JP2017113385A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine capable of performing proper game presentations to attract interest of players.SOLUTION: A game machine includes: presentation control means for controlling presentations related to games; presentation performance means for performing predetermined presentations, on the basis of instructions by the presentation control means; and operation means capable of being operated by a player. Further, on the basis of having received an operation to the operation means during an operation reception period which is a period for receiving operations to the operation means, the presentation performance means can perform an operation corresponding presentation corresponding to the operation. However, on the basis of having received an operation to the operation means during a final specific period in the operation reception period, the presentation performance means restricts a performance of the operation corresponding presentation.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 32

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine played by a player.

  Some modern gaming machines, such as pachinko gaming machines, have various effects to entertain a player. For example, during execution of a reach effect, there are many that suggest whether or not a big hit is made by executing an effect using an operation button operation by a player (see, for example, Non-Patent Document 1).

"Pachinko victory guide", Guide Works Co., Ltd., August 3, 2014 issue, August 3, 2014 issue, page 8, CR wolf Become golden, "Horror battle blow, three blows, raid"

  As described above, the game machines currently offer not only fun to acquire game media (game machines, medals, etc.) but also various interesting game effects that can attract the player's interest. Is required. For this reason, gaming machines are always required to have a game effect that can attract the player's interest, and the game effect is very important. Therefore, the game effect is required to be controlled appropriately.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and a main purpose thereof is to provide a gaming machine capable of performing an appropriate game effect in order to attract the player's interest.

  In order to achieve the above object, one aspect of the present invention employs the following configuration. In addition, reference numerals in parentheses, explanations, and the like indicate correspondence relationships with embodiments described later in order to help understanding of the present invention, and do not limit the scope of one aspect of the present invention. Absent.

  A gaming machine (1) according to the present invention includes an effect control means (400) for controlling an effect related to a game, an effect execution means (500) for executing a predetermined effect based on an instruction from the effect control means, and a player Operating means (37) which can be operated. Then, based on the fact that there has been an operation on the operation means in the operation reception period, which is a period in which an operation on the operation means is received, the effect execution means provides an operation corresponding effect (meter image MI shown in FIG. 33) corresponding to the operation. Execution of the operation corresponding effect is restricted based on the fact that there is an operation on the operation means in the last specific period (see FIGS. 32 and 37) of the operation reception period.

  Further, the effect execution means can transmit the first signal (effective operation information) to the effect control means based on the operation to the operation means during the operation acceptance period. Based on the reception of the first signal, a second signal (production instruction command) for instructing execution of the operation-compatible effect is transmitted to the effect execution unit, and the effect execution unit receives the second signal from the effect control unit. Based on that, the operation corresponding effect is executed, and based on the fact that there is an operation on the operation means in the last specific period in the operation reception period, the transmission of the first signal to the effect control means is limited. It is good.

  The effect execution means transmits a first signal to the effect control means based on an operation on the operation means during the operation reception period, and the effect control means receives the first signal from the effect execution means. The second signal instructing the execution of the operation corresponding effect can be transmitted to the effect executing means, and the effect executing means executes the operation corresponding effect based on the reception of the second signal from the effect control means. Then, the effect control means may restrict the transmission of the second signal to the effect executing means based on the reception of the first signal in the last specific period of the operation reception period.

  The effect execution means transmits a first signal to the effect control means based on an operation on the operation means during the operation reception period, and the effect control means receives the first signal from the effect execution means. And the second execution signal is transmitted to the effect execution means, and the effect execution means can execute the operation corresponding effect based on the reception of the second signal from the effect control means. Yes, based on the fact that the second signal is received after the operation reception period has elapsed, the execution of the operation-related effect may be limited.

  ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, the gaming machine which can perform a suitable game production in order to attract a player's interest can be provided.

Schematic front view showing an example of a pachinko gaming machine 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention The enlarged view which shows an example of the indicator 4 provided in the pachinko machine 1 of FIG. Partial plan view of the pachinko gaming machine 1 of FIG. The block diagram which shows an example of a structure of the control apparatus provided in the pachinko gaming machine 1 The figure for demonstrating an example of the game ball passage determination process peculiar to this embodiment The figure for demonstrating an example of the jackpot breakdown of the special symbol lottery which concerns on this embodiment An example of a flowchart showing main processing executed by the main control unit 100 An example of a detailed flowchart of the power-off monitoring process in step S911 in FIG. An example of a detailed flowchart of the recovery process in step S909 of FIG. An example of a flowchart showing timer interrupt processing performed by the main control unit 100 An example of a detailed flowchart of the start port switch process in step S2 of FIG. An example of a detailed flowchart of the special symbol process in step S4 of FIG. The figure for demonstrating an example of a fluctuation pattern determination table The figure for demonstrating an example of a fluctuation pattern determination table The figure for demonstrating an example of a fluctuation pattern determination table The figure for demonstrating an example of a fluctuation pattern determination table An example of a detailed flowchart of the big prize opening process in step S6 of FIG. An example of a detailed flowchart of the big prize opening process in step S6 of FIG. An example of a flowchart showing timer interrupt processing performed by the effect control unit 400 An example of a detailed flowchart showing command reception processing in step S11 of FIG. An example of a detailed flowchart showing command reception processing in step S11 of FIG. An example of a detailed flowchart showing the notification effect setting process in step S115 of FIG. An example of a flowchart showing an opening effect process executed by the image sound control unit 500 An example of a flowchart showing a round effect process executed by the image sound control unit 500 An example of a flowchart showing a winning process executed by the image sound control unit 500 An example of a flowchart showing an ending effect process executed by the image sound control unit 500 An example of a detailed flowchart showing the effect input control process in step S12 of FIG. The figure for demonstrating an example of the reference table for determining operation corresponding | compatible production An example of a flowchart showing an effect execution process executed by the image sound control unit 500 An example of a flowchart showing operation information transmission / reception processing executed by the image sound control unit 500 in the first embodiment An example of a timing chart for conventional operation-compatible effects An example of a timing chart related to an operation-compatible effect in the first embodiment The figure for demonstrating an example of operation corresponding | compatible production The figure for demonstrating an example of operation corresponding | compatible production An example of a flowchart showing operation information transmission / reception processing executed by the image sound control unit 500 in the second embodiment An example of a detailed flowchart showing the effect input control process in the second embodiment An example of a timing chart related to an operation corresponding effect in the second embodiment The block diagram which shows the modification of a structure of the control apparatus provided in the pachinko gaming machine 1

  Hereinafter, a pachinko gaming machine 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings as appropriate. Hereinafter, the pachinko gaming machine 1 may be simply referred to as a gaming machine 1.

[Schematic configuration of pachinko gaming machine 1]
Hereinafter, a schematic configuration of the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 1 is a schematic front view showing an example of a gaming machine 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is an enlarged view showing an example of the display 4 provided in the gaming machine 1. FIG. 3 is a partial plan view of the gaming machine 1.

  In FIG. 1, a gaming machine 1 is a pachinko gaming machine configured to pay out a winning ball when a gaming ball launched by a player's operation wins a prize, for example. This gaming machine 1 includes a game board 2 on which game balls are launched, and a frame member 5 surrounding the game board 2. The frame member 5 is configured to be openable and closable with respect to the main part of the gaming machine 1 around a hinge provided on the shaft support side. And the lock part 43 is provided in the predetermined position (for example, edge part on the opposite side to a shaft support side) which becomes the front side of the frame member 5, and the frame member 5 is unlocked by unlocking the lock part 43. Can be opened.

  A game area 20 for playing a game with a game ball is formed on the front surface of the game board 2. In the gaming area 20, a rail member (from which a game ball launched from below (the launching device 211; see FIG. 4) rises along the main surface of the game board 2 and forms a path toward the upper position of the gaming area 20 ( (Not shown) and a guide member (not shown) for guiding the raised game ball to the right side of the game area 20.

  In addition, the game board 2 is provided with an image display unit 6 that displays images for various effects at positions that are easily visible to the player. The image display unit 6 notifies the player of the result of the special symbol lottery (big hit lottery), for example, by displaying a decorative symbol according to the progress of the game by the player, the appearance of a character, the appearance of an item, etc. Or a reserved image showing the number of times the special symbol lottery is held. The image display unit 6 is configured by a liquid crystal display device, an EL (Electro Luminescence) display device, or the like, but any other display device may be used. Furthermore, a movable accessory 7 and a board lamp 8 used for various effects are provided on the front surface of the game board 2. The movable accessory 7 is configured to be movable with respect to the game board 2, and produces an effect by performing a predetermined operation in accordance with the progress of the game or in accordance with the operation of the player. The board lamp 8 emits light according to the progress of the game, thereby performing various effects by light.

  In the game area 20, a game nail and a windmill (both not shown) that change the falling direction of the game ball are arranged. Further, in the game area 20, various bonuses related to winning and lottery are arranged at predetermined positions. In FIG. 1, the first start port 21, the second start port 22, the gate 25, the big winning port 23, and the normal winning port 24 are arranged on the game board 2 as an example of various prizes related to winning and lottery. It is installed. In addition, the game area 20 is provided with a discharge port 26 through which game balls that have not been won in any of the game areas of the game balls launched into the game area 20 are discharged out of the game area 20. .

  The first start port 21 and the second start port 22 are awarded when a game ball enters, respectively, and a special symbol lottery (big hit lottery) is started. The first start port 21 operates a predetermined special electric accessory (large winning port 23) and / or a predetermined special symbol display (first special symbol display 4a described later). It is a winning opening related to winning a game ball. Further, the second start opening 22 operates the special electric accessory and / or a predetermined special symbol display device (second special symbol display device 4b described later), and wins related to winning a game ball. The mouth. When the game ball passes through the gate 25, the normal symbol lottery (the open / close lottery of the electric tulip 27 described below) starts. The lottery is not started even if a game ball wins the normal winning opening 24.

  The 2nd starting port 22 is provided in the lower part of the 1st starting port 21, and is equipped with the electric tulip 27 in the vicinity of the entrance of a game ball as an example of a normal electric accessory. The electric tulip 27 has a pair of wings imitating tulip flowers, and the pair of wings opens and closes left and right by driving an electric tulip opening / closing unit 112 (for example, an electric solenoid) described later. When the pair of blade portions are closed, the electric tulip 27 is in a closed state in which the game ball does not enter the second start port 22 because the opening width guided to the entrance of the second start port 22 is extremely narrow. On the other hand, the electric tulip 27 is in an open state in which the game ball can easily enter the second starting port 22 because the opening width guided to the inlet of the second starting port 22 increases when the pair of wings open to the left and right. . When the electric tulip 27 passes through the gate 25 and the normal symbol lottery is won, the pair of blades opens for a specified time (for example, 0.10 seconds) and opens and closes for a specified number of times (for example, once). To do.

  The big winning opening 23 is located at the lower center of the second starting opening 22 and is opened according to the result of the special symbol lottery. The big prize opening 23 is normally in a closed state so that no game balls can enter, but depending on the result of the special symbol lottery, it protrudes from the main surface of the game board 2 and is in an open state. The game ball is easy to enter. For example, the special winning opening 23 repeats a round that is in an open state until a predetermined condition (for example, 29.5 seconds elapses or a winning of 10 game balls) is satisfied a predetermined number of times (for example, 16 times).

  Further, on the lower right side of the game board 2, a display 4 for displaying the results of the special symbol lottery and the normal symbol lottery described above and the number of reserved items is arranged. Details of the display 4 will be described later.

  Here, the payout of prize balls will be described. When a game ball enters (wins) the first start port 21, the second start port 22, the big winning port 23, and the normal winning port 24, a predetermined number per game ball is determined according to the place where the game ball has won. The prize ball is paid out. For example, when one game ball is won at the first start port 21 and the second start port 22, three prize balls are awarded, and when one game ball is won at the big prize port 23, thirteen prize balls are given to the normal prize slot 24. When one game ball is won, ten prize balls are paid out. Even if it is detected that the game ball has passed through the gate 25, there is no payout of the prize ball in conjunction with it.

  The frame member 5 on the front surface of the gaming machine 1 is provided with a handle 31, a lever 32, a stop button 33, a take-out button 34, a speaker 35, a frame lamp 36, an effect button 37, an effect key 38, a dish 39, and the like. Yes.

  When the player touches the handle 31 and performs an operation to rotate the lever 32 clockwise, the launching device 211 (100 per minute) with a hitting force according to the operation angle (for example, 100 per minute). 4) electrically fires the game ball. The tray 39 (see FIG. 3) is provided so as to protrude in front of the gaming machine 1 and temporarily stores game balls supplied to the launching device 211. In addition, the above-described prize balls are paid out to the plate 39. The game balls stored in the tray 39 are supplied to the launching device 211 one by one by a supply device (not shown) at a timing linked with the operation by the player's lever 32.

  The stop button 33 is provided on the lower side surface of the handle 31, and even when the player touches the handle 31 and rotates the lever 32 in the clockwise direction, the game ball is released by being pressed by the player. Is temporarily stopped. The take-out button 34 is provided on the front surface in the vicinity of the position where the tray 39 is provided, and when the player presses it, the game balls accumulated in the tray 39 are dropped into a box (not shown).

  The speaker 35 and the frame lamp 36 respectively notify the gaming state and situation of the gaming machine 1 and perform various effects. The speaker 35 performs various effects using music, voice, and sound effects. In addition, the frame lamp 36 performs various effects by light depending on a pattern by lighting / flashing or a difference in emission color.

  Next, the display 4 provided in the gaming machine 1 will be described with reference to FIG. In FIG. 2, the display 4 includes a first special symbol display 4a, a second special symbol display 4b, a first special symbol hold indicator 4c, a second special symbol hold indicator 4d, a normal symbol indicator 4e, and a normal symbol indicator 4e. A symbol hold display 4f and a game status display 4g are provided.

  The first special symbol display 4a is displayed with the display symbol varying corresponding to the winning of the game ball at the first starting port 21. For example, the first special symbol display 4a is composed of a 7-segment display device, and when a game ball is won at the first starting port 21, the special symbol is displayed in a variable manner, and then the lottery result is displayed. Further, the second special symbol display 4b is displayed with the display symbols varying corresponding to the winning of the game ball at the second starting port 22. For example, the second special symbol display 4b is similarly composed of a 7-segment display device, and when a game ball wins at the second starting port 22, the special symbol is displayed in a variable manner and then stopped and the lottery result is displayed. To do. In the normal symbol display 4e, the display symbol is changed and displayed in response to the game ball passing through the gate 25. For example, the normal symbol display 4e is constituted by an LED display device, and when a game ball passes through the gate 25, the normal symbol is variably displayed and then stopped and displayed.

  The first special symbol hold indicator 4c displays the number of times that the special symbol lottery is held when a game ball wins at the first start port 21. The second special symbol hold indicator 4d displays the number of times that the special symbol lottery is held when the game ball wins at the second start port 22. The normal symbol hold display 4f displays the number of times the normal symbol lottery is held. For example, the first special symbol hold indicator 4c, the second special symbol hold indicator 4d, and the normal symbol hold indicator 4f are each composed of LED display devices arranged in a row, and the number of times of hold is displayed according to the lighting mode. The

  The game state display 4g displays a game state (such as a short time state) when the gaming machine 1 is powered on.

  Next, an input device provided in the gaming machine 1 will be described with reference to FIG. In FIG. 3, the gaming machine 1 is provided with an effect button 37 and an effect key 38 as an example of an input device.

  The effect button 37 and the effect key 38 are provided for the player to input the effect. The effect button 37 is provided on the side of the upper surface of the tray 39 protruding forward of the gaming machine 1. The production key 38 has a center key and four direction keys arranged in a substantially cross shape, and is provided on the upper side of the plate 39 adjacent to the production button 37. The effect button 37 and the effect key 38 are each pressed by the player to perform a predetermined effect. For example, the player can enjoy a predetermined effect by pressing the effect button 37 at a predetermined timing. Further, the player can select one of a plurality of images displayed on the image display unit 6 by operating the four direction keys of the effect key 38. Further, the player can input the selected image as information by operating the center key of the effect key 38.

  In addition, on the back side of the gaming machine 1, a ball tank for storing game balls for payout and a payout device (payout drive unit 311) for paying out the game balls to the tray 39 are provided, and various substrates are attached. ing. For example, a main board, a sub board, and the like are disposed on the rear surface of the game board 2. Specifically, a main control board on which a main control unit 100 (see FIG. 4) that performs internal lottery and determination of winning is configured is disposed on the main board. The sub-board includes a firing control board 200 (see FIG. 4) configured to control a launching device 211 that launches a game ball to the upper part of the game area 20, and a payout control unit 300 that controls the payout of a prize ball. A payout control board configured with an effect control board configured with an effect control section 400 for overall control of effects, an image control board configured with an image acoustic control section 500 for controlling effects with images and sounds, and various types The lamp control board etc. in which the lamp control part 600 which controls the effect by the lamp (frame lamp 36, panel lamp 8) and the movable accessory 7 are arranged. In addition, on the rear surface of the gaming board 2, the power source of the gaming machine 1 is switched on / off, and 24V (volt) AC power supplied to the gaming machine 1 is converted into DC power of various voltages. A switching power supply is provided for outputting the direct current power to the various substrates described above.

[Configuration of control device of pachinko gaming machine 1]
Next, with reference to FIG. 4, a control device that performs operation control and signal processing in the gaming machine 1 will be described. FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the control device provided in the gaming machine 1.

  4, the control device of the gaming machine 1 includes a main control unit 100, a launch control unit 200, a payout control unit 300, an effect control unit 400, an image sound control unit 500, a lamp control unit 600, and the like.

  The main control unit 100 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 101, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 102, and a RAM (Random Access Memory) 103. The CPU 101 performs arithmetic processing when performing various controls related to the number of payout prize balls, such as internal lottery and determination of winning. The ROM 102 stores programs executed by the CPU 101 and various data. The RAM 103 is used as a working memory for the CPU 101. Hereinafter, main functions of the main control unit 100 will be described.

  The main control unit 100 performs a special symbol lottery (big hit lottery) when a game ball wins at the first starting port 21 or the second starting port 22, and effects control is performed on determination result data indicating whether or not the special symbol lottery is won. Send to part 400.

  The main control unit 100 controls the opening time when the blade portion of the electric tulip 27 is opened, the number of times the blade portion is opened and closed, and the opening / closing time interval at which the blade portion is opened and closed. Further, the main control unit 100 executes the special symbol lottery execution suspension number when the game ball wins the first start port 21, the special symbol lottery execution suspension number when the game ball wins the second start port 22, In addition, the number of execution suspensions of the normal symbol lottery when the game ball passes through the gate 25 is managed, and data related to the number of suspensions is sent to the effect control unit 400.

  The main control unit 100 controls the opening / closing operation of the special winning opening 23 according to the result of the special symbol lottery. For example, the main controller 100 repeats a predetermined number of rounds (for example, 29.5 seconds have passed or 10 game balls have been won) in which the big winning opening 23 projects and inclines and opens. (16 times). Further, the main control unit 100 controls the opening / closing time interval at which the special winning opening 23 opens and closes.

  The main control unit 100 changes the game state in accordance with the progress of the game, and according to the progress of the game, the winning probability of the special symbol lottery, the execution interval of the special symbol lottery (the special symbol is variably displayed on the display 4) In other words, it may be said that it is a time to stop and display), and the opening / closing operation of the electric tulip 27 is changed.

  When a game ball wins the first start port 21, the second start port 22, the big winning port 23, and the normal winning port 24, the main control unit 100 determines a predetermined amount per game ball according to the place where the game ball has won. The payout control unit 300 is instructed to pay out a number of prize balls. Even if the main control unit 100 detects that the game ball has passed through the gate 25, the main control unit 100 does not instruct the payout control unit 300 to pay out the prize ball in conjunction therewith. When the payout control unit 300 pays out a prize ball according to an instruction from the main control unit 100, information on the number of prize balls paid out from the payout control unit 300 is sent to the main control unit 100. Then, the main control unit 100 manages the number of paid-out prize balls based on the information acquired from the payout control unit 300.

  In order to realize the above-described functions, the main control unit 100 includes a first start port switch 111a, a second start port switch 111b, an electric tulip opening / closing unit 112, a gate switch 113, a big prize opening switch 114, a big prize opening opening / closing. 115, normal winning opening switch 116, display 4 (first special symbol display 4a, second special symbol display 4b, first special symbol hold indicator 4c, second special symbol hold indicator 4d, normal symbol display 4e, a normal symbol hold display 4f, and a game status display 4g) are connected.

  The first start port switch 111 a sends a signal to the main control unit 100 in response to the winning of the game ball to the first start port 21. The second start port switch 111 b sends a signal corresponding to the winning of the game ball to the second start port 22 to the main control unit 100. The electric tulip opening / closing unit 112 opens and closes the pair of blade portions of the electric tulip 27 in accordance with a control signal sent from the main control unit 100. The gate switch 113 sends a signal corresponding to the game ball passing through the gate 25 to the main control unit 100. The big winning opening switch 114 sends a signal corresponding to the winning of the game ball to the big winning opening 23 to the main control unit 100. The special prize opening / closing unit 115 opens and closes the special prize opening 23 in accordance with a control signal sent from the main control unit 100. The normal winning port switch 116 sends a signal to the main control unit 100 in response to the winning of the game ball to the normal winning port 24.

[Switch processing of this embodiment]
Below, the switch process (game ball passage determination process) of the present embodiment will be specifically described. Note that this game ball passage determination process is limited to the case where it is determined that a game ball has entered (or passed) the first start port 21, the second start port 22, the gate 25, the big winning port 23, or the like. For example, it is also executed when the payout control unit 300 determines (counts) the paid-out prize balls (number of prize balls).

  FIG. 5 shows an example of the output signal of the proximity switch installed as the first start port switch 111a for detecting the game ball winning (passing) to the first start port 21 and the like, and the output signal. It is a figure for demonstrating the example of the binarization signal binarized into the ON level and the OFF level using the passage determination threshold value (5V). As an example, the proximity switch has a circular through hole through which a game ball passes through a rectangular plate, and outputs an output signal of a voltage corresponding to a change in magnetic flux when the game ball passes through the through hole. This is a direct current 2-wire electronic switch for output. As shown by the dotted line in FIG. 5, the voltage level of the output signal of the proximity switch decreases as the game ball approaches the center of the through hole, and becomes the minimum (minimum) when the game ball reaches the center of the through hole. The game ball rises as it passes through the center of the through hole and leaves. Further, as shown in FIG. 5, the output signal of the proximity switch is converted to an OFF level of the binarized signal when the voltage level is larger than the passage determination threshold (5V) by a comparator (not shown), and the voltage level is When it is below the passage determination threshold value (5 V), it is converted into an ON level of the binarized signal. In the example of FIG. 5, the passage determination threshold used for the determination is described as one passage determination threshold (5V). However, for example, when switching from the OFF level to the ON level, the first passage determination threshold (5V) is used. On the other hand, the second passage determination threshold (6V) may be used when switching from the ON level to the OFF level. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the binarized signal from improperly switching between ON / OFF due to the output signal of the proximity switch going up and down across the passage determination threshold due to the influence of noise or the like.

  Then, as part of each processing in the timer interrupt processing executed at intervals of 4 milliseconds (4 ms) by the main control unit 100 described later with reference to FIG. 10, the binarized signal shown in FIG. By determining ON / OFF, the game ball is determined to pass. This will be specifically described below.

  As shown in FIG. 5, it is determined at intervals of 4 milliseconds (ON / OFF determination) whether the binary signal is at the ON level or the OFF level. In FIG. 5, the natural number n is used to represent the order of ON / OFF determination. In FIG. 5, the OFF level is determined by the (n−2) -th to n-th ON / OFF determinations, and then the ON level is determined by the (n + 1) th ON / OFF determination. Here, in the present embodiment, when the ON level is determined, in the ON / OFF determination processing determined to be the ON level, a predetermined minute time (for example, 4 microseconds) shorter than the 4 millisecond interval is used. The second ON / OFF determination is executed at the elapsed timing. In FIG. 5, the ON / OFF determination in the (n + 1) th timer interrupt process is determined to be the ON level both times. Thereafter, it is determined to be the OFF level by the ON / OFF determination from the (n + 2) th time to the (n + 4) th time. Note that the ON level period of the binarized signal (referred to as the ON period) is longer than in the case of FIG. 5 (that is, the game ball passes at a slower speed than in the case of FIG. 5). When the determination is also executed during the ON period, the determination is executed twice in the (n + 2) th ON / OFF determination.

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 5, when the ON level is determined to be the OFF level by the nth ON / OFF determination and the ON level is determined to be the second ON level by the (n + 1) th ON / OFF determination, It is determined that one game ball has passed. The ON / OFF determination is performed by the main control unit 100 (more precisely, the CPU 101) for the proximity switch installed as the first start port switch 111a, for example, and connected to the payout control unit 300, for example. The payout control unit 300 (more precisely, the CPU 301) executes the proximity switch for detecting the payout number of the game balls that have been played (see FIG. 4).

  Here, the predetermined minute time (for example, 4 microseconds) in the (n + 1) th ON / OFF determination shown in FIG. 5 is set in advance according to the software programming content for executing the calculation process of the game ball passage determination. The That is, the predetermined minute time described above is a variable time that can be set to an arbitrary time depending on the programming content. The gaming machine 1 may generate fine period noise (for example, noise of 3 to 15 microsecond period), and this noise period depends to some extent on the type of gaming machine. For example, a certain type of gaming machine is likely to generate noise with a period of 5 microseconds, and a certain type of gaming machine is likely to generate noise with a period of 9 microseconds. Therefore, in the present embodiment, by adopting a configuration in which the predetermined minute time described above can be set to an arbitrary time depending on the programming content, it is possible to effectively avoid erroneous determination due to noise of a fine cycle. Note that the arithmetic processing for providing the predetermined minute time described above is processing that is not related to the progress of the game and is only for earning time. For example, by repeating a process requiring a time of 1 microsecond four times, 4 microseconds can be provided as the above-mentioned predetermined minute time in software.

  By the way, in recent gaming machines, the processing load has increased due to an increase in the contents of arithmetic processing, so the execution interval of timer interrupt processing, which was 2 milliseconds in the previous gaming machine, has been extended to 4 milliseconds. As described with reference to FIG. 5, the ON / OFF determination using the proximity switch is also extended from the 2 millisecond interval and executed at an interval of 4 millisecond.

  Here, the previous gaming machine is determined to be the OFF level by the nth ON / OFF determination, is determined to be the ON level by the (n + 1) th ON / OFF determination, and is determined to be the ON level by the (n + 2) th ON / OFF determination. As a result, it was determined that one game ball passed (hereinafter referred to as “previous determination method”). That is, the game ball passage is determined by three ON / OFF determinations by three timer interruption processes. The reason for determining the ON level at the (n + 1) th time and the (n + 2) th time as described above is to avoid erroneous determination that the game ball has passed due to the accidental determination of the ON level once due to noise. However, in a recent gaming machine in which the ON / OFF determination interval is extended to an interval of 4 milliseconds, the previous determination method described above cannot determine the passage of a game ball passing at a high speed. For example, as the binarized signal ON level period (ON period) shown in FIG. 5 becomes very short (for example, around 7 milliseconds), it is difficult to determine the passing of the game ball passing at a higher speed. End up. Therefore, in the present embodiment, it is determined that one game ball has passed by the determination method described with reference to FIG. From this, according to this embodiment, it is possible to reliably determine the passing of the game ball while preventing erroneous determination due to noise by the ON / OFF determination by two timer interruption processes.

  By the way, the gaming machine 1 includes a power monitoring circuit for detecting that the power supply to the gaming machine 1 is cut off, a disconnection detection circuit for detecting that the wiring of the proximity switch is disconnected, and a proximity switch. An abnormality detection circuit (not shown) such as a short circuit detection circuit for detecting that the wiring is short-circuited (short circuit) is provided. These abnormality detection circuits provide a threshold (abnormality determination level) for determining the occurrence of an abnormality at a voltage level higher than the passage determination threshold (5 V) shown in FIG. Therefore, when the voltage of the output signal of the proximity switch decreases, an abnormality is determined before the voltage of the output signal drops to the passage determination threshold, thereby preventing erroneous determination that the game ball has passed. Thus, since the abnormality determination level is provided at a voltage level higher than the passage determination threshold, it is difficult to take a long ON period by setting the passage determination threshold to a high value (for example, 10 V) (see FIG. 5). ). As a result, in the gaming machine 1, it is not realistic to determine the passage of the game ball using the previous determination method by taking a long ON period of the output signal.

In the switch processing described above, the second ON / OFF determination may not be performed in the timer interrupt processing determined to be ON that is executed after the timer interrupt processing determined to be ON.
Further, in the switch processing described above, it may be configured to detect the passage of the game ball by detecting the place where the binarized signal is switched from ON to OFF. That is, in FIG. 5, it may be determined that one game ball has passed with the determination that the n + 1 time timer interrupt process is turned on twice and the n + 2 time timer interrupt process is turned off.
Further, in the switch processing described above, in one timer interrupt process (ON detection), ON / OFF determination may be performed three times or more. In one timer interrupt process (OFF detection), You may perform ON / OFF determination twice or more.
In addition, in the switch processing described above, a configuration may be adopted in which the game ball passage determination is performed without converting the output signal (analog signal) of the proximity switch into a binary signal (digital signal). In other words, the game ball passage determination may be performed by determining whether or not the output signal (analog signal) of the proximity switch is equal to or less than the passage determination threshold (5 V).
In the switch processing described above, the output signal of the proximity switch is an output signal that is at a low voltage level when the game ball is not detected and becomes a high voltage level when the game ball is detected. Thus, the output signal may be inverted and converted into a signal as indicated by a dotted line in FIG.
Further, the switch processing described above may be configured such that the proximity switch itself converts the analog signal into a binarized signal and outputs it, and the binarized signal is output from the proximity switch.

  This is the end of the description of the switch processing (game ball passage determination processing) of the present embodiment, and the description returns to FIG.

  In addition, the main control unit 100 displays the result of a special symbol lottery started by winning a game ball at the first starting port 21 (hereinafter sometimes referred to as a first special symbol lottery) on the first special symbol display 4a. indicate. The main control unit 100 displays on the second special symbol display 4b the result of the special symbol lottery started by the winning of the game ball to the second starting port 22 (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the second special symbol lottery). . The main control unit 100 displays the number of times the first special symbol lottery is on hold on the first special symbol hold display 4c. The main control unit 100 displays the number of holdings for which the second special symbol lottery is held on the second special symbol holding display 4d. The main control unit 100 displays the result of the normal symbol lottery started by passing the game ball to the gate 25 on the normal symbol display 4e. The main control unit 100 displays the number of times of holding the normal symbol lottery on the normal symbol hold display 4f. Further, the main control unit 100 displays the gaming state at that time on the gaming state display 4g when the gaming machine 1 is turned on.

  The launch control unit 200 includes a CPU 201, a ROM 202, and a RAM 203. The CPU 201 performs arithmetic processing when performing various controls related to the launching device 211. The ROM 202 stores programs executed by the CPU 201 and various data. The RAM 203 is used as a working memory for the CPU 201.

  When the lever 32 is in the neutral position, the lever 32 is in a firing stop state without outputting a signal. When the player is rotated clockwise by the player, the lever 32 outputs a signal corresponding to the rotation angle to the firing control unit 200 as a hitting ball firing command signal. The launch control unit 200 controls the launch operation of the launch device 211 based on the hit ball launch command signal. For example, the launch control unit 200 controls the operation of the launch device 211 so that the speed at which the game ball is launched increases as the rotation angle of the lever 32 increases. When the signal indicating that the stop button 33 is pressed is output, the launch control unit 200 stops the operation of the launch device 211 firing the game ball.

  The payout control unit 300 includes a CPU 301, a ROM 302, and a RAM 303. The CPU 301 performs a calculation process when controlling the payout of the payout ball. The ROM 302 stores programs executed by the CPU 301 and various data. A RAM 303 is used as a working memory for the CPU 301.

  The payout control unit 300 controls payout of the payout ball based on the command sent from the main control unit 100. Specifically, the payout control unit 300 acquires from the main control unit 100 a command for paying out a predetermined number of prize balls according to the place where the game ball has won. Then, the payout driving unit 311 is controlled so as to pay out the number of prize balls specified by the command. Here, the payout drive unit 311 is configured by a drive motor or the like that sends out a game ball from a game ball storage unit (ball tank).

  The effect control unit 400 includes a CPU 401, a ROM 402, a RAM 403, and an RTC (real time clock) 404. The CPU 401 performs a calculation process when controlling the effect. The ROM 402 stores programs executed by the CPU 401 and various data. The RAM 403 is used as a working memory for the CPU 401. The RTC 404 measures the current date and time.

  The production control unit 400 sets production contents based on data indicating the special symbol lottery result and the like sent from the main control unit 100. In addition, when the effect button 37 or the effect key 38 is pressed by the player, the effect control unit 400 may set the effect content according to the operation input or the detection result.

  The image sound control unit 500 includes a CPU 501, a ROM 502, and a RAM 503. The CPU 501 performs arithmetic processing when controlling the image and sound expressing the content of the effect. The ROM 502 stores programs executed by the CPU 501 and various data. The RAM 503 is used as a working memory for the CPU 501. Further, the image sound control unit 500 receives operation information (operation data) output from the effect button 37 and the effect key 38 in response to the operation of the effect button 37 and the effect key 38 by the player via the lamp control unit 600. When the acquired operation information is information acquired within an operation reception period to be described later, the operation information is valid operation information (that is, an effective operation has been performed) The operation information is transmitted to the effect control unit 400. Hereinafter, the operation information acquired by the image sound control unit 500 within the operation reception period and transmitted to the effect control unit 400 will be referred to as effective operation information. In the present embodiment, even if the operation information is acquired by the image sound control unit 500 within the operation reception period, the operation information may not be transmitted to the effect control unit 400. Details of this operation information will be described later. This will be described in the first embodiment.

  The image sound control unit 500 controls the image displayed on the image display unit 6 and the sound output from the speaker 35 based on the command sent from the effect control unit 400. Specifically, in the ROM 502 of the image sound control unit 500, a decorative symbol image for notifying a special symbol lottery result, an image of a character or item for displaying a notice effect or a pre-read notice effect, a special symbol lottery The image data for displaying on the image display unit 6 a reserved image indicating that the image is held, various background images, and the like are stored. The ROM 502 of the image sound control unit 500 stores various types of sound data such as music and sound output from the speaker 35 in synchronization with the image displayed on the image display unit 6 or independently of the displayed image. It is remembered. The CPU 501 of the image sound control unit 500 selects and reads out the data corresponding to the command sent from the effect control unit 400 from the image data and sound data stored in the ROM 502. The CPU 501 performs image processing for background image display, decorative symbol image display, character / item display, and the like using the read image data, and performs various processes corresponding to commands sent from the effect control unit 400. Perform production display. Then, the CPU 501 displays the image indicated by the image processed image data on the image display unit 6. In addition, the CPU 501 performs sound processing using the read sound data, and outputs the sound indicated by the sound processing sound data from the speaker 35.

  The lamp control unit 600 includes a CPU 601, a ROM 602, and a RAM 603. The CPU 601 performs arithmetic processing when controlling the light emission of the panel lamp 8, the frame lamp 36, the effect button 37, the effect key 38, and the operation of the movable accessory 7. The ROM 602 stores programs executed by the CPU 601 and various data. The RAM 603 is used as a working memory for the CPU 601.

  The lamp control unit 600 controls lighting / flashing of the panel lamp 8, the frame lamp 36, the effect button 37, and the effect key 38, the emission color, and the like based on commands sent from the effect control unit 400 and the image sound control unit 500. To do. The lamp control unit 600 controls the operation of the movable accessory 7 based on a command sent from the effect control unit 400 or the like. Specifically, in the ROM 602 of the lamp control unit 600, lighting / flashing pattern data for the panel lamp 8, the frame lamp 36, the production button 37, and the production key 38 according to the production content set by the production control unit 400 or the like. In addition, light emission color pattern data (light emission pattern data) is stored. The CPU 601 selects and reads out the light emission pattern data stored in the ROM 602 corresponding to the command sent from the effect control unit 400 or the like. The CPU 601 controls the light emission of the panel lamp 8, the frame lamp 36, the effect button 37, and the effect key 38 based on the read light emission pattern data. The ROM 602 stores operation pattern data of the movable accessory 7 corresponding to the contents of the effect set by the effect control unit 400 or the like. The CPU 601 selects and reads out the operation pattern data stored in the ROM 602 corresponding to the command sent from the effect control unit 400 or the like. Then, the CPU 601 controls the operation of the movable accessory 7 based on the read operation pattern data. When the effect button 37 moves up and down or rotates, the CPU 601 corresponds to a command sent from the effect control unit 400 or the like from the operation pattern data of the effect button 37 stored in the ROM 602. Is selected and read, and the operation of the effect button 37 is controlled based on the read operation pattern data.

  In addition, the lamp control unit 600 is connected with an effect button 37 and an effect key 38 operated by the player, and the lamp control unit 600 responds to the operation of the effect button 37 and the effect key 38 by the player. The operation information (operation data) output from the production key 38 is acquired, and the operation information is transmitted to the image sound control unit 500.

  The effect control unit 400 specifies the operation state of the effective operation on the effect button 37 and the effect key 38 based on the effective operation information of the effect button 37 and the effect key 38 transmitted from the image sound control unit 500. The content of the effect according to the operation state is determined, and execution of the effect of the effect content is instructed to the image sound control unit 500. Here, the operation state of the effect button 37 and the effect key 38 is information including what kind of operation is being performed (for example, long press of the effect button 37, repeated hitting, pressing of the left key of the effect key 38), and the like. It is. Therefore, for example, when the effect button 37 is operated by the player, the operation state of the effect button 37 detected by the lamp control unit 600 is transmitted to the image sound control unit 500, and an operation in which the above operation is effective (for example, operation If the operation is within the reception period), the operation state of the effect button 37 is transmitted to the effect control unit 400 as valid operation information, and the effect of the effect content determined by the effect control unit 400 based on this operation state is image acoustic control. Instructed by the unit 500. For this reason, the image sound control unit 500 can change the content of the effect based on the operation state of the effect button 37. If the above operation is not an effective operation (for example, an operation outside the operation reception period), the operation state of the effect button 37 is not transmitted to the effect control unit 400. In such a case, the image sound control unit 500 has operated the effect button 37 by causing the effect button 37 to emit light, for example, via the lamp control unit 600 based on the operation state of the effect button 37. It is suggested.

[Outline of gaming state in this embodiment]
Next, the gaming state of the gaming machine 1 in this embodiment will be described. The gaming state of the gaming machine 1 includes at least a high probability state, a low probability state, an electric support state, a non-electric support state, a short-time state, a non-short-time state, and a big hit gaming state. The low probability state is a gaming state in which the winning probability of the special symbol lottery is set to a normal low probability (for example, 1/200), and the high probability state is that the winning probability of the special symbol lottery is lower than the low probability state. The gaming state is set to a high probability (for example, 1/50). In the non-electric support state, the winning probability of the normal symbol lottery is a normal low probability (for example, 1/10), and even if the normal symbol lottery is won, the electric tulip 27 is short (for example, 0.10 seconds). Is a game state in which the release control is performed only once), and therefore, it is a game state in which it is difficult for a game ball to enter the second start port 22. In the electric support state, the winning probability of the normal symbol lottery is higher than the non-electric support state (for example, 10/10), and when the normal symbol lottery is won, the electric tulip 27 is long (for example, 2.00 seconds). 3), the electric tulip 27 is frequently opened for a long period of time, and it is easy for the game balls to enter the second start port 22 frequently (winning). A gaming state. The non-short-time state is a gaming state in which the execution time of the special symbol lottery is a normal predetermined time, and the short-time state is a gaming state in which the execution time of the special symbol lottery is shortened compared to the non-short-time state. The jackpot game state is a game state in which a jackpot game is executed in which a special symbol lottery is won (winning) and the jackpot 23 is opened. In the present embodiment, the electric support state and the short-time state are controlled at the same time. However, in this gaming state, the gaming ball is likely to win a prize at the second starting port 22, so that the gaming ball is mostly Many special symbol lotteries can be executed in a short time without decreasing. In the following, a gaming state that is controlled in a low-probability state, a non-electric support state, and a non-short-time state is referred to as a normal gaming state, and a gaming state that is controlled in a high-probability state, an electric support state, and a short-time state That's it. In this embodiment, there is no latent game state that is a gaming state controlled to a high-accuracy state, a non-electric support state, and a non-time-saving state, and if the special symbol lottery is won, the big hit game ends. The gaming state is controlled in the probability changing gaming state or the normal gaming state.

[Outline of the jackpot game in this embodiment]
Next, an outline of the jackpot game of the special symbol lottery in the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining an example of the jackpot breakdown of the special symbol lottery according to the present embodiment. (1) in FIG. 6 shows the jackpot breakdown of the special symbol lottery by winning the game ball to the first starting port 21, and (2) in FIG. 6 shows the special symbol lottery by winning the game ball to the second starting port 22. The breakdown of jackpot is shown. As shown in (1) of FIG. 6, the jackpot breakdown of the special symbol lottery by winning the game ball to the first starting port 21 is that the winning probability of the jackpot A is 70% and the winning probability of the jackpot B is 30%. is there. Further, as shown in FIG. 6B, the special symbol lottery breakdown of the special symbol lottery by winning the game ball to the second starting port 22 is that the winning probability of the big hit C is 50% and the winning probability of the big hit A is 20%. The winning probability of jackpot B is 30%. Below, with reference to (3) of FIG. 6, the jackpot game at the time of winning each jackpot AC is demonstrated.

  When the jackpot game that is executed when winning the jackpot A is started, after a predetermined opening time has elapsed, the big winning opening 23 is changed from the closed state to the open state (hereinafter simply referred to as “R”) There is a round game). In 1R, when 10 game balls are won in the big prize opening 23 or when the opening time is 29.5 seconds, the big prize opening 23 is changed from the open state to the closed state, and the 1R round game is ended. Then, after an interval period (for example, 2 seconds) between rounds is provided, the 2R round game is started after the grand prize opening 23 is opened as in the case of 1R, and the big prize opening 23 is closed. The 2R round game ends. Thereafter, similarly, a total of four round games are executed by opening and closing the special winning opening 23 across the interval period. Then, when the predetermined ending time has elapsed, the big hit game ends. Therefore, the player can obtain a total of about 500 prize balls during this jackpot game. Thereafter, the gaming state is controlled to the probability changing gaming state from the end of the big hit game until the next special symbol lottery is won (more precisely, until the special symbol lottery is executed 9999 times).

  When the big hit game executed when the big win B is won, after a predetermined opening time has elapsed, a total of four round games are executed by opening and closing the big prize opening 23 with an interval period in between. Then, when the predetermined ending time has elapsed, the big hit game ends. Therefore, the player can obtain a total of about 500 prize balls during this jackpot game. Thereafter, the gaming state is controlled to the normal gaming state after the big hit game is finished.

  When the big hit game executed when the big hit C is won is started, a total of 16 round games are executed by opening and closing the big prize opening 23 with an interval period between them after a predetermined opening time. Then, when the predetermined ending time has elapsed, the big hit game ends. Therefore, the player can obtain a total of about 2000 prize balls during this jackpot game. Thereafter, the gaming state is controlled to the probability changing gaming state from the end of the big hit game until the next special symbol lottery is won (more precisely, until the special symbol lottery is executed 9999 times).

  As described above, in the present embodiment, a plurality of types of jackpots are prepared, but if the jackpot B is won, after the jackpot game, the game is controlled in a non-short-time state (normal game state), that is, the player Therefore, the game is controlled in a game state that is not preferable (disadvantageous). For this reason, after the big hit game of the big hit B is finished, it is possible to prevent the player's interest from being reduced by executing a special production (for example, a production in a special mode different from normal).

  Next, a processing flow executed by the pachinko gaming machine 1 will be described.

[Main processing by main control unit 100]
First, the main process executed by the main control unit 100 will be described with reference to FIG. This main process is started when the power of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is turned on, and is continuously executed while the main control unit 100 is activated.

  In step S901 in FIG. 7, first, the CPU 101 waits, for example, 2000 ms, and the process proceeds to step S902. Although not shown, when the power of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is turned on, the CPU 401 of the effect control unit 400 can receive a signal from the main control unit 100 without performing standby processing. . That is, the CPU 401 of the effect control unit 400 is in a state where processing can be started before the CPU 101 of the main control unit 100.

  In step S902, the CPU 101 permits access to the RAM 103, and the process proceeds to step S903.

  In step S903, the CPU 101 determines whether or not a RAM clear switch (not shown) is “ON”. If the determination in step S903 is YES, the process proceeds to step S904. If the determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S907.

  In step S904, the CPU 101 clears the RAM. Here, the RAM clear is a well-known technique and will not be described in detail, but various information (for example, information indicating the gaming state) stored in the RAM 103 is set to a predetermined initial state. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S905.

  In step S905, the CPU 101 sets a work area when the RAM is cleared, and the process proceeds to step S906.

  In step S906, the CPU 101 performs initial setting of the peripheral portion. Here, the peripheral portion is the effect control unit 400, the payout control unit 300, or the like. Initial setting of the peripheral unit is performed by transmitting an initial setting command for instructing execution of the initial setting to each control unit. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S910.

  In step S907, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the backup flag is “ON”. Note that the backup flag is a flag that is turned on when the generation of backup data is normally completed when the power is turned off, and is a flag indicating that the backup data is valid in association with the generated backup data. If the determination in step S907 is YES, the process moves to step S908. If the determination is NO, the process moves to step S904.

  In step S908, the CPU 101 determines whether the checksum is normal. If the determination in step S908 is YES, the process proceeds to step S909. If the determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S904.

  In step S909, the CPU 101 executes a recovery process (see FIG. 9) described later, and the process proceeds to step S910.

  In step S910, the CPU 101 sets a cycle (for example, 4 ms) of a built-in CTC (timer counter). Note that the CPU 101 executes a timer interrupt process (see FIG. 10) described later using the period set here. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S911.

  In step S911, the CPU 101 executes a power shutdown monitoring process (see FIG. 8) described later, and the process proceeds to step S912.

  In step S912, the CPU 101 performs setting to prohibit interruption of the timer interrupt process, and the process proceeds to step S913.

  In step S913, the CPU 101 updates (counts up) various initial value random numbers, and the process proceeds to step S914. Here, the initial value random number is used to determine the start value of various random numbers (big hit random number, symbol random number, reach random number, variation pattern random number) counted up and updated in a timer interrupt process (see FIG. 10) described later. A plurality of initial value random numbers corresponding to various random numbers are prepared. The initial value random number includes a timer interrupt process (see FIG. 10) that occurs every predetermined CTC period (4 ms) and a remaining time (that is, a process time required for the timer interrupt process from the predetermined CTC period). The count-up is updated both in the main process (see FIG. 7) processed during the subtracted time, and after reaching the set maximum value (for example, 299), it returns to the minimum value (for example, 0) again. Further, since this remaining time varies depending on the processing status of the CPU 101, it is a random time, and the number of updates of the initial random number that is updated with the remaining time is also random. On the other hand, as will be described in detail later, since various other random numbers (big hit random numbers, design random numbers, reach random numbers, fluctuation pattern random numbers) are updated only by timer interrupt processing (see FIG. 10), initial value random numbers are random number update processing. The processing cycle is different. In this way, due to the difference in processing cycle, for example, even if the random number range of the initial value random number and the big hit random number is the same (for example, 0 to 299), the initial value random number acquired as the start value of the big hit random number The value is random every time. Therefore, it is possible to make it difficult to predict the timing at which the big hit random number value that generates the big hit is acquired.

  In step S914, the CPU 101 performs setting to permit interruption of the timer interrupt process, and the process returns to step S911. That is, the CPU 101 repeatedly executes the processes in steps S911 to S914.

[Power-off monitoring process by the main control unit 100]
FIG. 8 is a detailed flowchart of the power shutdown monitoring process in step S911 of FIG. In step S9111, the CPU 101 prohibits the interrupt process, and the process proceeds to step S9112.

  In step S9112, the CPU 101 determines whether the power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 1 is cut off based on whether a power cut-off signal is input from a power supply unit (not shown). If the determination in step S9112 is YES, the process moves to step S9114. If the determination is NO, the process moves to step S9113.

  In step S9113, the CPU 101 permits the interrupt process and ends the power shutdown monitoring process (the process moves to step S912 in FIG. 7).

  On the other hand, in step S9114, the CPU 101 clears the output port through which various information is input / output to / from the CPU 101, and the process proceeds to step S9115.

  In step S 9115, the CPU 101 creates backup data in the RAM 103 based on the current gaming state of the gaming machine 1, creates a checksum from the contents of the RAM 103, and stores the checksum in the RAM 103. In this process, the power supply voltage is set to “0” after detecting that the power supply voltage has started to decrease due to the power supply cutoff of the power supplied to the main control unit 100 (after “YES” is determined in step S9112). It is done during the period until it becomes. Through this process, game state information and the like immediately before the power is turned off are stored in the RAM 103. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S9116.

  In step S9116, the CPU 101 sets the backup flag to “ON”, and the process proceeds to step S9117.

  In step S9117, the CPU 101 prohibits access to the RAM 103 and ends the power-off monitoring process (the process moves to step S912 in FIG. 7).

[Restoration process by main control unit 100]
FIG. 9 is a detailed flowchart of the recovery process in step S909 of FIG. First, in step S9091 of FIG. 9, the CPU 101 sets a work area of the RAM 103 at the time of restoration, and the process proceeds to step S9092.

  In step S9092, the CPU 101 refers to the information in the RAM 103, confirms information regarding the gaming state at the time of power-off and the number of special symbol lotteries held, and sends a recovery notification command including the information to the effect control unit 400. Send. As described above, the CPU 101 transmits a recovery notification command indicating the power-off state to the effect control unit 400 in order to notify that the power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 1 has been recovered. By the processing in step S9092, the effect control unit 400 can check the gaming state before power-off and the like.

  In step S9093, the CPU 101 sets a peripheral part, and the process proceeds to step S9094.

  In step S9094, the CPU 101 sets the backup flag to “OFF” and ends the recovery process (the process moves to step S910 in FIG. 7).

[Timer interrupt processing of main control unit]
Next, a timer interrupt process executed in the main control unit 100 will be described. FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of timer interrupt processing performed by the main control unit 100. Hereinafter, timer interrupt processing performed in the main control unit 100 will be described with reference to FIG. The main control unit 100 repeatedly executes a series of processes shown in FIG. 10 at regular time intervals (for example, 4 milliseconds) during normal operation except for special cases such as when the power is turned on or when the power is turned off. Note that the processing performed by the main control unit 100 described based on the flowcharts of FIG. 10 and subsequent figures is executed based on a program stored in the ROM 102.

  First, in step S1, the CPU 101 of the main control unit 100 serves as a starting value for updating various random numbers such as jackpot random numbers, symbol random numbers, reach random numbers, and variation pattern random numbers, and counting up each random number. Random number update processing for updating each initial value random number is executed. Here, the big hit random number is a random number for determining whether or not a special symbol lottery is won or lost (that is, performing a special symbol lottery). The symbol random number is a random number for determining the type of jackpot when the special symbol lottery is won. The big hit random number and the design random number are random numbers used in the process of step S407 in FIG. The reach random number is a random number for determining whether or not a reach effect is performed when a special symbol lottery is lost. The variation pattern random number is a random number for determining the variation time (variation pattern) of the special symbol. Here, the variation time of the special symbol is equal to the execution time of the notification effect (variation effect) executed in synchronization with the variation of the special symbol. The reach random number and the variation pattern random number are used in the process of step S408 in FIG. In the random number update process of step S1, the big hit random number, the design random number, the reach random number, the variation pattern random number, etc. are each added and updated by one. That is, it is counted up. Each random number is acquired in the start port switch (SW) process in step S2 and the gate switch (SW) process in step S3, and is used in the special symbol process in step S4 and the normal symbol process in step S5 described later. Note that the counter that performs the processing of step S1 is typically a loop counter, and returns to 0 again after reaching the maximum value of the set random number (for example, 299 for the variation pattern random number) (that is, the circulation counter). To do). In addition, in the random number update process of step S1, each counter such as a big hit random number, a design random number, a reach random number, and a variation pattern random number is initialized to an initial value corresponding to each random number at that time when the loop counter counts once. A random number is acquired, and the loop counter is newly started using the initial random number as a start value. The random number ranges such as jackpot random numbers, design random numbers, reach random numbers, and fluctuation pattern random numbers may be set arbitrarily, but by setting each to a different range, the counter value (count) (Value) is preferably set so as not to synchronize.

  Next, in step S2, the CPU 101 monitors the state of the first start port switch 111a and the second start port switch 111b, and when one of the switches is turned on (the first start port switch 111a or the second start port switch 111b). When a game ball detection signal is output from the mouth switch 111b), a start opening switch that performs processing relating to the number of holdings U1 for the first special symbol lottery, the number of holdings U2 for the second special symbol lottery, and processing for obtaining various random numbers. Execute the process. Details of the start port switch process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  Next, in step S3, the CPU 101 monitors the state of the gate switch 113 and, based on the output signal from the gate switch 113, determines that the game ball has passed through the gate 25. Is determined to be less than the upper limit value (for example, 4), and if it is determined that the number of holds is less than the upper limit value, a gate switch process for acquiring a random number used in the normal symbol process in step S5 described later is executed. .

  Next, in step S4, the CPU 101 executes the first special symbol lottery or the second special symbol lottery, and after the special symbols are variably displayed on the first special symbol display 4a or the second special symbol display 4b, these are displayed. The stop symbol display process showing the lottery result of the above and the special symbol process for transmitting various commands to the effect control unit 400 are executed. This special symbol process will be described in detail later with reference to FIG.

  Next, in step S5, the CPU 101 executes a normal symbol process for determining whether or not the random number acquired in the gate switch process in step S3 matches a predetermined hit random number. Then, the CPU 101 stops and displays the normal symbol indicating the determination result after the normal symbol is variably displayed on the normal symbol display 4e. Specifically, the CPU 101 sets the normal symbol change time to be stopped and displayed after the normal symbol is variably displayed to 10 seconds in the non-time-short state and to 0.5 seconds in the time-short state. Further, the CPU 101 sets the probability that the normal symbol displayed on the normal symbol display 4e becomes a predetermined winning symbol (that is, the winning probability of the normal symbol lottery) is set to a low probability (1/10) in the non-short-time state. In the short-time state, the probability is increased to a high probability (10/10).

  Next, in step S6, when it is determined that the special symbol lottery is won in the special symbol processing in step S4 (when the big win is made), the CPU 101 controls the big prize opening / closing unit 115 to control the big prize opening 23. The player performs a predetermined opening / closing operation, and executes a big prize opening process for transmitting various commands related to the so-called big hit game effect to the effect control unit 400. By this processing, the big hit game (special game) is progressed, and the player can acquire a large amount of prize balls. This special winning opening process will be described in detail later with reference to FIGS. 17 and 18.

  Next, in step S7, the CPU 101 performs electric driving when the normal symbol displayed on the normal symbol display 4e by the normal symbol processing in step S5 is a predetermined winning symbol (that is, when the normal symbol lottery is won). An electric tulip process for operating the tulip 27 is executed. At that time, the CPU 101 controls the opening of the electric tulip 27 for a very short period (once for 0.10 seconds) in the non-electric support state, and the electric tulip 27 for a long period (three times for 2.00 seconds) in the electric support state. Open control. In addition, when the electric tulip 27 is controlled to be in the open state, a game ball can be won at the second start port 22, and when the game ball wins at the second start port 22, a second special symbol lottery is performed. Will be.

  Next, in step S <b> 8, the CPU 101 executes prize ball processing for managing the number of winning game balls and controlling the payout of prize balls according to the prize.

  Next, in step S9, the CPU 101 executes various commands and effects set in the RAM 103 by the start opening switch process in step S2, the special symbol process in step S4, the big winning opening process in step S6, the prize ball process in step S8, and the like. Output processing for outputting information necessary for the production control unit 400 or the payout control unit 300 is executed. The CPU 101 notifies each winning opening that a gaming ball has won each time the gaming ball wins the first starting opening 21, the second starting opening 22, the big winning opening 23, and the normal winning opening 24. Are set in the RAM 103, and the winning command is output to the effect control unit 400 or the payout control unit 300.

[Start-up switch processing]
FIG. 11 is an example of a detailed flowchart of the start port switch process in step S2 of FIG. Hereinafter, the start port switch process in step S2 of FIG. 10 will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, in step S201, the CPU 101 of the main control unit 100 wins a game ball in the first start port 21 based on the presence or absence of an output signal from the first start port switch 111a, and the first start port switch 111a is turned on. It is determined whether or not. If the determination in step S201 is YES, the process proceeds to step S202. If the determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S207.

  In step S202, the CPU 101 reads the upper limit value Umax1 (“4” in the present embodiment) of the number of first special symbol lotteries held from the ROM 102, and the number of retained U1 of the first special symbol lottery stored in the RAM 103 is the upper limit. It is determined whether or not the value is less than Umax1. If the determination in step S202 is YES, the process proceeds to step S203, and if this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S207.

  In step S <b> 203, the CPU 101 updates the value of the holding number U <b> 1 stored in the RAM 103 to a value obtained by adding one. Further, the CPU 101 sets a winning command in the RAM 103 for notifying the effect control unit 400 that a game ball has won the first starting port 21. This winning command is transmitted to the effect control unit 400 by the output process in step S9 of FIG. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S204.

  In step S204, the CPU 101 acquires a set of random numbers (big hit random number, symbol random number, reach random number, and variation pattern random number) used for the first special symbol lottery and the like, and each set of the acquired random numbers (game information) Are stored in the RAM 103 in chronological order. Each time the value of the holding number U1 of the first special symbol lottery is subtracted by 1 in the process of step S406 in FIG. Deleted one by one. From this, for example, when the value of the number of holdings U1 of the first special symbol lottery is “3”, the last three random number sets acquired by the process of the last three steps S204 are stored in the RAM 103 in time series order. It will be stored. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S205.

  In step S205, the CPU 101 performs a preliminary determination process. Specifically, the CPU 101 acquires a random number set such as a big hit random number obtained in the latest processing of step S204 and stored in the RAM 103 (that is, a random number set such as a big hit random number for the first special symbol lottery stored most recently. ) And whether or not the result of the first special symbol lottery using the jackpot random number is a jackpot based on whether or not the jackpot random number or the like matches a predetermined value or the like stored in the ROM 102, reach It is determined in advance whether or not to execute the production. That is, the determination necessary for executing the pre-reading notice effect and the hold change notice effect is determined in advance prior to the processing of steps S407 and S408 in FIG. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S206.

  In step S <b> 206, the CPU 101 sets a first hold number increase command for notifying that the hold number of the first special symbol lottery has increased by 1 in the RAM 103. Here, the first pending number increase command includes information (hereinafter referred to as “preliminary determination information”) indicating the result of the preliminary determination performed in the process of step S205. In addition, the 1st reservation number increase command containing this prior determination information is output by the output process of step S9 of FIG. The main control unit 100 notifies the effect control unit 400 before the change starts. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S207.

  In step S207, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the game ball has won the second start port 22 and the second start port switch 111b is turned on based on the presence / absence of an output signal from the second start port switch 111b. To do. If the determination in step S207 is yes, the process proceeds to step S208. If the determination is no, the process proceeds to step S3 (gate switch process) in FIG.

  In step S <b> 208, the CPU 101 reads the upper limit value Umax <b> 2 of the second special symbol lottery holding number from the ROM 102 (“4” in the present embodiment), and the second special symbol lottery holding number U <b> 2 stored in the RAM 103 is the upper limit. It is determined whether or not the value is less than Umax2. If the determination in step S208 is YES, the process proceeds to step S209, and if this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S3 (gate switch process) in FIG.

  In step S209, the CPU 101 updates the value of the holding number U2 stored in the RAM 103 to a value obtained by adding 1. Further, the CPU 101 sets a winning command in the RAM 103 for notifying the effect control unit 400 that a game ball has won the second starting port 22. This winning command is transmitted to the effect control unit 400 by the output process in step S9 of FIG. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S210.

  In step S210, the CPU 101 acquires a set of random numbers (big hit random number, symbol random number, reach random number, and variation pattern random number) used for the second special symbol lottery and the like, They are stored in the RAM 103 in order. Each time the value of the second special symbol lottery holding number U2 is decremented by 1 in the process of step S404 in FIG. 12 to be described later, the random number set stored in the RAM 103 is one set in order from the earliest stored time. Deleted one by one. For this reason, for example, when the value of the holding number U2 of the second special symbol lottery is “3”, the last three random number sets acquired by the processing of the last three steps S210 are stored in the RAM 103 in time series order. It will be stored. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S211.

  In step S211, the CPU 101 performs a preliminary determination process. Specifically, the CPU 101 acquires a random number set such as a big hit random number acquired in the process of the latest step S210 and stored in the RAM 103 (that is, a random number set such as a big hit random number for the second special symbol lottery stored most recently. ) And whether or not the result of the second special symbol lottery using the jackpot random number is a jackpot based on whether or not the jackpot random number or the like matches a predetermined value or the like stored in the ROM 102, reach It is determined in advance whether or not to execute the production. That is, the determination necessary for executing the pre-reading notice effect and the hold change notice effect is determined in advance prior to the processing of steps S407 and S408 in FIG. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S212.

  In step S <b> 212, the CPU 101 sets a second hold number increase command for notifying that the hold number of the second special symbol lottery has increased by 1 in the RAM 103. Here, the second pending number increase command includes information (preliminary determination information) indicating the result of the preliminary determination performed in the process of step S211. In addition, the 2nd reservation number increase command containing this prior determination information is output by the output process of step S9 of FIG. 10, and the lottery result with respect to the 2nd special symbol lottery hold is the symbol in the 2nd special symbol lottery. The main control unit 100 notifies the effect control unit 400 before the change starts. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S3 (gate switch process) in FIG.

[Special symbol processing]
FIG. 12 is an example of a detailed flowchart of the special symbol process in step S4 of FIG. Below, with reference to FIG. 12, the special symbol process in step S4 of FIG. 10 is demonstrated.

  First, in step S401, the CPU 101 of the main control unit 100 determines that the current state of the gaming machine 1 is a big hit game (a big hit game state) based on information stored in the RAM 103 (typically information by a flag). It is determined whether or not. That is, it is determined whether or not the big hit game (special game) that is executed when the special symbol lottery is won. If the determination in step S401 is YES, the process proceeds to step S5 (normal symbol process) in FIG. 10, and if this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S402.

  In step S402, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the special symbol change display is being performed by the first special symbol display 4a or the second special symbol display 4b. If the determination in step S402 is yes, the process proceeds to step S411. If the determination is no, the process proceeds to step S403.

  In step S403, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the holding number U2 stored in the RAM 103 is 1 or more (that is, whether or not the second special symbol lottery is held). If the determination in step S403 is YES, the process proceeds to step S404. If the determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S405.

  In step S <b> 404, the CPU 101 updates the hold number U <b> 2 stored in the RAM 103 to a value obtained by subtracting one. At that time, the CPU 101 reads the random number set stored in the RAM 103 and acquired in step S210 of FIG. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S407.

  On the other hand, in step S405, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the holding number U1 stored in the RAM 103 is 1 or more (that is, whether or not the first special symbol lottery is held). If the determination in step S405 is YES, the process proceeds to step S406. If this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S415 assuming that there is no special symbol lottery to be executed.

  In step S <b> 406, the CPU 101 updates the hold number U <b> 1 stored in the RAM 103 to a value obtained by subtracting one. At that time, the CPU 101 reads out the random number set stored in the RAM 103 and stored in the step S204 of FIG. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S407.

  The second special symbol lottery is executed in preference to the first special symbol lottery by the processing of steps S403 to S406 described above.

  In step S407, the CPU 101 executes a big hit determination process for determining whether the special symbol lottery is a big win or a loss. Specifically, when executing the process of step S407 following the process of step S404, the CPU 101 matches the jackpot random number read from the RAM 103 in the process of step S404 with the jackpot winning value stored in the ROM 102. Whether the result of the second special symbol lottery is a big hit or a loss is determined based on whether or not to do so. On the other hand, when executing the process of step S407 following the process of step S406, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the jackpot random number read from the RAM 103 in the process of step S406 matches the jackpot winning value stored in the ROM 102. Based on this, it is determined whether the result of the first special symbol lottery is a big hit or a loss. When the result of the special symbol lottery is determined to be lost, the CPU 101 sets a lost symbol indicating that the special symbol lottery has been lost in the RAM 103 as a special symbol stop symbol in the setting information. On the other hand, when the CPU 101 determines that the result of the special symbol lottery is a big hit, which of the predetermined values stored in the ROM 102 matches the symbol random number read from the RAM 103 together with the big hit random number used for this determination? Based on this, the type of jackpot of this time is determined. As can be seen from FIG. 6, in this embodiment, the expected value of the number of round games (number of rounds) executed when the second special symbol lottery is won is determined when the first special symbol lottery is won. Greater than expected number of rounds to be executed. That is, the profit degree when winning the second special symbol lottery is larger than the profit degree when winning the first special symbol lottery. The degree of profit is not limited to the number of winning prize balls depending on the number of rounds as described above. For example, in the gaming state controlled after the big hit (probability of being controlled in the high probability state after the big hit, the number of short times) There may be. Then, the CPU 101 sets, in the RAM 103, information on the jackpot symbol representing the jackpot and the type of jackpot as information on the stop symbol of the special symbol in the setting information. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S408.

[Variation pattern selection processing]
In step S408, the CPU 101 executes variation pattern selection processing. Specifically, in step S408, in the normal gaming state (non-time saving state), the CPU 101 uses the variation pattern determination tables HT1-1 and HT1-2 shown in FIGS. State), the fluctuation pattern is determined (selected) for each special symbol lottery using the fluctuation pattern determination tables HT2-1 and HT2-2 shown in FIGS. Here, this variation pattern is a special symbol variation time which is a time from when the special symbol is variably displayed on the display 4 until it is stopped and displayed, and this special symbol variation time is synchronized with the execution time of the notification effect. It is the same time as the execution time of the notification effect. Hereinafter, the variation pattern determination tables HT1-1, HT1-2, HT2-1, and HT2-2 may be simply referred to as HT1-1, HT1-2, HT2-1, and HT2-2.

  First, a case where a variation pattern is selected using HT1-1 and HT1-2 shown in FIGS. 13 and 14 in the normal gaming state (non-time-short state) will be described. FIG. 13 is a table used for determining the variation pattern when the first special symbol lottery is executed in the process of step S407 in the normal gaming state (non-time saving state). FIG. 14 is a table used for determining a variation pattern when the second special symbol lottery is executed in the process of step S407 in the normal gaming state (non-time reduction state).

[Non-time-short state / variation pattern selection process in the first special symbol lottery]
Hereinafter, the determination of the variation pattern in the case where the first special symbol lottery is executed in the process of step S407 in the normal gaming state (non-time-short state) will be described with reference to FIG.

  In step S408, when the CPU 101 determines in the jackpot determination process of step S407 that the result of the first special symbol lottery is a jackpot, the CPU 101 determines a variation pattern (special symbol variation time) based on the variation pattern random number. Specifically, the CPU 101 determines that the variation pattern random number (any one of 0 to 299) read from the RAM 103 together with the big hit random number used in the big hit determination process in step S407 is the “big hit” of HT1-1. The variation pattern (special symbol variation time) is determined based on which of the random number values assigned to each variation pattern of the portion of (). For example, when the variation pattern random number read from the RAM 103 together with the big hit random number used in the big hit determination process in step S407 is “78”, the CPU 101 sets the fluctuation pattern “90.03” of the “big hit” portion of HT1-1. Since it matches the random value “75 to 124” assigned to “second”, “90.03 seconds” is determined as the variation pattern. Here, as indicated by HT1-1, the fluctuation pattern “15.01 seconds”, “40.01 seconds”, “40.02 seconds”, “40.03 seconds”, “90. “01 seconds”, “90.02 seconds”, “90.03 seconds”, “90.04 seconds”, and “90.05 seconds” indicate the types of effect patterns of the notification effect “per reach” and “third SP”, respectively. "Per hit", "per second SP", "per first SP", "per fifth SPSP", "per fourth SPSP", "per third SPSP", "per second SPSP", and "per first SPSP". Further, “per reach” is a type that hits big after reach is established, and “per first SP” to “per third SP” are types that hit big after finally developing to SP reach, and “per first SPSP”. ~ "Per fifth SPSP" is a type that hits big after finally developing to SPSP reach.

  Reach (reach effect) is specified in combination with other symbols that have already been stopped when a decorative symbol that is stopped last among a plurality of decorative symbols is stopped and displayed in a specific symbol. It is an effect that expects to win a big hit by matching the pattern pattern of, and typically, the decorative pattern on the right side and the left side are stopped at the same pattern (for example, 7), This is an effect that is variably displayed with the expectation that the decorative symbol stops at the same symbol (for example, 7) (that is, it becomes a doublet 777). The SP reach is generally referred to as super reach or special reach, and is an effect that further expects to win more than reach, for example, an effect of a moving image in which a hero character plays a mini game. In addition, SPSP reach is generally called super super reach or special special reach, and is an effect that further expects a big hit than SP reach production. For example, it is a production of a moving image in which a hero character fights against an enemy character. is there.

  In step S408, if the CPU 101 determines that the result of the first special symbol lottery is lost in the jackpot determination process in step S407, the number of first special symbol lottery (U1), the reach random number, and the fluctuation A variation pattern (special symbol variation time) is determined based on the pattern random number.

  Specifically, the CPU 101 determines the reach random number (0) read from the RAM 103 together with the jackpot random number used in the jackpot determination process in step S407 when the number of the first special symbol lottery is “1” or “2”. Or any one of 99 to 99) is included in the reach random number value range “0 to 69” of the retained number “1, 2” of the “losing” of HT1-1. 99 ”is determined.

  Then, when the read reach random number is included in the reach random number value range “0 to 69”, the CPU 101 reads the fluctuation pattern random number (0) read from the RAM 103 together with the big hit random number used in the big hit determination process in step S407. ˜299) is included in the fluctuation pattern random value range “0-59” or in the fluctuation pattern random value range “60-299”. Then, when the fluctuation pattern random number is included in the fluctuation pattern random value range “0 to 59”, the CPU 101 determines “8.00 seconds” as the fluctuation pattern, and the fluctuation pattern random number is changed to the fluctuation pattern random value range “ In the case of “60 to 299”, “13.50 seconds” is determined as the variation pattern. Here, as indicated by HT1-1, the variation patterns “8.00 seconds” and “13.50 seconds” both correspond to the effect pattern type “immediately lost”. “Immediately lost” is a type of production pattern that immediately loses without reaching reach.

  On the other hand, when the read reach random number is included in the reach random number value range “70 to 99”, the CPU 101 reads the variation pattern random number (0) read from the RAM 103 together with the big hit random number used in the big hit determination process in step S407. ˜299) is included in the variation pattern random value range assigned to each variation pattern in the above reach random value range “70 to 99” of HT1-1. Then, the variation pattern (special symbol variation time) is determined. For example, when the variation pattern random number read from the RAM 103 together with the jackpot random number used in the jackpot determination process in step S407 is “260”, the CPU 101 determines the variation pattern random value assigned to the variation pattern “40.05 seconds”. Since it is included in the range “256 to 271”, “40.05 seconds” is determined as the variation pattern. Here, as indicated by HT1-1, the fluctuation patterns “15.02 seconds”, “40.04 seconds”, “40.05 seconds” of the above-described reach random number value range “70 to 99” of HT1-1. ”,“ 40.06 seconds ”,“ 90.06 seconds ”,“ 90.07 seconds ”,“ 90.08 seconds ”,“ 90.09 seconds ”, and“ 90.10 seconds ” Production pattern types “Leach Loss”, “3rd SP Loss”, “2nd SP Loss”, “1st SP Loss”, “5th SPSP Loss”, “4th SPSP Loss”, “3rd SPSP Loss”, “2nd SPSP Loss” and This corresponds to “first SPSP loss”. Further, “Leach Loss” is a type that loses after the reach is established, and “First SP Loss” to “3rd SP Loss” are types that eventually lose to SP reach, and “First SPSP Loss” “Fifth SPSP Loss” is a type that loses after finally developing into SPSP reach.

  In addition, when the number of the first special symbol lottery is “3”, the CPU 101 basically performs the variation pattern in the same manner as when the number of the first special symbol lottery is “1” or “2”. To decide. However, when the number of holdings of the first special symbol lottery is “3”, as shown in HT1-1, the CPU 101 has the number of holdings of the first special symbol lottery being “1” or “2”. On the other hand, the reach random value range “0-69” is replaced with “0-79”, the reach random value range “70-99” is replaced with “80-99”, and the fluctuation pattern “8.00 seconds”. The variable pattern random value range “0 to 59” assigned to “0” to “209” is replaced with “0 to 209”, and the fluctuation pattern random value range “60 to 299” assigned to the fluctuation pattern “13.50 seconds” is changed to “210 to 299”. The variation pattern is determined by the random value range replaced with “”.

  In addition, when the number of holds for the first special symbol lottery is “4”, the CPU 101 basically performs the variation pattern similarly to the case where the number of holds for the first special symbol lottery is “1” or “2”. To decide. However, when the number of the first special symbol lottery is “4”, the CPU 101, as shown in HT1-1, when the number of the first special symbol lottery is “1” or “2”. On the other hand, the reach random value range “0-69” is replaced with “0-84”, the reach random value range “70-99” is replaced with “85-99”, and the fluctuation pattern “8.00 seconds” The variable pattern random value range “0 to 59” allocated to the variable pattern is replaced with “210 to 269”, and the random pattern value range “60 to 299” allocated to the variable pattern “13.50 seconds” is converted to “270 to 299”. In addition, according to the random value range of the content to which the variation pattern “3.00 seconds” to which the variation pattern random value range “0 to 209” is assigned in correspondence with the production pattern type “immediately lost” is added, Deciding the fluctuation pattern To.

  As described above with reference to the variation pattern determination table HT1-1 shown in FIG. 13, when the first special symbol lottery is lost in the normal gaming state (non-time saving state), the number of first special symbol lottery holds The smaller the variation is, the easier it is to select the variation pattern with reach, and when the variation pattern without reach is selected, the smaller the number of the first special symbol lottery is, the easier the variation pattern is selected.

[Big hit reliability]
Here, the jackpot reliability (expectation for jackpot) will be described. An effect with a high jackpot reliability is an effect that is highly likely to be notified of a big hit when the effect is executed, and an effect with a low jackpot reliability is a notification of a big hit when the effect is executed. It is a production that is unlikely to be performed. Hereinafter, it demonstrates concretely using HT1-1 shown in FIG. As can be seen from the “big hit” portion of HT1-1, in the case of big hit, “per reach”, “per third SP”, “per second SP”, “per first SP”, “per fifth SPSP”, “ The variation pattern random value range increases in the order of “per fourth SPSP”, “per third SPSP”, “per second SPSP”, and “per first SPSP” (partially the same). On the other hand, as can be seen from the “losing” portion of HT1-1, in the case of losing, “reach losing”, “third SP losing”, “second SP losing”, “first SP losing”, “fifth SPSP losing”. , The variation pattern random value range becomes smaller in the order of “fourth SPSP loss”, “third SPSP loss”, “second SPSP loss”, “first SPSP loss” (partially the same). As can be seen from the above, the performance that is easy to execute in the case of a big hit and difficult to execute in the case of a loss is high in the reliability of the big hit, while the effect that is difficult to execute in the case of big hit and is easy to be executed in the case of a loss has a big hit reliability. Low. That is, “reach effect”, “third SP reach effect”, “second SP reach effect”, “first SP reach effect”, “fifth SPSP reach effect”, “fourth SPSP reach effect”, “third SPSP reach effect”, “ The jackpot reliability increases in the order of “second SPSP reach production” and “first SPSP reach production”.

[Non-time-short state / variation pattern selection process in the second special symbol lottery]
Hereinafter, the determination of the variation pattern when the second special symbol lottery is executed in the process of step S407 in the normal gaming state (non-time-short state) will be described with reference to FIG. In step S408, the CPU 101 determines a variation pattern by performing basically the same processing as the variation pattern determination processing described with reference to FIG. However, the CPU 101 performed processing for the first special symbol lottery using HT1-1 in the variation pattern determination processing described with reference to FIG. 13, whereas in the variation pattern determination processing illustrated in FIG. It is different in that processing is performed on the second special symbol lottery using HT1-2 shown in FIG. Here, HT1-2 shown in FIG. 14 differs from HT1-1 shown in FIG. 13 in that “the number of first special symbol lottery hold” is replaced with “the number of second special symbol lottery hold”. Only different. That is, while the variation pattern determination process described with reference to FIG. 13 considers the number of first special symbol lottery reservations, the variation pattern determination process considers the second special symbol lottery retention number. The It should be noted that in the non-time-saving state, since it is difficult for a game ball to win the second starting port 22, it is rare (rare) to execute the second special symbol lottery. For this reason, when the second special symbol lottery is executed in the non-time-short state, in order to suggest this rare feeling, the fluctuation pattern is longer than when the first special symbol lottery is executed in the non-time-short state. May be easily selected. Specifically, for example, in HT1-2, the reach random number value range that is determined to be reachable in each portion of the “losing” hold number “1, 2,” “3”, “4” is HT1. By setting it to be larger than the corresponding portion of −1, it is possible that the reach is more easily executed than HT1-1, and as a result, a long-time variation pattern may be easily selected.

[Time-short state / variation pattern selection process in the first special symbol lottery]
Hereinafter, the determination of the variation pattern in the case where the first special symbol lottery is executed in the process of step S407 in the probability variation gaming state (short time state) will be described with reference to FIG. In step S408, the CPU 101 determines a variation pattern by performing basically the same processing as the variation pattern determination processing described with reference to FIG. However, the CPU 101 performs processing for the first special symbol lottery using HT1-1 in the variation pattern determination processing described with reference to FIG. 13, whereas in the variation pattern determination processing illustrated in FIG. It differs by the point which processes with respect to a 1st special symbol lottery using HT2-1 shown. Here, HT2-1 shown in FIG. 15 is related to the number of holdings of the first special symbol lottery when “no reach” is selected by “reach random number” in “losing” with respect to HT1-1 shown in FIG. The difference is that the variation pattern “13.50 seconds” (corresponding to immediate loss) is selected.

[Time-short state / variation pattern selection process in the second special symbol lottery]
Hereinafter, the determination of the variation pattern when the second special symbol lottery is executed in the process of step S407 in the probability variation gaming state (short time state) will be described with reference to FIG. In step S408, the CPU 101 determines a variation pattern by performing basically the same processing as the variation pattern determination processing described with reference to FIG. However, the CPU 101 performed processing for the first special symbol lottery using HT1-1 in the variation pattern determination processing described with reference to FIG. 13, whereas in the variation pattern determination processing illustrated in FIG. It is different in that processing is performed for the second special symbol lottery using HT2-2 shown in FIG. Here, as shown in FIG. 16, HT2-2 replaces HT1-1 shown in FIG. 13 with “the number of holdings for the first special symbol lottery” replaced with “the number of holdings for the second special symbol lottery”. ing. That is, while the variation pattern determination process described with reference to FIG. 13 considers the number of first special symbol lottery reservations, the variation pattern determination process considers the second special symbol lottery retention number. The Further, as shown in FIG. 16, in HT2-2, when the number of holdings in the second special symbol lottery “1” in “losing” is “1” and no reach is selected by the reach random number, the variation pattern “13” is uniformly set. .50 seconds "is determined. Also, as shown in FIG. 16, in HT2-2, when no reach is selected by the reach random number in the case of the holding number “2-4” of the second special symbol lottery in “losing”, the fluctuation pattern random value The variation pattern “2.00 seconds” is determined in the range “0 to 239”, the variation pattern “4.00 seconds” is determined in the variation pattern random value range “240 to 269”, and the variation pattern random value range “270 to 270”. In “299”, the fluctuation pattern “10.00 seconds” is determined.

  Here, as described in the processing in steps S403 to S406, in this embodiment, the second special symbol lottery hold is digested in preference to the first special symbol lottery hold. Further, in the probability variation gaming state (short time state), as described in the processing in steps S5 and S7 in FIG. 10, the electric tulip 27 is frequently opened for a long period of time, and the game ball is frequently won at the second starting port 22. Therefore, the second special symbol lottery is executed frequently and continuously. Further, as described in the processing in step S407, the second special symbol lottery by winning the game ball to the second starting port 22 is more than the first special symbol lottery by winning the game ball to the first starting port 21. However, the profit level when winning the lottery (big hit) is large. Therefore, conversely, if the first special symbol lottery is executed in the probability variation gaming state (short time state), there is a high possibility that the player will win a big hit with a small profit level of the player. I can say that. In the present embodiment, as described above using HT2-2 of FIG. 16, in the probability variation gaming state (short time state), when the number of second special symbol lottery hold is 2 to 4 and there is no reach While it is easy to select a short-time fluctuation pattern (2.00 seconds, 4.00 seconds) and the second special symbol lottery is suspended at high speed, 2 When the number of special symbol lotteries held is 1 and there is no reach, be sure to select a long-term fluctuation pattern (13.50 seconds) to control the first special symbol lottery that is relatively unfavorable to the player. ing. Furthermore, in the present embodiment, as described above with reference to HT2-1 in FIG. 15, in the probability variation gaming state (time-short state), it is assumed that the first special symbol lottery that is relatively disadvantageous to the player is executed. However, in all of the first special symbol lottery holding numbers 1 to 4, when there is no reach, a long-term fluctuation pattern (13.50 seconds) must be selected, and a game ball is placed in the second starting port 22. Control is performed so as to earn time for the second special symbol lottery that is relatively advantageous to the player by winning a prize.

  Information on the variation pattern determined in step S408 as described above (that is, it can be said that the execution time of the notification effect: the information about the type of the effect pattern of the notification effect) is set in the RAM 103 as setting information. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S409.

  In step S409, the CPU 101 generates a notification effect start command including the setting information set by the jackpot determination process in step S407 and the setting information set by the variation pattern selection process in step S408, and sets the notification effect start command in the RAM 103. Here, the notification effect start command is a command for instructing the effect control unit 400 to start the notification effect by the image display unit 6, the speaker 35, and the like. The setting information included in the notification effect start command includes information indicating which of the first special symbol lottery and the second special symbol lottery has been executed. Further, the CPU 101 sets a gaming state notification command indicating the current gaming state (for example, a probable variation gaming state) in the RAM 103. The notification effect start command and the gaming state notification command described above are transmitted to the effect control unit 400 by the output process in step S9 of FIG. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S410.

  In step S410, the CPU 101 changes the special symbol by the first special symbol display 4a or the second special symbol display 4b based on the setting information included in the notification effect start command set in the process of step S409. Start displaying. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S411.

  In step S411, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the special symbol variation time indicated by the variation pattern set in the variation pattern selection processing in step S408 has elapsed since the start of the special symbol variation display in step S410. If the determination in step S411 is YES, the process proceeds to step S412. If the determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S5 (ordinary symbol process) in FIG.

  In step S <b> 412, the CPU 101 sets a notification effect stop command instructing the end of the notification effect by the image display unit 6 or the like in the RAM 103. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S413. Note that the notification effect stop command set in step S412 is transmitted to the effect control unit 400 by the output process in step S9 of FIG.

  In step S413, the CPU 101 ends the special symbol variation display by the first special symbol display 4a or the second special symbol display 4b started in the process of step S410, and displays the stopped symbol. At this time, the CPU 101 sets a symbol determination command in the RAM 103. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S414.

  In step S414, the CPU 101 executes a stop process. Specifically, when the CPU 101 determines that the big hit is determined in step S407, the information stored in the RAM 103 (typically information based on a flag) is in the big hit game (the big hit game state). And an opening command for instructing the start of the big hit game effect is set in the RAM 103. Note that the process in step S414 is terminated when a predetermined fixed time (for example, 0.5 seconds) elapses, and then the process proceeds to step S5 (normal symbol process) in FIG. For this reason, the timing at which the special symbol processing shown in FIG. 12 is executed again by the next timer interrupt processing has passed a fixed time (0.5 seconds) after the special symbol variation display is completed in the processing of step S413. Timing (strictly speaking, an interrupt timing that arrives only after a fixed time has elapsed). Note that the opening command described above is output in step S9 of FIG. 10 when a predetermined fixed time (0.5 seconds) elapses after the process of step S414 is started (after the process of step S413 is completed). The process is transmitted to the effect control unit 400, and the big hit game effect is started.

  In step S415, the CPU 101 determines whether or not a customer waiting command and a gaming state notification command indicating the current gaming state have already been transmitted in the process of step 416 (described later). Here, the customer waiting command is the time when the specified fixed time (0.5 seconds) has elapsed since the processing in step S414 was started (in other words, the special symbol variation display was terminated in the processing in step S413). This is a command that is sent when there is no special symbol lottery hold at the time 0.5 seconds have passed since the notification effect that informs the lottery result of the special symbol lottery is not executed (so-called customer waiting state) ) Is a command to notify that If the determination in step S415 is YES, the process proceeds to step S5 (normal symbol process) in FIG. 10, and if this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S416.

  In step S <b> 416, the CPU 101 sets a customer waiting command and a gaming state notification command in the RAM 103. The customer waiting command and the gaming state notification command are transmitted to the effect control unit 400 by the output process in step S9 in FIG. 10, and a predetermined stop effect (for example, an effect of displaying a decorative symbol stop) is started based on the customer waiting command. Is done. When a predetermined time (for example, 90 seconds) elapses after the stop effect described above is started, the customer waiting effect is started. Here, the customer waiting effect is, for example, an effect in which a video related to the content (animation, story, etc.) that is the subject of the gaming machine 1 is displayed on the image display unit 6, for example, a predetermined effect ( For example, the image display unit 6 displays a part of the reach effect). Thereafter, the processing moves to step S5 (normal symbol processing) in FIG.

[Large winning prize processing]
17 and 18 are an example of a detailed flowchart of the special winning a prize opening process in step S6 of FIG. Hereinafter, the special winning opening process in step S6 of FIG. 10 will be described with reference to FIGS.

  First, in step S601, the CPU 101 of the main control unit 100 determines whether or not the state of the gaming machine 1 is a big hit game based on information stored in the RAM 103 (typically, information based on a flag). judge. If the determination in step S601 is YES, the process proceeds to step S602. If the determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S7 (electric tulip process) in FIG.

  In step S <b> 602, the CPU 101 determines based on the information stored in the RAM 103 whether or not the state of the gaming machine 1 is a jackpot game opening effect. If the determination in step S602 is YES, the process proceeds to step S603, and if this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S609.

  In step S <b> 603, the CPU 101 determines whether or not a set opening time that defines the execution time of the opening effect has elapsed. If the determination in step S603 is YES, the process proceeds to step S604. If the determination is NO, the opening effect has not ended, and the process proceeds to step S7 (electric tulip process) in FIG.

  In step S <b> 604, the CPU 101 sets the total number of rounds Rmax for the jackpot game and the operation pattern of the jackpot 23 for the jackpot game, and sets the setting information in the RAM 103. Specifically, the CPU 101 sets the number of rounds included in the jackpot game (Rmax: “16” in this embodiment) and the operation pattern of the jackpot 23 during the jackpot game, and sets the setting information in the RAM 103. To do. By the process of step S604, the total number of rounds Rmax of the jackpot game, the interval time between rounds in the jackpot game, the set ending time that is the time for performing the ending effect at the end of the jackpot game, and the like are set. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S605.

  In step S <b> 605, the CPU 101 resets the winning number C of game balls to the big winning opening 23 stored in the RAM 103 to “0”. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S606.

  In step S <b> 606, the CPU 101 updates the round number R of the big hit game stored in the RAM 103 to a value obtained by adding one. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S607.

  In step S <b> 607, the CPU 101 controls the special winning opening / closing unit 115 to start the opening control of the special winning opening 23. By this process, the big hit game round (round game) is started and the opening operation (one opening operation) of the big winning opening 23 is started. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S608.

  In step S <b> 608, the CPU 101 sets a round start notification command for notifying a round start (round game start) in the RAM 103. This round start notification command is transmitted to the effect control unit 400 by the output process of step S9 in FIG. 10, and the round effect is started. The round start notification command includes information indicating the total number of rounds Rmax set in step S604 and information indicating the current number of rounds R updated by the process in step S606. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S612.

  In step S609, the CPU 101 determines based on the information stored in the RAM 103 whether or not the gaming machine 1 is in the big hit game interval. If the determination in step S609 is yes, the process proceeds to step S610. If the determination is no, the process proceeds to step S611.

  In step S610, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the set interval time in the jackpot game set in the process in step S604 has elapsed since the big winning opening 23 was closed at the end of the previous round in the jackpot game. To do. If the determination in step S610 is YES, it is time to start the next round in the jackpot game, so the process moves to step S605. If this determination is NO, the process moves to step S612.

  In step S <b> 611, the CPU 101 determines whether the state of the gaming machine 1 is executing the jackpot game ending effect based on the information stored in the RAM 103. If the determination in step S611 is YES, the process proceeds to step S621 in FIG. 18, and if this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S612.

  In step S612, the CPU 101 determines that the state of the gaming machine 1 is in the big win game round, and based on the output signal from the big prize opening switch 114, whether or not the game ball has won the big prize opening 23. Determine whether. If the determination in step S612 is YES, the process moves to step S613. If the determination is NO, the process moves to step S6131.

  In step S <b> 613, the CPU 101 determines that a winning of game balls to the big winning opening 23 has been detected, and updates the winning number C of game balls stored in the RAM 103 to a value obtained by adding one. The processing in step S613 is executed each time a game ball wins the big winning opening 23, so that the total number of winning game balls (winning number C) won in the big winning opening 23 during one round is accumulated in the RAM 103. It will be done. In addition, the CPU 101 sets a winning command for notifying the effect control unit 400 that a game ball has won the big winning opening 23 in the RAM 103. The winning command is transmitted to the effect control unit 400 by the output process in step S9 of FIG. 10, so that the effect control unit 400 receives the winning every time the game ball wins the big winning opening 23 during one round. The number C (that is, the number of winnings in one round) is notified, and the winning process instruction in step S125 of FIG. 21 is executed based on the notification information. In addition, a winning validity period (for example, a predetermined period during the round and after the end of the round) in which the winning of the game ball to the grand prize opening 23 is considered to be valid (that is, normal winning) is set in advance. The winning command is transmitted when a winning of a game ball is detected during the winning validity period. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S6131.

  In step S 6131, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the state of the gaming machine 1 is executing a big win game round effect based on the information stored in the RAM 103. If the determination in step S6131 is YES, the process proceeds to step S614. If the determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S7 (electric tulip process) in FIG.

  In step S614, the CPU 101 determines whether or not a specified opening control time (29.5 seconds in the present embodiment) has elapsed since the opening control of the special winning opening 23 was started in the process of step S607. If the determination in step S614 is yes, the process moves to step S616. If the determination is no, the process moves to step S615.

  In step S615, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the number C of winning game balls in the current round has reached the upper limit number of gaming balls Cmax (“10” in the present embodiment) that defines the timing at which the big winning opening 23 is closed. Determine. If the determination in step S615 is YES, the process proceeds to step S616, and if this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S7 (electric tulip process) in FIG.

  In step S616, the CPU 101 controls the special winning opening / closing unit 115 to end the opening control of the special winning opening 23 started in step S607. In this way, the CPU 101 counts the total number of game balls (winning number C) detected by the big prize opening switch 114 until 29.5 seconds elapse after the big prize opening 23 is opened in each round during the big hit game. ) Has reached 10 (Cmax), or 29.5 seconds have passed without winning 10 game balls since opening the grand prize opening 23, and the big prize opening 23 is closed. . Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S617.

  In step S617, the CPU 101 sets a round end notification command for notifying the end of round (round game end) in the RAM 103. This round start notification command is transmitted to the effect control unit 400 by the output process of step S9 in FIG. 10, and the round effect is ended. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S618.

  In step S618, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the current round number R stored in the RAM 103 has reached the maximum round number Rmax of the big hit game set in the process of step S604. If the determination in step S618 is YES, the process proceeds to step S619 in FIG. 18, and if this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S7 (electric tulip process) in FIG.

  In step S619 in FIG. 18, the CPU 101 resets the round number R stored in the RAM 103 to “0”. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S620.

  In step S620, the CPU 101 sets an ending command for instructing the effect control unit 400 to execute the ending effect of the big hit game in the RAM 103. The ending command set in this process is transmitted to the effect control unit 400 in step S9 (output process) in FIG. As the ending command, a command corresponding to the jackpot symbol and the gaming state controlled after the end of the jackpot game is transmitted. Control the production of (after). Specifically, in the case of an ending command corresponding to a jackpot symbol indicating a jackpot (for example, jackpot A shown in FIG. 6) that is controlled in the probability change gaming state after the jackpot, the game is controlled to the probability change gaming state after the jackpot game ends. When the ending command indicating that the effect is transmitted, the effect control unit 400 executes the effect in the effect mode indicating the probability variation game state after the jackpot game effect is ended based on the ending command. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S621.

  In step S621, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the set ending time set in the process of step S604 in FIG. 17 has elapsed since the ending command was set in the RAM 103 in step S620. If the determination in step S621 is YES, the process proceeds to step S622. If this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S612 in FIG.

  In step S622, the CPU 101 ends the jackpot game being executed. Specifically, the CPU 101 cancels the setting information (typically, information based on a flag) indicating that a big hit game is stored in the RAM 103, and ends the big hit game. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S623.

  In step S623, the CPU 101 executes a game state setting process. Specifically, when the jackpot game is ended in step S622, the CPU 101 switches the gaming state according to the type of jackpot (the jackpot symbol) this time (that is, the winning probability setting of the special symbol lottery and the electric tulip 27) Switch open settings). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S7 (electric tulip process) in FIG.

[Production control processing by production control unit]
FIG. 19 is a flowchart illustrating an example of timer interrupt processing performed by the effect control unit 400. Below, with reference to FIG. 19, the timer interruption process performed in the production | presentation control part 400 is demonstrated. The effect control unit 400 repeatedly executes a series of processes shown in FIG. 19 at regular time intervals (for example, 4 milliseconds) in a normal operation except for special cases such as when the power is turned on and when the power is turned off. In addition, the process performed in the production | presentation control part 400 demonstrated based on the flowchart after FIG. 19 is performed based on the program memorize | stored in ROM402.

  First, in step S11, the CPU 401 of the effect control unit 400 receives various commands output from the main control unit 100 by the output process of step S9 in FIG. 10, sets the effect contents according to the received command, A command reception process for setting various commands in the RAM 403 for instructing the image sound control unit 500 or the like to execute the effect of the set effect content is executed. This command reception process will be described in detail later with reference to FIGS.

  Next, in step S12, the CPU 401 transmits the operation information (operation data) output from the effect button 37 and the effect key 38 by the player's operation from the image sound control unit 500 based on the valid operation information. In accordance with the effective operation information to be performed, the production content is set, and the production input control process for setting various commands in the RAM 403 for instructing the image sound control unit 500 to execute the production with the set content is executed. The effect input control process will be described in detail later with reference to FIG.

  Next, in step S13, the CPU 401 executes output processing for outputting various commands set in the RAM 403 to the image sound control unit 500 or the like in the processing in steps S11 and S12. By this process, various effects determined to be executed in the processes of step S11 and step S12 are executed by the image display unit 6, the speaker 35, the panel lamp 8, and the like by the execution control of the image sound control unit 500 and the like. .

  Note that each time the timer interrupt process described above is executed, the CPU 401 performs a random number update process for updating various effect random numbers used for the effect. In this random number update process as well, a loop counter is typically used as in the random number update process in step S1 of FIG. After reaching, it returns to 0 again (that is, it circulates). Also, in this random number update process, each effect random number counter updates the initial value (the value that is the starting point of circulation) at random once it circulates. As a result, the counter value (count value) can be prevented from synchronizing between these effect random numbers.

[Command reception processing]
20 and 21 are examples of detailed flowcharts of the command reception process in step S11 of FIG. Hereinafter, the command reception process in step S11 of FIG. 19 will be described with reference to FIG. 20 and FIG.

  First, in step S111, the CPU 401 of the effect control unit 400 determines whether or not a hold increase command (first hold number increase command or second hold number increase command) is received from the main control unit 100 (FIG. 11). (See steps S206 and S212). If the determination in step S111 is YES, the process proceeds to step S112. If the determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S114.

  In step S112, the CPU 401 instructs the image sound control unit 500 in response to the hold increase command received in the process of step S111, and displays a hold image additional display process indicating the hold of the special symbol lottery on the image display unit 6. Then, the hold image display process for changing the hold image to the prefetch display mode is performed. The displayed hold image is deleted in order when the notification effect is started based on the process of step S115 described later. Also, the instruction to the image sound control unit 500 is performed by setting a command in the RAM 403. In addition, when the CPU 401 receives the first hold number increase command, the RAM 403 causes the RAM 403 to store one piece of data (hold data) indicating the hold of the first special symbol lottery in time series, while the second hold number When the increase command is received, the RAM 403 stores one piece of data (holding data) indicating the holding of the second special symbol lottery in time series order. At that time, the CPU 401 extracts pre-determination information included in the hold increase command, includes it in the above-described hold data, and stores it in the RAM 403. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S113.

  In step S113, the CPU 401 performs a prefetch notice effect setting process. Specifically, the CPU 401 stores the special symbol lottery hold number (the number of hold data) stored in the RAM 403 more than 2 including the hold added in step S112, and stores it in the RAM 403 most recently. Whether or not to execute the pre-reading notice effect is determined by lottery or the like based on the prior determination information (that is, included in the latest pending data). For example, the CPU 401 determines that the prior determination information indicates “big hit”, “losing” and “reach effect” (reach effect), or “losing” and “reach effect”. In each of the cases indicating “None” (no reach reach), a prefetch random number is acquired, and when the prefetch random number matches a predetermined prefetch winning value, it is determined to perform the prefetch notice effect. It should be noted that different numbers may be set for the pre-reading winning values depending on whether the pre-determination information is “big hit”, “losing with reach”, or “losing without reach”. Specifically, by setting the number of prefetch winning values in the case of “big hit” larger than the number of prefetching winning values in the case of “losing with reach”, a prefetching notice effect is easily performed in the case of “big hit”. It may be a thing. If it is determined to execute the pre-reading notice effect, the CPU 401 performs a pre-reading notice to be executed by lottery or the like from a number of pre-reading notice effect patterns that satisfy the conditions of the prior determination information (such as the condition of whether or not a big hit). Set the contents of the production. That is, as the pre-reading notice effect, what kind of notice effect is performed in each notification effect is set. Note that the pre-reading notice effect is a notice effect that suggests the possibility of a big hit over a plurality of notification effects, for example. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S114.

  In step S114, the CPU 401 determines whether or not the notification effect start command and the gaming state notification command set in step S409 of FIG. 12 have been received. If the determination in step S114 is YES, the process proceeds to step S115, and if this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S116.

  In step S115, the CPU 401 sets the effect content of the notification effect by the image display unit 6 or the like according to the notification effect start command received in the process of step S114, and executes the notification effect of the set content. A notification effect setting process for instructing and starting 500 or the like is performed. Here, the notification effect (variation effect) is an effect that is executed in the image display unit 6 or the like according to the variation display of the special symbol and suggests the result of the special symbol lottery. For example, the decorative symbol is variably displayed. This is an effect in which the result of the special symbol lottery is notified when the decorative symbol that is variably displayed is stopped and displayed. Note that an instruction to the image sound control unit 500 or the like is performed by setting a command in the RAM 403.

[Notification effect setting processing]
Here, with reference to FIG. 22, the notification effect setting process by the effect control unit 400 will be described. FIG. 22 is a detailed flowchart showing an example of the notification effect setting process in step S115 of FIG.

  First, in step S701, the CPU 401 of the effect control unit 400 determines the effect mode for the notification effect to be executed this time. Here, the effect mode is an effect mode in the notification effect, and in this embodiment, as the effect mode in the probability variation game state, the red background effect mode with the notification effect as a red background is executed, and the effect in the normal game state As a mode, a blue background effect mode in which the notification effect is a blue background or a green background effect mode in which the notification effect is a green background is executed. Specifically, when the gaming state notification command received in step S114 of FIG. 20 indicates the probability variation gaming state, the CPU 401 determines the effect mode in the notification effect to be executed this time as the red background effect mode. On the other hand, when the gaming state notification command indicates the normal gaming state, the CPU 401 determines the effect mode in the notification effect to be executed this time to the blue background effect mode or the green background effect mode by lottery, for example. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S702.

  In step S702, the CPU 401 determines an effect pattern to be executed in the current notification effect based on the setting information included in the notification effect start command received in step S114 of FIG. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 13 to FIG. 16, when the variation pattern (special symbol variation time) indicated by the setting information is “90.05 seconds”, the CPU 401 executes the first SPSP reach and hits the jackpot. An effect pattern (per 1st SPSP) to be notified is determined, and when the variation pattern indicated by the setting information is “90.04 seconds”, an effect pattern (per 2nd SPSP) to be executed by executing up to the second SPSP reach is determined. When the variation pattern indicated by the setting information is “90.03 seconds”, the effect pattern (per third SPSP) that is executed up to the third SPSP reach is determined and the variation pattern indicated by the setting information is “90.02”. In the case of “second”, an effect pattern (per 4th SPSP) is determined by executing up to the fourth SPSP reach, and the variation pattern indicated by the setting information is In the case of “90.01 seconds”, the effect pattern (per 5th SPSP) is determined by executing up to the fifth SPSP reach, and if the variation pattern indicated by the setting information is “40.03 seconds”, the first SP reach is determined. Until the second SP reach is executed and the effect pattern (second SP) is executed when the variation pattern indicated by the setting information is “40.02 seconds”. If the variation pattern indicated by the setting information is “40.01 seconds”, the effect pattern (per third SP) to be executed by performing up to the third SP reach to determine the big hit is determined, and the variation pattern indicated by the setting information Is “15.01 seconds”, an effect pattern (per reach) is determined by performing up to reach and informing the big hit. In addition, when the variation pattern indicated by the setting information is “90.10 seconds”, the CPU 401 determines an effect pattern (first SPSP loss) that is executed up to the first SPSP reach and notifies the loss, and the variation pattern indicated by the setting information is “ In the case of “90.09 seconds”, the effect pattern (second SPSP loss) is determined by executing up to the second SPSP reach, and when the variation pattern indicated by the setting information is “90.08 seconds”, the third SPSP reach is determined. Until the fourth SPSP reach is executed when the variation pattern indicated by the setting information is “90.07 seconds” (fourth SPSP). If the fluctuation pattern indicated by the setting information is “90.06 seconds”, the actual value up to the fifth SPSP reach is Then, the effect pattern to be notified of the loss (fifth SPSP loss) is determined, and when the variation pattern indicated by the setting information is “40.06 seconds”, the effect pattern to be notified by executing the first SP reach (first SP loss) When the variation pattern indicated by the setting information is “40.05 seconds”, the effect pattern (second SP loss) that is executed by performing up to the second SP reach is notified, and the variation pattern indicated by the setting information is “ In the case of “40.04 seconds”, the effect pattern (third SP loss) to be notified by executing until the third SP reach is determined, and when the variation pattern indicated by the setting information is “15.02 seconds”, the reach is executed. Then, the effect pattern (reach loss) to be notified of the loss is determined, and if the fluctuation pattern indicated by the setting information is “13.50 seconds” or less, the reach is not executed and To determine the effect pattern (the immediate loss) to record the broadcast. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S703.

  In step S703, the CPU 401 determines the detailed contents (scenario) of the effect based on the effect pattern determined in step S702. Specifically, the CPU 401 determines an effect (reach effect or immediate lose effect) to be finally executed based on the effect pattern determined in step S702, but as a scenario until the final effect is executed. Then, what kind of notice effect is to be configured is determined based on the effect random number or the like. Note that the notice effect is a variety of effects that are executed before or during the effect determined based on the effect pattern. For example, the decorative design is displayed in a variable manner. Pseudo-ream effects, reach eye establishment effects in which the decorative pattern is in a reach state, cut-in effects for notifying reliability during reach effects, operation-responsive effects according to operations of the effect buttons 37, and the like. Further, the table for inquiring the extracted effect random numbers differs according to the effect pattern determined in step S702 (for example, the notice effect that increases the player's expectation as the reliability of the determined effect pattern is higher). By referring to a table that is easily executed, the notice effect that is configured differs according to the effect pattern (that is, according to the variation pattern). Further, when the CPU 401 decides to execute the operation corresponding effect as the notice effect, the type of the operation corresponding effect table to be referred to according to the operation of the effect button 37 based on the effect pattern (for example, FIG. T1 or T2) is determined and the information is updated and stored in the RAM 403. The details of the operation corresponding effect and the details of the operation corresponding effect table will be described later. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S704.

  In step S704, the CPU 401 instructs the image sound control unit 500 and the like to execute the notification effect of the effect content determined in step S703. Thereafter, the notification effect setting process ends, and the process proceeds to step S116 in FIG.

  Returning to FIG. 20, in step S116, the CPU 401 determines whether or not the notification effect stop command set in the process of step S412 in FIG. 12 has been received. If the determination in step S116 is YES, the process proceeds to step S117. If the determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S120 in FIG.

  In step S117, the CPU 401 instructs the image sound control unit 500 or the like to end the notification effect started to be executed in the process of step S115, and finally stops all the decorative symbols that have been variably displayed (confirmed). Stop the display) and inform the effect of the special symbol lottery. Note that an instruction to the image sound control unit 500 or the like is performed by setting a command in the RAM 403. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S120 in FIG.

  In step S120 in FIG. 21, the CPU 401 determines whether or not the opening command set in the stopping process in step S414 in FIG. 12 has been received. If the determination in step S120 is yes, the process proceeds to step S121. If the determination is no, the process proceeds to step S122.

  In step S121, the CPU 401 issues an opening effect instruction. Specifically, the CPU 401 instructs the image sound control unit 500 to start the opening effect of the big hit game effect. Here, the opening effect process executed by the image sound control unit 500 that has received an instruction from the effect control unit 400 will be described with reference to FIG.

[Opening effect processing]
In step S1210 of FIG. 23, the CPU 501 of the image sound control unit 500 that has received an instruction from the effect control unit 400 is based on the opening command received via the effect control unit 400. It is determined whether or not it is a so-called first hit. If the determination in step S1210 is YES, the process moves to step S1211. If the determination is NO, the process moves to step S1212.

  In step S <b> 1211, the CPU 501 deletes the history information stored in the RAM 503. By the way, the CPU 501 has, for example, the number of prize balls paid out based on the game ball winnings to the first starting port 21, the second starting port 22, the normal winning port 24, etc. in the normal gaming state, and the big winning port in the big hit gaming state. It stores history information such as the number of prize balls paid out based on the game ball winning to 23 etc., the number of jackpots. Since the history information is erased by the process of step S1211, the payout is made based on the game ball winning to the big winning opening 23 or the like after the opening effect is started (that is, after the big hit game is started). The number of the awarded balls is newly counted. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S1212.

  In step S <b> 1212, the CPU 501 stores the big hit history in the RAM 503. Specifically, the CPU 501 adds 1 to the value of the jackpot number Wc stored in the RAM 503 and updates the RAM 503 as history information. As a result of this processing, the number of consecutive big hits Wc is stored in the RAM 503 as history information. Note that the jackpot number Wc is set to 0 as an initial value, and is reset to 0 by the processing of step S1211 described above. However, as a reset condition, the gaming state is controlled to the normal gaming state after the jackpot game is over. It is good also as what is reset to 0 on the condition. Further, as the jackpot history, in addition to the jackpot number Wc described above, information indicating the type of jackpot (any one of jackpots A to C shown in FIG. 6) may be stored in the RAM 503. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S1213.

  In step S1213, the CPU 501 starts an opening effect. Here, the opening effect is an effect for notifying the start of the big hit game, and is typically an image effect that prompts the player to launch a game ball toward the big prize opening 23. Then, the CPU 501 ends the opening effect process.

  Returning to FIG. 21, in step S122, the CPU 401 determines whether or not the round start notification command set in the process of step S608 of FIG. 19 has been received. If the determination in step S122 is YES, the process proceeds to step S123, and if this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S124.

  In step S123, the CPU 401 issues a round effect start instruction. Specifically, the CPU 401 instructs the image sound control unit 500 to start a round effect process of a big hit game effect. Here, the round effect process executed by the image sound control unit 500 that has received an instruction from the effect control unit 400 will be described with reference to FIG.

[Round effect processing]
In step S1230 of FIG. 24, the CPU 501 of the image sound control unit 500 that has received an instruction from the effect control unit 400 displays information indicating the number of hits Wc stored in the RAM 503 as the big hit history on the image display unit 6. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S1231.

  In step S1231, the CPU 501 displays the current round number on the image display unit 6 based on information indicating the current round number R included in the round start notification command received via the effect control unit 400. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S1232.

  In step S1232, the CPU 501 executes a round effect. Here, the round effect is an effect executed during the round game of the big hit game, for example, an effect by an introduction image of a character related to the theme of the gaming machine. Then, the CPU 501 ends the round effect process.

  Returning to FIG. 21, in step S124, the CPU 401 determines whether or not a winning command set in the processing of step S613 in FIG. 19 or the like and output in the output processing of step S9 in FIG. 10 has been received. If the determination in step S124 is YES, the process proceeds to step S125, and if this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S126.

  In step S125, the CPU 401 issues a winning process instruction. Specifically, the CPU 401 instructs the image sound control unit 500 to start a winning process. Here, the winning process executed by the image sound control unit 500 in response to the instruction from the effect control unit 400 will be described with reference to FIG.

[Winning process]
In step S1250 of FIG. 25, the CPU 501 of the image sound control unit 500 that has received an instruction from the effect control unit 400, based on the winning command received via the effect control unit 400, each winning port (first start port 21). The number of winning game balls to the second starting port 22, the big winning port 23, and the normal winning port 24) is counted up and stored in the RAM 503. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S1251.

  In step S1251, when the CPU 501 receives a winning command based on a game ball winning at the big winning opening 23 (that is, when one gaming ball wins at the big winning opening 23), the number of winning balls corresponding to the big winning opening 23 is reached. “13” is added to the total number T of prize balls stored in the RAM 503 to be updated. The award ball total number T is set to 0 as an initial value, and is reset to 0 by the process of step S1211 described above. However, as a reset condition, the gaming state is controlled to the normal gaming state after the big hit game is finished. It may be reset to 0 on condition that As a result of the processing of step S1251, the total number T of winning balls acquired during the big hit is stored in the RAM 503 as the big hit history. In this embodiment, the total number T of winning balls is calculated by adding the number of winning balls paid out based on the game ball winning to the big winning opening 23. Not only the game ball winnings but also the number of winning balls paid out based on the game ball winnings to other winning ports may be added together. For example, when a winning command corresponding to a game ball winning to the first starting port 21 or the second starting port 22 is received, the first starting port is added by adding the number of winning balls corresponding to the winning to the total number T of winning balls. It is also possible to add together the number of prize balls that have been paid out based on the game ball winning to 21 or the second starting port 22. In addition, when a winning command corresponding to a game ball winning at the normal winning opening 24 is received, the number of winning balls corresponding to the winning is added to the total number T of winning balls, so that the gaming ball winning at the normal winning opening 24 is based. It is also possible to add together the number of prize balls that have been paid out. That is, the total number T of the winning balls is added in combination with any of the number of winning balls paid out based on the game ball winnings to the first starting port 21, the second starting port 22, and the normal winning port 24. All may be added. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S1252.

  In step S1252, the CPU 501 displays information indicating the total number T of prize balls updated in the RAM 503 by the process in step S1251 on the image display unit 6. Thus, the image display unit 6 displays the total number T of prize balls updated every time a game ball wins the big prize opening 23 during the round game. Then, the CPU 501 ends the winning process.

  Returning to FIG. 21, in step S126, the CPU 401 determines whether or not the round end notification command set in the process of step S617 of FIG. 17 has been received. If the determination in step S126 is YES, the process proceeds to step S127, and if this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S128.

  In step S127, the CPU 401 instructs the image sound control unit 500 or the like to end the round effect of the big hit game effect. Note that an instruction to the image sound control unit 500 or the like is performed by setting a command in the RAM 403. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S128.

  In step S128, the CPU 401 determines whether or not the ending command set in the process of step S620 in FIG. 18 has been received. If the determination in step S128 is YES, the process proceeds to step S129, and if this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S130.

  In step S129, the CPU 401 issues an ending effect instruction. Specifically, the CPU 401 instructs the image sound control unit 500 to start the ending effect of the big hit game effect. Here, the ending effect process executed by the image sound control unit 500 that has received an instruction from the effect control unit 400 will be described with reference to FIG.

[Ending production process]
In step S1290 of FIG. 26, the CPU 501 of the image sound control unit 500 that has received an instruction from the effect control unit 400 executes an ending effect. Here, the ending effect is an effect of notifying the end of the big hit game, and is typically an effect of displaying the mark of the manufacturer of the gaming machine 1. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S1291.

  In step S1291, based on the ending command, the CPU 501 displays an image of a mode effect (for example, a mode effect indicating that the game state is a probable game state) that is executed after the ending effect (that is, after the end of the jackpot game effect). This is executed in advance in the lower layer of the ending effect displayed in the part 6. Specifically, the ending command is transmitted based on the jackpot symbol (for example, jackpot A shown in FIG. 6) and includes information on the mode performance after the jackpot game ends (in other words, after the jackpot game ends). Since the ending command corresponding to the effect state is transmitted), the CPU 501 knows the mode effect after the end of the big hit game before receiving the game state notification command transmitted with the customer waiting command or the notification effect start command. be able to. For this reason, the CPU 501 executes the mode effect corresponding to each gaming state in advance before the customer waiting command or the notification effect start command is transmitted, so that the mode is immediately set at the timing when the ending effect ends. Production can be started. Then, the CPU 501 ends the ending effect.

  Returning to FIG. 21, in step S130, the CPU 401 determines whether or not the customer waiting command and the gaming state notification command set in the process of step S416 of FIG. 12 have been received. If the determination in step S130 is YES, the process proceeds to step S131. If this determination is NO, the command reception process is terminated, and the process proceeds to step S12 in FIG.

  In step S131, the CPU 401 instructs the image sound control unit 500 to start the customer waiting process based on the customer waiting command and the gaming state notification command received in step S130. Then, the command reception process is terminated, and the process proceeds to step S12 in FIG. Note that the customer waiting process is a process that is started when the so-called customer waiting state is entered, and the CPU 501 of the image sound control unit 500 that is instructed to start the customer waiting process issues, for example, an instruction to start a notification effect. This customer waiting process is executed until it is received, and the customer waiting process is terminated by receiving a notification production start instruction. However, if the CPU 501 is notified of information indicating that the game ball has passed through the gate 25 or information indicating that the game ball has been won in the normal winning opening 24, the CPU 501 continues without waiting for the customer. To do. In addition, the CPU 501 of the image sound control unit 500 instructed to start the customer waiting process displays a predetermined customer waiting screen on the image display unit 6. Here, the customer waiting screen is the specified fixed time (0.5 seconds) after the fact that all the decorative symbols that have been variably displayed are completely stopped and the result of the special symbol lottery is reported to be lost This is a stop screen that is displayed when there is no next notification effect to be executed at the time of display (that is, when there is no hold), and is a screen indicating that the notification effect is not being executed. The customer waiting screen is typically a screen in which an image in which a decorative symbol is completely stopped and displayed at the end of the notification effect is taken over and displayed, but indicates that the notification effect is not executed. However, the present invention is not limited to this typical example. Note that the CPU 501 starts a demonstration effect when no instruction for another effect is received from the CPU 401 when a predetermined time (for example, 90 seconds) elapses after the display of the above-described waiting screen is started. Here, the demonstration effect is, for example, an effect of displaying a video related to the content (animation, story, etc.) that is the subject of the gaming machine 1 for a predetermined time (for example, a playback time of 60 seconds). The effect suggests that the game has been interrupted or ended, and the occurrence of image sticking (ghost image) on the image display unit 6 is prevented.

[Direction input control processing]
FIG. 27 is an example of a detailed flowchart of the effect input control process in step S12 of FIG. Below, with reference to FIG. 27, the effect input control process of step S12 of FIG. 19 is demonstrated.

  First, in step S <b> 1201, the CPU 401 determines whether or not the operation information (valid operation information) transmitted from the image sound control unit 500 is received based on the operation on the effect button 37 within the operation reception period. To do. Here, the operation reception period is a period during which an operation on the effect button 37 is received, and an operation corresponding effect according to the operation of the effect button 37 can be executed during the operation reception period. That is, the player can operate the effect button 37 at any time, but it can be said that the period during which the operation corresponding effect according to the operation can be executed is the operation reception period. In other words, the operation during the operation reception period is not performed. On the other hand, it can be said that the operation outside the operation reception period is an invalid operation that is not reflected in the production while it is an effective operation that can be reflected in the production. The operation-corresponding effect may be any effect that is executed in response to the player's operation on the effect button 37, but in this embodiment, it is executed during the SP reach, and the SPSP reach is performed. It functions as an effect that suggests whether or not to develop. Specifically, in the operation-corresponding effect, a meter image MI (see FIG. 33 described later) is displayed on the image display unit 6, and the display mode of the meter image MI changes according to the operation of the effect button 37 (specifically Is an effect in which the meter value changes), and it is suggested that when the meter value of the meter image MI reaches the maximum value (for example, 10), SPSP reach is developed. Further, during the operation reception period, a gauge image GI (see FIG. 33 described later) indicating that the operation reception period is being performed is displayed on the image display unit 6 under the control of the image sound control unit 500 illustrated in FIG. 29 described later. Is displayed. In other words, the gauge image GI functions as a suggestion effect that suggests that an operation for the effect button 37 by the player is being accepted. In the present embodiment, as an example, the valid operation information described above includes, as information indicating that the effect button 37 has been pressed, information on the number of consecutive hits indicating how many times the button has been pressed during the operation reception period. In addition, information indicating the display mode of the current operation corresponding effect (specifically, the meter value of the meter image MI shown in FIG. 33) is included. If the determination in step S1201 is YES, the process proceeds to step S1202. If this determination is NO, the effect input control process is terminated, and the process proceeds to step S13 in FIG.

  In step S1202, the CPU 401 performs the operation corresponding effect based on the number of times of repeated hits included in the received valid operation information and the information indicating the display mode of the current operation corresponding effect (meter value of the meter image MI shown in FIG. 33). The effect content (specifically, whether or not to increase the meter value of the meter image MI shown in FIG. 33, etc.) is determined. More specifically, the CPU 401 corresponds to the operation corresponding to the information of the type of the operation corresponding effect table stored in the RAM 403 in the process of step S703 of FIG. 22 from the plurality of operation corresponding effect tables stored in the ROM 402. With reference to the effect table (for example, T1 or T2 shown in FIG. 28), the effect content of the operation-related effect is determined based on the information on the number of consecutive hits and the information indicating the display mode of the current operation-related effect. Details of the operation corresponding effect table will be described later with reference to FIG. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S1203.

  In step S1203, the CPU 401 instructs the image sound control unit 500 or the like to execute the operation corresponding effect determined in step S1204. Note that an instruction to the image sound control unit 500 or the like is performed by setting a command in the RAM 403. Thereafter, the effect input control process is terminated, and the process proceeds to step S13 in FIG.

[Operation-related production table]
Next, the operation corresponding effect table will be described with reference to FIG. In the present embodiment, a plurality of operation-corresponding effect tables are prepared according to the effect patterns, but two operation-corresponding effect tables T1 and T2 will be described as an example. The operation corresponding effect table T1 shown in (1) of FIG. 28 is an example of a table that is referred to when an effect pattern that develops to SPSP reach is determined via SP reach. The operation corresponding effect table T2 shown is an example of a table that is referred to when an effect pattern that develops to SP reach but not SPSP reach is determined. In the present embodiment, the first SPSP reach is an SPSP reach effect that develops via the SP reach (first SP reach or the like), and the operation corresponding effect table T1 shown in (1) of FIG. 28 shows a table that is referred to when an effect pattern per first SPSP loss or first SPSP is determined (that is, when the first SPSP reach is executed), and the operation corresponding effect table T2 shown in (2) of FIG. As an example, a table referred to when the first SP loss or the production pattern per first SP is determined (that is, when the first SP reach is executed) is shown. In addition, the operation corresponding effect is executed during the SP reach, and the effect content of the operation corresponding effect becomes a specific success display mode according to the player's operation (specifically, the meter value of the meter image MI is the maximum value). 10)), it is suggested that the SPSP reach will be developed. On the other hand, if the production contents of the operation-related effects do not become the specific success display mode described above, the SP reach will end without developing to the SPSP reach. Is suggested. For this reason, when the first SPSP or the first SPSP loss is determined as the effect pattern, the operation corresponding effect table T1 in which the effect content of the operation corresponding effect can be a specific success display mode is referred to, and the first SP loss is indicated as the effect pattern. Alternatively, when the first SP is determined, the operation corresponding effect table T2 in which the effect contents of the operation corresponding effect cannot be in a specific success display mode is referred to. In the present embodiment, when the first SP is determined as the production pattern, it is suggested that the specific success display mode does not occur and the SPSP reach is not developed. It is notified that it is a big hit by operating. Hereinafter, the operation correspondence effect tables T1 and T2 will be described in detail.

  The operation corresponding effects tables T1 and T2 are the operation corresponding effects to be executed next based on the number of consecutive hits included in the valid operation information and the display mode of the current operation corresponding effects (specifically, the current meter value of the meter image MI). This is a reference table for determining the production contents (how much the meter value of the meter image MI is to be increased). Specifically, in the operation correspondence effect tables T1 and T2 shown in FIG. 28, for example, the notation “60% (+1)” means that the effect content for increasing the meter value by 1 is determined at a rate of 60%. This means that the content of the production that does not change the meter value is determined at the remaining ratio (that is, 40%) that is not described. That is, in the table shown in FIG. 28, only the ratio at which the production contents for increasing the meter value are determined and the number of increments of the meter value at that time are described. The contents of the production not to be changed are determined. In addition, the ratio by which said effect content is determined is set based on effect random numbers. Specifically, for example, among the production random numbers 1 to 100, 1 to 60 are associated with the production content that increases the meter value by 1, and 61 to 100 are associated with the production content that does not change the meter value. Production content that increases the meter value by 1 at a rate of 60% when one production random number is determined by lottery from 1 to 100 production random numbers and production content associated with the production random number is decided Will be determined. Further, in the present embodiment, the meter value of the meter image MI is an integer value from the initial value 0 to the maximum value 10, and that the meter value reaches 10 which is the maximum value indicates that the effect content of the operation corresponding effect is specified. It means that it has become a successful display mode, that is, it develops to the subsequent production (SPSP reach). For this reason, when the meter value reaches 10, a success notification effect (for example, a character image of “success” is displayed to notify that a specific success display mode has been reached, in order to suggest that it will develop into a subsequent effect. Display effect) is executed, and even if the effect button 37 is operated any more, an operation corresponding effect according to the operation is not executed. Therefore, when the operation-related effect is displayed in a specific success display mode (when the meter value reaches 10), the operation reception period substantially ends, and the gauge suggests that the operation reception period is in progress. The display of the image GI and the light emission of the effect button 37 are finished.

  As shown in (1) of FIG. 28, in the operation corresponding effect table T1, when the number of consecutive hits is the first to fourth times (that is, the pressing operation on the first to fourth effect buttons 37 during the operation reception period). When the current meter value is 0, the production content is determined to increase the meter value by 1 at a rate of 60%. When the current meter value is 1, the meter value is increased by 1 at a rate of 50%. When the current meter value is 2, when the current meter value is 2, the effect content for increasing the meter value by 1 is determined at a rate of 40%, and when the current meter value is 3, the rate is 30%. The contents of the effect to increase the meter value by 1 are determined. In other words, the production contents for increasing the meter value are easily determined as the current meter value is small.

  In the operation corresponding effect table T1, if the number of consecutive hits is the fifth (that is, the pressing operation on the fifth effect button 37 during the operation reception period), 100% if the current meter value is zero. When the production content is determined to increase the meter value by 2 (that is, the meter value becomes 2) and the current meter value is 1, the meter value is increased by 1 at a rate of 100% (that is, the meter When the production content is determined (when the value is 2) and the current meter value is 2, the production content is determined to increase the meter value by 1 at a rate of 50%, and when the current meter value is 3 The effect content for increasing the meter value by 1 at a rate of 40% is determined. When the current meter value is 4, the effect content for increasing the meter value by 1 at a rate of 30% is determined. That is, even when the number of repeated hits is the fifth, the content of the effect that increases the meter value is easily determined as the current meter value is small, but the content of the effect that the meter value is always 2 or more is determined. Therefore, after the number of consecutive hits reaches the fifth, the current meter value is always 2 or more, and a situation in which the meter value does not change by lottery even though continuous hits are continued is avoided.

  Similarly, in the operation corresponding effect table T1, when the number of consecutive hits is 6th to 19th, the effect content for increasing the meter value is more easily determined as the current meter value is smaller, and the number of repeated hits is the 10th. In such a case, the content of the effect in which the meter value is always 4 or more is determined, and when the number of repeated hits is the 15th, the content of the effect in which the meter value is always 6 or more is determined. When the number of repeated hits is the 20th, if the current meter value is 6, the production content is determined to increase the meter value by 4 at a rate of 100% (that is, the meter value becomes 10). When the current meter value is 7, the production content is determined to increase the meter value by 3 at a rate of 100% (that is, the meter value becomes 10), and when the current meter value is 8, When the production content is determined to increase the meter value by 2 at a rate of 100% (that is, the meter value becomes 10) and the current meter value is 9, the meter value is increased by 1 at a rate of 100% ( That is, the production content is determined (the meter value is 10). Therefore, the current meter value is always 10 after the number of repeated hits reaches the 20th. As described above, when the meter value reaches the maximum value of 10, even if the effect button 37 is operated further, the operation corresponding effect according to the operation is not executed, and the operation reception period ends. . For this reason, in the effect table T1, it is not prescribed | regulated about the case where the operation of the effect button 37 21st time or more is performed.

  As described above, when the operation corresponding effect table T1 is referred to by determining the first SPSP loss or the first SPSP loss, if the number of consecutive hits reaches at least 20th during the operation reception period, the operation contents of the operation corresponding effect Becomes a specific success indication mode (meter value is maximum 10), suggesting that it develops to the first SPSP reach. That is, the operation corresponding effect table T1 is a reference table in which the contents of the effect of the operation corresponding effect can be in a specific success display mode. If the number of repeated hits does not reach the 20th time during the operation reception period and the meter value does not reach the maximum value 10, the meter value is forcibly triggered by the end of the operation reception period. Becomes 10 and the success notification effect is executed.

  As shown in (2) of FIG. 28, in the operation corresponding effect table T2, when the number of consecutive hits is 1 to 9, the numerical value of the ratio is slightly different, but the operation corresponding effect table T1 is similar to the operation corresponding effect table T1. As the current meter value is smaller, the production content for increasing the meter value is more easily determined. When the number of repeated hits is the fifth, the production content for which the meter value is always 2 or more is determined. On the other hand, when the number of repeated hits is 10th or later, if the current meter value is less than 9, the content of the effect of increasing the meter value is more easily determined as the current meter value is smaller, but the current meter value is 9. In some cases, the production content that increases the meter value is not determined (the lottery ratio is 0%). In other words, when the current meter value is 9, the production content for increasing the meter value is not determined regardless of the number of repeated hits, and the meter value does not reach the maximum value of 10. . Therefore, when the operation corresponding effect table T2 is referred to, the meter value does not reach the maximum value 10, that is, the effect content of the operation corresponding effect does not become a specific success display mode, and the operation reception period When is completed, a failure notification effect (for example, a display effect that displays a character image of “sorry”) is executed to notify that the specific successful display mode has not been achieved. In the operation correspondence effect table T2, when the number of consecutive hits is the tenth, the content of the effect that the meter value is always 4 or more is determined, and when the number of consecutive hits is the fifteenth, the meter value is always 5 The content of the effect as described above is determined, and even if the number of consecutive hits exceeds 20 times within the operation reception period, an operation corresponding effect corresponding to the operation can be executed. It is also stipulated when this operation is performed.

  As described above, when the operation corresponding effect table T2 is referred to by determining the first SP loss or the effect pattern per first SP, the operation corresponding effect regardless of the number of consecutive hits during the operation reception period. The content of the production does not become a specific success display mode (meter value is 10), which suggests that it does not develop into a subsequent production. In other words, the operation corresponding effect table T2 is a reference table in which the effect contents of the operation corresponding effect cannot be a specific success display mode.

  Next, an effect execution process and an operation information transmission / reception process by the image sound control unit 500 that executes a notification effect including the above-described operation response effect and the like, which are characteristic in the present embodiment, will be described. In addition, 1st Embodiment and 2nd Embodiment are described as operation information transmission / reception processing by the image sound control part 500 in this embodiment.

[Production execution processing by the image sound control unit]
First, with reference to FIG. 29, the effect execution process performed in the image sound control part 500 is demonstrated. The image sound control unit 500 repeatedly executes a series of processes shown in FIG. 29 at regular time intervals (for example, 33 milliseconds) during a normal operation except for special cases such as when the power is turned on and when the power is turned off. Note that processing performed by the image sound control unit 500 described based on the flowchart of FIG. 29 is executed based on a program stored in the ROM 502. In the effect execution process shown in FIG. 29, the description of the portions other than the operation-compatible effect characteristic in the present embodiment is simplified.

  First, in step S <b> 801, the CPU 501 of the image sound control unit 500 determines whether a command instructing a notification effect is received from the effect control unit 400. If the determination in step S801 is YES, the process moves to step S802. If the determination is NO, the process moves to step S803.

  In step S <b> 802, the CPU 501 sets a schedule such as the execution timing and execution time of the configured preview effect (operation-related effect etc.) based on the effect content set according to the command received in step S <b> 801. For example, when the content of the effect including the operation-related effect is specified in the received command for instructing the notification effect, the image sound control unit 500 schedules the execution timing and execution time of the configured operation-compatible effect. Based on the setting, an operation reception period (for example, 6 seconds from 30 seconds to 36 seconds after the start of the notification effect) is set. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S803.

  In step S803, the CPU 501 determines whether or not an effect is scheduled by the process in step S802. If the determination in step S803 is YES, the process proceeds to step S804. If this determination is NO, the series of effect execution processes is terminated, and the series of processes illustrated in FIG. 29 is performed in a predetermined cycle (every 33 milliseconds). Repeat the production execution process.

  In step S804, the CPU 501 determines whether or not the effect scheduled by the process of step S802 (that is, the notification effect instructed from the effect control unit 400) includes an operation-compatible effect. If the determination in step S804 is YES, the process proceeds to step S805, and if this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S811.

  In step S805, the CPU 501 determines whether or not it is during the operation reception period based on the schedule set in step S802. If the determination in step S805 is YES, the process moves to step S806, and if this determination is NO, the process moves to step S807.

  In step S <b> 806, the CPU 501 uses the horizontally long bar-shaped gauge portion to indicate the elapsed time of the operation reception period (or the remaining time of the operation reception period) as an operation reception suggestion effect that suggests that the operation reception period is in progress. The GI is displayed on the image display unit 6 in a display mode corresponding to the elapsed time during the operation reception period. Specifically, the gauge portion of the gauge image GI includes, for example, a red residual gauge portion (a portion indicated by a dot portion of the gauge image GI illustrated in FIG. 33) indicating the remaining time of the operation reception period, and an elapsed time of the operation reception period. For example, a white progress gauge portion (a portion indicated by a white portion excluding the dot portion of the gauge image GI shown in FIG. 33), and the CPU 501 has a remaining gauge portion when the elapsed time during the operation reception period is zero. And the ratio of the elapsed gauge part is displayed in a display mode of 10 to 0, the ratio of the remaining gauge part is decreased and the ratio of the elapsed gauge part is increased as the elapsed time increases, and the elapsed time is displayed. Is displayed in a display mode in which the ratio of the remaining gauge portion and the elapsed gauge portion is 0 to 10 when the operation acceptance period is reached. As a result, the red residual gauge portion gradually increases from the maximum state (that is, the state corresponding to the length of the operation reception period) as time elapses between the start and end of the operation reception period. At the same time, the white progress gauge portion is gradually increased from the 0 state and displayed in the transition to the maximum state. In the process of step S806, the CPU 501 may instruct the lamp control unit 600 to cause the effect button 37 to emit light during the operation reception period. Based on this instruction, the lamp control unit 600 causes the effect button 37 to emit light during the operation reception period, so that the player visually recognizes not only the gauge image GI displayed on the image display unit 6 but also the light emission of the effect button 37. By doing so, it can be confirmed whether or not the operation is being accepted. That is, the light emission effect of the effect button 37 also functions as an instruction suggestion during operation reception. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S807.

  In step S807, the CPU 501 determines whether or not an effect instruction command (see step S1203 in FIG. 27) for instructing an operation-compatible effect has been received from the effect control unit 400. If the determination in step S807 is YES, the process moves to step S808, and if this determination is NO, the process moves to step S809.

  In step S808, the CPU 501 executes the operation corresponding effect of the set effect content (for example, the effect content effect that increases the meter value by 1) based on the effect instruction command instructing the operation corresponding effect received in step S807. To do. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S809.

  In step S809, the CPU 501 determines whether it is the end timing of the operation reception period based on the schedule set in step S802. Further, when the production content of the operation-related production executed in the process of step S808 is a specific successful display mode (meter value is 10), the CPU 501 responds to the operation even if the production button 37 is further operated. Therefore, it is determined that the operation acceptance period has ended. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S810.

  In step S810, the CPU 501 ends the suggestion effect during operation acceptance. Specifically, the CPU 501 ends the display of the gauge image GI displayed on the image display unit 6 and ends the light emission when the effect button 37 is lighted during the operation reception period. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S811.

  In step S811, the CPU 501 determines whether it is the start timing of the predetermined effect scheduled by the process in step S802. Note that the predetermined effects are various effects excluding the operation-related effects, such as reach effects, SP reach effects, SPSP reach effects, success notification effects, failure notification effects, and the like. In addition, in the case where the effect set by the process of step S802 includes an operation-compatible effect and an effect that develops into an SPSP reach effect, the operation-related effect is displayed when the operation reception period ends. If the effect content is not a specific success display mode (meter value is the maximum value 10), the CPU 501 determines that it is time to execute the success notification effect by forcibly setting the meter value as 10 as the predetermined effect. If the determination in step S811 is YES, the process proceeds to step S812. If this determination is NO, the series of effect execution processes is terminated, and the series of processes illustrated in FIG. 29 is performed in a predetermined cycle (every 33 milliseconds). Repeat the production execution process.

  In step S812, the CPU 501 starts a predetermined effect determined to be the start timing in the process of step S811. Thereafter, the series of effect execution processes is terminated, and the series of effect execution processes shown in FIG. 29 is repeated in a predetermined cycle (every 33 milliseconds).

[First Embodiment]
[Operation information transmission / reception processing by the image sound control unit]
Next, with reference to FIG. 30, the operation information transmission / reception process by the image sound control unit 500 in the first embodiment will be described. The image sound control unit 500 repeatedly executes a series of processes shown in FIG. 30 at regular time intervals (for example, 33 milliseconds) in a normal operation excluding special cases such as when the power is turned on and when the power is turned off. Note that the processing performed by the image sound control unit 500 described based on the flowchart of FIG. 30 is executed based on a program stored in the ROM 502.

  In step S <b> 821, the CPU 501 determines whether or not the operation information transmitted from the lamp control unit 600 and indicating that the effect button 37 has been operated is received. If the determination in step S821 is YES, the process proceeds to step S822. If this determination is NO, the series of operation information transmission / reception processes is terminated, and the series shown in FIG. 30 is performed in a predetermined cycle (every 33 milliseconds). The operation information transmission / reception process is repeated.

  In step S822, the CPU 501 determines whether or not it is within the operation reception period. Note that whether or not it is within the operation reception period is determined based on the schedule information described above with reference to step S802 in FIG. If the determination in step S822 is YES, the process proceeds to step S823, and if this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S826.

  In step S823, the CPU 501 determines whether or not the operation reception period is within a specific period. Here, the specific period indicates the last predetermined period of the operation reception period, and in the present embodiment, the last 2f (2/30 seconds) of 180f (frame) (that is, 6 seconds) that is the operation reception period. Is set as a specific period (see FIG. 32 described later). Note that whether or not it is within the specific period is determined based on the schedule information described above with reference to step S802 in FIG. If the determination in step S823 is YES, the process moves to step S825. If the determination is NO, the process moves to step S824.

  In step S824, the CPU 501 obtains effective operation information based on the fact that the operation information received in step S821 is valid operation information (that is, operation information acquired within the operation reception period). Send to. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S826.

  In step S825, the CPU 501 is the operation information acquired in the specific period, although the operation information received in step S821 is valid operation information (that is, operation information acquired in the operation reception period). Based on this, the effective operation information is not transmitted to the effect control unit 400. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S826.

  In step S826, the CPU 501 produces an effect indicating that the effect button 37 has been operated based on the reception of the operation information in step S821 (for example, an effect that lights the effect button 37 or an effect that outputs operation sound). Is executed by the lamp controller 600. Then, the series of operation information transmission / reception processing ends, and the series of operation information transmission / reception processing shown in FIG. 30 is repeated in a predetermined cycle (every 33 milliseconds).

  As described above, in the first embodiment, the CPU 501 determines that the operation information received from the lamp control unit 600 is valid even within the operation reception period and within the specific period. The effective operation information based on the fact that the operation information is valid is not transmitted to the effect control unit 400. The reason for this will be described in detail below.

  As described with reference to FIGS. 27 and 29, in the present embodiment, the image sound control unit 500 that has acquired the operation information from the lamp control unit 600 has the operation information valid (that is, the operation reception period). In the case of the operation information acquired in the inside), the effective operation information is transmitted to the effect control unit 400, and the effect control unit 400 produces the operation corresponding effect based on the valid operation information received from the image sound control unit 500. The content is determined, and the image sound control unit 500 is instructed to execute the operation corresponding effect of the effect content. However, at the processing timing at which the image sound control unit 500 transmits the valid operation information, the production instruction command for the operation-corresponding production of the production content determined based on the valid operation information has not been transmitted from the production control unit 400 yet. Therefore, the image sound control unit 500 cannot receive the operation instruction command for the operation corresponding effect based on the transmitted effective operation information, and receives the operation instruction command for the operation corresponding effect at the next processing timing. An effect process (drawing process) is executed based on the instruction command. Hereinafter, this will be specifically described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 31 is an example of a timing chart relating to a conventional operation-compatible effect. As shown in FIG. 31, it is assumed that the operation reception period is 6 seconds (180f), and the specific time t = 0f to 180f during SP reach is the operation reception period. At this time, the CPU 501 of the image sound control unit 500 executes a drawing process or the like every 33 ms (that is, every 1f). Specifically, first, when the operation reception period starts at time t = 0f, the CPU 501 of the image sound control unit 500 displays the gauge image GI indicating the operation reception period (drawing process) on the image display unit 6. Start.

  Then, for example, when the CPU 501 receives the operation information with the first consecutive hit count from the lamp control unit 600 at time t = 5f, the CPU 501 transmits the effective operation information to the effect control unit 400 based on the fact that the operation information is valid. To do. At this time t = 5f, since an effect instruction command for instructing an operation-related effect is not transmitted from the effect control unit 400, an operation-related effect corresponding to the first operation for the number of consecutive hits is executed in the image display unit 6. (It remains the initial display). Since the CPU 401 of the effect control unit 400 has a different processing cycle (every 4 ms) from the CPU 501 of the image sound control unit 500, the CPU 401 waits for and receives the valid operation information transmitted from the image sound control unit 500. Based on the operation information, the content of the effect corresponding to the operation is determined and an effect instruction command for the effect is transmitted to the image sound control unit 500. At this time, since the processing cycle of the CPU 401 is shorter than the processing cycle of the CPU 501, the effect instruction command transmitted from the effect control unit 400 is stored in the reception buffer of the image sound control unit 500, and the CPU 501 The effect instruction command stored in the reception buffer is received at the processing timing corresponding to the cycle (every 33 m). Therefore, the CPU 501 of the image sound control unit 500 causes the effect instruction command from the effect control unit 400 at time t = 6f (that is, the timing of the frame process next to the frame process in which the effective operation information for the first consecutive hit is transmitted). Is displayed on the image display unit 6 based on the effect instruction command, and the display of the operation corresponding effect of the effect content corresponding to the first operation of the number of consecutive hits (drawing process) is executed. In this way, since the rendering process of the operation corresponding effect is executed by performing the transmission / reception process of the command or the like between the image sound control unit 500 and the effect control unit 400 having different processing cycles, the image sound control unit 500 The display of the operation corresponding effect (drawing process) based on the operation information is executed at the timing of the next frame processing, not at the timing of the frame processing when the operation information is received from the lamp control unit 600. In the present embodiment, in the frame (effect instruction reception frame) in which the effect instruction command is received from the effect control unit 400, the effect content effect based on the effect instruction command is displayed (output) on the image display unit 6. However, it is also possible to apply a double buffer method in which drawing processing is performed on the other frame buffer while an image is output from one frame buffer. In this case, drawing processing is performed in the frame buffer in the effect instruction reception frame, and the drawing content in the frame buffer is output to the image display unit 6 in the next frame. For this reason, when the double buffer method is adopted, the timing at which the effect is displayed on the image display unit 6 (the drawing process is performed) is further delayed by one frame from the effect instruction reception frame.

  Similarly, when the CPU 501 of the image sound control unit 500 receives the operation information for the Nth consecutive hits from the lamp control unit 600 at time t = 180f, which is the end of the operation reception period, it is possible to perform an effective operation during the operation reception period. Therefore, based on the fact that the operation information is valid, the valid operation information is transmitted to the effect control unit 400. At time t = 180f, since the operation reception period ends (last timing), the CPU 501 ends the display of the gauge image GI on the image display unit 6. Then, the CPU 401 of the effect control unit 400 transmits to the image sound control unit 500 an effect instruction command for the operation corresponding effect of the effect content determined based on the received Nth effective operation information. The timing for performing the operation-corresponding effect drawing processing based on the time is time t = 181f. When the image sound control unit 500 receives the effect instruction command from the effect control unit 400, the image sound control unit 500 executes the drawing process based on the effect instruction command. Therefore, the Nth operation information is valid at time t = 181f. The display (drawing process) of the operation corresponding effect based on (valid operation information) is executed in the image display unit 6. Then, the operation corresponding effect based on the operation within the operation reception period is displayed after the operation reception period ends (that is, after the display of the gauge image GI indicating the operation reception period ends). An effect with a sense of incongruity will be executed.

  As described above, conventionally, an operation-corresponding effect may be executed despite the end of the operation reception period, and an unnatural effect may be executed. As described above, as a method of avoiding the operation-related effect being executed after the end of the operation reception period, the control processing of the operation-related effect is performed by the CPU 501 of the image sound control unit 500 and the CPU 401 of the effect control unit 400. It is conceivable that the processing is executed by centralized processing by one CPU (for example, CPU 501) instead of shared processing. This eliminates the need for transmission / reception processing of commands and the like between the CPU 501 and the CPU 401. Therefore, the timing of the reception processing of the operation information of the CPU 501 and the rendering processing of the operation corresponding effect based on the validity of the operation information. Can be solved (for example, by 1f). However, in recent gaming machines, the game effect is a very important element for attracting the player's interest, and therefore the processing load of the control process of the game effect tends to increase. Therefore, it will be beneficial to execute the presentation control process using a plurality of CPUs in the future, and the process can be shared by using a plurality of CPUs to transmit / receive commands to / from each other. There is also an advantage that it is easy to identify the cause. Accordingly, in the present embodiment, a method for performing control processing of a game effect using a plurality of CPUs and avoiding an operation corresponding effect being executed outside the operation reception period is adopted. In the embodiment, the CPU 501 does not transmit the operation information received from the lamp control unit 600 to the effect control unit 400 when the operation reception period is within the specific period.

  Specifically, as shown in FIG. 32, in the first embodiment, even in the operation reception period, the operation information for the Nth consecutive hit in the last specific period (for example, time t = 178f to 180f). Is received from the lamp control unit 600, the CPU 501 of the image sound control unit 500 does not regard the operation information as valid operation information, and does not transmit the operation information to the effect control unit 400. Then, since the effective operation information based on the fact that the operation information during the specific period (that is, within the operation reception period) is valid is not received by the effect control unit 400, the effective operation information during the specific period is included in the effective operation information. The effect instruction command for the operation corresponding effect of the effect content based is not transmitted from the effect control unit 400. For this reason, the image sound control unit 500, based on the fact that the operation information during the specific period is valid (valid operation information), after the end of the specific period (that is, after the end of the operation reception period) The drawing process is not executed. That is, in the first embodiment, the gauge image GI indicating the operation reception period is displayed by 180 f minutes (6 seconds), which suggests that the period of 180 f is the operation reception period. The period regarded as an effective operation used for the corresponding effect is a period of 178f excluding the specific period from the operation reception period. Therefore, in the first embodiment, the operation reception period suggested by the displayed gauge image GI is different from the period during which the operation is actually considered valid. Note that when the operation information is received by the image acoustic control unit 500 within the operation reception period immediately before the specific period (for example, time t = 177f), the image acoustic control unit 500 performs the operation within the specific period (time t = 178f) In order to receive from the effect control unit 400 an effect instruction command for an operation corresponding effect of the effect content based on the fact that the operation information is valid, the operation corresponding effect is executed within a specific period. The operation corresponding effect is not executed outside the operation reception period.

  In this embodiment, since the processing cycle of the CPU 401 is shorter than the processing cycle of the CPU 501, the CPU 501 makes the operation information effective at the timing of the next processing of the frame processing that has received the operation information from the lamp control unit 600. It is possible to display an operation corresponding effect based on the presence (valid operation information). However, the timing at which the CPU 501 displays the operation-related effect varies depending on the difference in the processing cycle between the CPU 401 and the CPU 501. Specifically, when the processing cycle of the CPU 401 is longer than the processing cycle of the CPU 501, the operation information is valid at the timing of the next processing of the frame processing when the CPU 501 receives the operation information from the lamp control unit 600. There is a case where an effect instruction command for an operation corresponding effect based on the fact cannot be received from the CPU 401 yet. In such a case, the CPU 501 further displays an operation corresponding effect based on the fact that the operation information is valid at the timing of the next processing, and the timing of the frame processing when the operation information is received. And the frame processing timing for displaying the operation corresponding effect corresponding to the received operation information are further deviated. Further, such a processing shift occurs when the double buffer method is applied. For this reason, in the first embodiment described above, the length of the specific period is the last two frames of the operation reception period. However, there is some difference such as a difference in processing cycle between the CPU 401 and the CPU 501 and a double buffer method. It is preferable to set the length of the specific period in consideration of a case where processing is delayed due to circumstances. Further, even if the processing cycle of the CPU 401 and the processing cycle of the CPU 501 are the same, as long as the processing timing does not match (complete synchronization), the CPU 501 recognizes that the operation information is valid at the frame processing timing when the operation information is received. Since it is not possible to receive an effect instruction command for an operation-compatible effect based on the fact that it is, the frame processing timing for displaying the operation-related effect corresponding to the received operation information and the frame processing timing for receiving the operation information Will be off.

[Example of characteristic operation]
Next, an example of the characteristic operation (operation corresponding effect) according to the first embodiment described above using the flowchart will be specifically described with reference to FIGS. 33 and 34. FIG. 33 and FIG. 34 show an example of the operation corresponding effect executed in the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 33 shows an example of an operation-corresponding effect that is executed when the first SP loss is determined as the effect pattern (that is, when the SPSP reach does not develop), and FIG. 34 shows the first SPSP loss as the effect pattern. An example of an operation-corresponding effect executed when is determined (that is, when developing to SPSP reach) is shown.

  First, with reference to FIG. 33, an example of the operation corresponding effect executed when the first SP loss is determined as the effect pattern will be described.

  When the notification effect accompanied by the operation corresponding effect is executed, when the variation of the special symbol is started, the variation display of the three decorative symbols DI is started in the image display unit 6, and (1) in FIG. 33 is started. As shown in the figure, a reach-eye establishment effect is executed in which the decorative design DI arranged on the left and the decorative design DI arranged on the right are temporarily stopped and displayed with the same outcome (for example, the outcome “4”). (So-called reach state is established). The temporary stop means that the player can recognize that the variation of the decorative symbol DI has stopped, and is not completely stopped. For example, in a state in which the decoration symbol DI slightly fluctuates up and down. Is displayed. This indicates that the special symbol is still changing. In FIG. 33, the decorative symbol DI that is changing or temporarily stopped is displayed with a dotted line, and the decorative symbol DI that has been completely stopped (mainly stopped) is displayed with a solid line.

  Next, as shown in (2) of FIG. 33, the SP reach effect is executed in the image display unit 6. Note that any SP reach effect may be used. For example, a battle effect of a moving image in which a hero character of 2D animation fights an enemy character is executed. At this time, the decorative design DI is reduced and displayed in a reduced manner in the upper left corner, but may be hidden.

  Next, as shown in (3) of FIG. 33, in the final phase during the SP reach production, the operation corresponding effect that determines whether or not the subsequent SPSP reach production is developed in the image display unit 6 will be described. Button instruction production is started. Specifically, the meter image MI whose display mode changes according to the operation of the effect button 37 is displayed, and the meter value of the meter image MI is increased by operating the effect button 37, and the value is set to MAX (maximum value). 10) The button instruction effect instructing to do is started. Thereby, the player can prepare for operating the effect button 37. In the present embodiment, the meter value of the meter image MI is associated with the effect content of the SP reach, and as an example, is associated with the physical strength value of the hero character who was defeated by the enemy character during the SP reach, When the meter value reaches MAX, the main character is revived, and it is expected to develop into SPSP reach (second half battle).

  Next, as shown in (4) of FIG. 33, with the start of the operation reception period, the gauge image GI indicating the operation reception period is displayed in the initial form on the image display unit 6. Specifically, the red residual gauge portion (portion indicated by a dot in FIG. 33) of the gauge image GI is the largest, and the white elapsed gauge portion is displayed in a zero state. Note that the gauge image GI is gradually displayed as time passes. Specifically, the red residual gauge portion is decreased and the white elapsed gauge portion is increased ((5) to (5) in FIG. 33). (See (7)), in the final mode, the red residual gauge portion becomes 0 and the white progress gauge portion becomes the maximum (see (8) in FIG. 33).

  Next, as shown in (5) and (6) of FIG. 33, when the effect button 37 is operated within an operation reception period that is not a specific period, the number of repeated hits and the meter value of the current meter image MI are displayed. Accordingly, the operation corresponding effect of the effect content determined with reference to the operation corresponding effect table T2 shown in (2) of FIG. 28 is executed, thereby increasing the meter value of the meter image MI.

  Next, as shown in (7) of FIG. 33, even if the operation of the effect button 37 is performed during the specific period, operation information based on the operation is not transmitted from the image sound control unit 500 to the effect control unit 400. The meter value of the meter image MI does not change based on the operation (that is, if the meter value is 7, the meter value remains 7 even if the effect button 37 is operated). That is, even if the operation of the effect button 37 is performed during the specific period, the operation is not considered to be an effective operation, and the operation corresponding effect according to the operation is not executed. However, the gauge image GI indicating that the operation of the effect button 37 is being received is displayed. That is, during the specific period, the operation on the effect button 37 is not actually considered effective, but the gauge image GI indicating that the operation is being accepted is displayed, and as a result, the display The operation reception period suggested by the gauge image GI to be performed is different from the period during which the operation is actually considered valid (operation reception period excluding the specific period). Note that, if the operation of the effect button 37 is performed within the operation reception period immediately before the specific period, the operation is considered to be effective, and therefore the meter of the meter image MI is determined based on the operation during the specific period. The value may change.

  Next, as shown in (8) of FIG. 33, as the operation reception period ends, the gauge image GI indicating the operation reception period is displayed on the image display unit 6 in an end mode. . Specifically, the red residual gauge portion of the gauge image GI is 0, and the white elapsed gauge portion is maximum. After that, the display of the gauge image GI ends.

  Next, as shown in (9) of FIG. 33, a failure notification effect (for example, “ (Sorry ... "character image display) is executed. This suggests that it does not develop into subsequent effects (SPSP reach effects).

  Next, as shown in (10) of FIG. 33, in the image display unit 6, the fixed symbol is stopped and displayed as the decorative symbol DI. Specifically, in order to notify that it is a loss, a loss symbol (for example, the disparity of the numerical symbols “4”, “1”, and “4”) is fixed and displayed as a decorative symbol DI.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 34, an example of the operation corresponding effect executed when the first SPSP loss is determined as the effect pattern will be described. In addition, the operation corresponding effect when the first SPSP loss shown in (1) to (4) of FIG. 34 is determined is the operation when the first SP loss shown in (1) to (4) of FIG. 33 is determined. Since it is the same as a corresponding effect, the description is abbreviate | omitted.

  As shown in (5) and (6) of FIG. 34, when the effect button 37 is operated within an operation reception period that is not a specific period, according to the number of consecutive hits and the meter value of the current meter image MI, The meter-related value of the meter image MI is increased by executing the operation-corresponding effect of the effect content determined with reference to the operation-corresponding effect table T1 shown in (1) of FIG. If the number of consecutive hits reaches at least the 20th within the operation reception period that is not the specific period, the production content of the operation corresponding effect becomes a specific success display mode (the meter value is the maximum value 10), and further operations are performed. Even if the operation is not performed, the operation corresponding effect according to the operation is not executed and the operation reception period ends (that is, the gauge image GI is not displayed), but here, within the operation reception period that is not the specific period It is assumed that the meter value has not reached the maximum value of 10.

  Next, as illustrated in (7) of FIG. 34, even if the operation of the effect button 37 is performed during the specific period, operation information based on the operation is not transmitted from the image sound control unit 500 to the effect control unit 400. The meter value of the meter image MI does not change based on the operation (that is, if the meter value is 7, the meter value remains 7 even if the effect button 37 is operated). That is, even if the operation of the effect button 37 is performed during the specific period, the operation is not considered to be an effective operation, and the operation corresponding effect according to the operation is not executed. However, the gauge image GI indicating that the operation of the effect button 37 is being received is displayed.

  Next, as shown in (8) of FIG. 34, as the operation reception period ends, the gauge image GI indicating the operation reception period is displayed on the image display unit 6 in an end mode. . Specifically, the red residual gauge portion of the gauge image GI is 0, and the white elapsed gauge portion is maximum. After that, the display of the gauge image GI ends.

  Next, as shown in (9) of FIG. 34, when the operation acceptance period has ended, regardless of the meter value of the current meter image MI, the production content of the operation corresponding effect is a specific successful display mode ( A success notification effect (for example, display of a character image of “success ...”) for notifying that the meter value has reached the maximum value 10) is executed. Thereby, it is suggested that it develops into a subsequent production (SPSP reach production).

  Next, as shown in (10) of FIG. 34, the SPSP reach effect is executed in the image display unit 6. Any SPSP reach effect may be used, but it is an effect that further expects to win a big hit than the SP reach effect. For example, a battle effect of a moving image in which the main character of the live-action version fights the enemy is executed. The At this time, the decorative design DI is reduced and displayed in a reduced manner in the upper left corner, but may be hidden.

  As described above, in the first embodiment, when there is an operation on the effect button 37 within the last specific period even within the operation reception period, the operation information based on the operation is displayed as the image sound control unit 500. Is not transmitted to the effect control unit 400, the operation is not regarded as an effective operation, and as a result, the operation corresponding effect (change in the meter image MI) after the end of the specific period (that is, after the end of the operation reception period). Can be prevented from running.

[Second Embodiment]
[Operation information transmission / reception processing by the image sound control unit]
Next, a second embodiment of the operation information transmission / reception process performed by the image sound control unit 500 that executes the notification effect including the operation-related effect described above will be described. FIG. 35 is a flowchart illustrating a second embodiment of operation information transmission / reception processing performed by the image sound control unit 500. Note that the operation information transmission / reception processing in the second embodiment differs in part from the operation information transmission / reception processing in the first embodiment described with reference to FIG. Therefore, processing different from the processing in FIG. 30 will be described below with reference to FIG. 35, and processing that is common to each processing in FIG. 30 will be given the same step number and description thereof will be omitted.

  In the process shown in FIG. 35, the determination process of step S823 is omitted from the process shown in FIG. Therefore, in the second embodiment, unlike the first embodiment, the operation information received from the lamp control unit 600 (YES in step S822) is within the operation reception period (YES in step S822). Effective operation information) is transmitted to the production control unit 400 (step S824).

  In step S827, the CPU 501 determines whether it is the start timing of the specific period in the operation reception period. Note that whether or not it is the start timing of the specific period is determined based on the schedule information described above with reference to step S802 in FIG. If the determination in step S827 is YES, the process moves to step S828. If the determination is NO, the process moves to step S829.

  In step S828, CPU 501 transmits specific period start information indicating that the specific period has started to effect control unit 400. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S829.

  In step S829, the CPU 501 determines whether or not it is the end timing of the specific period (that is, the end timing of the operation reception period) in the operation reception period. Note that whether or not it is the end timing of the specific period is determined based on the schedule information described above with reference to step S802 in FIG. If the determination in step S829 is YES, the process proceeds to step S830. If this determination is NO, the series of operation information transmission / reception processing is terminated, and the sequence shown in FIG. 35 is performed in a predetermined cycle (every 33 milliseconds). The operation information transmission / reception process is repeated.

  In step S830, CPU 501 transmits specific period end information indicating that the specific period has ended to effect control unit 400. Then, the series of operation information transmission / reception processing ends, and the series of operation information transmission / reception processing shown in FIG. 35 is repeated in a predetermined cycle (every 33 milliseconds).

  As described above, in the second embodiment, unlike the first embodiment, the effective operation information is transmitted from the image sound control unit 500 to the effect control unit 400 even during a specific period within the operation reception period. However, information indicating the start timing and end timing of the specific period is also transmitted. For this reason, in 2nd Embodiment, the effect input control process by the effect control part 400 demonstrated with reference to FIG. 27 is corrected into the effect input control process shown in FIG. The effect input control process in the second embodiment shown in FIG. 36 will be described below. Note that the effect input control process in the second embodiment differs in part from the effect input control process in the first embodiment described with reference to FIG. Therefore, processing different from the processing in FIG. 27 will be described below with reference to FIG. 36, and processing that is common to each processing in FIG. 27 is assigned the same step number and description thereof is omitted.

  As shown in FIG. 36, when the determination in step S1201 is YES, in step S1204, the CPU 401 of the effect control unit 400 determines whether or not it is within a specific period. Specifically, the CPU 401 determines that the period from the processing timing at which the specific period start information is received from the image sound control unit 500 to the processing timing at which the specific period end information is received is within the specific period, and the other processes It is determined that the timing is not within a specific period. If the determination in step S1204 is YES, the process moves to step S1205. If the determination is NO, the process moves to step S1202.

  In step S <b> 1205, even when the valid operation information is received, the CPU 401 executes the operation corresponding effect on the image sound control unit 500 or the like without determining the effect content of the operation corresponding effect based on the received valid operation information. Do not instruct to do so (prohibit instruction). Thereafter, the effect input control process is terminated, and the process proceeds to step S13 in FIG.

  As described above, in the second embodiment, effective operation information is transmitted from the image sound control unit 500 to the effect control unit 400 even within a specific period, but the effect control unit 400 performs image sound control. Based on the start information and the end information of the specific period transmitted from the unit 500, when the valid operation information is received within the specific period, no instruction for the operation corresponding effect is given to the image sound control unit 500. This is for the same reason as described in the first embodiment. Specifically, as described with reference to FIG. 31, conventionally, there is a case where an operation corresponding effect is executed even though the operation reception period ends, and an unnatural effect is executed. There was a case. However, as shown in FIG. 37, in the second embodiment, in the last specific period (for example, time t = 178f to 180f) in the operation reception period, the image acoustic control unit 500 performs the Nth repeated hitting. When the operation information is received from the lamp control unit 600, the operation information is regarded as valid operation information, and the valid operation information is transmitted to the effect control unit 400. However, the effect control unit 400 that has received this effective operation information, the specific period start information transmitted from the image acoustic control unit 500 at time t = 178f and the specific period transmitted from the image acoustic control unit 500 at time t = 180f. Based on the end information, it is determined that the operation information for the Nth consecutive hit is valid operation information within a specific period, and instructs the image sound control unit 500 to execute the operation corresponding effect corresponding to the valid operation information. do not do. For this reason, the image sound control unit 500, based on the fact that the operation information during the specific period is valid (valid operation information), after the end of the specific period (that is, after the end of the operation reception period) The drawing process is not executed. In the second embodiment, as in the first embodiment, the operation reception period suggested by the displayed gauge image GI is different from the period during which the operation is actually considered valid. Further, the characteristic operation (operation corresponding effect) according to the second embodiment is the same as the characteristic operation according to the first embodiment described with reference to FIGS. 33 and 34.

  As described above, in the second embodiment, if there is an operation on the effect button 37 within the last specific period even during the operation reception period, the operation information based on the operation is valid. When the effect control unit 400 does not instruct the image sound control unit 500 to perform the operation corresponding effect corresponding to the valid operation information based on the operation, the operation is not regarded as an effective operation, and as a result, after the end of the specific period (that is, the operation acceptance) It is possible to prevent the operation corresponding effect (change in the meter image MI) from being executed after the period).

  As described above, according to the first embodiment and the second embodiment, even if the operation is performed on the effect button 37 within the last specific period even in the operation reception period, the operation is performed. Is not regarded as an effective operation, and as a result, it is possible to prevent the operation corresponding effect (change in the meter image MI) from being executed after the end of the specific period (that is, after the end of the operation reception period). In other words, the operation reception period suggested by the gauge image GI displayed on the image display unit 6 is different from the period during which the operation is actually considered valid (a period obtained by excluding the specific period from the operation reception period). Thus, it can be said that the operation-corresponding effect can be prevented from being executed after the end of the operation reception period. From the above, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to avoid an unnatural drawing process in attracting the player's interest when executing an operation corresponding effect according to the operation of the effect button 37 by the player. Therefore, an appropriate game effect can be performed.

[Third Embodiment]
Note that the following third embodiment may be applied in order to avoid that the operation corresponding effect is executed despite the end of the operation reception period. Specifically, although not illustrated, in the third embodiment, the image sound control unit 500 regards the operation information within the operation reception period as valid operation information and transmits the valid operation information to the effect control unit 400. Then, the effect control unit 400 instructs the image sound control unit 500 to execute the operation corresponding effect of the effect contents based on the received valid operation information. However, when the image sound control unit 500 receives an instruction to execute an operation-compatible effect from the effect control unit 400 after the operation reception period ends, the image sound control unit 500 regards the execution instruction as an invalid instruction and is based on the instruction. Drawing processing (display of effects in the image display unit 6) is not executed. Even in this case, it is possible to prevent the operation corresponding effect (change in the meter image MI) from being executed after the operation reception period ends.

  Moreover, it is good also as what avoids that an operation corresponding | compatible production | generation is performed in spite of completion | finish of an operation reception period by combining the above-mentioned 1st Embodiment-3rd Embodiment appropriately.

  Further, the double buffer method may be applied in the first to third embodiments described above. When the double buffer method is applied, as described above, drawing processing is performed on the frame buffer in the frame (effect instruction reception frame) that received the effect instruction command from the effect control unit 400, and the effect instruction reception frame In the next frame, the drawing contents of the frame buffer are output to the image display unit 6. That is, in the double buffer method, when an effect is displayed on the image display unit 6 in a certain frame, the drawing content drawn in the frame buffer in the previous frame is output (displayed). Therefore, in the double buffer method, if the drawing process is not performed in the frame buffer, the drawing content is not output to the image display unit 6 in the next frame (the effect is not displayed). For this reason, when the double buffer method is applied, the drawing process for the frame buffer may be limited in the first to third embodiments. Specifically, when the double buffer method is applied in the first embodiment, if there is an operation on the effect button 37 within the last specific period even within the operation reception period, the operation information based on the operation Is not transmitted to the effect control unit 400, the instruction for the operation corresponding effect corresponding to the operation in the specific period is not transmitted from the effect control unit 400. Therefore, the image sound control unit 500 The drawing process of the operation corresponding effect corresponding to the operation in the specific period is not performed on the frame buffer. When the double buffer method is applied in the second embodiment, if there is an operation on the effect button 37 within the last specific period even during the operation reception period, the effect control unit 400 performs the operation in the specific period. Even if the operation information based on the operation information is received, the image sound control unit 500 does not transmit the instruction of the operation corresponding effect corresponding to the operation information to the image sound control unit 500, so that the image sound control unit 500 performs the operation corresponding effect corresponding to the operation in the specific period. Do not perform drawing on the frame buffer. When the double buffer method is applied in the third embodiment, the image sound control unit 500 performs drawing processing based on the instruction in the frame buffer even if the instruction for the operation corresponding effect is received from the effect control unit 400 after the operation reception period ends. Don't do that. As described above, in the first to third embodiments, the rendering process for the frame buffer is limited, and as a result, the effect displayed on the image display unit 6 is limited, and the operation reception period ends. It is possible to prevent an operation corresponding effect (change in meter image MI) from being executed later.

[Modification]
In the above-described embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4, transmission / reception control is performed between the lamp control unit 600 and the image sound control unit 500 so that the player operates the effect buttons 37 and the effect keys 38. The operation information (operation data) output in response to the operation is transmitted from the lamp control unit 600 to the image sound control unit 500. However, as shown in FIG. 38, transmission / reception control may not be performed between the lamp control unit 600 and the image sound control unit 500. In the configuration example of the control device shown in FIG. 38, when the player operates the effect button 37 and the effect key 38, operation information (operation data) output in response to the operation is output from the lamp control unit 600. The effect control unit 400 transmitted to the control unit 400 and the operation information is transmitted to the image sound control unit 500 as it is. That is, the operation information transmitted from the lamp control unit 600 is transmitted to the image sound control unit 500 via the effect control unit 400. Note that when the configuration of the control device shown in FIG. 38 is applied, the first embodiment described above is modified to the following first modification. That is, in the first modification, when there is an operation on the effect button 37, the image sound control unit 500 receives operation information based on the operation from the effect control unit 400, but within the operation reception period. However, the operation information (valid operation information) received within the last specific period is not transmitted to the effect control unit 400. When the configuration of the control device shown in FIG. 38 is applied, the second embodiment described above is modified to the following second modification. That is, in the second modification, when there is an operation on the effect button 37, the image sound control unit 500 receives the operation information based on the operation from the effect control unit 400 and receives it within the operation reception period. The operation information (valid operation information) is transmitted to the effect control unit 400, but the effect control unit 400 images the operation corresponding effect based on the valid operation information transmitted within the last specific period even within the operation reception period. The sound control unit 500 is not instructed. Further, when the configuration of the control device shown in FIG. 38 is applied, the above-described third embodiment is modified to the following third modification. That is, in the third modification, when there is an operation on the effect button 37, the image sound control unit 500 receives operation information based on the operation from the effect control unit 400, and receives it within the operation reception period. The operation information (effective operation information) is transmitted to the effect control unit 400, and the effect control unit 400 instructs the image sound control unit 500 to perform an operation corresponding effect based on the transmitted effective operation information. When the instruction is received after the end of the operation reception period, the instruction is regarded as an invalid instruction and the drawing process based on the instruction is not executed. Therefore, by adopting the configuration example shown in FIG. 38, even if any of the first to third modifications is adopted, as in the first to third embodiments described above, It is possible to prevent the operation corresponding effect (change in the meter image MI) from being executed after the end of the operation reception period.

  In the above-described embodiment, the image sound control unit 500 is effective when the operation information transmitted from the lamp control unit 600 (the production control unit 400 in the modification) is within the operation reception period. However, if the operation information is outside the operation reception period, the invalid operation based on the invalid operation information is performed. Information may be transmitted to the production control unit 400. In this case, the effect control unit 400 instructs the image sound control unit 500 to execute the operation corresponding effect based on the valid operation information, while the image sound control performs the operation corresponding effect based on the invalid operation information. It is also possible not to instruct the unit 500 or to instruct the image sound control unit 500 to execute an effect that suggests an invalid operation outside the operation reception period based on invalid operation information.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, the operation corresponding effect is an effect that is executed during the SP reach and suggests whether or not to develop to the SPSP reach. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the operation corresponding effect may be an effect suggesting whether or not a reach eye is established, or may be an effect suggesting whether or not a pseudo-ream is established. In addition, the operation corresponding effect is not limited to the case where it is used as an effect related to the result of the special symbol lottery (whether it is a big hit or not) such as a reach effect or an effect suggesting reliability. For example, the operation corresponding effect may be used as a game effect in which a game point is given in accordance with an operation of the effect button 37 during the operation reception period, which is not related to the result of the special symbol lottery. Here, a game point is given a privilege (for example, a privilege to see a rare image or a privilege to which customized contents are added) according to the number of points, and the result of the special symbol lottery and Is not relevant.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, the operation-related effect to be executed next by being drawn at the lottery ratio defined in the referenced operation-related effect table based on the number of consecutive hits and the current operation-related effect display mode. The contents of the production were decided. However, a plurality of operation-corresponding effect tables in which the number of consecutive hits and the effect contents of the operation-corresponding effect are associated one by one are prepared in advance according to the effect pattern, and which operation-corresponding effect table is selected. The operation corresponding effect associated with the operation (number of consecutive hits) may be executed based on the operation corresponding effect table determined in accordance with the lottery and determined by the lottery.

  In the above-described embodiment, the operation for the effect button 37 has been described as an example of a continuous hitting operation that is performed a plurality of times during the operation reception period. However, the present invention is not limited to this, for example, the effect button 37 during the operation reception period. It may be a long press that keeps holding for a predetermined time in a pressed state, or a single press that performs a press operation only once in a timely manner during the operation reception period. In this case, in the case of a long press, the operation corresponding effect table shows the content of the operation corresponding effect to be executed next based on the length of time held in the long press and the display mode of the current operation corresponding effect. It is a table to be determined. In the case of pressing once, the table may be a table in which the content of the effect corresponding to the operation to be executed next is determined based on the timing of the pressing operation. In the above-described embodiment, the operation on the effect button 37 has been described as an example. However, the operation may be applied to the operation on the effect key 38.

  Moreover, in the above-described embodiment, as an example, a case has been described in which an operation-corresponding effect is executed in a notification effect that does not include a prefetch notice effect. However, the present invention may be applied to a notification effect including a prefetch notice effect. In other words, the operation corresponding effect may be executed as the prefetching notice effect. For example, when it is determined to execute the prefetching notice effect, the operation corresponding effect is executed as the prefetching notice effect, and this operation corresponding effect has the pre-determined information determined to execute the prefetching notice effect. Are displayed in each variation display as an effect related to each other (for example, an effect in which the maximum value of the meter value of the meter image MI increases for each variation display), and the operation corresponding effect is a specific success display in each variation display. It may be suggested that by becoming an aspect (for example, the meter value becomes the maximum value), there is a high possibility of being a big hit in the previous variation display.

  In the above-described embodiment, the game state when the operation corresponding effect is executed is not particularly mentioned, but the operation corresponding effect is executed in a specific game state (for example, a probable game state). And may not be executed in other gaming states. Similarly, it is assumed that a plurality of effect modes are executed even in the same game state (for example, the normal game state), and an operation corresponding effect is executed in a specific effect mode (for example, a green background effect mode). It is good also as what is done. In this way, by limiting the conditions under which the operation-related effect is executed, the operation-related effect can be positioned as a dedicated effect, and when the operation-related effect is displayed, the player has a higher sense of uplift. Can be given.

  In the embodiment described above, when the execution of the operation corresponding effect is determined as the notice effect, the CPU 401 of the effect control unit 400 is referred to according to the operation of the effect button 37 based on the effect pattern at that time. Information on the type of the operation corresponding effect table is stored in the RAM 403 in advance, and the operation corresponding effect table corresponding to the information on the table type stored in the RAM 403 is selected from the plurality of operation corresponding effect tables stored in the ROM 402. To refer to. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and when the execution of the operation-related effect is determined as the notice effect, the CPU 501 of the image sound control unit 500 that has received the instruction of the effect is based on the content of the specified effect. For example, at the timing of transmitting valid operation information, the type of information is transmitted to the effect control unit 400 together with the valid operation information, and the CPU 401 of the effect control unit 400 stores the information in the ROM 402. The operation corresponding effect table corresponding to the received type of information may be referred to from among the plurality of operation corresponding effect tables.

  In the above-described embodiment, the effect control unit 400 determines an effect pattern according to the notification effect start command, determines various notice patterns based on the effect pattern, sets the effect content, and the effect content. Is transmitted to the image sound control unit 500, and according to the command, the image sound control unit 500 sets an execution schedule such as execution timing and execution time of various effects and executes the effects. . However, the processing sharing between the effect control unit 400 and the image sound control unit 500 is not limited to this. For example, the effect control unit 400 determines only the effect pattern according to the notification effect start command, and performs image sound control. Unit 500 may determine various notice patterns based on the effect pattern transmitted from effect control unit 400, and may further determine the execution schedule and execute the effect.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, when a special symbol lottery is won (big hit), until a next big hit is made at a predetermined ratio (for example, 70%) (exactly until the special symbol fluctuation display reaches 9999 times). ) The game configuration (so-called loop machine) set in the probability variation gaming state has been described as an example. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, when a special symbol lottery is won (big hit), the rate of change is 100%, and then the variation of the special symbol is changed to a predetermined number of rotations (for example, 80 times). A game configuration (so-called ST machine) set in a gaming state may be used.

  In the embodiment described above, the present invention has been described by taking a pachinko gaming machine as an example. However, the present invention is not limited to a pachinko gaming machine, and may be applied to, for example, a slot machine (cylinder type gaming machine, pachislot machine) within an applicable range. In this case, game information (random number; determination information) for determining a win is acquired by turning on the lever with a medal inserted in the slot machine (that is, the game information is acquired). The condition to be fulfilled). In this case, the “notification effect” in each of the embodiments described above corresponds to the effect from when the reel is changed to when it is stopped by turning on the lever in the slot machine.

  Moreover, although the features of the present embodiment and the features of the modified examples have been described above, it goes without saying that these features may be appropriately combined.

  Further, the shape, number, installation position, and the like of each component provided in the pachinko gaming machine 1 described above are merely examples, and the scope of the present invention is not limited to other shapes, numbers, and installation positions. It goes without saying that the present invention can be realized without departing from the above. Further, it goes without saying that the numerical values and the like used in the above-described processing are merely examples, and the present invention can be realized even with other numerical values.

  As mentioned above, although this invention was demonstrated in detail using embodiment, the above-mentioned description is only the illustration of this invention in all the points, and does not intend to limit the range. It goes without saying that various improvements and modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. In addition, it is to be understood that the terms used in the present specification are used in the meaning normally used in the art unless otherwise specified. Thus, unless defined otherwise, all technical and technical terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. In case of conflict, the present specification, including definitions, will control.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Game machine 2 ... Game board 4 ... Display 5 ... Frame member 6 ... Image display part 7 ... Movable accessory 8 ... Board lamp 20 ... Game area 21 ... 1st start opening 22 ... 2nd start opening 23 ... Grand prize Mouth 24 ... Normal winning port 25 ... Gate 26 ... Discharge port 27 ... Electric tulip 31 ... Handle 32 ... Lever 33 ... Stop button 34 ... Eject button 35 ... Speaker 36 ... Frame lamp 37 ... Production button 38 ... Production key 39 ... Dish 43 ... Lock part 100 ... Main control part 101, 201, 301, 401, 501, 601 ... CPU
102, 202, 302, 402, 502, 602 ... ROM
103, 203, 303, 403, 503, 603 ... RAM
111a ... 1st start port switch 111b ... 2nd start port switch 112 ... Electric tulip opening / closing part 113 ... Gate switch 114 ... Grand prize opening switch 115 ... Grand prize opening / closing part 116 ... Normal prize opening switch 200 ... Launch control part 211 ... Launching device 300 ... payout control unit 311 ... payout drive unit 400 ... production control unit 404 ... RTC
500 ... Image sound control unit 600 ... Lamp control unit DI ... Decorative pattern GI ... Gauge image MI ... Meter image

Claims (4)

Production control means for controlling the production of the game;
Production execution means for executing a predetermined production based on an instruction from the production control means;
Operating means that can be operated by the player,
The production execution means
Based on the fact that there was an operation on the operation means in the operation reception period, which is a period for receiving an operation on the operation means, an operation corresponding effect according to the operation can be executed,
A gaming machine that restricts execution of the operation-compatible effect based on an operation performed on the operation means in the last specific period of the operation reception period. The production execution means
The first signal can be transmitted to the effect control means based on an operation on the operation means during the operation acceptance period,
The production control means includes
Based on receiving the first signal from the effect execution means, a second signal instructing execution of the operation-compatible effect is transmitted to the effect execution means,
The production execution means
Based on the reception of the second signal from the effect control means, the operation corresponding effect is executed,
2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein transmission of the first signal to the effect control unit is restricted based on an operation performed on the operation unit in the last specific period of the operation reception period. . The production execution means
Based on the operation received during the operation reception period, the first signal is transmitted to the effect control means,
The production control means includes
Based on the reception of the first signal from the effect execution means, a second signal instructing execution of the operation-compatible effect can be transmitted to the effect execution means,
The production execution means
Based on the reception of the second signal from the effect control means, the operation corresponding effect is executed,
The production control means includes
The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein transmission of the second signal to the effect executing unit is restricted based on reception of the first signal in the last specific period of the operation reception period. The production execution means
Based on the operation received during the operation reception period, the first signal is transmitted to the effect control means,
The production control means includes
Based on receiving the first signal from the effect execution means, a second signal instructing execution of the operation-compatible effect is transmitted to the effect execution means,
The production execution means
Based on the reception of the second signal from the effect control means, the operation-compatible effect can be executed,
The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein execution of the operation corresponding effect is limited based on receiving the second signal after the operation reception period has elapsed.

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