JP2017143865A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine which can grasp a storage state in data storage means for data to be used for processing by processing means.SOLUTION: A game machine comprises: processing means 120 for executing processing in accordance with a game on the basis of a program; data storage means 122 capable of storing data; determination program storage means 121 capable of storing a determination program being a program which the processing means 120 can execute and for determining whether or not a storage state in the data storage means 122 for data to be used for processing by the processing means 120 satisfies a predetermined output condition; and output means which, when it is determined that an output condition is satisfied by execution of the determination program, outputs that effect.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 13

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine capable of playing games.

  Conventionally, as a gaming machine, in a slot machine that performs a pseudo game effect using a pseudo reel, the memory area used by the processor that performs control is saved by partially sharing the processing of the normal reel and the pseudo reel. There is something like that (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Japanese Patent Laying-Open No. 2015-16100

  However, in Patent Document 1, an unused memory that can be used for processing can be reduced depending on the control situation even though the used memory area (data storage unit) used by the processor (processing unit) can be reduced. There are cases where the unused storage capacity (resource), which is an area, is insufficient and processing cannot be executed. Such a shortage of resources does not surface until the processing cannot be executed, and therefore there is a problem that it is impossible to grasp that the storage state is insufficient before the processing cannot be executed.

  The present invention has been made paying attention to such problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine capable of grasping the storage state of data used by the processing means in the data storage means.

In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, a gaming machine according to claim 1 of the present invention provides:
A gaming machine capable of playing games (for example, pachinko gaming machine 1),
Processing means (for example, a portion in which the production control CPU 120 performs a control operation according to the program) that executes processing associated with the game based on the program;
Data storage means capable of storing data (for example, a portion where the RAM 122 provides the work area of the CPU 120 for effect control);
A program that can be executed by the processing means, and a storage state (for example, a remaining amount of resources) in the data storage means of data used by the processing means for processing is determined according to a predetermined output condition (for example, insufficient resources) There is a possibility that resources will be insufficient due to the fact that the remaining amount of resources tends to decrease in the short term in the last five fluctuation displays in the state of level 1 before level 1 Or when there is a tendency for the remaining amount of resources to decrease continuously over a relatively long period of the current fluctuation display, 20 times, 15 times, 10 times, 5 times, and so on. Determination program storage means (for example, the ROM 121 stores the RC program) that can store a determination program (for example, an RC program) for determining whether or not And 憶 to that part),
When it is determined that the output condition is satisfied by the execution of the determination program, output means for outputting that fact (for example, the effect control CPU 120 outputs the external output data in S116 of the resource check process shown in FIG. 13). Part that executes processing and outputs an external output signal),
It is characterized by having.
According to this feature, it is possible to grasp the storage state in the data storage unit of the data used by the processing unit for processing.

The gaming machine of means 1 of the present invention is the gaming machine according to claim 1,
The processing means for executing the determination program (for example, the RC program) (for example, the portion where the effect control CPU 120 executes the RC program) makes a determination at a predetermined determination timing (for example, the effect control CPU 120 has (The part for checking and checking the remaining amount of resources when it is determined in S100 of the resource check process shown in FIG. 13 that a change start command has been received)
It is characterized by that.
According to this feature, the processing load of determination can be reduced.

The gaming machine of means 2 of the present invention is the gaming machine described in means 1,
As for the output condition, among the storage capacities of the data storage means (for example, the RAM 122), the unused storage capacity that is not used by the processing means (for example, the effect control CPU 120) decreases at a plurality of determination timings. Or the trend output condition is that the used storage capacity used by the processing means is increased at a plurality of determination timings (for example, the resource remaining amount is short-term in the last five fluctuation displays) If there is a possibility that the resource may be insufficient due to a tendency to decrease to the minimum, or in the modified example, the resource usage may tend to increase in the short term in the last five fluctuation displays. Part that outputs an external output signal if there is
It is characterized by that.
According to this feature, it is possible to grasp that the unused storage capacity is insufficient before the unused storage capacity is insufficient.

A gaming machine according to means 3 of the present invention is the gaming machine according to means 2,
The processing means for executing the determination program (for example, the RC program) (for example, the portion where the effect control CPU 120 executes the RC program) determines that the determination timing period is a first period ( For example, a first tendency determination (a period in which a change start command is received once) (for example, a portion where the effect control CPU 120 executes the first tendency determination process in S103 of the resource check process shown in FIG. 13). FIG. 13 shows the second tendency determination (for example, the CPU 120 for effect control is shown in FIG. 13), which is the second period (for example, the period every time the change start command is received five times) that is longer than the first period. And at least one of the second tendency determination process in S108 of the resource check process) For example, when one of the first tendency determination condition and the second tendency determination condition is established, portions for performing the output of the external output signal)
It is characterized by that.
According to this feature, the determination accuracy based on the tendency output condition can be increased.

The gaming machine of means 4 of the present invention is the gaming machine described in means 3,
The processing means for executing the determination program (for example, the RC program) (for example, the portion where the effect control CPU 120 executes the RC program) performs the first tendency determination (for example, the effect control CPU 120 has the resources shown in FIG. 13). The part where the first tendency determination process is executed in S103 of the check process) and the second tendency determination (for example, the part where the effect control CPU 120 executes the second tendency determination process in S108 of the resource check process shown in FIG. 13) ) Is executed, and it is determined by either one of the first tendency determination and the second tendency determination that the unused storage capacity is continuously decreasing (for example, the resource remaining amount continuously) Or when it is determined that the used storage capacity is continuously increasing (for example, in the modification example, (When it is determined that the resource usage is increasing), it is determined that the output condition is satisfied (for example, the effect control CPU 120 determines that the first condition establishment flag in S114 of the resource check process shown in FIG. A part for determining whether either the second condition satisfaction flag or the third condition satisfaction flag is set)
It is characterized by that.
According to this feature, it is possible to cope with various trends in which the unused storage capacity is insufficient, and it is possible to improve the determination accuracy.

The gaming machine of means 5 of the present invention is the gaming machine described in means 3,
The processing means for executing the determination program (for example, the RC program) (for example, the portion where the effect control CPU 120 executes the RC program) performs the first tendency determination (for example, the effect control CPU 120 has the resources shown in FIG. 13). The part where the first tendency determination process is executed in S103 of the check process) and the second tendency determination (for example, the part where the effect control CPU 120 executes the second tendency determination process in S108 of the resource check process shown in FIG. 13) ), And in both the first tendency determination and the second tendency determination, it is determined that the unused storage capacity is continuously decreasing (for example, the resource remaining amount is continuously decreased). When it is determined that the storage capacity is decreasing), or when it is determined that the used storage capacity is continuously increasing (for example, continuously in the modification) When the source usage is determined to increase, it is determined that the output condition is satisfied (for example, in the modified example, both the first tendency determination condition and the second tendency determination condition are satisfied) The part that executes the output of the external output signal only when
It is characterized by that.
According to this feature, it is possible to prevent unnecessary output from being executed due to a decrease in unused storage capacity or an increase in used storage capacity for a short period of time.

A gaming machine according to means 6 of the present invention is the gaming machine according to any one of claims 1, means 1 to means 5,
The output condition is that a storage capacity of the data storage means (for example, the RAM 122), which is unused by the processing means (for example, the effect control CPU 120), is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold (for example, The remaining amount of resources is equal to or less than a threshold value of level 1), or the used storage capacity used by the processing means is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold value (for example, the resource usage in the modification is equal to or greater than a threshold value of a predetermined level) It is characterized by including the threshold condition.
According to this feature, it can be ascertained that the unused storage capacity is equal to or smaller than the threshold value or the used storage capacity is equal to or greater than the threshold value.

The gaming machine of means 7 of the present invention is the gaming machine according to any one of claims 1, 1 to 6,
Of the storage capacity of the data storage means (for example, the RAM 122), the processing means (for example, the production control CPU 120) is unused storage capacity (for example, the remaining amount of resources), or the processing means is used. Specifying means (for example, the resource usage amount in the modification) (for example, the effect control CPU 120 adds the unused memory areas in the resource check process S101 shown in FIG. A part for identifying the remaining amount, or a part for identifying the resource usage by adding up the memory areas in use in the modification)
The output means (for example, the part in which the production control CPU 120 executes the external output data output process and outputs an external output signal in S116 of the resource check process shown in FIG. 13) is unused specified by the specifying means. The storage capacity or the used storage capacity can be output (for example, the part in which the data of the resource buffers 1 and 2 are included and output in the external output signal)
It is characterized by that.
According to this feature, the unused storage capacity or the used storage capacity of the data storage means can be grasped.

The gaming machine of means 8 of the present invention is the gaming machine according to any one of claims 1, means 1 to means 7,
Error determination means (for example, the production control CPU 120 executes the internal error check process shown in FIG. 9) for determining the occurrence of internal errors that do not hinder the progress of the game (for example, error at reset, sound error and VDP error). To determine the occurrence of internal errors)
The output means (for example, the part in which the production control CPU 120 executes the external output data output process in S116 of the resource check process shown in FIG. 13 and outputs an external output signal) is the internal error determined by the error determination means. Can be output (for example, the part that is output by including the internal error type data in the external output signal)
It is characterized by that.
According to this feature, it is possible to grasp the occurrence of an internal error that does not surface due to the fact that the progress of the game is not hindered.

  In addition, this invention may have only the invention specific matter described in the claim of this invention, and has a structure other than this invention specific matter with the invention specific matter described in the claim of this invention. It may be a thing.

It is the front view which looked at the pachinko gaming machine from the front. It is a block diagram which shows the circuit structural example of a pachinko gaming machine. It is a figure which illustrates an effect control command. It is a figure which illustrates a fluctuation pattern. It is explanatory drawing which shows a display result determination table. (A) is a figure which shows the structural example of a jackpot classification determination table, (B) is a figure which shows the contents of various jackpots. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the timer interruption process for game control. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a special symbol process process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of production control main processing. It is a flowchart which shows an example of production control process processing. (A) is a figure which shows the structural example of the resource buffer 1, (B) is a figure which shows the structural example of the resource buffer 2, (C) is a figure which shows a resource remaining amount threshold value table. It is a figure which shows an example of the external output data output outside. It is a figure which shows an example of a resource check process.

  A mode for carrying out a gaming machine according to the present invention will be described below based on examples.

  First, the overall configuration of a pachinko gaming machine 1 that is an example of a gaming machine will be described. In the following description, the front side of FIG. 1 will be described as the front (front, front) side of the pachinko gaming machine 1, and the back side will be described as the rear (back) side. In the present embodiment, the front surface of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is an opposing surface that faces the player when the pachinko gaming machine 1 is viewed from the player side. In the description of each step of the flowchart, for example, a portion described as “step S1” may be abbreviated as “S1”. In this embodiment, “execution” and “execution” are synonymous.

  FIG. 1 is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment and shows an arrangement layout of main members. The pachinko gaming machine 1 (hereinafter sometimes abbreviated as a gaming machine) is roughly divided into a gaming board 2 (gauge board) that constitutes a gaming board surface, and a gaming machine frame 3 (base frame) that supports and fixes the gaming board 2. ). The game board 2 is formed with a substantially circular game area surrounded by guide rails. In the game area, a game ball is launched from a ball striking device and is shot.

  A first special symbol display 4A and a second special symbol display 4B are provided at a predetermined position of the game board 2 (in the example shown in FIG. 1, on the right side of the game area). Each of the first special symbol display 4A and the second special symbol display 4B is composed of, for example, 7-segment or dot matrix LEDs (light-emitting diodes). Special symbols (also referred to as “special graphics”), which are a plurality of types of identification information (special identification information) that can be identified, are displayed so as to be variable (also referred to as variable display or variable display). For example, the first special symbol display 4A and the second special symbol display 4B each variably display a plurality of types of special symbols composed of numbers indicating "0" to "9", symbols indicating "-", and the like. To do. The special symbols displayed on the first special symbol display 4A and the second special symbol display 4B are composed of numbers indicating "0" to "9", symbols indicating "-", and the like. For example, a plurality of types of lighting patterns in which the combination of the one to be turned on and the one to be turned off are different as long as they are set in advance as a plurality of types of special symbols. Hereinafter, the special symbol variably displayed on the first special symbol display 4A is also referred to as "first special symbol", and the special symbol variably displayed on the second special symbol indicator 4B is "second special symbol". Also called.

  Both the first special symbol display 4A and the second special symbol display 4B are formed in a square shape, for example. Note that the type of the first special figure and the type of the second special figure may be the same (for example, both a number indicating “0” to “9” and a symbol indicating “−”). May be different. Further, each of the first special symbol display 4A and the second special symbol display 4B may be configured to variably display numbers (or two-digit symbols) indicating, for example, “00” to “99”. In addition, each segment indicating “00” to “99” may be configured to variably display “00” to “99” with a display device that is randomly arranged in an invisible manner.

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

  As an example, in the display area of the effect display device 5, “left”, “middle”, and “right” effect symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R are arranged. Then, in response to the start of one of the variation of the first special symbol on the first special symbol display 4A and the variation of the second special symbol on the second special symbol display 4B, “Left Variation of the effect symbols (for example, scroll display in the vertical direction) is started in each of the effect symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R of “middle” and “right”. Thereafter, in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” effect symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R of the effect display device 5, the confirmed effect symbols (final stop symbols) are stopped and displayed.

  As described above, in the display area of the effect display device 5, the special game using the first special figure on the first special symbol display 4A or the second special figure on the second special symbol display 4B is used. In synchronism with the special figure game, a plurality of types of effect symbols that can be identified are displayed in a variable manner, and a definite effect symbol is derived and displayed (or simply referred to as “derivation”). Note that the variable display may be temporarily stopped during the dynamic display of the effect symbol.

  For example, eight kinds of symbols (alphanumeric characters “1” to “8” or Chinese characters) are displayed in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” effect symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R. It may be any combination of numbers, English letters, eight character images related to a predetermined motif, a combination of numbers, letters, symbols, and character images. Character images may be, for example, people, animals, other objects, or , A decorative image showing a symbol such as a character or other arbitrary figure). A corresponding symbol number is attached to each of the effect symbols. For example, symbol numbers “1” to “8” are assigned to alphanumeric characters indicating “1” to “8”, respectively. The production symbols are not limited to eight types, and any number may be used as long as an appropriate number of combinations such as a combination of “big hit” and a combination of “out of” can be configured (for example, seven types or 9 types).

  After the variation display of the effect symbols is started, the “left”, “middle”, and “right” effect symbol display areas 5L, 5C, 5R or the effect symbols are displayed until the definite effect symbols are derived and displayed. In at least one of the display areas 5L, 5C, 5R (for example, the “left” effect symbol display area 5L, etc.), for example, the symbols are sequentially flowed from the top to the bottom from the smallest to the largest. When the effect display with the maximum symbol number (for example, “8”) is displayed, the effect symbol with the minimum symbol number (for example, “1”) is displayed.

  A first reserved memory display area 5D and a second reserved memory display area 5U are set in two places on the left and right of the display area of the effect display device 5. In the first hold memory display area 5D and the second hold memory display area 5U, the hold memory display for displaying the variable hold memory number (the special figure hold memory number) corresponding to the special figure game is specified.

  Here, the suspension of the variable display corresponding to the special game is that the game ball passes through the first start winning opening formed by the normal winning ball apparatus 6A and the second starting winning opening formed by the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B. Generated based on the start winning by entering (entering). In other words, the start condition (also referred to as “execution condition”) for executing the variable display game such as the special figure game or the variable display of the effect symbol is established, but the variable display game based on the start condition established previously is being executed. When the start condition for allowing the start of the variable display game is not satisfied due to the fact that the pachinko gaming machine 1 is controlled to the big hit gaming state, the variable display corresponding to the established start condition is suspended. Done. In the present embodiment, the stored storage display generated based on the start winning when the game ball passes (enters) the first start winning opening is a round white display, and the game ball passes through the second starting winning opening ( The on-hold storage display generated based on the start winning due to the entry is a round blue display.

  In the following description, the display in the first hold storage display area 5D and the second hold storage display area 5U may be collectively referred to as hold display.

  In the example shown in FIG. 1, the first hold for displaying the number of special figure hold memories in an identifiable manner on the upper and lower parts of the first special symbol display 4A and the second special symbol display 4B together with the hold storage display area. A display 25A and a second hold display 25B are provided. The first hold indicator 25A displays the first special figure hold memory number so that it can be specified. The second hold indicator 25B displays the second special figure hold memory number so that it can be specified. The variable display holding memory number obtained by adding the first special figure holding memory number and the second special figure holding memory number is also referred to as a total holding memory number.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  Speakers 8L and 8R for reproducing and outputting sound effects and the like are provided at the upper left and right positions of the gaming machine frame 3, and a game effect lamp 9 is provided at the periphery of the game area.

  In the lower right position of the gaming machine frame 3, a hitting operation handle (operation knob) operated by a player or the like for launching a game ball toward the game area is provided. For example, the hitting operation handle adjusts the resilience of the game ball according to the operation amount (rotation amount) by the player or the like. The hitting operation handle only needs to be provided with a single shot switch or a touch ring (touch sensor) for stopping the driving of a shooting motor included in the hitting ball shooting device.

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

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

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

  The main board 11 includes, for example, a game control microcomputer 100, a switch circuit 110 that receives detection signals from various switches for game ball detection and transmits the detection signals to the game control microcomputer 100, and the game control microcomputer 100. A solenoid circuit 111 for transmitting a solenoid drive signal to the solenoids 81 and 82 is mounted.

  The effect control board 12 is a sub-side control board independent of the main board 11, receives the control signal transmitted from the main board 11 via the relay board 15, and produces the effect display device 5, speakers 8L, 8R. In addition, various circuits for controlling the production operation by the production electrical parts such as the game effect lamp 9 are mounted. That is, the production control board 12 produces the production operations such as the display operation of the production display device 5, all or part of the sound output operation from the speakers 8 </ b> L and 8 </ b> R, and all or part of the on / off operation of the game effect lamp 9. A function of determining the control content for causing the electrical component to execute a predetermined performance operation is provided.

  The sound control board 13 is a control board for sound output control provided separately from the effect control board 12, and based on commands from the effect control board 12, control data (sound number, volume level, etc.), etc. A processing circuit for executing audio signal processing for outputting audio from 8L and 8R is mounted. The lamp control board 14 is a control board for lamp output control provided separately from the effect control board 12, and lighting / extinguishing of the game effect lamp 9 and the like based on commands and control data from the effect control board 12. A processing circuit for driving is mounted.

  As shown in FIG. 2, wiring for transmitting detection signals from the gate switch 21, the first start port switch 22 </ b> A, the second start port switch 22 </ b> B, and the count switch 23 is connected to the main board 11. Note that the gate switch 21, the first start port switch 22A, the second start port switch 22B, and the count switch 23 may have any configuration that can detect a game ball, such as a sensor. That's fine. Further, the main board 11 includes a first special symbol display 4A, a second special symbol display 4B, a normal symbol display 20, a first hold indicator 25A, a second hold indicator 25B, and a general figure hold indicator 25C. Wiring for transmitting a command signal for performing display control such as is connected.

  A control signal transmitted from the main board 11 toward the effect control board 12 is relayed by the relay board 15. The control command transmitted from the main board 11 to the effect control board 12 via the relay board 15 is, for example, an effect control command transmitted and received as an electric signal.

  FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the contents of the effect control command used in the present embodiment. The effect control command has, for example, a 2-byte structure, and the first byte indicates MODE (command classification), and the second byte indicates EXT (command type). Note that the command form shown in FIG. 3 is an example, and other command forms may be used. Here, XXH indicates an unspecified hexadecimal number and may be a value corresponding to the instruction content by the effect control command.

  The command 8001H is a first change start command that specifies the start of change in the first special symbol display 4A. The command 8002H is a second change start command that specifies the start of change in the second special symbol display 4B. The command 81XXH is a variation pattern designation command for designating a variation pattern (variation time), and different EXT data is set according to the designated variation pattern.

  The command 8CXXH is a change display result notification command, and is an effect control command for designating the change display result. Note that the command 8C00H is a command indicating a pre-determined result indicating that it is “off”. The command 8C01H is a command for notifying that the big hit type is “big hit big hit A”. The command 8C02H is a command for notifying that “big hit” is the big hit type and “probable big hit B”. The command 8C03H is a command for notifying that the big hit type is “big hit” and the big hit type is “non-probable big hit”.

  The command 8F00H is a symbol confirmation command for designating the stop of variation (determination) of the effect symbol. The command 95XXH is a gaming state designation command that designates the gaming state at that time.

  The command A0XXH is a jackpot start designation command (also referred to as a “fanfare command”) that designates the start of a jackpot gaming state. The command A1XXH is a big prize opening open notification command for notifying that the big prize opening is in an open state and that the big prize opening is in an open state in the big hit gaming state. The command A2XXH is a notification command after opening the big prize opening notifying that the big prize opening has been changed from the open state to the closed state and that the big prize opening is in the closed state in the big hit gaming state. Command A3XXH is a jackpot end designation command for designating the end of the jackpot gaming state.

  It should be noted that the notification command during the opening of the big prize opening or the notification command after the big prize opening is opened, for example, the number of rounds executed in the normal opening big hit state or the short-term opening big hit state (for example, “1” to “16” or “1” to “5”). EXT data corresponding to ")" is set.

  The command B100H is a first start port winning designation command for notifying that the first start condition has been established by winning a first start winning port formed by the normal winning ball device 6A. The command B200H is a second start port winning designation command for notifying that the second start condition is established by winning a second start winning port formed by the normally variable winning ball apparatus 6B.

  The command C1XXH is a first reserved memory count notification command for notifying the first special figure reserved memory count. The command C2XXH is a second reserved memory number notification command for notifying the second special figure reserved memory number.

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

  As an example, in the game control microcomputer 100, various processes for controlling the progress of the game are executed by the CPU 103 executing the program read from the ROM 101.

  In the main board 11, various random number values such as a random value MR1 for determining a special figure display result, a random value MR2 for determining a jackpot type, a random value MR3 for determining a variation pattern, a random value MR4 for determining a normal figure display result, etc. Numerical data is controlled to be countable. The random number circuit 104 only needs to be able to count numerical data indicating some or all of these random number values MR1 to MR4. For the random number values that are not counted by the random number circuit 104, the CPU 103 performs various types of software by software. It is only necessary to count by updating the numerical data.

  FIG. 4 shows the variation pattern of this embodiment. In this embodiment, a plurality of variation patterns as shown in FIG. 4 are prepared in advance. Specifically, in the present embodiment, among the cases where the variation display result is “out of”, corresponding to each of the case where the variation display mode of the production symbol is “non-reach” and “reach”, A plurality of variation patterns are prepared in advance in response to a case where the variation display result is “big hit”.

  The reach effect of normal reach is executed for the jackpot variation pattern, which is a variation pattern corresponding to the case where the variation display result is “big hit”, and the reach variation pattern when the variation display mode of the effect design is “reach”. There are a normal reach fluctuation pattern and a super reach fluctuation pattern in which a reach expression of super reach such as super reach α and super reach β is executed. In this embodiment, only one type of normal reach variation pattern is provided. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and a plurality of normal reach α, normal reach β,... The normal reach fluctuation pattern may be provided. Also, in the super reach variation pattern, three or more super reach variation patterns such as super reach γ... In addition to super reach α and super reach β may be provided.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the special figure fluctuation time of the normal reach fluctuation pattern in which the reach effect of the normal reach in the present embodiment is executed is set shorter than the super reach α and super reach β that are the super reach fluctuation patterns. . In addition, regarding the special figure variation time of the super reach variation pattern in which super reach reach production such as super reach α and super reach β in this embodiment is performed, the variation pattern in which super reach β super reach production is performed. However, the special figure variation time is set longer than the variation pattern in which the super reach production of the super reach α is executed.

  In the present embodiment, as described above, since the variation display result is “big hit” in the order of super reach β, super reach α, and normal reach, the big hit expectation is set higher. In the reach variation pattern, the longer the variation time, the higher the degree of expectation for jackpot.

  In addition to the game control program, the ROM 101 included in the game control microcomputer 100 shown in FIG. 2 stores various selection data and table data used for controlling the progress of the game. . For example, the ROM 101 stores data constituting a plurality of determination tables and setting tables prepared in advance for the CPU 103 to perform various determinations, determinations, and settings. Further, the ROM 101 stores a plurality of types of table data constituting a plurality of command tables used for the CPU 103 to transmit control signals serving as various control commands from the main board 11, and a variation pattern as shown in FIG. Table data constituting a variation pattern table to be stored is stored.

  FIG. 5 shows a configuration example of a display result determination table stored in the ROM 101. In this embodiment, a common display result determination table is used for the first special figure and the second special figure as the display result determination table. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the first special figure is not limited thereto. Separate display result determination tables may be used for the second special figure.

  In the display result determination table, before the fixed special symbol is derived and displayed in the special symbol game of the first special symbol display 4A or the second special symbol display 4B, the variation display result is set to the big hit gaming state. It is a table referred to in order to determine whether to control based on random number value MR1.

  In the display result determination table of the present embodiment, a numerical value (compared to the random value MR1 depending on whether the gaming state is the normal state, the short time state (low probability state), or the probability variation state (high probability state) ( (Judgment value) is assigned to the special figure display result of “big hit” or “out of place”.

  In the display result determination table, determination data is assigned to a determination result as to whether or not to control the big hit gaming state with the special figure display result as “big hit”. Specifically, in the present embodiment, when the gaming state is the probability variation state (high probability state), more judgment values than the normal state or the short time state (low probability state) are characteristic of “big hit”. Assigned to diagram display results. With this, in the probability variation state (high probability state) in which probability variation control is performed, the probability that the special figure display result will be determined to be “big hit” and controlled to the big hit gaming state in the normal state or the short time state (low probability state) Compared to (about 1/300 in the present embodiment), the probability that the special figure display result is determined to be “big hit” and controlled to the big hit gaming state becomes higher (about 1/30 in the present embodiment). That is, in the display result determination table, when the gaming state is a probability change state (high probability state), the probability that it is determined to control to the big hit gaming state is higher than when the gaming state is a normal state or a short time state. The determination data is assigned to the determination result of whether or not to control the big hit gaming state.

  In the ROM 101, when it is determined to control the jackpot gaming state, the jackpot type determination table referred to for determining one of a plurality of jackpot types based on the random number value MR2 and the random value MR3 are stored. A variation pattern determination table for determining the variation pattern as one of the variation patterns shown in FIG. 4 is also stored.

  In the setting example shown in FIG. 6A, the judgment values for the big hit types of “probable big hit A” and “probable big hit B” depending on whether the fluctuation special chart is the first special chart or the second special chart. The assignment of is different. That is, when the fluctuation special chart is the second special figure, there is no allocation to the big hit type of “probability big hit B” with a small number of rounds, and “probability big hit B” does not occur in the fluctuation display of the second special figure. Therefore, the number of prize balls obtained is small in the gaming state in which the game balls are likely to enter the second starting prize opening formed by the normally variable prize-winning ball apparatus 6B by the high opening control accompanying the time reduction control. "Can be prevented from occurring frequently, resulting in a decrease in entertainment interest. Note that the setting example shown in FIG. 6 (A) is merely an example, and a jackpot type other than that shown in FIG. 6 (A) may be provided. What is necessary is just to set suitably.

  In addition, the variation pattern determination table stored in the ROM 101 is preliminarily determined to be “out of” with the big hit variation pattern determination table used when “big hit” is determined in advance. A variation pattern determination table for loss that is sometimes used is prepared in advance. In the present embodiment, the reach fluctuation pattern is more easily determined when the big hit is made than the loss, and the possibility (reliability or expectation) of the big hit is higher when the reach occurs. In addition, even if the fluctuation pattern of the same reach, super reach is more likely to be a big hit (reliability and expectation) than normal reach, the fluctuation pattern of super reach β even if the same super reach However, the determination value corresponding to each variation pattern is set in the variation pattern determination table for deviation from the variation pattern determination table for big hits so that the probability (reliability and expectation) of the probability variation big hit becomes high.

  The variation pattern determination table for loss includes a plurality of tables corresponding to the total number of reserved memories and the short time state, and the total number of reserved memories corresponds to 2 to 4 according to the number of reserved memories and the short time state. Short non-reach shift variation pattern (PA1-2), short non-reach shift variation pattern (PA1-3) corresponding to a total number of pending storages of 5 to 8, and short non-reach shift variation pattern By determining (PA1-4) according to the total number of reserved memories and the gaming state (short time state), the larger the total number of reserved memories, the easier the short variation pattern is executed, that is, the fluctuation per unit time By increasing the number of times, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of useless start winnings, and during non-time control (during short-time state), the non-reach deviation of the shortening changes more than when the time control is not executed. Pattern (PA1-4) that is often determined by increasing the number of times of the change per unit time, can reduce the time to the next jackpot, and to be able to improve the extended game player's sense of.

  The RAM 102 included in the game control microcomputer 100 shown in FIG. 2 may be a backup RAM that is partially or entirely backed up by a backup power source from a predetermined power supply board. That is, even if the power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 1 is stopped, a part or all of the contents of the RAM 102 is stored for a predetermined period (until the capacitor as the backup power supply is discharged and the backup power supply cannot be supplied). When the power is turned on again, the game state, that is, data corresponding to the control state of the game control means (special process flag, etc.) and data indicating the progress state of the game such as data indicating the number of unpaid prize balls are taken over. do it.

  In such a RAM 102, a game control data holding area (not shown) is provided as an area for holding various data used for controlling the progress of the game. In the game control data holding area, a first winning prize (first starting prize) is generated by a game ball passing (entering) through a first starting prize opening formed by the normal winning ball apparatus 6A, but has not started yet. The first special figure storage unit for storing the random number value MR1, the random number value MR2, the numerical data indicating the random number value MR3, and the like and the ordinary variable winning ball apparatus 6B are formed as the holding data of the special figure game using the special figure. Random value MR1 is used as the hold data for the special figure game using the second special figure which has been started (second start prize) but has not yet started although the game ball has passed (entered) the second starting prize opening. The state can be updated in accordance with the progress status of the game such as the second special figure reservation storage unit for storing numerical data indicating the random value MR2 and the random value MR3, the general figure reservation storage unit, the special process flag, etc. Multiple types of flags The game control flag setting unit, the game control timer setting unit provided with various timers used for controlling the progress of the game, and the count value used for controlling the progress of the game are counted. A game control counter setting unit provided with a plurality of types of counters for playing, a game control buffer setting unit provided with various buffers for temporarily storing data used for controlling the progress of the game, and It has.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the effect control board 12 is provided with an effect control CPU 120 that performs a control operation according to a program, a ROM 121 that stores an effect control program, fixed data, and the like, and a work area for the effect control CPU 120. RAM 122, display control unit 123 including a VDP (video display processor) that executes processing for determining the control content of the display operation in effect display device 5, and effect control CPU 120 are disordered independently. A random number circuit 124 for updating numerical data indicating numerical values and an I / O 125 are mounted.

  As an example, in the effect control board 12, when the effect control CPU 120 executes an effect control program read from the ROM 121, various processes for controlling the effect operation by the effect electric parts are executed. For example, as a process for controlling the effect operations, the effect control CPU 120 receives an input of various signals from the outside of the effect control board 12 via the I / O 125, and the effect control CPU 120 via the I / O 125. External output for outputting an external output signal in the form of serial communication data shown in FIG. 12 to an external device such as a debugging terminal (for example, an in-circuit emulator) used for debugging, for example, outside the effect control board 12 Data output processing (see FIG. 13) is also performed.

  Note that, on the side of the effect control board 12, as with the main board 11, for example, various random values (also referred to as effect random numbers) are set for determining the execution or non-execution of various effects and the type of effects. Has been. In addition to the program for effect control, the ROM 121 also determines various table data used for controlling the effect operation, for example, execution of various effects, non-execution, and the type of effect. Table data constituting a plurality of determination tables, pattern data constituting an effect control pattern corresponding to each variation pattern, and the like are stored.

  The ROM 121 stores an RC (resource check) program for performing a resource check process shown in FIG. 9 and an EC (error check) program for performing an internal error check process. These RC (resource check) The effect control CPU 120 executes resource check processing and internal error check processing based on the program and EC (error check) program. In this embodiment, the RC (resource check) program and the EC (error check) program are stored (stored) in the ROM 121. However, the present invention is not limited to this. At least one of these programs may be stored (stored) in the internal ROM of the CPU 120 for effect control.

  Among the effect control patterns, the effect control pattern at the time of special symbol variation displays the variation of the effect symbol during the period from the start of the variation of the special symbol until the finalized special symbol is derived and displayed corresponding to each variation pattern. It consists of data indicating the contents of control of various production operations such as operations and reach production.

  The RAM 122 is provided with an effect control data holding area (not shown), for example, as an area for holding various data used for controlling the effect operation. The effect control data holding area includes an effect control flag setting unit provided with a plurality of types of flags that can be updated according to the effect operation state, the effect control command transmitted from the main board 11, and the like, and various effect operations. An effect control timer setting unit and an effect control counter setting unit provided with a plurality of types of timers and counters used for controlling the progress of the image, and data used for controlling the progress of various effect operations are temporarily stored. And an effect control buffer setting unit in which various buffers for storage are provided.

  In the present embodiment, the storage area (buffer number “1-1”) corresponding to the maximum value (for example, “4”) of the total reserved memory number of the first special figure reserved memory is stored in the predetermined area of the production control buffer setting unit. To "1-4") and storage areas (buffer numbers "2-1" to "2-" corresponding to the maximum value (for example, "4") of the total reserved memory number of the second special figure reserved memory). 4 ”is provided, and data constituting a pending storage buffer capable of specifying the status of the pending storage at that time is stored, and the first pending storage display is based on the data in the pending storage buffer. The hold display of the area 5D and the second hold storage display area 5U is displayed.

  Next, the operation (action) of the pachinko gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment will be described. In the main board 11, when power supply from a predetermined power supply board is started, the game control microcomputer 100 is activated, and the CPU 103 executes a predetermined process as a game control main process. When the game control main process is started, the CPU 103 performs necessary initial settings after setting the interrupt disabled. In this initial setting, for example, the RAM 102 is cleared. Also, register setting of a CTC (counter / timer circuit) built in the game control microcomputer 100 is performed. Thereby, thereafter, an interrupt request signal is sent from the CTC to the CPU 103 every predetermined time (for example, 2 milliseconds), and the CPU 103 can periodically execute timer interrupt processing. When the initial setting is completed, an interrupt is permitted and then loop processing is started. In the game control main process, a process for returning the internal state of the pachinko gaming machine 1 to the state at the time of the previous power supply stop may be executed before entering the loop process.

  When the CPU 103 executing such a game control main process receives an interrupt request signal from the CTC and receives an interrupt request, it executes a game control timer interrupt process shown in the flowchart of FIG. When the game control timer interrupt process shown in FIG. 7 is started, the CPU 103 first executes a predetermined switch process, thereby the gate switch 21, the first start port switch 22A, the second start port through the switch circuit 110. The state of detection signals input from various switches such as the switch 22B and the count switch 23 is determined (S11). Subsequently, by executing predetermined main-side error processing, abnormality diagnosis of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is performed, and if necessary, warning can be generated according to the diagnosis result (S12). Thereafter, predetermined information output processing is executed (S13).

  Next, a game random number update process for updating at least a part of the game random numbers such as the random number values MR1 to MR4 by software is executed (S14). Thereafter, the special symbol process shown in FIG. 8 is executed (S15).

  Subsequent to the special symbol process, the display operation on the normal symbol display 20 (for example, turning on / off the segment LED) is controlled to display the variation of the normal symbol and the tilt of the movable wing piece of the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B. Normal symbol process processing for performing operation setting and the like is executed (S16). Thereafter, by executing a command control process, a control command is transmitted (output) from the main board 11 to a sub-side control board such as the effect control board 12 (S17).

  FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the special symbol process. In this special symbol process, first, a start winning determination process is executed (S21). Then, according to the value of the special figure process flag provided in the game control flag setting unit, one of the processes of S22 to S29 is selected and executed.

  In the start winning process of S21, it is determined whether or not there is a first start prize or a second start prize by the first start port switch 22A or the second start port switch 22B. MR2 and MR3 are extracted and stored in the top position of the empty entry in the first special figure holding storage section when the first starting prize is received, and the second special figure is reserved when the second starting prize is obtained. Store at the top of the empty entry in the storage.

  The special symbol normal process of S22 is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is “0”. In the special symbol normal process, it is determined whether or not to start the special symbol game based on the presence / absence of pending data. Further, based on the numerical data indicating the random value MR1, it is determined (predetermined) whether or not the variation display result is “big hit” before the variation display result is derived and displayed. Furthermore, a confirmed special symbol (either a big hit symbol or a missing symbol) is set corresponding to the variation display result. Then, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “1”.

  The variation pattern setting process of S23 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is “1”. The variation pattern setting process includes a process of determining a variation pattern as one of a plurality of types using numerical data indicating the random value MR3 based on a result of prior determination as to whether or not the variation display result is “big hit”. It is included. Then, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “2”.

  The special symbol variation process of S24 is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is “2”. The special symbol variation process includes a process for setting the special symbol on the first special symbol display 4A and the second special symbol display 4B, and an elapsed time after the special symbol starts variation. It includes processing to measure When the special symbol variation elapsed time reaches the special symbol variation time, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to “3”.

  The special symbol stop process of S25 is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is “3”. The special symbol stop process includes a process for performing a setting for stopping and displaying (deriving) a fixed special symbol that is a variation display result of the special symbol on the first special symbol display 4A or the second special symbol display 4B. It is. Then, it is determined whether or not the big hit flag is on. If the big hit flag is on, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “4”. On the other hand, when the big hit flag is off, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “0”.

  The big hit release pre-processing of S26 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is “4”. The pre-opening process for the big hit includes a process for starting the execution of the round in the big hit gaming state and setting the big winning opening to the open state based on the fact that the fluctuation display result is “big hit”. include. Specifically, the upper limit of the period during which the winning a prize opening is in the open state is set to “29 seconds”, and the opening number of the winning a prize opening which is the upper limit number of times for executing the round is set to “non-probable big hit” or “probable change”. If it is a “big hit A”, it is set to “16 times”. On the other hand, when the big hit type is “probability big hit B”, the number of times of opening of the big winning opening that is the upper limit number of times to execute the round is set to “5 times”. At this time, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “5”.

  The big hit release process of S27 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is “5”. In the big hit opening process, the winning prize opening is based on the process of measuring the elapsed time since the big winning opening is in the open state, the measured elapsed time, the number of game balls detected by the count switch 23, and the like. The process etc. which determine whether it became the timing which returns to a closed state from an open state are included. Then, when returning the special winning opening to the closed state, after performing processing for stopping the supply of the solenoid driving signal to the special winning opening door solenoid 82, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “6”. .

  The big hit release post-processing in S28 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is “6”. In this post-hit opening process, the process of determining whether or not the number of rounds in which the winning opening is open has reached the maximum number of opening of the big winning opening, or the maximum number of opening of the big winning opening has been reached. In some cases, processing for performing a setting for transmitting a jackpot end designation command is included. When the number of round executions has not reached the maximum value of the number of times of winning the special winning opening, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “5”. The value of the process flag is updated to “7”.

  The big hit end processing of S29 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is “7”. The jackpot end process includes a process of waiting until a waiting time corresponding to a period in which an ending effect for notifying the end of the jackpot gaming state is executed. When such setting is performed, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “0”.

  In the big hit end process, the big hit type buffer value stored in the game control buffer setting unit is read, and whether the big hit type is “non-probable big hit”, “probable big hit A”, or “probable big hit B”. Identify. If it is determined that the identified big hit type is not “non-probable variation big hit”, setting for starting the probability variation control (setting of the probability variation flag) is performed.

  In addition, when the specified big hit type is “non-probable variable big hit”, the setting for starting the time reduction control (in advance corresponding to the setting of the time reduction flag and the upper limit value of the special game that can be executed during the time reduction control). A predetermined count initial value (“100” in the present embodiment) is set in the short-time counter.

  Next, the operation of the effect control board 12 will be described. First, when the power is turned on, the effect control CPU 120 starts executing the main process shown in FIG. In the main processing, first, initialization processing is performed for clearing the RAM area, setting various initial values, and initializing a timer for determining the activation control activation interval (for example, 2 ms) (S51). Thereafter, the effect control CPU 120 proceeds to a loop process for monitoring the timer interrupt flag (S52). When the timer interrupt occurs, the effect control CPU 120 sets a timer interrupt flag by the timer interrupt process. If the timer interrupt flag is set (turned on) in the main process, the effect control CPU 120 clears the flag (S53) and executes the following process.

  The effect control CPU 120 first performs command analysis processing (S54). In the command analysis process, it is analyzed which command (see FIG. 3) is the command transmitted from the main board 11 stored in the reception command buffer. The effect control command transmitted from the game control microcomputer 100 is received by an interrupt process based on the effect control INT signal and stored in a buffer area formed in the RAM. And the process etc. which set the flag according to the received production control command are performed.

  Next, the effect control CPU 120 performs effect control process processing (S55). In the effect control process, the process corresponding to the current control state (effect control process flag) is selected from the processes corresponding to the control state, and display control of the effect display device 5 is executed.

  Next, an effect random number update process (S56) for updating a counter value for generating an effect random number such as a jackpot symbol determination random number, a state in which resources are insufficient, or a state in a previous stage that is insufficient as shown in FIG. Resource check processing (S57) for determining whether or not there is a high possibility that a resource shortage will occur, and internal error check processing (S58) for determining whether or not a predetermined internal error has occurred ), And then the process proceeds to S52.

  FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the effect control process (S55) of the effect control main process. In the effect control process, the effect control CPU 120 first displays the hold memory display in the first hold memory display area 5D and the second hold memory display area 5U of the effect display device 5 in accordance with the stored contents of the hold memory buffer. A pending display update process for updating to display is executed (S72).

  Thereafter, the effect control CPU 120 performs any one of S73 to S79 according to the value of the effect control process flag. In each process, the following process is executed.

  Fluctuation pattern designation command reception waiting process (S73): It is confirmed whether or not a variation pattern designation command is received from the game control microcomputer 100. Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not a variation pattern designation command is received in the command analysis process. If the change pattern designation command has been received, the value of the effect control process flag is changed to a value corresponding to the effect symbol change start process (S74).

  Effect symbol variation start processing (S74): Control is performed so that the variation of the effect symbol is started. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the effect symbol changing process (S75).

  Production symbol variation processing (S75): Controls the switching timing of each variation state (variation speed) constituting the variation pattern and monitors the end of the variation time. When the variation time ends, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the effect symbol variation stop process (S76).

  Effect symbol variation stop processing (S76): Based on the reception of the effect control command (symbol confirmation command) for instructing all symbols to stop, control is performed to stop the variation of the effect symbol and derive and display the display result (stop symbol). Do. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the jackpot display process (S77) or the variation pattern designation command reception waiting process (S73).

  Jackpot display process (S77): After the end of the variation time, control is performed to display a screen for notifying the effect display device 5 of the occurrence of a jackpot. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the big hit game processing (S78).

  Big hit game processing (S78): Control during the big hit game is performed. For example, when receiving a special command during opening of the special prize opening or a designation command after opening the special prize opening, display control of the number of rounds in the effect display device 5 is performed. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the jackpot end effect process (S79).

  Big hit end effect process (S79): In the effect display device 5, display control is performed to notify the player that the big hit game state has ended. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the variation pattern designation command reception waiting process (S73).

  Next, the resource buffer 1, the resource buffer 2, and the resource remaining amount threshold value table that are set in the effect control buffer setting unit of the RAM 122 and used in the resource check process (S57) will be described.

  The resource buffer 1 is a buffer used for the determination in the first tendency determination process (S103) described later, and, as shown in FIG. It is possible to store the remaining amount of resources at the time of receiving the change start command up to the previous time.

  That is, the number 5 entry stores the resource remaining amount specified when the change start command is received one time before, and the number 4 entry is specified when the change start command is received twice before. The remaining resource amount is stored. The entry of number 3 stores the remaining resource amount specified when the change start command is received three times before. The entry of number 2 stores the change start command four times before. The resource remaining amount specified at the time of receiving is stored, and the number 1 entry stores the resource remaining amount specified at the time of receiving the change start command five times before. Therefore, when a new change start command is received, the remaining resource amount stored in the entry of number 2 is shifted to the entry of number 1, and the remaining resource amount stored in the entry of number 3 is changed to number 2. The remaining resource amount stored in the No. 4 entry is shifted to the No. 3 entry, and the remaining resource amount stored in the No. 5 entry is shifted to the No. 4 entry. The resource remaining amount specified at the time is stored in the entry of number 5.

  Further, the resource buffer 2 is a buffer used for determination in the second tendency determination process (S108) described later, and as shown in FIG. 11B, in the five storage areas from number 1 to number 5, It is possible to store the remaining resource amount specified every time five change start commands are received.

  That is, the number 5 entry stores the remaining amount of the resource at the time when the check timing for every five fluctuation displays is approached, and the number 4 entry stores the resource at the time before the check timing twice. The remaining amount is stored, the number 3 entry stores the remaining amount of the resource at the time three times before the check timing, and the number 2 entry stores the resource at the time four times before the check timing. The remaining amount is stored, and the entry of number 1 stores the remaining amount of the resource at the time five times before the check timing. Therefore, when the check timing is updated every five fluctuation displays, the remaining amount of the resource stored in the number 2 entry is shifted to the number 1 entry and the resource stored in the number 3 entry. The remaining amount is shifted to the entry number 2, the remaining resource amount stored in the entry number 4 is shifted to the entry number 3, and the remaining resource amount stored in the entry number 5 is changed to the entry number 4. The remaining resource amount that has been shifted and specified at the new check timing is stored in the entry of number 5.

  Further, in the resource remaining amount threshold value table, as shown in FIG. 11C, the resource remaining amount threshold value corresponding to each level (level 1 and level 2) used in the determination of S111 and S112 described later is shown. They are stored in association with level 1 (caution) and level 2 (warning).

  Next, the resource check process of this embodiment executed in S57 will be described with reference to FIG.

  In the resource check process, the effect control CPU 120 first determines whether or not the variation start command reception flag is set, that is, whether or not it is the variation start time when the variation start command is received (S100). In this embodiment, it is determined whether or not the variation start time is based on whether or not the variation start command reception flag is set, but the value of the effect control process flag corresponds to the effect symbol variation start process. It may be determined whether or not it is at the start of fluctuation depending on whether or not it is a value to be changed.

  If the fluctuation start command reception flag is not set, the process is terminated. On the other hand, when the variation start command reception flag is set, the remaining amount of memory is specified by adding the unused memory areas among the memory areas that can be used by the effect control CPU 120 for the control process (S101).

  Then, the resource buffer 1 is updated (S102). Specifically, as described above, the resource remaining amount data stored in the entries of Nos. 2 to 5 in the resource buffer 1 are shifted to the entries of Nos. 1 to 4, and the entry of No. 5 is moved to S101. Stores the data of the remaining amount of the resource newly specified in.

  Next, a first tendency determination process, which is a short-term tendency determination, is executed based on each resource remaining amount data stored in the updated resource buffer 1 (S103). Specifically, it is satisfied that each resource remaining amount stored in the resource buffer 1, which is the first tendency determination condition, is smaller than the resource remaining amount stored in the immediately preceding entry. Whether or not the first tendency determination condition is satisfied is determined based on whether or not (S104). That is, when the remaining resource amount stored in the entry of each number N is represented by SR (N), the relationship SR (1)> SR (2)> SR (3)> SR (4)> SR (5) Whether or not is satisfied is determined.

  If the first tendency determination condition is not satisfied, the process proceeds to S106. On the other hand, if the first tendency determination condition is satisfied, the first condition satisfaction flag is set (S105), and then the process proceeds to S106.

  In S106, it is determined whether or not the determination timing of the trend determination 2, that is, the newly started variable display is a variable display that is a multiple of 5 as the number of variable displays from the start of business. Whether or not the variable display is a multiple of 5 as the number of variable displays from the start of business may be determined by the value of the variable display counter to which the number of variable displays from the start of business is cumulatively added. , A determination timing counter to which a determination value of “5” is set is provided, and 1 is decremented and updated every time a variable display is started. When the determination timing counter becomes 0, the tendency is determined. It may be determined that the determination timing is 2, and “5” may be reset in the determination timing counter.

  If it is not the determination timing of trend determination 2, the process proceeds to S111. On the other hand, when it is the determination timing of the trend determination 2, the resource buffer 2 is updated (S107).

  Specifically, as described above, the resource remaining amount data stored in the entries of numbers 2 to 5 in the resource buffer 2 are shifted to the entries of numbers 1 to 4, and the entry of number 5 is moved to S101. Stores the data of the remaining amount of the resource newly specified in.

  Next, a second tendency determination process, which is a long-term tendency determination, is executed based on each resource remaining amount data stored in the updated resource buffer 2 (S108). Specifically, it is satisfied that each resource remaining amount stored in the resource buffer 2, which is the second tendency determination condition, is smaller than the resource remaining amount stored in the immediately preceding entry. Whether or not the second tendency determination condition is satisfied is determined based on whether or not That is, if the remaining resource amount stored in the entry of each number N is represented by LR (N), the relationship of LR (1)> LR (2)> LR (3)> LR (4)> LR (5) Whether or not is satisfied is determined.

  If the second tendency determination condition is not satisfied, the process proceeds to S111. On the other hand, if the second tendency determination condition is satisfied, the second condition satisfaction flag is set (S110), and then the process proceeds to S111.

  In S111, whether the resource remaining amount at that time specified in S101 is 30% or less, which is a threshold value stored in association with level 1 in the resource remaining amount threshold value table of FIG. That is, it is determined whether or not the remaining amount of the resource is lower than the level 1 threshold that requires attention.

  If the remaining resource amount at that time is not less than or equal to the threshold level 1, the process proceeds to S114. On the other hand, if the remaining resource amount at that time is equal to or less than the threshold value of level 1, the process proceeds to S112, and the level corresponding to the remaining resource amount at that time is specified. Specifically, when the remaining resource amount at that time is 10% or less which is the threshold of level 2, it is specified as level 2, and when the remaining resource amount at that time is not less than 10%, level 1 is specified. Then, after setting the third condition satisfaction flag (S113), the process proceeds to S114.

  In S114, it is determined whether any of the first condition satisfaction flag, the second condition satisfaction flag, or the third condition satisfaction flag is set, and the first condition satisfaction flag, the second condition satisfaction flag, and the third condition satisfaction are determined. If none of the flags are set, the process ends.

  On the other hand, if any one of the first condition satisfaction flag, the second condition satisfaction flag, and the third condition satisfaction flag is set, the process proceeds to S115, and the set condition satisfaction flag (first condition satisfaction flag, After clearing either the second condition satisfaction flag or the third condition satisfaction flag, external output data output processing is executed (S116).

  In this external output data output process, serial data in a predetermined format including the data header A shown in FIG. 12 is output. Specifically, following the data header A having a predetermined bit length, the buffer data including the data of the resource buffers 1 and 2, the threshold determination result which is the level specified in S 112, and the first tendency determination condition are Serial data including a tendency determination 1 result that is a determination result of whether or not the second tendency determination condition is satisfied and a trend determination 2 result that is a determination result of whether or not the second tendency determination condition is satisfied are externally output.

  As described above, the serial data output externally in the external output data output process can specify that the determination result of the threshold determination result, the trend determination 1 result, or the trend determination 2 result has been made in the external terminal. It becomes possible to grasp the data in the resource buffers 1 and 2 at the time.

  In other words, in this embodiment, when the remaining amount of the resource is 30% or less of the level 1 before the resource becomes insufficient, or the remaining amount of the resource is short-term in the last five fluctuation displays. If there is a possibility of resource shortage due to the tendency to decrease, or the remaining amount of resources continues for a relatively long period of 20 times, 15 times, 10 times, 5 times before, and the current fluctuation display. In any case where there is a possibility that the resource may be insufficient due to a tendency to decrease, the serial data with the data header A described above may be output to the outside, so that these resources may be insufficient It is possible for the external device to grasp that there is a shortage of resources and an abnormal operation occurs.

  Next, the internal error check process in S58 will be described. In the internal error check process, in this embodiment, it is determined whether or not three internal errors have occurred. In the present embodiment, three internal errors are determined. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the number and types of internal errors to be determined may be determined as appropriate.

  The three internal errors are specifically a reset error, a sound error, and a VDP error. The error at the time of resetting is an error that is determined when no command is transmitted from the main board 11 even if a predetermined time elapses when the reset is executed without destroying the memory. The sound error is an error determined when the sound control processor mounted on the sound control board 13 outputs a sound error command. The VDP error is an error that is determined when the VDP included in the display control unit 123 outputs a VDP error command.

  In this embodiment, the VDP and the voice control processor are illustrated as separate integrated circuits (ICs). However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the VDP and voice control processor are used. The processor may be a single integrated circuit (IC).

  The sound error includes an error in which no sound is output from the speakers 8L and 8R and an error in which abnormal sound is output. In addition, it is an error that may cause a minute noise that the player may not notice while outputting the sound related to the game, and will not interfere with the progress of the game, but it is not a normal operation error. Including. Thus, the sound error includes not only an error at a glance that an abnormality has occurred, but also an error (such as an error that the player does not notice) that does not surface due to the fact that the game does not interfere with the progress of the game.

  In addition, the VDP error is an error in which no image is displayed on the effect display device 5 (such as an error resulting in a blackout screen in which no image is displayed) or an error in an abnormal display screen (the moving image is displayed while the moving image is displayed). Error that freezes). In addition, it is an error that causes a minute noise that the player does not notice while displaying an image related to the game, and does not interfere with the progress of the game, but an error that is not normal operation. Including. As described above, the VDP error includes not only an error at a glance that an abnormality has occurred, but also an error (such as an error that is not noticed by the player) that does not appear as a result of not affecting the progress of the game.

  When the occurrence of these internal errors is specified by the internal error check process, as shown in FIG. 12, a data header B is added to the internal error type data corresponding to the specified error type. By externally outputting the serial data, the occurrence of these internal errors and the type of the internal error that has occurred can be grasped by an external terminal or the like.

  In the present embodiment, only the internal error type is output to the outside, but the present invention is not limited to this, and status data indicating the error status is included in the error command for the sound error and VDP error. If included, these status data may also be output externally together with the internal error type data.

  As described above, according to the pachinko gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, the effect control CPU 120 executes the external output data output process in S116 of the resource check process shown in FIG. The resource state of the RAM 122 used for processing by the CPU 120 can be grasped.

  Further, according to the present embodiment, when the effect control CPU 120 determines that the change start command is received in S100 of the resource check process shown in FIG. The processing load of determination can be reduced.

  In addition, according to the present embodiment, when there is a possibility that the resource may be insufficient because the remaining amount of the resource tends to decrease in the short term in the last five fluctuation displays, the resource can be output by outputting an external output signal. It is possible to grasp that there is a shortage of resources before the shortage.

  In addition, according to the present embodiment, when one of the first tendency determination condition and the second tendency determination condition is satisfied, the output of the external output signal is executed, so that the determination accuracy based on the tendency output condition is improved. Can be increased.

  Further, according to the present embodiment, whether the first condition establishment flag, the second condition establishment flag, or the third condition establishment flag is set in S114 of the resource check process shown in FIG. By determining whether or not, it is possible to cope with various trends in which resources are insufficient, and it is possible to improve the determination accuracy.

  In addition, according to the present embodiment, in the modified example, the output of the external output signal is executed only when both the first tendency determination condition and the second tendency determination condition are satisfied, so that the short-term It is possible to prevent the output from being executed unnecessarily due to the decrease in the unused storage capacity only during the period.

  Further, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to reliably grasp that the resource is equal to or less than the threshold value by executing the output of the external output signal when the remaining resource amount is equal to or less than the threshold value of level 1.

  Also, according to the present embodiment, the remaining amount of resources can be grasped by outputting the data of the resource buffers 1 and 2 included in the external output signal.

  Further, according to the present embodiment, the internal error type data is included in the external output signal and is output, so that it is possible to grasp the occurrence of the internal error that does not appear due to the fact that the progress of the game is not hindered.

  Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described with reference to the drawings, the specific configuration is not limited to these embodiments, and modifications and additions within the scope of the present invention are included in the present invention. It is.

  For example, in the above-described embodiment, an example in which the output of the external output signal is executed when one of the first tendency determination condition and the second tendency determination condition is satisfied is illustrated. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and an external output signal may be output when other conditions are satisfied. For example, as a modified example, the output of the external output signal is executed only when both the first tendency determination condition and the second tendency determination condition are satisfied, so that the resource only for a short period of time can be obtained. It may be possible to prevent the external output from being executed unnecessarily due to a decrease in the remaining amount.

  In the above embodiment, when the remaining amount of resources is reduced, that is, when a predetermined condition for outputting an external output signal is satisfied, external output to an external device such as a debugging terminal used during debugging is performed. Although a signal is output, the present invention is not limited to this, and when a predetermined condition is satisfied, a notification display indicating that the resource remaining amount has decreased is performed on the effect display device 5. You may do it. Note that the state of the resource may be visualized.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, when the remaining amount of the resource is 30% or less of the level 1 before the resource becomes insufficient, or the remaining amount of the resource is short-term in the last five fluctuation displays. If there is a possibility of resource shortage due to the tendency to decrease, or the remaining amount of resources continues for a relatively long period of 20 times, 15 times, 10 times, 5 times before, and the current fluctuation display. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the resource is not limited to this. The external output signal may be output only when it is in a state of 30% or less of the level 1 before becoming insufficient. That is, in S114 of the resource check process shown in FIG. 13, only the third condition satisfaction flag may be determined.

  Moreover, although the said Example has illustrated the form which performs the output of an external output signal when either one of the 1st tendency judgment conditions and the 2nd tendency judgment conditions is satisfied, this invention does this. It is not limited to the above, and it is determined whether only one of the first tendency determination condition or the second tendency determination condition is satisfied, and the first tendency determination condition or the second tendency determination condition is satisfied. Sometimes, an output of an external output signal may be executed.

  Moreover, in the said Example, although it determines using two types of tendency determination conditions, a 1st tendency determination condition and a 2nd tendency determination condition, this invention is not limited to this, Three types, The determination may be made using more types of tendency determination conditions.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, the buffer data including the data of the resource buffers 1 and 2 indicating the remaining amount of the resource is output in the state where it is included in the external output signal, but the present invention is limited to this. The external output signal may be output without including buffer data indicating the remaining amount of resources. Further, when the remaining resource amount is low, an external output signal may not be output. For example, when the remaining resource amount is recorded and the remaining resource amount is reduced, You may make it output the external output signal which recorded the time when the resource remaining amount became small by arbitrary operation after that, without giving an external output signal.

  In the above embodiment, it is determined that there is a possibility that the resource may be insufficient because the remaining amount of the resource tends to decrease at the five times of specifying the remaining amount of the resource. However, the present invention is not limited to this. The timing for specifying the remaining amount of the resource may be 6 times or more, or may be less than 5 times (2 to 4 times).

  In the above embodiment, it is determined that there is a possibility that the resource may be insufficient because the remaining amount of the resource tends to decrease at the five times of specifying the remaining amount of the resource. However, the present invention is not limited to this. Instead of this, the timing for identifying the remaining amount of the resource may be changeable according to the model or usage status of the pachinko gaming machine 1. For example, when an external device such as a debugging terminal is connected, the timing and number of times that the operator specifies the remaining resource amount may be arbitrarily set. In addition, in each period such as a period in which the notice effect is being executed or a period in which the demonstration effect is being executed, the timing and the number of times for specifying the remaining amount of the resource may be arbitrarily set.

  In the above embodiment, it is determined that there is a possibility that the resource may be insufficient because the remaining amount of the resource tends to decrease at the five times of specifying the remaining amount of the resource. However, the present invention is not limited to this. However, it may be determined whether there is a possibility of resource shortage by other methods. For example, when the remaining amount of resources is specified, the remaining amount of resources specified last time is compared with the remaining amount of resources specified this time. If the remaining amount of resources has decreased, “1” is set to the flag value for determination. When this determination is repeated and the determination flag value is “5”, that is, when the remaining resource amount has decreased continuously five times, there is a possibility that the resource may be insufficient. May be determined.

  In the above-described embodiment, it is determined that there is a possibility that the resource may be insufficient because the remaining amount of the resource tends to decrease at five times regardless of the remaining amount of the resource. However, the number of times of specifying the resource remaining amount may be changed according to the resource remaining amount. For example, when the remaining resource amount is 30% or more, it is not determined that the remaining resource amount tends to decrease. When the remaining resource amount is less than 30%, the remaining resource amount decreases at five timings. When it is determined that there is a possibility that the resource may be insufficient due to the tendency, and the remaining resource amount is less than 20%, the resource may be insufficient due to the tendency that the remaining resource amount decreases at three times. If the remaining amount of the resource is less than 10%, it may be determined that there is a possibility that the resource may be insufficient because the remaining amount of the resource tends to decrease at two timings. In other words, the condition for determining that there is a possibility that the resource may be insufficient as the remaining amount of the resource decreases may be severe. When the remaining amount of the resource is 30% or more, the remaining amount of the resource tends to decrease continuously in the relatively long period of the present fluctuation display 20 times, 15 times, 10 times, 5 times before. If the remaining resource is less than 30%, the remaining resource tends to decrease in the short-term in the last five fluctuation displays. It may be determined that there is a possibility. That is, the tendency determination condition may be made severe as the remaining amount of resources decreases.

  In the above embodiment, the internal error check process (S58) is executed. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the internal error check process is not executed, that is, a predetermined internal error. It is not necessary to determine whether or not this has occurred. Further, even if it is determined that a predetermined internal error has occurred, various error commands may not be output.

  Further, in the above embodiment, the threshold of the remaining amount of resources used in the determination of S111 and S112 of the resource check process shown in FIG. 13 is two steps of level 1 (caution) and level 2 (warning). The invention is not limited to this, and the threshold of the remaining amount of resources may be either level 1 or level 2. Note that the level of the remaining resource threshold may be determined using three or more levels.

  In the above embodiment, the timing for checking the remaining amount of the resource is exemplified as the time when the change starts. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the remaining amount of the resource is set at a timing other than the start of the change. You may make it check. For example, the remaining amount of resources may be checked at the end of the change, or the remaining amount of resources may be checked when starting a prize. Further, the remaining resource amount may be checked every predetermined period at the start of execution, during execution, or at the end of the effect such that the remaining amount of resources such as the notice effect is reduced. Further, the remaining amount of resources may be checked periodically at regular intervals regardless of fluctuation display, effects, etc.

  In the above embodiment, when checking the remaining amount of the resource, the remaining portion of the resource (memory) capacity is specified at a predetermined ratio (percentage (percent)). The invention is not limited to this, and the resource capacity (for example, the number of megabytes) may be specified when checking the remaining amount of the resource.

  In the above embodiment, the remaining amount of resources (unused storage capacity) is checked. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the usage amount of resources (used storage capacity) is checked. You may do it. For example, in a modification, an external output signal may be output when it is determined that the resource usage is continuously increasing. Further, an external output signal may be output when there is a possibility of resource shortage due to the tendency that the resource usage increases in the short term in the last five fluctuation displays. In addition, there is a possibility that the resource usage may be insufficient due to the tendency that the resource usage continuously increases during the relatively long period of the current fluctuation display 20 times before, 15 times before, 10 times before, 5 times before. In this case, an external output signal may be output. Further, an external output signal may be output when the resource usage is equal to or greater than a predetermined level threshold. Further, the effect control CPU 120 identifies the resource usage amount by adding up the memory areas being used in the resource check process, and the data of the identified resource usage amount is output in a state included in the external output signal. There may be.

  Rather than determining whether there is a possibility of resource shortage by checking the resource usage (used storage capacity), checking the remaining amount of resources (unused storage capacity) It is preferable to determine whether there is a possibility of resource shortage. For example, when the resource such as a memory is used 50% or more during the operation of the pachinko gaming machine 1, the value of the resource remaining amount is smaller than the value of the resource usage. That is, in the memory buffer used by the RC (resource check) program, storing the remaining resource value can reduce the capacity of the memory buffer used by the RC program, rather than storing the resource usage value. You will not have to consume resources. In addition, when the resource such as the memory is not used more than 50% during the operation of the pachinko gaming machine 1, the resource usage (usage storage capacity) may be checked, and the resource usage value is stored. In this case, the capacity of the memory buffer used by the RC program can be made smaller than storing the value of the remaining amount of resources, and resources can be saved.

  Moreover, in the said Example, although the RC (resource check) program and EC (error check) program are stored (memory | storage) in ROM121, the pachinko game machine 1 shipped from a manufacturing factory is illustrated, but this invention is The pachinko gaming machine 1 is not limited to this, and can store an RC program or an EC program in the ROM 121 when, for example, at a manufacturing factory, a debugging terminal or the like used for debugging is connected to perform inspection or the like. The RC program and the EC program may be deleted from the ROM 121 when shipped from the manufacturing factory.

  In the embodiment, the resource check process (S57) and the internal error check process (S58) are executed in the effect control process regardless of whether a debugging terminal or the like is connected to the pachinko gaming machine 1. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and only when a debugging terminal or the like is connected to the pachinko gaming machine 1, the resource check process (S57) and the internal error check process (S58) When the debugging terminal or the like is not connected to the pachinko gaming machine 1, the resource check process (S57) or the internal error check process (S58) may not be executed.

  Further, in the above embodiment, the pachinko gaming machine 1 is illustrated as an example of the gaming machine, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a predetermined number of gaming balls are inside the gaming machine. The number of loaned balls that are enclosed in a circulating manner and lent in response to a loan request by a player and the number of prize balls that are awarded in response to winnings are added, while the number of game balls used in the game is subtracted. The present invention can also be applied to so-called enclosed game machines that are stored in the memory. In these enclosed game machines, not the game ball but points and points are given to the player, so these points and points assigned correspond to the game value.

  Moreover, in the said Example, in order to notify the variation pattern which shows variation modes, such as variation time and the kind of reach production, to CPU120 for production control, the example which transmits one variation pattern designation | designated command when a variation is started. Although shown, the variation pattern may be notified to the effect control CPU 120 by two or more commands. Specifically, in the case of notifying by two commands, the CPU 103 uses the first command to indicate, for example, the variation time and variation mode before reaching reach (when not reaching, before the so-called second stop). The second command indicates the variation time and variation mode after reaching the reach (after the so-called second stop if the reach is not reached), such as the type of reach and the presence / absence of the re-lottery effect. A command may be transmitted. In this case, the effect control CPU 120 may perform effect control in variable display based on the variable time derived from the combination of two commands.

  The CPU 103 may notify the change time by each of the two commands, and the effect control CPU 120 may select a specific change mode executed at each timing. When two commands are sent, the two commands may be transmitted within the same timer interrupt. After the first command is transmitted, a predetermined period elapses (for example, the next timer interrupt). The second command may be transmitted. Note that the variation mode indicated by each command is not limited to this example, and the order of transmission can be changed as appropriate. Thus, by notifying the variation pattern by two or more commands, the amount of data that must be stored as the variation pattern designation command can be reduced.

  Moreover, in the said Example, although the form which launches a game ball from the downward direction rather than a game area | region with the hitting ball launcher was illustrated, this invention is not limited to this, For example, the said hitting ball launcher is set to the pachinko gaming machine 1 The game ball may be launched from a position above the game area by providing it at a position above the game area.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, an example in which only a big hit that can acquire a large number of game balls is generated by opening a big winning opening in the big hit game, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the probability variation jackpot B is suddenly shortened due to the occurrence of the probability variation jackpot B by making the opening time of the big prize opening in the round game extremely short so that the player does not recognize that the big prize opening has been opened. It is good also as a sudden big hit that makes it appear as if it is in a probable state. In addition, when these probability variation big hits B are used as sudden big hits, a small hit that opens the big prize opening with the same opening pattern as the opening pattern of the big prize opening in the big hit game of the probability variation big hit B is provided. A state (so-called latent state) in which it is unknown whether the gaming state after the occurrence of the probable big hit B or the small hit is a high probability state or a low probability state may occur.

  Moreover, in the said Example, although the form which made the start prize opening two into the 1st start prize opening and the 2nd start prize opening is illustrated, this invention is not limited to this, A start prize opening It is good also as one, and it is good also as a start winning opening 3 or more.

  Moreover, in the said Example, although the form which made the special symbol two types, the 1st special figure and the 2nd special figure, is illustrated, this invention is not limited to this, Only one special symbol is included. The special symbol may be 3 or more.

  In the above embodiment, the first special symbol display 4A and the second special symbol display 4B each variably display a plurality of types of special symbols including the final stop symbol that is the display result, and then stop display the final stop symbol. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and after a variable display of a plurality of types of special symbols without including the final stop symbol that is the display result, the final stop symbol is stopped and displayed. It may be. That is, the final stop symbol as a display result may be a symbol different from the special symbol used for the variable display.

  The state advantageous to the player means a specific game state (big hit etc.) advantageous to a player that can acquire a lot of game media, and a plurality of types of specific game states (expected values of game media that can be acquired) ( A big hit with a different number of rounds), a high base state (time-short state) in which a winning ball payout condition is more easily established than in a normal gaming state, or a high-probability gaming state (high probability state) with a high probability of becoming the specific gaming state ), A high probability low base state (latency probability variation state), a special reach state (for example, super reach, etc.), a state in which the variation pattern is a variation pattern based on the jackpot variation pattern, and the like.

  In the embodiment, a pachinko gaming machine is applied as an example of a gaming machine. However, for example, a game can be started by setting a predetermined number of bets for one game using a gaming value. At the same time, one game is completed by deriving a variation display result to an effect display device capable of variably displaying a plurality of types of symbols that can each be identified, and a prize is awarded according to the variation display result derived to the effect display device This can also be applied to a slot machine that can generate

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Pachinko machine 4A 1st special symbol display 4B 2nd special symbol display 5 Production display device 11 Main board 12 Production control board 100 Game control microcomputer 120 Production control CPU

Claims (1)

A gaming machine capable of playing games,
Processing means for executing processing associated with a game based on a program;
Data storage means capable of storing data;
A program that can be executed by the processing unit, and that stores a determination program that determines whether or not the storage state of the data storage unit for data used by the processing unit satisfies a predetermined output condition Possible determination program storage means;
When it is determined by the execution of the determination program that the output condition is satisfied, output means for outputting that effect;
A gaming machine comprising: