the pinball game machine sets a prescribed stationary display time (e.g., 500 ms) as the determinate display time; however, when it is drawn to execute the auxiliary winning device, sets a time substantially shorter than the prescribed stationary display time or zero as the determination display time.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 34

Description

  The present invention relates to game operation control of a ball game machine.

  Conventionally, the ball ball game machine has a lottery for winning that is advantageous to the player at the start of the game (winning) at the starting port, and a special symbol variation display game is executed, and the symbol variation display game is being executed. Is configured to generate a variety of notice effects reflecting the lottery results, thereby enjoying the game.

  This type of ball game machine has a winning rate variation type winning device (ordinary variable winning) having an opening / closing means (for example, an opening / closing member operated by an electric accessory) that can open or expand the winning area of the starting opening. A device equipped with a device is the mainstream. Opening / closing means of this winning device wins a “winning lottery” that is executed when a specific winning opening formed separately from the starting opening is won (entered) or passed through a specific gate. In this case, it is configured to operate in a predetermined release pattern. When the above-mentioned lottery per assistance is executed, a symbol variation display game (ordinary symbol variation display game) different from the special symbol variation display game is executed in order to derive and display the lottery result, and the display result is displayed for a predetermined time. After that (for example, after 500 ms), the opening / closing means operates (for example, Patent Document 1 below). Also, in a ball game machine equipped with a winning device as described above, when a specific gaming state such as a short-time state or a probable change state is reached, the winning probability per assistance is controlled with a higher probability than the normal gaming state, and the opening / closing means is normally In general, the game is controlled to a high base game state called a “electric chew support state” in which an operation is performed in an open pattern more advantageous than the game state.

Japanese Patent Application No. 2015-011888

  By the way, in the above-mentioned electric chew support state, the opening / closing means operates with a high probability and operates in an advantageous opening pattern, so for players who are familiar with the flow of the normal symbol variation display game, Doing a so-called “stop-attack” game technique that aims to reduce the useless ball by aiming at the opening timing of the start opening and increase the earned profit by winning a prize by winning the start opening, while familiar with such a game technique For players who do not, it is the actual situation that they simply keep firing the game ball without stopping. Such technical intervention by “stopping action” causes a difference in profits earned among players, resulting in inequality.

  SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An object of the present invention is to provide a ball game machine that can suppress technical intervention related to a normally variable winning device.

  The above object of the present invention is achieved by the following means. The parentheses indicate corresponding elements in the embodiment, but the present invention is not limited to this.

(1) An easy-to-win state that makes it easy for a game ball to enter the special symbol starting means (lower start port 35, lower start port sensor 35a), and a difficult-to-win state that makes it difficult or impossible to enter a game ball Variable winning means (ordinary variable winning device 41) configured to be convertible to
A winning lottery means (S409 in FIG. 19) for executing a winning lottery regarding whether or not to execute a winning game when the special symbol starting means detects a game ball;
A special symbol display means (special symbol display devices 38a, 38b) for executing a special symbol variable display operation and stopping and displaying the special symbol in a display mode according to the lottery result by the winning lottery means;
Special symbol display control means (S059 in FIG. 7, S306 to S308 in FIG. 16) for controlling the variable symbol display operation in the special symbol display means;
Special game execution control means (S060 in FIG. 7) for controlling execution of the winning game after a predetermined winning symbol is stopped and displayed on the special symbol display means;
When the normal symbol starting means (the normal symbol starting port 37, the normal symbol starting port sensor 37a) detects the game ball, the auxiliary winning game for changing the variable winning means from the difficult to win state to the easily winning state is made. An auxiliary per lottery means (S629 in FIG. 10) for executing an auxiliary per lottery regarding whether or not to execute;
A normal symbol display means (normal symbol display device 39) for executing a normal symbol variation display operation and stopping and displaying the normal symbol in a display mode according to the lottery result by the auxiliary per lottery means;
Normal symbol display control means (S057 in FIG. 7, S606 to S608 in FIG. 8) for controlling the fluctuation display operation of the normal symbol in the normal symbol display means;
Auxiliary game execution control means (S058 in FIG. 7) for controlling execution of the auxiliary hit game after a predetermined auxiliary hit symbol is stopped and displayed on the normal symbol display means;
In a ball game machine equipped with
The normal symbol display control means includes:
After the normal symbol variation display is completed, the fixed display time setting means (S652 to S654 in FIG. 12, FIG. 30 to FIG. 30) for setting a fixed display time for stopping the normal symbol on the normal symbol display means. FIG. 33)
Normal symbol stop display means (S657 in FIG. 12) for stopping and displaying the normal symbol on the normal symbol display means until the fixed display time set by the fixed display time determination means elapses,
The fixed display time setting means includes
If the auxiliary per lottery means does not execute the per-assistance game, a predetermined stop display time is set as the fixed display time,
When the auxiliary per lottery means is selected to execute the per-assistance game, a time sufficiently shorter than the predetermined stop display time or zero is set as the fixed display time (S653 in FIG. 12, FIG. 30). ),
A ball game machine characterized by that.

(2) When the winning game is finished, the bonus game state (high game state) with a normal symbol high probability state in which the auxiliary per lottery means the lottery means the lottery with a higher probability than the predetermined probability of the normal game state. A bonus game control means for generating a base game state),
The fixed display time setting means includes
In the case where the lottery means for assistance is executed by the lottery means for assistance during the bonus game state, a lot time shorter than the predetermined stop display time or zero is set as the fixed display time (see FIG. 14). S653A, FIG. 32)
The bullet ball game machine according to (1) above, wherein

  According to the present invention, it is possible to suppress technical intervention related to the normal variation winning device.

It is a perspective view of the front side which shows the external appearance of the bullet ball game machine which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the front side of the game board of the ball game machine which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the control apparatus of the ball game machine which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing with which it uses for description of the game state transition of the ball game machine which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing with which it uses for description of the screen display of the liquid crystal display device which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the main control side main process which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the main control side timer interruption process which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the normal symbol management process in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the normal symbol starting port check process in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the normal symbol fluctuation | variation start process in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the process during normal symbol fluctuation | variation in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the normal symbol fluctuation stop setting process in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the process during the normal symbol confirmation time in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the normal symbol fluctuation | variation stop time setting process which concerns on the modification (3rd Embodiment) of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the normal electric accessory management process in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol management process in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the special figure 1 starting port check process in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the special figure 2 starting port check process in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol change start process in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the game state transfer preparation process in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol change process in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the first half part of the process during the special symbol confirmation time in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the latter half part of the process during the special symbol confirmation time in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the special electric accessory management process in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the production control side main process which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the command reception interruption process which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the production control side timer interruption process which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the game state transfer table selection table which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the game state transfer table which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the normal symbol fluctuation pattern distribution table which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the normal symbol fixed display time determination table 1 which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the normal symbol fixed display time determination table 2 which concerns on the modification (2nd Embodiment) of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the normal symbol fixed display time determination table 3 which concerns on the modification (3rd Embodiment) of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the normal symbol fixed display time determination table 4 which concerns on the modification (4th Embodiment) of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a time chart which shows the time change of the fluctuation | variation operation | movement of the normal symbol which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention, and the operation | movement (opening / closing operation | movement of a lower start port) of a normal fluctuation winning device.

  Hereinafter, a preferred embodiment of a gaming machine according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the embodiment described below, a pachinko gaming machine will be described as an example of a ball game machine according to the present invention.

[First Embodiment]
<1. Outline of Configuration: FIGS. 1 and 2>
With reference to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the outline | summary of a structure of the pachinko game machine which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention is demonstrated. FIG. 1 is a front perspective view showing the appearance of a pachinko gaming machine according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is a view showing the front side of the game board.

  First, with reference to FIG. 1, the structure of the front side of the pachinko gaming machine 1 will be described. The pachinko gaming machine 1 shown in FIG. 1 has a frame-shaped front frame 2 attached to the front surface of a wooden outer frame 4 so that it can be opened and closed, and a game is stored in a game board storage frame (not shown) attached to the back surface of the front frame 2. A board 3 (see FIG. 2) is mounted, and the game area 3a formed on the surface of the game board 3 is faced to the opening of the front frame 2. A glass door 6 supporting a transparent glass is provided on the front side of the game area 3a.

  A key cylinder (not shown) for unlocking the door is provided on the front side of the glass door 6. When the key is inserted into this key cylinder and operated on one side, the glass door 6 is locked to the front frame 2. When operated to the other side, the locked state of the front frame 2 with respect to the outer frame 4 can be released and opened to the front side.

  A front operation panel 7 pivotally supported on the front frame 2 by a hinge (not shown) is disposed below the glass door 6. The front operation panel 7 is provided with an upper tray unit 8, and the upper tray unit 8 is formed with an upper tray 9 for storing discharged game balls.

  The upper tray unit 8 includes a ball removal button 14 for removing the game balls stored in the upper tray 9 below the pachinko gaming machine 1, and a game ball lending device (not shown) on the pachinko hall island facility side. On the other hand, a ball lending button 11 for requesting payout of a game ball and a card return button 12 for requesting return of a valuable medium inserted in the game ball lending device are provided.

  In addition, the upper tray unit 8 is configured so that a player can operate it, and the “frame effect button 13 (used to bring about a change in a specific effect (for example, player participation type effect)) before and after the operation. The operation means for production) ”is provided. For example, when a specific effect occurs, the frame effect button 13 is operable (input reception is possible) when the built-in lamp is lit during a predetermined input reception period, and when the built-in lamp is lit (input reception period). It works as “production operation means” for changing the production by pressing the middle button. In addition, examples of the operation means for production include a button type, a jog dial type, a touch sensor type using a non-contact type sensor, and a touch panel type operation means using a liquid crystal display device. However, there is no particular limitation as long as it can be used to give some kind of change to the effect when the player performs an operation (change the effect before and after the operation). Further, the type and the number of installed operation means for production are not particularly limited.

  A firing operation handle 15 for operating the firing device 32 (see FIG. 3) is provided on the right end side of the front operation panel 7. Speakers 46 that produce sound effects (sound effects) by sound are provided on both sides of the upper part of the front frame 2 and above the firing operation handle 15. A plurality of decorative lamps 45 (full color LEDs) that provide a light effect by decoration of light are provided at appropriate positions on the glass door 6.

(Game board: Fig. 2)
Next, the configuration of the game board 3 will be described with reference to FIG. The game board 3 shown in FIG. 2 is mainly composed of a substantially square wooden plywood or resin board. As shown in the figure, the game board 3 is provided with a ball guide rail 5 that guides the launched game ball in a ring shape as a board surface partition member, and a substantially circular region surrounded by the ball guide rail 5 is formed. It is a game area 3a, and the four corners are non-game areas.

  In the substantially central portion of the game area 3a, for example, in three (left, middle, right) display areas (design variation display areas), a plurality of types of decorative symbols (for example, numbers, characters, symbols, etc.) A liquid crystal display device 36 (LCD: Liquid Crystal Display) is provided that is capable of variable display and stop display of the left symbol (corresponding to the left display area), middle symbol (corresponding to the middle display area), and right symbol (corresponding to the right display area). It has been. The liquid crystal display device 36 displays various effects as images under the control of an effect control unit 24 described later.

  Further, a center decoration 48 is provided in the game area 3a so as to surround the display surface of the liquid crystal display device 36 in a distant manner. The center decoration 48 protects the display surface of the liquid crystal display device 36 from surrounding game balls, and is a member that enables the flow path of game balls to be distributed to the left and right according to the strength or stroke length of the game balls. A flow path distributing means), which is arranged at a substantially central portion of the game area 3a so that a game ball flow path is formed on both upper sides (left side and right side) of the game area 3a by the presence of the center decoration 48. ing. However, in the case of this embodiment, the center ornament 48 has a shape bulging slightly to the right.

  The center decoration 48 is provided along the front side of the game board 3 and forms a front mounting plate 48a that is fixed to the game board 3 by a fixing screw or the like, and forms an outer periphery of the center decoration 48, and is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 36. An armor frame portion 48b surrounding the screen is integrally provided. The armor frame portion 48b protrudes substantially from the front mounting plate 48a to the front side, and prevents the game ball from entering the inside, that is, the liquid crystal display device 36 side. A play area through which a game ball can pass is formed between the upper surface of the center ornament 48 and the ball guide rail 5, and the game ball is guided to the right side. The game balls driven into the upper side of the game area 3a by the launching device 32 are distributed to the left and right on the upper side of the armor frame portion 48b, and the left down flow path 3b on the left side of the center ornament 48 and the right down flow path 3c on the right side. Flow down either. Such a center ornament 48 functions as a game ball drop direction changing member (drop direction changing means) that changes the fall direction of the game ball.

  Although not shown in the figure, the center decoration 48 is provided with a game ball that is entered from a entrance (not shown) provided on the left side of the armor frame 48b at the front lower portion of the liquid crystal display device 36 in the horizontal direction. The stage is provided so that it can freely roll and drop from the center in the left-right direction (starting port guide path) or from both the left and right sides. Further, the center decoration 48 is provided with a plurality of decorative lamps with full-color LEDs that provide a light effect at appropriate positions.

<Moving object>
In the area of the game board, a plurality of movable objects that provide visual effects are arranged at positions that do not obstruct the flow of the game ball. In this example, the first movable body accessory (clock-type accessory 80) is disposed at the upper right side in the center ornament 48, that is, at a position that does not obstruct the flow of the game ball passing through the right flow path 3c. On the side, a second movable body accessory (flower type accessory 98) is disposed.

(First movable body accessory 80)
The first movable body accessory includes a clock panel (numerical display unit) 80a composed of a numerical display unit divided into twelve numerical sectors with numerals of Roman letters “I” to “XII”, and this clock. It has a clock hand 97 composed of a short hand and a long hand that can rotate on the board 80a and indicate the hour and minute as required, and is configured as a clock-type accessory 80 as a whole. The clock panel 80a has a full color LED on the back side or inside for each sector partition location (the number sector from Roman letters “I” to “XII”) indicated by the short hand, or the number sector itself is composed of a full color LED. The number sectors marked with the Roman letters “I” to “XII” can individually emit light in different colors.

  The timepiece-type accessory 80 functions as a “main actor” that operates under predetermined conditions in the case of a big hit or a loss. This clock-type accessory 80 is a hit to the player by the action of the clock hands 97 of the clock-type accessory 80 and / or the number sector of the clock panel 80a being colored with a predetermined “color and number”. It works to show the winning expectation of. For example, the clock hands 97 are configured such that the winning expectation increases in the order of their rotation speeds, for example, “non-rotation, low-speed rotation, high-speed rotation”, and regarding the clock panel portion 80a, the light emission of the LEDs of the number sectors. The winning expectation can be configured in the order of white (normal color), blue, yellow, green, red, and rainbow colors. Further, the expected winning degree can be notified by the combination of the rotation speed of the clock hands 97 and the light emission color of the LED of the number sector in the timepiece panel (number display section) 80a. For example, the number of winning colors increases in the order of white, blue, yellow, green, red, and rainbow colors in the number sector LEDs. For example, the winning expectation is increased (in the order of non-rotation / blue, low-speed rotation / blue, high-speed rotation / blue).

  In the present embodiment, the clock hand 97 of the clock-type accessory 80 continues to rotate at a low speed or at a high speed for a predetermined period during the symbol variation display game. However, the clock hand 97 stops during the period. The winning expectation may be indicated by the number of the number sector indicated by the short hand of the stopped clock hand 97, or by the number and the color of the number sector to be colored. Further, when the emission color of the LED of the number sector in the clock panel 80a emits in rainbow color (premium color), it is possible to notify that the big hit is confirmed (correct).

(Second movable body accessory 98)
The second movable body accessory is a flower shape in which a flower crown is arranged around a flower heart and a flower cover is doubled by arranging a bud on the outer periphery. It consists of an accessory 98. This flower-shaped accessory 98 works as a “sub-composite” that operates under predetermined conditions based on the big hit lottery result. The flower-shaped accessory 98 has a translucent floral heart and petal portion illuminated from behind by a lamp or a full-color LED to be beautifully colored, and each time only the petal portion or the floral heart and petal portion operates in a predetermined operation pattern. (For example, movements that move back and forth, right and left, up and down, or circumferentially and return to the original (inching), vibration movement, etc.), and the expected winning degree can be notified by these actions.

  In addition, the non-game area near the upper right edge (upper right corner) of the game board 3 is a function display section, and a 7-segment display (with dots) is started with the upper start port 34 (for the first special symbol) and the lower start. A special symbol display device 38a (first special symbol display means) and a special symbol display device 38b (second special symbol display means) which are arranged side by side in correspondence with the mouth 35 (for the second special symbol). Is provided. In the special symbol display devices 38a and 38b, the special symbol variation display game is executed by the variation display operation of “special symbol” expressed by 7 segments (variation display operation in which variation start and variation stop are set as one set). It has become. The liquid crystal display device 36 is a device that displays a decorative symbol by image in a synchronized manner in time with the special symbol variation display by the special symbol display devices 38a and 38b. ) And a decorative symbol variation display game are executed (details of these symbol variation display games will be described later).

  The various function display units are provided with a normal symbol display device 39 (normal symbol display means) in which a plurality of (two in this embodiment) LEDs are arranged. In this normal symbol display device 39, a normal symbol variation display game based on a normal symbol variation display operation expressed by two LEDs (for example, LED lighting when the display is stopped and repeatedly turned on and off alternately in a seesaw manner) The status is notified according to the state).

  In addition, although not shown in the drawings, each function display unit is provided with a composite display device (LED display for holding composite display) composed of a 7-segment display (with dots). The combination was called the display of the number of balls with special action 1, the number of balls with special action 2, the number of balls with special action 2, the variable time shortening function is active (short time), and the high probability state (high probability) This is because it is an on-hold / short-time / high-accuracy composite display device (hereinafter simply referred to as “composite display device”) having five display functions called status notification. The various function display units are provided with a round number display device (round notification LED) including a plurality of LEDs. This number-of-rounds display device functions as a “specified number of rounds notification means” for notifying a specified number of rounds related to a big hit (details of “big hit” will be described later). For example, a combination of lighting / extinguishing states of three LEDs The specified number of rounds is notified.

  Below the center decoration 48, an upper start port 34 (first special symbol start port: first starter) and a lower start port 35 (second special symbol starter: second starter) are provided. The normal variation winning device 41 is provided at the top and bottom, and detection sensors 34a and 35a (upper start opening sensor 34a and lower start opening sensor 35a: see FIG. 3) for detecting the passage of the game ball are formed inside each. ing.

  The upper start port 34 which is the first special symbol start port is a first special symbol (hereinafter referred to as “special symbol 1”) in the special symbol display device 38a (first special symbol display device). This is a prize winning opening related to the starting condition of the variable display operation of the variable display operation in some cases, which is abbreviated as “Special Figure 1”, and does not have a starting opening / closing means (means for opening or expanding the starting opening). It is configured as a winning device. In the present embodiment, a game ball dropping direction changing member (for example, a game nail (not shown), a windmill 44, a center decoration 48, etc.) in the game area 3a is operated to the upper start port 34 to the left-down flow path 3b. The game balls that have flowed down the game are easy to win, whereas the game balls that have flowed down the right flow path 3c have a configuration that makes it difficult or impossible to win.

  The normal variation winning device 41 is configured as a winning rate variation type winning device that can vary the winning rate of the game ball at the starting port by means of the starting port opening / closing means, and specifically, a second special symbol starting port. A certain lower starting port 35 is configured as a so-called “electric tulip type” winning device that includes a pair of left and right movable blades (movable members) 47 that can be opened or enlarged. The lower start opening 35 of the normal variable winning device 41 is referred to as a second special symbol (hereinafter referred to as “special symbol 2”) in the special symbol display device 38b (second special symbol display device). The award area relating to the start condition of the variable display operation of the variable display operation of the lower start opening 35 is determined according to the operating state (operating or non-operating) of the movable blade piece 47. It is converted into an open state (easy winning state) that facilitates winning and a closed state (difficulty state that makes winning difficult) or impossible to win than the open state. In the present embodiment, when the movable blade piece 47 is inactive, a closed state (a state in which a prize cannot be awarded) in which a prize cannot be awarded to the lower start port 35 is maintained.

  Below the normal variable winning device 41 (lower start opening 35), a special variable winning device 42 (first first prize winning device 42) configured such that the lower large winning port 40 (first large winning port) can be opened or expanded by the open door 42b. A special variable winning device) is provided, and a lower large winning opening sensor 42a (see FIG. 3) for detecting a game ball is formed therein.

  Further, on both sides of the normal variable winning device 41, there are four general winning openings 43 on the left side and one on the right side, four in total. A mouth sensor 43a (see FIG. 3) is formed.

  Further, a normal symbol start opening 37 including a passing gate (specific passing area) through which a game ball can pass is provided diagonally right above the normal variation winning device 41, that is, above the middle portion of the right flow path 3c. . The normal symbol start port 37 (third starter) is a winning port related to the normal symbol variation display operation in the normal symbol display device 39, and a normal symbol start port for detecting a passing game ball is provided therein. A sensor 37a (see FIG. 3) is formed. In the present embodiment, the normal symbol start port 37 is formed only on the right flow path 3c side, and is not formed on the left flow path 3b side. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and it may be formed only in the left flow path 3b, or may be formed in each of both flow paths.

  In the middle of the path from the normal symbol starting port 37 to the normal variable winning device 41 in the right flow down path 3c, the right big winning port 50 (second big winning port) is opened by the retractable opening door 52b. A special variable winning device 52 (second special variable winning device) configured to be expandable is provided, and a right big prize opening sensor 52a for detecting a game ball that has entered the right big prize opening 50 is provided therein. (See FIG. 3).

  Around the right big prize opening 50 is a bulging portion (decorative member) 55 bulging from the surface of the game board 3, and the upper side 55a of the bulging portion 55 forms the downstream guide portion of the right flow path 3c. ing. And if the right big prize opening 50 is closed by the open door 52b (large prize opening closed state), the downstream guide part of the right flow path 3c is formed by forming a surface continuous with the upper side 55a of the bulging part 55. A part of (upper side 55a) is formed. Further, in the downstream area of the right flow path 3c, the flow path correction is made almost parallel to the flow direction of the game ball in the area above the upper side 55a of the bulging portion 55, more precisely, in the game area above the right big prize opening 50. A board 51 d is provided so as to work to bring the game ball flowing down toward the right big prize opening 50.

  The process of entering a game ball into the right grand prize opening 50 is as follows. The game ball that has passed through the play area between the upper surface of the center ornament 48 and the ball guide rail 5 projects on the top surface (upper side) 55a of the bulging portion 55 that protrudes from the game board 3 and functions as a guide for the game ball. Come down along. Then, the game ball comes into contact with the right end of the flow path correcting plate 51d protruding from the surface of the game board 3, so that the flow direction of the game ball is corrected to the direction of the right big winning opening 50 (downward). . At this time, if the right big prize opening 50 is covered with the retractable open door 52b (the big prize opening closed state), the game ball rolls over the predetermined arrangement (not shown). Are guided in the direction of the tulip-type normal variable winning device 41 (lower start opening 35) and the special variable winning device 42 (lower large winning port 40). At this time, if the lower start opening 35 or the lower large winning opening 40 is in a winable state (open state), a game ball can win the winning opening. On the other hand, if the open door 52b is retracted into the game board surface and the right big prize opening 50 is open (right big prize opening state), the game ball is guided into the right big prize opening 50.

  In the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment, when the player aims the launch position on the special variable prize winning device 52 side (when the game ball is aimed so as to pass through the right flow path 3c), the upper start is performed. The game ball is difficult to be guided to the mouth 34 side or is not guided. Therefore, if the right big prize opening 50 is in the closed state, it is difficult or impossible to win the start openings 34 and 35 unless the movable wing piece 47 of the normal variation prize winning device 41 operates. .

  When the winning means described above belong to which of the left and right flow paths, that is, whether the game ball flowing down the left flow path 3b or the right flow path 3c can be won, the winning means belonging to the left flow path 3b The upper start opening 34, the lower start opening 35, the lower large prize opening 40, and the three general winning openings 43 on the left side include the upper start opening 34, the lower start opening, and the winning means belonging to the right flow path 3c. 35, a normal symbol start opening 37, a right large winning opening 50, a lower large winning opening 40, and one general winning opening 43 on the right side.

  As long as the lower start port 35 is in a state in which the movable blade piece 47 is open (start port open state), it belongs to both the left flow down route 3b and the right flow down route 3c, and a prize can be won from either the left or right flow down route. It has become. However, since the movable wing piece 47 of the lower start opening 35 has the operating condition for the passage (winning) of the game ball to the normal symbol start opening 37 located on the right side of the game area 3a, it is substantially the right flow It can be said that it belongs only to the path 3c.

  In addition, the upper start port 34 belongs to the left flow path 3b or only the left flow path 3b, and it is difficult or impossible to win a game ball from the right flow path 3c. That is, the arrangement of the game nail and other game parts in the game area 3a is the same as that of the game ball that has flowed down the left flow path 3b (including the game ball that has passed through the stage of the center decoration 48). However, the game balls that have flowed down the right flow path 3c are arranged so as to form a guide path that makes it difficult or impossible to guide the game ball to the upper start opening 34.

  Further, the lower large winning opening 40 belongs to both the left flow down path 3b and the right flow down path 3c, and it is possible to win from any of the left and right flow down paths. However, the right big winning opening 50 belongs only to the left flow path 3b, and only a game ball from the right flow path 3c can win.

  Each winning opening such as the upper starting opening 34, the lower starting opening 35, the normal symbol starting opening 37, the lower large winning opening 40, the right large winning opening 50, or the general winning opening 43 is arranged in the game area 3a. It functions as a winning means, and also detects the upper starting opening sensor 34a, the lower starting opening sensor 35a, the normal symbol starting opening sensor 37a, the lower large winning prize right sensor 42a, the right large winning opening sensor 52a, the general winning opening sensor 43a, etc. The switch (winning detection switch) functions as a winning detection means for detecting a game ball that has entered the winning means. The winning detection switch can be constituted by a non-contact switch such as a photo switch or a proximity switch, or a contact switch such as a micro switch.

  In the pachinko gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, among the various winning holes provided in the gaming area 3a, if there is a winning in a winning opening other than the normal symbol start opening 37, it is promised for each winning opening. The number of winning balls per winning ball (for example, 3 for the upper start opening 34 or the lower starting opening 35, 15 for the large winning opening 40, 10 for the general winning opening 43) is the game ball payout device 19 (see FIG. 3)). Note that the game balls that have not won each winning opening are discharged from the gaming area 3 a through the out opening 49. Here, “winning” is not a structure in which a winning opening takes a game ball inside, or a winning opening takes a game ball inside, but a winning opening made of a pass-through gate (for example, a normal symbol start opening 37). If the game ball is detected by each winning detection switch formed for each winning slot, a winning prize is displayed at the winning slot. It is treated as having occurred. The game ball related to the winning is also referred to as “winning ball”.

<2. Control device: Fig. 3>
Next, with reference to FIG. 3, a control device that controls the game operation control of the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 3 is a control block diagram showing an outline of the control device.

  The control device of the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment receives an effect control command from the main control unit (main control board) 20 and the main control unit 20 that is responsible for overall game operation control, and receives images, light, and sound. A production control unit (production control board, liquid crystal control board) 24 for overall control of production operation control (production appearance control for production means), a payout control board 29 for performing prize ball payout control, and an external power supply ( A power supply control board (not shown) that generates and supplies power necessary for the gaming machine from a not-shown machine is mainly configured. In addition, a liquid crystal display device 36 as an image display device is connected to the effect control unit 24. In FIG. 3, the power supply route is omitted.

(2-1. Main control unit 20)
The main control unit 20 is equipped with a microprocessor incorporating a CPU 201 (main control CPU), a ROM 202 (main control ROM), and a RAM 203 (main control RAM). As a whole, a microcomputer (equivalent to a Z80 system) ).

  The CPU 201 is a CPU of Z80 (manufactured by Zylog Corporation or an equivalent thereof). Z80 is a CPU with a data bus of 8 bits and an address bus of 16 bits, but does not require a large memory space, and it is ideal for controlling pachinko machines that do not require high-speed processing or complicated numerical operation processing. It is. The CPU 201 also includes a plurality of types of registers for reading and writing data necessary for executing processing.

  The ROM 202 functions as storage means (main control side storage means) for storing game data related to game operation control, and stores various data necessary for game operation control in addition to a control program describing a game operation control procedure. ing. The RAM 203 functions as a work area and a buffer memory, and data necessary for the progress of the game is stored and used according to the processing state. The RAM 203 functions as a random number counter used for a predetermined lottery (for example, a variation pattern lottery related to a special symbol), and functions as a random number generation unit that generates random numbers in software.

  Although not shown in the figure, the main control unit 20 provides a CTC (Counter Timer Circuit), which gives a periodic interrupt, a pulse output generation function (bit rate generator) and a time measurement function to the Z80 system, and a CPU. It also has an interrupt controller circuit, a counter circuit, etc. that exhibit an interrupt function (including an interrupt prohibition function) such as a timer interrupt that gives an interrupt signal. The counter circuit includes a random number generation circuit that generates a random number within a certain range in hardware, and a sampling circuit that samples a random value from the random number generation circuit at a predetermined timing, and as a whole a 16-bit counter work. The CPU 201 sends an instruction to the sampling circuit according to the processing state, thereby obtaining the numerical value indicated by the random number generation circuit as an internal lottery random value (random number size: 65536), and winning the random value Use for lottery.

  The main control unit 20 detects the passage of the upper start opening 34a for detecting the winning to the upper start opening 34, the lower start opening sensor 35a for detecting the winning to the lower start opening 35, and the normal symbol start opening 37. A normal symbol start opening sensor 37a, a lower large winning opening sensor 42a for detecting a winning at the lower large winning opening 40, a right large winning opening sensor 52a for detecting a winning at the right large winning opening 50, and a general winning opening 43. A general prize opening sensor 43a for detecting a winning in the game, a fraud detection sensor 99 (for example, a vibration sensor (vibration detection means), a magnetic sensor (magnetic detection means) ), A radio wave sensor (radio wave detection means), etc.) are connected, and the main control unit 20 can receive detection signals from these.

  The main control unit 20 also includes a normal electric accessory solenoid 41c for controlling the opening and closing of the movable wing piece 47 of the lower start opening 35 and a large winning opening solenoid for controlling the opening and closing of the open door 42b of the lower large winning opening 40. 42c and a large winning opening solenoid 52c for controlling opening / closing of the open door 52b of the right large winning opening 50 are connected, and the main control unit 20 can transmit a control signal for controlling them.

  The main control unit 20 is connected to a special symbol display device 38a and a special symbol display device 38b, and the main control unit 20 can transmit a control signal for display control of the special symbol. The main control unit 20 is connected to a normal symbol display device 39, and can transmit a control signal for display control of the normal symbol.

  In addition, a composite display device (not shown) is connected to the main control unit 20, and the main control unit 20 can transmit a control signal for display control of various information displayed on the main display unit. In addition, a round number display device is connected to the main control unit 20, and the main control unit 20 can transmit a control signal for display control of a specified number of rounds by jackpot.

  Also, the main control unit 20 is connected to a frame external concentration terminal board 21, and the main control unit 20 provides information on the game progress (for example, jackpot winning information, prize ball number information, symbol variation display game execution number information, etc.). Can be transmitted to the hall computer HC via the frame external concentration terminal board 21. The hall computer HC is a management computer that manages the operating status of pachinko hall gaming machines based on information sent from the main controller 20, and is arranged outside the gaming machine.

  The main control unit 20 is connected to a payout control board (payout control part) 29. The payout control board 29 is connected to a launch control board (launch control part) 28 for controlling the launching device 32, and a game ball payout. Is connected to a game ball payout device (game ball payout means) 19. The main control unit 20 can send a payout control command (a payout control command for designating the number of prize balls) to the payout control board 29.

  The main control unit 20 can transmit various effect control commands including information related to the special symbol variation display game and information related to errors to the effect control unit 24 according to the processing state. Such a production control command from the main control unit 20 is produced by one-way communication in order to prevent an illegal signal due to an external goto action from being input to the main control unit 20 via the production control unit 24. It is transmitted to the control unit 24.

  The main control unit 20 is connected to a payout control board (payout control part) 29. The payout control board 29 is connected to a launch control board (launch control part) 28 for controlling the launching device 32, and a game ball payout. Is connected to a game ball payout device (game ball payout means) 19. The main control unit 20 can send a payout control command (a payout control command for designating the number of prize balls) to the payout control board 29. The main role of the payout control board 29 is to receive a payout control command from the main control unit 20, award ball payout control of the game ball payout device 19 based on the payout control command, and transmission of a payout state signal to the main control unit 20. Etc.

  The payout control board 29 includes a full detection sensor 60 (a detection sensor for detecting a storage state of game balls in the ball tray) and a front door opening sensor 61 (this embodiment). Are connected to the front frame 2 and / or a detection sensor for detecting the open state of the front operation panel 7, and the payout control board 29 can receive detection signals from these sensors.

  The game ball payout device 19 is provided with a supply replenishment detection sensor 72 for detecting insufficient supply of game balls, and a ball counting sensor 73 for detecting game balls to be paid out (award balls). The detection signals from these sensors can be received. The game ball payout device 19 is provided with a payout motor 74 that drives a ball payout mechanism for paying out game balls. The payout control board 29 controls the payout motor 74 based on the payout control command. The control signal can be transmitted.

  The payout control board 29 is in a full state of the upper tray 9 based on the detection signal from the full detection sensor 60, an open / closed state of the front frame 2 and the front operation panel 7 based on the detection signal from the front door opening sensor 61, and replenishment. Various state signals related to payout of game ball payout state of the game ball payout device 19 based on the detection signal from the break detection sensor 72, payout state of prize ball and prize ball number information based on the detection signal from the ball counting sensor 73, and the like. The main control unit 20 can be transmitted. Based on these state signals, the main control unit 20 monitors whether or not the game ball dispensing device 19 is functioning normally, whether or not the upper tray 9 is full of game balls, and an abnormality occurs. If it is determined that it is, the predetermined payout error process is executed.

  Further, the dispensing control board 29 can transmit a firing control signal to the firing control board 28. The launch control board 28 controls energization to a launch solenoid (not shown) provided in the launch device 32 based on the launch control signal, and realizes a game ball launch operation by operating the launch operation handle 15. .

(2-3. Production control unit 24)
The production control unit 24 includes a microprocessor with a built-in CPU 241 (production control CPU), and is mainly configured by a microcomputer with a ROM 242 (production control ROM) and a RAM 243 (production control RAM). An interrupt controller circuit having an interrupt function (including an interrupt prohibition function) such as a sound source IC, CTC, and timer interrupt, a counter circuit for generating random numbers in hardware, and the like are provided. The ROM 242 functions as storage means (effect control side storage means) for storing game data related to effect operation control, and stores various data necessary for effect operation control in addition to the effect control program in which the effect control procedure is described. Has been. Further, the RAM 243 functions as a work area and a buffer memory, and data necessary for producing an effect is stored and used according to the processing state. The RAM 203 functions as a random number counter for effect lottery random numbers used for effect lottery, and functions as a random number generating means for generating random numbers in software.

  The main roles of the production control unit 24 are reception of production control commands from the main control unit 20, selection of production based on production control commands, image display control of the liquid crystal display device 36, sound control of the speaker 46, decorative lamps. 45, clock-type accessory (numerical display unit) 80, light emission control of various LEDs (production LED: not shown) arranged in the gaming machine, movable body of clock hands 97 and flower-shaped accessory 98 For example, the operation control of an accessory.

  The effect control unit 24 includes a display control unit (not shown) that controls the display control of the liquid crystal display device 36. This display control unit is an image ROM storing VDP (Video Display Processor) that controls overall video output processing such as image development processing and image drawing, and image data (effect image data) on which the VDP performs image development processing. A VRAM (Video RAM) that temporarily stores image data developed by the VDP, a liquid crystal control CPU that outputs control data necessary for the VDP to perform display control, and a display control operation procedure of the liquid crystal control CPU. A liquid crystal control ROM that stores the described program and various data necessary for display control thereof, and a liquid crystal control RAM that functions as a work area and a buffer memory are mainly configured.

  The effect control unit 24 is connected to a frame effect button 13 that can be operated by the player, and the effect control unit 24 can receive an operation detection signal from the frame effect button 13.

  In addition, the effect control unit 24 provides light to the light display device 45a including the decorative lamp 45, the number display unit 80a of the clock-type accessory, and the LED in order to realize various effects (light effect, sound effect, and movable object effect). Movable body for operating a display control unit, an acoustic control unit (sound source LSI) for the acoustic generator 46a including the speaker 46, and various movable body features (a clock hand 97 of a clock-type accessory, a flower-shaped accessory 98) A drive control unit (motor drive circuit: not shown) for the accessory motor 97a (corresponding to the clock hand 97 of the clock-type accessory) and 98a (corresponding to the flower-shaped accessory 98) is provided. The effect control unit 24 can transmit control signals for these effect means to these control units.

  The effect control unit 24 is connected to a position detection switch 97b for the clock hand 97 and a position detection switch 98b for the flower-shaped accessory 98, and the effect control unit 24 can receive detection signals from these. . The production control unit 24 controls the operation mode while monitoring the current operation position of the movable body accessory (for example, the amount of movement from the origin position) based on the detection signals from the position detection switches 97b and 98b. Also, the malfunction of the movable body accessory (whether or not it is a normal operation (for example, whether or not it has correctly returned to the origin position after the operation)) is monitored.

  The effect control unit 24 determines by lottery or uniquely from a plurality of types of effect patterns prepared in advance based on the effect control command sent from the main control unit 20, and controls various effect means at a necessary timing. To do. Thereby, the display of the effect image by the liquid crystal display device 36 corresponding to the effect pattern, the reproduction of the sound from the speaker 46, and the lighting and blinking driving of the decoration lamp 45 and the LED are realized. The production of “production scenarios” in a broad sense is realized.

  The effect control command defines a function by a 2-byte configuration consisting of a 1-byte length mode (MODE) and an event (EVENT) of 1-byte length. In order to distinguish MODE from EVENT, MODE Bit 7 is Bit 7 of ON and EVENT is set to OFF. When these pieces of information are transmitted as valid, a strobe signal is output corresponding to each of the mode (MODE) and the event (EVENT). That is, when there is a command to be transmitted, the CPU 201 (main control CPU) sets and outputs mode (MODE) information for transmitting the command to the effect control unit 24, and the first time after a predetermined time elapses from this setting. The strobe signal is transmitted. Furthermore, event (EVENT) information is set and output after the elapse of a predetermined time from the transmission of the strobe signal, and the second time of the strobe signal is transmitted after the elapse of the predetermined time from this setting. The strobe signal is controlled to be in an active state by the CPU 201 for a predetermined period during which the CPU 241 (production control CPU) can reliably receive the command.

  Further, the effect control unit 24 (CPU 241) generates an interrupt based on the input of the strobe signal and executes a control program for command reception interrupt processing so that the effect control command is acquired in this interrupt processing. It has become. Unlike the CPU 201, when an interrupt is generated based on the input of the strobe signal, the CPU 241 is executing an interrupt process based on another interrupt (timer interrupt process executed periodically). Even in such a case, the command reception interrupt process is performed by interrupting the process, and the command reception interrupt process is preferentially performed even if another interrupt occurs simultaneously.

<3. Outline of operation>
Next, a gaming operation related to the pachinko gaming machine 1 using the control device (FIG. 3) will be described.

(3-1. Symbol change display game)
(3-1-1. Special symbol variation display game, decorative symbol variation display game)
In the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment, based on a predetermined start condition, specifically, the game ball enters (wins) the game ball into the upper start port 34 or the lower start port 35, the main control unit 20 The “big hit lottery” is performed by random number lottery. Based on the lottery result, the main control unit 20 displays the special symbols 1 and 2 on the special symbol display devices 38a and 38b in a variable manner to start the special symbol variation display game. Derived and displayed on the device, thereby ending the special symbol variation display game.

  Here, in this embodiment, the big hit lottery based on the winning to the upper start opening 34 and the big hit lottery based on the winning to the lower start opening 35 are performed separately and independently. For this reason, the big hit lottery result regarding the upper start port 34 is derived on the special symbol display device 38a side, and the big hit lottery result regarding the lower start port 35 is derived on the special symbol display device 38b side. Specifically, on the side of the special symbol display device 38a, on the condition that a game ball has entered the upper start opening 34, the special symbol 1 is variably displayed and the first special symbol variation display game is started. On the other hand, on the special symbol display device 38b side, on the condition that a game ball has entered the lower start opening 35, the special symbol 2 is displayed in a variable manner and the second special symbol variation display game is started. ing. Then, when the special symbol variation display game in the special symbol display device 38a or the special symbol display device 38b is started, if the big win lottery result is “big hit” after the predetermined fluctuation display time has elapsed, the predetermined “big hit” is given. In this mode, in other cases, the special symbol being displayed in a variable manner is stopped and displayed in a predetermined “losing” mode, whereby the game result (big hit lottery result) is derived and displayed.

  In this specification, for convenience of explanation, the first special symbol variation display game on the special symbol display device 38a side is referred to as "special symbol variation display game 1", and the second special symbol on the special symbol display device 38b side. The variation display game is referred to as “special symbol variation display game 2”. Unless otherwise required, “special symbol 1” and “special symbol 2” are simply referred to as “special symbols” (sometimes abbreviated as “special symbol”), and “special symbol variation display game 1” and “special symbol” The symbol variation display game 2 ”is simply referred to as“ special symbol variation display game ”.

  In addition, when the above-described special symbol variation display game is started, the decorative symbol variation display game is started by variably displaying the decorative symbol (proactive game symbol) on the liquid crystal display device 36. Various developments are developed. When the special symbol variation display game ends, the decorative symbol variation display game also ends, the special symbol display device reflects a predetermined special symbol indicating the jackpot lottery result, and the liquid crystal display device 36 reflects the jackpot lottery result. The decorated design is derived and displayed. In other words, the result of the special symbol variation display game is reflected and displayed by the stunning ornamental symbol variation display game including the decorative symbol variation display operation.

  Therefore, for example, when the result of the special symbol variation display game is “big hit” (when the big hit lottery result is “hit”), the decoration symbol variation display game develops an effect reflecting the result. In the special symbol display device, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in a display mode in which the special symbol is a big hit (for example, the 7-segment display state is “7”), the liquid crystal display device 36 displays “left”, “middle”, “right”. In each display area of “”, the display pattern in which the decorative symbol reflects “big hit” (for example, in each of the “left”, “middle”, and “right” display areas, the three decorative symbols are “7”, “7”, “ 7 ”display state).

  When this “big hit” is reached, specifically, the special symbol variation display game is terminated, and the decorative symbol variation display game is terminated accordingly. As a result, the symbol pattern of “hit” is derived and displayed. After that, the lower large prize opening solenoid 42c (see FIG. 3) provided in the special variable prize winning device 42 is operated to open / close the open door 42b in a predetermined operation pattern, and thereby the lower big prize opening 40 is opened / closed. Alternatively, the special prize opening solenoid 52c (see FIG. 3) of the special variable prize winning device 52 is operated to open and close the open door 52b in a predetermined operation pattern, thereby opening and closing the right big prize opening 50, and the normal game A special gaming state (big hit game) that is more advantageous to the player than the state occurs. In this jackpot game, the number of game balls won in the big prize opening (the winning ball in the big prize opening) until the opening time of the big prize opening reaches a predetermined time (maximum opening time: 29.8 seconds, for example) or Until the number reaches the predetermined number (maximum number of winnings: the entrance is opened by one operation of the character or the upper limit of the number of winning balls allowed for the expanded winning opening: for example, 9) A “round game” in which the area is opened or expanded and the winning prize opening is closed when any of these conditions is met is repeated a predetermined number of rounds (for example, a maximum of 16 rounds). The conditions for closing the lower grand prize opening 40 and the right major prize opening 50 are not limited to this, and may be based only on the opening time of the big prize opening, or the number of game balls won in the grand prize opening. It may be based on only.

  When the jackpot game is started, an opening effect for informing that the jackpot is started is performed first, and after the opening effect is finished, the round game is performed a plurality of times with a predetermined number of rounds as an upper limit. Then, after the specified number of rounds is finished, an ending effect for notifying that the jackpot is finished is performed, and thereby the jackpot game is finished. That is, the jackpot game is roughly composed of game periods of an opening effect, a round game, and an ending effect. However, the round game execution period excluding the opening effect period and the ending effect period in the closed state of the big prize opening may be regarded as a big hit game period.

  Regarding the information necessary for the execution of the decorative symbol variation display game, first, the main control unit 20 is based on the fact that a game ball enters (wins) the upper start opening 34 or the lower start opening 35. Whether the game is detected by the upper start sensor 34a or the lower start sensor 35a and the start condition (the start condition related to the special symbol) is satisfied, whether the game is “big hit” or “lost” 'Lottery lottery (win / fail type lottery)', and if it is a 'big hit', the big hit type is drawn, and if it is' losing ', the lottery type is lottered' symbol lottery (win (winning) type lottery) (If there is only one type of loss, there is no need to perform a lottery for the type of loss, so the lottery can be omitted). Based on the lottery result information, N'ya, a final decision special symbols to be stopped and displayed (special stop symbol). Then, as the effect control command for specifying the processing state, a “variation pattern designation command” including at least the change pattern information of the special symbol (for example, information on the winning lottery result information, the change time of the special symbol, etc.) is provided on the effect control unit 24 side. Send to. Thereby, basic information required for the decorative symbol variation display game is sent to the effect control unit 24. In the present embodiment, in order to enrich the production variations, a “decorative design designation command” including information on the special stop symbol (design lottery result information (information on the hit type)) is also transmitted to the production control unit 24. ing.

  The special symbol variation pattern information may include information designating the occurrence of a specific notice effect (such as a reach effect or a pseudo-continuous effect described later). To explain in detail, the fluctuation patterns of special symbols are broadly divided into “winning fluctuation pattern” in the case of winning and “losing fluctuation pattern” in the case of losing according to the winning lottery result or the big win lottery result. Examples of the variation pattern include a variation pattern for specifying a reach effect (reach variation pattern) that specifies the occurrence of a reach effect, a variation pattern for specifying a non-reach effect (normal variation pattern) that does not specify the occurrence of a reach effect, Fluctuation pattern for designating pseudo-continuous productions that specify combined generation of production and reach production (variation for designating pseudo-continuous productions that specify the generation of pseudo-continuous reach variation patterns, the generation of pseudo-continuous productions, and not the generation of reach productions Multiple types of variation patterns are included, such as patterns (normal variation patterns with pseudo-continuations), and the variation time for each variation pattern Basically, the reach variation pattern type is a variation pattern that specifies a reach production or pseudo-continuous production that wins the winning expectation, so the variation time is longer than the normal variation pattern in relation to the production time. It has been established.

  The effect control unit 24 performs time series during the decorative symbol variation display game based on the information included in the effect control command (here, the variation pattern designation command and the decorative symbol designation command) sent from the main control unit 20. Deciding the contents to be developed (effect scenario) and the decoration pattern (decoration stop pattern) to be finally stopped and displayed, and the decoration pattern fluctuation display game by changing the decoration symbols according to the time schedule based on the variation pattern of the special symbols Is executed. As a result, the decorative symbols by the liquid crystal display device 36 are variably displayed in synchronism with the special symbol variation display by the special symbol display devices 38a and 38b, and the period of the special symbol variation display game and the decorative symbol variation display game are in progress. Are substantially the same time width. Further, the effect control unit 24 controls the liquid crystal display device 36, the light display device 45a, or the sound generation device 46a so as to correspond to the effect scenario, and develops various effects in the decorative symbol variation display game. Thereby, the reproduction of the image (image effect), the reproduction of the sound effect (sound effect), and the lighting and blinking drive (light effect) of the decoration lamp 45 and the LED, etc. are realized on the liquid crystal display device 36.

  In this way, the special symbol variation display game and the decorative symbol variation display game have an inseparable relationship, and the display reflecting the display result of the special symbol variation display game is expressed in the decoration symbol variation display game. These two symbol variation display games may be regarded as equivalent symbol games. In the present specification, the above two symbol variation display games may be simply referred to as “symbol variation display games” unless otherwise required.

(3-1-2. Normal symbol variation display game, auxiliary decorative symbol variation display game)
Further, in the pachinko gaming machine 1, based on a predetermined start condition, specifically, when a game ball passes (wins) through the normal symbol start port 37, the main control unit 20 performs “lottery per auxiliary” by random number lottery. Done. Based on the lottery result, the main control unit 20 displays the normal symbol on the normal symbol display device 39 to start the normal symbol variation display game. After a predetermined time has elapsed (after the predetermined variable display time has elapsed), The result is derived and displayed on the normal symbol display device 39, thereby ending the normal symbol variation display game. For example, in the case where the lottery result for auxiliary is “winning”, it is in a predetermined “auxiliary winning” mode (for example, all two LEDs 39 are lit), and in other cases, in a predetermined “losing” mode (for example, The two LEDs 39 are all turned off), and the normal symbol in the variable display is stopped and displayed.

  In addition, when the above-described normal symbol variation display game is started, a decorative normal symbol 39a (for example, a stylized normal symbol represented by a pattern, a symbol, etc.) is variably displayed on the liquid crystal display device 36. , A decorative pattern variation display game for normal symbols (hereinafter referred to as “auxiliary decorative symbol variation display game”) is started, and accompanying notice effects (effects related to the normal symbol variation display game) appear. sell. This auxiliary decorative symbol variation display game is equivalent to the decorative symbol variation display game corresponding to the special symbol variation display game. In the case of this embodiment, a plurality of types of auxiliary ornamental symbol variation display games are provided in a predetermined area on the center right side of the liquid crystal display device 36. An auxiliary decorative symbol variation display game is executed by a decorative normal symbol variation display operation (for example, two ornamental normal symbols 39a are displayed blinking like a seesaw). When the normal symbol variation display game is completed, the auxiliary decorative symbol variation display game is also terminated. The normal symbol display device 39 has a predetermined normal symbol indicating the lottery result per auxiliary, and the liquid crystal display device 36 has the corresponding symbol. Ordinary decorative symbols reflecting the lottery results per assistance are derived and displayed (stopped display).

(3-1-3. Type per assistance)
In the present embodiment, there are provided a plurality of types of auxiliary pers (1 to 3 per auxiliary), and the main control unit 20 is based on the fact that a game ball enters (wins) the normal symbol start port 37. In the same manner as in the case of the big win lottery, the “winning lottery (winning / failing type lottery)” is performed on the condition that the game ball is detected by the normal symbol start opening sensor 37a and the starting condition (starting condition relating to the normal symbol) is satisfied. A lottery per subsidy including 'and a symbol lottery (winning type lottery)' that draws a lottery type if the type per subsidence is 'lost' If there is only one type of winning or losing, it is not necessary to perform the lottery of that type, so the winning type lottery can be omitted.) Decide if you are lost The

  In the case of the auxiliary hit, the normal symbol display device 39 stops displaying the normal symbol corresponding to the auxiliary hit type, and the liquid crystal display device 36 stops and displays a predetermined decorative normal symbol reflecting this. The For example, in the case of 1 per auxiliary, the right LED 39 is turned on and the left LED 39 is turned off as the normal symbol corresponding to this, and the first symbol corresponding to 1 per auxiliary as the decorative normal symbol corresponding thereto. Ornamental normal symbols are stopped and displayed. In the case of 2 per auxiliary, the left LED 39 is turned on and the right LED 39 is turned off as the normal design corresponding to this, and the second design corresponding to 1 per auxiliary is provided as the decorative normal design corresponding thereto. Ornamental normal symbols are stopped and displayed. In addition, in the case of 3 per auxiliary, as a normal symbol corresponding to this, all of the two LEDs 39 are turned on, and the third decorative normal symbol corresponding to 3 per auxiliary is stopped as a decorative normal symbol corresponding thereto. Is displayed.

(3-1-4. Opening game for electric trains (game per assistance))
In the case of the “subsidiary hit”, the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 41c (see FIG. 3) is activated, whereby the movable blade piece 47 opens in a reverse “C” shape and the lower start port 35 is opened. Or it is expanded and it becomes an open state (easy winning state) that makes it easy to win a prize, and is an auxiliary gaming state that is more advantageous to the player than the normal gaming state (hereinafter referred to as a “general open game (corresponding to a game per auxiliary))” Occurs). In this ordinary open game, the number of game balls won in the lower start port 35 until the open time (open state time) of the lower start port 35 elapses by the movable wing piece 47 of the normal variation winning device 41 or until the predetermined time elapses. Until the number reaches a predetermined number (for example, 10), the winning area is opened or expanded, and the operation of closing the lower start port 35 when any of these conditions is satisfied is performed for a predetermined upper limit number (for example, Repeated up to 2 times). The condition for closing the lower start opening 35 is not limited to this, and may be based only on the opening time of the lower start opening, or only based on the number of game balls won in the lower start opening. Also good.

  In the present embodiment, different open-circuit games are executed corresponding to the above-mentioned assistances 1 to 3. Specifically, when “3 per assist” is selected, the opening time of the lower starting port 35 (the operating time during which the lower starting port 35 is opened by the movable blade piece 47) is set longer (for example, the opening time passes through). 4.8 seconds: long open (long open)) When “2 per assist” is selected, the opening time of the lower start port 35 is set shorter than 3 per assist (for example, 0.6 through the open time) Second: middle open (middle open)), when “1 per assist” is selected, the opening time of the lower start port 35 is set to be shorter than 2 per assist (for example, 0 through the opening time) .5 seconds: short open (short open)). In other words, the benefits per 1 to 3 per assistance are different depending on the length of the opening time of the lower start opening 35 (the winning rate to the lower start opening 35) given to the player. However, the game mode of the above-mentioned ordinary electric open game is different depending on whether the open extension function described below is in operation (with electric support) or not (with no electric support). When the release extension function is in operation, the above-described release time is extended, and the ordinary electric release game that is more advantageous to the player than the normal game state is executed.

  Here, in the present embodiment, during the special / decorative symbol variation display game, during the normal / auxiliary ornament variation display game, during the big hit game, or during the open-circuit game, the upper start port 34 or the lower start port 35 or the normal When a winning (winning, passing) occurs in the symbol start opening 37, that is, there is an input of a detection signal from the upper start opening sensor 34a, the lower start opening sensor 35a or the normal symbol start opening sensor 37a, and the corresponding start condition ( When the symbol game start condition) is satisfied, this is used as data related to the right to start the variable display game, except for data related to the variable display, up to a predetermined maximum reserved memory number (for example, a maximum of four) It is to be stored on hold. The on-hold hold data that has not been subjected to the symbol variation display operation or a game ball related to the hold data is also referred to as an “operation hold ball”. In order to clarify the number of the operation holding balls to the player, a dedicated holding display (not shown) provided at an appropriate position of the pachinko gaming machine 1 or a holding provided as an icon image on the screen of the liquid crystal display device 36 Turn on the indicator.

  Further, in the present embodiment, up to four operation holding balls relating to the special symbol 1, the special symbol 2, and the normal symbol are each stored in the corresponding storage area of the RAM 203, and are held as the fixed number of times of change of the special symbol or the normal symbol. In addition, the maximum memory number (maximum reserve memory number) of the number of the operation reservation balls regarding the special symbol 1, the special symbol 2, and the normal symbol is not particularly limited, and the maximum reserve memory number of each symbol may be different (for example, The maximum number of reserved memories on the special symbol 1 side is 4, the maximum number of reserved memories on the special symbol 2 side is 2, the maximum number of reserved memories on the normal symbol side is 6, etc.). Moreover, regarding the special symbol 1 and the special symbol 2, the maximum number of reserved memories on the symbol side where the profit obtained by the big hit lottery is relatively high may be set. In the present embodiment, since the jackpot lottery related to the special symbol 2 can obtain a jackpot type that is relatively profitable for the player, for example, the maximum number of reserved memory on the special symbol 1 side is two, the special symbol 2 side The maximum number of reserved memories may be set to 4 more than that.

(3-2. Game state)
Next, the gaming state will be described. The pachinko gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment is configured to be capable of generating a plurality of types of gaming states in addition to the jackpot that is a special gaming state. In order to facilitate understanding of the present invention, first, functions (means) related to occurrence of various gaming states will be described.

  The pachinko gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment has a “probability variation (hereinafter, abbreviated as“ probability variation ”) function” that the main control unit 20 (CPU 201) serves as a function unit. There are two types, a probability changing function related to a special symbol (hereinafter referred to as “special symbol probability changing function”) and a probability changing function related to a normal symbol (hereinafter referred to as “normal symbol probability changing function”).

  The special symbol probability changing function changes the probability of winning a lottery from a low probability (for example, 1/399) of a predetermined probability (normal probability) to a high probability (for example, 1/3 of 19.9). Is a function that generates an advantageous “high probability state”. Under the gaming state (high probability state) in which this special symbol probability changing function is in operation, the big hit lottery probability is high, so that the big hit is likely to occur. Therefore, it can be said that the gaming state expected by the player is a gaming state in which this special symbol probability changing function is operating. The details of the operation start condition and the operation end condition of the special symbol probability changing function will be described later.

  The normal symbol probability changing function changes the low probability (for example, 1/256) to a high probability (for example, 255/256) that the lottery probability per auxiliary is a predetermined probability (ordinary probability), so that it is more than the normal gaming state. This is a function for generating an advantageous “probability change state per auxiliary”. Under the game state in which this normal symbol probability changing function is operating (probability per assist change state), since the lottery probability per auxiliary is in a high probability state, auxiliary hits are likely to occur, and open-game games frequently occur. Thus, the operating rate is improved so that the operating rate of the movable wing piece 47 per unit time is improved compared to the normal gaming state. In the pachinko gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, the operation start condition of the normal symbol probability changing function is the same as the operation start condition of the special symbol time-shortening function described later, and the operation end condition is also the special symbol time-shortening function. This is the same condition as the operation end condition.

  In addition, the pachinko gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment has a “variable time reduction (hereinafter referred to as“ time reduction ”) function” that the main control unit 20 takes on as a function unit. There are two types of time-shortening functions relating to special symbols (hereinafter referred to as “special symbol time-shortening functions”) and time-shortening functions relating to ordinary symbols (hereinafter referred to as “normal symbol time-shortening functions”).

  The special symbol time reduction function shortens the average time required for one special symbol fluctuation display game (the average time from when the special symbol starts to be changed to the final display (average fluctuation time of the special symbol)). This is a function to generate a “special symbol short-time state”. Under the gaming state in which the special symbol time reduction function is activated (special symbol short time state), the average variation time of the special symbol in one special symbol variation display game is shortened (for example, the average time required for the variation without reach) Is reduced from 8 seconds to 2 seconds), a lottery number improvement state is achieved in which the number of big lotteries per unit time is improved compared to the normal gaming state. In the pachinko gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, the variation time of the special symbol may be shortened due to the difference in the number of suspended balls. This is due to the control process.

  The normal symbol time shortening function is the average time required for one normal symbol fluctuation display game (the average time from the start of normal symbol display to the final display (average variation time of normal symbols)) This is a function for generating a “normal symbol short state”. Under the game state in which the normal symbol short-time function is activated (normal symbol short-time state), the average fluctuation time of the normal symbol in one normal symbol fluctuation display game is shortened (for example, from 10 seconds to 1 second). In other words, the number of lotteries is improved so that the number of lotteries per auxiliary time per unit time is improved as compared with the normal gaming state. In the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment, the normal symbol variation time may be shortened due to the difference in the number of suspended balls, but in this case, the normal symbol short-time state does not occur. This is due to the control process. Further, in the pachinko gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, the operation start condition of the normal symbol short-time function is the same as the operation start condition of the special symbol short-time function described above, and the operation end condition is also the special symbol short-time function. The conditions are the same as the operation end conditions.

  Furthermore, the pachinko gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment is provided with an “open extension function” in which the main control unit 20 serves as a function unit.

  The open extension function is a function for generating an “open extension state” in which the opening operation period (at least one of the opening time and the number of opening times of the movable blade piece 47) of the movable blade piece 47 of the normal variation winning device 41 is extended. is there. This open extended state is referred to as a so-called “electric chew support state”. Under the gaming state (open extended state) in which the open extension function is in operation, the opening operation period (starting port open state time) of the movable wing piece 47 is extended, and the opening / closing frequency thereof is, for example, once (open extension function). Is extended from twice (when the open extension function is in operation) to an operating rate improvement state in which the operating rate of the movable wing piece 47 per unit time is improved as compared to the normal gaming state. . In the case of this embodiment, for example, if “3 per auxiliary (long open)”, the open time is 4.8 to 5.4 seconds (for example, open state 1.8 seconds + closed state 1 second + open state) 1.8 seconds + closed state 1 second + open state 1.8 seconds: number of times of opening 3 times) If “2 per assistance (middle opening)”, the opening time will be 0.6 to 5.1 seconds ( For example, open state 1.7 seconds + closed state 1 second + open state 1.7 seconds + closed state 1 second + open state 1.7 seconds: number of times of opening 3 times), “1 per auxiliary (short open)” For example, the opening time is 0.5 to 4.8 seconds (for example, open state 2.4 seconds + closed state 1 second + open state 2.4 seconds + closed state 1 second: number of times of opening twice) In addition, at least the opening time is extended (here, the number of times of opening is extended with the extension of the opening time).

  In addition, in the pachinko gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, the operation start condition of the opening extension function is the same condition as the operation start condition of the special symbol time shortening function described above, and the operation end condition is also the special symbol time shortening function. The conditions are the same as the operation end conditions. Therefore, during the open extended state, the normal symbol probability changing function and the normal symbol time-shortening function also act, so that a gaming state in which the operation rate of the movable wing piece 47 is remarkably improved occurs.

  By operating one or more types of the functions as described above, it is possible to change the internal gaming state (internal gaming state) of the gaming machine. Here, in this embodiment, the operation start conditions of the normal symbol probability changing function, the normal symbol short-time function, and the open extension function are the same conditions as the operation start conditions of the special symbol short-time function, so each function operates at the same opportunity. Will do. Hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, the gaming state in which the special symbol probability changing function, the special symbol time shortening function, the normal symbol probability changing function, the normal symbol time shortening function, and the open extension function are referred to as “probability changing state”. A gaming state from which the special symbol probability changing function is removed is referred to as a “short-time state”, and a gaming state in which only the special symbol probability changing function is activated is referred to as a “latent probability varying state (latent probability or latent probability state)”, and not all functions are in operation. The (non-operating) state is referred to as “normal gaming state”. Therefore, when paying attention to the jackpot lottery probability in these gaming states, if the gaming state is “short-time state” or “normal gaming state”, the jackpot lottery probability becomes “low probability state” and the gaming state becomes “latency probability”. In the case of “state” or “probability change state”, the jackpot lottery probability becomes a “high probability state”. In addition, a winning game is generated when the big prize opening is opened and closed during the winning, but all the functions are deactivated and basically placed under the same gaming state as the normal gaming state.

(3-2-1. High base gaming state)
In the present embodiment, the functions related to the normal symbol, that is, the normal symbol probability changing function, the normal symbol short-time function, and the open extension function are the same conditions as the operation start conditions of the special symbol short-time function. Will operate at the same opportunity. However, when attention is paid to the normal symbol probability changing function, the normal symbol time-shortening function, and the open extension function, respectively, when at least one of these functions is activated, the operating rate of the movable blade piece 47 is improved. Since the operating rate is improved and the winning frequency at the lower start opening 35 is increased, the gaming condition is that the starting condition of the special symbol variation display game for deriving the big win lottery result is higher than the normal gaming state. "Base gaming state (starting condition improved state)". The “high base gaming state” here refers to a gaming state when a function relating to a normal symbol is activated, and a function relating to a special symbol, that is, at least one of a special symbol probability changing function and a special symbol time-shortening function is activated. It is different from the game state when doing.

  On the other hand, when focusing on the functions related to special symbols (special symbol probability changing function and special symbol short-time function) individually, when the above special symbol probability changing function is activated, the jackpot lottery probability becomes “high probability state” which is higher than the normal gaming state. When the special symbol short-time function is activated, the special symbol variation display game has a “special symbol short-time state” in which the digestion time of the special symbol variation display game is earlier than the normal gaming state. In this respect, it is distinguished from the “high base gaming state” in which the starting frequency of the special symbol variation display game is higher than that in the normal gaming state.

  In the present embodiment, as an example of the “high base game state”, an electric chew support state to which at least an extension function is provided is treated as a “high base game state”. Under the electric chew support state, the operating rate (opening time and number of opening) of the movable wing piece 47 of the normally variable winning device 41 is improved, the winning rate to the lower start opening 35 is increased, and the winning frequency per unit time is increased. Therefore, the game state is advantageous to the player as compared to the case where the electronic chew support state is not set (low base game state). Focusing on the presence / absence of the electric chew support state, if the game state is “normal game state” or “latent probability state”, “no electric chew support state” (hereinafter referred to as “no electric support state”) is obtained. When the game state is “time-short state” or “probability change state”, the state is “electric chew support state present (hereinafter referred to as“ electric support state ”)”. In addition, the gaming state that pays attention to the operating status of each function (special symbol probability changing function, special symbol time shortening function, normal symbol probability changing function, normal symbol time shortening function, and open extension function) related to the determination of jackpot lottery probability and the presence or absence of electric support Is referred to as “internal gaming state”.

  Here, in the present embodiment, in order to realize various effects related to the internal game state such as the normal game state, the latent state, the short time state, the probability change state, etc., one internal game state is further classified and managed. doing. For example, the above “normal game state (low probability / no electric support)” includes a plurality of types of normal game states such as “normal state” and “CHANCE ZONE state (hereinafter abbreviated as“ CZ ”)”. Managed as a state.

  As a result, the operation status of each function (special symbol probability changing function, special symbol time shortening function, normal symbol probability changing function, normal symbol time shortening function, and open extension function) related to the determination of the jackpot lottery probability or the presence or absence of electric support, etc. In the case of paying attention to the “game state”, the “normal state” and “CZ (internal game state is the normal game state CZ: CZ (normal)) regarding the variation pattern of the special symbol even though it is the same“ normal game state ”. ) ”Can be selected from one or more types of variation patterns corresponding to each gaming state (variation pattern selection mode (variation pattern allocation designation number (Tcode)). Due to this, on the side of the production control unit 24, production modes corresponding to the respective game states of “normal state” and “CZ” are provided, and these performances are provided. An effect under the mode can be generated (details of the effect mode will be described later), and due to this, on the effect control unit 24 side, it is called “normal state” and “CZ”. An effect mode corresponding to each game state is provided, and an effect under these effect modes can be generated (details of the effect mode will be described later) In the present embodiment, the “latency state” Are also provided with multiple types of game states (variation pattern selection modes) called “latency probability state” and “CZ (CZ (internal game state is latent probability state: CZ (latency probability))), which are managed as different game states. doing.

  In the case of the present embodiment, the “internal gaming state” includes a normal gaming state, a latent probability state, a short time state, and a probability variation state, and a gaming state relating to the determination of the variation pattern of the special symbol (in other words, regarding the determination of the effect) The types of “gaming state (variation pattern selection mode)” when paying attention to (gaming state) are larger than the types of internal gaming state, normal state, CZ (normal), latent state, CZ (latent state), A short-time state and a probability variation state are included. In this way, the “internal gaming state” focusing on the jackpot lottery probability and the presence or absence of electric support is different from the “gaming state (variation pattern selection mode)” focusing on the determination of the variation pattern of special symbols (decision of production). By managing it as a game, you can select a special symbol variation pattern that corresponds to the variation pattern selection mode even under the same internal gaming state, so the variation time of the symbol variation display game (game digestion time) And can make a big change to the production. For convenience of explanation, unless otherwise specified in the present specification, the internal game state is distinguished from a game state (variation pattern selection mode) when attention is paid to determination of a special symbol variation pattern (decision of production). In some cases, it is simply referred to as a “gaming state”.

<4. About winning>
Next, “winning” of the pachinko gaming machine according to the present embodiment will be described.

(4-1. Type per hit)
The pachinko gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment performs a big hit lottery (win lottery) for multiple types of hits. The hit types are “16R long open probability variable big hit”, “12R long open positive variable big hit”, “12R long open non-probable big hit”, “5R long open positive variable big hit”, “5R long open non-probable big hit”, “2R Plural types of hits such as “short open latent big hit”, “2R short open non-probable big hit A, B”, and “small hit (small hit A, small hit B)” are included.

  Of these hits, "16R long open probability variable big hit", "12R long open positive variable big hit", "12R long open non-probable big hit", "5R long open positive variable big hit", "5R long open non-probable big hit", "2R short "Open-latency big hit" and "2R short open non-probable big hit A, B" are hits belonging to the "big hit" type that triggers the operation of the condition device, and "small hit" does not trigger the condition device. Is a hit belonging to the category. Here, the “condition device” is a device whose operation is a condition necessary for the operation of the accessory continuous operation device for performing a round game, in which a combination of specific special symbols is displayed or a game ball is displayed. The one that operates when it passes a specific area in the big prize opening. Each of the hits belonging to the above-mentioned “big hit” type and the hits belonging to the “non-big hit” type (small hits) both have an opportunity to shift to a special gaming state (winning game) with opening / closing operation of the big prize opening (occurrence trigger) It is a hit. Therefore, hits belonging to the “non-big hit” type are different from simple “losing”.

  Of the hits belonging to the above "big hit" category, "16R long open probability variable big hit", "12R long open positive change big hit", "5R long open positive change big hit", and "2R short open probability positive big hit" are the end of the big hit game This is a jackpot type belonging to “probability big hit” in which a later gaming state is shifted to a gaming state with at least a high probability state (in this embodiment, a probability variation state or a latent probability state). In addition, “12R long open non-probable big hit” and “2R short open non-probable big hit A, B” indicate that the game state after the big hit game is at least a game state with a low probability state (in this embodiment, a normal game) The big hit type belonging to the “non-probable big hit” to be shifted to a state or a short-time state). The small hits A to B are hit types for continuing the gaming state at the time of winning. The “small hit” is a hit belonging to the “non-big hit” type, but for convenience of explanation, unless otherwise necessary, it is treated as one of the big hit types in the same row without being distinguished from the above big hit.

  Among the above-mentioned hit types, the hit types for the big hit lottery on the special figure 1 side (special symbol fluctuation display game 1 side) include “12R long open probability variable big hit”, “12R long open non-probable big hit”, “5R "Long Open Probability Big Hit", "5R Long Open Non-Probable Big Hit", "2R Short Open Latent Profit Big Hit", "2R Short Open Non-Probable Big Hit", and "Small Hit AB" are included. In addition, the hit types of the big hit lottery on the special figure 2 side (special symbol variation display game 2 side) are “16R long open probability variable big hit”, “12R long open positive variable big hit”, and “2R short open non-probable big hit B”. Is included.

  In the present embodiment, the winning type relating to the special figure 1 side executes a hit game for opening the “lower big prize opening 40”, and in the case of the winning type relating to the special figure 2 side, the “right big prize opening 50”. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the special figure 1 side may include a winning type for executing a hit game in which the “right big prize opening 50” is opened as the winning type, and the hit type on the special figure 2 side may be “lower big winning opening 40”. The hit type for executing the hit game may be included. Further, it may include a special hit type that opens either the “right big prize opening 50” or the “lower big prize opening 40” according to the number of rounds. For example, in the case of a 16R type big hit type, for example, the lower big prize opening 40 is opened from the 1Rth to a predetermined number of rounds (for example, the 8th round), and the number of subsequent rounds (for example, from the 9th round to the 9th round) In the 16th round, a big hit game such as opening the right big prize opening 50 can be executed.

(4-2. Per game)
Next, the winning game based on each hit described above will be described.

(4-2-1.16R long opening chance change hit game)
A winning game with 16R long open probability variable jackpot (hereinafter referred to as “16R probability variable big hit game”) is a big hit with a prescribed number of rounds of 16 rounds. In this embodiment, the right big prize opening 50 in one round game. The maximum opening time is set to “29.8 seconds” of “long opening time”. Here, the “long open time” means that there is a possibility that the number of winnings in the big winning opening within the time will reach the maximum number of winnings (for example, 9) (the possibility of reaching the maximum number of winnings is sufficient). It is determined as a time span. The opening / closing pattern in which the maximum opening time is set to the “long opening time” is referred to as a “long opening pattern”.

  After the start of the round game and the right big prize opening 50 is opened, when the above maximum opening time has elapsed, the right big prize opening 50 is closed and the current round game is finished, and the specified number of rounds is 16 rounds. If it has not reached, after a predetermined time (interval between rounds) has elapsed, the next round game is entered. However, if the number of game balls (the number of winning balls) won in the right big prize opening 50 reaches the maximum number (for example, 9) even before the maximum opening time has elapsed, the right big prize opening 50 is closed. Then, after the current round game is finished and a predetermined time (interval time between rounds) has elapsed, the next round game is entered. In other words, when the maximum opening time of the grand prize opening has elapsed, or when the number of game balls won in the grand prize opening reaches the maximum number of winnings, the opened big prize opening is met Is closed, and the game is shifted to the next round game with a predetermined interval time ("12R long open probability variable big hit", "5R long open non-probable big hit", "2R short open latent" described later) The same applies to the "probable hit", "12R long open non-probable big hit", and "2R short open non-probable big hit A, B").

  The above-mentioned “interval time between rounds” between round games is “remaining ball discharge time” and “interval time before opening” after the remaining ball discharge time elapses until the next round game starts. Consists of. The above “remaining ball discharge time” refers to an extra time (for example, 1980 ms) for discharging the remaining balls inside the big winning opening after the closing of the big winning opening. As the time width, the big winning opening is closed. Sufficient time is ensured until the game ball won immediately before passing through the winning detection switch (the lower large winning port sensor 42a or the right large winning port sensor 52a) formed in the large winning port. Also, the “interval before opening” means that after the above-mentioned remaining ball discharge time has passed and the remaining balls in the big winning opening are considered discharged, the big winning opening in the next round game is released. A time width (for example, 20 ms) that defines the interval interval. Even if the lower major prize opening sensor 42a or the right major prize opening sensor 52a detects a game ball during the pre-opening interval, the game ball is regarded as an illegal prize due to fraud, and predetermined error processing (error due to illegal prize) Process). In the present embodiment, an illegal winning can be monitored more strictly by providing the pre-opening interval time after the remaining ball discharge time has elapsed.

(4-2-2.12R Long Opening Probability Game by Winning Big Hit)
The winning game with 12R long open probability variable jackpot (hereinafter referred to as “12R probability variable big hit game”) is basically the same as the content of the 16R probability variable big hit game described above except that the prescribed number of rounds is twelve. Therefore, the 12R probability variable big hit game is a big hit game to which a relatively lower profit is given than the 16R probability variable big hit game (in this embodiment, there is a difference in the number of winning balls for four rounds). In the case of the present embodiment, as already explained, in the case of 12R probability variation big hit game on the special figure 1 side, a winning game is executed in which the “lower prize winning opening 40” is opened, and the 12R probability variable big hit on the special figure 2 side is executed. In the case of a game, the game is executed when the “right prize opening 50” is opened.

(4-2-312R long open non-probable big hit game)
The winning game with 12R long open non-probable big hit (hereinafter referred to as “12R non-probable big hit game”) is a big hit with a prescribed round number of 12 rounds, but the big hit game mode differs depending on the number of rounds. Specifically, in the period when the jackpot game is executed, the first half section (first half) from the first round to the specific number of rounds, and the second half section (second half) from the next round to the last round The game operation mode is different.

  Specifically, out of 12R (round) which is the specified number of rounds (maximum number of rounds), the maximum opening time of the big winning opening is set to '29 .8 seconds' of the long winning time up to the 10R of the first half. On the other hand, after the 11th R in the second half, the maximum opening time of the big prize opening is set to a short opening time of “0.1 second”. The “short opening time” is defined as a time width in which it is difficult to win the big prize opening itself, unlike the above long opening time. Unless specifically required, the opening / closing pattern in which the maximum opening time is set to the “short opening time” is referred to as a “short opening pattern”. However, an opening / closing pattern in which the maximum opening time is set to be shorter than the “long opening time” may be referred to as a “short opening pattern”.

  In the present embodiment, a prize is awarded within the “short opening time” according to the performance of the game ball falling direction changing member or the launching device (for example, the rate of continuous firing speed of the game ball per unit time) or the position where the big prize opening is formed. It is difficult or impossible to reach the “maximum winning number” which is one of the mouth closing conditions. In the 12R non-probability big hit game, it is only possible to obtain award balls (profit) up to the 10th R in the first half where the maximum opening time is set to the long opening time.

  Therefore, in the case of the above-mentioned “12R non-probable big hit game”, the first half (from 1R to 10R) is “12R probable big hit game” and the mechanical game action that appears on the appearance (open / close operation pattern of the lower prize winning opening 40) ) Are the same (may be substantially the same) hit game operation mode, but the second half (after 11R) has a different hit game operation mode (short open pattern). Then, the 12R non-probability big hit game is a big hit game to which a relatively lower profit is given than the 12R probable big hit game (in this embodiment, a difference in the number of winning balls for two rounds may occur).

(4-2-3.2R short-release latent big hit, 2R short-open non-probable big hit A, B hit game)
2R short open latent hit per game (hereinafter referred to as “2R latent open big hit game”) and 2R short open non-probable big hit (2R short open non-probable big hit A, B) per game (hereinafter referred to as “2R normal Is called a big hit with a prescribed number of rounds, and in this embodiment, the maximum opening of the big winning opening (the lower big winning opening 40 or the right big winning opening 50) in one round game is opened. The time is set to 0.1 seconds of “short open time”. Therefore, in 2R latent big hit games or 2R short-open non-probable big hits, the big prize opening is only opened for a short open time (0.1 seconds), and the number of round games is also small, which is practically two rounds. Is a big hit game with almost no prize balls (Accurately, there is a possibility of winning a big prize opening, but the maximum opening time of the big winning opening of each round game is short opening time ) Is less likely, and virtually no prize balls are obtained.

  In addition, the hit effect during the 2R latent probability hit game of the special figure 1 side (the effect that appears during the hit game) is the hit in the 2R short open non-probable big hit A of the hit type of the special figure 1 side. An effect that is substantially the same (same or very similar) as the medium effect appears. In other words, the action related to the hit game including the mid-game effect due to the 2R short-opening latent big hit shows substantially the same behavior as the game action related to the 2R short-open non-probable big hit A. It is difficult or impossible to identify whether or not a hit game is being executed. As a result, even if the 2R short-open uncertain big hit A is won, it is possible to give the player a sense of winning expectation for the “2R short-open latent big hit” that will trigger the transition to the high probability state. It has become.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, the number of award balls in the big hit game, in other words, the number of game balls that can be obtained by the player (the number of winning prize balls) is different according to the type of the big hit. Yes. In addition, although it has been described that the maximum opening time is set to the short opening time in the 2R latent probability big hit game and the 2R short opening non-probability variable big hit, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the same long open time as 16R probability variable big hit game or 12R probability variable big hit game or the like may be set so that a winning to the big prize opening is allowed to some extent, and it is difficult or impossible to reach the maximum winning number. Although it is possible, it is set to an opening time (intermediate opening time shorter than the long opening time and longer than the short opening time: for example, 5 seconds) that can secure a certain number of winning balls to the big winning opening. Also good. Further, in order to vary the number of winning balls (special prize number: T1Y) by winning, the maximum winning number may be set to a different number according to the type of the big hit.

(4-2-4. Winning game with small hits (A / B with small hits))
In the hit game with small hits A and B (hereinafter referred to as “small hit game”), the big prize opening is opened twice, and the maximum opening time of the big prize opening per round is 2R latent big hit game The maximum opening time is set to 0.1 seconds, and the interval time from the closing of the first big winning opening to the opening of the second big winning opening is 2R latent chance hit game or 2R short opening non-probability big hit The same time width as the interval time between rounds is set. In addition, regarding the closing condition of the big winning opening in the small hit game, either when the maximum opening time has elapsed or when the number of game balls won in the big winning opening reaches the maximum winning number (for example, 9). One of the conditions is satisfied. This is also the same as the 2R latent big hit game and the 2R normal big hit game. In other words, during the small hit game, the opening / closing operation of the big prize port captured from the appearance is controlled in substantially the same operation mode as that of the 2R latent probability big hit game or the 2R short open non-probability big hit. ing. Since the small hits A and B are the big hit lottery objects on the special figure 1 side, the lower big prize opening 40 is controlled to open and close during the small hit game.

  Since this “small hit” is a hit type that does not trigger the operation of the “condition device”, a round game like “big hit” is not executed. However, by controlling the opening and closing of the big prize opening in substantially the same manner of operation as 2R latent big hit game, a pseudo round game is realized, and it looks as if 2R short open big hit hit and 2R short open non- It makes it possible to disguise as if you were won by a promising big hit.

  In the case of the present embodiment, since the small hits A and B are the big hit lottery objects on the special figure 1 side, the hit during the small hit game is the hit in the 2R latent big hit game or the 2R normal big hit game A An effect that is substantially the same (same or very similar) as the effect appears. In other words, the action related to the small hit game including the hit effect shows substantially the same behavior as the game action related to the 2R short open latency big hit or the 2R short open non-probable big hit A, and as viewed from the player side, It is difficult or impossible to identify whether or not a hit game is being executed. As a result, even when winning a small hit, it is possible to give the player a sense of winning expectation for the “2R short open latent big hit” that is a trigger for the transition to the high probability state. Further, if the player is in a high probability state, the player can be given a sense of tension to fall to the low probability state by winning the 2R short-open uncertain big hit A.

(4-3. Playing state after winning game)
Next, with reference to FIG. 4, the gaming state to be transferred after each winning game will be described. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram for explaining a gaming state that shifts after each winning game. Each game state shown is not an internal game state but a game state in which attention is paid to the variation pattern selection mode.

(4-3-1.16R, 12R, 5R game state after the end of the game with a promising big hit)
After the end of the 16R, 12R, or 5R probability variation big hit game, as shown in the figure, regardless of the game state at the time of winning the win, it is shifted to the “probability changed state”. When this “probability change state” is reached, until the next big hit is confirmed (until the “big hit is confirmed”, the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the display mode showing the big hit, and the occurrence of the big hit game is confirmed. Or, it may be a case where a big hit is won.

  Note that the number of executions of the special symbol variation display game (the number of special symbol variation display operations (hereinafter abbreviated as “special symbol variation frequency”)) is a predetermined number of times (the special symbol variation display game 1). 2 and the total number of executions (total number of fluctuations of the special symbols 1 and 2)): 70 times) until the end or until the big hit is determined within the predetermined number of times, the certain variation state is continued. When the special symbol variation display game is finished without confirming the big win, the probability variation state is terminated and the next game is shifted to the “normal state (the internal game state is the normal game state)”. May be. In this case, this is a so-called “frequency change probability changer”.

(4-3-2.5R, 12R non-probable big hit game state after the game)
After the 5R, 12R non-probable big hit game, as shown in the figure, the game is shifted to the “time saving state” regardless of the game state at the time of winning the win. When this “short time state” is reached, the short time state until the special symbol variation display game is executed a predetermined number of times (for example, 60 times) or until the big hit is determined within the predetermined number of times. When the special symbol variation display game is finished without determining the big hit within the predetermined number of times, the short time state is finished and the next game is shifted to the “normal state”.

(4-3-3.2R gaming state after the end of the game with a big hit probability)
After the 2R latent large hit game, as shown in the figure, the game state of the transfer destination differs depending on the game state at the time of winning the hit. Specifically, if the gaming state at the time of winning is “normal state”, it is “CZ (latency probability)”, and if it is latent state, it is “latent probability state”. If it is, the state is shifted to the “probable change state”. If the game state at the time of winning is a latent probability state, the game may be shifted to a probability change state instead of the latent probability state.

  In the present embodiment, when the game state at the time of winning is “CZ”, the following transition control is performed according to the internal game state. If the game state at the time of winning is “CZ (normal)” in which the internal game state is the normal game state, the internal game state is shifted to “CZ (latency)” in the latent state, and the internal game When the state is the latent state “CZ (latent state)”, the state is shifted to the “latent state”. Note that “CZ (latency)” in which the internal gaming state is in the latent state is managed as the same gaming state (variation pattern selection mode) as “CZ (normal)” in which the internal gaming state is in the normal gaming state. The entity is “CZ” whose internal gaming state is “latent state”.

  In the case of “CZ (latency probability)” after the end of the 2R latent probability winning game, the number of executions of the special symbol variation display game is until a predetermined number of times (for example, four times) or within the predetermined number of times. The “CZ (latency probability)” continues until a big hit is made, and when the special symbol fluctuation display game is finished without the big hit being determined within the predetermined number of times, the “CZ (latency probability)” is finished and the next The game is shifted to the “latent state”, and the fact that it is in the latent state is revealed to the player from the standpoint of production. In the drawing, “CZ (4 times: latent probability)” is indicated. Although details will be described later, in this embodiment, after the 2R latent large hit game is finished, in order to give a sense of expectation of transition to the latent probability state, the 2R short open latency is related to the game state after the small hit game described later. The number of continuations of “CZ” due to the big hit is set to a larger number of continuations than in the case of 2R short open non-probable big hit or small hit.

(4-3-4.2R game state after the normal big hit game)
After the 2R normal big hit game, as shown in the drawing, the game state of the transfer destination differs depending on the game state at the time of winning the hit. Specifically, if the game state at the time of winning is “normal state”, it is “CZ (normal)”, and if the game state is latent state, short-time state, or probability change state, it is “normal state”. It is supposed to be migrated. If the gaming state at the time of winning is “CZ”, the game is shifted to “CZ (normal)”.

  In addition, when it becomes “CZ (normal)” after the end of the 2R normal big hit game, the big hit is made until or after the number of executions of the special symbol variation display game is over a predetermined number of times (for example, three times) The “CZ (normal)” continues until the game is confirmed, and when the special symbol variation display game is finished without confirming the big hit within the number of times, the “CZ” is finished and the “normal state” is started from the next game. From the standpoint of production, the player is clarified that the normal state is reached. However, the number of CZ continuations set by the 2R short open non-probable big hit is set to be smaller (3 times) than the number set by the 2R short open probable big hit (4 times).

  In this embodiment, the 2R latent big hit game and the 2R normal big hit game have the same or substantially the same hit game operation mode, and the game state after the end of the hit game is different in internal game state, but the variation pattern is determined. With regard to (decision of production), it is possible to shift to “CZ” managed as the same gaming state (variation pattern selection mode). Therefore, not only during the winning game but also during the predetermined game period after the winning game (in the case of this embodiment, at least three times), the player side does not know which winning is won I have to. This makes it possible to give a sense of expectation and tension to a high probability state.

(4-4. Game state after the small hit game)
After the small hit game, the internal gaming state at the time of winning the small hit is continued as it is, and the transition control of the internal gaming state due to the small hit winning is not performed. Therefore, the internal game state at the time of winning the small hit and the internal game state after the small hit game are both the same internal game state. This is different from “big hit” in which the transition control of the internal gaming state can be performed.

  However, in this embodiment, the transition control of the “internal game state” due to the small win is not performed, while the “game state (variation pattern selection mode (variation pattern change mode) related to the determination of the variation pattern of special symbols (decision of production)” is not performed. The transfer control of the minute designation number (Tcode))) ′ is performed. Using such a transition mode, for example, when the gaming state after the small hit game and the gaming state after the 2R latent large hit game are shifted to the same gaming state, the effect mode in which both perform the same presentation Even after the small hit game, it is possible to generate an effect under the same effect mode as after the 2R latent large hit game. As a result, the player can be given a sense of rushing into a high-probability state that the player may win the 2R short-release latent big hit and move to the “latent state”. ing. Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 4, the gaming state after the end of each small hit game when the small hits A and B are won will be described in detail.

  Here, the “variation pattern allocation designation number (Tcode)” is data for identifying the current gaming state and functions as a “variation pattern selection mode”. The “variation pattern allocation designation number (Tcode)” is mainly used when a variation pattern of a special symbol is selected (see step S412 (special symbol variation pattern creation processing) in FIG. 19 described later). Work as 'mode'. When the variation pattern allocation designation number (Tcode) is “00H”, it indicates “normal (normal state)”, “01H” indicates “probability change state (probability change)”, and “02H” indicates “latency” “Probability state” is indicated, “03H” indicates “time reduction state (time reduction)”, and “06H” indicates CZ. This variation pattern allocation designation number (Tcode) is changed when there is a change in the gaming state. Therefore, the variation pattern allocation designation number (Tcode) is different from data identifying the internal gaming state itself, such as a gaming state determination number (YJ) described later, in that it identifies the gaming state as described above.

(4-4-1. Game state after the small hit game when the small hit A is won)
After the small hit game by the small hit A, as shown in the figure, the game state of the transfer destination differs depending on the game state at the time of winning the hit. Specifically, if the game state at the time of winning is “normal state” or “CZ”, the game state is shifted to “CZ”, and another game state (latency probability state, short time state, or probability change state) In this case, there is no transition of the gaming state, and the gaming state at the time of winning is continued.

  With regard to the small hit A, when the game state at the time of winning is “normal state”, when shifting to “CZ”, the number of times that CZ is continued (hereinafter referred to as “CZ continuation number”), A predetermined number of times (for example, twice) is set. When the game is shifted to “CZ” by winning the small hit A, the “CZ” is displayed until the end of the CZ continuation number in which the number of executions of the special symbol variation display game is set or until the big hit is determined within the number of times. "" Is continued, and when the special symbol variation display game is finished without determining the big hit within the number of times, "CZ" is finished. When the game state when “CZ” is ended is “CZ (latency probability)”, the game is shifted from the next game to “latency probability state” and is “CZ (normal)”. The game is shifted from the next game to the “normal state” (the same applies to the small hit B described later).

(4-4-2. Game state after the small hit game when winning the small hit B)
After the small hit game by the small hit B, the same shift control as in the case of the small hit A is performed (see the column of the small hit B in FIG. 4). However, the number of CZ continuations set by the small hit B is set to be larger than the small hit A (two times) (for example, three times).

  The “CZ” is a gaming state that can be shifted to even after the 2R latent big hit game is over. For this reason, when the game is shifted to “CZ” due to the 2R short open latent large win or the small hit A or the small hit B win, an effect mode (CZ effect mode) that produces an effect corresponding to “CZ”. In the production, it is concealed whether the internal gaming state is a “latency probability state”, that is, whether the jackpot winning probability state is a high probability state or a low probability state. . In this embodiment, although there is a difference in the operating state of the special symbol probability changing function which is an internal function between the normal gaming state and the latent probability state, the mechanical gaming operation state appearing on the appearance is the same state. Pay attention (both are 'no power support state') and give the player a sense of expectation of a high probability state by not letting the player know what kind of gaming state it is in terms of production Can be done.

  Further, in the present embodiment, regarding the number of CZ continuations, when “2R short open latent big hit” is won, the CZ continuation number “4 times” is set, and thereby the variation number is limited to 4 times CZ (CZ 4 times). Will be transferred to. Then, after this CZ is completed (however, when CZ is completed four times without winning a big or small hit during CZ), the gaming state is shifted from CZ to the latent state. In other words, with respect to the production mode, the CZ production mode (secret production mode) in which the current jackpot lottery probability state (internal game state) is a secret state is shifted to a production mode in which the game state is definitely notified. Therefore, when “CZ” continues four times, the “latent state” becomes clear. In this connection, if you win either small hit A or small hit B where the big win lottery probability state does not change, depending on the winning small hit, from 4 times by 2R short open latent big hit The number of CZ continuations (2 to 3 times) is set to be smaller. Thereby, every time the game in the CZ is digested, it is possible to give the player a sense of tension that the “hidden state” may reach four times when it becomes deterministic. Thereby, whenever the game in CZ is digested, the feeling of expectation that the jackpot lottery probability state is a high probability state increases, and it is possible to give the player a sense of excitement.

(4-5. About winning in CZ)
In this embodiment, when winning 2R short open uncertain variation latent big hit or small hit A or B in “CZ”, CZ continuation corresponding to the won win is set as the new CZ continuation count. The number of times is reset. As a result, it is possible to create a situation in which the number of CZ continuations is four or more when the 2R short-release latent big hit is won. For example, if you win the small hit B and move to CZ (CZ: 3 times), and you win the small hit B again in the third time in the CZ, the CZ continuation count 3 times will be reset by the small hit B win, The CZ period is extended to a maximum of 6 times of “CZ period 3 times + reset 3 times”. In other words, even if CZ is continued four times, it is not always clear that the state is in a latent state, and a surprisingly rich game can be created.

  Of course, when “CZ” is continued four times, it may be configured that it is clear that the state is in the latent state. For example, in the normal state, after shifting to “CZ (normal)” due to winning at the small hit, as long as the user stays in the “CZ (normal)”, 2R short open non-probability latent big hit, Even if one of the small hits A and the small hit B is re-winned, the “CZ (normal)” can be configured so that the number of continuations does not exceed a maximum of 3. In addition, when “CZ (latency probability)” is selected as one of 2R short open non-probability variation latent large hit, small hit A, and small hit B, the CZ continuation count corresponding to the hit type is not newly set. It can be configured. Thereby, if “CZ” is continued four times, it is possible to create a game such that it is clear that the state is in the latent state.

  It is also possible to create a situation where the latent state becomes clear when the number of CZ continuations is less than 4. For example, if you win 2R short open latent big hit during CZ and win the small hit A for the first time after the transition to “CZ (latent)”, the CZ continuation count “2” due to the small hit A win will be reset. Once set, the CZ period will be “1 time after transition to“ CZ (latency) ”+ 2 times re-set by winning a small hit A”, which is shortened to “3 times”, which is less than the original “4 times”. The After the CZ period ends, the gaming state is shifted from CZ to the latent state, and the effect mode described later can be shifted to the “latent state effect mode” for definite notification of the latent state. it can. Thereby, even if CZ does not continue four times, the latent state can be clarified, so that it is possible to create a surprisingly rich game. As already explained, if the winning state is a 2R short-opening latent big hit and the gaming state at the time of winning is “CZ (latent probability)”, the game is shifted to the latent state after the winning game. Therefore, with respect to the production mode, the concealment production mode is terminated and the upgrade is made to the latent production mode. In this case as well, the latent state can be clarified with less than 4 CZ continuations.

(4-6. About fluctuation patterns in CZ)
In the present embodiment, for the “normal state”, the “short time state”, and the like, a variation pattern that defines a different variation time according to the number of suspended balls can be selected. However, a single loss variation pattern (CZ loss variation) is selected as the loss variation pattern that can be selected during CZ, regardless of the number of suspended balls. That is, the variation pattern of the same variation time is selected as the loss variation pattern selected during the CZ, regardless of the number of active balls. Thereby, when it is “losing” in CZ, the same time width, that is, the same effect time width is secured. In the case of winning, a hit variation pattern (CZ hit variation) having a longer variation time than the loss variation pattern is selected because the hit is reported. As described above, the reason why the variation variation pattern selected during CZ is set to the same variation time regardless of the number of operating balls is as follows.

  In general, even if there is no electric support, the number of balls that can be suspended can be changed in a relatively short time (in a general ball game machine, the operation is suspended during a single symbol variation display game. If there are many cases where the number of balls is increased by about 1 to 3), and if this is used to select a variation pattern according to the number of suspended balls, the presentation time (design) for each symbol variation display game The execution time of the variable display game) can be changed, and various effects can be generated. Such a gaming state includes a “normal state” and a “short-time state”.

  However, if the effect time of the symbol variation display game is made different depending on the number of activated balls, the effect time of the current symbol variation display game and the effect time of the next symbol variation display game are likely to be different. In a short period of time, the production time of the symbol variation display game changes frequently, and there is a relevance effect (for example, storyline production of a story tailoring (story style production)) across multiple symbol variation display games. It will be difficult to develop. For example, in the CZ effect mode, when a story-like effect including a related story effect of multiple stories is displayed, if the effect times of all story effects are the same, this is continuously developed. It is easy to proceed (the process of selecting an effect on the effect control unit 24 side is facilitated and the effect control burden is reduced), but if the effect time changes according to the number of reserved balls, In relation to the development, for each story production, it is necessary to provide many productions corresponding to the number of active suspension balls of 0 to 3, and it is also necessary to produce productions with different production times and related expressions. As a result, the types of production patterns increase, and the production control burden associated with production selection processing on the production control unit 24 side increases.

  In addition, when a narrative-like effect such as the above is displayed, it is conceivable to use a pre-reading notice effect. However, since the pre-reading notice effect is a continuous notice effect for the number of active suspended balls, Depending on the start timing of the production, the number of existing operation hold memories will be different each time, and as in the case described above, the production time of the symbol variation display game will change frequently and the production with close relations will be developed continuously. It will be difficult to follow. In addition, since the pre-reading notice effect is a continuous notice effect that targets the number of currently activated balls, the number of executions of the pre-reading notice effect is likely to be different every time depending on the start timing of the pre-reading notice effect. For this reason, as in the present embodiment, the expectation of the latent state is increased as the number of continuous times of the CZ effect mode continues, or the CZ effect mode is shifted to the latent effect mode when the CZ effect mode continues for a predetermined number of times. It is not possible to make a definite notification that the state is in the latent state. In particular, the CZ effect mode works as an effect mode that can conceal the probability of winning a lottery, so under such an effect mode, it is possible to develop a narrative-like effect that enlivens the expectation of a high probability state. This is extremely effective in improving the fun of the game.

  Therefore, in the present embodiment, in order to suppress the occurrence of the length of the production time as much as possible, a specific game state (CZ) in which the same variation pattern with the same variation time is selected regardless of the number of activated balls. The number of fluctuations that the specific gaming state can continue is fixed according to the winning type (2R short open latent big hit, 2R short open non-probable big hit, small hit A, small hit B) The development of the wind production is made easy so that the production control burden can be reduced.

  Moreover, in this embodiment, as already demonstrated, the expectation to the latent state transition can be enhanced according to the number of CZ continuations. And the upper limit number of times is set to 4 times of the same value of the maximum reserved storage number. The reason is as follows.

  First, when the secret effect mode such as the CZ effect mode is continued for a long period of time (for example, for several tens of games), until the player can be sure that the player is not in a latent state (high probability state) (for example, The secret production mode ends and the normal state is changed to the normal production mode where the normal state becomes definitive), and the game is placed in a situation where the number of games has to be consumed for a long period of time, which is disadvantageous for the player. . In recent years, in particular, there are many players who refrain from gaming machines in which the concealment effect mode lasts for a long period of time. For this reason, the number of times the concealment effect mode is continued is set to a relatively short number of games. (Effect mode in which the gaming state can be determined in a short period of time) ", and secondly, the number of times that the concealment effect mode such as the CZ effect mode is continued is kept within the maximum number of reserved memories (four). Thus, the effect in the concealment effect mode can be a “pseudo continuous notice effect” that pretends to be a prefetch notice effect (continuous notice effect) described later, which is effective in improving the fun of the game. Point, etc.

<5. About production>
(5-1. Production mode)
Next, an effect mode (effect state) will be described. The pachinko gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment is provided with a plurality of types of effect modes for causing an effect related to the gaming state to appear, and is configured to be able to go back and forth between the effect modes. Specifically, the above-mentioned effect modes include “normal effect mode” when the game state is “normal game state”, “CZ effect mode” when “CZ”, and “latency state”. There are multiple types of performance modes according to each gaming state, such as “latent probability effect mode”, “short time effect mode” in the case of “short time state”, and “probability effect mode” in the case of “probability change state”. Is provided. In addition, “CZ (normal)” and “CZ (latency probability)”, which are the above “CZ”, are managed as the same gaming state, and in the case of “CZ (normal)” or “CZ (latency probability)” Are placed under the same “CZ (CHANCE ZONE) production mode”. Thereby, from the standpoint of production, the current jackpot lottery probability state (internal game state) is set in a concealed state. The “CZ effect mode” serves as a “secret effect mode” in which the jackpot lottery probability state is concealed from the effect. Such a “secret display mode” works as an effect mode that gives the player an expectation of a high probability state.

  The effect control unit 24 (CPU 241) includes a function unit (effect state transition control means) that controls transition between a plurality of types of effect modes. The effect control unit 24 (CPU 241) designates a specific effect control command sent from the main control unit 20 (CPU 201), specifically, the current gaming state (including the internal gaming state), or the gaming state "Specific effect control command (in this embodiment, a variation pattern designation command, a decoration symbol designation command, a game state designation command, a short-time end command, a predetermined command transmitted during hitting" (Applying an effect control command including information related to a gaming state managed on the main control unit side, such as a “big hit start interval command” or “big hit end interval command”)) on the main control unit 20 side It is configured to be capable of transition control between a plurality of types of presentation modes in a manner that maintains consistency with the managed gaming state. The production control unit 24 has a function unit (production state management means) for managing the production mode related to the gaming state. Specifically, the above-mentioned specific production control command is used to grasp the internal gaming state and the variation pattern selection mode managed on the main control unit 20 side, and maintain this in a form consistent with the main control unit 20 side. Configured to be manageable.

(5-1-1. About production under each production mode)
In each effect mode, for example, the background display as the background of the decorative symbol variation display screen is different so that it can be understood what kind of game state the player is staying in the effect mode. A background image effect appears. Also, the background image effect is not limited to suggesting the gaming state by changing each effect mode, but using a decorative pattern with a different pattern corresponding to each effect mode, or changing the sound effect or light effect, etc. By doing so, each production mode can be suggested.

  In addition, in the “CZ effect mode” corresponding to “CZ (normal)” and “CZ (latency probability)” of the present embodiment, the internal gaming state is the latent state (high probability state) or the normal gaming state (low probability). Although it has been described that it is the same production mode regardless of whether the state is), the present invention is not limited to this. “Genuine CZ effect mode (first secret effect mode)” under the latent state (high probability state) and “Gasse CZ effect mode” under the normal game state (low probability state) according to the internal game state (Second secrecy effect mode) "may be provided, and transition control to these effect modes may be possible. In this case, by changing the appearance rate of a specific effect (for example, a specific character image) between the “genuine CZ effect mode” and the “gase CZ effect mode”, any effect is given to the player. An inference element as to whether you are staying in the mode can be given.

(5-2. Advance notice)
Next, the notice effect will be described. The effect control unit 24, under the above-described effect mode, includes the contents of the effect control command from the main control unit 20, specifically, the variation pattern information included in at least the variation pattern designation command (for example, winning lottery result, reach effect) Based on the presence / absence and the variation time of the special symbol, etc., a function unit (notice performance appearance control means) that controls various notice effects related to the big hit lottery result under the aforementioned effect mode is provided. The notice appearance appearance control means of the present embodiment includes information (for example, winning lottery result information, presence / absence of reach effect, special stop symbol type information (information on the hit type) included in the variation pattern designation command and / or the decorative symbol designation command. , Various notice effects can be controlled on the basis of special symbol variation time information).

  Such notice effect forms include not only notice effects represented by “reach effects (effect forms related to reach variation patterns)” but also those that occur in association with these effects or independently. Basically, these presentation modes are such that a plurality of notice effects are generated in duplicate, and the game contents are enlivened. ) To suggest (notice) and act as a “scoring effect” to win the player's winning expectation (winning expectation). Representative examples of the notice effect include “reach effect”, “pseudo-continuous effect”, “prefetching notice effect”, and the like.

(5-2-1. Reach Production)
The “reach effect” refers to an effect mode with a so-called “reach state” (variable display mode with a reach state). Specifically, an effect mode in which the final result is derived and displayed via the reach state. Say. This reach effect is a notice (suggestion) of the winning expectation level (it may be a big hit), and includes a plurality of types of reach effects associated with the expected win rate. For example, when a reach effect with a specific reach state appears, the winning expectation is relatively higher than when a reach effect with a normal reach state ('normal reach (N reach)') appears. is there. Such reach production with a specific reach state is called “super reach (SP reach)”. Many of these SP reaches have a longer production time (variation time) than the N reach in order to increase the expectation of a big hit. The SP reach includes a plurality of types of SP reach having different winning expectations (for example, “weak SP reach 1 to 5” and “strong SP reach 1 to 3” having a higher expectation level than the weak SP reach (the number is larger). And so on).

(5-2-2. Pseudo-continuous production)
“Pseudo-ream” refers to a production mode with a pseudo continuous variation display state (pseudo variation) of a decorative symbol. “Pseudo variation” refers to a part or all of a decorative symbol in a decorative symbol variation display game. Is temporarily stopped (a change stop operation that looks as if it has been stopped), and the display operation is repeated once or multiple times. Thus, it means a variable display mode that is expressed as if the variable display operation of one set is executed a plurality of times. This is different from a “prefetching notice effect (continuous notice effect)” described later that is developed over a plurality of variable display operations.

  In the case of performing this pseudo-variation, for example, a temporary reach state (a variation display mode that suggests that there is a possibility of a reach state or a reach display pattern is formed) is temporarily lost. Execute a re-variable display operation after a temporary stop state with the combination of symbols to become, or change to a normal decorative design (special decorative design that suggests the possibility of the occurrence of pseudo-ream) It is possible to execute a re-variable display operation after setting a temporary stop state with a combination of symbols including (pseudo continuous activation chance symbol)). Therefore, in the pseudo-continuous effect, in addition to the effect mode that expresses as if the decorative symbol variation display operation is executed a plurality of times during a single symbol variation display game, By using the “chance pattern”, it is possible to include an effect mode that is executed while suggesting to the player the possibility of a pseudo fluctuation. Such “pseudo-ream” basically has its occurrence rate determined so that the higher the number of pseudo fluctuations, the higher the expected expectation, and the reach type (for example, the relatively high expected expectation) (for example, , SP reach).

  Therefore, in the case of an effect scenario including a reach effect (in the case of an effect mode based on a reach variation pattern with a pseudo effect), the “pseudo-ream” is generated at a stage before a reach state is formed (an earlier stage of reach effect) For example, as a notice that a reach effect may occur, one or more pseudo-variable display operations are performed, and after the pseudo-variation is completed, a final game result is derived via the reach state. It will be. In the case of a production scenario that does not include a reach production (in the case of a production mode based on a normal variation pattern with pseudo-continuations), the final game result is derived without going through the reach state after the pseudo variation is completed. become. Here, the fluctuation display operation executed after the pseudo fluctuation is finished is also referred to as “main fluctuation”. For example, in the case of passing through the reach state, a reach effect (reach state) appears in the main fluctuation, When the reach state is not passed, the normal variation is executed in this variation, and the final game result is derived and displayed.

（5-2-3.
In addition, the effect is that there is a possibility of winning a big hit for an operation-reserved ball (undigested operation-retained ball) that has not yet been provided for the execution of the symbol variation display game (the variation display operation of the special symbol) There is a pre-reading notice effect that informs in advance. Regarding the pre-reading notice effect, first, in the main control unit 20, when an operation holding ball is generated (when a start condition is satisfied), the operation holding ball is used for executing the symbol variation display game (variable display operation of a special symbol). Before being provided, “pre-fetching determination” is performed to determine in advance the jackpot lottery result related to the operation-reserved ball (steps S319 to S320 in FIG. 17, steps S339 to S340 in FIG. 18 (random number determination processing to special Stop symbol data creation process), see steps S409 (random determination process for special electric accessory operation determination) to S410 (special stop symbol creation process) in FIG. 19).

  Furthermore, by using the result of the “pre-reading determination”, a “pre-reading variation pattern determination” is performed to determine in advance the variation pattern of the special symbol when the operation-pending ball is used for the execution of the symbol variation display game in the future. (Refer to Step S319 in FIG. 17 and Step S339 in FIG. 18 (start-up winning random number determination process)). The variation pattern of the special symbol determined in advance is referred to as a “prefetch variation pattern”. In this look-ahead variation pattern determination, for example, it is determined in advance whether the reach state is a “reach variation pattern” or a “normal variation pattern” that does not pass the reach state. Since the prefetch variation pattern is determined using at least the winning lottery result, the prefetch variation pattern information transmitted to the effect control unit 24 includes information such as the presence / absence of reach, the presence / absence of pseudo-ream and the number of times. In addition, information on whether the variation pattern at the start of variation is a “hit variation pattern” at the time of winning a big hit (including a small hit) or “losing variation pattern” at the time of winning a loss is also included. When the information on the prefetch variation pattern is transmitted from the main control unit 20 to the effect control unit 24, the effect control unit 24 performs effect control processing related to the prefetch notice effect. A series of processes for determining the prefetch variation pattern through the prefetch determination in this way is referred to as “prefetch determination”.

  Specifically, a “hold addition command” including information on the prefetch determination result (at least prefetch determination result information (information obtained by prefetching the winning result)) is transmitted from the main control unit 20 to the effect control unit 24, and the hold addition command When the production control unit 24 receives the production control processing, the production control process related to the prefetching notice production is performed based on the content of the prefetch determination result included in the command. The upper byte side data for designating the number of balls and lower byte side data for specifying the contents of the prefetch variation pattern are included in the pending addition command. However, the effect control unit 24 does not necessarily display the pre-reading notice effect when the hold addition command is received. Rather, it is determined whether or not the pre-reading notice effect can be executed by lottery, and when it is determined that the pre-reading notice effect can be executed, the start of the symbol variation display game to be performed at the timing when the operation holding ball is generated or first At the same time or at a predetermined timing during the game, a pre-reading notice effect for the current operation holding ball is displayed.

  Note that the “look-ahead variation pattern” obtained by the pre-reading determination when the operation holding ball is generated does not necessarily need to be the “variation pattern at the start of variation” obtained when the operation holding ball is actually subjected to the change display operation. Absent. For example, a case where the variation pattern at the start of the variation is a variation pattern designating “strong SP reach 1” will be representatively described. In this case, the content specified by the look-ahead variation pattern is not the type of reach production of “strong SP reach 1”, but the “strong SP reach” type, which is the main point, specifically “strong SP reach”. It is possible to specify that the variation pattern (strong SP reach 1 to 3) of the same system as “SP reach” is classified as “strong SP reach type”. In the pre-reading notice effect related to this case, an effect mode related to the pre-read “strong SP reach type” appears. Therefore, the main information that is notified by the pre-reading notice effect is that there is a high possibility that a roaring effect (in this case, a strong SP reach type) with a high expectation of winning will be generated for a symbol variation display game to be executed in the future It is information such as whether it is low (information about the expected occurrence), in other words, information about whether the possibility of winning a big hit is high or low (information about the expected degree of winning). By notifying the player in advance at the previous stage, not only the current symbol variation display game but also the symbol variation display game to be executed in the future will be directed to the player, and the fun of the game will be improved. ing.

  Next, the display mode of the liquid crystal display device 36 will be described with reference to FIG.

  Referring to FIG. 5, in the pachinko gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, a part of the screen of the liquid crystal display device 36 (the lower left side of the decorative symbol display area in the drawing) has an operation holding ball on the special symbol 1 side. There is provided a holding display area 76 for displaying the number and a holding display area 77 for displaying the number of the operation holding balls on the special symbol 2 side. When there is a white operation holding ball, it is indicated by a white circle, and when there is an operation holding ball with a color such as blue, yellow, green, red, iridescent (dedicated holding display mode), it is indicated by a hatched circle. ) Or in the light-off state (no operation holding ball: indicated by a broken circle in the figure), information on the current number of operation holding balls is notified.

  The display regarding the presence / absence of the operation holding ball (hereinafter referred to as “holding display”) is sequentially displayed in the order of occurrence (winning order), and a maximum of four holding displays can be displayed in each holding display area 76, 77. It has become. Specifically, in each of the hold display areas 76 and 77, the leftmost action hold ball is the action that occurred first (that is, the oldest) on the time axis among all the action hold balls in the hold display. Displayed as a holding ball. In the present embodiment, as shown in the drawing, on-hold display units a1 to d1 (icon images) each including a hold icon (icon image) provided in a part of the screen of the liquid crystal display device 36 by the same number (four) as the maximum hold storage number. A2 to d2 (corresponding to the special figure 2 side) are provided. The pre-reading notice effect can be executed using these hold display portions a1 to d1 and a2 to d2. For example, normally, the display mode is switched to the operating state (lighted state) by the same number, for example, three as the number of the operation-reserved balls existing when the pre-reading determination is made. Therefore, this hold display unit functions as a hold display means for displaying the number of hold operations. However, when the pre-reading notice effect is executed, the hold display mode of the corresponding one of the hold display units a1 to d1 and a2 to d2 is changed to a predetermined prefetch notice display mode (dedicated hold display mode). As a result, this works as a means for generating a pre-reading notice effect.

  On the left side of the on-hold display areas 76 and 77, a on-change display area 78 is provided for indicating an operation on-hold ball (hereinafter referred to as “game on hold”) that is actually used in the special symbol change display game. It has been. In the case of this embodiment, the in-fluctuation display area 78 is configured such that an image of a form in which an icon of a game execution hold K currently provided for the game appears on the icon of the seat J appears. That is, when the variation display of the special symbol 1 or the special symbol 2 is started, the icon (icon image) of the oldest hold a1 or a2 displayed in the hold display areas 76 and 77 is the game running hold K. The icon moves to the icon of the seat J in the changing display area 78, and the state is maintained for a predetermined display time. When this game running hold K is placed on the seat J, a hold display mode different from the hold display mode in the hold display areas 76 and 77, for example, the display color of the icon changes, (For example, a character, an item image, etc.), the winning expectation degree regarding the current special symbol variation display game is more clearly notified.

  When receiving the hold addition command sent from the main control unit 20, the effect control unit 24 performs a prefetch notice lottery for lottering whether or not the prefetch notice effect is performed as part of the display control process related to the hold display. Do. In this pre-reading notice lottery, the operation holding ball related to the winning is the operation holding ball that is the target of the pre-reading notice effect. The lottery probability based on the pre-reading notice lottery has a higher probability of “big hit” than “losing”, and a reach type with a relatively high expectation of winning, resulting in a pre-reading notice effect. Depending on whether or not, winning expectation degree to jackpot is shown.

  When the pre-reading notice lottery is won, among the holding icons of the holding display sections a1 to d1 and a2 to d2, the holding icon that is the target of the prefetching notice is, for example, a notice from the white of the normal holding display. A “holding display changing system” pre-reading notice effect is performed in which the display changes to a special holding color such as yellow, green, red, or rainbow. Here, the blue, yellow, green, red, and iridescent display of the hold icon means that the winning expectation is high in the order of this color. This is a premium hold icon that is displayed. This reserved color is determined by lottery based on the contents of the look-ahead variation pattern, and the “big hit” is higher than “losing”, and the higher the winning expectation is, the higher the expected winning color is. It is selected with high probability. Such a “preservation display change system” prefetching notice effect is referred to as a “winning change system” prefetching notice effect because it uses the display mode of the operation holding ball.

  The existing operation holding balls are sequentially digested with the execution of the symbol variation display game. At this time, in order to express that one operation hold ball has been consumed, the display position of the hold display portion corresponding to the existing operation hold ball is moved up (sequentially shifted to the left), and the display number is reduced. Although the control is performed, the above-described hold display mode different from normal continues to be continuously displayed while changing the display position of the hold display. In this regard, the pre-reading notice effect of the above-described hold display change system (change system at the time of winning) makes a special notice effect appear over a plurality of symbol variation display games (multiple symbol variation display operations). It can be said that this is an aspect of “continuous notice effect”. This continuous notice effect is executed across a plurality of symbol variation display games, and is different from the notice effect performed during one symbol variation operation like a pseudo-ream.

  In addition, in this embodiment, unlike the above-mentioned “previous change system” pre-reading notice effect, the “variation start changing system” pre-reading notice effect that is triggered by the start of the symbol variation display game can be displayed. It has become. The “change start time change system” pre-reading notice effect is, for example, displaying a pre-reading-only notice image on the screen of the liquid crystal display device 36, which is executed over a plurality of symbol fluctuation display games and continuously displayed. This is a pre-reading notice effect of “image display change system”. In other words, the pre-reading notice effect of “variation start change system” is a symbol variation display game related to establishment of a start condition when a game ball wins a start opening and a start condition is satisfied during one symbol change display game. In addition to temporarily storing the right to execute and pre-fetching notice lottery regarding whether or not to perform the pre-reading notice effect, if this pre-reading notice lottery is won, all or a part of the reserved memory existing at that time, The symbol variation display game is expressed with some relevance. For example, in all or some of the symbol variation display games relating to the existing operation holding balls from the oldest operation holding ball to the operation holding ball subject to the pre-reading notice in the storage order, a pre-read-only notice image on the screen of the liquid crystal display device 36 (A preview image imitating the lightning bolt shown) is displayed. In this regard, the pre-reading notice effect of the “variation start change system” is the same as the “previous change system” pre-reading notice effect. It can be said that this is one aspect of the “notice effect”. In each symbol variation display game, a different preview image dedicated to prefetching may be used.

  Note that the pre-reading notice effect described above can be an execution mobile as follows. For example, (a) only the winning change system (holding display changing system) is executed, (b) only the change starting change system (image display changing system) is executed, (c) the winning change system and change starting change Various execution forms such as executing both of the systems can be adopted. In the present embodiment, the configurations (a) to (c) are configured to be executable. Specifically, through the pre-reading notice lottery, the pre-reading notice effect of the winning change system and the pre-reading notice effect of the changing system at the start of change are each drawn independently, and any of the pre-reading of (a) to (c) above is performed. It is determined whether to execute the notice effect or not to execute the prefetch notice effect itself. In other words, at least one look-ahead notice effect of the change system at the time of winning and the change system at the start of change can appear (the change system at the time of winning and the change system at the start of change can appear independently). .

  Therefore, even if the “previous change system” look-ahead notice effect appears, the “variation start change system” look-ahead notice effect does not necessarily appear, and vice versa. Even if the “system” prefetching notice effect appears, the “previous change system” prefetching notice effect does not necessarily appear. In addition, a pre-reading notice effect of “change system at winning (holding display changing system)” and a pre-reading notice effect of “change system at start of change (image display changing system)” may occur simultaneously. In addition, it is not necessary to configure any of the execution modes (b) to (c) above, and at the time of the pre-reading notice, only the winning change system (holding display changing system) is executed, (Indication display change system) only, or both the change system at the time of winning and the change system at the start of change are always executed. The execution form can be determined as appropriate. Note that the pre-reading notice effect may be displayed by other directing means. You may comprise so that it can be taken out.

(About production means)
Various effects (including error notification) by the pachinko gaming machine 1 are displayed by the effecting means arranged in the gaming machine. Such directing means may be any stimulus transmitting means that can exert a directing effect by appealing to human perception such as visual, auditory, and tactile sensations. Light generating means such as a decorative lamp 45 and an LED device, a speaker 46, and the like Sound generating device, production display device such as liquid crystal display device 36, vibration device for transmitting vibration to the operator's body, wind pressure device for applying wind pressure to the player's body, or the visual effect of the operation is exhibited. A movable body accessory is a representative example. Here, the effect display device is a display device that appeals to the eye like the image display device, but differs from the image display device in that it also includes an image-independent display device (for example, a 7-segment display). The term “image display device” refers mainly to a type that produces an effect by displaying an image, and a device that produces an effect other than an image, such as a 7-segment display, is included in the concept of the effect display device.

<Processing on the main control unit side: FIGS. 6 to 23>
Next, with reference to FIGS. 6-23, the game operation | movement process in the main-control part 20 side of this embodiment is demonstrated. The main control unit 20 side mainly includes a predetermined main process (main control side main process: FIG. 6) and a timer interrupt process (main control side timer interrupt process: activated by a scheduled interrupt from the CTC). 7).

<6. Main process on the main control side: FIG. 6>
FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing main processing on the main control unit 20 side. The main process starts when the power is turned on without operating the initialization switch (not shown), such as when recovering from a power failure, and when the initialization switch is turned on. May turn on. In any case, when power is turned on to the pachinko gaming machine 1, a voltage is supplied to each control board by a power control board (not shown), and the main control unit 20 (CPU 201) performs main processing on the main control side shown in FIG. Start.

  In the main control side main process, the CPU 201 first executes a necessary initial setting process before the start of the gaming operation (step S011). For example, it first sets itself to an interrupt disabled state, sets it to a predetermined interrupt mode (interrupt mode 2), and initializes register values in the CPU including each part of the microcomputer.

  Next, the state (ON, OFF) of the RAM clear signal which is an output signal of the RAM clear switch inputted through an input port (not shown) is determined (step 012). Here, the RAM clear signal is a signal for determining whether or not to initialize the entire area of the RAM, and usually has a value corresponding to the ON / OFF state of the initialization switch operated by the store clerk of the pachinko parlor. doing.

  Here, assuming that the RAM clear signal is in the ON state, the determination result in step S012 is “YES”, and the entire area of the RAM is cleared to zero (step S016). Therefore, the value of the backup flag set at the time of power-off becomes zero together with other checksum values.

  Next, a “RAM clear display command” for notifying that the RAM area has been cleared to zero is transmitted as an initialization command to each control board (step S017). Then, for example, 30 seconds is stored in the RAM clear notification timer as a time for notifying that the RAM has been cleared (step S018). When the RAM clear is executed, the gaming state is initialized, the internal gaming state is the normal gaming state, and the variation pattern allocation designation number (Tcode)) is 00H which designates the normal state. Also, when the effect control unit 24 receives the RAM clear display command, an initialization notification effect for notifying that the RAM has been cleared is executed until the RAM clear notification timer (30 seconds) elapses. As the state effect mode, the effect mode is set to the normal effect mode under the normal state.

  Next, the CTC that outputs an interrupt signal for starting the timer interrupt operation is initialized (step S019), and the CPU is set in an interrupt enabled state.

  Thereafter, the interrupt disabled state and the interrupt enabled state are repeated until an interrupt occurs, and various random number update processes are executed during that time (steps S020 to S022). In this various random number update processing (step S021), various random numbers used in the special symbol variation display game and the normal symbol variation display game are updated. The various random numbers are used, for example, for changing the initial value (start value) of a random number relating to the big hit lottery (a special symbol determination random number used for the symbol lottery) circulating through a predetermined numerical range by increment processing. Random numbers (special symbol determination initial value random number) and random numbers used for changing the initial value of auxiliary lottery (random numbers for auxiliary symbol determination for use per auxiliary lottery, normal symbol determination random numbers) The initial value random number for hit determination, the initial value random number for normal symbol determination), the random number for variation pattern used for selection of the variation pattern, and the like are included.

  In the RAM 203 of the present embodiment, a special symbol determination random number counter initial value generation counter, a special symbol determination counter, and the like as various random number counters used for symbol lottery related to jackpot lottery, supplementary lottery, or variation pattern lottery, etc. There are provided a random number counter, a counter for generating an initial value per auxiliary sub-counting counter, a random counter for determining an auxiliary per auxiliary counter, a random counter for variation pattern, and the like. These counters serve as random number generation means for generating random numbers in software. In the various random number update processing in step S021, the above-described special symbol determination random number counter, the two initial value generation counters for generating the initial value of the auxiliary hit determination random number counter, the fluctuation pattern random number counter, and the like are updated. Generate various soft random numbers. For example, assuming that the range of values that can be taken as the variation pattern random number counter is 0 to 238, a value is obtained from the count value storage area for generating the variation pattern random number value in the RAM 203, and 1 is added to the obtained value. And then stored in the original count value storage area. At this time, if the result of adding 1 to the acquired value is 239, 0 is stored in the original random number counter storage area. Other initial value generation random number counters are updated in the same manner. The CPU 201 is configured to repeatedly execute various random number update processes except during a timer interrupt process that is executed intermittently.

  Returning to the determination process in step S012, the description will be continued. At the time of recovery from the power failure state, the initialization switch (RAM clear signal) is in the OFF state (step S012: YES). In such a case, the backup flag value is determined following the determination process in step S012 (step S013). Note that the backup flag is set to the ON state (backup flag = 5AH ('** H' means any hexadecimal number) when the power is cut off), and the backup flag is set to the OFF state (backup The flag is reset to 00H).

  Therefore, when the power is turned on or when recovering from a power failure, the backup flag should normally be in the ON state. However, the backup flag is reset (OFF) if the predetermined processing is not completed before the power is cut off for some reason. Therefore, when the backup flag is in the OFF state (step S013: NO), the process proceeds to step S016 to return the operation of the gaming machine to the initial state.

  On the other hand, if the backup flag is in an ON state (step S013: YES), a checksum calculation for calculating a checksum value is executed. Here, the checksum operation is an 8-bit addition operation for the work area of the RAM 203. When the checksum value is calculated, the calculation result is compared with the stored value at the SUM address in the RAM 203 (step S014). The SUM address stores a checksum value obtained by the same checksum calculation when the power is turned off. The stored calculation result is maintained by a backup power source together with other data of the RAM 203. Therefore, originally, both should match according to the determination in step S014.

  However, if the checksum operation could not be executed when the power was turned off, or even if it can be executed, the data in the work area may be damaged before the checksum operation of the main process is executed. In such a case, the determination result in step S014 is inconsistent. If data corruption is detected due to a discrepancy between the determination results (step S014: NO), the process proceeds to step S016, RAM clear processing is executed, and the operating state of the gaming machine is returned to the initial state. On the other hand, when the checksum value obtained by the checksum calculation matches the stored value at the SUM address (step S014: YES), the stack pointer before power shutdown is restored based on the backup data, and the processing at power shutdown is performed. A game restoration process necessary for starting the game from the state is performed (step S015). Also, in the game restoration process, predetermined information for game restoration is obtained from the backup information (the number of special figure 1 and special figure 2 operation hold balls, the fluctuation pattern allocation designation number (Tcode) and the internal game at the time of power-off. State information, etc.) and various effect control commands (power return command) including the information are transmitted to the effect control unit 24. As a result, the effect control unit 24 is informed of the game progress state when the power is cut off, and is restored to the effect state when the power is cut off when the game is restored.

  When the game restoration process at step S015 is completed, the process proceeds to the process at step S019, the CTC is initialized and the CPU is set in the interrupt enabled state. In the meantime, various random number update processes described above are executed (steps S020 to S022).

<7. Main control timer interrupt processing: Fig. 7>
Next, the timer interrupt process on the main control side will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the main control timer interruption process. This main control side timer interrupt process is started by interruption every predetermined time (about 4 ms) from the CTC, and interrupted and executed during execution of the main control side main process. In the following, for convenience of explanation, the address value (including data described in the address) when the CPU 201 reads / writes the main memory such as RAM and ROM, the result information obtained by the arithmetic processing on the program, etc. A process such as reading into and taking in a CPU built-in register is sometimes referred to as “acquisition”, and when the CPU 201 accesses a work area of the RAM and stores predetermined data is sometimes referred to as “storage”.

  In FIG. 7, when a timer interrupt occurs, the CPU 201 first saves the contents of the register in the stack area, and then performs a power supply abnormality check process for monitoring the power supply state from the power supply control board (step S051). In this power abnormality check process, it is mainly monitored whether the power is normally supplied. Here, for example, when an abnormality such as a power interruption occurs, a backup process is performed in which predetermined game information at the time of power interruption is stored in the RAM so that the game can be restored without any trouble when the power is restored.

  Next, a timer management process for managing a timer used for game operation control is performed (step S052). The timer values of various timers used for game operation control of the pachinko gaming machine 1 (for example, a special symbol accessory operation timer, a special symbol determination timer, a normal symbol accessory operation timer, a normal symbol determination timer described later) are managed here ( Updated).

  Next, input management processing is performed (step S053). In this input management process, information detected by various sensors provided in the pachinko gaming machine 1 is stored in the winning counter. Here, the detection information by various sensors includes, for example, an upper start opening sensor 34a, a lower start opening sensor 35a, a normal symbol start opening sensor 37a, a lower large winning opening sensor 42a, a right large winning opening sensor 52a, and a general winning opening sensor. This is ON / OFF information (winning detection information) of a switch signal output from a winning detection switch such as 43a. Thereby, it is monitored for each interruption whether or not a game ball is detected (winning occurs) at each winning opening. The “winning counter” is a counter that is provided corresponding to each winning slot and counts the number of winning game balls (the number of winning balls). In the present embodiment, in a predetermined area of the RAM 203, an upper start opening winning counter for the upper starting opening 34, a lower starting opening winning counter for the lower starting opening 35, a normal symbol starting opening winning counter for the normal pattern starting opening 37, A prize winning counter for the prize winning opening 40, a prize winning prize winning counter for the right prize winning opening 50, a prize winning counter for the general winning opening for the general winning opening 43, and the like are provided.

  This input management process also functions as an abnormality determination means for determining whether or not an abnormality has occurred in the gaming machine, and is based on whether or not the detection information from the winning detection switch has won a prize during a period in which a prize should be allowed. Whether or not there is an illegal winning.

  Next, random number management processing within a timer interrupt for periodically updating the random numbers related to each variable display game is performed (step S054). In this periodic random number update process, a special symbol determination random number or auxiliary per-subject determination random number is updated (+1 is added for each interrupt), and a process for changing the start value of the random number counter is performed each time the random number counter makes a round. For example, the value of the special symbol judgment random number counter is updated (added by +1) within a predetermined range, and the special symbol judgment random number counter initial value generation counter value is read each time the special symbol judgment random number counter makes one round. The value of the generation counter is stored in the special symbol determination random number counter. As a result, the start value of the special symbol determination random number counter is changed according to the value of the generation counter, so that the count value of the special symbol determination random number counter is random while the update cycle is constant.

  Next, an error management process for monitoring presence / absence of abnormality in the game operation state is performed (step S055). This error management process also functions as an abnormality determination means for determining whether or not an abnormality has occurred in the gaming machine, monitors an abnormality in the gaming operation state, and if an operation abnormality (error) occurs, the error that has occurred Error handling corresponding to.

  Next, prize ball management processing is performed (step S056). In this winning ball management process, the data stored in the above input management process is grasped, the winning counter is checked, and if there is a winning, a payout control command for specifying the number of winning balls is issued as a payout control board (payout). Control unit) 29. Upon receiving this payout control command, the payout control board 29 controls the game ball payout device 19 to perform a payout operation for the designated number of prize balls. As a result, the number of winning balls corresponding to each winning mouth (“predetermined number of winning balls per winning ball × the number of winning balls corresponding to the winning counter value” promised for each winning mouth) is paid out. It has become.

  Next, normal symbol management processing is performed (step S057). In this normal symbol management process, a lottery per auxiliary in the normal symbol variation display game is performed, and based on the lottery result, the variation pattern of the normal symbol and the stop display mode of the normal symbol (the normal symbol to be stopped and displayed finally (normal stop) Data) for normal symbols that repeat blinking every predetermined time (LED blinking display data during normal symbol fluctuation) is created. If the normal symbol is not fluctuating, stop display data ( LED blinking display data during normal symbol stop display). The normal symbol management process functions as an auxiliary game lottery unit and a normal symbol display unit (normal symbol display control unit) for controlling the normal symbol variation display operation. Details of the normal symbol management process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  Next, the ordinary electric accessory management process is performed (step S058). In the ordinary electric accessory management process, the control process necessary for the execution of the open electric game is performed based on the lottery result of the auxiliary per lot in the normal symbol management process (step S057). An excitation signal is generated and data (solenoid control data) is set. Based on the data set here, an excitation signal is output to the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 41a in the solenoid management process described later, thereby controlling the operation of the movable wing piece 47 and executing the ordinary power release game. Is done. This ordinary electric utility management process functions as an auxiliary hit control means for executing and controlling the ordinary open game. Details of the ordinary electric accessory management process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  Next, special symbol management processing is performed (step S059). In this special symbol management process (hit determination means), the big symbol lottery in the special symbol variation display game is mainly performed, and the variation pattern of the special symbol (prefetch variation pattern, variation pattern at the start of variation) based on the lottery result And special stop symbols. Details of the special symbol management process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  Next, special electric accessory management processing is performed (step S060). In this special electric utility management process, when the big hit lottery result is “big hit” or “small win”, the setting process necessary for executing and controlling the hit game corresponding to the big hit is performed. Details of the special electric accessory management process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  Next, right notification information management processing is performed (step S061). In this right-handed notification information management process, when the high base gaming state of “electric support is present” occurs or when the winning game is in progress, the condition device operation flag described later, When either the winning flag or the special symbol short-time state flag is “5AH”, it is determined that the right-handed state is being entered, and right-handed instruction information (information for instructing to aim at the right-down flow path 3c (large winning opening 50 And a process for making a “right-handed notification effect (launching position induction effect)” appearing to inform the normal symbol start opening 37 of winning instruction information)). As the right-handed notification effect, for example, an image prompting the player to “right-handed” is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 36 in a state where there is an electric support or when a hit game is started (for example, “right-handed”). An image display effect accompanied by character display), and a sound effect that prompts the user to make a right stroke from the speaker 46 (for example, a voice of “Right strike right”). In the case of the right-handed state, a “right-handed instruction command” for instructing the start of the launch position guidance effect is transmitted to the effect control unit 24. Upon receiving this command, the effect control unit 24 receives the launch position. It is the structure which controls a guidance effect.

  Further, in the right-handed notification information management process, when the low base gaming state of “no electric support” occurs or when the winning game is not in progress, specifically, a condition device operation flag described later, When the middle flag and the special symbol short-time state flag are other than “5AH” (00H), it is determined that the left-handed state is being performed, and the right-handed notification effect is not displayed, or the right-handed notification effect currently being executed is executed. Perform processing to cancel. In the case of the left-handed state, a “left-handed instruction command” for instructing to cancel the firing position guidance effect is transmitted to the effect control unit 24, and the effect control unit 24 receives the command and the effect control unit 24 It is the structure which controls a guidance effect. Thereby, an appropriate launch position is instructed to the player.

  On the side of the production control unit 24, when it is estimated that the player has accidentally aimed at the launch position on the left flow path 3b side when the player is in the right-handed state, When a winning occurs at the upper starting opening 34, or when no winning occurs at the normal symbol starting opening 37 even after a predetermined time has elapsed, an appropriate launch position is set for the player by the effect processing on the effect control unit 24 side. In order to give an instruction (instruct the firing position to the right flow path 3c side), the right-handed launch position warning effect (for example, a warning sound by voice) is controlled to appear. Further, when it is estimated that the player has accidentally aimed at the launch position toward the right flow down path 3c in the left-handed state, for example, the normal symbol starting port 37 in the state without the electric support. When a prize is entered, a left-handed launch position warning effect (for example, a warning sound by voice) is controlled so that the player is instructed of an appropriate launch position (the launch position is indicated on the left flow path 3b side). It is the composition to do. The launch position warning effect in the process on the effect control unit 24 side is different from the launch position guidance effect. As described above, the target of the launch position warning effect is for a case where the player is determined to have the wrong launch position, and is mainly an effect having a warning meaning.

  Note that the left-handed / right-handed instruction information by the launch position guidance effect is displayed at a position (upper right corner in the drawing) such as a decorative symbol display area (evacuation display process). In addition, when the image display by the right-handed notification effect is covered with or close to the image display by a specific notice effect, it becomes difficult to see the notice effect that is currently appearing. The display is retracted at a position where it does not occur, or the image display by the right-handed notification effect is temporarily interrupted.

  Next, LED management processing is performed (step S062). In this LED management process, display data is output to the normal symbol display device 39 and the special symbol display devices 38a and 38b. Thereby, the change display and stop display of a normal symbol and a special symbol are performed. It should be noted that the normal symbol display data created in the normal symbol management process in step S057 and the special symbol display data update process (step S309 in FIG. 16 described later) during the special symbol management process in step S059. Display data is output by this LED management process.

  Next, external terminal management processing is performed (step S063). In this external terminal management process, the operation state information of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is output to an external device such as a hall computer HC or an island lamp through the frame external concentrated terminal board 21. The operation status information includes the fact that a big hit game has occurred (condition device has been activated), a small hit game has occurred, a symbol variation display game has been executed, and winning information (for example, a starting point or a big prize) Various information such as information on winning a prize and the number of winning balls) and error occurrence information are included.

  Next, solenoid management processing is performed (step S064). In this solenoid management process, an excitation signal output process for the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 41c based on the solenoid control data created in the ordinary electric accessory management process in step S058, or a special electric accessory management process in step S060. Excitation signal output processing for the special winning opening solenoids 42c and 52c based on the solenoid control data is performed. As a result, the movable wing piece 47, the open door 42b, and the open door 52b are opened and closed in a predetermined pattern, and the lower start opening 35, the lower large winning opening 40, and the right large winning opening 50 are opened and closed.

  After the processing of steps S051 to S064 is completed, the contents of the saved register are restored (register restoration processing), and the interrupt enabled state is set (step S065). Thus, the timer interrupt process is terminated, the process returns to the main control side main process before the interruption, and the main control side main process is performed until the next timer interruption occurs.

(8. Normal symbol management processing: Fig. 8)
Next, the normal symbol management process (step S057) in FIG. 7 will be described. FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing details of the normal symbol management process in step S057.

  In FIG. 8, the CPU 201 first performs a normal symbol start port check process for the normal symbol (normal symbol start port 37) (step S601). Details of the normal symbol start opening check process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  When the normal symbol start opening check process in step S601 is completed, the state of the normal variation winning device operating flag is determined (step S604). The “ordinary variable winning device operation flag” is a flag for designating whether or not the open-game game is in progress (see step S675 in FIG. 13), and the flag is in the ON state (= 5 AH). Indicates that the game is open to the public power, and if the flag is in the OFF state (= 00H), it indicates that the game is not open to the public power.

  When the normal variation winning device operating flag is in the OFF state (= 00H) (step S604: ≠ 5AH), that is, when the normal electric open game is not being performed, the normal symbol is displayed according to the normal symbol operation status (00H to 03H). Processing related to the variable display operation is performed (step S605: normal symbol operation status branch processing). On the other hand, when the normal variation winning device operation flag is in the ON state (= 5 AH) (step S604: = 5 AH), that is, when the normal electric open game is being performed, the normal symbol variation display operation in steps S606 to S608 is performed. Without performing the process, the process directly proceeds to the normal symbol display data update process in step S609. Therefore, the normal symbol change display operation is not performed during the open game (the normal symbol display state of the normal symbol display device is held in a state of being fixedly displayed after the sub-hit. ) The “normal symbol operation status” is a status value indicating the behavior of the normal symbol. This status value is changed according to the processing state and stored in the normal symbol operation status storage area of the RAM 203.

  In the normal symbol operation status branch process of step S605, depending on which status value the normal symbol operation status is “waiting (00H, 01H)”, “changing (02H)”, “confirming (03H)”. The processing corresponding to each is executed.

  Specifically, when the normal symbol operation status is “standby (00H, 01H)”, the normal symbol variation start process (step S606) is performed. If the symbol changing process (step S607) is “confirming (03H)”, the normal symbol checking time process (step S608) is executed. Here, the above-mentioned “standby” means that the behavior of the normal symbol is in a standby state for the next fluctuation display, and “in fluctuation” means that the behavior of the normal symbol is fluctuating (variation display). The “under confirmation” indicates that the normal symbol variation display is finished and the stop (determined) display is in progress (during the normal symbol confirmation time). By these processes, a variable display operation that sets a normal symbol variation start and variation stop as one set is realized. The details of the normal symbol variation start processing (step S606: FIG. 10), the normal symbol variation processing (step S607: FIG. 11), and the normal symbol confirmation time processing (step S608: FIG. 13) will be described later.

  When any of the processes in steps S606 to S608 is completed, the normal symbol display data update process in step S609 is performed. In this normal symbol display data update processing, it is determined whether or not the normal symbol is fluctuating, and if it is fluctuating, data of normal symbols that repeat blinking every predetermined time (for example, 128 ms) If the normal symbol is not changing, data for stop display (LED flashing display data during normal symbol stop display) is generated. The normal symbol display data created here is output in the LED management process (step S062) in FIG. 7, and the normal symbol variation display and stop display on the normal symbol display device 39 are realized. As a result, the normal symbol management process is exited, and the process proceeds to the normal electric accessory management process in step S058 of FIG.

(8-1. Normal symbol start opening check process: Fig. 9)
First, the normal symbol start opening check process (step S601 in FIG. 8) will be described. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing details of the normal symbol starting port check process in step S601. The normal symbol start opening check process serves as a winning time process (a normal symbol side winning time process) executed based on the establishment of a predetermined starting condition. Here, in order to execute a normal symbol variation display game As the pre-start process, an addition process of the number of suspended balls in the normal symbol caused by the occurrence of the entrance of the normal symbol start opening 37, a process of storing various random numbers, a process of creating a hold addition command, and the like are performed.

  In FIG. 9, the CPU 201 first determines whether or not a ball entering (passing) is detected at the normal symbol start opening 37 (step S611).

  When the ball entering the normal symbol start port 37 is detected (step S611: YES), it is determined whether or not the number of the operation reserved balls of the normal symbol is 4 or more (step S612). That is, it is determined whether or not the number of operation holding balls related to the normal symbol (hereinafter referred to as “normal symbol operation holding ball”) is less than the maximum reserved memory number (here, the upper limit of four). If there is no entry detection of the normal symbol start port 37 (step S611: NO), the normal symbol start port check process is exited without doing anything.

  When the normal symbol start opening 37 is detected but the number of normal symbol operation reservation balls is 4 or more (step S612: YES), the normal symbol start opening check process is exited without doing anything. On the other hand, when the number of normal symbol operation reservation balls is not 4 or more, that is, less than 4 (step S612: NO), 1 is added to the number of normal symbol operation reservation balls (step S613), and the process of step S614 Proceed to

  When the processing proceeds to step S614, various random numbers used for the normal symbol variation display game related to the normal symbol operation holding ball generated this time are acquired (step S614). More specifically, the current value of the auxiliary per-attack determination random number, the normal symbol determination random number, and the normal symbol variation pattern random number is acquired from the random number counter, and the acquired random number value is stored in the reserved storage area of the RAM 203. This reserved storage area is an area for storing predetermined game information related to the symbol variation display game as an operation holding ball (holding data), and in the reserved storage area, the above-described various random numbers as reserved data are usually stored in the reserved symbol. Until the change display operation is performed (until the normal symbol change display game is executed), the starting condition is held and stored in the order in which the starting conditions are satisfied (the order of entry). The reserved storage area is provided with a reserved storage area corresponding to the normal symbol (a normal symbol reserved storage area corresponding to the normal symbol (ordinary symbol reserved storage area). A storage area to a reserved n storage area (n is the maximum number of active reserved balls: in this embodiment, n = 4) is provided, and each of the reserved data for the maximum number of activated reserved balls can be stored (hold) The storage order is stored in the order of the hold 1 storage area, the hold 2 storage area,..., The hold n−1 storage area, and the hold n storage area).

  Next, a “general symbol hold addition command” composed of command data designating the normal symbol and command data designating the number of normal symbol actuated balls is created (step S615) and transmitted to the effect control unit 24. (Step S616). As a result, the normal symbol start opening check process is exited. This general figure hold addition command is used when displaying information related to the number of normal symbol operation reserved balls on the effect means (for example, the liquid crystal display device 36) on the effect control unit 24 side.

(8-2. Normal symbol variation start processing: FIG. 10)
Next, the normal symbol variation start process (step S606) will be described. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing details of the normal symbol variation start process of FIG.

  In FIG. 10, the CPU 201 first determines whether or not the normal symbol operation reservation ball number is zero (step S621). If the normal symbol operation reservation ball number is not zero (step S621: NO), It progresses to a process and the process (step S623-S636) at the time of the fluctuation | variation start of the normal symbol which made the operation | movement suspension ball | bowl used for the present fluctuation | variation display object is performed.

  When proceeding to step S623, 1 is subtracted from the number of normal symbol actuated retained balls (actuated retained ball number on the normal symbol side used for the current variation display operation −1: step S623), and the normal symbol actuated retained ball number information after subtraction. The “general map hold subtraction command” including is transmitted to the effect control unit 24 (step S624).

  Next, normal symbol operation confirmation data is stored (step S625). The normal symbol operation confirmation data is information for designating the start of variation of the normal symbol this time. For example, if the normal symbol is the variation start, “01H” is stored in the normal symbol operation confirmation data.

  Next, the normal symbol hold data stored in the hold storage area of the RAM 203 is shifted (step S626), and the normal symbol hold 4 storage area is cleared to zero (step S627). In the process of steps S626 to S627, the hold data (random number for determining per assistance, random number for determining normal symbol, stored in the hold storage area (hold 1 storage area) corresponding to the number n of reserved symbols of the normal symbol n = 1, And a random number for normal symbol fluctuation pattern) are read out and stored in the random number storage area for normal symbol determination in the RAM 203, and the reserved storage area (holding) corresponding to the normal symbol holding n storage area (n = 2, 3, 4) (2 storage area, hold 3 storage area, hold 4 storage area) is stored in the hold storage area corresponding to 'n-1' (step S626), and the hold 4 storage area is cleared. (Step S627). That is, the hold data in the normal symbol hold 1 storage area is shifted to the normal symbol determination random number storage area, and the hold data after the hold 2 storage area is numbered one by one (hold 2 storage area → hold 1). The memory area, the hold 3 storage area → the hold 2 storage area, and the hold 4 storage area → the hold 3 storage area are overwritten and overwritten, and an empty area is provided in the hold 4 storage area of the normal symbol (the new operation hold ball is If it does not occur, each time the processing of step S627 is performed, the vacant area is sequentially shifted, so that all the reserved storage areas become vacant areas when all the operating suspending balls are used. As a result, the start order of the normal symbol variation display game matches the order of the number n of active suspension balls (n = 1, 2, 3, 4), and the normal symbol acquired at the time of entering the normal symbol start opening is displayed. It is specified to which holding storage area the operation holding ball corresponds, and holding storage of a new operation holding ball becomes possible.

  Next, a random number determination process for determining the operation of an ordinary electric accessory is performed (step S629). In the random determination process for determining the normal electric accessory operation, the “winning lottery (winning lottery per auxiliary)” relating to the current normal symbol variation display game is performed using the random number value for determining the auxiliary hit.

(F-1. Random number determination table per auxiliary)
The sub-random number determination table per auxiliary is for determining the winning type (whether per auxiliary or lost) according to the lottery probability state per auxiliary (high probability state (high probability) and low probability state (low probability)). A determination area (determination value) and a random number for determination per auxiliary (random size for determination per auxiliary: 251) are defined in association with each other. Depending on whether or not it belongs to the value, either sub-hit or loss is determined. Therefore, even if the acquired random numbers for determination per auxiliary belong to the same determination value (the same random values for determination per auxiliary), the current per lot determination probability state is a high probability state or a low probability. Depending on the status, the winning type may be different, such as “per assistance” on the one hand and “losing” on the other hand. In this embodiment, the winning probability per assistance is “1/251” in the low probability state and higher than that in the high probability state, for example, “250/251 (may be 251/251)”. It has come to win. Therefore, in the high probability state (while the electric support is present), the game is won almost every game and assistance.

  If the winning lottery related to the normal symbol results in “subsidized per assistance” winning, the subsidence determination flag is set to “5 AH (subsidiary per unit determination flag is in the ON state)”, and it belongs to other determination values. Is not won per assistance (the assistance judgment flag is OFF). Therefore, if the random number value for determining the auxiliary hit belongs to the determination value that is the auxiliary hit determination flag “00H”, it means that the “winning assist” is not won, and the current winning determination result is “lost” Is OFF state).

  When the random number determination process for determining whether or not the normal electrical component is activated in step S629 is completed, a normal stop symbol creating process is performed (step S630). In this normal stop symbol creation process, the winning symbol lottery result of the normal electric utility operation determination random number determination process and the random symbol value for normal symbol determination in step S629 are used, and the “symbol lottery (assistance Winning symbol lottery) ”.

(F-2. Symbol table per assistance)
In the above symbol table, “normal symbol determination random value (normal symbol determination random value: 200)” and a determination area (determination value) for determining the winning type are defined in association with each other. Specifically, the normal symbol determination data and the normal stop symbol number are determined depending on which determination value the normal symbol determination random number value belongs to.

  The “ordinary symbol determination data” is data for identifying the winning type (winning type: type per assistance, and loss type). This is data for identifying whether winning per 2 (normal time opening: middle opening), 1 per auxiliary (short opening: short opening), or losing. Specifically, when the normal symbol determination data is “01H”, “1 per assist”, “2H per assist”, “3 per assist”, “3 per assist”, “00H” In this case, it indicates that it is “losing (in the case where there are a plurality of types of losing, a value corresponding to each losing)”. The “normal stop symbol number” is data for designating the stop symbol (normal stop symbol) mode of the normal symbol to be stopped and displayed on the normal symbol display device 39. It is used when specifying the symbol type.

(F-2-1. Supplement per symbol table)
In the auxiliary per symbol table of the present embodiment, the normal symbol determining random number value and the determination value for determining the auxiliary per hit type are defined in association with each other. Specifically, the normal symbol determining random number value is Depending on which judgment value it belongs to, one of the auxiliary types is determined from among a plurality of types of auxiliary units.

  In the above-mentioned sub-symbol per symbol table, for example, the winning probability per symbol (symbol selection rate) that triggers the execution of a general electric open game with a relatively high profit state is determined to be a relatively low probability. Specifically, when the random number for symbol determination is in the range of determination values 0 to 89, “1 per assist” is won (symbol selection rate (symbol drawing probability): 90/200), and determination values 90 to If it falls within the range of 154, “2 per assistance” wins (symbol selection rate (symbol drawing probability): 65/200), and if it falls within the range of judgment values 150 to 199, “3 per assistance” wins (symbol selection) Rate: 45/200), and the type per assistance is determined with a predetermined symbol selection rate (3 per assistance <2 per assistance <1 per assistance), and the corresponding normal symbol determination data and The normal stop symbol number is determined. In the present embodiment, the symbol selection rate per assist is determined to be lower than the combined symbol selection rate of 2 per assist and 3 per assist (the symbol selection rate per assist is 90 / 200, the combined symbol selection rate of 2 per assistance and 3 per assistance is 110/200). However, the symbol selection rate per each assistance can be changed as appropriate according to game play.

  When the normal stop symbol creation process in step S630 is completed, a normal symbol variation pattern creation process is then performed (step S631). In this normal symbol variation pattern creation process, the variation pattern assignment designation number (Tcode) (current game state), the winning lottery result obtained in the random determination process for determining the normal electric accessory operation, and the assistance of the normal stop symbol creation process Using the winning symbol lottery result and the random symbol random pattern for normal symbol variation, the regular symbol variation pattern for the normal symbol active holding ball used for the normal symbol variation display operation is determined by lottery. . Then, in order to inform the effect control unit 24 of the contents of the normal symbol variation pattern, a “normal symbol variation pattern designation command” including variation pattern information that can specify the contents of the normal symbol variation pattern is created as an effect control command. Then, this is transmitted to the production control unit 24 side.

  Here, first, a random number value for a normal symbol variation pattern is obtained, and then, on the basis of a lottery result per assist (win lottery, symbol lot per assist), in the case of a win, a “variable per subvariation pattern distribution table (not shown) ")", In the case of a loss, a "loss variation pattern distribution table (not shown)" is acquired. Then, the variation pattern of the normal symbol is determined by the normal symbol variation pattern lottery using the variation pattern distribution table per auxiliary and the random value for the normal symbol variation pattern.

(F-3. Normal symbol variation pattern distribution table)
The above normal symbol variation pattern distribution table includes a “variable pattern distribution table for assisting” selected when winning per assist, and a “variation pattern allocation table for loss” selected when winning a loss. Is included.

  In each variation pattern allocation table, the variation pattern related to the ordinary symbol (ordinary symbol variation pattern) is the number of the operation suspended balls of the ordinary symbol (the number of remaining activated balls excluding the activated suspension ball used for the current variation display operation) ), Internal gaming state (whether it is in a state with or without electrical support (whether it is a variable pattern allocation designation number (Tcode) (current gaming state))), a lottery result per auxiliary (normal It is determined in association with the random symbol value for the normal symbol variation pattern) and the random symbol value for the normal symbol variation pattern, and is selected from one or a plurality of types of variation patterns. One of the normal symbol variation patterns is selected from the above.

  However, the normal symbol variation display game is an auxiliary symbol variation display game for generating a free-of-charge open game having a profit state lower than that of the jackpot. Therefore, in the auxiliary decorative symbol variation display game corresponding to this, it is not necessary to present a wide variety of announcement effects as in the decorative symbol variation display game, and it is not necessary to generate the announcement effect itself. There is a good case. Therefore, when determining the normal symbol variation pattern, in order to reduce the control burden, the normal symbol variation pattern corresponding to the winning type is simply selected instead of the lottery based on the random number for the normal symbol variation pattern. It is preferable. For example, in the case of 1 per assist, the normal symbol variation pattern 1, in the case of 2 per assist, the normal symbol variation pattern 2, in the case of 3 per assist, the normal symbol variation pattern 3, and in the case of loss, the normal symbol variation pattern 4. It can be configured such that one normal symbol variation pattern corresponding to the winning type is determined. Further, a common symbol variation pattern common to 1 to 3 per assistance, or a common symbol variation pattern common to all winning types may be determined. However, under the “Electric support” state, such as the short-time state or the probable change state, the open extension function and the normal symbol time-shortening function work, so when determining the normal symbol variation pattern, at least the internal game state or variation pattern distribution A designated number (Tcode) (current gaming state) is considered. Therefore, under the electric support state, a normal symbol variation pattern different from the electric support state is determined.

  In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 29, a common symbol variation pattern common to all winning types is selected in order to reduce the control burden. Specifically, in the state without the electric support, regardless of the number of balls held for normal symbols, the winning type, etc., “normal medium fluctuation 6s (variation time 6000 ms)” is selected as the normal symbol fluctuation pattern, and there is electric support. In the state, “short-time fluctuation 1.5 s (variation time 1500 ms)” is selected. Of course, like the variation pattern of the special symbol, a variation pattern (hit variation pattern, loss variation (normal variation) pattern) corresponding to the winning type can be determined.

  Along with the determination of the normal symbol variation pattern, a “normal symbol variation time determination table (not shown)” corresponding to the variation pattern is also determined. In this “ordinary symbol variation time determination table”, a variation time (ordinary symbol variation display operation time) corresponding to the ordinary symbol variation pattern is determined, and when this variation time determination table is determined, this normal symbol variation time is determined. The pattern variation time (special symbol variation display operation time) is determined. The determined variation time is stored (set) in the normal symbol accessory action timer, and this variation time is the execution time of the current normal symbol variation display game (ordinary symbol game), in other words, the normal symbol variation display game. The game time of the “auxiliary decorative symbol variation display game” executed synchronously (decorative symbol variation display operation time (effect time)). Note that the variation time of the normal symbol may be the same variation time regardless of the normal symbol variation pattern type. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 29, it is 6000 ms in the case of no electric support, and 1500 ms in the case of electric support.

  The information related to the normal symbol variation pattern determined in this manner mainly includes another winning lottery result of sub-hit / losing (in the case of this embodiment, the information regarding the sub-hit symbol lottery result is described later in the sub-hit Included in the “designation command”), the current game state type, information on the variation time, and the like. The CPU 201 creates a “normal symbol variation pattern designation command” that can specify the content (step S631), and transmits this to the effect control unit 24 side (step S632). When the effect control unit 24 receives the normal symbol variation pattern designation command, the effect control unit 24 controls the notice effect in the current auxiliary decorative symbol variation display game based on the normal symbol variation pattern information included therein. However, in this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 29, a normal symbol variation pattern designation command including information regarding the current gaming state type (information regarding presence / absence of electric support) and information regarding variation time is transmitted. Specifically, “0096H” for designating “normal fluctuation 6 s (variation time 6000 ms)” is designated in the case of no electric support, and “temporal fluctuation 1.5 s (variation time 1500 ms) in the case of electric support. "05DCH" designating "" is transmitted.

  Next, 5AH (ON state) is stored in the normal symbol changing flag that specifies that the normal symbol is being changed (step S633). The “ordinary symbol changing flag” is a flag indicating whether the normal symbol is changing. When the flag is in the ON state (= 5 AH), it indicates that the normal symbol is changing. When is in the OFF state (= 00H), it indicates that the normal symbol is stopped

  Next, an auxiliary per symbol designating command is created based on the auxiliary per symbol design lottery result obtained in the normal stop symbol creating process in step S630 (step S634), and this is transmitted to the effect control unit 24 (step S635). This auxiliary per symbol designating command is composed of two bytes: an upper byte (MODE) for designating a normal symbol, and a lower byte (EVNET) for designating a type per assist and a loss type. Therefore, the “sub-assistance symbol designating command” includes information regarding the normal symbol and the winning type (success per symbol symbol lottery result). For example, “BDH” indicating a normal symbol is set on the upper byte (MODE) side, and an EVNET value corresponding to the winning type (a value that can specify the type per assist or the loss type is specified on the lower byte (EVENT) side. : For example, “01H” is set for 1 assist, “02H” for 2 assist, “03H” for assist, “04H” for lost, etc.). Therefore, if the symbol designating command per assistance is, for example, “BD01H”, it is possible to specify that the result of the normal symbol variation display game this time is 1 per assistance. Upon receiving the normal symbol variation pattern designation command and the auxiliary per symbol designation command, the effect control unit 24 displays the auxiliary decoration symbol variation display game result based on the normal symbol variation pattern information and the winning type information included therein. The decoration stop symbol type and the notice effect during the auxiliary decorative symbol variation display game are determined, and the present auxiliary decorative symbol variation display game is controlled to appear.

  Then, as the normal symbol variation start setting process, the normal symbol operation status is switched to “variing (02H)” (02H is stored in the normal symbol operation status), and 00H is stored in the normal symbol determination random number storage area (cleared to zero). (Step S636).

  As described above, when the normal symbol variation start process is exited, the normal symbol display data update processing (step S609) of FIG. 8 is performed, and thus the normal symbol variation display is started. As a result, the normal symbol management process (step S057) is exited, and the process proceeds to the normal electric accessory management process (step S058) of FIG.

(8-3. Normal symbol variation processing: Fig. 11)
Next, the normal symbol variation processing (step S607) will be described. FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing details of the normal symbol changing process (step S607) of FIG.

  In FIG. 11, the CPU 201 first determines whether or not the normal symbol accessory operation timer is zero, that is, whether or not the variation time of the normal symbol has elapsed (step S661). If the normal symbol accessory operation timer is not zero (step S661: NO), the normal symbol change time has not yet passed, that is, the normal symbol is changing. Exit.

  If the normal symbol accessory operation timer becomes zero (step S661: YES), a “normal symbol variation stop command” indicating that the variation display of the normal symbol has ended is transmitted to the effect control unit 24 as the effect control command. (Step S662). With this normal symbol variation stop command, the effect control unit 24 grasps that the variation time of the normal symbol has elapsed and the normal symbol variation display game has ended, and stops the display of the decorative auxiliary symbol currently being displayed in the variation display (confirmed display). ) As a result, the auxiliary decorative symbol variation display game is also terminated along with the termination of the normal symbol variation display game.

  Next, a normal symbol fluctuation stop setting process (step S663) is performed. In this normal symbol fluctuation stop setting process, various setting processes required at the end of the normal symbol fluctuation time are performed. Details of this normal symbol fluctuation stop setting process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  When the normal symbol variation stop setting process in step S663 is finished, the normal symbol variation processing is exited, the normal symbol display data update processing in step S609 in FIG. 8 is performed, and then the ordinary symbol management processing is exited. The process proceeds to the ordinary electric accessory management process in step S058 of FIG.

(8-3-1. Normal symbol fluctuation stop setting process: FIG. 12)
Next, the normal symbol variation stop setting process (step S663) will be described. FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing details of the normal symbol fluctuation stop setting process of FIG.

  In FIG. 12, the CPU 201 first stores the normal symbol determination signal output time (for example, 100 ms) in the normal symbol determination timer (step S651). The “ordinary symbol determination signal output time” is a margin time for ensuring the output time of the normal symbol determination signal for notifying that the normal symbol is fixedly displayed from the frame external terminal board 21 to the hall computer HC. It is. If it is not necessary to output the normal symbol determination signal to the hall computer HC, the process of step S651 does not have to be executed.

  Next, the normal symbol determination data is acquired (step S652). Based on the acquired normal symbol determination data and the normal symbol fixed display time determination table 1 (FIG. 30), a fixed display time corresponding to the result of the lottery per auxiliary is determined. Determination is made (step S653). Here, the “determined display time” means that the normal symbol (ordinary stop symbol) is stopped and displayed in the stop display mode corresponding to the result of the current normal symbol variation display game after the normal symbol variation display is finished. It is a time width (stop display time) for

(Normal symbol fixed display time determination table 1: FIG. 30)
FIG. 30 shows a normal symbol fixed display time determination table 1 according to the present embodiment. In the normal symbol fixed display time determination table 1 of the present embodiment, different fixed display times are set according to the normal symbol determination data. Specifically, “0 ms” is determined as the fixed display time in the case of one to three per assistance, and “500 ms” is determined as the fixed display time in the case of loss. Yes. In the case of the present embodiment, if it is per assistance, the same fixed display time is determined regardless of the type of assistance. Therefore, in the process of step S654, when the result of lottery per assistance is “per assistance”, “0 ms” is set as the fixed display time in the normal symbol accessory operation timer, and the result of lottery per assistance is “lost”. In some cases, “500 ms” is set as the fixed display time in the normal symbol accessory operation timer (step S654). In the present embodiment, as described above, since the common fixed display time is set when the number of assists is 1 to 3, the assist perception determination flag is simply determined. “0 ms” may be set in the case of flag = 5 AH), and “500 ms” may be set in the case of loss (auxiliary hit determination flag ≠ 5 AH).

  In the present embodiment, as described above, a different fixed display time T is set according to the result of the lottery per assistance, and in particular, in the case of auxiliary, the confirmation is sufficiently shorter than the case of loss. A display time T (including T = 0) is set. In other words, after the normal symbol variation display operation is completed, in the case of assistance, the execution timing of the ordinary open game is started earlier in time than in the case of losing. The reason for this is closely related to open-game games, and will be described later after the explanation of the ordinary electric utility management process (FIG. 15) to be described later for convenience of explanation (FIG. 34 to be described later). reference).

  Next, the normal symbol operation status is switched to “confirming (03H)” (03H is stored in the normal symbol operation status) (step S655), and 00H (OFF state) is stored in the normal symbol changing flag (step S656). .

  Next, normal symbol confirmation time processing is performed (step S657). The contents of the “normal symbol confirmation time processing” are those of the normal symbol confirmation time processing in step S608 executed when the normal symbol operation status is “confirming (03H)” in the normal symbol management of FIG. Is the same. Details of the normal symbol confirmation time process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  When the processing during the normal symbol confirmation time is completed, the normal symbol variation stop setting process is exited, the normal symbol display data update process (step S609 in FIG. 8) is performed, the normal symbol management process is exited, and the normal electric combination The process proceeds to the object management process (step S058 in FIG. 7).

(8-4. Normal symbol confirmation time processing (variation stop processing): FIG. 13)
Next, the normal symbol confirmation time process (step S608) will be described. FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing details of the normal symbol confirmation time processing (step S608) of FIG.

  In FIG. 13, the CPU 201 first determines whether or not the normal symbol accessory operation timer is zero (step S671). The “determined display time” is set in the normal symbol accessory operation timer here (see step S654 in FIG. 12). Until the normal symbol accessory operation timer becomes zero (step S671: NO), the normal symbol confirmation time is exited without doing anything.

  If the normal symbol character action timer becomes zero (step S671: YES), the normal symbol action status is switched to “standby (01H)”, assuming that the normal symbol fluctuation display game is finished (normal symbol action). (01H is stored in the status) (step S672).

  Next, an auxiliary hit determination flag is acquired, and the state of the auxiliary hit determination flag is determined (step S674). If it is determined in step S674 that the auxiliary hit determination flag is ON (= 5 AH) (step S674: = 5 AH), various setting processes when the auxiliary hit symbol is stopped are performed (step S675). In the various setting processes at the time of stoppage of the auxiliary hits, 00H (OFF state) is stored in the auxiliary hit determination flag, and 5AH (ON state) is stored in the normal variation winning device operation flag as the pre-start process of the open-air game. Then, the process is terminated during the normal symbol confirmation time.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S674 that the auxiliary hit determination flag is in the OFF state (≠ 5AH) (step S674: ≠ 5AH), that is, if it is a loss, various setting processes when stopping the auxiliary hit symbol are not performed The process is exited during the normal symbol confirmation time.

  As described above, when the normal symbol confirmation time is over, the normal symbol display data update processing in step S609 in FIG. 8 is performed, and then the normal symbol management processing is exited, and the ordinary electric equipment management in step S058 in FIG. Proceed to processing.

("Process during normal symbol confirmation time (step in FIG. 12) executed in the normal symbol variation stop time setting process (step S663 in FIG. 12) of the normal symbol variation processing (step S685 in FIG. 11)”) S657) ”
Here, in order to facilitate understanding of the present invention, the operation of the normal symbol confirmation time processing in step S657 executed during the normal symbol fluctuation stop time setting processing (step S663) in FIG. 12 will be described. Keep it.

  Referring to FIG. 12 and FIG. 13, when the fixed display time “0 ms” is selected by the processing of step S653 of FIG. 13) is the following processing content.

  When the processing during the normal symbol confirmation time in step S657 (FIG. 13) is entered, it is first determined whether or not the normal symbol accessory operation timer is zero (step S671 in FIG. 13). Since the accessory operation timer is set to “zero” by the processing of steps S653 to S654 of FIG. 12, the determination processing result of step S671 is “YES (definite display time elapses)”, and the normal symbol operation status is “ It is switched to “waiting (01H)” (step S672). In addition, since this time is an auxiliary win, the determination processing result in step S674 is “= 5AH”, and various setting processing at the time of stopping the auxiliary hit symbol in step S675 is performed, and the normal variation winning device operating flag is set to 5AH (ON state). It is said. Thereby, without waiting for the normal symbol confirmation time processing (step S608 in FIG. 8) during the normal symbol management processing in the next interrupt processing, that is, without waiting for 4 ms, the subsequent normal motor combination in the current interrupt processing. In the object management process (steps S058 and FIG. 15 in FIG. 7), the processes in steps S683 to S686 (the process route of “= 5AH” in step S674) are executed, and immediately after the normal symbol variation display is finished, the general electric open game Will be executed. Therefore, the fixed display time can be set to “0 ms” correctly (without interposing 4 ms).

  In the present embodiment, the common symbol confirmation time processing in step S657 in FIG. 12 and the normal symbol confirmation time processing in step S608 in FIG. 8 are configured as a common processing module. Program structure is used. Thereby, the amount of programs and the amount of memory can be reduced, and the control burden can be reduced.

  Thus, in the present embodiment, during the “normal symbol variation stop setting process (step S663 in FIG. 12)” of the normal symbol variation processing (FIG. 11), the normal symbol confirmation time processing (in FIG. 13) is executed, and without waiting for the “normal symbol confirmation time processing (step S608 in FIG. 8)” in the next interrupt processing, the control processing ( Step S058 of FIG. 7, FIG. 15) is executed. As a result, there is a problem that 4 ms which is the waiting time of the next interrupt processing is interposed after the normal symbol stop display is started, that is, the fixed display time of 4 ms is substantially reduced. It is possible to eliminate the existence and to reliably set the fixed display time to “0 ms”.

  If the normal symbol confirmation time processing in step S657 of FIG. 12 is not executed, as described above, 4 ms which is the waiting time for the next interrupt processing is involved before the start of the open-game game. However, if the fixed display time is in the order of milliseconds (for example, about 0 ms <T ≦ 10 ms), it is considered that there is no problem even if the fixed display time is regarded as zero. Details of this will be described later with reference to FIG.

(8-5. Ordinary electric equipment management process: FIG. 15)
Next, the ordinary electric accessory management process (step S058) in FIG. 7 will be described. FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing details of the ordinary electric accessory management process in step S058.

  In FIG. 15, the CPU 201 first determines the state of the normal variation winning device operation flag (step S681). When the normal variation winning apparatus operating flag is in the OFF state (≠ 5AH) (step S681: ≠ 5AH), that is, when the normal power open game is not being performed, nothing is done and the normal electric utility management process is exited.

  On the other hand, when the normal variation winning apparatus operating flag is in the ON state (= 5AH) (step S681: = 5AH), that is, when the normal electric open game is in progress, the normal electric accessory operation status (00H, 01H, 02H, 04H) A process related to the open-circuit game according to the process is performed (step S682: normal electric accessory status branching process). The “ordinary electric accessory operation status” is a status value indicating the behavior of the ordinary variable winning device 41, and this status value is changed according to the processing state and stored in the ordinary electric accessory operation status storage area of the RAM 203. Is done.

  In the ordinary electric accessory operation status branching process in step S682, a process corresponding to the ordinary electric accessory operation status value is called and executed. Specifically, when the normal electric accessory operation status is “starting process (00H)”, the auxiliary hit start process (step S683) is performed. In the case where the electric accessory activation start process (step S684) is in operation (02H), the normal electric accessory activation process (step S685) is in progress. The winning end process (step S686) is called and executed. By these processes, the operation of the normal variation winning device 41 related to the open-circuit game is controlled. Here, “starting process (00H)” indicates that the system is in a standby state before the start of the general electric game, and “operation starting process (01H)” indicates that the general electric circuit is started and normally fluctuates. This indicates that the movable wing piece 47 of the winning device 41 is in a standby state before being opened, and “operating (02H)” indicates that a general electric open game is being executed, and “ending process (04H)”. Indicates that the end process at the end of the open-game game is in progress. When one of the processes in steps S683 to S686 is finished, the normal electric accessory management process is exited, and the process proceeds to the special symbol management process in step S059 of FIG.

<8. Common Electric Open Game Control Process (Steps S683 to S686)>
Below, the process of step S683-S686 which concerns on the above-mentioned general electric open game is demonstrated in order.

(8-5-1. Auxiliary hit start processing: S683)
At the start of the open-circuit game, the normal electric accessory operation status is set to the initial status value “starting process (00H)”. Therefore, when it comes to the assistance hit, this assistance hit start process is first performed.

  Here, as the setting process at the start of the open-circuit game, which is necessary when starting the open-circuit game, first, the normal electric accessory operation status is switched to “Activating start process (01H)”. 01H is stored in the status), and the “start interval time” is stored in the normal symbol accessory operation timer. This “start interval time” is an interval section from when the regular symbol fixed display time elapses and the auxiliary hit is fixed until the normal variable winning device 41 operates. Here, a common start interval time (here, 20 ms) is set as the start interval time regardless of the type of assistance.

  Next, an “auxiliary hitting start interval command” instructing the start of the open-game game is transmitted to the effect control unit 24, and the auxiliary hitting start process is exited, and the process proceeds to the special symbol management process in step S059 of FIG. By using the “auxiliary hit start interval command”, it is possible to make a hitting effect (substantial hitting effect) appearable with the start of the open-circuit game.

  In the case of the present embodiment, when placed in a state without electric support, the operating rate of the movable wing piece 47 becomes a “low base game state”, and due to a fall direction changing member such as a game nail, The game ball is hardly guided to the start port 34 side or is not guided. Therefore, in the absence of the electric support, when the player aims the launch position on the normal symbol start opening 37 side of the right flow down path 3c, the gameability is particularly disadvantageous. For this reason, the player starts the game by aiming the launch position on the left flow path 3b in the absence of the electric support, and usually the player proceeds (by misfiring or deliberately aiming at the right flow path 3c side). Unless otherwise), the game ball will not normally pass through the symbol start opening 37. However, in the case of the type in which the normal symbol starting port 37 is formed only in the left flow path 3b or in both the downstream flow paths, it can pass through the normal symbol starting port 37 even in the absence of electric support. There may be a case where a lottery per assistance is executed and a public power open game is executed. In the case of such a configuration, it is preferable to notify the player that the open-game game has occurred and to encourage the lower start opening 35 to win a prize positively. Therefore, when the above-mentioned “sub assistance start interval command” is used and the production control unit 24 receives the command, the production during the assistance is made to appear, and the player is notified that the open-game game has occurred. can do.

  In addition, the auxiliary start start interval command may include information that can specify the type of auxiliary winning (1 to 3 per auxiliary) selected this time. In this case, since the production | presentation control part 24 can grasp | ascertain the classification | type of assistance per win elected this time, it can comprise so that the production | presentation during different assistance hits can each be performed corresponding to 1-3 per assistance. In addition, when a long opening with 3 assists is performed, a normal open game that is more advantageous to the player than when a middle opening with 1 or 2 assists or a short opening is performed due to the opening time. Focusing on this point, in the case of 3 per assistance, a special per assistance effect different from 1-2 per assistance is displayed, or only in the case of 3 assistance per effect You may comprise as follows.

  In addition, when placed in a state where there is electric support, it is placed under a “high base game state” in which the operating rate of the movable wing piece 47 is increased, which is advantageous to the player than in a state where there is no electric support. Can occur frequently. For this reason, it is not necessary to make the effect during the assistance hit, and if the effect during the achievement is made to appear once every time the assistance is made, the player may feel troublesome. Therefore, it is preferable to have a configuration in which an effect during the auxiliary hit is not displayed when the electric support is present.

(8-5-2. Normal Electric Equipment Operation Start Processing: Step S684)
Next, the ordinary electric accessory operation start process (step S684) will be described.

  Here, first, it is determined whether or not the normal symbol accessory operation timer is zero. Here, the “start interval time (20 ms)” of the auxiliary hit start process (step S683) is set in the normal symbol accessory operation timer. Until the normal symbol accessory operation timer reaches zero, the normal electric accessory operation start processing is exited without doing anything.

  When the normal symbol accessory operation timer is zero, that is, when the opening interval time has elapsed, the opening / closing operation pattern of the lower start port 35 corresponding to the normal symbol determination data (type per auxiliary) is set. Specifically, the start opening / closing operation time for opening / closing the lower start opening 35 is stored in the normal symbol accessory operation timer, and the solenoid for controlling the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 41c (movable blade piece 47) is stored. Set control data. The solenoid control data set here is used in the solenoid management process (step S064) in FIG.

  With respect to the start opening / closing operation time, for example, the lower start opening 35 is opened as “open state 1.8 seconds → closed state 1 second → open state 1.8 seconds → closed state 1 second + open state 1.8 seconds”. In the case of a pattern, “7.4 seconds” of the total time required for this series of opening / closing operation patterns corresponds to the start opening / closing operation time, and this value is set as an initial value in the normal symbol accessory operation timer. As for the solenoid control data, the normal symbol accessory operation timer is monitored for each interrupt process, and the solenoid control data corresponding to the normal symbol accessory operation timer value is set (lower start port opening / closing operation setting processing). If this solenoid control data is in the ON state (5AH), the excitation signal output for solenoid control (start port opening) is designated, and if it is in the OFF state (00H), the excitation signal output is stopped (start port open / closed). ) Is specified. As a result, the normal electric accessory solenoid 41c is operated in a predetermined pattern, and the lower start opening 35 is opened / closed with the start opening / closing operation time as an upper limit.

  Here, 00H is stored (cleared to zero) in the lower starting port winning number counter for counting the winning balls of the lower starting port 35, and the normal electric accessory operating status is switched to “active (02H)” (normal 02H is stored in the operation status of the electric accessory). As a result, the normal electric accessory operation start process is exited, and the process proceeds to the special symbol management process in step S059 of FIG.

(8-5-3. Processing during operation of normal electric accessory: step S685)
Next, the process during operation of the ordinary electric accessory (step S685) will be described.

  Here, first, the number of winning balls in the lower starting opening 35 is counted, and the lower starting opening maximum winning number confirmation process is performed to check whether or not the number of winning balls has reached the maximum winning number (for example, 10). Then, the lower start port opening / closing operation setting process similar to the above-described normal electric accessory operation start process (step S684) is performed.

  In the lower start opening maximum winning number confirmation process, when the number of winning balls reaches the maximum winning number, the normal symbol accessory operation timer is cleared. As a result, the normal symbol accessory operation timer set in the normal electric accessory operation start process (step S684) is forcibly set to zero, and the maximum winning number is reached. A series of opening / closing operations are forcibly terminated. However, until the normal symbol accessory operation timer reaches zero (until the start winning port opening / closing operation time elapses or the maximum winning number is reached), this normal electric accessory operation processing is performed without doing anything. Exit.

  If the normal symbol accessory operation timer reaches zero (when the maximum number of winnings has been reached or when the start winning opening opening / closing operation time has elapsed), it is assumed that the series of opening / closing operations of the lower starting opening 35 has been completed. Various setting processes at the end of the open game are performed. In the various setting processes at the end of the open-circuit game, “end interval time (for example, 20 ms)” is stored in the normal symbol accessory operation timer, and the normal electric accessory operation status is set to “ending processing (04H)”. Switch (stores 04H in normal electric accessory operation status). Then, an “auxiliary per-completion end interval command” instructing the end of the general electric power open game is transmitted to the effect control unit 24, and the process of exiting the normal electric accessory operation is performed, and the special symbol management process in step S 059 of FIG. 7 is performed. move on. The “subsidiary end interval command” includes information on the type of sub-subsidence this time, and when the effect control unit 24 displays an effect at the end of the open-circuit game in the auxiliary decorative symbol variation display game. Can be used. As a result, the process of exiting the normal electric accessory operation is skipped, and the process proceeds to the special symbol management process of step S059 of FIG.

(8-5-4. Completion process per assistance: step S686)
Next, the assistance hit end process (step S686) will be described.

  Here, first, it is determined whether or not the normal symbol accessory operation timer is zero. Since the above-mentioned end interval time is set in the normal symbol accessory operation timer here, it is determined whether or not this end interval time has elapsed. Until the normal symbol accessory operation timer becomes zero, nothing is done and the auxiliary hit end process is terminated, and the process proceeds to the special symbol management process in step S059 of FIG.

  When the normal symbol accessory operation timer reaches zero (the end interval time has elapsed), the setting process at the end of the auxiliary hit is performed. Here, 00H (OFF state) is stored as the normal variation winning device operation flag, and the normal electric accessory operation status is switched to “Starting process (00H)” (00H is stored as the normal electric accessory operation status). When the above-described auxiliary hit ending process is completed, a series of control processes related to the open-circuit game are completed. In addition, the general electric open game of the present embodiment is roughly divided into game periods of a start interval time, a lower start opening / closing operation execution period (start opening / closing operation time), and an end interval time. The lower start port opening / closing operation execution period excluding “start interval time” and / or “end interval time” in which the start port 35 is closed may be regarded as a general electric open game period.

  When the subtraction end process is exited as described above, the process proceeds to the special symbol management process in step S059 of FIG.

(Y-1. Execution timing of open-circuit game: Fig. 34)
Next, with reference to FIG. 34, the execution timing of the open electric game according to the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 34 is a time chart showing temporal changes in the normal symbol variation display operation and the normal variation prize winning device 41 operation (opening / closing operation of the lower start opening 35).

  Here, FIG. 34A shows an example of normal symbol variation display operation at the time of a loss and an example of the operation of the ordinary variation winning device 41, and FIG. 34B shows an ordinary symbol variation display operation at the time of assistance in the conventional example. FIG. 34C shows an example of normal symbol variation display operation at the time of assistance and an example of operation of the ordinary variation winning device 41 in this embodiment. In FIG. 34, in order to simplify the description, the operation from the end of the current normal symbol variation display to the start of the next variation display operation is shown as a representative example. In addition, as a representative example of the open-game game, the lower start opening 35 is opened twice with a predetermined start winning opening opening / closing operation time as an upper limit.

(For Y-2. Loss case: FIG. 34 (A))
First, with reference to FIG. 34 (A), a description will be given of a variation display operation of a normal symbol and an operation example of the normal variation winning device 41 during a loss. The variation display operation of the normal symbol and the operation example of the normal variation winning apparatus 41 at the time of losing in the present embodiment are substantially the same as those of the conventional example.

  Referring to FIG. 34 (A), when the normal symbol variation display ends, the normal symbol indicating the loss is stopped and displayed at time t0, and the normal symbol action is performed as the normal symbol fixed display time (stop display time). “500 ms” is set in the timer (YES processing route in step S661 in FIG. 11, step S654 in FIG. 12, FIG. 30). Then, until the normal symbol accessory operation timer becomes zero (time t1), that is, until the fixed display time of 500 ms elapses, the normal symbol indicating the above-mentioned loss (lost normal stop symbol) is stopped and displayed (FIG. 13). (See NO processing route in step S671). The fixed display time set at the time of this loss is secured to the player as a time width that can sufficiently recognize the result of the lottery per assistance this time, and the time width is approximately 500 ms or more. The

  When this fixed display time elapses (time t4), the series of variable display operations related to the current normal symbol is finished, and the open-game game is not executed (the process of “≠ 5AH” in step S674 in FIG. 13). Route, the processing route of “≠ 5AH” in step S681 in FIG. 15), if there is a normal symbol operation holding ball, at the time t5 when the next main control side interrupt processing (FIG. 7) is executed, the next normal The process related to the symbol variable display operation (the normal symbol management process in FIG. 7 (step S057), FIG. 8) is executed, and the new normal symbol variable display is started. If there is no normal symbol actuated hold ball, the normal symbol change display will not start until a new normal symbol actuated hold ball is generated (standby state). The symbol remains stopped and displayed on the normal symbol display device 39 (the processing route of step S606 (standby 01H) in FIG. 8, the processing route of “NO” in step S611 of FIG. 9).

(Y-3. Case of assistance per unit in the conventional example: FIG. 34 (B))
Next, with reference to FIG. 34 (B), the normal symbol fluctuation display operation and the operation example of the normal fluctuation winning device 41 at the time of assisting in the conventional example will be described. In this conventional example, the operation from the time t0 to the time t1 at which the fixed display time elapses from the end of the normal symbol variation display operation to the start of the open-circuit game, that is, substantially the same as the above-described loss time. The same control contents will be described while being omitted as appropriate in order to avoid duplication.

(Opening of the public train: Time t1 to time t2)
When the fixed display time elapses (time t1), the series of variable display operations related to the normal symbol this time is finished, and the general electric open game is started (the processing route of “= 5AH” in step S674 in FIG. 13, FIG. (Refer to the processing route of '= 5AH' in step S681 of 15). However, in this example, the normal symbol that is stopped and displayed during the fixed display time is the normal symbol indicating the supplement per unit (normal sub unit per sub unit: in the case of this embodiment, the sub unit per sub unit (sub unit 1 to 3) is stopped and displayed per auxiliary stop normal stop symbol).

  In the open train game, first, 20 ms is set as the start interval time before the opening operation of the lower start opening 35 (step S683 in FIG. 15), and at the time t2 after the start interval time elapses, the normal variation winning device 41 The movable blade piece 47 starts an opening / closing operation with a predetermined opening / closing operation pattern (in this embodiment, an opening / closing operation pattern corresponding to the type of assist per contact) (step S684 in FIG. 15).

(Under the open-air game: time t2 to time t3)
From time t2 to time t3, the movable blade piece 47 is controlled with a predetermined opening / closing operation pattern to open / close the lower start opening 35 (step S685 in FIG. 15). As a result, as shown in FIG. 34 (B), the opening operation of the lower start port 35 is started at time t2, and the lower start port 35 is opened twice with the predetermined start winning opening / closing operation time as an upper limit. Mouth opening / closing operation "is executed. When the start winning opening opening / closing operation time elapses or the number of winnings in the lower starting opening 35 reaches the maximum winning number, a series of opening / closing operations of the lower starting opening 35 ends (time t3). As a result, the lower start port 35 is closed, making it difficult or impossible to win the lower start port 35.

(At the end of the open-air game: time t3 to time t4)
When the opening / closing operation of the lower start opening 35 is finished at time t3, 20 ms is set as the end interval time, and when this end interval time has elapsed (time t4), a series of operations related to the open-circuit game is finished (FIG. 15). Step S686).

(After the opening of the public train: time t5)
Thereafter, if there is a normal symbol operation holding ball, at the time t5 (after 4 ms) when the next main control side interrupt processing (FIG. 7) is executed (FIG. 7), processing related to the next normal symbol variation display operation (FIG. 7). The middle normal symbol management process (step S057) and FIG. 8) is executed, and a new normal symbol variation display is started. If there is no normal symbol actuated hold ball, the normal symbol change display will not start until a new normal symbol actuated hold ball is generated (standby state), which triggered the execution of the current open game The normal stop symbol corresponding to the assist per unit remains stopped and displayed on the normal symbol display device 39 (the processing route of “= 5AH” in step S604 of FIG. 8 executed after the normal stop symbol stop per assist ( (Processing route detouring from S606 to S608), step S675 in FIG. In other words, the normal stop symbol per assistance remains stopped and displayed on the normal symbol display device 39 until the execution of the current open-game game is completed and the variable display with the new normal symbol operation holding ball is started. ing.

(Y-4. Conventional problems)
Here, in the above-described conventional example, when it is per assistance, a fixed display time of 500 ms is set after the normal symbol fluctuation display is finished, and after waiting for this to elapse, the ordinary open game is executed. It has come to be. Therefore, even if the normal symbol is stopped and displayed, the lower start opening 35 is not immediately put into the winning easy state. For this reason, even if a game ball reaches the lower start opening 35 during the fixed display time of 500 ms, the lower start opening 35 does not win, the game ball is “dead ball (without winning the winning opening, Game balls discharged from the out port 49 (waste balls)) ”, causing the player's handball to decrease.

  In addition, for gaming machines that are installed in pachinko parlors, specifically, for gaming machines that are subject to No. 7 sales under the Act on Regulation of Customs Sales and Business Optimization, etc. According to the rules relating to the type test, the launching performance of the game ball launching device (in this embodiment, the launching device 32 corresponds) is such that it can launch game balls one by one. It is stipulated that it is not possible to launch more than 100 game balls (technical standards related to pachinko gaming machines attached to the same table of the same rule (Article 6)). You must adhere strictly. In the conventional ball game machine, due to the presence of the fixed display time, there is an influence of a falling direction changing member such as a game nail, but a ball can be generated in about one to two deaths. Therefore, more spheres can be generated in the death between the start of the normal symbol variation display game and the start of the general electric open game (opening of the lower start opening 35).

  In particular, when the game state is accompanied by an “electric support state (high base game state)” such as a short-time state or a probability change state, the winning rate for the lower start opening 35 can be significantly improved as compared to the normal game state. Since it is in a “high base game state (state in which the operating rate of the movable wing piece 47 is improved)”, many beginners of the game are interested in winning a game ball in the lower start opening 35 that is frequently opened. The actual situation is that the game ball continues to be fired regardless of whether the normal symbol is variably displayed or stopped. In such a 'electric support state', in the case where a sphere is dying as described above, the longer the time-short state or the probability variation state, the greater the number of spheres dying. Even in the “high base game state”, the handball was greatly reduced.

  On the other hand, an advanced game player who is familiar with the flow of the normal symbol variation display game, such as “the start timing of the open-circuit game is after the fixed display time has elapsed”, sets the shooting performance and the fixed display time of the shooting device 32. In consideration, during the fixed display time, the launch of the game ball is stopped so that the game ball does not reach the lower start opening 35, and the start timing of the next general electric open game (the opening timing of the lower start opening 35) is estimated. By making full use of the so-called “stopping” game technique, such as resuming the launch of a game ball, the number of handballs can be suppressed by eliminating the balls as much as possible, rather, creating a situation where the number of handballs can be increased. Was successful.

  Such technical interventions such as quitting have resulted in a large difference in profits between beginners and advanced players, resulting in inequalities among players.

  The existence of the fixed display time can also cause the following problems.

  When a game ball enters the lower start opening 35 (wins), a special symbol variation pattern (such as a special symbol variation time) based on the jackpot lottery result is determined in response to the winning. / The decorative symbol variation display game is executed. Here, when selecting the variation pattern of the special symbol, the number of the operation suspension balls may be considered as a selection condition. As a typical example, when the number of operation reservations is relatively small (for example, immediately before the start of the variation) When the number of pending operation balls is 1 to 2 (when the variation pattern is determined to be 0 to 1 (see steps S403 and S412)), when the number of pending operation is relatively large (for example, the operation immediately before the start of variation) The selection rate of the variation pattern having a long variation time is higher than when the number of retained balls is 3 to 4 (maximum number of reserved storage) (when the variation pattern is determined to be 2 to 3 (see steps S403 and S412)). For example, when the big hit lottery result is “losing” and the number of operation pending entries is 2 to 4, a short fluctuation pattern such as “normal fluctuation 1 s (variation time 1 second)” When the number of pending operation entries is 1 to 2, a long variation pattern such as “normal variation 8s (variation time 8 seconds)” having a variation time longer than that is selected. .

  In the case of such a model, when the player makes full use of the above-mentioned “stop-off” game technology in the short-time state or the probability-change state, the winning timing at the lower start opening 35 and the average of one open-game game A big bias can occur in the number of winnings. In more detail, if the game ball is in a state of being “struck down”, the game ball is constantly being fired, so there are relatively many winnings for the normal symbol start opening 37. As a result, there is a constant occurrence of the open-air game, and the timing and number of winnings to the lower start opening 35 are not largely biased. The special symbol variation display game is executed while maintaining the number of four active balls. However, when “stop hit” is fully utilized, the game ball is not always fired like “no hit”, and therefore, the number of winnings to the normal symbol start opening 37 decreases, Depending on the timing at which the lower start opening 35 opens and closes and the timing at which a game ball is aimed at, the timing of winning the winning line 35 and the number of winnings frequently occur. Therefore, a special symbol variation pattern is selected in a situation where there are one or two active reserve balls, or a special symbol variation pattern is selected in a situation where there are four active reserve balls. Long and short (variation time) can occur frequently.

  As a problem due to this, for example, there is a large difference in the digestion time of one special symbol variation display game between the case of using the “no-stop” and “stop” in the game period of 100 times of the short time. As a result, there is a large unevenness in the short-time digestion time (total time required to digest 100 time-short states), or the player's profit per unit time (for example, the average number of big hits per unit time (per unit time So-called “fluctuation unevenness” may occur. Such “fluctuation variation” refers to the rules regarding the recognition of the gaming machine and the type verification etc. regarding the player's profit (starting rate) (Article 6 of the technical standards related to pachinko gaming machines attached to the rules). (Related) (1) Performance standards (b) Standards for performance of gaming machines related to the acquisition of game balls, etc., setting values for launch rate when developing new models, and gauge design are difficult It was also a cause of problems such as becoming.

  Therefore, in this embodiment, in order to solve the above-described problems, regarding the normal symbol variation display operation, the fixed display time is set to “zero” and the normal symbol variation display game is started immediately after the normal symbol variation display game ends. The technical intervention effect and the like caused by the above-described stoppage are prevented. This will be described with reference to FIG.

(Y-5. Case of assistance per unit in this embodiment: FIG. 34 (C))
With reference to FIG. 34 (C), the normal symbol variation display operation and the operation variation of the ordinary variation winning apparatus 41 at the time of assistance according to the present embodiment will be described. Note that the control contents substantially the same as the operation example of the conventional example shown in FIG. 34B described above will be omitted as appropriate in order to avoid redundant description.

  The decisive difference between the operation example of this embodiment shown in FIG. 34C and the operation example of the conventional example shown in FIG. 34B is that the fixed display time is set to “zero” or “ 500 ms ”(see step S653 in FIG. 12, FIG. 30). Therefore, in the present embodiment, in the case of assistance, the following operation example is obtained.

(Opening of the public train: Time t0 to time t3)
Referring to FIG. 34C, in the case of the present embodiment, when the normal symbol fluctuation display (fluctuation display time) ends, the fixed display time is set to “zero”, and the auxiliary stop normal stop symbol is the normal symbol. The display device 39 is stopped and displayed, and the ordinary open game is immediately started. In this example, the normal train opening game starts at time t0 immediately after the end of the normal symbol variation display operation, and as shown in the drawing, the opening / closing operation of the lower start opening 35 is started at time t2 after the lapse of the 20 ms interval. The In this example, the lower start port 35 is opened 500 ms ahead of the conventional example (FIG. 34B).

  As described above, since the fixed display time at the time of assistance is zero, the interval period (start interval time) from when the normal symbol is stopped and displayed until the opening and closing operation of the lower start opening 35 is shortened to 20 ms. Therefore, even if a game beginner continues to fire a game ball, as in the conventional example, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of “dead ball” and fluctuation variation due to the fixed display time, and “ It can prevent the room for technical intervention by "stopping" action. The interval time described above is sufficiently shorter than the final display time (500 ms) at the time of loss, for example, “millisecond order (0 ms <T ≦ 10 ms) to about several tens of ms” or “zero”. Is preferred. This is because if the start interval time is relatively long (for example, about several hundred ms to 500 ms), the interval time from when the normal symbol is stopped and displayed until the lower start opening 35 is opened and closed becomes longer. This is because, even if the fixed display time is set to “zero”, there is still room for a stopping action.

  In addition, although it has been described that the fixed display time at the time of assistance is set to “zero”, a time sufficiently shorter than the fixed display time at the time of loss (500 ms), for example, a millisecond order (for example, If 0 ms <T ≦ 10 ms), the problem of the above-described conventional example can be placed under a situation where the problem can be prevented as much as possible. Therefore, it is considered that there is no problem even if the fixed display time is not necessarily set to “zero”.

(Opening of open-air game: time t3 to time t5)
After the time t3, as in the conventional example, when the opening / closing operation of the lower start port 35 is completed at the time t3, 20 ms is set as the end interval time. A series of operations related to is completed. Thereafter, if there is a normal symbol operation holding ball, at the time t5 (after 4 ms) when the next main control side interrupt processing (FIG. 7) is executed (FIG. 7), processing related to the next normal symbol variation display operation (FIG. 7). The middle normal symbol management process (step S057), FIG. 8) is executed, and a new normal symbol variation display is started.

  Note that when the fixed display time is set to zero as in this example, it is necessary to keep in mind that the player can sufficiently recognize the result of the current lottery per assistance according to the rules of the gaming machine. However, in the case of subsidy, since the normal power open game will be executed after the normal symbol variation display ends, as described above, during this general power open game, this normal symbol variation display game As a result, the “normally stopped symbol per auxiliary” is stopped and displayed on the normal symbol display device 39 (the processing route of “= 5AH” in step S604 in FIG. (Processing route detouring from S606 to S608), step S675 in FIG. Accordingly, if the open-to-electric game period is set to 500 ms or more, a time width in which the player can fully recognize the result of the lottery per assistance this time is secured. In the present embodiment, in consideration of this point, the shortest normal open game is “a short open (non-electric support state (normal game state or latent state)), which is executed due to winning of 1 per assist. The execution period of “electric release game” is set to be “500 ms or more (the opening time of the lower start opening 35 is 0.6 seconds (600 ms))”.

  Further, in the present embodiment, an example in which a plurality of types of auxiliary per unit (1 to 3 per auxiliary) is provided has been described.

(Y-6. Second embodiment: FIG. 31)
In the first embodiment, the example in which the fixed display time is “0 ms” regardless of the type of assistance is described. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and may be the following embodiment (second embodiment). Hereinafter, this second embodiment will be described.

  The difference between the second embodiment and the first embodiment is that the fixed display time is set to a common “0 ms” regardless of the type of assistance (1 to 3 per assistance) as in the first embodiment. Rather than a plurality of types of assistance (from 1 to 3 per assistance), in the case of a particular assistance, a fixed display time different from the fixed display time per other assistance, specifically, a specific assistance In this case, the same fixed display time “500 ms” as that of the loss is set, and “0 ms” is set in the case of other assistance. The configuration of the second embodiment is the same as the configuration of the first embodiment except that the “normal symbol fixed display time determination table 1” in FIG. The “time determination table 2” is referred to, and the other points are substantially the same as those of the first embodiment. Therefore, hereinafter, the normal symbol fixed display time determination table 2 will be mainly described, and description of other processing will be omitted as appropriate in order to avoid redundant description.

(Normal symbol fixed display time determination table 2: FIG. 31)
FIG. 31 shows a normal symbol fixed display time determination table 2 according to the present embodiment. The normal symbol fixed display time determination table 2 of the present embodiment is substantially the same as the configuration of the normal symbol fixed display time determination table 1. Here, out of 1 to 3 per assistance, the fixed display time corresponding to 1 per assistance (per assistance that triggers execution of short opening) is “500 ms”, and 2 to 3 per assistance (execution of middle opening or long opening) The fixed display time corresponding to “sub assistance as a trigger) is set to“ 0 ms ”.

  In the present embodiment, the fixed display time is set in the case of an auxiliary unit (hereinafter abbreviated as “low-profit auxiliary unit”) that triggers the execution of an open game with a relatively low profit state among a plurality of types of auxiliary units. The same “500 ms” as that of the loss is set. As described above, even if the fixed display time for the low profit subsidy is not set to “0 ms”, it is possible to suppress the profit difference between the players due to the stop as in the operation and effect of the first embodiment. it can. The reason is as follows.

  The first reason is that the fixed display time for the low profit subsidy is not set to “0 ms”, but the subsidy that triggers the execution of the open-circuit game with a relatively high profit state (hereinafter referred to as “high profit subsidy per The definite display time of “0 ms” is abbreviated as “0 ms”, and at least the stopping effect (difference in profit between players caused by stopping) can be reduced as compared with the conventional example. Also, as a second reason, which sub-wins are won, that is, which public open game is executed is determined by a lottery per lot, so it has randomness and low profit subsidy It is difficult to predict whether the winning will be won or the high profit subsidy will be won, and in the case of high profit subsidy, there will be no fixed display time and the open-circuit game will be executed immediately. It is very difficult to aim at the opening timing of the lower start opening 35 (the need for stopping is reduced). As a third reason, as in this embodiment, with respect to the sub-design lot per subsidy, the low-profit sub-unit is more than the high-profit sub-unit (here, the combined symbol selection rate of sub-subsidy 2 and sub-unit 3). If it is set at a low probability, it is easy to win a high profit subsidy, so you can not expect a great effect whether you do it or not. It becomes difficult to make full use of the game, and it is difficult to aim at the opening timing of the lower start opening 35. On the contrary, the number of winnings to the lower start opening 35 decreases and the action holding ball on the special figure 2 side is cut off. There is a point that the possibility of harmful effects such as

  The second embodiment described above can be configured as follows. When the first sub-per unit is selected from among a plurality of sub-units including at least the first sub-unit and the second sub-unit, the same fixed display time (500 ms) as that of the loss is set. When the winning per assist is won, the fixed display time is set to “0 ms”. Here, the “second sub-per unit” is a sub unit that triggers the execution of the open-air game with a profit state relatively higher than that of the first sub-unit. In other words, the second sub unit is The opening time of the lower start port 35 (lower start port open state time) is relatively longer than the first assist time, which is an auxiliary contact that triggers the execution of the general electric open game. In the present embodiment, it has been described that the fixed display time related to the “first auxiliary hit” is set to the same fixed display time (500 ms) as the loss, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, even if the fixed display time T is configured to satisfy the relationship of “0 ms <T <losing fixed display time (500 ms)”, the object of the present invention can be achieved and the effects of the present invention can be achieved. (The same applies to the fourth embodiment described later).

(Y-7. Third Embodiment: FIGS. 14 and 32)
In addition, the present invention can be set as the following embodiment (third embodiment).

  In the first and second embodiments described above, a fixed display is made regardless of the internal gaming state (gaming state determination number (YJ)) or gaming state (variable pattern allocation designation number (Tcode)). The form which sets time was demonstrated. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the fixed display time may be set in consideration of the internal gaming state (gaming state determination number (YJ)) or the gaming state (fluctuation pattern allocation designation number (Tcode)). it can.

  Here, the “gaming state determination number (YJ)” is data for identifying the internal gaming state. When the game state determination number (YJ) is “00H”, “normal gaming state (without electric support, low probability)”, and when “01H”, “latent state (without electric support, high accuracy)” In the case of “02H”, “time-short state (state with electric support, low probability)” is indicated, and “03H” indicates “probability change state (state with electric support, high probability)”. Therefore, the game state determination number (YJ) is different from the data for identifying the game state itself, such as the variation pattern assignment designation number (Tcode), in that it identifies the internal game state as described above.

  The third embodiment is different from the first or second embodiment in the processing contents of the normal symbol variation stop setting process (FIG. 12) relating to the determination of the fixed display time, and the other points are the first or the second. This is substantially the same as the second embodiment. Therefore, hereinafter, the normal symbol fluctuation stop setting process will be mainly described, and the description of the other processes will be omitted in order to avoid duplication.

(Normal symbol variation stop setting process according to the third embodiment: FIG. 14)
FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing details of the normal symbol variation stop setting process according to the present embodiment. Here, an example is shown in which the fixed display time is determined based on the gaming state determination number (YJ) instead of the variation pattern distribution designation number (Tcode). Steps S651 to S652 and S654 to S657 are substantially the same as the processing contents in the normal symbol variation stop setting process of FIG. 12, and will be described while being omitted as appropriate in order to avoid duplication.

  In FIG. 14, the CPU 201 first stores the normal symbol determination signal output time (for example, 100 ms) in the normal symbol determination timer (step S651).

  Next, normal symbol determination data is acquired (step S652), and a gaming state determination number (YJ) is acquired (step S652A). Then, based on the acquired data and the “normal symbol fixed display time determination table 3” shown in FIG. 32, the fixed display time is determined (step S653A).

(Normal symbol fixed display time determination table 3: FIG. 32)
FIG. 32 shows a normal symbol fixed display time determination table 3 according to the present embodiment. In the normal symbol fixed display time determination table 3, different fixed display times are determined according to the normal symbol determination data and the gaming state determination number (YJ).

  Specifically, as shown in the figure, when the number is 1 to 3 per assistance (when assistance is provided), the game state determination number (YJ) (internal game state) is “normal state (00H)” or In the case of “latent probability state (01H)”, “500 ms” is determined as the fixed display time, and the game state determination number (YJ) is “time-short state (02H)” or “probability changed state (03H)”. ””, “0 ms” is determined as the fixed display time. In other words, in the case of sub-subsidy, “500 ms” is determined as the fixed display time if it is under “no electric support”, and if it is under “electric support”, it is fixed. “0 ms” is determined as the display time. In addition, when determining the fixed display time based on the variation pattern allocation designation number (Tcode) instead of the game state determination number (YJ), the configuration of the normal symbol fixed display time determination table 3 is changed to the variation pattern allocation. If the designated number (Tcode) is “normal (00H)”, “latent state (02H)”, or “CZ (06H)”, “500 ms” is determined as the final display time, The table configuration may be such that “0 ms” is determined as the fixed display time if “01H” or “time saving state (03H)”. Further, when based on the variation pattern allocation designation number (Tcode), the current variation pattern allocation designation number (Tcode) may be acquired in the process of step S652.

  However, in the case of losing, the fixed display time is determined to be “500 ms” regardless of the game state determination number (YJ) type (or the variation pattern distribution designation number (Tcode)).

  Next, the fixed display time determined in the process of step S653A is stored in the normal symbol accessory operation timer (step S654).

  Next, the normal symbol operation status is switched to “confirming (03H)” (03H is stored in the normal symbol operation status) (step S655), and 00H (OFF state) is stored in the normal symbol changing flag (step S656). . Then, the normal symbol confirmation time processing is performed (step S657), thereby exiting the normal symbol fluctuation stop setting processing and performing the normal symbol display data update processing (step S609 in FIG. 8).

  In the present embodiment, paying attention to the fact that the “stopping” action is used under the “electric support” state, which is the “high base gaming state”, Regardless of the setting, “500 ms” is set as the fixed display time. However, in the case of “with electric support”, “0 ms” is set as the fixed display time only in the case of assistance. As described above, even when the fixed display time is set to “0 ms” in the case of “subsidiary support” in the “electric support” state, the object of the present invention is achieved (the above-described conventional problems are solved), and the operational effects of the present invention are achieved. Can be played. In the present embodiment, an example in which a plurality of types of auxiliary per unit (1 to 3 per auxiliary) is provided has been described, but one type of auxiliary per unit (for example, only 3 per auxiliary) may be provided.

  The third embodiment described above can be configured as follows. When the hit game is finished (when a specific big hit (win game) is finished), a bonus game state (high base game state) is executed as a bonus game state (high base game state), which is advantageous to the player as compared to the auxiliary game in the normal game state. Reward gaming state that can be played (at least a game state in which the extended extension function is activated), or a special gaming state with a normal symbol high probability state that draws a game per assistance with a higher probability than the predetermined probability of the normal gaming state (A game state in which at least the normal symbol probability changing function is in operation) is further provided, and if a lottery is selected to execute a per-assistance game during the bonus game state, the final display time is determined as the final display time. A time sufficiently shorter than the display time (here, 500 ms) or zero is set. Further, when a lottery is executed to execute a game per assistance during a gaming state other than the above-mentioned privilege gaming state, the same time as the confirmed display time at the time of losing can be set as the confirmed display time.

(Y-8. Fourth embodiment: FIG. 33)
Further, as a modification (fourth embodiment) of the third embodiment described above, the normal symbol fixed display time determination table 3 shown in FIG. 32 may be replaced with the “normal symbol fixed display time determination table 4” shown in FIG. good.

(Normal symbol fixed display time determination table 4: FIG. 33)
FIG. 33 shows a normal symbol fixed display time determination table 4 according to this modification. The normal symbol fixed display time determination table 4 has the same basic configuration as the normal symbol fixed display time determination table 3. The normal symbol fixed display time determination table 3 shown in FIG. 32 is different from the normal symbol fixed display time determination table 4 shown in FIG. In the case of 1) per assistance, the fixed display time is determined to be “500 ms” regardless of the game state determination number (YJ) type. In the fourth embodiment, the fixed display time associated with 1 per assist is set to the same fixed display time (500 ms) as the loss. The reason for this is the same as in the second embodiment (see FIG. 31). ), Out of 1 to 3 per assistance, it is substantially the same as the reason for setting the fixed display time related to 1 per assistance to the same fixed display time (500 ms) as the loss. The detailed explanation is omitted.

  In the first to fourth embodiments relating to the normal symbol described above, an example in which the type of loss is one type has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and a plurality of types of loss may be provided. In this case, a fixed display time corresponding to the loss type can be determined. However, it is preferable that the fixed display time of each losing is a time width that allows the player to sufficiently recognize that it is a losing (for example, all are set to about 500 ms or more). Further, in the present embodiment, the winning probability per assistance is “1/251” in the low probability state, for example, and is higher in the high probability state (ordinary probability variation state), for example “250/251 (251). However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, in a low probability state, it may be configured not to win per assist (the winning probability per assist is zero). In this case, only in a high-probability state, a configuration for winning per assistance, specifically, in the normal gaming state, no open-electric game is executed, and only in a short-time state or a probable state, Can be executed. Even if it does in this way, the objective of this invention can be achieved and there can exist the effect of this invention. In addition, the open mode game mode is configured so that the same game mode is executed in a gaming state in which the winning probability per assist is in a low probability state and in a gaming state in which the winning probability per assist is in a high probability state. be able to. For example, it is possible to set the game mode in which the electric power is released in the gaming state in which the winning probability per assist is in the low probability state to the same game mode as the game mode in which the open extension function is activated as described in the first embodiment. it can. In this case, regardless of whether the winning probability per assistance is in a low probability state or a high probability state, it is not necessary to provide an open extension function, which leads to a reduction in the control burden on the main control unit 20. Even if it does in this way, the objective of this invention can be achieved and there can exist the effect of this invention.

(9. Special symbol management process: Fig. 16)
Next, the special symbol management process (step S059) in FIG. 7 will be described. FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing details of the special symbol management process in step S059.

  In FIG. 16, the CPU 201 first performs a special figure 1 start port check process on the special symbol 1 side (upper start port 34 side) (step S301), and then a special symbol on the special symbol 2 side (lower start port 35 side). 2. A starting port check process is performed (step S302). The details of the special figure 1 start opening check process and the special figure 2 start opening check process will be described later with reference to FIGS.

  When the start opening check process in steps S301 to S302 is completed, the state of the small hitting flag is determined (step S303). This “small hitting flag” is a flag for designating whether or not a small hit game is in progress, and when the flag is in the ON state (= 5 AH), it indicates that a small hit game is in progress. When the flag is in the OFF state (= 00H), it indicates that the small hit game is not being played.

  When the small hitting flag is in the OFF state (= 00H) (step S303: ≠ 5AH), the state of the condition device operation flag is then determined (step S304). The “conditional device operation flag” is a flag for designating whether or not a big hit game is being played. When the flag is in an ON state (= 5 AH), it indicates that a big hit game is being played. When the flag is in the OFF state (= 00H), it indicates that the big hit game is not being played.

  If the condition device operation flag is in the OFF state (= 00H) (step S304: ≠ 5AH), that is, neither the small hit game nor the big hit game (step S303: ≠ 5AH and step S304: ≠ 5AH), special In accordance with the symbol operation status (00H to 03H), processing related to the special symbol variation display operation is performed (step S305: special symbol operation status branching process). On the other hand, when the small hit game is being played (step S303: = 5 AH) or the big hit game is being played (step S304: = 5 AH), the processing relating to the special symbol variable display operation in steps S306 to S308 is not performed. It progresses to the special symbol display data update process of step S309. Therefore, when either the small hit game or the big hit game, the special symbol variation display operation is not performed (the special symbol display state of the special symbol display device is displayed after the small hit or after the big hit) As it is). The “special symbol operation status” is a status value indicating the behavior of the special symbol. This status value is changed according to the processing state and stored in the special symbol operation status storage area of the RAM 203.

  In the special symbol operation status branching process of step S305, depending on which status value the special symbol operation status is “waiting (00H, 01H)”, “changing (02H)” or “confirming (03H)”. The processing corresponding to each is executed.

  Specifically, when the special symbol operation status is “standby (00H, 01H)”, the special symbol variation start process (step S306) is performed. When the symbol variation processing (step S307) is “confirming (03H)”, the special symbol confirmation time processing (step S308) is executed. Here, “Waiting” indicates that the behavior of the special symbol is in a standby state for the next change, and “Waiting” indicates that the behavior of the special symbol is changing (variation display). The above-mentioned “under confirmation” indicates that the special symbol variation display is finished and the stop (determined) display is in progress (during the special symbol confirmation time). By these processes, a change display operation that sets a change start and stop of the special symbol as one set is realized. Details of the special symbol variation start processing (step S306: FIG. 19), the special symbol variation processing (step S307: FIG. 21), and the special symbol confirmation time processing (step S308: FIGS. 22A to 22B) are as follows. It will be described later.

  When any of the processes in steps S306 to S308 is completed, the special symbol display data update process in step S309 is performed. In this special symbol display data update processing, it is determined whether or not the special symbol is fluctuating. If the special symbol is not changing, stop display data (7-segment blink display data during special symbol stop display) is created. The special symbol display data created here is output in the LED management process (step S062) of FIG. Accordingly, the special symbol management process is exited, and the process proceeds to the special electric accessory management process in step S060 of FIG.

(9-1. Special Figure 1 Starting Port Check Processing: FIG. 17)
First, the special figure 1 starting port check process (step S301 in FIG. 16) will be described. FIG. 17 is a flow chart showing details of the special figure 1 starting port check process in step S301. This special figure 1 start opening check process serves as a winning time process (special figure side winning time process) executed based on the establishment of a predetermined starting condition. Here, the special symbol variation display game 1 is executed. As a pre-start process for performing the above, an addition process of the number of reserved balls on the special figure 1 side caused by the occurrence of winning at the upper start port 34, a process of storing various random numbers, a process of creating a hold addition command, and the like are performed. The special figure 2 starting port check process (step S302 in FIG. 16), which will be described later, also serves as a winning process executed based on the establishment of a predetermined starting condition, like the special figure 1 starting port check process. As the pre-start process for executing the symbol variation display game 2 (special figure 2 side winning process), the special pending figure 2 side operation pending ball number addition process caused by the occurrence of winning at the lower start opening 35, various random numbers The storage processing and the creation processing of the pending addition command are performed, and the processing contents are substantially the same as the special figure 1 starting port check processing described below.

  In FIG. 17, the CPU 201 first determines whether or not a winning (winning ball) has been detected at the upper start opening 34 (step S311).

  When the winning of the upper start opening 34 is detected (step S311: YES), it is determined whether or not the number of reserved balls for special symbol 1 is 4 or more (step S312). That is, it is determined whether or not the number of the operation holding balls (hereinafter referred to as “special drawing 1 operation holding balls”) according to the special symbol 1 is less than the maximum holding memory number (here, the upper limit of four). If no winning is detected at the upper start opening 34 (step S311: NO), the special figure 1 start opening check process is exited without doing anything.

  If the winning of the upper start opening 34 is detected, but the special figure 1 operation reservation ball number is 4 or more (step S312: YES), the process proceeds to step S325 described later, and the special figure 1 operation reservation ball number is not four or more. If this is the case, that is, if it is less than 4 (step S312: NO), 1 is added (+1) to the special figure 1 operation holding ball number (step S313), and the process proceeds to step S314.

  When the process proceeds to step S314, various random numbers used for the special symbol variation display game 1 related to the special figure 1 operation holding ball generated this time are acquired (step S314). Specifically, the current values of the jackpot determination random number, the special symbol determination random number, and the variation pattern random number are acquired from the random number counter, and the acquired random number value is stored in the reserved storage area of the RAM 203. The reserved storage area is an area for storing predetermined game information related to the symbol variation display game as an operation holding ball (holding data). In the reserved storage area, the various random numbers as the reserved data are stored in a special symbol. Until the first variation display operation is performed (until the execution of the special symbol variation display game 1), it is held and stored in the order in which the start conditions are established (the winning order). The reserved memory area includes a reserved memory area corresponding to the special symbol 1 side and the special symbol 2 side (a special symbol 1 reserved memory area corresponding to the special symbol 1 (first reserved memory area)) and a special symbol 2 And a special figure 2 reserved storage area (second reserved storage area) corresponding to. These reserved storage areas are provided with a reserved 1 storage area to a reserved n storage area (n is the maximum number of activated balls to be held: n = 4 in the present embodiment). (Holding storage order is stored in the order of holding 1 storage area, holding 2 storage area,..., Holding n−1 storage area, holding n storage area).

  Of the various random numbers, the special symbol determination random number and the variation pattern random number are extracted from a random number counter that generates a random number in software corresponding to each random number. Since the random number values of these random number counters are updated randomly in the main process executed between the interrupt process and the interrupt process that occur intermittently in the count value storage areas corresponding to each provided in the RAM 203, The value is obtained as it is.

  On the other hand, the jackpot determination random number value is extracted from a random number generation circuit (a jackpot determination random number counter) that generates a random number in hardware. This random number generation circuit latches the count value at this timing when a game ball detection signal is input from the upper start port sensor 34a or the lower start port sensor 34a, and the count value is input to the microcomputer. It has become. The CPU 201 stores this count value as a jackpot determination random number value in a storage area for the jackpot determination random value in the RAM 203 provided separately from the reserved storage area of the RAM 203 (a special electric accessory activation determination random number latch buffer). Then, at the necessary timing, the jackpot determination random number value stored in the random number latch buffer for determining the operation of the special electric accessory is read and used.

  Next, pre-read prohibition data (EVENT: “01H” for prohibiting the pre-read determination as winning command data (data corresponding to the lower byte (EVENT) of the hold addition command) for creating a pending addition command (details will be described later) ”) Is acquired (step S315), and it is determined whether the“ special figure 1 prefetch prohibition condition ”is satisfied (step S316). The “special figure 1 prefetch prohibition condition” is a condition for prohibiting the prefetch determination for the special figure 1 operation holding ball.

  When the special figure 1 prefetch prohibition condition is satisfied (step S316: YES), the prefetch determination for the current special figure 1 operation holding ball is not executed (the hold addition command is prohibited by the process of step S315). As a result, the pre-reading notice effect is not executed (see the processing route of step S316: YES). In the present embodiment, it is determined whether or not prefetching is prohibited based on the current gaming state. Specifically, the pre-reading determination on the special symbol 1 side is prohibited when the game state is accompanied by the “electric support state”, that is, when the internal game state is in the probabilistic state. As described above, the reason for prohibiting the pre-reading determination on the special symbol 1 side when the game state is accompanied by the electric support state is as follows.

  The first reason is that, when placed under the “electric support state”, the winning rate for the lower start opening 35 can be significantly improved over the normal gaming state “high base gaming state (movable wing piece 47 of Activating rate improvement state: The winning probability per assistance is 255/256, and the opening extension function is activated) ”, so that when the player aims the launch position to win the normal symbol start opening 37 ( Estimated that the number of working reserve balls related to the special symbol 2 (hereinafter referred to as “special figure 2 working reserve balls”) frequently occurs when the game ball is aimed so as to pass through the right flow path 3c). Is done. On the other hand, when placed in a state without electric support, the operating rate of the movable wing piece 47 is low “low base gaming state (the winning probability per assist is 1/256, and the open extension function is not activated. In this embodiment, the game ball is hardly guided or guided to the upper start opening 34 side due to a falling direction changing member such as a game nail. When aiming at the launch position on the normal symbol start opening 37 side, the game is such that it is particularly disadvantageous. For this reason, it is presumed that the player does not set the launch position so that the game ball passes through the left flow path 3b side during the electric support state, and the pre-reading notice effect for the special figure 1 operation holding ball This is because if the pre-reading determination is performed one by one for the special FIG. 1 operation holding ball having a low occurrence rate, there is a problem that the control burden increases.

  The second reason is a problem of technical intervention. As an example of the problem of technical intervention, if there is currently only some pre-reading notice effect (especially a pre-reading notice effect with a high expectation of winning) for Special Figure 1 action-holding balls, If recognized, the special symbol variation display game 2 on the priority variation side is continuously executed without interrupting the special symbol 2 operation holding ball, so that the special symbol 2 side (special symbol variation display game 2 side) The game can be advanced while receiving the benefits of the big hit lottery. In this embodiment, “12R length opening probability variation big hit” and “16R length opening probability variation big hit”, which have higher profits, are more likely to be gained by receiving the symbol drawing on the special symbol 2 side than receiving the symbol lottery on the special symbol 1 side. (The details will be described later). For this reason, it is more advantageous for the player to receive the big win lottery on the special symbol 2 side (special symbol fluctuation display game 2 side) than to receive the big hit lottery on the special symbol 1 side (special symbol fluctuation display game 1 side). It is said to be expanded. Using this, if it is clear that the special figure 1 operation holding ball has won the big hit, after receiving the maximum benefit of the special symbol 2 side big hit lottery until the end of the power support state, The problem of technical intervention, such as digesting the special figure 1 operation holding ball and easily obtaining a big hit, causes inequalities among players.

  Therefore, in the present embodiment, in view of the above-described problems, the section (prefetch prohibition state) in which the prefetch determination on the special figure 1 side and the special figure 2 side is prohibited can be switched according to the gaming state. Yes. Specifically, the main control unit 20 prohibits the prefetch determination by the first prefetch determination means (for example, prefetch determination processing on the side of FIG. 1; corresponding to steps S317 to S323 in FIG. The prefetch determination means (for example, the prefetch determination process on the side of the special figure 2; corresponding to steps S337 to S343 in FIG. 18 described later) is permitted. ) ”And“ a second read-ahead prohibition state (for example, in a state without electric support) ”that prohibits the prefetch determination by the second prefetch determination unit and allows the prefetch determination by the first prefetch determination unit. Is provided with a function unit as 'prefetch prohibition state control means' that performs switching control based on a predetermined condition (for example, whether or not there is a current internal game state or an electric support state).

  Returning to the description of step S316 again, if the special figure 1 prefetch prohibition condition is satisfied (step S316: YES), the processing related to the prefetch determination (steps S317 to S324) is not performed, and the processing proceeds to step S325. .

  When the special figure 1 prefetch prohibition condition is not satisfied (step S316: NO), the process proceeds to step S317, and random number determination processing is performed (step S317). This random number determination process is performed as part of the 'prefetching determination' process. Here, the "winning lottery" relating to the current operation holding ball (here, the special figure 1 side) is performed. Perform pre-reading determination (pre-reading determination) in advance.

  When entering the random number determination process in step S317, first, the big hit determination random number value stored in the RAM 203 (special electric accessory operation determination random number latch buffer) is acquired, and then the per random number determination table for special figure 1 is acquired. . Then, based on the acquired jackpot determination random number value and the hit random number determination table, the winning lottery for the current operation holding ball (another determination of big hit, small hit and lose), that is, the current operation holding ball is Pre-fetching determination is made on the lottery result (winning lottery result at the start of fluctuation) of “random determination process for special electric accessory operation determination (see step S409 in FIG. 19 described later)” executed when the variable display operation is performed. And get the result.

(T-1. Per random number determination table)
The hit random number determination table includes a “random figure determination table for special figure 1 (not shown)” related to the special symbol fluctuation display game 1 and a “random figure determination table for special figure 2” related to the special symbol fluctuation display game 2. (Not shown) ”is included, and during the special figure 1 starting port check process of FIG. 17, the“ random number determination table for special figure 1 ”, and during the special figure 2 starting port check process of FIG. Reference is made to the “per random number determination table for FIG. 2”.

  In these winning random number determination tables, the winning type (whether big hit, small hit or lost) is determined for each big hit lottery probability state (high probability state (high probability) and low probability state (low probability)). Are determined in association with a jackpot determination random number value (the size of the jackpot determination random number: 65536). Specifically, the jackpot determination random number value is any of the determination values. Either big hit, small hit, or loss is determined depending on whether or not it belongs to. Therefore, even when the acquired jackpot determination random number values belong to the same determination value (the same value for the jackpot determination random number value), the current jackpot lottery probability state is a high probability state or a low probability state. Depending on the situation, the winning type may be different, such as “big hit” on the one hand and “lost” on the other. The jackpot winning probability of this embodiment is about 1/397 in the low probability state, and about 1 / 39.7, which is about 10 times higher than that in the high probability state. The winning probability is about 1/200 regardless of the jackpot lottery probability state. In other words, the winning probability for the small hit is constant regardless of the big win lottery probability state, and in this respect, the personality is different from the big hit whose winning probability varies depending on the big hit lottery probability state.

  In the special random number determination table for special figure 2 of the present embodiment, the determination area for the big win is the same (the winning probability for the big win is the same), but the determination value itself for the small win is not defined. In other words, in the special symbol fluctuation display game 1, the big win, the small hit, and the loss are targeted for the winning lottery, whereas in the special symbol variation display game 2, only the big win and the lost are targeted for the winning lottery. Of course, in the random number determination table for special figure 2 as well, the small hit may be determined as a winning lottery object.

  As a result of this winning lottery (pre-fetch winning determination), when “big hit” is won, “5 AH (big hit determination flag is ON)” is acquired as a big hit determination flag, and when it belongs to other determination values, 00H (big hit not won (big hit determination flag is OFF)) ”is acquired. In addition, when “small hit” is won, “5 AH (small hit determination flag is ON)” is acquired as a small hit determination flag, and when it belongs to other determination values, “00H (small hit non-winning) is acquired. (The small hit determination flag is OFF)) ”is acquired. Therefore, when the big hit determination random number value belongs to the determination value that is the big hit determination flag “00H” and the small hit determination “00H”, neither “big hit” nor “small hit” has been won. Thus, the current winning determination result is “lost” (the big hit determination flag and the small hit determination flag are in the OFF state).

  Here, in the present embodiment, the state of the big hit determination flag (5AH or 00H) acquired by the random number determination processing in step S317 is taken into a general-purpose register (here, A register) built in the CPU, and the state of the small hit determination flag ( “5AH” or “00H”) is taken into another general-purpose register (here, D register). Then, in a state where the big hit determination flag and the small hit determination flag are held in the register, the random number determination process is skipped, and the process proceeds to the special stop symbol data generation process in step S318. That is, the CPU 201 does not store the winning lottery result fetched in the register in the RAM 203, but leaves this random number determination process while holding it. The reason is as follows.

  In the present embodiment, the determination result obtained in this random number determination process, that is, the data of the winning lottery result in the prefetch determination is immediately used in the subsequent “special stop symbol data creation process”, and then this data is required. There is nothing to do. Therefore, there is no problem even if the determination result is left in the register without being stored in the RAM 203 and the random number determination process is exited. This eliminates the need for a program for storing the determination result of the random number determination process (the determination result of the winning determination process in the winning process (winning result related to the pre-reading determination)), and is dedicated for storing the determination result. Since it is not necessary to provide a separate storage area, it is possible to reduce the memory capacity of the ROM and RAM and reduce the control burden.

  When the random number determination process in step S317 is completed, a special stop symbol data creation process is then performed (step S318). This special stop symbol data creation processing is performed as part of the 'prefetch determination' processing, and here, 'prefetch determination (prefetch symbol determination: pre-determining "symbol lottery" related to the current operation holding ball. (Pre-judgment of winning (winning) type)) '. The random number determination process (step S317) to the special stop symbol data creation process (step S318) is a process related to the "pre-reading determination" in which the big hit lottery result is pre-readed.

  In the special stop symbol data creation process in step S318, first, a winning lottery result obtained in the random number determination process in step S317 is acquired, and a symbol table (explained later) according to the winning lottery result (separate big hit, small hit, and lost). Large hit symbol table, small hit symbol table, lose symbol table: not shown). Then, the random number value for special symbol determination acquired in step S314 is acquired, and based on the selected symbol table and the random number value for special symbol determination, the symbol lottery for the current operation holding ball, that is, the current operation hold The lottery result (the symbol lottery result at the start of variation) of “special stop symbol creation process (see step S410 of FIG. 19 described later)” executed when the ball is subjected to the variable display operation is pre-readed.

(T-2. Symbol table)
In each of the symbol tables described above, a “special symbol determination random value (the size of the special symbol determination random value: 200)” and a determination region (determination value) for determining the winning type are defined in association with each other. Specifically, the special symbol determination data and the special stop symbol number are determined depending on which determination value the random number value for special symbol determination belongs to.

  The “special symbol determination data” is data for identifying a winning type (winning type: big hit type, small hit type, and loss type). Open non-probable large hit A, 2R short open non-probable large hit B, 5R long open probable large hit, 5R long open non-probable large hit, 12R long open probable large hit, 12R long open non-probable large hit, 16R long open probable large hit, small hit A / This is data for identifying which of B and Loss (if there are multiple types of loss, the type of loss: for example, Loss A to C) is won. This special symbol determination data is a process that requires winning classification information (for example, a game state transition preparation process in step S411 in FIG. (This is a special electric symbol management process (step S060) in Fig. 7.) The "special stop symbol number" designates a special stop symbol form to be stopped and displayed on the special symbol display device. This is data and is used when the “stop symbol type” of the special symbol is specified on the main control unit 20 side.

(T-2-1. Big hit symbol table)
The jackpot symbol table of the present embodiment includes a “big hit symbol table 1” for the special symbol 1 related to the special symbol variation display game 1 and a “big hit symbol table 2” for the special symbol 2 related to the special symbol variation display game 2. Is included. In each jackpot symbol table, a special symbol judgment random number value and a judgment value for determining the jackpot type are defined in association with each other. Specifically, the special symbol judgment random number value is set to any judgment value. Depending on whether or not it belongs, any one of a plurality of types of jackpots is determined.

  In the jackpot symbol table 1, for example, when the special symbol determination random number value falls within the range of the determination values 0 to 9, a “2R short open latency big hit” win is won (symbol selection rate (symbol lottery probability): 10 / 200), when it falls within the range of the judgment value 20 to 29, it becomes the “2R short open uncertain variation big hit” winning (symbol selection rate (symbol lottery probability): 10/200), and when it falls within the range of the judgment value 80 to 149 "5R long open probability change big hit" wins (design selection rate: 70/200), if it falls within the range of judgment value 150-159, "5R long open non-probable big hit" wins (design selection rate: 20/200), If it falls within the range of the judgment values 160 to 189, the “12R length opening probability change big hit” wins (symbol selection rate: 30/200), and if it belongs to the range of the judgment values 190 to 199, “12R length opening” Probability variation jackpot "win and become (symbol selectivity: 10/200), big hit type is determined in a predetermined pattern selectivity, determining a special symbol data and the special stop symbol numbers corresponding thereto is adapted to be determined.

  The jackpot symbol table 2 has the same basic configuration as the above jackpot symbol table 1, but differs from the jackpot symbol table 1 in the following points. The jackpot symbol table 2 is different from the jackpot symbol table 1 in a specific jackpot symbol selection rate (symbol lottery probability). Specifically, when the special symbol determination random number value falls within the range of determination values 0 to 39, “2R short open non-probable big hit” wins (symbol selection rate: 40/200), and determination values 41 to 80 If it belongs to the range, it will win the “12R long open probability variable big hit” (symbol selection rate: 40/200), and if it belongs to the range of the judgment value 80 to 199, it will be won (the symbol selection rate) : 120/200), “5R long open uncertain variable big hit”, “5R short open non-probable big hit”, and “2R short open non-probable big hit” do not exist. That is, the symbol lottery with the jackpot symbol table 2 is more likely to be selected than the symbol lottery with the jackpot symbol table 1, which is a symbol lottery advantageous to the player. As a result, the game development is more advantageous for the player to receive the lottery of the special symbol variation display game 2 than the special symbol variation display game 1. In particular, in the state with the electric support, the winning probability on the lower start opening 35 side is dramatically improved and the execution chance of the special symbol variation display game 2 is increased, so that the state with the electric support is a high base game state. In addition to the symbol lottery, the gaming state is advantageous to the player.

(T-2-2. Small hits design table)
The small bonus symbol table of the present embodiment is used for both the special symbol variation display game 1 and the special symbol variation display game 2, and the random symbol value for special symbol determination is any one as in the configuration of the big bonus symbol table. Depending on whether or not it belongs to the determination area (determination value), the small hit type (any of small hits A to B) is determined with a predetermined symbol selection rate, and the corresponding special symbol determination data and special stop symbol number Is to be decided. The symbol selection rates for the small hits A to C can be set freely, but the relationship of the symbol selection probabilities is preferably “small hit A ≦ (or <) small hit B”. The reason is as follows. The small hit A is set to 2 times with the least number of CZ continuations, and the CZ period is the shortest. Therefore, even if it shifts to CZ, the tension to the latent state ends immediately, and the fun in CZ Lack. For this reason, rather than setting the small hit A to a relatively high symbol selection rate, it is better to increase the symbol selection rate of the small hit B in which the number of times close to the number of CZ continuations that can determine the latent state is set to four times. This is because it is effective in maintaining the tension to the latent state and improving the fun in CZ.

(T-2-3. Lost symbol table)
In the lost symbol table of the present embodiment, the “lost symbol table 1” for the special symbol 1 relating to the special symbol variation display game 1 and the “lost symbol table 2” for the special symbol 2 relating to the special symbol variation display game 2 are included. And are included.

  The lost symbol tables 1 and 2 are classified according to whether the special symbol determination random number value belongs to one of the determination areas (determination values), as in the configuration of the big hit symbol table or the small hit table. (For example, either Loss A or Loss B) is determined at a predetermined symbol selection rate, and special symbol determination data and special stop symbol numbers corresponding thereto are determined. Note that the lost symbol table 1 and the lost symbol table 2 have different determination values related to the winning of the lost symbols A to B. Therefore, even if the random numbers for special symbol determination are the same value, the lost symbol table 1 is referred to. The case where the winning symbol table 2 is referred may be different from the case where the winning symbol table 2 is referenced. In the present embodiment, as the type of loss, the loss A and the loss B are subject to lottery on the special figure 1 side (the loss symbol table 1), and only the loss A is lottery on the special figure 2 side (the loss symbol table 2). It is targeted. In addition, the winning probability of losing A is determined to be lower than the winning probability of losing B (for example, 195/200 for losing A and 5/200 for losing B). By using such a relationship, the reach effect is displayed at an appropriate frequency by increasing the selection ratio of the reach variation pattern in the case where the loss B is won than in the case where the loss A is won. In particular, in the case of this embodiment, the reach fluctuation pattern (SP reach fluctuation pattern) that specifies SP reach is not selected in the loss A (in the case of “normal fluctuation pattern” or “N reach”), and in the case of the loss B SP reach fluctuation pattern is selected ("Normal fluctuation pattern" and "Normal N reach" are not selected). In other words, in many cases of losing, an effect related to normal fluctuations appears, and an SP reach effect appears at an appropriate frequency, preventing the player from excessively hitting the winning expectation for a big hit. doing.

  In the process of step S318, various data obtained from the above-described symbol table (the symbol lottery result in the pre-reading determination: special symbol determination data, special stop symbol number) is taken into a register included in the CPU 201 (for example, special symbol determination). The data is in the A register and the special stop symbol number is the B register.) In this state, the special stop symbol data creation process is exited, and the process proceeds to the starting port winning random number determination process in step S319. That is, the CPU 201 does not store the data fetched in the register in the RAM 203, but leaves the special stop symbol data creation process while holding the data. The reason is as follows.

  In this embodiment, various data of the determination result (the symbol lottery result in the pre-reading determination) obtained in the special stop symbol data creation process this time is immediately used in the subsequent “start opening winning random number determination process”, and this No data is needed. Therefore, there is no particular problem even if the determination result is not stored in the RAM 203 but is held in the register and the special stop symbol data creation process is exited. This eliminates the need for a program for storing the determination result of the special stop symbol data creation process in the RAM, and does not require a dedicated storage area for storing the determination result. As a result, the memory capacity can be reduced and the control burden can be reduced.

  When the special stop symbol data creation process in step S318 described above is completed, a starting port winning random number determination process in step S319 is then performed. The start opening winning random number determination process is also performed as part of the 'look-ahead determination' process, similar to the random number determination process (step S317) and the special stop symbol data creation process (step S318). The “pre-reading determination (pre-reading fluctuation pattern determination)” for determining in advance the “variation pattern at the start of variation” relating to the actuated holding ball is performed.

  Upon entering the start opening random number determination process, the winning lottery result obtained in the random number determination process in step S317, the 'symbol lottery' result obtained in the special stop symbol data creation process in step S318, and the step S314 Using the 'random number for variation pattern' acquired in the process, the variation pattern at the start of variation related to the currently activated ball, that is, executed when the current activated ball is subjected to the variation display operation. The result (special pattern variation pattern creation processing (see step S412 of FIG. 19 described later)) ”(variation pattern content at the start of variation)” is determined in advance. Then, based on the prefetch determination result, a creation process of winning command data (second byte (EVENT): lower byte) used for creating a “hold addition command” described later is performed. The contents of the look-ahead variation pattern (excluding reserved ball number information) are designated by the winning command data (EVENT) determined in the starting port winning random number determination process. Note that the random number determination process in step S317 to the start port winning random number determination process in step S319 is a process related to 'pre-fetching determination ".

  When the random number determination process at the start opening winning in step S323 is completed, the winning command data on the upper byte (MODE) side that specifies the number of balls to be held at the time of the prefetch determination, and the lower byte (EVENT) side that specifies the prefetch variation pattern A “pending addition command” composed of the winning command data is created (step S320), and is transmitted to the effect control unit 24 without being stored in the RAM 203 (step S326). As a result, the special figure 1 starting port check process is exited, and then the special figure 2 starting port check process in step S302 of FIG. 18 is performed.

  The hold addition command is composed of 2-byte control data. Specifically, the higher byte (first byte (MODE) “BXH” (for example, B6H to B9H is special ) Corresponds to the number of the balls 1 for holding the action of the symbol 1 and BBH to BEH correspond to the numbers of the balls 1 to 4 for the special symbol 2 respectively)))) It is composed of lower bytes created by processing (second byte (EVENT) “XXH (XX is a numerical value corresponding to each command)” and corresponding to the contents of the prefetch variation pattern) (see FIG. 5). Therefore, this pending addition command includes prefetch determination result information obtained in a series of processes (steps S315 to S317) relating to prefetch determination, specifically, information that can specify a prefetch variation pattern. However, when the lower byte (EVENT) value is a specific value (for example, “01H”), prefetch prohibition is designated.

  When the hold addition command is transmitted from the main control unit 20, the effect control unit 24 receives the lottery and performs a lottery (prefetch notice lottery) regarding whether or not to perform the prefetch notice effect based on information included in the hold addition command. If the result of the lottery is determined to be feasible (when the pre-reading notice lottery is won), the pre-reading for the currently activated ball at the start of the symbol variation display game or at a predetermined timing during the game Make a notice effect appear. In addition, when receiving the hold addition command, the effect control unit 24 may cause a “winning effect” to be displayed to notify that the winning has been won regardless of whether or not the pre-reading notice effect is to be displayed. it can.

  In addition, even when a new winning is made when the number of active balls is 4 or more, a holding addition command at the time of overflow winning (hereinafter abbreviated as “OF holding addition command”) is created, and the production control unit 24 is transmitted.

  Since the “OF hold addition command” is an overflow action hold ball, it is not used for the pre-reading determination but is used exclusively for the above “winning effect”. However, the following effects appear. Can be configured.

  For example, when the production control unit 24 receives the above-described OF hold addition command, if there is a “big hit (may include a small win)” among the current operation hold balls, this is indicated. You may comprise so that the notice effect (notice effect on hold at the time of OF winning) can be shown. In this case, when receiving the hold addition command, the production control unit 24 stores the prefetch determination information storage means for storing the prefetch determination information included therein, and when receiving the OF hold addition command, If there is a thing that becomes a “big hit (may include a small win)”, the fact that there is a possibility of a big hit is notified (you may decide whether to notify by a predetermined notification lottery) And an on-hold notice effect means.

  In addition, when the result of the currently running symbol fluctuation display game is “big hit (may include small hits)”, a notice effect (notice effect during fluctuation when OF winning) can be displayed. You may comprise. In this case, when the effect control unit 24 receives the OF hold addition command, the effect control unit 24 notifies that there is a possibility that the game result related to the current symbol variation is “big hit (may include small hits)” (predetermined It may be determined whether or not to notify by a notification lottery).

  The notice effect by such an OF hold addition command is similar to the over winning effect that appears when an overflow prize occurs, but the result of the symbol variation display game for which the final result has not yet been derived has been read-ahead. It plays the same role as the pre-reading notice effect in that

(9-2. Special Figure 2 Starting Port Check Processing: FIG. 18)
Next, the special figure 2 starting port check process (step S302 in FIG. 16) will be described. FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing details of the special figure 2 starting port check process.

  The special figure 2 starting port check process, like the special figure 1 starting port check process, serves as a winning process executed based on establishment of a predetermined starting condition. Here, the special symbol variation display game 2 In the same way as the flow of the special figure 1 start port check process described above, as the pre-start process for executing the process, the addition process of the number of suspended balls for operation, the process of storing various random numbers, the process of creating a pending addition command, etc. Processing is performed. Hereinafter, the same processing content as the above-described special figure 1 start opening check processing (step S301) will be described by omitting as appropriate in order to avoid duplication.

  In FIG. 18, the CPU 201 first determines whether or not a winning (winning ball) has been detected at the lower start opening 35 (step S331).

  If no winning detection is detected at the lower start opening 35 (step S331: NO), the special figure 2 start opening check process is exited without doing anything. However, when the winning of the lower start opening 35 is detected (step S331: YES), it is determined whether or not the number of reserved balls for special symbol 2 is 4 or more (step S332).

  When the special figure 2 operation reservation ball number is 4 or more (step S332: YES), the process proceeds to step S345. On the other hand, when the number of special figure 2 operation reservation balls is not 4 or more, that is, when it is less than 4 (step S312: NO), the special figure 2 operation reservation balls number is incremented by 1 (+1) (step S333). Proceed to processing.

  When the processing proceeds to step S334, various random numbers (random hit determination random number, special symbol determination random number, and variation pattern random number) used in the special symbol variation display game 2 related to the special symbol 2 operation holding ball generated this time. The current value of the random number counter is acquired and stored in the reserved storage area of the RAM 203 (step S334). This process is the same as the process in step S314 in FIG. The special figure 2 operation hold ball is stored in the order in which the start conditions are satisfied, with the maximum hold storage number as a predetermined upper limit value, until it is used for the variable display operation of the special symbol 2.

  Next, prefetch prohibition data (lower byte “01H”) prohibiting prefetch determination is acquired as winning command data (step S335), and it is determined whether or not the “special figure 2 prefetch prohibition condition” is satisfied (step S335). S336). The “special figure 2 prefetch prohibition condition” is a condition for prohibiting the prefetch determination for the special figure 2 operation holding ball.

  When the special figure 2 prefetch prohibition condition is satisfied (step S336: YES), the prefetch determination for the current special figure 2 operation holding ball is not executed, and thereby the prefetch notice effect is not executed. (Step S336: YES processing route). In the present embodiment, it is determined whether or not prefetching is prohibited based on the current gaming state. Specifically, when the game state is accompanied by a “game state with no electric support” state, that is, when the internal game state is in the normal game state or in the latent state, the special symbol 2 side is read ahead. Judgment is prohibited. Thus, the reason for prohibiting the pre-reading determination on the special symbol 2 side when the game state is accompanied by the state without the electric support is as follows.

  If it is in the “normal game state” or “latent state”, it is placed under the “no electric support” state, and the winning rate of the lower start opening 35 is significantly reduced. Further, as already described, in the present embodiment, when the player targets the launch position on the normal symbol start opening 37 side in the state without the electric support, the game ball is aimed so as to pass through the left flow path 3b. This is a gameability that is disadvantageous for the player, such that the winning rate of the upper start opening 34 is significantly lower than the case where the above is determined. For this reason, it is presumed that the player does not aim the launch position on the normal symbol start opening 37 side during the state without the electric support. Therefore, in the absence of the electric support, it is not necessary to generate the pre-reading notice effect for the special figure 2 operation holding ball, and the prefetch determination is performed one by one for the special figure 2 operation holding ball having a low occurrence rate. This is because there arises a problem that the control burden increases.

  In the present embodiment, the pre-reading prohibited section on the special symbol 1 side (prefetching prohibited state period) and the pre-reading prohibited section on the special symbol 2 side can be switched according to the gaming state. It is not limited to this. For example, a configuration may be adopted in which no pre-reading determination is performed on either the special symbol 1 side or the special symbol 2 side according to the gaming state. Also, during CZ, the expectation of the high probability state is drawn by the effect made under the corresponding dedicated CZ effect mode, and the CZ period is also relatively short, so during CZ, It is preferable that the prefetch determination is set as a prefetch prohibition section so that the prefetch notice effect is not displayed.

  Returning to the description of step S336 again, when the special figure 2 prefetch prohibition condition is satisfied (step S336: YES), the process proceeds to step S340. However, when the special figure 2 prefetch prohibition condition is not satisfied (step S336: NO), the process proceeds to step S337, and random number determination processing is performed (step S337). In this random number determination process, “prefetching winning determination” related to the special symbol variation display game 2 is performed. The processing method is substantially the same as the random number determination process in step S317 during the special chart 1 starting port check process of FIG.

  When the random number determination processing in step S337 is completed, special stop symbol data creation processing is then performed (step S338). In this special stop symbol data creation process, “prefetch symbol determination” related to the special symbol variation display game 2 is performed. The processing method is substantially the same as the special stop symbol data creating process in step S318 during the special chart 1 start port check process of FIG.

  Next, the starting port winning random number determination process similar to that in the special figure 1 starting port checking process is performed (step S339), and a holding addition command is created based on the winning command data and the number of pending action balls (step S340). The pending addition command is transmitted to the effect control unit 24 (step S341), and the special figure 2 starting port check process is exited.

(9-3. Special symbol variation start processing: FIG. 19)
Next, the special symbol variation start process (step S305) will be described. FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing details of the special symbol variation start process of FIG.

  In FIG. 19, the CPU 201 first determines whether or not the special figure 2 operation reservation ball number is zero (step S401). If the special figure 2 operation reservation ball number is not zero (step S401: NO), Proceeding to the process of S403, the process (steps S403 to S416) at the start of the change for the operation holding ball used for the current change display is performed.

  On the other hand, when the special figure 2 operation holding ball number is zero (step S401: YES), it is subsequently determined whether or not the special figure 1 operation holding ball number is zero (step S402). If the number is not zero (step S402: NO), the process proceeds to step S403, and the process (steps S403 to S416) related to the start of the variation of the special symbol for the suspended action ball used for the present variation display is performed. Do. By the processing of steps S401 and S402, “priority” indicating which of the special figure 1 operation holding ball and the special figure 2 operation holding ball is to be preferentially used for the variable display operation (which operation holding ball is digested). "Change order" is determined. The processing in steps S401 and S402 is performed as “priority change means” for preferentially digesting the special figure 2 operation holding ball when both the special figure 1 operation holding ball and the special figure 2 operation holding ball exist. Function.

  In the present embodiment, when the operation holding ball exists in both the special figure 1 operation holding ball and the special figure 2 operation holding ball by the priority changing means, the special figure 2 operation holding ball is preferentially digested, that is, The special symbol variation display game 2 is executed more preferentially than the special symbol variation display game 1. More specifically, on the condition that the special symbol 1 or the special symbol 2 is stopped and displayed, the first reserved storage area (first reserved storage means (the reserved storage area related to the operation reserved ball on the special symbol 1 side)). ) Is stored with the hold data relating to the special symbol 1 (first hold memory: special figure 1 operation hold ball), the second hold storage area (second hold storage means (the operation hold ball on the special symbol 2 side) If the second reserved data relating to the special symbol 2 (second reserved memory: special figure 2 operation holding ball) is not stored in the reserved memory area))), the second of the first reserved data When the second special hold data is stored in the second reserved storage area while the variable display of the first special symbol based on the previously stored reserved data is started, the first reserved The first hold data is stored in the storage area. Regardless of whether or not they are 憶, so as to start earliest variable display of the second special symbol based on the stored pending data out of the second pending data.

  In addition, when the number of operation hold balls of both the special figure 2 operation hold ball number and the special figure 1 operation hold ball number is zero (step S401: YES and step S402: YES), the state of “no operation hold ball” It becomes. This “no operation hold ball” state is when the special symbol is on standby and there is no hold memory, and the effect control unit 24 side is informed that it has entered this state, and the liquid crystal display The device 36 is controlled to switch to a demonstration screen display for waiting for customers. Therefore, when “no operation hold ball” is reached, the process proceeds to step S417, and it is determined whether or not the special symbol operation status is “standby (00H)” indicating the state of “no operation hold ball”. (Step S417).

  When the determination process of step S417 is passed, that is, when the state of “no operation hold ball” is set, and the special symbol operation status at this time is “standby (01H)” (step S417: NO), the special symbol operation status is switched to “waiting (00H)” (00H is stored in the special symbol operation status: step S418). Then, a “demonstration display command” for displaying a demonstration screen is transmitted to the effect control unit 24 as an effect control command (step S419), and the special symbol variation start process is exited. Thus, the reason for switching the special symbol operation status to “waiting (00H)”, transmitting the effect control command, and exiting the special symbol variation start process is as follows.

  If the demonstration display command is sent without condition when the number of active balls is zero, the demonstration display command is repeatedly transmitted at a period of 4 ms while the number of special figure active balls is zero. Will occur. Therefore, when the “no operation hold ball” state is reached, a demonstration display command is transmitted once, and if the demonstration display command has already been transmitted, the demonstration display command is sent to the effect control unit 24. This special symbol management process can be skipped without sending to the user.

  If the presentation control unit 24 does not receive any presentation control command (for example, a hold addition command) related to the symbol fluctuation display game even after a predetermined time has elapsed after receiving the demonstration display command, the fluctuation display operation is performed for a certain period of time. Assuming that an undisturbed state (a waiting state for waiting for customers) has occurred, the liquid crystal display device 36 performs a “demo screen display” for notifying that the game is waiting.

  When the number of the special figure 1 operation holding balls or the special figure 2 operation holding balls is not zero (step S401: NO or step S402: NO), the change start of the special symbol for the operation holding balls used for the current fluctuation display is started. The processing related to (Steps S403 to S417) is performed. In addition, about the process of step S403-S417 demonstrated below, when it is "NO" by determination of said step S401, it is the process for the special figure 2 action holding ball, and by determination of said step S402. If it is NO ', it will be the process for the special figure 1 action holding ball, but the way of the process is the same, so in order to avoid duplication, the action on the special symbol 1 side unless otherwise required The processing will be described without distinction between processing for the holding ball and processing for the operation holding ball on the special symbol 2 side.

  If it progresses to step S403, 1 will subtract the number of operation reservation balls (the number of operation reservation balls concerning the special symbol side used for the present variable display operation -1: step S403), The “subtraction command” is transmitted to the effect control unit 24 (step S404).

  Next, the special symbol operation confirmation data is stored (step S405). This special symbol operation confirmation data is information for designating the special symbol type of the current variation start side. For example, if the special symbol 1 is the variation start side, “00H” is displayed, and the special symbol 2 is the variation start side. If there is, “01H” is stored in the special symbol operation confirmation data.

Next, the hold data stored in the hold storage area of the RAM 203 is shifted (step S406), and the hold 4 storage area is cleared to zero (step S407). In the processing of steps S406 to S407, the hold data (random hit determination random number, special symbol determination random number, stored in the hold storage area (hold 1 storage area) corresponding to the hold storage number n = 1,
And a random number for variation pattern) are read out and stored in the random number storage area for determination of the RAM 203, and the reserved storage areas (hold 2 storage area, reserved 3 storage area) corresponding to the reserved n storage area (n = 2, 3, 4) , The hold data stored in the hold 4 storage area) is stored in the hold storage area corresponding to 'n-1' (step S406), and the hold 4 storage area is cleared (step S407). That is, the hold data in the hold 1 storage area is shifted to the random number storage area for determination, and the hold data after the hold 2 storage area is numbered one by one (hold 2 storage area → hold 1 storage area, hold 3 storage). Area → holding 2 storage area, holding 4 storage area → holding 3 storage area) and overwriting, and providing an empty area in the holding 4 storage area (if no new active holding ball is generated, processing in step S407) Since the vacant area is sequentially shifted each time the operation is performed, the entire reserved storage area becomes an empty area when all the operating spheres are used. As a result, the start order of the special symbol variation display game coincides with the order of the number n of the operation reservation balls (n = 1, 2, 3, 4), and any of the operation reservation balls acquired at the time of winning the starting opening is stored. Whether the area corresponds to the area is specified, and the storage of a new operation holding ball becomes possible.

  Next, remaining short time command transmission processing is performed (step S408). Here, it is determined whether or not a special symbol short-time counter (counter for counting the remaining number of times until the special symbol short-time state is terminated) described later is zero. A “remaining short time number command” including the remaining short time number information is transmitted to the effect control unit 24 (step S408). By this “remaining short time number command”, the production control unit 24 side can grasp the remaining short time number, for example, using the effect means, can notify the remaining short time number information.

  Next, a random number determination process for determining the operation of the special electric accessory is performed (step S409). In this special electric accessory activation determination random number determination process, a “winning lottery” relating to the current special symbol variation display game is performed using the jackpot determination random number value. The random determination process for determining the operation of the special electric accessory is “random determination process (step S319 in FIG. 17, step S339 in FIG. 18)” which is one of the “prefetch determination” processes in that “winning lottery” is performed. In this example, the “winning lottery” in “determination at the start of change” is performed for the operation holding ball used for the current change display operation. Note that the processing procedure of the random determination process for determining the operation of the special electric accessory is substantially the same as the random determination process (step S319 in FIG. 17 and step S339 in FIG. 18). The description is omitted.

  Here, first, a hit random number determination table corresponding to the current variation display side is acquired based on the special symbol operation confirmation data. This winning random number determination table is the same as the “winning random number determination table” used in the random number determination processing (step S317 in FIG. 17 and step S337 in FIG. 18). Next, the big hit determination random number value stored in the determination random number storage area is acquired, and another winning lottery of big hit, small hit, and lose is performed based on the big hit determination random value and the hit random number determination table, The result is stored in the hit determination flag area of the RAM 203.

  If the winning lottery results in a “big hit” win, the big hit determination flag is set to “5 AH (the big hit determination flag is in the ON state)”. (The big hit determination flag is in the OFF state)) ”. In addition, when the “small hit” win is set, the small hit determination flag is set to “5 AH (small hit determination flag is ON)”, and when belonging to other determination values, “00H (small hit non-winning) is set. (The small hit determination flag is in the OFF state)) ”. Therefore, when the big hit determination random number value belongs to the determination value that is the big hit determination flag “00H” and the small hit determination “00H”, it means that neither “big hit” nor “small hit” was won, The current winning determination result is “lost” (the big hit determination flag and the small hit determination flag are in the OFF state).

  Here, the reason for storing in the RAM 203 the data obtained by the random determination processing for special electric accessory operation determination in step S409 is as follows. Data obtained in the random determination process for determining the operation of the special electric accessory (the big hit determination flag and the small hit determination flag) is “random number determination process (step S317 in FIG. 10, step S337 in FIG. 11)” at the time of the prefetch determination. This is because it is not data that is immediately used in the subsequent processing and is unnecessary thereafter, such as the obtained data, but data that is required in the subsequent special stop symbol creation processing (step S410).

  When the random determination process for special electric accessory operation determination in step S409 is completed, a special stop symbol creation process is then performed (step S410). In this special stop symbol creation process, using the winning lottery result and the special symbol determination random number value of the special electric accessory operation determination random number determination process of step S409, the “symbol lottery” relating to the current special symbol variation display game is performed. Do. The special stop symbol creation process is the same as “special stop symbol data process (step S318 in FIG. 17, step S338 in FIG. 18)” which is one of the “prefetch determination” processes in that “symbol lottery” is performed. Here, the “design lottery” is performed in the “determination at the start of change” for the operation holding ball used for the current change display operation. The basic processing procedure of the special stop symbol creation process is the same as that of the special stop symbol data process (step S318 in FIG. 17 and step S338 in FIG. 18). .

  Here, first, the special symbol operation confirmation data and the winning lottery result (the big hit determination flag and the small hit determination flag) obtained in the random determination processing for the special electric accessory operation determination in step S409 are acquired, and based on these As the symbol table corresponding to the current variation display side, one of the big hit symbol tables 1 and 2, the small hit symbol table, and the lost symbol table 1 and 2 is selected. This symbol table is the same as the symbol table used in the special stop symbol data processing (step S318 in FIG. 17 and step S338 in FIG. 18). Next, a special symbol determination random number value stored in the determination random number storage area is acquired, and based on the selected symbol table and the special symbol determination random value, the “symbol selection lottery” related to the current special symbol variation display game is performed. The symbol lottery result (special symbol determination data, special stop symbol number) is stored in a predetermined region (special symbol determination data storage region, special symbol stop symbol number storage region) of the RAM 203. Thereby, the winning type (winning type) related to the current special symbol variation display game is determined.

  Here, the reason why the data obtained by the special stop symbol creation process in step S410 is stored in the RAM 203 is as follows. The data obtained in the special stop symbol creation process (special symbol determination data, special stop symbol number) is obtained by the “special stop symbol data processing (step S318 in FIG. 10, step S338 in FIG. 11)” at the time of prefetch determination. It is not data that is immediately used in the subsequent processing and is unnecessary after that, as in the case of the data, but is necessary in the special symbol variation pattern creation processing (step S412) or the special electric accessory processing (step S60). Because it is data.

  When the special stop symbol creation process in step S410 is completed, a game state transition preparation process is then performed (step S411). In the game state transition preparation process, a setting process necessary for designating the game state after the big hit game is performed as a setting for shifting the game state. Details of the game state transition preparation process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  When the game state transition preparation process in step S411 is completed, a special symbol variation pattern creation process is then performed (step S412). In this special symbol variation pattern creation process, the symbol lottery result of the special stop symbol creation process (at least the winning lottery result obtained by the random determination process for the operation of the special electric accessory operation), the random number for the variation pattern, the variation pattern allocation designation number Using the (Tcode) (current game state), the number of active reserve balls, and the like, the variation pattern of the special symbol for the active reserve ball used for the current variation display operation is determined. Then, in order to inform the effect control unit 24 of the content of the variation pattern, a “variation pattern designation command” including variation pattern information that can specify the content of the variation pattern is created as an effect control command, and this is effect control Transmit to the unit 24 side. Note that the special symbol variation pattern creation processing is a random number determination process at the start opening winning prize (step S319 in FIG. 17 and FIG. 18) which is one of the “prefetch determination” processing in terms of “determine the variation pattern of the special symbol”. This is a process that works in the same manner as in step S339), but here, the special symbol variation pattern for the operation holding ball used for the current variation display operation, that is, the “variation pattern at the start of variation” is displayed. It is determined.

  Here, first, a random number value for the fluctuation pattern is acquired, and then a “hit fluctuation pattern distribution table” or “losing fluctuation pattern distribution table” (not shown) is acquired based on the big hit lottery result (winning lottery, symbol lottery). . Then, the variation pattern of the special symbol is determined by variation pattern lottery using the variation pattern distribution table and the variation pattern random value.

(T-3. Fluctuation pattern distribution table)
The above-mentioned fluctuation pattern distribution table includes a “winning fluctuation pattern distribution table” that is selected when winning a win (big hit or small win), and a “fluctuation pattern changing pattern for loss” that is selected when winning a win. Minute table ".

  In each variation pattern distribution table, the variation pattern related to the special symbol is the number of operation reservation balls (here, the number of operation reservation balls subtracted in the process of step S403 (excluding the operation reservation balls used for the current variation display operation). , Remaining number of active balls)), variation pattern allocation designation number (Tcode) (current game state), jackpot lottery result (design lottery result of special stop symbol creation process (step S410)), and variation pattern disturbance The variation pattern is determined in association with a numerical value, and any variation pattern is selected from a plurality of types of variation patterns by lottery using variation pattern random numbers.

  As the variation pattern is determined, a “variation time determination table (not shown)” corresponding to the variation pattern is also determined. In this “variation time determination table”, the variation time (symbol variation display operation time) is defined. By referring to the variation time determination table corresponding to the determined variation pattern, the variation of the present variation pattern The time will be fixed. The determined variation time is stored in the special symbol actor movement timer, and this variation time is the execution time of the special symbol variation display game, in other words, the game time of the decoration symbol variation display game (the variation display time of the decoration symbol ( Production time)).

  The information on the variation pattern thus determined mainly includes another winning / losing winning lottery result (in the case of this embodiment, detailed symbol lottery result information is included in the decorative symbol designation command), Current game state type, change time, execution specification information for specific notice effect (specifying information such as presence / absence of reach effect, reach effect type (N reach type or SP reach type), presence / absence of pseudo-ream, number of pseudo-reams) Can be included. The main control unit 20 creates a “variation pattern designation command” that can specify the content, and transmits this to the effect control unit 24. As a result, the variation pattern of the current symbol variation display game is designated, and the production control unit 24 receives the variation pattern designation command, and based on the information contained therein, produces the necessary effects for the current symbol variation display game. An effect control process is performed for the appearance. Note that the symbol lottery result information can be included in the variation pattern designation command.

  In the present embodiment, the same hit variation pattern is selected for the hit variation patterns at the time of 2R short open latent large win winning, 2R short open non-probable large win winning, small hit A and B winning. This is because it is preferable that the same variation pattern is selected in the case of winning the 2R big hit and in the case of winning the small hit, and it is preferable to make it unclear which win was won for production. It is.

  Returning to the description of FIG. 18 again, when the special symbol variation pattern creation processing in step 412 is completed, the special symbol N variation flag (N = 1, 2) for designating that the variation is being displayed is set to 5AH (ON state). ) Is stored (step S413). The “special symbol N changing flag” is a flag indicating which of the special symbols 1 and 2 is changing. When the flag is in an ON state (= 5 AH), the special symbol changes. When the flag is in the OFF state (= 00H), it indicates that the special symbol is stopped. The special symbol 1 changing flag (N = 1) corresponds to the special symbol 1 side, and the special symbol 2 changing flag (N = 2) corresponds to the special symbol 2 side.

  Next, a decorative symbol designation command is created based on the symbol lottery result obtained in the special stop symbol creation process in step S410 (step S414) and transmitted to the effect control unit 24 (step S415). The decorative symbol designation command is composed of two bytes: an upper byte (MODE) for designating the special symbol type on the variable side, and a lower byte (EVNET) for designating the big hit type, the small hit type, and the loss type. Therefore, the decorative symbol designation command includes information on the special symbol type on the variable side and the winning category (symbol lottery result). For example, for the upper byte (MODE) side, “B5H” is set when the special symbol on the variable side is special symbol 1, “B6H” is set when the special symbol is 2, and the winning side is selected for the lower byte (EVENT) side. “01H” when the type is lost, “02H” when the 2R short-open latent probability big hit is “02H” when the 2R short-open non-probable big hit is “03H”, and “04H” when the 5R long-open positive variation big hit "05H" for 5R long open non-probable big hit, "06H" for 12R long open non-prone big hit, "07H" for 12R long open probable big hit, "08H" for 16R long open probable big hit, In the case of small hits A to B, a value that can specify the hit type or loss type such as “09H” to “10H” is set. In this embodiment, the winning type can be specified in the lower byte (EVNET). Although data is set as data for identifying the winning type, it may be a data capable of locating special stop symbol number or special symbol determination data. Since this decoration symbol designation command includes information related to the winning type, on the production control unit 24 side, mainly the combination of decoration symbols (the symbol type that constitutes the reach symbol) when forming the reach state, This is used when determining a combination of decoration symbols (decoration stop symbols) to be finally stopped and a notice effect corresponding to the winning type in the symbol variation display game.

  Then, as the change start time setting process, the special symbol operation status is switched to “Fluctuating (02H)” (02H is stored in the special symbol operation status), and 00H is stored in the determination random number storage area (cleared to zero) (step S416). ).

  As described above, when the special symbol variation start processing is exited, the special symbol display data update processing (step S309) of FIG. 16 is performed, and thus the special symbol variation display is started. As a result, the special symbol management process (step S059) is exited and the process proceeds to the special electric accessory management process (step S060) of FIG.

(9-3-1. Game state transition preparation process: FIG. 20)
Next, the gaming state transition preparation process (step S411) will be described. FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing details of the game state transition preparation process of FIG.

  In FIG. 20, the CPU 201 first acquires a jackpot determination flag and determines the state of the jackpot determination flag (step S431). If the big hit determination flag is in the OFF state (= 00H) (step S431: ≠ 5AH), the game state transition preparation process is exited without doing anything.

  When the big hit determination flag is ON (= 5 AH) (step S431: = 5 AH), the big hit gaming state transition table selection table (see FIG. 27A) is acquired (step S432).

  Next, referring to the acquired gaming state transition table selection table, a gaming state transition table (see FIG. 28) corresponding to the gaming state determination number (YJ) and the jackpot type (special symbol determination data) is acquired (step S433). ), Data determined in the gaming state transition table is stored in various buffers described later (step S434: state buffer setting process). The values stored in these buffers are read out in a jackpot end process (step S509 in FIG. 23) during the special electric utility management process described later, and are stored in predetermined storage areas of the RAM 203 (flag storage areas corresponding to the respective buffers). And the counter storage area). When the process of step S434 is completed, the game state transition preparation process is exited and the process proceeds to the special symbol variation pattern creation process (step S412) of FIG. In this game state transition preparation process, a setting process related to a game state transition when a big win is won is performed, and a setting process related to a game state transition when a small win is won is an electric game management process described later. The small hitting process in the middle (see step S504 in FIG. 23) is performed.

(T-4. Big hit game state transition table selection table: FIG. 27 (A))
FIG. 27A shows a big hit gaming state transition table selection table. In the jackpot gaming state transition table selection table of the present embodiment, a plurality of types of gaming state transition tables associated with a gaming state determination number (YJ) and a winning type (special symbol determination data: here a jackpot type) are determined. Specifically, based on the game state determination number (YJ) and the special symbol determination data, any one of a plurality of types of game state transition tables (game state transition table for jackpot) ) Is selected.

(T-5. Game state transition table: FIG. 28)
FIG. 28 shows the gaming state transition table described above. In the game state transition table of the present embodiment, “JTTBL-1” to “JTTBL-7” of the game state transition table for jackpots that can be selected in the case of jackpot, and the game for small hits that can be selected in the case of jackpot State transition tables “JTTBL-8” to “JTTBL-9” are included.

  In these game state transition tables, a plurality of types of data groups for designating game states to be transferred after winning games are defined. Specifically, the utility power release extended transition buffer, normal symbol short transition buffer, normal symbol likelihood transition buffer, special symbol short transition transition buffer, special symbol probability transition transition buffer, special symbol short transition counter buffer Various data to be stored in the special symbol probability variation counter buffer, the variation pattern distribution designation number buffer, and the special symbol variation count counter buffer are defined. The values stored in these buffers are read at a necessary timing and set in a predetermined flag storage area or a predetermined counter storage area provided in the RAM 203. When various data specified by each game state transition table are stored in each buffer, the game state after the winning game is determined.

  “JTTBL-1” to “JTTBL-7” in the game state transition table for jackpot according to the present embodiment are, in order, probability variation state, latent probability state, short time state (60 times), short time state (100 times), normal It is a game state transition table for shifting to a state, CZ (latency), and CZ (normal). Further, “JTTBL-8” to “JTTBL-9” in the game state transition table for small hits are game state transition tables for shifting to “CZ”, respectively. However, regarding “JTTBL-6” to “JTTBL-9” related to the CZ transition, “JTTBL-6” is CZ (latency: 4 times), and “JTTBL-7” is CZ continuation. CZ (3 times), “JTTBL-8” is CZ (2 times), and “JTTBL-9” is CZ (3 times). Game state transition table to be shifted to (time). The role of the various buffers described above will be described below.

(General power utility opening extension transition state buffer)
The “general utility release extension transition state buffer” is used to set a general utility release extension state flag. The “general utility release extension state flag” is a flag for designating the operation state of the release extension function. When the flag is ON (= 5 AH), The state is “present state”, and when the flag is in the OFF state (= 00H), it indicates that the open extension function is inactive and “no electric support” state.

(Normal symbol short transition buffer)
The “normal symbol short time transition state buffer” is used to set a normal symbol short time state flag. The “ordinary symbol short time state flag” is a flag for designating the operating state of the normal symbol short time function. When the flag is in the ON state (= 5 AH), the “normal symbol short time state flag” indicating that the normal symbol short time function is in operation. State ", and when the flag is in the OFF state (= 00H), it indicates that the normal symbol short function is not activated and the" normal symbol non-short state ".

(Normal symbol change transition buffer)
The “normal symbol probability change state buffer” is used to set a normal symbol probability change state flag. The “normal symbol probability changing state flag” is a flag for designating an auxiliary lottery probability state, that is, an operating state of the normal symbol probability changing function. When the flag is in the ON state (= 5 AH), the normal symbol probability changing function is set. It indicates that the state is the “probability change state per assistance” during operation, and when the flag is in the OFF state (= 00H), it indicates that it is a “low probability state per assistance” in which the normal symbol probability change function is not activated.

(Special symbol short state transition state buffer)
The “special symbol short time state transition state buffer” is used for setting a special symbol short time state flag. The “special symbol time reduction state flag” is a flag for designating the operation state of the special symbol time reduction function. State ", and when the flag is in the OFF state (= 00H), it indicates that the special symbol non-time-short state is inactive.

(Special Symbol Probability Transition Status Buffer)
The “special symbol probability change state buffer” is used to set a special symbol probability change state flag. The “special symbol probability changing state flag” is a flag for designating the operating state of the special symbol probability changing function. When the flag is in the ON state (= 5 AH), the “high probability state during the special symbol probability changing function is operating”. When the flag is in the OFF state (= 00H), it indicates that the special symbol probability changing function is not activated in a “low probability state”.

(Special design short time counter buffer)
The “special symbol short time counter buffer” is used to set a special symbol short time counter. The above “special symbol time reduction counter” means the number of remaining times until the operation of the “special symbol time reduction function” is terminated due to the number of times the special symbol fluctuates (the number of executions of the special variation display game). It is a counter for counting the remaining number of times until the end. In the present embodiment, with the end of the special symbol short-time state, the high base gaming state that is in the electric support state is also ended (see step S481 in FIG. 22B).

(Special symbol variation counter buffer)
The “special symbol probability variation counter buffer” is used to set a special symbol probability variation counter. The above “special symbol probability change counter” means the remaining number of times until the operation of the “special symbol probability change function” is finished, that is, the “high probability state” is ended due to the number of times the special symbol fluctuates (the number of executions of the special variation display game). It is a counter for counting the remaining number of times until the number of times (remaining ST number).

(Variation pattern distribution specification number buffer)
The “variation pattern allocation designation number buffer” is used for setting the variation pattern allocation designation number (Tcode). This “variation pattern allocation designation number (Tcode)” is game state data for specifying a game state. The variation pattern allocation designation number (Tcode) is set in the variation pattern allocation designation number storage area of the RAM 203 and is changed based on a predetermined change condition (game state transition condition) (special symbol confirmation time processing (Fig. 22B) steps S481, S486, S490, game state transition preparation processing (see step S411 in FIG. 19, step S434 in FIG. 20, special electric accessory management processing (FIG. 23), etc.).

(Special symbol variation counter buffer)
The “special symbol variation number counter buffer” is used for setting a special symbol variation number counter. The “special symbol variation counter” is a counter for counting the number of times of variation of a special symbol that is a gaming state transition condition (hereinafter referred to as “the prescribed number of gaming state transitions”). In the special symbol variation number counter of this embodiment, the CZ continuation number is set as the specified game state transition number, and this counter functions as a management means for managing the CZ continuation number.

(9-4. Special symbol variation processing: Fig. 21)
Next, the special symbol changing process (step S307) will be described. FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing details of the special symbol changing process (step S307) of FIG.

  In FIG. 21, the CPU 201 first determines whether or not the special symbol accessory action timer is zero, that is, whether or not the special symbol variation time has elapsed (step S451). If the special symbol accessory action timer is not zero (step S451: NO), the special symbol change time has not yet elapsed, that is, the special symbol is changing. Exit.

  If the special symbol accessory operation timer becomes zero (step S451: YES), a “variation stop command” indicating that the variation of the special symbol has ended is transmitted to the effect control unit 24 as an effect control command (step S451). S452). By this change stop command, the effect control unit 24 grasps that the change time of the special symbol has elapsed and the special symbol change display game has ended, and stops and displays (decision display) the decorative symbol that is currently displayed in the change display. As a result, the decorative symbol variation display game is also terminated along with the termination of the special symbol variation display game.

  Next, as a setting process at the time of stoppage of the special symbol fluctuation, the special symbol determination signal output time (for example, 100 ms) is stored in the special symbol determination timer of the RAM 203, and the fixed display time (for example, 500 ms) is stored in the special symbol accessory operation timer. ), The special symbol operation status is switched to “confirming (03H)” (03H is stored in the special symbol operation status), and 00H (OFF state) is stored in the special symbol changing flag (step S453). Exit the special symbol change process. The “special symbol determination signal output time” is an extra time for securing the output time of the special symbol determination signal for notifying the hall computer HC from the frame external terminal board 21 that the special symbol has been determined and displayed. It is. The “determined display time” is a time (stop display time) for holding the stop display when the special symbol change display is finished and the special symbol is stopped.

  When the process of step S453 is completed, the special symbol changing process is exited, the special symbol display data update process of step S309 of FIG. 16 is performed, the special symbol management process is exited, and the special symbol display process of step S060 of FIG. Proceed to the electric accessory management process.

(9-5. Special symbol confirmation time processing (variation stop processing): FIGS. 22A and 22B)
Next, the special symbol confirmation time processing (step S308) will be described. 22A and 22B are flowcharts showing details of the special symbol confirmation time processing (step S308) of FIG.

  22A and 22B, the CPU 201 first determines whether or not the special symbol accessory operation timer is zero (step S471). The “determined display time” is set in the special symbol accessory operation timer here. Until the special symbol accessory action timer becomes zero (step S471: NO), the process during this special symbol confirmation time is terminated without doing anything.

  If the special symbol accessory action timer reaches zero (step S471: YES), the special symbol movement status is switched to “standby (01H)”, assuming that the current special symbol fluctuation display game is over (special symbol action). (01H is stored in the status) (step S472), and the game state determination number (YJ) corresponding to the current game state is stored in the game state determination area of the RAM 203 (step S473).

  Next, the big hit determination flag is acquired, and the state of the big hit determination flag is determined (step S474).

(When the big hit judgment flag is ON)
If it is determined in step S474 that the big hit determination flag is in the ON state (= 5AH) (step S474: = 5AH), various setting processes when the big hit symbol is stopped are performed (step S475). Here, as various setting processes (pre-start process of the big hit game) at the time of the big hit symbol stop, 00H (OFF state) is stored in the big hit determination flag, 5AH (ON state) is stored in the condition device operation flag, General power release extended state flag, normal symbol short state flag, normal symbol probable state flag, special symbol short state flag, special symbol probable state flag, special symbol short time counter, special symbol probable number counter, and special symbol variation count 00H (OFF state) is stored in each of the counters, 00H (normal state specification) is stored in the variation pattern distribution designation number (Tcode), and a game state notification LED (not shown) is designated to be turned on / off. 00H is stored in the status notification LED output number, and the process during this special symbol confirmation time is exited. The “gaming state notification LED” is state notification means for notifying current game state information. The gaming state notification LED (state notification unit) of the present embodiment is used to notify whether or not the special symbol time-short state is set. The CPU 201 changes the notification mode of the game state notification LED (state notification means) according to the game state notification LED output number. For example, if the gaming state notification LED output number is “00H”, it means that the current state is not the special symbol short state (gaming state notification LED: off state (non-special symbol short state notification), and “01H”. Now, it is informed that it is in the special symbol short-time state (game state notification LED: lighting state (special symbol short-time state notification).

(When the big hit judgment flag is OFF)
If it is determined in step S474 that the big hit determination flag is in the OFF state (= 00H) (step S474: ≠ 5AH), then the small hit determination flag is acquired and the state of the small hit determination flag is determined (step S476). . When the small hit determination flag is in the OFF state (= 00H) (step S476: ≠ 5AH), the process proceeds to step S478. When the small hit determination flag is in the ON state (= 5 AH) (step S476: = 5 AH), various setting processes when the small hit symbol is stopped are performed (step S477). Here, 00H (OFF state) is stored in the small hit determination flag, and 5AH (ON state) is stored in the small hit determination flag as various setting processes (small hit game start pre-processing) when the small hit symbol is stopped. When the various setting processes at the time of the small hit symbol stop are completed, the process proceeds to step S478.

  When the processing proceeds to step S478, it is determined whether or not the special symbol time reduction counter (remaining number of special symbol time reduction states) is zero (step S478). When the special symbol time counter is zero (step S478: YES), the process proceeds to step S483 without doing anything.

  If the special symbol short time counter is not zero (step S478: NO), the special symbol short time counter is subtracted by 1 (step S479) as the digest of the current fluctuation number, and the special symbol short time counter after subtraction is zero. It is determined whether or not there is (step S480).

  If the special symbol short time counter after subtraction is not zero (step S480: NO), the number of end times of the special symbol short time state has not been reached, so the process proceeds to step S483 without doing anything.

  If the special symbol time reduction counter after subtraction is zero (step S480: YES), setting processing at the time of short time end is performed assuming that the number of times of termination of the special symbol time reduction state has been reached (step S481). Here, 00H (OFF state) is changed for each of the utility power release extended state flag, the normal symbol time-short state flag, the normal symbol probability change state flag, and the special symbol time-short state flag as setting processing at the time-short-time end. 00H is stored in the pattern allocation designation number (Tcode), and 00H (non-special symbol time-short state designation) is stored in the gaming status notification LED output number. As a result, from the next game, the player is placed in a state without power support.

  When the setting process at the time-short end in step S481 is finished, a “short-time end command” indicating that the special symbol time-short state has ended (electric supportless state transition information) is transmitted to the effect control unit 24 as an effect control command ( Step S482). Since the short end command is transmitted at the end of the current symbol variation display game, the effect control unit 24 can grasp that the next game is in the “no electric support” state before the next game starts.

  In the present embodiment, the transition from the electric support state to the no electric support state is a transition from the short-time state or the probability change state to the normal state, so the effect control unit 24 receives the “short-time end command”. For example, when starting the next decorative symbol variation display game, or in advance, the background image (background effect) for the “normal effect mode” is switched. In addition, as the launch position in the “no power support” state, an effect control process is performed for causing a “launch position guidance effect (left-handed notification effect)” to be directed to aim at the left-down flow path 3b. As a result, even if there is no operation holding ball when the current symbol variation display game ends (when the next symbol variation display game is not started), the effect mode related to the next symbol variation display game is shifted to. be able to.

  Next, when the processing proceeds to step S483, it is determined whether or not the special symbol probability variation counter (remaining ST count) is zero (step S483). In this embodiment, when the probability variation state is established, the probability variation state continues until the next big hit (the number of STs is infinite), but the probability variation state ends in time even if the game is played all day long. The number of times (for example, 10,000 times) that does not occur may be set. In this case, it is substantially the same as the probability variation state continues until the next big hit. Hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, it is assumed that “10000 times” is set in the special symbol probability variation counter.

  If the special symbol probability variation counter is zero (step S483: YES), the process proceeds to step S488.

  If the special symbol probability variation counter is not zero (step S483: NO), the special symbol probability variation counter is decremented by 1 (step S484) as the current symbol variation variation digest, and the special symbol probability variation counter after the subtraction is subtracted. Is determined to be zero (step S485).

  If the special symbol probability variation counter after subtraction is not zero (step S485: NO), the ST specified number of times (70 times) has not been reached, so the process proceeds to step S487 without doing anything.

  If the special symbol probability variation counter after subtraction is zero (step S485: YES), the setting process at the end of probability variation is performed on the assumption that the number of variations of the special symbol has reached the ST specified number (here, 10000) ( Step S486). Here, as the transition setting process to the normal gaming state at the end of the latent probability state or the probability changing state, the normal utility release extended state flag, the normal symbol short state flag, the normal symbol probable state flag, the special symbol short state flag, In addition, 00H (OFF state) is stored in each of the special symbol probability changing state flags, 00H is stored in the variation pattern allocation designation number (Tcode), and 00H (non-special symbol short-time state designation) is stored in the gaming state notification LED output number. To do. Thereby, from the next game, the jackpot lottery probability is placed from the high probability state to the low probability state.

  When the setting process at the end of the probability change in step S486 is completed, the process proceeds to step S487, and whether or not the special symbol variation number counter is zero, that is, the specified number of game state transitions (in this embodiment, the CZ continuation number). Whether or not is zero is determined (step S487).

  If the special symbol variation counter is zero (step S487: YES), the special symbol confirmation time is exited without doing anything.

  If the special symbol variation counter is not zero (step S487: NO), the special symbol variation counter is decremented by 1 (step S488) as the digest of the current variation, and the special symbol variation counter after the subtraction is zero. It is determined whether or not (step S489).

  If the special symbol variation counter after the subtraction is not zero (step S489: NO), it is determined that the game state transition prescribed number has not been reached, and the processing during this special symbol confirmation time is terminated without doing anything.

  If the special symbol variation counter after subtraction is zero (step S489: YES), the game state transition setting process is performed on the assumption that the special symbol variation number has reached the prescribed game state transition number (step S490: variation pattern change). Minute designation number setting process). Here, a transition setting process of the game state after the CZ continuation count is completed is performed. In the present embodiment, the game state of the transfer destination differs depending on whether the big hit lottery probability state at the end of CZ is a low probability state or a high probability state. Here, the game state determination number (YJ) is first acquired, and the current internal game state is the normal state (game state determination number (YJ) = 00H) or the latent state (game state determination number (YJ) = 01H). If the current internal gaming state is a normal state, that is, a low probability state, the fluctuation pattern allocation designation number (Tcode) is set to “00H” designating the normal state, and the current internal gaming state is a latent state, That is, if the state is a high probability state, the variation pattern distribution designation number (Tcode) is set to “02H” that designates the latent state. Thereby, in the next special symbol variation display game, the variation pattern of the special symbol in the “normal state” or “latent state” is selected. This step S490 process functions as a variation pattern selection condition switching means for performing switching control of a variation pattern selection condition (variation pattern selection mode) based on establishment of a predetermined condition.

  Next, a “game state designation command” including the game state information of the transfer destination is transmitted to the effect control unit 24 as an effect control command (step S491). With this “gaming state designation command”, the effect control unit 24 grasps that “CZ” ends in the current symbol variation display game, and that the next game becomes “normal state” or “latent state”. Thereby, when starting the next symbol variation display game, the effect control unit 24 controls to switch to the background image (background effect) for the “normal effect mode” or the background image for the “latent effect effect mode”. An effect control process under the effect mode is performed.

  In the present embodiment, the above-described gaming state designation command is transmitted before the variation pattern designation command relating to the next symbol variation display game is transmitted. For this reason, when receiving such a game state designation command, the production control unit 24 produces an effect for the current production mode before the variation pattern designation command related to the next symbol variation display game is sent. It is possible to switch from (for example, one background display) to another effect mode (for example, another background display). That is, before the variation pattern designation command related to the next symbol variation display game is sent, an effect related to the other variation mode appears, in other words, before the next symbol variation display game, The production related to the production mode can be made to appear. As a result, the player can perform the effects related to the next symbol variation display game even if there is no operation holding ball when the current symbol variation display game ends (when the next symbol variation display game is not started). There is an advantage that the mode can be grasped in advance.

  As described above, when the special symbol confirmation time is over, the special symbol display data update processing in step S309 in FIG. 16 is performed, and then the special symbol management processing is exited, and the special electric equipment management in step S060 in FIG. 7 is performed. Proceed to processing.

(10. Special electric equipment management process: FIG. 23)
Next, the special electric accessory management process (step S060) in FIG. 7 will be described. FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing details of the special electric accessory management process in step S060.

  In FIG. 23, the CPU 201 first determines the state of the small hitting flag (step S501). When the small hitting flag is ON (= 5AH) (step S501: = 5AH), the small hit for controlling a series of operations of the special variable winning device (open / closed opening / closing control) related to the small hit game. A process is performed (step S504), and this special electric accessory management process is exited.

  If the small hitting flag is in the OFF state (= 00H) (step S501: ≠ 5AH), then the state of the condition device operation flag is determined (step S502). When the condition device operation flag is in the OFF state (= 00H) (step S502: ≠ 5AH), in this case, it is not in the small hit game (step S501: ≠ 5AH) and is not in the big hit game. Exit the special electric property management process.

  When the condition device operation flag is in the ON state (= 5AH) (step S502: = 5AH), processing according to the special electric accessory operation status (00H to 04H) is performed (step S503: special electric accessory status branching process). . The “special electric accessory operation status” is a status value indicating the behavior of the special variable prize winning devices 42 and 52. This status value is changed according to the processing state, and the special electric accessory operation status storage area of the RAM 203 is stored. Stored in

  In the special electric accessory operation status branching process in step S503, a process corresponding to the special electric accessory operation status value is called and executed. Specifically, when the operation status of the special electric accessory is “starting process (00H)”, the big hit start process (step S505) is performed. In the case where the accessory actuating start process (step S506) is in operation (02H), the special electric accessory actuating process (step S507) is in effect. In the case where the accessory operation continuation determination process (step S508) is “ending process (04H)”, the jackpot end process (step S509) is called and executed. By these processes, the operation of the special variable winning device 52 related to the big hit game is controlled. Here, “being started (00H)” indicates that the player is in a standby state before the jackpot game starts, and “operation start process (01H)” is that the player is in a standby state before starting the round game. “In operation (02H)” indicates that a round game is being executed, and “Continuing determination (03H)” indicates that it is being determined whether or not to continue the next round game. “Big jackpot end process in progress (04H)” indicates that the big hit game is ending. When one of the processes in steps S505 to S509 is completed, the special electric accessory management process is exited, and the process proceeds to the right-handed notification information management process in step S061 in FIG.

  The big hit game control process (steps S505 to S509) and the small hit game control process (step S504) will be described below.

<Big hit game control processing (steps S505 to S509)>
(10-1. Big hit start process: Step S505)
First, the big hit starting process (step S505) will be described.

  At the start of the big hit game, the special electric accessory operation status is set to “starting process (00H)” of the initial status value. Therefore, when a big hit is made, the big hit starting process is first performed.

  Here, as a setting process at the time of starting the big hit game necessary for starting the big hit game, 5AH (ON state) is stored in the accessory continuous operation device operation flag, and the special electric accessory operation status is set to “operation start process”. "Middle (01H)" (01H is stored in the special electric accessory operation status), and 01H is stored in the continuous counter. The above-mentioned “actual accessory continuous actuating device operation flag” is a flag for designating the operating state of the accessory continuous actuating device. When the flag is in the ON state (= 5 AH), the accessory continuous actuating device is operating. This indicates that the round game can be continued, and when the flag is in the OFF state (= 00H), it indicates that the accessory continuous operation device is inactive (round game cannot be continued). The “continuous number counter” is a counter for managing the number of continuous executions of the round game, and the current round number is stored here. Since “01H” is set in the continuous number counter here, the current round number indicates the 1Rth.

  Next, a “big hit start setting table (not shown)” in which the maximum number of rounds (specified number of rounds) and round display LED numbers according to the special symbol determination data (big hit type) is determined is acquired. Referring to this jackpot start setting table, each data corresponding to the special symbol judgment data (big jackpot type) of this time is stored in the storage area of the corresponding RAM 203, and “start interval” is set in the special symbol actor operation timer. Stores time. The “starting interval time” is an interval interval from when the special symbol fixed display time elapses and the jackpot is determined to when the special variable winning devices 42 and 52 are activated, and during which the opening effect is performed. Indicates the time span (the first performance time before the first round game is performed). The “round display LED number” is data for designating the notification mode of the round number display device (round number display means), and is data for designating the maximum number of rounds (specified number of rounds) of the current big hit game.

  Next, a “hit hit start interval command” instructing the start of the opening effect is transmitted to the effect control unit 24, and the process goes to the right-handed notification information management process of step S 061 in FIG. In addition to the role of instructing the start of the opening effect, the “hit start interval command” includes information that can specify the current jackpot type and the gaming state at the time of the jackpot winning. It is also used when determining a series of hit effects (opening effect corresponding to each jackpot type, round effect, round end effect, ending effect, etc.) developed during the big hit game. As described above, when the big hit starting process is finished, the big hit game is started together with the opening effect.

(10-2. Special electric accessory operation start processing: Step S506)
Next, the special electric accessory operation start process (step S506) will be described.

  Here, first, it is determined whether or not the special symbol accessory operation timer is zero. In this special symbol accessory operation timer, “interval time before starting round game” is set. As the interval time, in the first round (1R), the “start interval time” set in the jackpot start process (step S505) is monitored. When passing (step S506), “interval time before opening (interval time set in special electric accessory operation continuation determination process (step S508) described later)” is monitored. Until the special symbol accessory operation timer reaches zero, the special electric accessory operation start process is exited without doing anything.

  On the other hand, if the special symbol accessory action timer is zero, that is, if the interval time before opening (in the case of the first round (1R), the start interval time) has elapsed, the special symbol determination data (big hit type) and the current round An opening / closing operation pattern of the lower prize opening 40 or the right big prize opening 50 according to the number is set (large prize opening opening / closing operation setting process). Specifically, the opening / closing operation time of the big winning opening for opening the lower winning opening 40 or the right winning opening 50 (for example, 29.8 seconds for the long opening time, 0.1 for the short opening time). Second) is stored in the special symbol accessory operation timer, and control data for solenoid for controlling the special winning opening solenoid 42c or the special winning opening solenoid 52c is set. As a result, the special prize opening solenoid 42c or the special prize opening solenoid 52c is operated, and the lower major prize opening 40 or the right major prize opening 50 is opened with the upper prize opening / closing operation time as an upper limit. Also, in response to the start operation for opening the big prize opening, a “big prize opening command” is transmitted to the effect control unit 24. This “big prize opening release command” includes round game start information (round production start instruction information) and current round number information, and when the production control unit 24 causes a round production corresponding to the number of rounds to appear. Used for When the special prize opening / closing operation setting process is completed, the special electric accessory operation status is switched to “Active (02H)” (02H is stored in the special electric accessory operation status), and the special electric accessory management process is exited. The process proceeds to the right-handed notification information management process in step S061 of FIG.

(10-3. Special electric equipment during operation)
Next, the special electric accessory operating process (step S507) will be described.

  Here, first, the number of winning balls to the lower winning hole 40 or the right winning hole 50 is counted, and it is confirmed whether or not the number of winning balls has reached the maximum winning number (large winning opening maximum winning number confirmation processing). ) When the maximum number of winnings is reached, the special symbol accessory operation timer is cleared. As a result, the timer value set in the special electric accessory operation start process (step S506) is forcibly set to zero, and when the maximum winning number is reached, the lower major winning opening 40 or the right major winning opening being opened is reached. 50 is closed. Until the special symbol accessory action timer reaches zero (until the opening time of the big prize opening expires or the maximum number of winnings is reached), this special electric accessory operating process is performed without doing anything. Exit. Further, here, when a winning occurs at the big winning opening (when the lower large winning opening sensor or the right large winning opening sensor detects a game ball), a “large winning opening winning command” is transmitted. This “big prize opening prize command” is an effect in which the production control unit 24 side informs the occurrence of winning in the big prize opening, the production informing the number of winning prizes in the big prize opening during this round, This is used when an effect that informs the total number of winnings appears.

  If the special symbol feature action timer reaches zero (when the maximum number of winnings has been reached or when the opening time of the big prize opening has elapsed), the round winning prize opening in this round game will be closed. "End command" is transmitted to the production control unit 24, and the special electric accessory operation status is switched to "Continuing judgment (03H)" (03H is stored in the special electric accessory operation status) and remains in the special symbol accessory operation timer The ball discharge time (for example, 1980 ms) is stored, the process of exiting the special electric-powered object operation is terminated, and the process proceeds to the right-handed notification information management process of step S061 in FIG. The “round end command” is used when the “round end effect” appears during the interval time between round games on the effect control unit 24 side.

(10-4. Special electric equipment operation continuation determination process)
Next, the special electric accessory operation continuation determination process (step S508) will be described.

  Here, first, it is determined whether or not the special symbol accessory operation timer is zero. Since the above-mentioned remaining ball discharge time after closing the big prize opening is set in the special symbol accessory operation timer here (see the special electric accessory operating process (step S507)), this remaining ball discharge time is set. It is determined whether or not it has elapsed. Until the special symbol accessory operation timer reaches zero, the special electric accessory operation continuation determination process is terminated without doing anything.

  On the other hand, if the special symbol accessory operation timer reaches zero (remaining ball discharge time elapses), the continuous number counter is acquired to determine whether the current number of rounds has reached the specified number of rounds (maximum number of rounds). judge. If the maximum number of rounds has not been reached, 1 is added to the continuation counter (+1) as the process for continuing the round game, and the “interval before opening” is stored in the special symbol accessory operation timer. The object operation status is switched to “operation starting process (01H)” (01H is stored in the special electric accessory operation status). As a result, the special electric accessory operation continuation determination process is exited, and the process proceeds to the right-handed notification information management process of step S061 in FIG.

  When the current number of rounds reaches the maximum number of rounds, the “end interval time” is stored in the special symbol accessory action timer, and then the special electric accessory action status is “finished” as various setting processes at the end of the round game. “Processing (04H)” (04H is stored in the special electric accessory operation status). The above “end interval time” is an interval section from the end of the round game of the final round to the end of the jackpot game after the remaining ball discharge time has elapsed, and defines the section where the ending effect is performed. Refers to the time span.

  Then, a “big hit end interval command” instructing the start of the ending effect is transmitted to the effect control unit 24, and the special electric accessory operation continuation determination process is exited, and the right-handed notification information management process in step S 061 in FIG. 7 is performed. move on. This `` hit end interval command '' includes information about the current jackpot type and the gaming state at the time of winning the jackpot, that is, information that can specify the gaming state (including the internal gaming state) after the jackpot game ends, This is also used when determining the effect mode after the big hit game on the effect control unit 24 side. Therefore, this “big hit end interval command” can be used to specify the gaming state after the big hit game is finished, as well as the role of instructing the start of the ending effect. ing. The effect control unit 24 determines the effect mode based on the information included in the jackpot end interval command, thereby ensuring consistency between the game state after the jackpot end and the effect mode related to the game state. It is like that.

  Note that the information on the gaming state at the time of winning the above-mentioned jackpot can include information on the variation pattern allocation designation number or information on the variation pattern allocation designation number and the internal gaming status. When the game state at the time is CZ, the information that can specify whether the game state at the time of winning is “CZ (normal)” or “CZ (latency)” distinguished by the internal game state Is included. The jackpot end interval command may be a single command or a plurality of commands. In the case of multiple commands, for example, one jackpot end interval command includes information that can specify the current jackpot type, and the other jackpot end interval command can specify the gaming state at the time of winning the jackpot These commands can be included, and these commands can be transmitted simultaneously or sequentially to the effect control unit 24 at the necessary timing. In the present embodiment, when a plurality of types of information are included in the effect control command and transmitted to the effect control unit 24, the information may be included in a single effect control command and transmitted to the effect control unit 24. The effect control unit is divided into an effect control command including one information and an effect control command including other information, and the role of the single effect control command is divided into a plurality of effect control commands. It is good also as a structure which transmits to 24.

(10-5. Big hit end processing)
Next, the big hit end process (step S509) will be described.

  Here, first, it is determined whether or not the special symbol accessory operation timer is zero. Since the end interval time is set in the special symbol accessory operation timer here, it is determined whether or not the end interval time has elapsed. Until the special symbol accessory action timer reaches zero, the jackpot end process is skipped without doing anything, and the process proceeds to the right-handed notification information management process of step S061 in FIG.

  When the special symbol accessory operation timer reaches zero (the end interval time elapses), the value of each transition state buffer is stored in each state flag, and the gaming state after the big hit game is designated. Specifically, the value of the transition state buffer set in the game state transition preparation process in step S411 (see step S411 in FIG. 19, see FIG. 20 showing the details) during the special symbol variation start process is used as the game state. To specify the utility power open extended state flag, normal symbol short state flag, normal symbol probable state flag, special symbol short state flag, special symbol probable state flag, special symbol short time counter, special symbol probable number counter, It is stored in the variation pattern allocation designation number and the special symbol variation counter. Thereby, the gaming state after the big hit game is specified.

  Next, various setting processes at the end of the big hit are performed. Here, as various data used during the big hit game control processing, the condition device operation flag, the accessory continuous operation device operation flag, the continuous number counter, the maximum number of rounds, the round display LED number, various buffers, etc. are cleared respectively. The special electric accessory operation status is switched to “Starting process (00H)” (00H is stored in the special electric accessory operation status).

  Next, a game state notification information update process for updating the game state notification information is performed. Here, it is confirmed whether the special symbol short-time state flag is in the ON state (= 5 AH) or OFF state (≠ 5 AH). 01H is stored in the output number.

  When the jackpot ending process is completed, a series of control processes related to the jackpot game is completed. After exiting the big hit end process, the process proceeds to the right-handed notification information management process of step S061 in FIG.

<Small hit game control processing>
(10-6. Small hit processing)
Next, the small hit process (step S504) will be described.

  In the small hit game, the “round game” like the big hit game is not executed. Therefore, as described above, the operation mode during the small hit game is “2R latent big hit game”, “2R normal big hit game A”, “2R normal big hit game B” (hereinafter, “2R series big hit game”). The process for controlling the opening / closing operation pattern of the big prize opening is performed so as to be substantially the same as the operation mode of “abbreviated“) ”. In the present embodiment, since the small hit is a big hit lottery object on the special figure 1 side, here, processing for controlling the opening / closing operation pattern of the lower big prize winning opening 40 is performed.

  When the small hit processing is entered, first, the “start interval time” in the small hit game is set in the special symbol accessory operation timer, and a “small hit start command” instructing the start of the opening effect is transmitted to the effect control unit 24. . If the start interval has elapsed, then a small hit game state transition preparation process for designating the game state after the small hit game, which will be described later, is performed, and then the opening / closing operation of the lower big prize opening 40 is “2R type big hit game” The control data for solenoid for controlling the lower prize winning solenoid 42c is set so as to be the same or very similar to the operation mode. As a result, the lower prize winning opening 40 is opened like a 2R system big hit game, and a pseudo round game during the small hit game is executed. It should be noted that the maximum number of winnings in the lower prize winning opening 40 during the small hit game is the same as that due to the big winning (for example, 9), and when the maximum winning number is reached, the lower winning prize opening 40 is closed. Migrated. However, since the round game like the big hit game is not executed in the small hit game, the pseudo round game itself is ended when the maximum winning number is reached.

  When the series of opening / closing operations of the lower prize winning opening 40 is completed, a “small hit end command” instructing the start of the ending effect is transmitted to the effect control unit 24. The “small hit end command” includes information that can specify the type of the small hit this time and the gaming state at the time of winning the small hit, and the effect control unit 24 determines the post-small hit effect mode. It is also used when Therefore, this small hitting end command also has a role as a gaming state designation command for designating a gaming state in addition to a role for instructing the start of the ending effect, and has the same function as the “big hitting end interval command” related to the big hit game. This is an effect control command.

<10-6-1. Preliminary gaming state transition preparation process>
Next, the small hit game state transition preparation process will be described.

  In the small hit game state transition preparation process, a setting process for specifying the game state after the small hit game is performed in order to specify the game state after the small hit game. Specifically, the variation pattern allocation designation number (Tcode) is acquired first, and then the gaming state transition table selection table for small hits (FIG. 27 (B)) is acquired. Then, referring to the small hit game state transition table selection table, based on the variation pattern allocation designation number and the small hit type (special symbol determination data), the game state transition table “JTTBL-8” or “JTTBL- 9 ”is acquired, and the game state transition table is referred to, and the corresponding data is stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 203 (fluctuation pattern allocation designation number storage area and special symbol variation number counter). Thereby, the game state after the small hit game is designated.

(T-6. Game state transition table selection table for small hits: FIG. 27 (b))
FIG. 27 (b) shows a small hit gaming state transition table selection table. The game state transition table selection table for small hits according to the present embodiment includes a plurality of types of games associated with a variation pattern allocation designation number (Tcode) and a winning type (special symbol determination data: here, a small hit type). State transition tables “JTTBL-8” and “JTTBL-9” are defined. Specifically, a plurality of types of game state transition tables based on the variation pattern allocation designation number (Tcode) and special symbol determination data. One of the game state transition tables (game state transition table for small hits) is determined.

(T-7. Game state transition table for small hits: FIG. 28 (b))
With reference to FIG. 28 (b), the small hit gaming state transition tables “JTTBL-8” and “JTTBL-9” will be described. These small hit gaming state transition tables include data for storing in the variation pattern allocation designation number storage area and the special symbol variation number counter as data for designating the gaming state to be transferred after the small hit game. It has been established. When these data values are stored in the variation pattern distribution designation number storage area and the special symbol variation number counter, the gaming state after the small hit game is identified. Here, in “JTTBL-8” and “JTTBL-9”, only the data to be stored in the fluctuation pattern allocation designation number buffer and the special symbol fluctuation count counter buffer is determined. However, there is no transition of the internal gaming state, and only the transition of the gaming state as the variation pattern selection mode (change of the variation pattern assignment designation number (Tcode)) is performed.

  In the small hit game state transition table selection table, the game state at the time of winning the small hit is the normal state (variation pattern distribution designation number 00H) or CZ (variation pattern distribution designation number 06H). Only in some cases, either the small hit game state transition table “JTTBL-8” or “JTTBL-9” is selected. That is, when the gaming state is a probability variation state (variation pattern allocation designation number 01H), a latent probability state (variation pattern allocation designation number 02H), and a short time state (variation pattern allocation designation number 03H), the gaming state transition No, the game state at the time of winning the small hit is continued, and if the small win is won during CZ, either the small hit game state transition table “JTTBL-8” or “JTTBL-9” is selected again Thus, the number of CZ continuations is reset according to the small hit type (see FIG. 28 (B)).

  When the small hit process is completed, the process proceeds to the right-handed notification information management process in step S061 of FIG.

<Processing on the production control unit side: FIGS. 24 to 26>
Next, with reference to FIGS. 24 to 26, the effect control processing on the effect control unit 24 side of the present embodiment will be described. The process on the side of the effect control unit 24 mainly includes a predetermined main process (effect control side main process: FIG. 24) and a timer interrupt process (effect control side timer interrupt process: FIG. 26) activated by a scheduled interrupt. It is comprised including.

<11. Production control side main processing: FIG. 24>
FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing a main process (effect control side main process) on the effect control unit side. The effect control unit 24 (CPU 241) starts the main process on the effect control side shown in FIG. 24 when the gaming machine main body is turned on from the outside.

  In the main process on the effect control side, the CPU 241 first performs a necessary initial setting process before starting the game operation (step S071). Here, as the initial setting processing, for example, command reception interrupt setting, moving object starting point return processing, CTC initial setting, timer interrupt permission, initial setting of CPU internal register values including each part of the microcomputer, etc. I do.

  When the initial setting process in step S071 is completed, the main loop process in steps S073 to S078 is performed at predetermined time intervals as the process during normal operation, and otherwise the effect soft random number update process in step S079 is repeated.

  In the process of step S072, the CPU 241 refers to the counter value for main loop update period and determines whether or not the main loop update period that triggers the execution of the main loop process has arrived (step S072). The main loop update cycle counter is a counter that is updated in a main loop update process (step S096 in FIG. 26) during an effect control side timer interrupt process described later. In the present embodiment, the main loop process is performed every 16 ms. Until this main loop update period arrives (step S072: NO), various effect lottery random numbers are updated (step S079: various effect soft random number update processing).

  When the main loop update period has arrived (step S072: YES), the CPU 241 performs a received command analysis process (step S073). In this received command analysis process, it is monitored whether or not an effect control command is stored in the command reception buffer. If an effect control command is stored, this command is read and the effect control process corresponding to the read effect control command is read. I do. Among these effect control commands, the hold addition command, the universal figure hold addition command, the hold subtraction command, the universal figure hold subtraction command, the variation pattern designation command, the normal symbol variation pattern designation command, the decorative symbol designation command, which have already been described, Sub-designation command per assistance, variable stop command, various commands transmitted during hit games and open-game games are included.

  For example, when at least a variation pattern designation command is received and stored in the reception buffer (in this embodiment, the variation pattern designation command and the decorative symbol designation command are received and stored in the reception buffer. In the case of command analysis processing, one or more types of effect patterns are determined based on information (variation pattern information and winning information (or winning type information)) included in the command. The effect pattern determined here works as a “part effect” as an element constituting the effect scenario. Next, determine the time schedule for how and at what timing the production pattern (parts production) determined above will appear, and compose the production scenario. The production scenario data is stored in the scenario setting area of the RAM 243. Various production patterns (part production) incorporated in this production scenario are developed one after another or simultaneously, thereby realizing an “production scenario” in a broad sense. Note that the above-described production scenario is rewritten to a different production scenario as necessary (for example, a part production for operation may be incorporated based on operation detection of the frame production button 13). In this case, the changed effect scenario data is reset in the scenario setting area, and an effect appears based on the changed effect scenario data.

  When the received command analysis process in step S073 is completed, a scenario update process is performed (step S074). In this scenario update process, the contents of the timer necessary for execution of the production pattern are updated. A typical example of the timer is an effect scenario timer that manages a time schedule related to the occurrence timing of the effect. For example, the time within the variation period (decoration symbol variation period) in which the decorative symbol is variably displayed is within the same period as the variation period (special symbol variation period) in which the special symbol is variably displayed. On this axis, a time schedule for what kind of production pattern is made to appear in the production means with what time width is managed by this timer. Such an effect scenario timer is also used in an effect process related to an LED data update process (step S075) and an effect agent control data update process (step S077) which will be described later. Here, this production scenario timer is monitored, and when the production time of one production comes, the sound data for the speaker 46 and the liquid crystal command for image display control are created and stored in the designated area of the RAM 243, respectively. . The LED data for the light display device is created by an LED data update process (step S075) described later, and the motor control data for the movable body accessory is created by an after-mentioned effect actor control data update process (step 077). The

  Next, LED data update processing is performed (step S075). In this LED data update process, LED data for a light display device such as a decorative lamp unit 45 or an LED is created based on the effect scenario data and the effect scenario timer, and stored in a designated area of the RAM 243. The data created here is used in an effect LED management process (step S095 in FIG. 26) during a timer interrupt process to be described later.

  Next, sound output processing is performed (step S076). In this sound output process, the sound data created in the scenario update process in step S074 is acquired, and if there is sound data to be reproduced, a sound effect is output from the speaker 46 through the sound control unit (sound source LSI). Thereby, the sound production according to the production scenario is realized.

  Next, a production accessory control data update process is performed (step S077). In the effect accessory control data update process, drive control data for the movable accessory motor 97a or the movable accessory motor 98a is created based on the effect scenario data and the effect scenario timer. The data created here is used in a director action operation management process (step S094 in FIG. 26) during a timer interrupt process described later.

  Next, noise countermeasure management processing for monitoring malfunction of the sound source LSI or the like is performed (step S078). If the program goes into a runaway state due to a malfunction, the watchdog timer expires and the CPU is automatically reset to recover from the runaway state. Thereby, the main loop process is terminated, and the effect soft random number update process in step S079 is performed until the next main loop update period comes.

(12. Command reception interrupt processing: FIG. 25)
Next, the command reception interrupt process will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing command reception interrupt processing on the effect control side. This command reception interruption process is executed with higher priority than an effect control side timer interrupt process (FIG. 26) described later when an effect control command is received from the main control unit 20.

  First, when an interruption based on the strobe signal from the main control unit 20 occurs during execution of the main process shown in FIG. 24, the effect control unit 24 (CPU 241) saves the contents of the register in the stack area (step S081). The received effect control command is stored in the command reception buffer of the RAM 243 (step S082), and the saved register contents are restored (step S083). Thereby, the command reception interrupt process is ended, the process returns to the effect control unit side main process before the interruption, and the effect control side main process is performed until an interrupt based on the next strobe signal is generated. As described above, when various effect control commands sent from the main control unit 20 are received, this command reception interrupt process is executed, and when the effect control command is received, the command is stored in the command reception buffer. Is done.

(13. Production control side timer interrupt processing: FIG. 26)
Next, with reference to FIG. 26, the timer interrupt process on the production control side will be described. FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing the effect control-side timer interrupt process. This production control side timer interruption process is started by interruption every predetermined time (about 1 ms), and is executed by interruption during execution of the production control side main process.

  In FIG. 26, when a timer interrupt occurs, the CPU 201 saves the contents of the register in the stack area (step S091), and then performs an effect button input management process (step S092). In this effect button input management process, whether or not an operation (ON operation) detection signal is input from the frame effect button 13 is monitored, and when it is confirmed that the operation detection signal has been received, the detection information is stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 243. To store. This information is used for the button notice effect.

  Next, a liquid crystal command transmission process is performed (step S093). In this liquid crystal command transmission process, when there is a liquid crystal command created in the scenario update process (step S074) in the effect control side main process of FIG. 24, the liquid crystal command is transmitted to the display control unit (liquid crystal control CPU). Thus, image display control for the liquid crystal display device 36 is executed. Thereby, the image production along the production scenario is realized.

  Next, directing action operation management is performed (step S094). In this production actor operation management, based on the motor control data for the movable object created in the production actor control data update process (step S077), the movable article motor 97a or the movable article through the drive control unit. A control signal is output to the motor 98a. Thereby, the visual production | presentation by the movable body accessory (The clock hand 97 of a clock type accessory, the flower type accessory 98) along a production scenario is implement | achieved.

  Next, effect LED management is performed (step S095). In this effect LED management, based on the LED data created in the LED data update process (step S075), the decorative lamp unit 45 and the LED are turned on and blinked through the light display control unit. Thereby, the light effect according to the effect scenario is realized.

  Next, a main loop update process for managing the main loop update period is performed (step S096). In this main loop update process, the main loop update cycle counter is updated for each interrupt (main loop update cycle counter + 1). The main loop update cycle counter is a counter that circulates in a range of multiples of 16 (for example, 0 to 31) by increment processing, for example.

  After the processing of steps S091 to S096 is completed, the saved register contents are restored (step S097). As a result, the timer interruption process is terminated, the process returns to the effect control side main process before the interruption, and the effect control side main process is performed until the next timer interrupt occurs.

  In the above-described embodiment, the pachinko gaming machine (bullet ball gaming machine) has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and gaming machines to which the present invention can be applied (for example, enclosed gaming machines, revolving gaming machines, etc.) ) Is not particularly limited.

  The present invention is useful for a game machine using a game ball or a game medium corresponding thereto.

1 Pachinko machine,
2 Front frame,
3 Game board,
3a gaming area,
4 outer frame,
5 ball guide rail,
6 Glass door,
7 Front operation panel
8 Upper tray unit,
9 Top saucer,
11 Ball rental button,
12 Card return button,
13 Frame production button,
14 Ball release button,
15 Launch control handle,
19 game ball dispensing device,
20 Main control unit,
21 External terminal board for frame,
24 production control unit,
28 Launch control board,
29 payout control board,
32 launcher,
34 Upper starting port,
34a Upper start sensor,
35 Lower starting port,
35a Lower start sensor,
36 liquid crystal display devices,
37 Normal design starting port,
37a Normal design start sensor,
38a, 38b Special symbol display device,
40, 50 Big prize opening,
41 Ordinary variable winning device,
41c Ordinary electric accessory solenoid,
42,52 Special variable prize device,
42a, 52a Big prize opening sensor,
42b, 52b open door,
42c, 52c
43 General prize opening,
43a General prize opening sensor,
44 Windmill,
45 Decorative lamp,
45a optical display device,
46 speakers,
46a sound generator,
47 Movable wing pieces,
48 Center decoration,
49 Out mouth,
72 Replenishment detection sensor,
73 ball counting sensor,
74 Dispensing motor,
80 The first movable body accessory,
98 second movable object,
97a, 98a Movable body accessory motor,
97b, 98b position detection sensor,
99 Fraud detection sensor 201 Main control CPU,
202 main control ROM,
203 main control RAM,
241 Production control CPU,
242 Production control ROM,
243 Production control RAM.

Claims (2)

Variable winning means configured to be convertible into a winning easy state that makes it easy to enter the game ball into the special symbol starting means and a difficult winning state that makes it difficult or impossible to enter the game ball;
A winning lottery means for executing a winning lottery regarding whether or not to execute a winning game when the special symbol starting means detects a game ball;
A special symbol display means for executing a special symbol variation display operation and stopping and displaying the special symbol in a display mode according to the lottery result by the winning lottery means;
Special symbol display control means for controlling the variation display operation of the special symbol in the special symbol display means;
Special game execution control means for controlling execution of the winning game after a predetermined winning symbol is stopped and displayed on the special symbol display means;
When the normal symbol starting means detects the game ball, the auxiliary winning for executing the auxiliary winning lottery regarding whether or not to execute the auxiliary winning game for changing the variable winning means from the difficult winning state to the easy winning state. Lottery means;
A normal symbol display means for executing a normal symbol variation display operation, and stopping and displaying the normal symbol in a display mode according to the lottery result by the auxiliary per lottery means;
Normal symbol display control means for controlling the fluctuation display operation of the normal symbol in the normal symbol display means;
Auxiliary game execution control means for controlling execution of the auxiliary per game after a predetermined auxiliary per symbol is stopped and displayed on the normal symbol display means;
In a ball game machine equipped with
The normal symbol display control means includes:
A fixed display time setting means for setting a fixed display time for stopping the normal symbol on the normal symbol display means after the normal symbol variation display is terminated;
Normal symbol stop display means for stopping and displaying the normal symbol on the normal symbol display means until the fixed display time set by the fixed display time determination means elapses,
The fixed display time setting means includes
If the auxiliary per lottery means does not execute the per-assistance game, a predetermined stop display time is set as the fixed display time,
If the auxiliary per lottery means is selected to execute the per-assistance game, a time sufficiently shorter than the predetermined stop display time or zero is set as the fixed display time.
A ball game machine characterized by that. When the winning game is completed, a bonus game that generates a bonus gaming state with a normal symbol high probability state in which the auxiliary per lottery means draws the execution of the auxiliary bonus game with a higher probability than the predetermined probability of the normal gaming state. Further comprising control means,
The fixed display time setting means includes
If the lottery means for assistance is executed by the lottery means for assistance during the bonus game state, when the lottery is selected, a time sufficiently shorter than the predetermined stop display time or zero is set as the fixed display time.
The bullet ball game machine according to claim 1, wherein:

Images