JP2017104341A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To enhance fun of a game by executing a performance for entertaining a player.SOLUTION: A game machine executes a win/lose performance for pushing a performance button in succession before execution of a gimmick performance (Fig. 12-2(t11)) for suggesting a jackpot. The win/lose performance includes a first win/lose performance (Fig. 12-2(t7)), and a second win/lose performance (Fig. 12-2(t8)) having a degree of expectation higher than that of the first win/lose performance. Before the win/lose performance, the game machine executes a guide performance for guiding successive pushing of the performance button in advance. The guide performance includes a first guide performance (Fig. 12-2(t5)), and a second guide performance (Fig. 12-2(t6)) having a degree of expectation higher than that of the first guide performance. When jackpot determination results in a jackpot, a performance of a pattern as the second guide performance → the win/lose performance → the gimmick performance can occur more easily than a performance of a pattern as the first guide performance → the first win/lose performance → the gimmick performance.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 12-2

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine that determines whether or not to play a special game advantageous to a player and performs a special game based on the determination result.

  Conventionally, when a game ball launched into a game area wins a start opening provided in the game area, a jackpot determination is made as to whether or not a jackpot game is performed, and a predetermined symbol (for example, a so-called “special symbol”) is determined. There was a gaming machine that was stopped so as to show the jackpot determination result after changing. Some of these gaming machines are provided with operation buttons (for example, so-called “chance buttons”) that can be operated by the player, and perform predetermined effects based on the operation of the operation buttons. (See, for example, Patent Document 1 below).

JP 2010-029441 A

  In the prior art, the player's sense of expectation and willingness to operate cannot be increased, and there are cases where the interest of the game cannot be increased.

  An object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that can enhance the interest of the game in order to solve the problems caused by the prior art.

  In order to solve the above-described problems and achieve the object, the gaming machine according to the present invention can be operated by the player and a judging means for judging whether or not to play a special game advantageous to the player (for example, a big hit game). And an effect control means capable of controlling the effect means (for example, the speaker 114 and the image display unit 104) and executing a predetermined effect based on the determination result of the determination means. The effect control means can execute an operation effect (for example, a winning effect) that prompts the user to operate the operation means with a predetermined operation content (for example, repeated hits), and the special game may be performed. It is possible to execute a specific effect (for example, a gimmick effect) suggesting that the operation means is operated in response to the operation means being operated with the predetermined operation content in the operation effect. When executing the operation effect, it is possible to execute a guidance effect for guiding the predetermined operation content to the player before executing the operation effect, and as the operation effect, according to the first effect mode, When a first operation effect (for example, a first winning effect) that prompts an operation with a predetermined operation content is executed, and when a second operation mode that is different from the first effect mode is performed, the first operation effect is urged to be operated with the predetermined operation content. There are times when two operation effects (for example, second winning effect) are executed, and when the first guidance effect that guides the predetermined operation content by the third effect mode is executed as the guide effect, the third And executing a second guidance effect that guides the predetermined operation content in a fourth effect mode different from the effect mode, and in the first operation effect, the operation means is within the predetermined operation. When the operation means is operated with the predetermined operation content in the second operation effect, the specific effect is easily executed after that, and the first guidance effect is executed. The second operation effect is more easily executed as the subsequent operation effect when the second guidance effect is executed than when the second operation effect is executed.

  According to the present invention, there is an effect that the interest of the game can be enhanced.

It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the basic composition of the game machine of this Embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the internal structure of the game machine of this Embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the functional structure of the game machine of this Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing (the 1) which shows the outline | summary of the production | presentation which the game machine of this Embodiment performs. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the process which the main control part of this Embodiment performs. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the jackpot determination in this Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the fluctuation pattern determination in this Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the process which the production control part of this Embodiment performs. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the production pattern in this Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the process which the image and audio | voice control part of this Embodiment performs. It is explanatory drawing which shows the outline | summary of the lottery process which the image and audio | voice control part of this Embodiment performs. It is explanatory drawing (the 1) which shows the specific example of an effect by the game machine of this Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing (the 2) which shows the specific example of an effect by the game machine of this Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing (the 2) which shows the outline | summary of the production | presentation which the gaming machine of this Embodiment performs.

  Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of a gaming machine according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the present embodiment, an example in which the gaming machine according to the present invention is applied to a pachinko gaming machine (so-called “digipachi”) belonging to the former type 1 will be described, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the gaming machine according to the present invention may be applied to a revolving gaming machine called a “slot machine”.

(Basic configuration of gaming machine of this embodiment)
First, the basic configuration of the gaming machine of the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a basic configuration of the gaming machine according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the gaming machine 100 according to the present embodiment includes a gaming board 101. Below the game board 101, a launching unit (see reference numeral 292 in FIG. 2) for launching a game ball is provided. The game ball launched by the launching unit rises along the rail 102 and reaches the upper position of the game board 101, and then falls within the game area 103. Although not shown, the game area 103 is provided with a large number of nails and windmills. As a result, the falling trajectory of the game ball is difficult for the player to predict.

  An image display unit 104 is provided in the approximate center of the game board 101. The image display unit 104 displays effect designs, background images, effect images of various effects (for example, reach effects), and the like. A liquid crystal display or the like can be used for the image display unit 104.

  In the game board 101, a first start port 105 is provided below the image display unit 104, and a second start port 106 is provided to the right of the first start port 105. The first start port 105 is provided in a region where a game ball launched by so-called “left strike” (that is, a game ball launched with a firing strength less than a predetermined value) falls. The second starting port 106 is provided in a region where a game ball launched by so-called “right-handed” (that is, a game ball launched with a firing strength of a predetermined value or more) falls.

  Therefore, the player can aim to win the first starting port 105 or aim to win the second starting port 106 by adjusting the firing strength of the game ball. Note that the gaming machine 100 pays out a predetermined number (for example, three balls) of winning balls every time a gaming ball wins the first starting port 105 or the second starting port 106.

  The second starting port 106 is provided with an ordinary electric accessory (so-called “electric tulip”) 107 that can be opened and closed. When the ordinary electric accessory 107 is opened, it is easy to win a game ball at the second start port 106, and when the ordinary electric accessory 107 is closed, it is difficult to win a game ball at the second start port 106. The ordinary electric accessory 107 is normally closed, and is opened for a predetermined period (for example, 1 second) based on the normal symbol determination result. The normal symbol determination is performed when the game ball passes through the gate 108 provided on the right side of the image display unit 104.

  In the game board 101, a large winning opening (so-called “attacker”) 109 a that can be opened and closed is provided to the right of the first start opening 105. Similarly to the second starting port 106, the big winning port 109a is also provided in an area where a game ball hit by a right strike falls. When the grand prize opening 109a is opened, a game ball can be won in the big prize opening 109a, and when the big prize opening 109a is closed, a game ball cannot be won in the big prize opening 109a (or difficult to win). Become. The special winning opening 109a is normally closed and is opened for a predetermined period based on the jackpot determination result. The big hit determination is performed by winning a game ball at the first start port 105 or the second start port 106. The gaming machine 100 pays out a predetermined number (for example, 15 balls) of prize balls every time a game ball wins a prize winning hole 109a.

  In the game board 101, an openable / closable V area 109b is provided below the special winning opening 109a. The V area 109b is also provided in an area where a game ball hit by a right strike falls in the same manner as the second start opening 106 and the big winning opening 109a. When the V region 109b is opened, the game ball can pass through the V region 109b (can enter the V region 109b), and when the V region 109b is closed, the game ball cannot pass through the V region 109b ( V cannot enter the V region 109b). The V area 109b is also normally closed like the big prize opening 109a, and is opened for a predetermined period based on the jackpot determination result.

  In the game board 101, a normal winning opening 110 is provided on the left side of the first start opening 105. The gaming machine 100 pays out a predetermined number (for example, three balls) of winning balls every time a gaming ball wins the normal winning opening 110. In the lowermost part of the game area 103, the first starting port 105, the second starting port 106, the big winning port 109a, the V region 109b, and the normal winning port 110 were not won (entered). A collection port 111 for collecting game balls is provided.

  An information display unit 112 is provided at the lower left position of the game board 101. Although details will be described later, the information display unit 112 is a special symbol display unit (see reference numerals 112a, 112b, etc. in FIG. 2) for displaying a special symbol for indicating the jackpot determination result. Normal symbol display section for displaying normal symbols (see 112c, etc. in FIG. 2), Reservation number display section for displaying the number of holds (see 112d, etc. in FIG. 2), Round number display for displaying the number of rounds (See reference numeral 112e in FIG. 2) and the like.

  In FIG. 1, a frame member 113 is provided so as to surround the outer periphery of the game area 103. The frame member 113 has a shape that surrounds the periphery of the game area 103 on the four sides on the top, bottom, left, and right of the game board 101 and protrudes toward the player. The frame member 113 incorporates a speaker 114 that can output effect sounds (such as BGM and sound effects) of various effects, an effect light unit 115 that can be lit in a predetermined lighting mode, and the like.

  An operation handle 116 is provided at the lower right position of the frame member 113. The operation handle 116 is provided so as to protrude to the player side, and is used for a game ball launching operation. Specifically, the operation handle 116 includes a firing instruction member 117. The firing instruction member 117 is provided on the outer periphery of the operation handle 116 so as to be rotated clockwise as viewed from the player.

  The launcher launches a game ball with a launch intensity corresponding to the rotation angle of the launch instruction member 117 relative to the operation handle 116. In addition, the operation handle 116 is provided with a sensor that detects that the player directly operates the firing instruction member 117. The launching unit launches a game ball when it is detected by this sensor that the firing instruction member 117 is directly operated by the player.

  In FIG. 1, an effect button 118 and a cross key 119 are provided on the lower part of the frame member 113, and an operation lever 120 is provided on the upper part of the frame member 113. The effect button 118, the cross key 119, and the operation lever 120 function as operation means that can be operated by the player. In FIG. 1, a hitting ball supply tray (not shown) is provided on the lower portion of the frame member 113, and a game ball is accommodated in the hitting ball supply tray. Further, the hitting ball supply tray has a shape inclined toward the launching unit, and sequentially sends out the stored game balls to the launching unit.

  In addition, a movable accessory 130 is provided at a predetermined position of the game board 101. The movable accessory 130 is an accessory (a so-called “item”) that is driven in a predetermined effect (for example, a gimmick effect described later). For example, the movable accessory 130 is usually positioned above the image display unit 104 as shown in FIG. 1, but is driven to advance to the front surface of the image display unit 104 during a predetermined effect. The movable accessory 130 may be provided on the frame member 113.

  Note that the arrangement positions of the first start opening 105, the second start opening 106, the big winning opening 109a, the V region 109b, the normal winning opening 110, etc. are not limited to the example shown in FIG. For example, the second start opening 106 and the big prize opening 109 a may be provided below the image display unit 104 as with the first start opening 105. These arrangement positions may be arbitrarily determined by the manufacturer of the gaming machine 100 in consideration of the game characteristics of the gaming machine 100 and the like. In the example shown in FIG. 1, one image display unit 104 is provided. However, the first image display unit (for example, a so-called “main display”) and the second image display unit (for example, a so-called “sub-display”). It is good also as a structure which provides two image display parts.

(Outline of game progress in gaming machine of this embodiment)
Next, an outline of game progress in the gaming machine 100 will be described. The gaming machine 100 makes a jackpot determination when a game ball wins at the first start port 105 or the second start port 106. In the present embodiment, the jackpot determination results are 16 round probability variation jackpot (hereinafter referred to as “16R probability variation jackpot”), eight round probability variation jackpot (hereinafter referred to as “8R probability variation jackpot”), eight round ordinary jackpot (hereinafter referred to as “8R ordinary variation jackpot”). It is assumed that a jackpot determination is made to be either lost or lost.

  When the gaming machine 100 makes a jackpot determination, the special symbol display unit of the information display unit 112 starts to change the special symbol. In addition, the gaming machine 100 causes the image display unit 104 to start changing the effect symbol in synchronization with the start of changing the special symbol. In the present embodiment, it is assumed that three (three columns) effect symbols each representing one of the numbers “1 to 9” are displayed on the image display unit 104. When these effect symbols are changed, for example, the numbers are scrolled from the top to the bottom of the display screen of the image display unit 104 so that the numbers scroll in order from the smallest number.

  When the special symbol is changed for a predetermined period, the gaming machine 100 stops the game so as to show the jackpot determination result. For example, if the jackpot determination result is a 16R probability variation jackpot, it is stopped at the 16R probability variation jackpot provided corresponding to the 16R probability variation jackpot, and if it is an 8R probability variation jackpot, it corresponds to the 8R probability variation jackpot. Stop at the provided 8R probability variation jackpot symbol. Also, if the jackpot determination result is an 8R normal jackpot, it is stopped at the 8R normal jackpot symbol provided corresponding to the 8R normal jackpot, and if it is a loss, the loss provided corresponding to the loss Stop at the symbol.

  In addition, the gaming machine 100 also stops the change of the effect symbol in the image display unit 104 in synchronization with the change stop of the special symbol. For example, when the jackpot determination result is any jackpot, the effect symbol is stopped with the jackpot combination. The jackpot combination may be a characteristic combination such as a so-called “Zolo (for example,“ 1, 1, 1 ”)”. When the jackpot determination result is a loss, the effect symbol is stopped by a combination of the losses. Loss combinations are different from jackpot combinations, for example, so-called “reach loser eyes (for example,“ 1, 2, 1 ”)” or “separate eyes (for example,“ 1, 2, 3 ”)”. Can do.

  Moreover, when the jackpot determination result is a specific jackpot, the effect symbol may be stopped by a specific jackpot combination. In this case, when the jackpot determination result is a jackpot other than the specific jackpot, the effect symbol is stopped with a jackpot combination other than the specific jackpot combination (hereinafter referred to as “non-specific jackpot combination”). Specifically, for example, if the jackpot determination result is a 16R probability variation jackpot, the production symbol is stopped with a specific jackpot combination (for example, “7” doublet), and the other jackpot May be stopped with a non-specific jackpot combination (for example, a doublet other than “7”). Further, in this case, even if the jackpot determination result is a specific jackpot, it is possible to stop the effect symbols with a non-specific combination with a predetermined probability, and then perform a so-called “promotion effect”.

  When the jackpot determination result is a jackpot, the gaming machine 100 plays a jackpot game after the change of the special symbol or effect symbol is stopped. For example, when the jackpot determination result is a 16R probability variation jackpot, a 16R probability variation jackpot game is performed. The 16R probability variation jackpot game is a 16-round jackpot game. For example, in each round from the first round to the 16th round, the grand prize opening 109a is 29.5 seconds (or until 10 balls are won in the big prize opening 109a). Furthermore, the V region 109b is opened for a long period (for example, 5 seconds) in a predetermined round (for example, the 14th round).

  Further, when the jackpot determination result is 8R probability variation jackpot, an 8R probability variation jackpot game is performed. The 8R probable jackpot game is an 8-round jackpot game. For example, in each round from the first round to the eighth round, the grand prize winning hole 109a is 29.5 seconds (or until 10 balls are won in the big winning hole 109a). Further, the V region 109b is opened for a long period (for example, 5 seconds) in a predetermined round (for example, the sixth round).

  If the jackpot determination result is an 8R normal jackpot, an 8R normal jackpot game is performed. The 8R regular jackpot game is an eight-round jackpot game. For example, in each round from the first round to the eighth round, the grand prize opening 109a is 29.5 seconds (or until 10 balls are won in the big prize opening 109a). Further, the V region 109b is opened for a short period (for example, 0.5 seconds) in a predetermined round (for example, the sixth round).

  Although details will be described later, in the present embodiment, after the 8R probability variable jackpot game, it is easy to be in a probability variable game state advantageous to the player, and after the 8R normal jackpot game, it is difficult to enter a probability variable game state. For this reason, whether it is an 8R probability variable jackpot game or an 8R normal jackpot game is of great concern to the player, but the 8R probability variable jackpot game and the 8R normal jackpot game differ only in the opening mode of the V region 109b. . For this reason, it is difficult for the player to determine whether the 8R probability variation jackpot game is being played or whether the 8R normal jackpot game is being played until the V region 109b is released. As a result, when an 8R probability variable jackpot game and an 8R regular jackpot game are played, until the V area 109b is released, a sense of expectation such as “may be an 8R probability variable jackpot game” and a sense of crisis such as “may be an 8R regular jackpot game” (So-called “pounding feeling”) can be given to the player, and the player can be entertained.

  The gaming machine 100 controls the progress of the game in a specific gaming state advantageous to the player after the big hit game. For example, when a game ball passes through the V area 109b during the jackpot game, the progress of the game is controlled in the probability variation game state after the jackpot game. Here, the probability variation gaming state is a high probability gaming state (a gaming state in which a so-called “probability variation function” is activated) and an auxiliary gaming state (a gaming state in which a so-called “electric chew support function” is activated).

  That is, when the gaming machine 100 is in the probability variation gaming state, the probability of determining a big hit in the jackpot determination (hereinafter referred to as “big hit probability”) compared to the normal gaming state (low probability gaming state and non-auxiliary gaming state). ) And at the same time, it is easy for the game ball to win the second starting port 106. Note that the gaming machine 100 ends the probability variation gaming state when the symbol variation (change and stop) of the special symbol is performed a predetermined number of times (185 times in the present embodiment) after entering the probability variation gaming state, and enters the normal gaming state. Return. The progress of the game is controlled in the normal game state until the next jackpot game is performed.

  Further, for example, when the game ball does not pass through the V area 109b during the jackpot game, the progress of the game is controlled in the short-time game state after the jackpot game. Here, the short-time gaming state is a low-probability gaming state and an auxiliary gaming state. That is, when the gaming machine 100 is in the short-time gaming state, it does not increase the jackpot probability as compared to the normal gaming state, but makes it easier for the game ball to win the second starting port 106. Note that the gaming machine 100 ends the short-time gaming state and returns to the normal gaming state when the special symbol is changed a predetermined number of times (100 times in the present embodiment) after entering the short-time gaming state. The progress of the game is controlled in the normal game state until the next jackpot game is performed.

  As described above, in the 16R probability variation jackpot game and the 8R probability variation jackpot game, the V region 109b is opened for a long period of time, so that the game ball easily passes through the V region 109b during these jackpot games. Therefore, after the 16R probability variation jackpot game and after the 8R probability variation jackpot game, the progress of the game is easily controlled in the probability variation gaming state. On the other hand, in the 8R normal jackpot game, the V area 109b is not released for a long period of time, so that it is difficult for the game ball to pass through the V area 109b during the 8R normal jackpot game. Therefore, after the 8R normal big hit game, the progress of the game is easily controlled in the short-time game state (it is difficult to control in the probability variation game state).

  In the example described here, the jackpot determination result is either 16R probability variation jackpot, 8R probability variation jackpot, 8R normal jackpot, or lose, and the 16-round jackpot game or 8-round jackpot game is determined. This is done, but is not limited to this. What jackpot is provided may be arbitrarily determined by the manufacturer in consideration of the game characteristics of the gaming machine 100 (for example, so-called “base”). In addition, the so-called “surprise jackpot”, “latent jackpot”, “crash jackpot”, “rush jackpot”, etc., the number of winning balls that a player can obtain is smaller than other jackpots such as a probable jackpot May be provided.

  Also, in the example described here, depending on whether or not the game ball has passed through the V area 109b during the jackpot game, the probability change game state or the short-time game state is set after this jackpot game. It is not a thing. For example, the probability change game state may always be set after the 16R probability change jackpot game and the 8R probability change jackpot game, and the time-short game state may always be set after the 8R normal jackpot game. In this case, the V region 109b may not be provided.

  Further, in the example described here, the gaming machine 100 is a so-called “ST (special time) machine”, but is not limited thereto. For example, the gaming machine 100 may be a so-called “loop machine (sometimes referred to as a“ loop-type probability changing machine ”). In the case of a loop machine, when the gaming machine 100 is in the probability-changing gaming state, the gaming machine 100 continues this probability-changing gaming state until the next jackpot game is substantially performed.

(Internal configuration of gaming machine of this embodiment)
Next, the internal configuration of the gaming machine 100 will be described. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of the gaming machine according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 2, the control unit 200 of the gaming machine 100 includes a main control unit 201, an effect control unit 202, and a prize ball control unit 203.

(1. Main control unit)
First, the main control unit 201 will be described. The main control unit 201 controls the progress of the game in the gaming machine 100. Specifically, for example, the main control unit 201 makes a jackpot determination based on the winning of the game ball at the first start port 105 or the second start port 106 or specially based on the jackpot determination. Fluctuate and stop the design. Further, the main control unit 201 controls the opening of the big winning opening 109a and the V area 109b based on the big hit determination in the big hit determination, and performs a big hit game or controls the game state.

  The main control unit 201 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 211, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 212, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 213, an input / output interface (I / O) (not shown), and the like.

  The CPU 211 controls the entire main control unit 201. The ROM 212 stores a program, data, and the like for controlling the progress of the game in the gaming machine 100. The RAM 213 is used as a work area for the CPU 211. The main control unit 201 receives signals from various switches (hereinafter abbreviated as “SW”).

  For example, a signal is input to the main control unit 201 from the first start port SW221 and the second start port SW222. The first start port SW 221 is a SW that detects a game ball that has won the first start port 105, and inputs a detection signal to the main control unit 201 when a win to the first start port 105 is detected. The second start port SW222 is a SW that detects a game ball that has won the second start port 106, and inputs a detection signal to the main control unit 201 when a win to the second start port 106 is detected. Accordingly, the main control unit 201 can detect winning in the first start port 105 and the second start port 106.

  Further, signals are input to the main control unit 201 from the gate SW 223, the big winning opening SW 224a, the V region SW 224b, and the normal winning opening SW 225. The gate SW 223 is a SW that detects a game ball that has passed through the gate 108, and when a passage through the gate 108 is detected, a detection signal is input to the main control unit 201. The special winning opening SW 224a is a SW that detects a game ball won in the special winning opening 109a, and inputs a detection signal to the main control unit 201 when detecting a winning in the special winning opening 109a. The V region SW 224b is a SW that detects a game ball that has passed through the V region 109b. When the V region SW 224b detects passage of the V region 109b, a detection signal is input to the main control unit 201. The normal winning opening SW 225 is a SW that detects a game ball won in the normal winning opening 110, and inputs a detection signal to the main control unit 201 when detecting a winning in the normal winning opening 110. For example, proximity switches can be used for these SWs.

  Further, the main control unit 201 is configured to be able to input control signals to various solenoids such as the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 231, the big prize opening solenoid 232 a, and the V region solenoid 232 b. The ordinary electric accessory solenoid 231 is a solenoid that opens and closes the ordinary electric accessory 107 based on a control signal from the main control unit 201. The special prize opening solenoid 232a is a solenoid that opens and closes the special prize opening 109a based on a control signal from the main control unit 201. The V region solenoid 232b is a solenoid that opens and closes the V region 109b based on a control signal from the main control unit 201.

  Further, the main control unit 201 is configured to be able to input a control signal to the information display unit 112. The information display unit 112 performs display control of various display units included in the information display unit 112 based on a control signal input from the main control unit 201. Here, the information display unit 112 includes a first special symbol display unit 112a, a second special symbol display unit 112b, a normal symbol display unit 112c, a reserved number display unit 112d, a round number display unit 112e, and the like. .

  The 1st special symbol display part 112a displays the 1st special symbol for showing the jackpot determination result performed when the game ball won the 1st starting port 105. FIG. The second special symbol display unit 112b displays a second special symbol for indicating a jackpot determination result made by winning the game ball at the second starting port 106. The normal symbol display unit 112c displays a normal symbol for indicating a normal symbol determination result performed by the game ball passing through the gate 108.

  The hold number display section 112d displays a so-called “hold number”. For example, when the game ball wins the first starting port 105 or the second starting port 106, the main control unit 201 uses a predetermined random number (for example, a winning random number, a design random number, and a variation pattern random number, which will be described later) used for jackpot determination or the like. The determination information representing the random number is acquired and stored in a predetermined storage area of the RAM 213. The main control unit 201 can store (so-called “hold”) up to four pieces of determination information for each starting port. In addition, when the game ball passes through the gate 108, the main control unit 201 acquires a predetermined random number used for normal symbol determination or the like, and stores normal symbol determination information representing the random number in a predetermined storage area of the RAM 213. The main control unit 201 can store up to four pieces of normal determination information.

  The number-of-holds display unit 112d is acquired by winning the winning number at the second starting port 106, the number of determination information acquired and stored by winning the first starting port 105 (hereinafter referred to as "first holding number"). The number of pieces of determination information stored (hereinafter referred to as “second holding number”) and the number of pieces of normal symbol determination information acquired and stored by passing through the gate 108 (hereinafter referred to as “normal symbol holding number”) Each is displayed independently.

  The number-of-rounds display unit 112e displays the number of rounds of the jackpot game when the jackpot game is being played. As described above, in this embodiment, a 16-round jackpot game (16R probability variable jackpot game) and an 8-round jackpot game (8R probability variable jackpot game, 8R normal jackpot game) are provided. For this reason, the round number display unit 112e includes, for example, a lamp indicating “16” and a lamp indicating “8”. The round number display unit 112e lights a lamp indicating “16” when a 16-round jackpot game is being played, and indicates “8” when an 8-round jackpot game is being played. Turn on the lamp.

  Further, the information display unit 112 may include a right-handed notification display unit. In this case, the right-handed notification display unit is turned on at a predetermined time to notify the player to make a right-hand hit. For example, in the case of the gaming machine 100, the second start opening 106 and the big winning opening 109a are provided in an area where a game ball launched by right-handed falls. For this reason, the right-handed notification display portion is lit when the probability changing game state or the short-time game state in which the second start opening 106 is easy to win, and when the big winning game that can win the big winning opening 109a is being played. Inform the player to make a right strike.

  The main control unit 201 is configured to be able to output various types of information to the effect control unit 202 and the prize ball control unit 203 (for example, a jackpot determination result). Further, the main control unit 201 can output various types of information to the outside via the board external information terminal board 297. Note that the main control unit 201 can realize its function by, for example, a main control board.

(2. Production control unit)
Next, the production control unit 202 will be described. The effect control unit 202 controls the effect on the gaming machine 100. The effect control unit 202 includes an effect control unit 202 a that controls the entire effect control unit 202, an image / audio control unit 202 b that performs display control of the image display unit 104, sound output control of the speaker 114, and the effect light unit 115. A lamp control unit 202c that performs lighting control, drive control of the movable accessory 130, and the like.

(2-1. Director of Production)
First, the production control unit 202a will be described. The production control unit 202a includes a CPU 241, a ROM 242, a RAM 243, an RTC (Real-Time Clock) 244, an input / output interface (I / O) (not shown), and the like.

  The CPU 241 manages the overall control of the production control unit 202a. The ROM 242 stores programs and data (for example, later-described effect patterns Ep1 to Ep21) for controlling the effects in the gaming machine 100 by supervising the effect control unit 202. The RAM 243 is used as a work area for the CPU 241. The RTC 244 counts and outputs real time. The RTC 244 is supplied with power for a certain period (for example, one day) even when the power of the gaming machine 100 is shut off by a backup power supply (not shown). For this reason, the RTC 244 can continue the timing operation for a certain period even when the power of the gaming machine 100 is shut off.

  FIG. 2 shows an example in which the RTC 244 is provided in the production supervision unit 202a, but the present invention is not limited to this. The RTC 244 may be provided in the main control unit 201, the image / sound control unit 202b, or the like. Alternatively, the RTC 244 may be arranged alone and output information indicating the measured real time to the production control unit 202a or the like.

  In addition, a predetermined control signal is input from the effect button 118, the cross key 119, and the operation lever 120 to the effect control unit 202a. The effect button 118, the cross key 119, and the operation lever 120 input a predetermined control signal according to the player's operation to the effect control unit 202a. As a result, the production control unit 202a can accept operations on the production button 118, the cross key 119, and the operation lever 120. Here, control signals from the effect button 118, the cross key 119, and the operation lever 120 are input to the effect control unit 202a, but are input to the image / sound control unit 202b and the lamp control unit 202c. You may comprise as follows.

  In addition, the production control unit 202a can communicate various information with the image / sound control unit 202b and the lamp control unit 202c. The production supervision unit 202a can realize the function by, for example, the production control board.

(2-2. Image / Audio Control Unit)
Next, the image / sound control unit 202b will be described. The image / audio control unit 202b includes a CPU 251, a ROM 252, a RAM 253, a VRAM 254, an input / output interface (I / O) (not shown), and the like.

  The CPU 251 controls the entire image / sound controller 202b. The ROM 252 stores programs and data for performing display control of the image display unit 104 and output control from the speaker 114 based on an instruction from the production control unit 202a. For example, the ROM 252 stores image data for causing the image display unit 104 to display effect symbols and background images. Further, for example, the ROM 252 stores effect data for displaying a predetermined effect image on the image display unit 104 or outputting a predetermined effect sound from the speaker 114 in various effects such as reach effects. Yes. The RAM 253 is used as a work area for the CPU 251.

  For example, the CPU 251 reads out effect data corresponding to the effect instructed to be executed from the effect control unit 202a from the ROM 252, and performs display control of the image display unit 104 and output control from the speaker 114 based on this effect data. . Note that the CPU 251 may use a known hidden surface removal method such as a Z buffer method for display control of the image display unit 104. As a result, the image / sound control unit 202b can display, for example, the effect design in front of the background image on the display screen of the image display unit 104.

(2-3. Lamp control unit)
Next, the lamp control unit 202c will be described. The lamp control unit 202c includes a CPU 261, a ROM 262, a RAM 263, an input / output interface (I / O) (not shown), and the like. The CPU 261 controls the entire lamp control unit 202c. The ROM 262 stores programs, data, and the like for performing lighting control of the effect light unit 115 and the panel lamp 264 and driving control of the movable accessory 130. The RAM 263 is used as a work area for the CPU 261.

  For example, the ROM 262 has drive data for causing the movable accessory 130 to perform a predetermined operation (advance to the front of the image display unit 104 in the present embodiment) at a predetermined effect (gimmic effect in the present embodiment). It is remembered. For example, when the CPU 261 is instructed to execute a predetermined effect from the effect supervision unit 202a, the CPU 261 reads out the drive data from the ROM 262 and sends a control signal based on the drive data to a drive motor (not shown) of the movable accessory 130. The input is made to cause the movable accessory 130 to perform a predetermined operation.

  In addition, a detection signal is input to the lamp control unit 202c from a movable accessory position sensor (not shown) that detects the position of the movable accessory 130, and the lamp control unit 202c receives the movable combination based on the detection signal. The driving of the object 130 may be controlled.

  In the present embodiment, the production control unit 202 is provided with a production control unit 202a, an image / sound control unit 202b, and a lamp control unit 202c as different boards, but these are configured on the same printed board. May be. However, each function is independent even when they are incorporated on the same printed circuit board.

(3. Prize ball control unit)
Next, the winning ball control unit 203 will be described. The prize ball control unit 203 controls the payout of prize balls in the gaming machine 100 and the like. The winning ball control unit 203 includes a CPU 281, a ROM 282, a RAM 283, an input / output interface (not shown), and the like. The CPU 281 governs overall control of the prize ball control unit 203. The ROM 282 stores programs, data, and the like related to payout of prize balls in the gaming machine 100. The RAM 283 is used as a work area for the CPU 281.

  The prize ball control unit 203 is configured to be able to input a control signal to the payout unit (payout drive motor) 291 and the launch unit 292. For example, the prize ball control unit 203 controls the payout unit 291 based on a payout instruction from the main control unit 201 to pay out a prize ball, or controls the launching unit 292 when an operation for launching a game ball is detected. Then, a game ball is fired toward the game area 103.

  The prize ball control unit 203 receives signals from various SWs. For example, the prize ball control unit 203 receives signals from the fixed position detection SW 293 and the payout ball detection SW 294. The fixed position detection SW 293 is a SW that detects a game ball located at a predetermined position. When a game ball located at a predetermined position is detected, a detection signal is input to the prize ball control unit 203. The payout ball detection SW 294 is a SW that detects a paid-out game ball, and inputs a detection signal to the prize ball control unit 203 every time a paid-out game ball is detected.

  Further, for example, the prize ball control unit 203 receives signals from a ball presence detection SW 295 and a full tank detection SW 296. The ball presence detection SW 295 is a SW that detects the presence or absence of a game ball in a hit ball supply tray provided on the front surface of the frame. When a game ball in the hit ball supply tray is detected, a detection signal is input to the winning ball control unit 203. . The full tank detection SW 296 is a SW for detecting that the hitting ball supply tray is filled with game balls. When it is detected that the hit ball supply tray is filled with game balls, a detection signal is input to the prize ball control unit 203. To do. For example, proximity switches can be used for these SWs.

  In addition, various information (for example, a payout instruction) is input from the main control unit 201 to the prize ball control unit 203. The winning ball control unit 203 pays out a winning ball or stops paying out a winning ball based on the information input from the main control unit 201 and the detection signals input from the various SW 293 to 296. The winning ball control unit 203 may output detection signals input from the various SWs 293 to 296 to the main control unit 201.

  The prize ball control unit 203 can also output various types of information to the outside via the frame external information terminal board 298. The prize ball control unit 203 can realize its function by a prize ball control board, for example.

(Functional configuration of gaming machine of this embodiment)
Next, a functional configuration of the gaming machine 100 will be described. FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of the gaming machine according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 3, the gaming machine 100 includes a determination unit 310, an effect execution control unit 320, an effect device 330, and an operation unit 340.

  The determination unit 310 has a function of determining whether or not to play a special game. Here, the special game is a game that is played for a limited predetermined period of time, and is a game that is more advantageous to the player than a normal game that is performed outside this predetermined period. In this embodiment, the special game is described as a jackpot game. That is, in this case, the determination unit 310 performs a jackpot determination. A specific example of the jackpot determination will be described later with reference to FIG.

  Further, the determination unit 310 may perform a so-called “preliminary determination (sometimes referred to as“ prefetching ”). Although detailed description is omitted because it is a known technique, in this case, the determination unit 310 determines whether or not a big hit is made by prior determination before performing the big hit determination. When the determination unit 310 determines, the determination result is output to the effect execution control unit 320.

  The effect execution control unit 320 has a function of performing a predetermined effect based on the determination result received from the determination unit 310. The effect execution control unit 320 performs a predetermined effect by controlling the effect device 330 to perform a predetermined operation. The rendering device 330 includes, for example, the image display unit 104, the speaker 114, and the like. In this case, the production execution control unit 320 displays a predetermined image on the image display unit 104 or outputs predetermined music (for example, so-called “BGM”), sound, and sound effects from the speaker 114, Perform a predetermined performance. The effect device 330 may include a movable accessory 130, an effect light unit 115, and the like. In this case, the effect execution control unit 320 performs a predetermined effect by driving the movable accessory 130 in a predetermined drive mode or lighting the effect light unit 115 in a predetermined lighting mode.

  In addition, the production execution control unit 320 receives a control signal indicating the player's operation performed on the operation unit 340 from the operation unit 340 that can be operated by the player, and this control signal (that is, the operation unit 340 receives the control signal). On the basis of the player's operation performed on the player), a predetermined effect may be performed. The operation unit 340 includes, for example, an effect button 118. In this case, when the player performs an operation on the effect button 118 (for example, when the effect button 118 is pressed a predetermined number of times), the effect execution control unit 320 performs a predetermined effect. The operation unit 340 may include the operation lever 120 and the like. In this case, when the player performs an operation on the operation lever 120 (for example, when the operation lever 120 is pulled), the effect execution control unit 320 performs a predetermined effect.

  In the present embodiment, a reach effect, a winning effect, a guidance effect, and a gimmick effect are prepared in advance by the manufacturer of the gaming machine 100 as effects that can be executed by the effect execution control unit 320 (that is, the gaming machine 100). ing. In addition, the execution conditions for each effect are also predetermined by the manufacturer of the gaming machine 100. The outline of these effects will be described below.

(Outline of effects performed by the gaming machine of the present embodiment)
FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram (part 1) showing an outline of effects performed by the gaming machine of the present embodiment. When the gaming machine 100 makes a jackpot determination, it shows the jackpot determination result, so that the special symbol or the design symbol changes (see “change start”, “change stop” in FIG. 4). During this symbol change, a reach effect, a winning effect, a gimmick effect, and a guidance effect may be performed.

(Reach production)
Here, the reach effect is an effect that is started at a predetermined timing during symbol variation, and that the effect symbol is in a predetermined reach mode on the display screen of the image display unit 104. The reach mode may be a mode in which, for example, two effect symbols out of three effect symbols are temporarily stopped so as to represent the same number, and the remaining one effect symbol is changed. The temporarily stopped effect design is displayed, for example, so as to slightly swing up and down or left and right at a predetermined position on the display screen (for example, on a so-called “effective line”).

  In addition, the reach effect may be an effect in which the effect design is set to reach and a predetermined reach effect image (for example, a moving image called “movie”) is displayed on the image display unit 104. . In this case, for example, when the effect design is in the reach mode, a reach effect image representing one scene of the story as a motif in the gaming machine 100 is displayed. In this way, the effect of the reach effect can be enhanced, and the player can be more entertained by the reach effect.

  Further, a plurality of types of reach effects may be provided, and such reach effect images may or may not be displayed depending on the type of reach effects. In the present embodiment, so-called “normal reach” and so-called “super reach” are provided. Here, super reach is considered to be a reach production with a higher expectation level of jackpot than normal reach.

  In the case of normal reach, for example, such a reach effect image is not displayed (that is, the effect symbol is simply set in the reach mode), and in the case of super reach, such a reach effect image is displayed. To be. As a result, the super reach can be made a more spectacular reach than the normal reach, and the display of such a reach effect image suggests to the player that it is a super reach and greatly enhances the player's expectation. be able to.

  Note that when performing the super reach, the gaming machine 100 develops the super reach after performing the normal reach, for example, as shown in FIG. As a result, during normal reach, the player can have a sense of expectation that “it may develop into super reach”.

  In the reach effect, a predetermined reach effect sound (for example, a BGM for reach effect, a voice such as “reach” or “opportunity”, a predetermined sound effect, etc.) may be output from the speaker 114. In this way, the effect of the reach effect can be enhanced, and the player can be more entertained by the reach effect.

(Winning production and gimmick production)
Here, for example, when the super reach is performed, the winning effect is performed at a predetermined timing in the second half of the super reach (for example, immediately before the end of the super reach), and the game is performed to operate the operation unit 340 with the predetermined operation content. It is an effect that encourages the person. As described above, Super Reach is an effect with a high degree of expectation for jackpots, so the winning effect that is performed when Super Reach is performed is also an effect with a high degree of expectation for jackpots.

  In the present embodiment, the winning effect is an effect that prompts the player to hit the effect button 118 repeatedly. For this reason, in the winning effect, for example, an effect image for winning effect that prompts the player to hit the effect button 118 repeatedly (hereinafter referred to as “winning effect image”. FIG. 12-2 (t7) and FIG. 12-2 (t8). ) Or the like is displayed on the image display unit 104, or a sound that prompts the player to hit the effect button 118 repeatedly (hereinafter referred to as “winning effect sound”) is output from the speaker 114.

  The winning effect is terminated when, for example, the effect button 118 is repeatedly hit (for example, operated five times) after the winning effect is started, or when a predetermined period (for example, 5 seconds) elapses from the start of the winning effect. That is, the player can end the winning effect before the predetermined period has elapsed by actively striking the effect button 118 repeatedly. Then, after the winning effect (immediately before the end of the super reach), a gimmick effect is performed according to the jackpot determination result. Here, the gimmick effect is an effect in which the movable accessory 130 is advanced to the front surface of the image display unit 104, for example.

  For example, the gaming machine 100 performs a gimmick effect after the winning effect if the jackpot determination result is a big hit, and does not perform the gimmick effect after the winning effect if it is a loss. In this case, the gimmick effect is a so-called “hit-decision effect”, and a great joy can be given to the player when the gimmick effect is performed. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the gimmick effect may be performed with a low probability (within a range where the expected degree of jackpot of the gimmick effect is sufficiently high) even when the jackpot determination result is a loss. Even in this way, a great joy can be given to the player when performing the gimmick production.

  Although details will be described later, in the present embodiment, a first winning effect and a second winning effect are prepared as the winning effects. The first winning effect and the second winning effect are different in the effect mode (for example, the displayed winning effect image and the output winning effect sound), so that whether the player is the first winning effect or the second winning effect. It is possible to identify the production. When the jackpot determination result is a jackpot, the first winning effect is less likely to be performed and the second winning effect is easier to perform than when the jackpot is lost. That is, when the jackpot determination result is a jackpot, it is easier to generate a pattern effect in which the second winning effect is performed and then the gimmick effect is performed, compared to the case where the jackpot is lost.

  For this reason, when the gaming machine 100 performs the second winning effect, the gaming machine 100 is more likely to perform the gimmick effect after that than when the first winning effect is performed (that is, it may be a big hit). Is high) ”, and the player's willingness to operate in the second winning effect can be increased, and the player can be positively struck with the effect button 118 to entertain the game.

(Guidance production)
Here, for example, when the winning effect is performed (that is, when super reach is performed), the winning effect is started from a predetermined timing (for example, 3 seconds before the starting of the winning effect) before starting the winning effect. It is an effect that guides the player about the operation content that is performed by the player in the winning effect. In the present embodiment, the operation content urged by the player in the winning effect is a repeated hit of the effect button 118, and therefore, the operation content guided by the guide effect is also the repeated hit of the effect button 118.

  Specifically, for example, in the guidance effect, a sound that prompts the player to hit the effect button 118 repeatedly (hereinafter referred to as “guidance effect sound”) is output from the speaker 114. Further, in the guidance effect, for example, an effect image for guidance effect that prompts the player to hit the effect button 118 repeatedly (hereinafter referred to as “guidance effect image”. FIG. 12-2 (t5) and FIG. 12-2 (t6)). May be displayed on the image display unit 104. Further, in the guidance effect, the remaining time until the start of the winning effect may be displayed.

  By performing such a guidance effect, it is possible to guide the player to perform the operation to be performed in the winning effect before the winning effect, and the player can prepare for performing this operation. It will be possible to further promote the player's operation in the winning effect.

  Although details will be described later, in the present embodiment, a first guidance effect and a second guidance effect are prepared as guidance effects. The first guidance effect and the second guidance effect are different in the effect mode (for example, the guidance effect sound to be output), so that the player can identify whether it is the first guidance effect or the second guidance effect. is there. When the jackpot determination result is a jackpot, the first guidance effect is less likely to be performed and the second guidance effect is easier to perform than when the jackpot is lost. That is, when the jackpot determination result is a jackpot, the pattern effect is such that the second winning effect is performed after the second guidance effect is performed, and then the gimmick effect is performed, as compared with the case where the jackpot is lost. Is likely to occur.

  For this reason, when the gaming machine 100 performs the second guidance effect, the gaming machine 100 can perform “the second winning effect and then further the gimmick effect than when the first guidance effect is performed”. It is possible to make the player think that “there is a high probability (ie, a high probability of winning a big hit)”. When the second winning effect is performed after the second guidance effect, the player can positively hit the effect button 118 repeatedly to entertain the game.

  Note that the determination unit 310 can realize its function by, for example, the CPU 211 of the main control unit 201 executing a program stored in the ROM 212. In addition, for example, the production execution control unit 320 executes the program stored in the ROM 242 by the CPU 241 of the production control unit 202a or the program stored in the ROM 252 by the CPU 251 of the image / sound control unit 202b. The function can be realized.

(An example of processing performed by the main control unit of the present embodiment)
Next, processing performed by the gaming machine 100 will be described. First, an example of processing performed by the main control unit 201 will be described. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing an example of processing performed by the main control unit of the present embodiment. For example, while the gaming machine 100 is activated, the main control unit 201 repeatedly executes the process shown in FIG. 5 at a predetermined cycle (for example, every 4 ms).

  In the process shown in FIG. 5, the main control unit 201 determines whether or not a determination information acquisition condition is satisfied (step S <b> 501). In the present embodiment, there is a winning at the first starting port 105 and the first holding number is less than “4”, there is a winning at the second starting port 106 and the second holding number is “4”. The two conditions of being less than are the acquisition conditions for the determination information. Therefore, the main control unit 201 makes an affirmative determination in step S501 if at least one of the two conditions is satisfied, and a negative determination in step S501 if neither of the two conditions is satisfied. If a negative determination is made in step S501 (step S501: No), the process proceeds to step S504.

  If an affirmative determination is made in step S501 (step S501: Yes), determination information is acquired (step S502). In this embodiment, determination information representing a winning random number, a design random number, and a variation pattern random number is acquired. Here, the winning random number is any integer in the range of “0 to 399”, the design random number is any integer in the range of “0 to 99”, and the variation pattern random number is “0 to 99”. Any integer in the range of. Note that the values that these random numbers can take are not limited to this, and the manufacturer of the gaming machine 100 may arbitrarily determine the gaming machine 100 in consideration of the game characteristics.

  Note that when the main control unit 201 acquires the determination information, for example, the main control unit 201 stores the determination information in the RAM 213 until the determination information is used for the jackpot determination. In the present embodiment, the determination information acquired by winning the second start port 106 is digested earlier than the determination information acquired by winning the first start port 105 (first hit is a big hit). A high digestion priority is set (so-called “special 2 priority digest”). Moreover, a higher digestion priority is set in the determination information acquired earlier in time series so that it is digested earlier than the determination information acquired later.

  For this reason, in the present embodiment, first, the determination information acquired by winning the second starting port 106 is used for the jackpot determination in order from the one acquired in time series. Then, after the determination information acquired by winning at the second starting port 106 disappears, the big hit determination is made in order from the determination information acquired by winning at the first starting port 105 previously acquired in time series. Will be used.

  When acquiring the determination information, the main control unit 201 performs a pre-determination process based on the determination information (step S503). This pre-determination process is a process for performing the above-described pre-determination (also referred to as “prefetching”). Although detailed description is omitted because it is a known technique, in the pre-determination process, for example, it is determined whether or not the winning random number of the determination information acquired in step S502 matches a predetermined jackpot determination value. If “preliminary determination result = big hit”, and if they do not match, “preliminary determination result = lost”. Further, in this prior determination process, for example, based on the variation pattern random number of the determination information acquired in step S502, whether it has been previously determined as big hit or lost, or the gaming state at the time of prior determination in step S502 You may determine the fluctuation pattern used for the design fluctuation based on the acquired determination information.

  When the main control unit 201 performs the pre-determination process, for example, the determination information used in the pre-determination process and the pre-determination result obtained by the pre-determination process are associated with each other and stored in the RAM 213. deep. Moreover, if the main control part 201 performs a prior determination process, it will notify this effect determination part 202a of this prior determination result. In addition, when not using a prior determination result on production, this prior determination process does not need to be performed.

  Further, the main control unit 201 determines whether or not a predetermined start condition is satisfied (step S504). In the present embodiment, the start condition is that there is determination information stored in the main control unit 201 and that neither the special symbol variation nor the big hit game is in effect. For this reason, when this condition is satisfied, the main control unit 201 makes an affirmative determination in step S504, and when this condition is not satisfied (for example, there is no stored determination information or the symbol variation of the special symbol). In the case of medium or jackpot game), a negative determination is made in step S504. If a negative determination is made in step S504 (step S504: No), the processing shown in FIG.

  When an affirmative determination is made in step S504 (step S504: Yes), a jackpot determination is performed based on the winning random number of the determination information having the highest digestion priority among the determination information stored in the main control unit 201 (step S505). ). The determination information used for the jackpot determination, that is, the determination information having the highest digestion priority among the determination information stored in the main control unit 201 is hereinafter referred to as “variation determination information”. A detailed example of the jackpot determination in the present embodiment will be described later with reference to FIG.

  Then, the main control unit 201 performs a variation pattern determination based on a variation pattern random number in the variation determination information (step S506). In this variation pattern determination, one variation pattern among a plurality of variation patterns stored in the main control unit 201 is derived as a determination result (variation pattern determination result). Here, the variation pattern defines the variation time (variation mode) of the special symbol. A detailed example of the variation pattern determination in the present embodiment will be described later with reference to FIG.

  When the main control unit 201 performs jackpot determination and variation pattern determination, the main control unit 201 performs symbol variation of the special symbol based on the jackpot determination result and the variation pattern determination result (step S507). Specifically, after changing the special symbol for a variation time corresponding to the variation pattern derived as the variation pattern determination result, the special symbol is stopped at the symbol indicating the jackpot determination result. If the variation determination information is acquired by winning the first start port 105, the symbol variation of the special symbol is performed in the first special symbol display unit 112a. If the variation determination information is acquired by winning the second start port 106, the symbol variation of this special symbol is performed in the second special symbol display unit 112b.

  The main control unit 201 uses the contents of the symbol variation, specifically, the symbol to be stopped in the symbol variation (that is, the jackpot determination result) or the symbol variation when the symbol variation of the special symbol is started. The variation pattern (that is, the variation pattern determination result) is notified to the production control unit 202a. Further, the main control unit 201 notifies the effect supervising unit 202a that the symbol variation of the special symbol is finished when the symbol variation of the special symbol is terminated (when the variation of the special symbol is stopped). As a result, the production control unit 202a can change the production symbol in synchronization with the change of the special symbol, and can stop the production symbol in synchronization with the stop of the special symbol.

  Then, the main control unit 201 determines whether or not the jackpot symbol indicating that the jackpot determination result is a jackpot is stopped as a result of performing the symbol variation by the process of step S507 (step S508). When it is determined that the jackpot symbol has not been stopped (that is, the jackpot symbol has been stopped) (step S508: No), the processing illustrated in FIG. 5 is terminated.

  When it is determined that the game is stopped with the jackpot symbol (step S508: Yes), a jackpot game corresponding to the jackpot symbol is performed (step S509). For example, when the game is stopped with a 16R probability variable jackpot symbol, a 16R probability variable jackpot game is performed, and when the game is stopped with an 8R probability variable jackpot symbol, an 8R probability variable jackpot game is performed. In addition, when the 8R normal jackpot symbol is stopped, an 8R normal jackpot game is played. Since the contents of each jackpot game have been described above, description thereof is omitted here.

  Then, when the jackpot game ends, the main control unit 201 sets the probability variation game state or the time-saving game state (step S510), and ends the process shown in FIG. Specifically, for example, after the big hit game in which the game ball has passed through the V area 109b, the probability variation gaming state is set, while after the big hit game in which the game ball has not passed through the V area 109b, the short time gaming state is set.

  The main control unit 201, for example, sets the probability variation gaming state by the process of step S510, and then returns to the normal gaming state when the symbol variation of the special symbol is performed 185 times. In addition, after the time-short gaming state is set by the process of step S510, when the symbol variation of the special symbol is performed 100 times, the normal gaming state is restored.

(An example of jackpot determination in the present embodiment)
Here, an example of jackpot determination in the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of jackpot determination in the present embodiment. The following jackpot determination value and jackpot symbol determination value used for the jackpot determination are determined in advance by the manufacturer of the gaming machine 100 and stored in the ROM 212 of the main control unit 201 or the like.

  In the jackpot determination, first, a win determination is made as to whether or not a jackpot. In this winning determination, a winning random number of the variation determination information and a jackpot determination value are used. Here, the jackpot determination value includes a jackpot determination value for a low probability gaming state and a jackpot determination value for a high probability gaming state. In the present embodiment, the jackpot determination value for the low probability gaming state is “0”, and the jackpot determination value for the high probability gaming state is “0 to 2”.

  The main control unit 201 uses the low-probability gaming state jackpot determination value for the winning determination in the low-probability gaming state. In this case, as shown in FIG. "Is determined to be a big hit, and" 1 to 399 "is determined to be lost. That is, the jackpot probability in this case is 1/400. In addition, for the winning determination in the high probability gaming state, the jackpot determination value for the high probability gaming state is used. In this case, as shown in FIG. 6A, the winning random number in the variation determination information is “0 to 2”. If there is, it is determined to be a big hit, and if it is “3 to 399”, it is determined to be lost. In other words, the jackpot probability in this case is 3/400 (≈ 1/133).

  Thus, in the present embodiment, the jackpot determination with a higher jackpot probability is performed in the high probability gaming state (probability variation gaming state) than in the low probability gaming state (normal gaming state, short-time gaming state). It has come to be.

  In the jackpot determination in which the winning determination result is a jackpot, a jackpot symbol determination is further performed. For the jackpot symbol determination, the symbol random number of the variation determination information and the jackpot symbol determination value are used. Here, the jackpot symbol determination value includes a first startup port jackpot symbol determination value and a second startup port jackpot symbol determination value. In this embodiment, the first start-up jackpot symbol determination value is set to “0 to 51” for the 8R probability variation jackpot symbol and “52 to 99” for the 8R normal jackpot symbol. It has become. Further, the second start opening jackpot symbol determination value is set to “0 to 99” for the 16R probability variation jackpot symbol.

  If the variation determination information is acquired by winning the first start port 105, the main control unit 201 uses the first start port jackpot symbol determination value for the jackpot symbol determination. In this case, FIG. ), If the symbol number of the variation determination information is “0 to 51”, it is determined as an 8R probability variation jackpot symbol, and if it is “52 to 99”, it is determined as an 8R normal jackpot symbol. That is, in this case, the probability that the 8R probability variation jackpot symbol is determined is 52/100, the probability that the 8R normal variation jackpot symbol is determined is 48/100, and the probability that the 16R probability variation jackpot symbol is determined is 0/100.

  Further, the main control unit 201 uses the second start-up jackpot symbol determination value for the jackpot symbol determination if the variation determination information is acquired by winning the second starting port 106. In this case, FIG. As shown in (B), if the symbol random number in the variation determination information is “0 to 99”, the symbol is determined to be a 16R probability variation big hit symbol. That is, in this case, the probability that the 16R probability variation jackpot symbol is determined is 100/100, the probability that the 8R probability variation jackpot symbol is determined is 0/100, and the probability that the 8R normal variation jackpot symbol is determined is 0/100.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, the jackpot determination based on the winning at the second starting port 106 is performed with contents that are more advantageous to the player than the jackpot determination based on the winning at the first starting port 105. It has become.

(Example of variation pattern determination in the present embodiment)
Next, an example of variation pattern determination in the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the variation pattern determination in the present embodiment. In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 7, the variation patterns Hp1 to Hp21 are prepared in advance by the manufacturer of the gaming machine 100 and stored in the ROM 212 of the main control unit 201 or the like. Further, in the variation patterns Hp1 to Hp21, a condition derived as a variation pattern determination result is set by the manufacturer of the gaming machine 100.

  For example, the variation patterns Hp1 to Hp7 are normal game state variation patterns, and among these, the variation patterns Hp1 to Hp4 are loss patterns. For this reason, when the jackpot determination result is lost in the normal gaming state, any of the variation patterns Hp1 to Hp4 is derived as the variation pattern determination result. In this case, which of the variation patterns Hp1 to Hp4 is determined according to the variation pattern random number of the variation determination information. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 7, if the variation pattern random number is “0 to 89”, The variation pattern Hp1 is derived as the variation pattern determination result.

  Of the variation patterns Hp1 to Hp7 for the normal gaming state, the variation patterns Hp5 to Hp7 are the variation patterns for jackpot. For this reason, when the jackpot determination result is a jackpot in the normal gaming state, any of the variation patterns Hp5 to Hp7 is derived as the variation pattern determination result. In this case, which of the variation patterns Hp5 to Hp7 is determined according to the variation pattern random number of the variation determination information. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 7, if the variation pattern random number is “0 to 19”, The variation pattern Hp5 is derived as the variation pattern determination result.

  Similarly, the variation patterns Hp8 to Hp14 are variation patterns for the short-time gaming state, and among these, the variation patterns Hp8 to Hp11 are variation patterns for loss. For this reason, when the jackpot determination result is lost in the short-time gaming state, any of the variation patterns Hp8 to Hp11 is derived as the variation pattern determination result according to the variation pattern random number of the variation determination information.

  In addition, among the variation patterns Hp8 to Hp14 for the short-time gaming state, the variation patterns Hp12 to Hp14 are set as variation patterns for jackpot. For this reason, when the jackpot determination result is a big hit in the short-time gaming state, any of the variation patterns Hp12 to Hp14 is derived as the variation pattern determination result according to the variation pattern random number of the variation determination information.

  Similarly, the variation patterns Hp15 to Hp21 are the variation patterns for the probability variation gaming state, and among these, the variation patterns Hp15 to Hp18 are the variation patterns for loss. For this reason, when the jackpot determination result is lost in the probability variation gaming state, any of the variation patterns Hp15 to Hp18 is derived as the variation pattern determination result according to the variation pattern random number of the variation determination information.

  Of the variation patterns Hp15 to Hp21 for the probability variation gaming state, the variation patterns Hp19 to Hp21 are the variation patterns for jackpot. For this reason, when the jackpot determination result is a big hit in the probability variation gaming state, any of the variation patterns Hp19 to Hp21 is derived as the variation pattern determination result according to the variation pattern random number of the variation determination information.

  In the example described here, an example is described in which any variation pattern is derived as the variation pattern determination result based on the gaming state, the jackpot determination result, and the variation pattern random number, but is not limited thereto. Although detailed description is omitted because it is a known technique, a variation pattern that can be derived as a variation pattern determination result when the number of holdings is less than a predetermined value, and a variation pattern determination result that is derived when the number of holdings is a predetermined value or more It is also possible to provide a variation pattern that can be obtained and to derive one of these as a variation pattern determination result according to the number of suspensions at the time of variation pattern determination.

(Example of processing performed by the production control section of the present embodiment)
Next, an example of processing performed by the effect control unit 202 will be described. First, an example of the process performed by the effect supervising unit 202a in the effect control unit 202 will be described. FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of processing performed by the production control unit of the present embodiment. For example, while the gaming machine 100 is activated, the production supervision unit 202a repeatedly executes the process shown in FIG. 8 at a predetermined cycle (for example, every 4 ms).

  In the process shown in FIG. 8, the production supervision unit 202a determines whether or not the special symbol change has started (step S801). As described above, when the change of the special symbol is started, the main control unit 201 notifies the content of the symbol change. When there is this notification, the production control unit 202a makes a positive determination in step S801, and when there is no such notification, the production control unit 202a makes a negative determination in step S801. If a negative determination is made in step S801 (step S801: No), the process proceeds to step S807.

  If an affirmative determination is made in step S801 (step S801: Yes), the content of the started symbol variation is specified based on the notification from the main control unit 201 (step S802). By the process of step S802, a symbol to be stopped in this symbol variation (that is, a jackpot determination result) and a variation pattern to be used for this symbol variation (that is, a variation pattern determination result) are specified.

  Then, the effect supervising unit 202a sets any effect pattern among the plurality of effect patterns in the RAM 243 based on the variation pattern specified by the process of step S802 (step S803). Although details will be described later with reference to FIG. 9 and the like, the ROM 242 of the production supervision unit 202a has a production aspect (for example, reach production, winning production, guidance production, gimmick production, etc.) during the fluctuation of the symbols by the fluctuation patterns Hp1 to Hp21. Effect patterns Ep1 to Ep21 are stored. For this reason, the effect supervising unit 202a provides an effect pattern (for example, if the specified change pattern is the change pattern Hp1) corresponding to the change pattern specified by the process of step S802 from the effect patterns Ep1 to Ep21. The pattern Ep1) is set in the RAM 243.

  Subsequently, the effect supervising unit 202a determines the combination of effect symbols to be stopped based on the jackpot determination result specified by the process of step S802, the effect pattern set by the process of step S803, and the like (step S804). For example, when the jackpot determination result is a 16R probability variable jackpot, a specific jackpot combination (for example, “7”) is determined, and when it is any other jackpot, a non-specific jackpot combination (for example, “ 7) ”. Also, if the jackpot determination result is a loss, if the set production pattern is a production pattern that determines that the reach production is performed, the production pattern is determined to reach reach loss and the reach production is not performed. If so, it will be decided.

  Subsequently, the effect supervising unit 202a determines a background image to be displayed based on the variation pattern specified by the process of step S802 (step S805). For example, when the specified variation pattern is the variation pattern Hp1 to Hp7 for the normal gaming state, the normal background image provided corresponding to the normal performance mode that is the performance mode for the normal gaming state is determined. Further, when the specified variation pattern is the variation pattern Hp8 to Hp14 for the short-time gaming state, the short-time background image provided corresponding to the short-time effect mode which is the effect mode for the short-time gaming state is determined. When the specified variation pattern is the variation pattern Hp15 to Hp21 for the probability variation gaming state, the probability variation background image provided corresponding to the probability variation rendering mode which is the rendering mode for the probability variation gaming state is determined. If a dedicated BGM or the like is provided for each effect mode, the background image to be displayed and the BGM to be output may be determined by the processing in step S805.

  Then, the effect supervising unit 202a transmits an effect start command for instructing start of the effect to the image / sound control unit 202b and the lamp control unit 202c (step S806). This effect start command includes, for example, information representing the processing results of steps S803 to S805. As a result, the production control unit 202a can notify the image / sound control unit 202b and the lamp control unit 202c of the processing results of steps S803 to S805.

  Subsequently, the production control unit 202a determines whether or not the special symbol change is stopped (step S807). As described above, when the variation of the special symbol is stopped, the main control unit 201 notifies that the symbol variation is finished. The production control unit 202a makes an affirmative determination in step S807 when this notification is received, and a negative determination in step S807 when there is no such notification. If a negative determination is made in step S807 (step S807: No), the process proceeds to step S809. When an affirmative determination is made in step S807 (step S807: Yes), an effect end command for instructing the effect end is transmitted to the image / sound control unit 202b and the lamp control unit 202c (step S808).

  Subsequently, the effect supervising unit 202a determines whether or not the effect button 118 has been operated (step S809). If it is determined that the effect button 118 has not been operated (step S809: No), the processing shown in FIG. 8 ends. When it is determined that the effect button 118 has been operated (step S809: Yes), an effect button command indicating that the effect button 118 has been operated is transmitted to the image / sound control unit 202b and the lamp control unit 202c (step S810). ), The process shown in FIG.

(Example of effect pattern in the present embodiment)
Here, an example of the effect pattern in the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the effect pattern in the present embodiment. In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 9, production patterns Ep1 to Ep21 are prepared in advance by the manufacturer of the gaming machine 100 and stored in the ROM 242 or the like of the production supervision unit 202a corresponding to the variation patterns Hp1 to Hp21. ing.

  The production patterns Ep1 to Ep21 define the production mode during the symbol variation by the variation patterns Hp1 to Hp21. For example, the effect pattern Ep1 defines that a normal loss effect (an effect of stopping the effect symbol with a break without causing a reach effect) in the symbol variation by the variation pattern Hp1 is defined. Further, the effect pattern Ep2 defines that the normal reach is performed and the effect symbol is stopped at the reach loss point in the symbol variation by the variation pattern Hp2.

  Furthermore, the effect pattern Ep3 defines that the super reach α is performed in the symbol variation by the variation pattern Hp3, the guidance effect and the winning effect are performed, and the effect symbol is stopped at the reach loss point. In addition, the effect pattern Ep7 is a combination of the effect indicating the jackpot with the super reach β, the guidance effect and the winning effect, and the gimmick effect after the winning effect. Is determined to be stopped. Here, the super reach α and the super reach β are different types (production modes) of the super reach, for example, reach display images displayed in each case and output reach effect sounds (for example, for reach production) BGM) is different.

(An example of processing performed by the image / sound controller of the present embodiment)
Next, an example of processing performed by the image / sound control unit 202b in the effect control unit 202 will be described. FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing performed by the image / sound controller according to the present embodiment. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing an outline of the lottery process performed by the image / sound controller of the present embodiment. For example, while the gaming machine 100 is activated, the image / sound control unit 202b repeatedly executes the process illustrated in FIG. 10 at a predetermined cycle (for example, every 4 ms).

  In the process shown in FIG. 10, the image / sound control unit 202b determines whether or not an effect start command is received from the effect control unit 202a (step S1001). When it determines with not receiving the production start command (step S1001: No), it transfers to the process of step S1009. If it is determined that an effect start command has been received (step S1001: Yes), the effect start command is analyzed, the combination of the effect pattern set in step S803 and the effect symbol determined in step S804, and step The background image determined in S805 is specified (step S1002).

  Subsequently, the image / sound control unit 202b determines whether or not the effect pattern specified in step S1002 is an effect pattern determined to cause a winning effect (step S1003). For example, if the production pattern is production pattern Ep3, Ep4, Ep6, Ep7, Ep10, Ep11, Ep13, Ep14, Ep17, Ep18, Ep20, Ep21, an affirmative determination is made in step S1003, and other production patterns are used. In this case, a negative determination is made in step S1003. If a negative determination is made in step S1003 (step S1003: No), the process proceeds to step S1005.

  When an affirmative determination is made in step S1003 (step S1003: Yes), a winning effect content lottery process for determining whether to be the first winning effect or the second winning effect is executed (step S1004). In step S1004, the image / sound control unit 202b executes a predetermined lottery process for determining whether the first winning effect or the second winning effect is performed, and based on the lottery result, the first winning effect is determined. Or the second winning effect is determined.

  For example, in the winning effect content lottery process, as shown in FIG. 11D, when the jackpot determination result is a loss, the first winning effect is won with a probability of 70/100 and the probability of 30/100 is the first. Two wins will be won. If the jackpot determination result is a jackpot, the first winning effect is won with a probability of 30/100, and the second winning effect is won with a probability of 70/100. For this reason, in the gaming machine 100, the second winning effect is an effect having a higher degree of expectation of jackpot than the first winning effect. Note that the image / sound control unit 202b can determine whether the jackpot determination result is a jackpot or a loss based on, for example, the combination of effect symbols specified in step S1002.

  Subsequently, the image / sound control unit 202b determines whether or not the effect pattern specified in step S1002 is an effect pattern determined to cause a guide effect (step S1005). For example, as in the process of step S1003, if the production pattern is production pattern Ep3, Ep4, Ep6, Ep7, Ep10, Ep11, Ep13, Ep14, Ep17, Ep18, Ep20, Ep21, affirmative determination is made in step S1005, If it is an effect pattern other than these, a negative determination is made in step S1005. If a negative determination is made in step S1005 (step S1005: No), the process proceeds to step S1007.

  When an affirmative determination is made in step S1005 (step S1005: Yes), a guidance effect content lottery process for determining whether to use the first guidance effect or the second guidance effect is executed (step S1006). In step S1006, the image / sound control unit 202b executes a predetermined lottery process for determining whether to use the first guidance effect or the second guidance effect, and based on the lottery result, the first guidance effect. Or to determine the second guidance effect.

  For example, in the guidance effect content lottery process, as shown in FIG. 11E, when the jackpot determination result is a loss, the first guidance effect is won with a probability of 70/100 and the probability of 30/100 is the first. It is designed to win two guidance productions. If the jackpot determination result is a jackpot, the first guidance effect is won with a probability of 30/100 and the second guidance effect is won with a probability of 70/100. For this reason, in the gaming machine 100, the second guidance effect is an effect having a higher degree of expectation of jackpot than the first guidance effect.

  Here, although the winning effect and the guidance effect are determined by separate lottery, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, when it is determined that the first winning effect is performed by winning the winning effect content lottery process, the first guiding effect is determined as the guiding effect, and the second winning effect is determined by the winning effect content lottery process. If it is determined that the second winning effect will be performed and the second guidance effect will be determined as the guidance effect. In this way, the guidance effect content lottery process becomes unnecessary, and the processing load on the image / sound control unit 202b can be reduced.

  Subsequently, the image / sound control unit 202b causes the image display unit 104 to display the background image specified in step S1002, and causes the image display unit 104 to start changing the effect design (step S1007). Then, the image / sound control unit 202b sequentially executes the effects in the effect mode determined by the effect pattern specified in step S1002 when the effect symbols are changed (step S1008).

  For example, the image / sound control unit 202b sequentially displays effect images corresponding to the effects determined by the effect pattern specified in step S1002 on the image display unit 104 according to a schedule predetermined by the manufacturer of the gaming machine 100. Let In addition, the image / sound control unit 202b sequentially outputs effect sound corresponding to the effect determined by the effect pattern specified in step S1002 from the speaker 114 according to a schedule predetermined by the manufacturer of the gaming machine 100.

  The image / sound control unit 202b performs the winning effect and the guidance effect at a predetermined timing when the effect pattern specified in step S1002 defines that the winning effect and the guidance effect are performed. In this case, however, the winning effect and the guidance effect determined in step S1004 and step S1006 are performed. When the image / sound control unit 202b receives the effect button command from the effect control unit 202a for a predetermined number of times (for example, 5 times) while performing the winning effect, the winning effect (the display of the winning effect image and the winning effect sound) is received. Output). In addition, the image / sound control unit 202b does not receive an effect button command from the effect supervising unit 202a a predetermined number of times (for example, 5 times) when performing a win effect, and a predetermined period (from the start of the win effect) For example, when 5 seconds) elapses, the winning effect is terminated. Furthermore, when the production pattern specified in step S1002 determines that the gimmick production is performed, the image / sound control unit 202b, for example, when the winning production is ended, via the production control unit 202a. Then, a command to instruct execution (start) of the gimmick effect is transmitted to the lamp control unit 202c.

  Subsequently, the image / sound control unit 202b determines whether or not an effect end command is received from the effect control unit 202a (step S1009). If it is determined that the effect end command has not been received (step S1009: No), the processing shown in FIG. When it is determined that the effect end command has been received (step S1009: Yes), the change of the effect symbol is stopped so that the combination specified in step S1002 is obtained (step S1010), and the process shown in FIG.

(Specific production example by the gaming machine of this embodiment)
Next, a specific effect example by the gaming machine 100 will be described. FIG. 12-1 is an explanatory diagram (part 1) illustrating a specific example of the effect produced by the gaming machine according to the present embodiment. FIG. 12-2 is an explanatory diagram (part 2) illustrating a specific example of the effect produced by the gaming machine of the present embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 12-1 (t1), on the image display unit 104 of the gaming machine 100, three effect symbols of a left effect symbol Ez1, a middle effect symbol Ez2, and a right effect symbol Ez3 are displayed. Hereinafter, the left effect symbol Ez1, the middle effect symbol Ez2, and the right effect symbol Ez3 are collectively referred to as “effect symbols Ez1 to Ez3”. The production symbols Ez1 to Ez3 represent any number of “1 to 9” when stopped. In the example shown in FIG. 12-1 (t1), the left effect symbol Ez1 indicates “5”, the middle effect symbol Ez2 indicates “1”, and the right effect symbol Ez3 indicates “6”. It corresponds to.

  Moreover, in the image display part 104, a background image is displayed on the back surface of effect design Ez1-Ez3. In the example described here, since it is a normal gaming state, it is set to the normal effect mode, and a normal background image provided in correspondence with the normal effect mode (an image including the characters “normal effect mode” in the illustrated example). Is displayed.

  When the big hit determination is performed, as shown in FIG. 12-1 (t2), the image display unit 104 starts to change the effect symbols Ez1 to Ez3. Hereinafter, as shown in FIG. 12-1 (t2), when the effect symbols Ez1 to Ez3 are illustrated by the lower white arrows, this means that the effect symbols Ez1 to Ez3 are changed. In the example described here, the symbol variation started from FIG. 12-1 (t2) is caused by the variation pattern Hp3 or variation pattern Hp6, that is, the symbol variation in which super reach α is performed (see FIG. 9 and the like). ).

  In this case, when a predetermined period (for example, 10 seconds) elapses from the start of fluctuation, as shown in FIG. 12-1 (t3), the effect symbols Ez1 to Ez3 are set in the reach mode, and the reach effect is started. Since the example described here is an example when super reach α is performed, in this case, as shown in FIG. 12-1 (t3), first, normal reach is once performed before super reach α. Then, after the normal reach, as shown in FIG. 12-1 (t4), the super reach α is developed and the super reach α is performed.

  When super reach α is performed, a reach effect image for super reach α (for example, a movie for super reach α) Rg is displayed on the image display unit 104. Further, when the reach effect image Rg is displayed in order to improve the visibility of the reach effect image Rg, the effect symbols Ez1 to Ez3 are displayed in small symbols. When the effect symbols Ez1 to Ez3 are displayed in small symbols, for example, as shown in FIG. 12-1 (t4), the effect symbols Ez1 to Ez3 are displayed in a reduced size and are displayed at the corners of the display screen of the image display unit 104 (right in the illustrated example). Displayed near the bottom corner. Further, when the super reach α is performed, the reach effect sound for the super reach α (for example, the BGM, the sound or the sound effect for the super reach α) is output from the speaker 114.

  As described above, when the super reach α is performed, a winning effect is performed immediately before the end of the super reach α. However, the guidance effect is performed before the winning effect, and an operation to be performed in the winning effect (in this embodiment) The player is instructed to repeatedly hit the production button 118). When the first guidance effect is performed as the guidance effect, for example, as shown in FIG. 12-2 (t5), for example, the first guidance effect sound “Please strike the effect button repeatedly” with a female voice is output from the speaker 114. Is displayed on the image display unit 104, and a first guidance effect image representing a message “Please hit the effect button continuously!” Is displayed.

  When the second guidance effect is performed as the guidance effect, as shown in FIG. 12-2 (t6), for example, the second guidance effect that a man's voice says, “Put the effect button repeatedly with a spirit” A sound is output from the speaker 114, and a second guidance effect image representing a message such as “Let's play and hit the effect button repeatedly!” Is displayed on the image display unit 104. As described above, in the second guidance effect, the user is strongly urged to perform an operation to be performed in the winning effect (in the present embodiment, repeated striking of the effect button 118) rather than the first guidance effect. Further, in the first guidance effect and the second guidance effect, as shown in FIG. 12-2 (t5) and FIG. 12-2 (t6), the time until the winning effect is started is displayed in a countdown format. ("3 seconds before" in the illustrated example), the start timing of the winning effect may be guided to the player.

  By the way, as described above, when the super reach α is performed, the reach effect sound for the super reach α is output from the speaker 114. In order to make the first guidance effect sound and the second guidance effect sound easy to hear for the player, the gaming machine 100 outputs the first guidance effect sound and the second guidance effect sound until then. Further, the output of the reach effect sound for the super reach α may be stopped. In addition, the gaming machine 100 stops the output of the reach effect sound for the super reach α that has been output until then when outputting the second guidance effect sound that is important for the player (indicating that the expectation degree of jackpot is high). When outputting the first guidance effect sound, the output of the reach effect sound for the super reach α may be continued as it is.

  Thereafter, a winning effect is performed immediately before the end of Super Reach α. When the first winning effect is performed as the winning effect, as shown in FIG. 12-2 (t7), for example, an image showing the effect button 118 being repeatedly hit and a message of “repetitive hit!” Are small in size. Is displayed on the image display unit 104. When the second winning effect is performed as the winning effect, for example, as shown in FIG. 12-2 (t8), for example, an image showing a state where the effect button 118 is repeatedly hit and a message of “continuous hit!” Are large-sized. Is displayed on the image display unit 104. As described above, in the second winning effect, the user is strongly urged to perform the operation to be performed at that time (in this embodiment, the continuous operation of the effect button 118), rather than the first winning effect.

  Further, as described above, the first winning effect and the second winning effect are ended when a predetermined period (for example, 5 seconds) elapses from the start. Therefore, in the first winning effect and the second winning effect, as shown in FIG. 12-2 (t7) and FIG. 12-2 (t8), for example, by displaying the indicator image Ig, The remaining time of the second winning effect may be suggested to the player. In the indicator image Ig, for example, as the remaining time of the first winning effect and the second winning effect decreases, the white portion decreases and the black portion increases as illustrated.

  For example, the first winning effect or the second winning effect ends when the effect button 118 is repeatedly hit (for example, operated five times) after the winning effect starts or when a predetermined period (for example, 5 seconds) has elapsed since the winning effect starts. Then, when the jackpot determination result is a loss, as shown in FIG. 12-2 (t9), advancement of the movable accessory 130 to the front surface of the image display unit 104 (that is, gimmick effect) is not performed. In this case, as shown in FIG. 12-2 (t10), the production symbols Ez1 to Ez3 are stopped at a combination of losses (in the example described here, reach lose eyes).

  On the other hand, when the jackpot determination result is a jackpot, as shown in FIG. 12-2 (t11), the movable accessory 130 advances to the front of the image display unit 104 (that is, gimmick effect). In this case, as shown in FIG. 12-2 (t12), the production symbols Ez1 to Ez3 are stopped in a jackpot combination.

  As described above, the gaming machine 100 can guide the player to perform an operation to be performed in the winning effect by performing the guiding effect before performing the winning effect. Thus, the player can be prepared to perform an operation before the winning effect, and the operation in the winning effect can be prompted. Furthermore, the gaming machine 100 can suggest the jackpot expectation level to the player depending on whether the first guide effect or the second guide effect is performed as the guide effect, and suggests that the jackpot expectation level is high (first In the case of 2 guidance effects), it is possible to increase the player's expectation for the jackpot, further promote the operation in the subsequent winning effects, and enhance the interest of the game.

  In the present embodiment, the winning effect is urged to repeatedly hit the effect button 118 by the guidance effect or the winning effect as an effect of causing the player to repeatedly hit the effect button 118. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, as an effect that causes the player to operate the effect button 118 once for the winning effect, it may be urged to operate the effect button 118 once by the guidance effect or the winning effect. Further, for example, as an effect that causes the player to operate the operation lever 120 a predetermined number of times (for example, once), the operation lever 120 may be prompted to operate the operation lever 120 a predetermined number of times by the guidance effect or the winning effect.

  Further, an effect that prompts the player to perform an operation and causes the player to perform the operation may be performed a plurality of times in one symbol variation. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram (part 2) showing an outline of effects performed by the gaming machine of the present embodiment. In this case, as shown in FIG. 13, for example, the gaming machine 100 performs a predetermined notice effect on the middle of the super reach, performs a winning effect immediately before the end of the super reach, and gives the player an effect button 118 in each of these. Encourage you to hit repeatedly. In this case, for example, when the player repeatedly strikes the effect button 118 in the notice effect, a predetermined probability based on the jackpot determination result (for example, 10/100 for a loss, 50/100 for a jackpot) A high-expected cut-in effect image is displayed. The winning effect is as described above.

  Further, in this case, a guidance effect (for example, the first guidance effect or the second guidance effect described above) is performed immediately before the announcement effect and the winning effect, and an operation to be performed in the announcement effect immediately before the announcement effect (described here). In the example, guidance of the direct button 118) is guided, and in the guidance effect immediately before the winning effect, the operation to be performed in the winning effect (in the example described here, the direct hit of the effect button 118) is guided. Whether the first guidance effect or the second guidance effect is performed as the guidance effect immediately before the notice effect is determined by performing the same process as the guidance effect content lottery process described above, for example, as shown in FIG. Determine with probability.

  That is, in this case, if the jackpot determination result is a loss, the guidance effect immediately before the notice effect is determined as the first guide effect with a probability of 70/100, and is determined as the second guide effect with a probability of 30/100. . If the jackpot determination result is a jackpot, the guidance effect immediately before the announcement effect is determined as the first guidance effect with a probability of 30/100, and is determined as the second guidance effect with a probability of 70/100. In this way, the gaming machine 100 can prompt the operation in the notice effect by the guidance effect immediately before the notice effect, and can prompt the operation in the winning effect by the guide effect immediately before the effect. It is possible to enhance the interest of the game by allowing the player to perform operations on both sides.

  In addition, the probability that the second guidance effect is performed as the guidance effect immediately before the announcement effect may be different from the probability that the second guidance effect is performed as the guidance effect immediately before the winning effect. For example, when the jackpot determination result is a jackpot, the probability that the second guidance effect will be performed as the guidance effect immediately before the announcement effect, and when the jackpot determination result is a jackpot, the second guidance effect is performed as the guide effect immediately before the winning effect. Lower than the probability of being That is, even if the jackpot determination result is a jackpot, the second guidance effect is hardly performed as the guidance effect immediately before the notice effect. In this way, it is easier to suggest that the guidance effect immediately before the winning effect is higher in the jackpot expectation than the guidance effect immediately before the notice effect, and toward the end of the change (for the second half of the effect) The player's expectation can be increased in stages. In addition, the guidance effect just before the notice effect suggested that the jackpot expectation level was high, but the guidance effect just before the win effect suggested that the jackpot expectation level was low. It is also possible to reduce the possibility of being lost.

  In addition, the gaming machine 100 performs such a notice effect based on a prior determination result, for example, a symbol change before a super-reach symbol change that becomes a big hit or a loss (for example, one symbol change before the super-reach symbol change). (Hereinafter referred to as “previous fluctuation”). In this case, the notice effect and the guidance effect immediately before the notice effect are performed in the previous fluctuation, and the super reach, the winning effect, and the guidance effect immediately before the winning effect are performed in the pattern change of the super reach. become.

  As described above, according to the present invention, the player's sense of expectation and willingness to operate can be increased, and the interest of the game can be enhanced.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 Game machine 104 Image display part 105 1st starting opening 106 2nd starting opening 109a Grand prize opening

Claims (1)

Determining means for determining whether or not to play a special game advantageous to the player;
Operation means that can be operated by the player;
An effect control means capable of controlling the effect means and executing a predetermined effect based on the determination result of the determination means;
With
The production control means includes
It is possible to execute an operation effect that prompts the user to operate the operation means with a predetermined operation content,
It is possible to execute a specific effect suggesting that the special game is likely to be performed according to the operation means being operated with the predetermined operation content in the operation effect,
When executing the operation effect, it is possible to execute a guidance effect for guiding the predetermined operation content to a player before executing the operation effect,
As the operation effect,
When the first operation effect that prompts the user to operate with the predetermined operation content is executed according to the first effect mode, and the second operation mode that prompts the user to operate with the predetermined operation content according to the second effect mode different from the first effect mode. There is a time to execute the operation effect,
As the guidance production,
When the first guidance effect that guides the predetermined operation content by the third effect mode is executed, and the second guidance effect that guides the predetermined operation content by the fourth effect mode different from the third effect mode is executed. And when
When the operation means is operated with the predetermined operation content in the second operation effect, the operation means is operated with the predetermined operation content after the operation means is operated with the predetermined operation content in the first operation effect. Specific production is easy to execute,
A gaming machine, wherein the second operation effect is more easily executed as the subsequent operation effect when the second guide effect is executed than when the first guide effect is executed.

Images