JP2017148234A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine smaller in load on a player about performance setting.SOLUTION: A demonstration screen includes a master menu screen and a slave menu screen. The master menu screen is displayed as setting categories capable of changing "a background customization," "a game properties customization" and "a BGM customization," and each of performance during variable display of these setting categories can be initialized every setting category. To the master menu screen, "RESET" erasing the respective performance during variable display of the setting categories at a time is displayed when selection is established. Moreover, a selectable image that can identify selectable performance and an unselectable image that can identify performance that is yet unselectable can be displayed to a performance selection screen together.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 24

Description

  The present invention relates to gaming machines such as pachinko gaming machines and slot machines.

  Patent Document 1 discloses a game that displays a menu screen (the screen of FIG. 7D in Patent Document 1) that presents a plurality of effect setting categories each including one or more effect settings when changing the effect settings. A machine is disclosed.

JP 2014-144108 A

  In the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1, it is conceivable that the burden on the player regarding the effect setting becomes large.

  An object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that places less burden on the player regarding the effect setting.

(1) In order to achieve the above object, the gaming machine of the present invention
A gaming machine (for example, pachinko gaming machine 1 or the like) that can change the production setting (for example, production setting during variable display) by the player's action,
When changing the production settings, a plurality of production setting categories each including one or more production settings (for example, variable display production settings, etc.) (for example, setting categories such as “background customization”, “game characteristics customization”, etc.) Display means for displaying a menu screen for presenting (for example, the parent menu screen of FIG. 24C or FIG. 32),
It is configured to be able to initialize the effect setting for each of the plurality of effect setting categories by the player's action (for example, selection confirmation of “RESET” in the child menu screens of FIGS. 25 to 27 and the parent menu screen of FIG. 32). Such as “SET1” or “RESET2”)
The menu screen is an initialization item that collectively initializes the effect settings included in each of the plurality of effect setting categories when selected by the player's action (for example, “ RESET ”and“ ALL RESET ”on the parent menu screen of FIG. 32) are presented together with the plurality of effect setting categories (see, for example, the parent menu screen of FIG. 24C and FIG. 32).
The display means has an effect selection screen (such as a music selection screen in FIG. 38) on which an effect to be executed can be selected from a plurality of types of effects (such as a reproduction effect of a plurality of types of music in FIG. 38) in the effect setting category. Including an effect selection screen display means (image display device 5 or the like) capable of displaying
The effect selection screen includes selectable images (selectable music images 96, etc. in FIG. 38) that can specify selectable effects (first music to third music, etc. in FIG. 38) and effects that cannot be selected yet ( 38 can be displayed together with a non-selectable image (such as the non-selectable music image 97 of FIG. 38) that can identify the fourth music to the sixth music of FIG. 38 (FIG. 38, etc.).

According to this configuration, it is possible to reduce the burden on the player regarding the effect setting.
(2) In the gaming machine of (1) above,
The effect selection screen displays a part of the non-selectable image as the non-selectable image (for example, a part of the non-selectable image 97 indicated by diagonal lines in FIG. 38A is displayed as a gray image). You may do it.

  According to such a configuration, it becomes possible to recognize that there is an unselectable image, thereby improving the interest of the game.

(3) In the gaming machine of (1) or (2) above,
The production selection screen is
According to the player's action (selection switching operation by left / right operation of the stick controller 31A, etc.), a plurality of the selectable images and the non-selection images are arranged in a predetermined order (such as the circulation order of the music images shown in FIG. 38B). Possible images (such as the music image shown in FIG. 38B) can be scroll-displayed (such as the scroll display shown in the arrow direction in FIG. 38A),
An effect to be executed is specified (corresponding to the music to be reproduced) by displaying the selectable image in a predetermined display area (selection area 98 in FIG. 38). Specify the music image in the center of the screen)
The effect selection screen display means includes
An image corresponding to the next order (normal order) of the selectable images displayed and staying in a predetermined display area is the selectable image (for example, the selectable image 96 in FIG. 38A). When the second music image corresponding to the second music in the next circulation order is the selectable image 96 or the like, the selection corresponding to the next order is performed by scroll display corresponding to one operation by the player. In the low-speed scroll mode (FIG. 38 (E)) in which the scroll display is executed and the next selectable music image 96 is retained and displayed in the selection region 98 by S725 and S726 in FIG. Scroll display etc.)
The image corresponding to the next order (reverse order) of the selectable images that are staying displayed in the predetermined display area is the non-selectable image (for example, the next circulation order of the first music in FIG. 38A). When the sixth music image corresponding to the sixth music is a non-selectable image 97 or the like), the next display in the predetermined order is performed in the predetermined display area by scroll display corresponding to one operation by the player. After the non-selectable images are displayed, the selectable images corresponding to the next and subsequent orders of the non-selectable images in the next order are displayed in the predetermined display area by scroll display, regardless of the player's action. (In S723 and S724 in FIG. 39, the scroll display is executed to display the non-selectable music image 97 while displaying it temporarily, and finally, after the next circulation order is displayed. Like the scroll display in the high speed scroll mode (FIG. 38 (E)) staying displaying selectable music image 96.), It may be.

  According to such a configuration, the non-selectable image is once displayed in the predetermined display area, so that the player's interest in the production can be increased.

(4) In the gaming machine of (3) above,
In the effect selection screen, the scroll speed in the scroll display is between the selectable images (such as the first speed V1 in FIG. 38B) and between the non-selectable images (the first in FIG. 38B). 2 speed V2 etc.) (the scroll speed ratio “V1 <V2” etc. in FIG. 38C).

  According to such a structure, the interest of a game can be improved because scroll speeds differ.

(5) In the gaming machine of (4) above,
In the effect selection screen, the scroll speed in the scroll display is higher between the non-selectable images (speed V2 in FIG. 38B) than between the selectable images (such as the speed V1 in FIG. 38B). Etc.) may be higher (the scroll speed ratio “V1 <V2”, etc. in FIG. 38C).

  According to such a configuration, it is possible to reduce the period during which non-selectable images are displayed, thereby improving the interest of the game.

(6) In any of the gaming machines according to (3) to (5) above,
The effect selection screen may be configured such that the scroll speed in the scroll display is different depending on the player's operation period (an example in which the scroll speed is different depending on the player's operation period).

  According to such a structure, the interest of a game can be improved because a scroll speed changes with a player's operation | movement period.

(7) In any of the above gaming machines (1) to (6),
The production settings that can be changed by the player's action are the first production settings that are changed when the menu screen is displayed (for example, the variable display production settings), and whether or not the menu screen is displayed. A second production setting that can be changed regardless of the volume setting (for example, volume setting),
You may do it.

  According to this configuration, the second effect setting can be easily changed.

(8) In the gaming machine of (7) above,
When the initialization item is selected, the first effect setting is initialized and the second effect setting is not initialized (for example, see FIG. 17).
You may do it.

  According to this configuration, it is possible to prevent the initialization up to the second performance setting.

(9) In any of the above gaming machines (1) to (8),
The at least one production setting category includes production settings relating to the execution frequency of production (for example, “Premier Up” ON setting, etc.),
You may do it.

  According to this structure, an effect is performed with the frequency according to a player's liking, and the interest of a game can be improved.

(10) In any one of the above gaming machines (1) to (9),
When changing the production setting, the setting status of the production setting (for example, the volume image VL) can be displayed.
In the first state (for example, a state where the performance of super reach or big hit is not executed), the setting status is displayed in a visible manner regardless of the player's action,
In a second state (for example, a state in which an effect during a super reach or a big hit is executed) that is different from the first state and executes a specific effect (for example, an effect in a super reach or a big hit). The setting status is made difficult or invisible (for example, see FIGS. 28 and 35), and the setting status is determined based on the player's action until a predetermined condition (for example, elapse of a predetermined period) is satisfied. Can be displayed (see, for example, FIG. 29).
You may do it.

  According to this configuration, it is possible to display the setting state of the effect setting according to the player's request while suppressing a decrease in the effect of the specific effect, and to improve the interest of the game.

It is a front view of the pachinko gaming machine in this embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the various control boards etc. which were mounted in the pachinko game machine. It is an example of the effect control command transmitted from the main board to the effect control board. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a special symbol process process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a start winning determination process. It is a figure which shows the structure of a special figure holding | maintenance memory | storage part. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a special symbol normal process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a fluctuation pattern setting process. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of a fluctuation pattern. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of determination of the fluctuation pattern at the time of big hit. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of determination of the fluctuation pattern at the time of a loss. It is a figure which shows the processing content performed by command analysis processing. It is a flowchart which shows an example of production control process processing. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a volume display process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a variable display start waiting process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a demonstration execution process. It is a figure which shows the relationship between the menu screen at the time of selection confirmation of "RESET", and the object of initialization. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a variable display start setting process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of an effect execution determination process. It is a figure which shows the execution decision example of a premiere effect. It is a figure which shows the execution decision example of pattern production. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the production process during variable display. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a temporary display process. It is an example of the production screen during the demonstration display. It is an example of the production screen during the demonstration display. It is an example of the production screen during the demonstration display. It is an example of the production screen during the demonstration display. It is a figure which shows the example of an effect screen in the case of no volume button operation during super reach. It is a figure which shows the example of an effect screen in the case of volume button operation with super reach. It is a figure which shows the example of a display period of a volume image. It is a figure which shows the example of a display period of a volume image. It is a figure which shows the other example of a parent menu screen. It is a figure which shows the other example of an effect screen. It is a figure which shows the other example of an effect screen. It is a figure which shows the other example of an effect screen. It is a figure which shows the other example of an effect screen. It is a figure which shows the other example of an effect screen. It is a figure which shows the example of a music selection control. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a music selection process.

(Configuration of pachinko gaming machine 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention)
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 (gaming machine) 1 is roughly composed of a gaming board (gauge board) 2 constituting a gaming board surface and a gaming machine frame (base frame) 3 for supporting and fixing the gaming board 2. A game area is formed on the game board 2, and a game ball as a game medium is launched into a game area from a predetermined hitting device.

  In a predetermined position of the game board 2 (in the example shown in FIG. 1, the right side of the game area), a variable display (also called a special figure game) of special symbols (also called special figures) as a plurality of types of special identification information. A first special symbol display device 4A and a second special symbol display device 4B are provided. These consist of 7-segment LEDs and the like, and the special symbol may be a number indicating “0” to “9” or a lighting pattern such as “−”. The special symbol may include a pattern in which all LEDs are turned off.

  The special symbol variable display means that a plurality of types of special symbols are changed (updated display is possible) by update display or the like (the same applies to variable display of other symbols described later). At the end of the variable display, a predetermined special symbol is stopped as a display result (variable display result) (also referred to as a derivation display) (the same applies to other variable displays described later).

  In the following, the special symbol variably displayed on the first special symbol display device 4A is also referred to as "first special symbol", and the special symbol variably displayed on the second special symbol display device 4B is "second special symbol". Also called. Further, the special figure game of the first special figure is referred to as a “first special figure game”, and the special figure game of the second special figure is also referred to as a “second special figure game”.

  An image display device 5 is provided near the center of the game area on the game board 2. The image display device 5 is composed of, for example, an LCD (liquid crystal display device) or the like, and forms a display area for displaying various effect images.

  On the screen of the image display device 5, in synchronization with the first special symbol game or the second special symbol game, a plurality of types of decorative symbols (such as symbols indicating numerals) that are different from the special symbols can be changed. Display is performed. As an example, on the screen of the image display device 5, the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R are synchronized with the first special game or the second special game. , Variable display of decorative symbols (for example, vertical scroll display or update display) is performed.

  On the screen of the image display device 5, display areas 5HL and 5HR are arranged. In the display area 5HL, a first hold display image (here, a circle image) corresponding to the first special figure game whose execution is put on hold is displayed. In the display area 5HR, a second hold display image (here, a circle image) corresponding to the second special figure game whose execution is put on hold is displayed. Note that the number of special figure games held is also referred to as a special figure holding memory number. In particular, the number of holds of the first special figure game is referred to as a first special figure hold memory number. The number of holds of the second special figure game is referred to as the second special figure hold memory number. The number of first reserved display images indicates the first special figure reserved memory number, and the number of second reserved display images indicates the second special figure reserved memory number.

  The image display device 5 displays various effect images and the like. In this embodiment, in particular, a demonstration screen (see FIG. 24 and the like) is displayed, and a volume image VL indicating the current volume is displayed. Is also displayed.

  In addition, a first hold indicator 25A and a second hold indicator 25B are provided for displaying the special figure hold memory number in an identifiable manner. Each of the first hold indicator 25A and the second hold indicator 25B includes a plurality of LEDs, and displays the first special figure reserved memory number and the second special figure reserved memory number depending on the number of LEDs lit. To do.

  Below the image display device 5, an ordinary winning ball device 6A and an ordinary variable winning ball device 6B are provided.

  The normal winning ball device 6A forms a first start winning opening that is maintained in a certain open state in which a game ball can always enter by a predetermined ball receiving member, for example. When a game ball enters the first start winning opening, the first start port switch 22A (see FIG. 2) is turned on, thereby detecting the entry of the game ball (at this time, a predetermined number (for example, three) ) And the first special figure game can be started.)

  The normally variable winning ball apparatus 6B is an electric tulip type hand having a pair of movable wing pieces that are changed between a closed state in a vertical position and an open state in a tilted position by a solenoid 81 (see FIG. 2) for a normal electric accessory. The object (ordinary electric accessory) is provided, and the second start winning opening is formed. In the normal variable winning ball device 6B, for example, when the solenoid 81 is in the OFF state, the movable wing piece is in the vertical position, so that the tip of the movable wing piece comes close to the normal winning ball device 6A, and the second start winning prize The game ball enters a closed state where the game ball does not enter the mouth (the second start winning port is also referred to as a closed state). On the other hand, the normally variable winning ball apparatus 6B is in an open state in which the game ball can enter the second start winning opening by moving the movable wing piece to the tilted position when the solenoid 81 is in the on state (second ball). It is also said that the start winning opening is opened.) When a game ball enters the second start winning opening, the second start port switch 22B (see FIG. 2) is turned on, thereby detecting the entry of the game ball (at this time, a predetermined number (for example, three) ) And the second special figure game can be started.

  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 (see FIG. 2) that is used for the large winning opening door. Form a big prize opening as an area.

  As an example, in the special variable winning ball apparatus 7, when the solenoid 82 for the big prize opening door is in the off state, the big winning opening door closes the big winning opening and the game ball enters the big winning opening (for example, Cannot pass). On the other hand, in the special variable winning ball apparatus 7, when the solenoid 82 for the special prize opening door is in the ON state, the special prize opening door opens the big prize opening, so that the game ball can easily enter the special prize opening. Become.

  When a game ball enters the big prize opening, the count switch 23 (see FIG. 2) is turned on, and thereby the entry of the game ball is detected. At this time, a predetermined number (for example, 14) of game balls are paid out as prize balls. In this way, when game balls enter the grand prize winning opening, for example, more prize balls are paid out than when game balls enter the first start winning opening or the second start winning opening.

  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 made up of 7-segment LEDs and the like, and can display variable symbols of ordinary symbols (also called “ordinary symbols” or “ordinary symbols”) as a plurality of types of ordinary identification information different from the special symbols. Do. Such variable display of normal symbols is also referred to as a general game (also referred to as a “normal game”).

  The usual game is executed based on the fact that the game ball has passed through the passage gate 41. When the game ball passes through the passage gate 41, the gate switch 21 of FIG. 2 is turned on, and thereby the passage of the game ball is detected.

  Above the normal symbol display 20, a universal figure holding display 25 </ b> C is provided. The general figure hold display unit 25C is configured to include, for example, four LEDs, and displays the number of general figure hold storage, which is the number of general figure games that are being executed, by the number of lighted LEDs.

  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 the lowermost part of the game area, there is provided an out port through which game balls that have not entered any winning port are taken.

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

  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 as a game medium toward a game area by a hitting ball launching device is provided. Yes.

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

  A stick controller 31A that can be held and tilted by a player is attached to a member that forms the lower plate. The stick controller 31A includes a vibration unit (not shown) inside. The vibration of the vibration unit is transmitted to the player who holds the stick controller 31A via the stick controller 31A. A controller sensor unit 35A configured to include a tilt direction sensor unit that detects a tilt operation (operation) with respect to the operating rod and various circuits that vibrate the vibration unit is provided in the lower plate body inside the stick controller 31A. (See FIG. 2).

  The member that forms the upper plate is, for example, a push that allows the player to perform a predetermined instruction operation (operation) by a pressing operation or the like at a predetermined position on the front side of the upper surface of the upper plate body (for example, above the stick controller 31A). A button 31B is provided. The push button 31B only needs to be configured to be able to detect a predetermined instruction operation such as a pressing operation from a player mechanically, electrically, or electromagnetically. A push sensor 35B (see FIG. 2) that detects an operation on the push button 31B is also provided corresponding to the push button 31B.

  A volume button 31 </ b> C for changing the volume of effect sounds (including sound effects, BGM, songs, etc.) output when the effect is executed is provided at the lower left position of the gaming machine frame 3. A volume button sensor 35C (see FIG. 2) that detects an operation on the volume button 31C is also provided corresponding to the volume button 31C.

  In the pachinko gaming machine 1, for example, a main board 11, an effect control board 12, an audio control board 13, a lamp control board 14, and a relay board 15 as shown in FIG. 2 are mounted. In addition, various boards such as a payout control board, an information terminal board, a launch control board, and a power supply board are disposed on the back of the game board or the like in the pachinko gaming machine 1.

  The main board 11 is a control board on the main side, and transmits an effect control command to the effect control board 12 for controlling the progress of a game (execution of a special game, a normal game, etc.) in the pachinko gaming machine 1. Including the function of The main board 11 includes a game control microcomputer 100, a switch circuit 110, a solenoid circuit 111, and the like.

  The game control microcomputer 100 mounted on the main board 11 is, for example, a one-chip microcomputer, which includes a ROM (Read Only Memory) 101, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 102, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 103, and the like. And a random number circuit 104 and an I / O (Input / Output port) 105.

  As an example, the CPU 103 executes a program stored in the ROM 101 to realize the function of the main board 11 (control of the progress of the game). At this time, various data (data such as variation patterns and various determination tables) stored in the ROM 101 are used, and the RAM 102 is used as a main memory.

  The random number circuit 104 counts numerical data indicating various random number values (game random numbers) used for controlling the progress of the game in an updatable manner. The game random number may be updated by CPU 103 executing a predetermined computer program (updated by software).

  The I / O 105 includes, for example, an input port to which various signals are input and an output port for transmitting various signals.

  The switch circuit 110 is configured to detect detection signals (game media pass or not) from various switches for detecting a game ball (gate switch 21, start port switch (first start port switch 22A and second start port switch 22B), count switch 23). A detection signal indicating that the switch has entered and the switch is turned on is taken in and transmitted to the game control microcomputer 100.

  The solenoid circuit 111 sends a solenoid drive signal (for example, a signal for turning on the solenoid 81 or the solenoid 82) from the game control microcomputer 100 to the solenoid 81 for the ordinary electric accessory or the solenoid 82 for the grand prize opening door. To transmit.

  The effect control command transmitted from the main board 11 toward the effect control board 12 is relayed by the relay board 15.

  The effect control board 12 is a sub-side control board independent of the main board 11, receives the effect control command transmitted from the main board 11 via the relay board 15, and performs various operations based on the received effect control command. The function of executing the effects (including variable display of decorative symbols).

  On the effect control board 12, an effect control CPU 120, a ROM 121, a RAM 122, a display control unit 123, a random number circuit 124, and an I / O 125 are mounted.

  For example, the effect control CPU 120 executes the program stored in the ROM 121, thereby realizing the function of the effect control board 12 (execution of the effect). At this time, various data stored in the ROM 121 (data used for the effect control pattern and data such as various decision tables) are used, and the RAM 122 is used as the main memory.

  The display control unit 123 outputs a video signal of the effect image displayed on the image display device 5 based on the display control command from the effect control CPU 120, and displays the effect image on the image display device 5. As an example, the display control unit 123 may be equipped with a VDP (Video Display Processor), a CGROM (Character Generator ROM), a VRAM (Video RAM), or the like.

  The random number circuit 124 counts numerical data indicating various random numbers (rendering random numbers) used for controlling the rendering operation in an updatable manner. The effect random number may be updated (updated by software) when the effect control CPU 120 executes a predetermined computer program.

  The I / O 125 mounted on the effect control board 12 includes, for example, an input port for taking in an effect control command transmitted from the main board 11 and the like, and an output port for transmitting various signals.

  The sound control board 13 has a function of outputting sound (sound designated by the sound effect signal) from the speakers 8L and 8R based on the sound effect signal from the effect control board 12.

  The lamp control board 14 has a function of turning on / off the game effect lamp 9 (turning on / off according to the drive content indicated by the electrical decoration signal) based on the electrical decoration signal from the effect control board 12.

  The image display device 5 includes a display panel including a liquid crystal panel, an EL panel, and a driver circuit that drives the display panel. The video signal supplied from the display control unit 123 to the image display device 5 via the I / O 125 is input to the driver circuit. The driver circuit displays an image represented by the video signal on the display panel. As a result, various effect images and the like are displayed on the image display device 5.

  The controller sensor unit 35A detects an operation action (tilting operation) of the player with respect to the stick controller 31A, and supplies an operation detection signal corresponding to the detected operation action to the effect control board 12. Further, when a control signal is supplied from the effect control board 12 (effect control CPU 120), the controller sensor unit 35A vibrates the vibration unit in the stick controller 31A.

  The push sensor 35B detects a player's operation action (pressing operation) on the push button 31B, and supplies an operation detection signal indicating the detected operation action to the effect control board 12.

  The volume button sensor 35C detects a player's operation action (an operation of pressing one of the two buttons) on the volume button 31C, and supplies an operation detection signal indicating the detected operation action to the effect control board 12.

(Progress of games, progress of production, etc.)
A game medium (game ball) is launched toward the game area by a rotation operation by the player to the hitting operation handle provided in the pachinko gaming machine 1.

  When the game ball that has flowed down the game area passes through the passing gate 41, a normal game (variable display of normal symbols) is started. Note that when the usual game cannot be started, such as when another usual game is already being executed or during the following release control, the execution of the usual game is suspended up to four or the like. The held ordinary game is started when it becomes possible to start.

  The variable display results that are stopped and displayed in the ordinary game include a symbol per symbol (for example, a common symbol such as “7”) and a common symbol losing symbol (for example, a common symbol such as “−”). . When the symbol per symbol is stopped (derived), the variable display result is “per symbol”. The case where the usual figure losing symbol is stopped (derived) is when the variable display result is “general figure losing”.

  In the case of “per normal”, an opening control (the second start winning opening is opened) is performed in which the movable blade piece of the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B is tilted for a predetermined period.

  When the game ball flowing down the game area enters the first start winning opening formed in the normal winning ball apparatus 6A, the first special game is started. Further, when the game ball enters the second start winning opening formed in the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B, the second special game is started. When the special figure game cannot be started (when the start condition is not satisfied), such as when another special figure game has already been executed or the game is controlled to the big hit game state described later, four etc. The special figure game is suspended with an upper limit of. The reserved special game is executed when the start condition is satisfied.

  The variable display results stopped and displayed in the special figure game include a jackpot symbol (for example, a special symbol such as “3” and “7”) and a lost symbol (for example, a special symbol such as “−”). . When the jackpot symbol is stopped (displayed), the variable display result is “big jackpot”. The lost symbol is stopped (derived) when the variable display result is “lost”.

  When the variable display result of the first special figure game or the second special figure game is “big hit” (specific display result), the big hit gaming state is controlled as an advantageous state advantageous to the player. When the variable display result is “losing”, it is not controlled to the big hit gaming state.

  In the big hit gaming state, the special winning opening formed by the special variable winning ball apparatus 7 is in an open state. The open state is one of an elapse timing of a predetermined period (for example, 29 seconds) and a timing until a predetermined number (for example, 9) of game balls enter the big winning opening and a winning ball is generated. Continue until early timing. Such an open state is called a round game (also simply called “round”). In the big hit game state, the round game is repeatedly executed until a predetermined upper limit number of times (for example, “15 times”) is reached (in the period other than the round game, the big prize opening is closed).

  In the “big hit”, the big hit types “non-probability change” and “probability change” are set. When the big hit type is “non-probable change”, the big hit symbol “3” is stopped and displayed. When the big hit type is “probability change”, the big hit symbol of “7” is stopped and displayed.

  The “big hit” when the big hit type is “probable change” may be called “probable big hit”, and the “big hit” when the big hit type is “non-probable change” may be called “non-probable big hit”. In addition, the big hit gaming state based on “probability big hit” may be referred to as “probability big hit gaming state”. Further, the big hit gaming state based on the “non-probable big hit game” may be referred to as “non-probable big hit game state”.

  After the probable big hit game state is finished, the probability that the variable display result is “big hit” (big hit probability) is controlled to be a probable state in which the probability is higher than the normal state. The probability variation state continues until the next jackpot gaming state is started. The probability variation state is a game state advantageous for the player.

  After the probable big hit game state or the non-probable big hit game state ends, the average variable display time (variable display period) is controlled to be short when the normal state is shorter than the normal state. In the short-time state, one of the end conditions is established first, that is, the predetermined number of times (in this embodiment, 100 times) the special game is executed and the next big hit game state is started. Continue until you do. The short-time state is a gaming state that is advantageous to the player.

  In the short-time state, the normally variable winning ball device 6B is opened and closed in an advantageous change mode in which the game ball is likely to enter the second start winning opening as compared to the non-short-time state that is not in the short-time state such as the normal state. And change. For example, the control to make the change time of the normal symbol in the normal game (the variable display period of the normal figure, also referred to as the normal change time) shorter than in the normal state, or variable display in each normal game What is necessary is just to change the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B between the open state and the closed state in an advantageous change mode by controlling the probability that the result is “per hit” as compared with the normal state. Such control is referred to as high opening control (also referred to as “time reduction control” or “high base control”). By controlling in such a short time state, the time required until the next variable display result becomes “big hit” is shortened, and the gaming state becomes more advantageous to the player than the normal state.

  The normal state is an advantageous state such as a big hit gaming state, a gaming state other than a state advantageous for a player such as a short-time state, a probability variation state, etc. The probability of “winning” and the probability that the variable display result in the special game is “big hit” is an initial setting state of the pachinko gaming machine 1 (for example, when a system reset is performed, a predetermined return process after power-on) Is controlled in the same manner as when (1) is not executed.

  The short time state is also referred to as “high base”, and the gaming state that is not in the short time state is also referred to as “low base” or “non-short time state”. The probability variation state is also referred to as “high probability”, and the gaming state that is not the probability variation state is also referred to as “low probability”, “non-probability variation”, or the like. The gaming state when in the probable change state and the short time state is also referred to as “highly accurate and high base”. The gaming state when it is in the probable state but not in the short-time state is also referred to as “high probability low base”. The gaming state when it is not in a probable change state but in a short time state is also referred to as “low probability high base”. The normal state is also called “low probability low base”.

  In the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R provided in the image display device 5, this corresponds to the start of the first special game or the second special game. Then, variable display of decorative symbols (this is also a kind of effect) is started. When the variable display result (also referred to as a confirmed special symbol) is stopped and displayed in the first special figure game or the second special figure game, the fixed decorative pattern (3) which becomes the display result (variable display result) of the variable symbol variable display The combination of two decorative symbols) is stopped (derived).

  In the period from the start of the variable display of the decorative design to the end thereof, the variable display mode of the decorative design may become a predetermined reach mode (reach is established). Here, the reach mode refers to a decorative design (“reach variation” that is not yet stopped when the decorative design that is stopped and displayed on the screen of the image display device 5 forms a part of the jackpot combination described later. "Design" is also a display mode in which fluctuation continues.

  In this embodiment, the reach effect is executed in response to the reach mode during the variable display. Normal reach, super reach A (development from normal reach), and super reach B (development from normal reach) are prepared as reach productions. In this embodiment, the jackpot expectation is higher in the order of super reach B> super reach A> normal reach (normal reach that does not develop into super reach).

  The big hit expectation is, for example, the ratio at which the variable display result of the special figure game is “big hit”, and is also the ratio at which the display result of the variable display of the decorative symbol is “big hit”.

  In this embodiment, a premier effect, a pattern effect, etc. are executed during the execution of variable display of decorative symbols. The premier production is a special super reach reach production performed in place of the super reach B at the time of “big hit”. In other words, when the premier effect is executed, the big hit is confirmed. In addition, the pattern production is a notice production that informs that the expectation of the big hit is high by changing the design of the decorative design from the normal (for example, plain) to the arabesque or cherry blossom pattern (from arabesque) Cherry blossoms have a higher expectation of big hits).

  When the variable display result of the special figure game is “big hit”, a fixed decorative pattern that is a predetermined big hit combination is derived and displayed on the screen of the image display device 5 as a display result of variable display of the decorative pattern. (The display result of the variable display of the decorative pattern is “big hit”). As an example, the same decorative pattern (for example, “7” for probability variation big hit, non-probable big hit, on the predetermined effective line in the “left”, “middle”, “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, 5R. "6" etc.) are all displayed at the same time.

  When the variable display result is “losing”, the fixed display pattern of the non-reach combination is stopped and displayed as the display result of the variable display of the decorative pattern, instead of the variable display mode of the decorative pattern. There is. In addition, when the variable display result is “losing”, after the variable display mode of the decorative pattern becomes the reach mode, the predetermined reach combination (“reach loss combination”) that is not a big hit combination is displayed as the display result of the variable display of the decorative pattern. ”) May be stopped and displayed.

  When the special figure game is not executed, a demonstration effect (also referred to as a demonstration display) is executed. In the demonstration effect, a demonstration screen is displayed on the image display device 5 in addition to the output of the effect sound (see FIG. 24 and the like). As will be described in detail later, the demo screen includes a normal demo screen (FIGS. 24A and 24B) and menu screens for changing the production settings (parent menu screen and child menu screen). ) And the like are included (FIG. 24C, FIGS. 25 to 27). The effect setting is not limited to an effect setting performed during variable display of decorative symbols (also referred to as variable display effect setting) and an effect at the time of effect execution (effect performed during variable display). The volume setting is also included. There are a plurality of variable display effect settings, which are classified for each category (one category may be one variable display effect setting). Note that the category is also referred to as a setting category (“background customization”, “game customization”, “BGM customization” in FIG. 24C). The variable display effect setting can be changed individually by operating the push button 31B, the stick controller 31A, etc., and is changed from the menu screen (FIGS. 24 to 27, etc.). Volume setting (also simply referred to as volume) can be changed at any time by operating the volume button 31C.

  The current volume is indicated by a volume image VL (such as FIG. 1). The volume image VL is basically displayed constantly, and is not displayed during super reach (FIGS. 24 to 28, FIG. 30A, etc.). However, even if the volume image VL is not displayed due to the execution of super reach, when the volume button 31C is operated (operation for changing the volume), the volume changed by the operation (note that the volume is maximum). Alternatively, the volume image VL is displayed for a predetermined period (here, 3 seconds) in order to notify the maximum or minimum volume when there is an operation to increase or decrease the volume at the minimum (FIG. 3). 30 (B)). When super reach is started immediately after the operation on the volume button 31C, the display period of the volume image VL is ensured for a predetermined period from the operation timing of the volume button 31C (FIG. 31A). Note that the volume image VL may be displayed for a predetermined period from the super reach start timing (FIG. 31B). If the volume button 31C is operated immediately before the end of super reach (timing when super reach ends within the predetermined period), the display of the volume image VL is continued without interruption from the operation. (FIG. 31C). Details of volume control will be described later.

(Main operations of pachinko machines)
Hereinafter, the main operation of the pachinko gaming machine 1 will be described with reference to flowcharts and the like, but in each operation (each process), a process not described below may be performed.

(Main operations of the main board 11)
On the main board 11, the CPU 103 executes a game control timer interrupt process. The game control timer interrupt processing is performed every time a timer interrupt is generated by an interrupt request signal from a CTC (counter / timer circuit) supplied every predetermined period (for example, 2 milliseconds) (predetermined interval of interrupt request signal supply). Executed every time (2 ms). In the game control timer interrupt process, the CPU 103 executes a switch process, a game random number update process, a special symbol process, a normal symbol process process, a command control process, etc., and the game control timer interrupt process is repeatedly executed for each timer interrupt. As a result, game control and the like are realized.

  In the switch processing, each switch is determined by determining whether a detection signal is input from various switches such as the gate switch 21, the first start port switch 22A, the second start port switch 22B, and the count switch 23 via the switch circuit 110. It is determined for each switch whether or not it is turned on (that is, whether or not a game ball has entered or passed). The result of this determination is used in special symbol process processing and normal symbol process processing.

  The game random number update process is a process for updating at least a part of a plurality of types of game random numbers used on the main board 11 side by software.

  The special symbol process process is a process (first special symbol display device 4A, second special symbol display device 4B, This includes control of the first hold indicator 25A, the second hold indicator 25B, and the solenoid 82 for the special prize opening door). In the special symbol process, the transmission setting of the effect control command is performed according to the progress of the game.

  The normal symbol process is based on the judgment result in the switch process, and holds and executes the ordinary game, and the normal variable winning ball device 6B (second starting prize opening) is released at the time of each ordinary figure. This is a process (including control of the normal symbol display unit 20, the general diagram hold display unit 25C, and the solenoid 81 for the normal electric accessory).

  The command control process is a process of actually transmitting the effect control command transmitted and set in the special symbol process process or the like from the main board 11 to the effect control board 12.

(Direction control command set for transmission in special symbol process)
Next, an effect control command that is set to be transmitted in the special symbol process and transmitted from the main board 11 to the effect control board 12 in the command control process will be described. FIG. 3 shows examples of main effect control commands. The following “(H)” indicates a hexadecimal number.

  The command 81XX (H) designates (notifies) a special figure game to be started and its fluctuation pattern (variable display execution time (special figure fluctuation time) and a variable design pattern for decorative symbols, see FIG. 5). This is a variation pattern designation command. In “XX” (EXT data), a numerical value is set in accordance with whether the special figure game to be started is the first special figure game or the second special figure game and the variation pattern thereof (for example, the first special figure game) “00” if the variation pattern is PA1-1 at the start of the special figure game, and “01” if the variation pattern is PA1-1 at the start of the second special figure game). The command is transmitted at the time of starting the special figure game (at the start of fluctuation). An effect control command for individually designating the start of the first special figure game or the start of the second special figure game may be separately prepared. In this case, a numerical value common to the first special figure game and the second special figure game may be set to “XX” according to the variation pattern.

  Command 8CXX (H) is a display result designation command for designating (notifying) the variable display result of the special figure game to be started. In “XX”, a numerical value corresponding to the variable display result is set (for example, “00” for “losing”, “01” for “non-probable big hit”, “02” for “probable big hit”, etc.). The command is transmitted when the special figure game is started.

  The command 8F00 (H) is a symbol determination designation command for designating (notifying) the end of the special figure game (that is, deriving and displaying the variable display result). This command is transmitted at the end of the special figure game.

  Command A000 (H) is a hit start designation command for designating (notifying) the start of a big hit gaming state (start of fanfare). The fanfare is an effect that is executed at the start of the big hit gaming state, such as an effect for notifying that the big hit gaming state has been reached. The command is transmitted at the start of the jackpot gaming state.

  Command A300 (H) is a hit end specifying command for specifying (notifying) the end of the big hit gaming state (which is also the start of ending). The ending is an effect executed at the end of the jackpot gaming state, such as an effect for notifying that the jackpot gaming state is ended. This command is transmitted at the end of the last round game.

  Command B100 (H) is a first start winning designation command for designating (notifying) that a first start winning has occurred based on the entry of a game ball into the first starting winning opening. Command B200 (H) is a second start winning designation command for designating (notifying) that a second start winning based on a game ball entering the second start winning opening has occurred. These commands may be collectively referred to as start winning designation commands. The command is transmitted when a start prize is generated.

  Command C000 (H) is a first special figure reserved memory number addition designation command for designating (notifying) that the first special figure reserved memory number increases by one. C100 (H) is a second special figure reserved memory number addition designation command for designating (notifying) that the second special figure reserved memory number increases by one. These commands may be collectively referred to as a special figure reserved memory number addition designation command. The command is transmitted when a start winning is generated (when the number of holds increases).

  Command C200 (H) is a first special figure reserved memory number subtraction designation command for designating (notifying) that the first special figure reserved memory number is decreased by one. Command C300 (H) is a second special figure reserved memory number subtraction designation command for designating (notifying) that the second special figure reserved memory number is decreased by one. These commands may be collectively referred to as special figure reserved memory number subtraction designation commands. The command is transmitted at the time of starting the special figure game (when holding is reduced).

  Command D000 (H) is a demonstration display start designation command for designating (notifying) the start of demonstration display (demonstration effect). This command is used when both the first special figure reserved memory number and the second special figure reserved memory number are “0” and there is no first start prize or second start prize (when the demonstration display is set). Sent.

(Special symbol process)
FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the special symbol process. In this special symbol process, the CPU 103 first executes a start winning determination process (step S101). After executing the start winning determination process, the CPU 103 selects and executes one of the processes in steps S110 to S117 according to the value of the special figure process flag provided in the RAM 102.

  FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing an example of the start winning determination process (step S101).

  When the start winning determination process is started, the CPU 103 first determines whether or not the first start port switch 22A is ON (refer to the determination result of the switch process. Hereinafter, the ON determination of various switches). The same applies to (Step S201). If the first start port switch 22A is on (step S201; Yes), it is determined whether or not the first special figure reservation storage number is a predetermined upper limit value (eg, “4”) (step S202). . For example, the CPU 103 uses the first reserved memory number count value which is the stored value of the first reserved memory number counter (counter for counting the first special figure reserved memory number) provided in the RAM 102 to determine the first special figure reserved memory number. Can be specified (hereinafter, the same applies to the first special figure reserved storage number). When the first special figure reserved memory number is not the upper limit value in step S202 (step S202; No), the start port buffer value that is the stored value of the start port buffer provided in the RAM 102 is set to "1" ( Step S203).

  When the first start port switch 22A is OFF in step S201 (step S201; No), or when the first special figure reservation storage number reaches the upper limit value in step S202 (step S202; Yes), the first It is determined whether or not the 2 start port switch 22B is on (step S204). At this time, if the second start port switch 22B is on (step S204; Yes), it is determined whether or not the second special figure reservation storage number is a predetermined upper limit value (for example, “4”) ( Step S205). For example, the CPU 103 uses the second reserved memory number count value that is the stored value of the second reserved memory number counter (counter that counts the first special figure reserved memory number) provided in the RAM 102 to determine the second special figure reserved memory number. Can be specified (hereinafter, the same applies to the second special figure reserved storage number). When the second special figure reservation storage number is not the upper limit value in step S205 (step S205; No), the start port buffer value is set to “2” (step S206).

  After executing one of the processes in steps S203 and S206, the pending storage number count value corresponding to the start port buffer value is updated to be incremented by 1 (step S207). For example, when the starting port buffer value is “1”, the first reserved memory number count value is incremented by 1, while when the starting port buffer value is “2”, the second reserved memory number count value is incremented by one. Thus, the first reserved memory count value increases (increments) by 1 when the game ball passes (enters) the first start winning opening and the first start condition corresponding to the first special game is satisfied. As updated. Further, the second reserved memory count value increases (increments) by 1 when the game ball passes (enters) the second start winning opening and the second start condition corresponding to the second special game is satisfied. As updated. Thus, when the first start condition is satisfied (when the first start prize is generated), the first special figure holding memory number is updated so as to increase by 1, and when the second start condition is satisfied (second start) When a winning occurs), the second special figure reservation storage number is updated so as to increase by one. At this time, the total reserved memory number count value, which is the stored value of the total reserved memory number counter provided in the RAM 102, is updated to add 1 (step S208).

  After executing the process of step S208, the CPU 103 extracts a predetermined game random number corresponding to the occurrence of the start winning (step S209). As an example, in the process of step S209, a random number value MR1 for determining a special figure display result (variable display result of a special figure game) from numerical data updated by a random counter or the like provided in the random number circuit 104 or the RAM 102. The numerical data indicating the random number value MR2 for determining the big hit type and the random number value MR3 for determining the variation pattern are extracted. Numerical data indicating each random value extracted in this way is stored as reserved data by being set at the head of the empty entry in the special figure storage unit (provided in the RAM 102) corresponding to the start port buffer value ( Step S210).

  In the process of step S210, for example, when the start port buffer value is “1”, the hold data is set in the first special figure hold storage unit, while when the start port buffer value is “2”, the hold data is held. Data is set in the second special figure holding storage unit. In this way, the hold data representing the held special figure game is stored in the special figure hold storage unit.

  As shown in FIG. 6 (A), the first special figure holding storage unit associates with the holding numbers “1” to “4” in the winning order (game ball detection order) to the first start winning opening, for example. The numerical data of the random number values MR1 to MR3 is stored as pending data until the stored number reaches a predetermined upper limit value (for example, “4”). The hold data stored in the first special figure holding storage unit in this way indicates the first special figure game whose execution is put on hold.

  As shown in FIG. 6 (B), for example, the second special figure holding storage unit associates with the holding numbers “1” to “4” in the winning order (game ball detection order) to the second start winning opening. The numerical data of the random number values MR1 to MR3 is stored as pending data until the stored number reaches a predetermined upper limit value (for example, “4”). The hold data stored in the second special figure holding storage unit in this way indicates the second special figure game whose execution is put on hold.

  In this embodiment, in this way, a special game (notably information relating to the special game) that has not yet been started (execution is suspended) is stored as a reserved memory.

  Returning to FIG. 5, following the process of step S210, settings are made to transmit an effect control command when a start winning occurs (step S211). When the start port buffer value is “1”, transmission setting of the first start winning designation command and the first special figure reserved memory number addition designation command is performed, and when the start port buffer value is “2”, the second Transmission setting of the start winning designation command and the second special figure reserved memory number addition designation command is performed.

  Further, the effect control CPU 120 determines whether the start port buffer value is “1” or “2” (step S214). At this time, if the start port buffer value is “2” (step S214; “2”), the start port buffer is cleared and its stored value (start port buffer value) is initialized to “0” ( Step S215), the start winning determination process is terminated. On the other hand, when the starting port buffer value is “1” (step S214; “1”), the starting port buffer is cleared and its stored value is initialized to “0” (step S216). The process proceeds to step S204.

  The special symbol normal process of step S110 shown in FIG. 4 is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is “0”. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the special symbol normal process.

  In the special symbol normal process, the CPU 103 first determines whether or not the second special symbol holding storage number is “0” (step S231). When the second special figure reservation storage number is other than “0” (step S231; No), the randomness stored in the head area (the storage area corresponding to the reservation number “1”) of the second special figure storage part Numerical data of numerical values MR1 to MR3 are read (step S232). Thereby, the game random number extracted corresponding to the occurrence of the second start winning is read. The numerical data read at this time may be stored in, for example, a random number buffer for fluctuation in the RAM 102 and temporarily stored.

  Subsequent to the processing of step S232, for example, by subtracting and updating the second reserved memory number count value by 1, etc., the second special figure reserved memory number is updated by 1 and the second special figure reserved memory is also updated. The stored contents in the unit are shifted (step S233). For example, the second special figure hold storage unit stores the hold data stored in the storage area lower than the hold number “1” (the storage area corresponding to the hold numbers “2” to “4”) one entry at a time. shift. In step S233, the total number of reserved memories is updated by one. Then, the variable special figure designation buffer value, which is the stored value of the special fluctuation figure designation buffer provided in the RAM 102, is updated to “2” (step S234).

  When the second special figure reserved memory number is “0” in step S231 (step S231; Yes), it is determined whether or not the first special figure reserved memory number is “0” (step S235). When the first special figure reservation storage number is other than “0” (step S235; No), the randomness stored in the head area (the storage area corresponding to the reservation number “1”) of the first special figure reservation storage unit The numerical data of the numerical values MR1 to MR3 are read (step S236). Thereby, the game random number extracted corresponding to the occurrence of the first start winning is read. The numerical data read at this time may be stored in, for example, a random number buffer for fluctuation in the RAM 102 and temporarily stored.

  Subsequent to the process of step S236, for example, by updating the first reserved memory number count value by subtracting 1 and updating the first special figure reserved memory number, the first special figure reserved memory is updated. The stored contents in the unit are shifted (step S237). For example, the first special figure reservation storage unit stores the hold data stored in the storage area lower than the hold number “1” (the storage area corresponding to the hold numbers “2” to “4”) one entry at a time. shift. Also, in the process of step S237, the total pending storage number is updated so as to be decremented by one. Then, the variable special figure designation buffer value is updated to “1” (step S238).

  In this embodiment, the process of step S235 is executed when it is determined in step S231 that the second special figure reserved memory number is “0”, and the first special figure reserved memory number is “0”. It is determined whether or not. Thereby, the second special figure game is executed with priority over the first special figure game.

  After executing one of the processes in steps S234 and S238, the special symbol display result, which is the special symbol variable display result (variable display result of the special graphic game), is determined as either “big hit” or “lost”. (Step S239). As an example, in the process of step S239, a special figure display result determination table prepared in advance in the ROM 101 is used. In the special figure display result determination table, the numerical value (determination value) compared with the random number MR1 for determining the special figure display result is the determination result of whether the special figure display result is “big hit” or “lost”. As long as it is assigned. The CPU 103 may determine the special figure display result by referring to the special figure display result determination table based on the random number MR1 for determining the special figure display result read into the random number buffer for variation. It should be noted that the CPU 103 determines the special figure display result as “big hit” at a higher determination rate when in the probability variation state than when not in the probability variation state. Whether or not the state is the probability variation state may be specified by a probability variation flag provided in the RAM 102 (a flag that is turned on in the probability variation state).

  CPU103 determines whether the special figure display result determined by the process of step S239 is "big hit" (step S240). When the special figure display result is determined to be “big hit” (step S240; Yes), the big hit flag provided in the RAM 102 is set to the on state (step S241).

  Thereafter, the jackpot type is determined as one of a plurality of types (step S242). As an example, in the process of step S242, a jackpot type determination table prepared in advance in the ROM 101 is used. In the jackpot type determination table, a numerical value (decision value) to be compared with the random value MR2 for determining the jackpot type is assigned to the determination result of whether the jackpot type is “probable change” or “non-probable change”. That's fine. The CPU 103 may determine the jackpot type by referring to the jackpot type determination table based on the random number MR2 for determining the jackpot type read into the random number buffer for variation.

Thereafter, the jackpot type is stored. The CPU 103 stores the jackpot type by storing data indicating the determination result of the jackpot type in the jackpot type buffer provided in the RAM 102 (step S243).
When the special figure display result is not “big hit” in step S240 (step S240; No), or after executing the process of step S243, the confirmed special that becomes the variable display result (special figure display result) of the special figure game The symbol is determined (step S244). As an example, when the big hit flag is off, a special symbol predetermined as a lost symbol is determined as a confirmed special symbol. On the other hand, when the big hit flag is on, one of the special symbols predetermined as a plurality of types of big hit symbols is determined as the confirmed special symbol in accordance with the big hit type stored in the big hit type buffer.

  After executing the process of step S244, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “1” (step S245), and then the special symbol normal process is terminated.

  If the number of reserved memories of the first special figure game is “0” in step S235 (step S235; Yes), after a predetermined demonstration display setting is made (step S246), the special symbol normal process is terminated. . In this demonstration display setting, for example, it is determined whether or not a demonstration display start designation command has been transmitted. If it has not been transmitted, the command is set to be transmitted. The demo display start designation command has not been transmitted / transmitted is a demo display flag provided in the RAM 102 (a flag that is turned on when the command is transmitted and that is turned off when a special game is executed). Identifies by status.

  The variation pattern setting process in step S111 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is “1”. FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the variation pattern setting process.

  In the variation pattern setting process shown in FIG. 8, the CPU 103 first determines whether or not the big hit flag is on (step S261). If the big hit flag is on (step S261; Yes), the fluctuation pattern at the big hit is determined (step S262). On the other hand, when the big hit flag is off (step S261; No), the fluctuation pattern at the time of losing is determined (step S263). The variation pattern is for designating the execution time (special diagram variation time) of the variable display of the special symbol game or the decorative symbol and the variable display pattern of the decorative symbol.

  FIG. 9 shows the variation pattern used in this embodiment. In this embodiment, there are PA1-1, PA2-1, PA3-2 to PA3-4 as fluctuation patterns at the time of loss. Further, there are B3-2 to PB3-4 as fluctuation patterns at the time of big hit. PA1-1 and PA2-1 specify non-reach. PA2-1 is a pattern for time reduction (with shortening) in which the special figure variation time (execution period of the special figure game) is shorter than normal (PA1-1). PA3-2 and PB3-2 specify execution of normal reach (no development to superreach), PA3-3 and PB3-3 specify execution of superreach A, and PA3-4 and PB3-4 , Specify the execution of super reach B.

  In the process of step S262, for example, the big hit variation pattern is determined using the big hit variation pattern determination table prepared in the ROM 101. In the big hit variation pattern determination table, for example, a numerical value (determined value) to be compared with the random value MR3 for determining the variation pattern is used to determine each variation pattern at the big hit as a determination result so as to realize the determination ratio of FIG. PB3-2 to PB3-4) may be assigned. The CPU 103 refers to the big hit variation pattern determination table on the basis of the numerical data indicating the random number MR3 for variation pattern read to the random number buffer for variation, thereby determining the variation pattern (PB3-2 to PB3- 4) may be determined.

  Further, in the process of step S263, for example, the variation pattern at the time of the loss is determined using the first loss variation pattern determination table or the second loss variation pattern determination table prepared in the ROM 101. The first loss variation pattern determination table is used when not in the time-short state, and the second loss variation pattern determination table is used when in the time-short state. Whether the time is short or not is identified by, for example, the state of a time short flag (a flag that is turned on when the time is short) provided in the RAM 102. In the first loss variation pattern determination table, the numerical value (determination value) compared with the random value MR3 for determining the variation pattern is a variation at the time of loss as a determination result so as to realize the determination ratio of FIG. What is necessary is just to be assigned to the pattern (PA1-1, PA3-2 to PA3-4). In the second loss variation pattern determination table, a numerical value (determination value) compared with the random value MR3 for determining the variation pattern is a variation at the time of loss as a determination result so as to realize the determination ratio of FIG. It is only necessary to be assigned to the patterns (PA2-1, PA3-2 to PA3-4). The CPU 103 refers to the first or second loss variation pattern determination table based on the numerical data indicating the variation pattern determination random value MR3 read into the variation random number buffer, thereby causing the variation pattern (PA1- 1, any one of PA3-2 to PA3-4, or any one of PA2-1, PA3-2 to PA3-4) may be determined.

  Referring to FIGS. 10 and 11, the determination ratio of the variation pattern is higher in the order of PA1-1 or PA2-1> PA3-2> PA3-3> PA3-4 at the time of loss. The big hit is higher in the order of PB3-4> PB3-3> PB3-2. For this reason, the big hit expectation degree is high in the order of super reach B> super reach A> normal reach. In addition, when the time is short, PA2-1 is selected with a short special figure fluctuation time. Therefore, when the time is short, the average special figure fluctuation time is shorter than that in the non-time short state.

  After executing one of the processes of steps S262 and S263, a special figure variation time is set according to the variation pattern determined this time (step S264). For example, a timer initial value corresponding to the special figure variation time is set in a predetermined timer of the RAM 102 (hereinafter, the elapsed time from the start of the special figure game execution is measured by updating the timer value. .)

  Subsequent to the process of step S264, the special symbol change is started so as to start one of the first special figure game and the second special figure game for which the start condition is satisfied (step S265). ). As an example, if the variable special symbol designation buffer value is “1” (during execution of the first special graphic game), a drive signal for executing the first special graphic game is transmitted to the first special symbol display device 4A. On the other hand, if the variable special symbol designation buffer value is “2” (when the second special graphic game is executed), a drive signal for executing the second special graphic game is transmitted to the second special symbol display device 4B.

  After executing the process of step S265, transmission setting of a change start time command (a command corresponding to the determination result) is performed as a command for starting the execution of the special figure game (step S266). For example, when the fluctuation special figure designation buffer value is “1”, the CPU 103 performs transmission setting of a fluctuation pattern designation command, a display result designation command, and a first special figure reserved memory number subtraction designation command. On the other hand, when the fluctuation special figure designation buffer value is “2”, the CPU 103 performs transmission setting of a fluctuation pattern designation command, a display result designation command, and a second special figure reserved memory number subtraction designation command.

  After executing the process of step S266, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “2” (step S267), and the variation pattern setting process is terminated.

  The special symbol variation process of step S112 is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is “2”. For example, the CPU 103 determines whether the elapsed time since the start of the special figure game (measured by the predetermined timer or the like) has reached the special figure variation time set above (the predetermined timer value is 0). If it is not reached, a drive signal for executing the first special symbol game or the second special symbol game is supplied to the first special symbol display device 4A or the second special symbol display device 4B. The process is terminated after the process of changing the special symbol is performed. On the other hand, when the special symbol variation time is reached, the timing for deriving the variable display result is reached, so a predetermined drive signal is supplied to the first special symbol display device 4A or the second special symbol display device 4B and determined as described above. This variable display result (specified by big hit flag or big hit type stored in big hit type buffer) ("-" for "Lost", "7" for "probable big hit", "No" If it is “probable big hit”, “3” or the like is stopped and displayed (derived display), the symbol confirmation designation command transmission is set, and the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “3”. By executing step S112 repeatedly every time a timer interrupt occurs, the execution of the special game is realized.

  The special symbol stop process in step S113 is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is “3”. For example, when the current variable display result is “big hit”, the CPU 103 resets the time reduction flag and the probability variation flag to OFF. After that, transmission setting of the hit start designation command is performed, the special figure process flag is updated to “4”, and this processing is terminated. In the case of “shortage” in the time-short state, it is determined whether a predetermined number of variable displays that can be executed in the time-short state has been executed (for example, it can be counted by a counter or the like), and a predetermined number of variable displays are executed. If there is, the time reduction flag is reset to OFF, the value of the special figure process flag is set to “0”, and the process is terminated. Even in the case of “losing” and not being in a short time state, when the predetermined number of variable displays has not been executed, the process is terminated by setting the value of the special figure process flag to “0”.

  The big hit release pre-processing in step S114 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is “4”. For example, an elapsed time (which may be measured by a timer or the like provided in the RAM 102, the same as for other elapsed times) after the transmission setting of the hit start designation command is set in advance as a fanfare waiting time ( It is determined whether or not the waiting time from the start of fanfare to the end in the big hit gaming state has been reached. When the fanfare waiting time is reached, the special prize process flag is updated to “5” by performing a process (opening of a solenoid drive signal) for opening the big prize opening in order to start a round game. By repeating step S114 every time a timer interrupt occurs, waiting until the start timing of the round game (waiting until the end of the fanfare), opening of the big prize opening, and the like are realized.

  The big hit release processing in step S115 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is “5”. For example, the CPU 103 determines whether it is time to end the round game. The number of times the count switch 23 is turned on (the number of game balls that have entered the big winning opening) becomes a predetermined value (for example, “9”) (the counter provided in the RAM 102 may be counted), or round games are played. When the elapsed time from the start (after opening the grand prize opening) reaches the upper limit period (for example, 29 seconds) of the round game, and when it is time to end the round game, A process of returning to the closed state and ending the round game (a process of turning off the solenoid 82) is performed. At this time, when the finished round game is the last round game (for example, the 15th round) (it may be counted by a counter or the like provided in the RAM 102), a setting to send a hit end designation command is performed, The value of the special figure process flag is updated to “7”, and this process ends. When it is not the last round game, the special figure process flag is updated to “6”, and this process is terminated. If the current time is not the timing for ending the round game, the processing is terminated as it is (the processing for maintaining the big prize opening in an open state may be performed). By repeating step S115 every time a timer interrupt occurs, the open state of the big prize opening is maintained until the timing for returning the big prize opening to the closed state, and finally the big prize opening is closed.

  The big hit release post-processing in step S116 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is “6”. For example, the CPU 103 determines whether or not the elapsed time from the end of the round game (after closing the big prize opening) has reached a predetermined closing time (round game interval period). In this case, the closed state is maintained, and the present process ends. When the predetermined closing time is reached, in order to start the round game, a process for opening the special winning opening is executed, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “5”, and this process is terminated.

  Each round game is realized by repeatedly executing S115 and S116 every time a timer interrupt occurs after the big winning opening is opened in step S114.

  The jackpot end process in step S117 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is “7”. For example, the elapsed time from the end of the last round game (after closing the big prize opening) to a predetermined ending waiting time (waiting time from the start to the end of the ending in the big hit gaming state) If it has not been reached, this process is terminated. When the ending waiting time is reached, the ending is completed. Therefore, when the current big hit type (the big hit type stored in the big hit type buffer) is “probable change”, the time reduction flag and the probable change flag are turned on. Occasionally, the time reduction flag is turned on and the probability variation flag is left off. Then, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “0”, and this process ends.

(Main operations in the production control board 12)
In the effect control board 12, when the effect control CPU 120 receives an effect control command from a predetermined input port of the I / O 125, the effect control command is received in an effect control command reception buffer provided in the RAM 122, for example, as a received command. Store. The effect control CPU 120 executes command analysis processing, effect control process processing, effect random number update processing, and the like. These processes are executed every time a timer interrupt is generated by a CTC (counter / timer circuit) or the like (for example, every 10 ms). The execution of the effect is realized by executing the command analysis process, the effect control process, etc. for each timer interruption.

  The command analysis process is a process for reading and analyzing the received command stored in the effect control command reception buffer, and performing setting and control corresponding to the analysis result, for example. The effect control process is a process of executing an effect according to the effect control command. In the effect random number update process, the effect random number value used for effect control is updated by software.

(Command analysis processing)
In the command analysis process, the reception command (the effect control command received by the effect control board 12) stored in the effect control command reception buffer is analyzed (for example, the MODE data is confirmed), and which effect control the received command is. Whether the command is specified or not is processed according to the specified effect control command.

  FIG. 12 shows the relationship between the effect control command specified by the analysis by the command analysis process and the processing content performed in the command analysis process corresponding to the effect control command. Each flag and each storage area in the drawing are provided in the RAM 122. Further, “setting” for a flag means turning the flag on. Note that the state of each flag and the command stored in each storage area may be reset or deleted at an appropriate timing. When a special figure reserved memory number addition designation command or a special figure reserved memory number subtraction designation command is received, the number of the first pending display image or the second pending display image in the display area 5HL or 5HR may be increased or decreased accordingly. .

(Production control process)
In the effect control process (see FIG. 13, details will be described later), the effect control CPU 120 performs start settings for starting the execution of various effects (effect start settings), and effects for executing the start-set effects. Perform operation control. Note that each flag, each timer, each counter, and the like described below are provided in the RAM 122. In this embodiment, various production settings can be changed, and the production control CPU 120 performs production start settings and production operation control in accordance with the production settings. The contents of the effect setting may be stored and referred to as appropriate in the RAM 102 or the like.

  The production start setting includes, for example, setting the production control pattern as a usage pattern in the RAM 122 and setting an initial value corresponding to the production control pattern set in the process timer. The timer value of the process timer is subtracted at a predetermined timing (at the start of the presentation control process processing, at the time of presentation operation control, etc.) every time a timer interrupt occurs after the initial value is set. The effect control pattern is a collection of data for executing various effects (including variable display of decorative symbols) and is associated with a process timer determination value to be compared with a timer value of a process timer and the determination value. It is composed of process data including the produced production control execution data (display control data, audio control data, lighting control data, vibration control data, etc.) and an end code. Data constituting the effect control pattern is stored in the ROM 121.

  The effect operation control is a control for executing an effect based on the effect control pattern set in the effect start setting. For example, among the presentation control execution data corresponding to the process timer determination value that matches the current timer value of the process timer, a display control command according to the display control data is transmitted to the display control unit 123 to the image display device 5. An image is displayed, a sound effect signal according to the sound control data is transmitted to the sound control board 13 and sound is output from the speakers 8L and 8R, or an illumination signal according to the lighting control data is sent to the lamp control board 14. Control to execute various effects by transmitting / turning on / off the game effect lamp 9 or transmitting a control signal according to vibration control data to the controller sensor unit 35A to vibrate the vibration unit in the stick controller 31A. I do. Execution of various effects is realized by repeatedly performing the effect operation control every time the timer interruption occurs.

(Production control process)
FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the effect control process. In the effect control process, after performing the volume display process (step S162), any one of steps S170 to S175 is performed according to the value of the effect process flag. In each process, the following process is executed.

  First, the volume display process (FIG. 14) in step S162 will be described. As described above, the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to this embodiment is capable of volume adjustment (an example of changing the production setting) based on the operation of the volume button 31C by the player. That is, the pachinko gaming machine 1 is configured so that the volume of the sound from the speakers 8L and 8R can be changed according to the operation of the volume button 31C by the player. The volume display process is for realizing a volume change based on a player's operation on the volume button 31C and display of a volume image VL indicating the volume (FIGS. 28 to 31) together with a temporary display process (step S344) described later. It is processing. Volume change processing and display of the volume image VL are realized by repeatedly executing the volume display process and the temporary display process for each timer interruption.

  The effect control CPU 120 first determines whether or not super reach is being executed (step S601). The super reach execution period may be defined by, for example, an effect control pattern (effect control pattern set as a use pattern) for executing variable display of decorative symbols. Alternatively, a flag that is turned on during execution of super reach may be prepared, and the determination in step S601 may be performed based on the state of the flag.

  When the super reach is not being executed in step S601 (step S601; No), it is determined whether or not the super reach operation flag is set to the on state (step S602). The super reach operation flag is a flag that is turned on when the player operates the volume button 31C during super reach.

  If the super-reach operation flag is not set to ON in step S602 (step S602; No), the image display device 5 is informed of the current sound volume (volume information held in the RAM 102, etc.). Display control for displaying the sound volume image VL indicating (there should be specified) is executed (step S603). When the volume image VL is already displayed at the time of executing step S603, display control for continuing the display of the volume image VL may be performed.

  Display control related to the display of the volume image VL (including control for continuation of display of the volume image VL and termination of display (erasing of the volume image VL)), for example, the effect control CPU 120 displays a predetermined display control command. What is necessary is just to perform by transmitting to the control part 123 (hereinafter the same). The display control unit 123 controls display / non-display of the volume image VL according to the content of the display control command. The layer for displaying the volume image VL can be easily controlled to display the volume image VL by making the layer different from the layer for displaying other effects such as variable display of decorative symbols.

  When the operation flag at the time of super reach is set (ON state) at step S602 (step S602; Yes), the display control for continuing the display of the volume image VL is executed (step S604), and the operation at the time of super reach is performed. The flag is reset to an off state (step S605). In steps S604 and S605, as shown in FIG. 31C, the volume image VL is displayed when there is an operation (an operation for changing the volume) on the volume button 31C immediately before the end of the super reach effect. It is a process for continuing. Thus, the volume image VL displayed by performing an operation on the volume button 31C immediately before the end of the super reach can be continuously displayed after the end of the super reach effect. It can be prevented from being erased once.

  After executing the process of step S603 or after executing the process of step S605, it is determined whether or not there is an operation on the volume button 31C (step S606). Whether or not the volume button 31C is operated is determined based on whether or not an operation detection signal (a signal indicating a player's operation action on the volume button 31C) is supplied from the volume button sensor 35C.

  When the operation detection signal is supplied and the volume button 31C is operated (step S606; Yes), the volume is set according to the operation detection signal according to the operation content indicated by the operation detection signal. At the same time, display control for displaying the volume image VL indicating the volume after the operation is performed, and measurement of the elapsed time from this point is started in order to measure a predetermined period which is the display period of the volume image VL (step S607).

  In setting the volume, if the operation detection signal indicates that the upper button of the volume buttons 31C has been pressed, the currently set volume is increased by one level. When the operation detection signal indicates that the upper button of the volume buttons 31C has been pressed, the currently set volume is increased by one level. For example, when the sound volume is defined by the effect control pattern, the content of the currently used effect control pattern (part for specifying the sound volume) is rewritten, and the sound volume defined by the pattern is increased or decreased by one step. When the sound volume is controlled by the sound control board 13, a predetermined signal is supplied to the sound control board 13 to give a command to increase or decrease the sound volume by one step. In addition, information indicating the current volume held in the RAM 122 or the like (for example, a numerical value that can take “0” to “5”) is also updated to information indicating the volume increased or decreased by one step. Note that when the up button is pressed when the volume is maximum, or when the down button is pressed when the volume is minimum, the volume remains at that level.

  In the display control of the volume image VL, the volume image VL is updated to indicate the volume after the volume is set. As shown in FIG. 1 and the like, the volume image VL is an image that has five frames and lights up with the number of frames corresponding to the volume left justified. For example, when the information indicating the volume held by the RAM 122 is updated from “3” to “4”, the volume image VL is updated from the three lit to the four lit.

  The elapsed time measurement is started, for example, by setting an initial value corresponding to a predetermined period in a predetermined timer (the timer value of the predetermined timer is the elapsed time = predetermined period at the start of the production control process) It may be updated every time the production control process is executed, such as at the time of determination.)

  After executing the process of step S607, the non-super-reach operation flag is turned on (step S608). The non-super reach operation flag is a flag that is turned on when the player operates the volume button 31C when the super reach is not being executed.

  On the other hand, when there is no operation on the volume button 31C (step S606; No), it is determined whether the operation flag other than the super reach is on (step S609).

  After step S608 or when the non-super-reach operation flag is on (step S609; Yes), whether the elapsed time when the measurement starts has reached a predetermined period (for example, 3 seconds) (for example, the predetermined The timer value is updated by subtracting 1 and it is determined whether the updated timer value has become 0) (step S610). When the predetermined period has been reached because the updated timer value is 0 (step S610; Yes), the non-super-reach operation flag is reset to the off state (step S611).

  Returning to step S601, when the super reach is being performed (step S601; Yes), it is determined whether the non-super reach operation flag is on (step S612). When the non-super-reach operation flag is off (step S612; No), it is determined whether or not the super-reach operation flag is on (step S613). When the super reach operation flag is off (step S613; No), display control for deleting the volume image VL (display end) is executed (step S614).

  Steps S613 and S614 are processing for preventing the volume image VL from being displayed during super-reach as a general rule, as shown in FIG. Specifically, in the second state in which super reach is performed, that is, in the game state in which the super reach is being performed, the sound volume is displayed on the image display device 5 as shown in FIG. 28 unless requested by the player (operation on the sound volume button 31C). The image VL is not displayed (the volume image VL is deleted). This makes it possible to prevent the volume image VL from being displayed during execution of super reach, which is an example of a game effect that is particularly desired to be shown to the player, and to suppress a decrease in the effect of the super reach effect.

  When the non-super-reach operation flag is off in step S609 (step S609; No), in step S610, if the elapsed time is not a predetermined period (step S610; No), after executing the process of step S611, When the non-super-reach operation flag is set to the on state in step S612 (step S612; Yes), or when the super-reach operation flag is set to the on state in step S613 (step S613; Yes). After executing the process of step S614, the volume display process is terminated.

  Note that according to the volume display process (step S162), the volume image VL can be displayed even in the demonstration screen display.

  The variable display start waiting process of step S170 in the effect control process of FIG. 13 is executed when the effect process flag is “0”. FIG. 15 is a flowchart of an example of variable display start waiting processing.

  In the variable display start waiting process, the effect control CPU 120 determines whether a change start command (a change pattern specifying command, a display result specifying command, a first or second special figure reserved memory number subtraction specifying command) is received. (Step S401). The command is received, for example, if the command reception flag (FIG. 12) corresponding to the effect control command whose reception is to be determined is turned on, or the command storage area (FIG. 12) corresponding to the effect control command whose reception is determined. The determination may be made based on whether the command is stored or the like (hereinafter, the same applies to the determination regarding the reception of the command).

  If no change start command is received (step S401; No), it is determined whether the demo execution flag (a flag that is turned on during the demonstration display) is on (step S402). (Step S402; No), it is determined whether a demonstration display start designation command is received (Step S403).

  When the demonstration display start designation command has not been received (step S403; No), this processing ends, and when it has been received (step S403; Yes), the demonstration effect (demonstration display) start setting (executes demonstration display) The demonstration control pattern is set as a use pattern) (step S404), and the demonstration execution flag is set to ON (step S405). As will be described later, since a normal demonstration screen with operation guidance (guide images SH1, SH2) is displayed after a certain period of time has elapsed since the start of the demonstration (FIG. 24), in step S404, for example, such screen display An effect control pattern (for example, an effect control pattern for designating that a layer for displaying operation guidance after a certain period of time is displayed on a normal demonstration screen without operation guidance) is set.

  When the demonstration execution flag is on (step S402; Yes), a demonstration execution process for executing display of a demonstration screen or the like is performed (step S406), and the variable display start waiting process is terminated. The contents of this process will be described later. If there is a change start command received (step 401; Yes), the decorative symbol variable display starts, so the demonstration running flag is turned off (if it is already off, it remains off. ), The effect process flag is updated to “1” (steps S407A and S407B), and the variable display start waiting process is terminated.

  Next, the demonstration execution process will be described. The demo execution process is a process for executing the demo display, and the screen changes according to the player's operation or the production settings are changed. A description will be given first, followed by a flow of the demonstration execution process.

  When the demonstration display is started, a normal demonstration screen without operation guidance is displayed (FIG. 24A), and the operation guidance is displayed after a certain period of time (FIG. 24B). The operation guidance is an image including a guidance image SH1 for guiding an operation method for shifting to the menu screen and a guidance image SH2 for guiding a volume adjustment method (FIG. 24B). On the normal demonstration screen, an effect image (not shown) is displayed as appropriate. When the push button 31B is operated after displaying the operation guidance, the display screen transitions from the normal demonstration screen to the parent menu screen (the menu screen is called up).

  While the parent menu screen (FIG. 24C) is displayed, the player operates the stick controller 31A to thereby display each item (“background customization”, “game customization”, “BGM”) displayed on the parent menu screen. "Customize", "Return", "RESET") can be selected (the selected item is highlighted by lighting, etc.). When the push button 31B is pressed, the selected item (highlighted item) is confirmed. Hereinafter, such selection and confirmation is also referred to as “selection confirmation”. As shown in FIG. 24, when one of the setting categories “background customization”, “game customization”, and “BGM customization” is selected and confirmed, a transition is made to a child menu screen of the setting category that has been selected and confirmed. When “Return” is selected and confirmed, the display returns to the normal demonstration screen. When “RESET” is selected and confirmed, all of the variable display effect settings for “background customization”, “game customization”, and “BGM customization” are initialized (note that the volume is not initialized).

  As shown in FIG. 25, when “background customization” is selected and confirmed in the parent menu, the demo screen changes to a child menu screen for background customization. “Background customization” is a setting category related to the background of the effect image. Similar to the parent menu screen, when the child menu screen is displayed, each item (“ground”, “underwater”, “sky”, “return”, “return”, “ RESET ") and the item selected by the push button 31B can be confirmed. When any of “Ground”, “Underwater”, and “Sky” is selected and confirmed, the background (either ground, underwater or sky) indicated by the selected and confirmed item is the effect image (effect image during variable display) Set as background. When “Return” is selected and confirmed, the screen returns to the parent menu screen. When “RESET” is selected and confirmed, “background customization” is initialized (for example, a ground background is set).

  As shown in FIG. 26, when “game customization” is selected and confirmed in the parent menu, the demo screen changes to a child menu screen for game customization. “Game Customization” includes settings to execute the vibration production by the vibration unit during the reach production (“vibration”), a setting to make the premier production execution frequency higher than usual (“Premier Up”), and pattern production Each variable display effect setting of the setting to increase the jackpot expectation degree ("pattern intense heat mode") is included, and each item ("vibration", "premier up", "pattern") is displayed on the child menu screen. "Intense heat mode") is displayed with "ON" and "OFF". When the child menu screen is displayed, the stick controller 31A selects each item ("ON", "OFF", "Return", "RESET") displayed on the child menu screen, and push button 31B. The item selected with can be confirmed. In FIG. 26, the hatched items are currently set items (here, “ON” corresponding to “vibration” and “premier up”), and the items with dots are currently selected. (In this case, “ON” corresponding to the “pattern intense heat mode”) (the same applies to FIG. 27). When “ON” corresponding to “vibration” is selected and confirmed, the “vibration” is turned on (validated), and an effect of vibration is executed at a predetermined timing. When “OFF” corresponding to “vibration” is selected and confirmed, the “vibration” is turned off (invalidated), and the effect of vibration is not executed at the predetermined timing. When “ON” corresponding to “Premier Up” is selected and confirmed, “Premier Up” is turned on (validated), and the execution frequency of the premier effect is improved compared to when “OFF” is selected and confirmed. When “ON” corresponding to the “pattern intense heat mode” is selected and confirmed, the “pattern intense heat mode” is turned on (validated), and the pattern production jackpot expectation is selected and confirmed. Than go up overall. When “Return” is selected and confirmed, the screen returns to the parent menu screen. When “RESET” is selected and confirmed, only the variable display effect setting of “game characteristics customization” is initialized (for example, all are turned off).

  As shown in FIG. 27, when “BGM customization” is selected and confirmed in the parent menu, the demo screen changes to a child menu screen for BGM customization. “BGM customization” includes a variable display effect setting for setting to have a song (“Song”) and a setting for outputting a specific sound effect (“Sound effect”). In the child menu screen, Items indicating these (“Song”, “Sound effect”) are displayed together with “ON” and “OFF”. When the child menu screen is displayed, the stick controller 31A selects each item ("ON", "OFF", "Return", "RESET") displayed on the child menu screen, and push button 31B. The item selected with can be confirmed. When “ON” corresponding to “Song” is selected and confirmed, the “Song” is turned on (validated), and the BGM of the performance performed during variable display is accompanied by a song, while “OFF” is When the selection is confirmed, the “song” is turned off (invalidated), and the BGM has no song. When “ON” corresponding to “sound effect” is selected and confirmed, the “sound effect” is turned on (validated), and a specific sound effect is output in an effect executed during variable display. On the other hand, when “OFF” is selected and confirmed, the “sound effect” is turned off (invalidated), and the specific sound effect is not output. When “Return” is selected and confirmed, the screen returns to the parent menu screen. When “RESET” is selected and confirmed, only the variable display effect setting “BGM customization” is initialized (for example, all are turned off).

  Based on the above, the demonstration execution process will be described. FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the demonstration execution process.

  The effect control CPU 120 determines whether a fixed time (for example, 5 seconds) has elapsed since the start of the demonstration display (for example, the demonstration start setting in step S404) (step S421). For example, the elapse of the fixed time is determined by determining whether the elapsed time measured by the timer operating from the start of the demonstration has reached the predetermined period.

  When the predetermined time has not elapsed (step S421; No), the presentation operation control for executing the demonstration display is performed (step S433). The production operation control is executed according to the production control pattern as described above. The demonstration display may be repeatedly executed so that the variable display is not started. Here, since the predetermined time has not elapsed since the start of the demonstration display, a normal demonstration screen (FIG. 24B) without operation guidance is displayed.

  If the predetermined time has passed (step S421; Yes), it is determined whether the menu screen (either the parent menu or the child menu) is currently being displayed (step S422). For example, this determination may be performed with reference to a flag that is turned on while the menu screen is displayed.

  When the currently displayed demonstration screen is not the menu screen (step S422; No), it is determined whether or not the push button 31B has been operated (step S429). Whether or not the push button 31B is operated is determined based on whether or not an operation detection signal (a signal indicating a player's operation action on the push button 31B) is supplied from the push sensor 35B (also regarding the operation to the stick controller 31A). The same).

  When no operation detection signal is input and there is no operation of the push button 31B (step S429; No), effect operation control for executing a demonstration display is performed (step S430). The production operation control is executed according to the production control pattern as described above. Here, since a certain period of time has elapsed, effect operation control is executed to execute a demonstration display on the normal demonstration screen (FIG. 24B) with operation guidance.

  If no operation detection signal is input and there is an operation on the push button 31B (step S429; Yes), the push button 31B is operated to call the menu screen during the operation guidance display. Display is started (step S432). For example, the presentation operation control is performed after rewriting the currently set presentation control pattern so as to display the parent menu screen. Note that the display of the layer displaying the parent menu screen may be started on the normal demonstration screen (front side). In this case, an effect control pattern for displaying the menu screen on this layer is set, and the display control of the menu screen is performed on this layer.

  When the menu screen is being displayed (step S422; Yes), it is determined whether the push button 31B or the stick controller 31A is operated (step S423).

  If there is an operation (step S423; Yes), it is determined based on the operation detection signal whether the operation is an operation for changing the variable display effect setting (step S424). Specifically, the child menu screen is currently displayed, and the items (highlighted items) selected by the stick controller 31A are “ground” (FIG. 25), “underwater” (FIG. 25), When the push button 31B is operated in a state of “empty” (FIG. 25), “ON” (FIGS. 26 and 27), or “OFF” (FIGS. 26 and 27), a variable display effect is displayed. It is determined that the operation is to change the setting (that is, one of the above is selected and confirmed). When it is determined that the operation is to be changed (step S424; Yes), the production setting is changed according to the selected and confirmed item (for example, information indicating the content of the production setting stored in the RAM 122 is changed). ), A setting for notifying that the change has been made is performed (step S425).

  In the setting for notifying that the change has been made, for example, the currently selected item is blinked, and then an image indicating that the selected item has been confirmed is displayed by changing the color of the item. The effect control pattern is rewritten to notify that it has been changed. It should be noted that during the period in which the selected and confirmed items are blinking, it may be determined as No in step S423 (the operation may be invalidated).

  If the operation is not an operation for changing the variable display effect setting (step S424; No), it is determined whether the operation is an operation for performing initialization (step S426). Specifically, initialization is performed when the push button 31B is operated while the item selected by the stick controller 31A (highlighted item) is “RESET” (FIGS. 24 to 27). It is determined that the operation is to be changed. When it is determined that the operation is to be initialized (step S426; Yes), the initialization is performed according to the current menu screen (for example, the effect setting stored in the RAM 122 is initialized according to the current menu screen). Etc.), a setting for notifying that initialization has been performed is performed (step S426). During the period for notifying that the initialization has been performed, it may be determined as No in step S423 (the operation may be invalidated).

  In the initialization, as described above, when the current screen is a parent menu screen, all the variable display effect settings included in each setting category are initialized, and when the current screen is a child menu screen for background customization, the background Initialize customization, initialize the variable display effect setting included in the setting category when it is a child menu screen for gameability customization, and variable display effect setting included in the setting category when it is a child menu screen for BGM customization (See also FIG. 17. Note that the volume is not initialized in any case).

  In the setting for notifying that the change has been made, for example, the currently selected item (“RESET”) is blinked, and then an initialization notification image such as “initialized” is displayed for a predetermined period. The effect control pattern is rewritten to notify that it has been changed. It should be noted that during the period in which the selected and confirmed items are blinked and the initialization notification image is being displayed, it may be determined as No in step S423 (the operation may be invalidated).

  If the operation is not an initialization operation (step S426; No), display setting is performed according to the operation (step S428).

  When the stick controller 31A is operated (when the operation detection signal indicates the operation of the stick controller 31A), the current effect control is performed in a pattern in which the highlighting is moved in a direction corresponding to the tilt direction indicated by the operation detection signal. Rewrite the pattern. For example, when the stick controller 31A is tilted forward in the state shown in FIG. 25A, the current effect control is performed on the screen pattern in which the highlight is moved from “background customization” to “game customization”. Rewrite the pattern. If the stick controller 31A is tilted to the right in the state of FIG. 26B, the current effect control pattern is rewritten to the screen pattern in which “ON” is moved to “OFF”.

  When the push button 31B is operated (when the operation detection signal indicates the operation of the push button 31B), “return” is selected and confirmed, so the screen to which the demo screen is returned (the parent menu screen) In the case of “return”, the current production control pattern is rewritten to a pattern for displaying a normal demo screen and a parent menu screen in the case of “return” on the child menu screen.

  When there is no operation (step S423; No), after step S425, S427, and S428, presentation operation control according to the present presentation control pattern (including the rewritten presentation control pattern) is performed (step S435). Thereby, the screen change described above is realized. After steps S430, S432, S433, and S435, the demonstration execution process ends.

  The variable display start setting process of step S171 in the effect control process of FIG. 13 is executed when the effect process flag is “1”. FIG. 18 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the process executed in step S171.

  In the variable display start setting process, the effect control CPU 120 first determines a final stop symbol or the like to be a finalized symbol as a variable symbol display result (step S321). As the process of step S321, the CPU 120 for effect control finally stops based on the variable display result (stored in the display result specifying command storage area) indicated by the display result specifying command transmitted from the main board 11. Determine the design. The final stop symbol may be determined in advance according to the variable display result designated by the display result designation command. Note that the confirmed decorative design is predetermined based on a table (stored in the ROM 121) and a random number value (updated by the random number circuit 124 or an effect random counter or the like. The same applies to the random value hereinafter). You may determine at random from the candidate of a definite decorative design (candidate according to a variable display result).

  Following the determination of the final stop symbol and the like in the process of step S321, an effect execution determination process (FIG. 19) for determining whether to execute a pattern effect or a premier effect is executed (step S322). In the effect execution determination process, first, the effect control CPU 120 determines that the change pattern specified by the current change pattern specifying command (the command stored in the change pattern specifying command storage area) is a big hit and the variable display result is a super-reach B. It is determined whether or not the fluctuation pattern PB3-4 for executing is designated (step S322A).

  If the change pattern PB3-4 is to be designated (step S322A; Yes), the presence / absence of execution of the premier effect is determined (step S322B). In step S322B, the first premier effect determination table or the second premier effect determination table prepared in advance in the ROM 121 is used. The first premier effect determination table is referred to when “premier up” is off, and the second premier effect determination table is referred to when “premier up” is on. The ON / OFF of “Premier Up” may be specified by the information of the variable display effect setting stored in the RAM 122 (the same applies to other variable display settings). In the first or second premier effect determination table, a numerical value (determined value) to be compared with a random value is assigned to a determination result of “execution performed” for executing the premier effect or “not executing” for executing the premier effect. What is necessary is just to be allocated so that the determination ratio of FIG. 20 may be implement | achieved. The effect control CPU 120 may determine whether or not to execute the premier effect by referring to the first or second premier effect determination table based on the random value. As can be seen from steps S322A to S322B, the premier effect is executed only at the time of the big hit, and when the premier effect is executed, the big hit is confirmed. Further, as can be seen from the determination ratio of FIG. 20, when “Premier Up” is on, the execution ratio (execution frequency) of the premier effect is higher than when it is off.

  After step S322B or when designating the variation pattern PB3-4 (step S322A; Yes), whether or not the pattern effect is executed is determined (step S322C). In step S322C, a first pattern effect determination table or a second pattern effect determination table prepared in advance in the ROM 121 is used. The first pattern effect determination table is referred to when the “pattern intense heat mode” is off, and the second pattern effect determination table is referred to when the “pattern intense heat mode” is on. In the first or second pattern effect determination table, the numerical value (determined value) to be compared with the random value is “no execution” that does not execute the pattern effect, “pattern effect (arabesque)” that executes the pattern effect of the arabesque pattern, It suffices if it is assigned to the determination result of “pattern production (sakura)” that executes the pattern production of the cherry blossom pattern (it should be assigned so as to realize the decision ratio of FIG. 21). The effect control CPU 120 may determine the presence / absence of the pattern effect and the type of execution of the pattern effect by referring to the first or second pattern effect determination table based on the random number value. As can be seen from the determination ratio in FIG. 21, the big hit expectation degree is higher in the order of execution of the cherry blossom pattern production> execution of the arabesque pattern production> no execution of the pattern production. Also, when the “pattern intense heat mode” is on, the degree of expectation for jackpot of each pattern production is higher than when it is off.

  Returning to FIG. 18, after step S322, the determination result of step S322, the production reflecting the variation pattern designated by the display result designation command and the variation pattern designation command, and the variable display result (decorative display decorations and reach of variable display). Start setting (including production) (setting of production control pattern, setting of timer initial value corresponding to special figure variation time specified by variation pattern, etc.) is performed (step S326). Here, the first effect operation control may also be performed. In addition, here, an effect for performing an effect reflecting the above-described variable display effect settings (as described above, background, presence / absence of song, presence / absence of sound effect, presence / absence of vibration effect) (information on the setting) Set the control pattern as the usage pattern. Further, when the volume is designated by the production control pattern, the production control pattern for designating the production sound at the current volume (which may be specified by the volume information held in the RAM 122) is set. For each effect (including variable display of decorative symbols), it is preferable to set an effect control pattern and execute the effect operation control according to each effect control pattern during variable display of decorative symbols. (In this case, the effect image may be formed by overlapping each layer for executing each effect).

  After that, when the special figure game executed this time is the first special figure game, the first hold display image is reduced by one, and when the special figure game is the second special figure game, the second hold display image is reduced by one (which special figure game is executed). Whether or not the figure game is executed may be specified by a change pattern designation command (step S327), and the effect process flag is updated to “2” (step S328). Control to reduce the first or second hold display image by one is performed by giving a predetermined display control command to the display control unit 123.

  The variable display effect process in step S172 in the effect control process of FIG. 13 is executed when the effect process flag is “2”. FIG. 22 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a variable display effect process.

  In the variable display effect process, first, for example, based on the timer value of the process timer (timer value set in step S326) or the like, has the variable display time (special drawing fluctuation time) corresponding to the current fluctuation pattern elapsed? It is determined whether or not (step S341). As an example, in the process of step S341, the timer value of the process timer is updated (for example, 1 may be subtracted) (may be updated at the beginning of the effect control process), and corresponds to the updated effect control process timer value. When the end code is read out from the effect control pattern, it may be determined that the variable display time has elapsed.

  If the variable display time has not elapsed in step S341 (step S341; No), it is determined whether or not the current time is the reach effect period for executing the reach effect (step S342). The reach production period may be determined in advance, for example, in the set production control pattern. When it is determined in step S342 that it is the reach production period (step S342; Yes), it is determined whether or not the reach production is super reach (step S343). Whether it is super reach or not may be specified by a variation pattern designated by a variation pattern designation command, for example. Alternatively, it can be specified by the effect control pattern. When it is determined that it is super reach (step S343; Yes), a temporary display process for temporarily displaying the volume image VL is executed when there is a request from the player even during super reach (step S344). ). That is, when the player operates the volume button 31C during super reach, the volume image VL (FIG. 29) is displayed on the display screen of the image display device 5 for a predetermined period (for example, 3 seconds).

  FIG. 23 is a flowchart illustrating an example of temporary display processing.

  The effect control CPU 120 first determines whether or not the non-super-reach operation flag is set to the on state (step S701). When the non-super-reach operation flag is set to the on state (step S701; Yes), it is determined whether the elapsed time at which the measurement is started in step S607 has reached a predetermined period (for example, 3 seconds) ( Step S702). If the predetermined period has not been reached (step S702; No), it is determined whether or not the volume button 31C has been operated (step S703). Whether or not the volume button 31C is operated is determined based on whether or not an operation detection signal (a signal indicating a player's operation action on the volume button 31C) is supplied from the volume button sensor 35C (hereinafter the same).

  When there is an operation on the volume button 31C (step S703; Yes), a volume is set according to the operation detection signal according to the operation content indicated by the operation detection signal, and a volume image VL indicating the volume after the operation. Display control is performed, and the measurement of the elapsed time from this point is started again in order to remeasure the predetermined period, which is the display period of the volume image VL (step S704). The description of the display control conforms to the description of step S607. The elapsed time measurement is started again by, for example, resetting an initial value corresponding to a predetermined period in a predetermined timer used for measuring the elapsed time (the same applies hereinafter).

  When there is no operation of the volume button (step S703; No), there is no change in the volume, and display control for continuing the display of the volume image VL is performed to continue the volume display (step S716).

  When the elapsed time from the start of measurement in step S607 reaches a predetermined period (for example, 3 seconds), display control for deleting the volume image VL (display end) is executed (step S705). Further, the non-super-reach operation flag is turned off (step S706).

  When the non-super-reach operation flag is off (step S701; No), it is determined whether or not the super-reach operation flag is set to the on state (step S707).

  If the super reach operation flag is off in step S707 (step S707; No), it is determined whether or not the volume button 31C is operated (step S708).

  When there is an operation on the volume button 31C (step S708; Yes), the volume is set according to the operation detection signal according to the operation content indicated by the operation detection signal, and the volume image VL indicating the volume after the operation is displayed. Display control to be started is performed, and measurement of the elapsed time from this point is started in order to measure a predetermined period which is a display period of the volume image VL (step S709). The description of step S709 conforms to the description of step S607. However, here, the display of the volume image VL that has not been displayed due to the execution of super reach is started. After step S709, the super reach operation flag is turned on (step S710). If there is no operation of the volume button (step S703; No), this process ends.

  If the super-reach operation flag is on in step S707 (step S707; Yes), it is determined whether the elapsed time started in step S709 has reached a predetermined period (for example, 3 seconds) (step S707). S711).

  When the predetermined period has not been reached (step S711; No), it is determined whether or not the volume button 31C has been operated (step S712). When there is an operation (step S712; Yes), a display control for setting the volume according to the operation detection signal and displaying the volume image VL indicating the volume after the operation according to the operation content indicated by the operation detection signal. And the measurement of the elapsed time from this point is started again in order to remeasure the predetermined period, which is the display period of the volume image VL (step S713). The description of the processing of steps S712 and S713 is in accordance with the description of steps S703 to S704. If there is no operation (step S712; No), the process of step S716 is executed.

  If the predetermined period has been reached (step S711; Yes), display control for deleting the volume image VL (display end) is executed (step S714). Further, the non-super-reach operation flag is turned off (step S715).

  By the temporary display process, the display of the volume image VL is ensured even when the volume button 31C is operated and the volume is changed immediately before super reach (FIG. 31A). Further, when the volume button 31C is operated while the volume image VL is being displayed, the measurement for a predetermined period is performed again from the beginning (steps S703 and S704). Therefore, when the volume button 31C is continuously operated, The start point can be the last operation timing. Furthermore, the temporary display process ensures the display of the volume image VL when the volume button 31C is operated during super reach to change the volume (FIG. 30B). Further, when the volume button 31C is operated while the volume image VL is displayed, the measurement for a predetermined period is performed again from the beginning (steps S712 and S713). Therefore, when the volume button 31C is continuously operated, The start point can be the last operation timing.

  Returning to FIG. 22, when it is determined that it is not super reach (step S343; No), after executing the process of step S344, control for executing the reach effect is performed (step S345).

  When it is determined in step S342 that it is not the reach effect period (step S342; No), after executing the process of step S345, other effects during variable display such as variable display of decorative symbols are executed. Effect operation control is performed (step S347), and the variable display effect processing is terminated.

  If the variable display time has elapsed in step S341 (step S341; Yes), it is determined whether or not a symbol confirmation designation command has been received (step S351). At this time, if the symbol confirmation designation command is not received (step S351; No), the variable display effect process is terminated and waits. If the predetermined time has passed without receiving the symbol confirmation designation command after the variable display time has elapsed, the predetermined error processing is performed in response to the failure to receive the symbol confirmation designation command normally. It may be executed.

  If a symbol confirmation designation command is received in step S351 (step S351; Yes), for example, a decorative symbol variable display such as transmitting a predetermined display control command to the VDP or the like of the display control unit 123, for example. In step S352, the final stop symbol (determined ornament symbol) that is the display result is displayed and displayed. At this time, a predetermined time is set as the hit start designation command reception waiting time (step S353). Further, after the value of the effect process flag is updated to “3” (step S354), the effect process during variable display is ended.

  The special figure waiting process in step S173 in FIG. 13 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “3”. The effect control CPU 120 determines whether or not the current elapsed time since the last stop symbol is derived and displayed (measured with a predetermined timer) has reached a preset hit start designation command reception waiting time. However, if a hit start designation command is received when it has not been reached, the start setting of the big hit effect (the effect from the start of the fanfare to the ending before the end of the big hit game state) (set of the effect control pattern) Etc.). Thereafter, the value of the effect process flag is updated to “4”, and this process is terminated. If the hit start designation command reception waiting time has not been reached and no hit start designation command has been received, this processing is terminated. If the current elapsed time has reached the waiting time, the variable display result of the special figure game is determined to be “lost”, the value of the effect process flag is updated to “0”, and this process is terminated. Since the current elapsed time has not reached the waiting time and the waiting start designation command reception waiting time has not elapsed, the present process is terminated.

  The hitting process in step S174 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “4”. For example, the effect control CPU 120 performs effect operation control for executing an effect during the big hit. Then, when the winning end designation command is received, all the round games are finished, so the start setting of the ending effect (such as setting of the effect control pattern) is performed, and the value of the effect process flag is set to “ It is updated to “5” and the hitting process is terminated. If the winning end designation command has not been received, since all the round games have not ended, this processing is ended as it is.

  The ending process of step S175 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “5”, and is a process for executing the ending at the end of the big hit gaming state. The effect control CPU 120 determines whether the current timing is the end timing of the ending. The end timing may be defined by the production control pattern. If it is not the end timing, the ending effect operation control is performed, and this processing is ended. If the current time is the end timing, mission mode start setting is performed (step S862). The value of the effect process flag is updated to “0” (step S864), and this process ends.

(Example of production screen)
On the demonstration screen displayed on the image display device 5, first, a normal demonstration screen without operation guidance is displayed (FIG. 24A), and operation guidance (including guidance images SH1 and SH2) is displayed after a predetermined time has elapsed. (FIG. 24B). On the normal demonstration screen, an effect image (not shown) is displayed as appropriate. When the push button 31B is operated after the operation guidance is displayed, the display screen transitions from the normal demonstration screen to the parent menu screen (the menu screen is called up) (FIG. 24C).

  On the parent menu screen (FIG. 24C), “background customization”, “game customization”, “BGM customization”, “return”, “RESET” are displayed (the function of each item is as described above). Also see FIG. As shown in FIG. 25, when “background customization” is selected and confirmed in the parent menu, the demo screen changes to a child menu screen for background customization. On the child menu screen, “ground”, “underwater”, “sky”, “return”, and “RESET” are displayed (the function of each item is as described above. See also FIG. 25). As shown in FIG. 26, when “game customization” is selected and confirmed in the parent menu, the demo screen changes to a child menu screen for game customization. On the child menu screen, “vibration”, “premier up”, “pattern intense heat mode” are displayed together with “ON”, “OFF”, and “return”, “RESET” are also displayed (function of each item) Is as described above (see also FIG. 26). As shown in FIG. 27, when “BGM customization” is selected and confirmed in the parent menu, the demo screen transitions to a child menu screen for game performance customization. On the child menu screen, “Song” and “Sound effect” are displayed together with “ON” and “OFF”, and “Return” and “RESET” are also displayed (the function of each item is as described above). (See also FIG. 27).

  FIG. 28 shows an effect example in the case of no operation on the volume button 31C in super reach. In this case, the volume image VL is displayed on the image display device 5 when the reach is established (FIG. 28A), but the volume image VL is erased by the start of super reach (FIGS. 28B and 28C). ) The display of the volume image VL is resumed by the end of super reach (FIG. 28D).

  FIG. 29 shows an example of an effect when there is an operation on the volume button 31C in Super Reach. In this case, the volume image VL is displayed on the image display device 5 when the reach is established (FIG. 29A), but the volume image VL is deleted by the start of super reach (FIG. 29B). When the volume button 31C is operated, a volume image VL indicating the volume after the change by the operation is displayed (FIG. 29 (C1)). The display of the volume image VL continues for a predetermined period and is erased after the predetermined period has elapsed (FIG. 29 (C2)). Thereafter, the display of the volume image VL is resumed by the end of the super reach (FIG. 29D). Note that the volume image VL displayed during super reach may be displayed in a different mode and / or at a different position from that during normal (non-super reach).

(Volume image VL display period, etc.)
FIG. 30A is a timing chart for explaining a display period of the volume image VL when the volume button is not operated in the super reach as in FIG. As shown in FIG. 30A, when the volume button 31C is not operated during the super reach, the volume image VL is displayed on the image display device 5 except during the super reach.

  FIG. 30B is a timing chart for explaining a display period of the volume image VL when the volume button operation is performed in the super reach as in FIG. As shown in FIG. 30 (B), the volume image VL is displayed on the image display device 5 except during super reach, and when the volume button 31C is operated during super reach, the volume image VL is output for a predetermined period from the operation. An image VL is displayed.

  FIG. 31A is a timing chart for explaining a display period of the volume image VL when the volume button operation is performed immediately before super reach. As shown in FIG. 31A, the volume image VL is displayed on the image display device 5 except during super-reach, and if there is an operation of the volume button 31C immediately before super-reach, only a predetermined period from the operation is performed. Volume image VL is displayed (display of volume image VL is delayed). As shown in FIG. 31B, the start of the predetermined period may be the start of super reach. Even if the volume button 31C is operated immediately before the start of super reach, the volume image VL is displayed in an extended manner, and the volume image VL is deleted at the start timing of super reach (the volume image VL after the operation is deleted). Display period) can be prevented.

  FIG. 31C is a timing chart for explaining the display period of the volume image VL when the volume button operation is performed immediately before the end of super reach. As shown in FIG. 31B, the volume image VL is displayed on the image display device 5 except during super-reach, and if the volume button 31C is operated immediately before super-reach is terminated, Even if VL has super-reach end, it is displayed continuously. As shown in FIG. 31B, the start of the predetermined period may be the start of super reach. Even if the volume button 31C is operated immediately before the start of super reach, the volume image VL is displayed in an extended manner, and the volume image VL is deleted at the start timing of super reach (the volume image VL after the operation is deleted). Display period) can be prevented. Thereby, even when the display of the volume image VL is started immediately before the end of the super reach effect, the display of the volume image VL is continued, and once the predetermined period has elapsed after the operation, the volume image VL is temporarily deleted and displayed again. It is possible to omit useless processing.

  When the operation of the volume button 31C is continued, the start of the predetermined period is the timing of the last operation among the continuous operations, and thereby the display period of the volume image VL can be secured.

(Effects of this embodiment)
The pachinko gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment can initialize the variable display effect setting for each setting category (“RESET” in each child menu screen of FIGS. 25 to 27), and each variable display is being displayed when the parent menu is displayed. The production settings can be initialized collectively (“RESET” on the parent menu screen in FIG. 24). For this reason, initialization according to the player's intention is possible, and the burden on the player regarding the effect setting (in particular, initialization here) can be reduced. In particular, when it is desired to initialize all the variable display effect settings, it is not necessary to initialize for each setting category, and batch initialization is easy. In particular, as in this embodiment, if it is necessary to initialize the setting categories on each child menu screen, it is very troublesome to initialize all the setting categories, but the parent menu that displays the setting categories Since an item that can be initialized in batch for each setting category is provided on the screen, batch initialization for each setting category can be facilitated. Thus, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to reduce the burden on the player related to the effect setting (in particular, here, initialization).

  In the present embodiment, the variable display effect setting that can be changed via the menu screen and the volume setting that can be changed at any time are provided, so that the setting can be changed at an appropriate timing (and the volume setting can be changed). Can be changed easily without using the menu screen.)

  In this embodiment, when “RESET” is selected and confirmed on the parent menu screen, only the variable display effect setting included in the setting category displayed on the parent menu screen is initialized, and the parent menu screen is displayed. Volumes that are not displayed are not initialized. As a result, it is possible to prevent the volume from being displayed on the parent menu screen from being initialized. In particular, when initialization is performed from the menu screen, it is recognized that what is displayed on the menu screen is initialized. It will be initialized. Such inconvenience can be solved by not initializing the volume that is not displayed on the parent menu screen.

  In the present embodiment, as a variable display effect setting, a setting to increase the execution frequency of the premier effect (a setting to turn on “premier up”) is possible, and an effect with a frequency according to the player's preference. Can be executed.

  Further, since the sound volume image VL is displayed on the image display device 5 so as to be visible on the image display device 5 regardless of whether or not the sound volume button 31C is operated, the sound volume image VL can always be visually recognized in a state other than the super reach. Further, during super reach, the volume image VL is not visible, and when the volume button 31C is operated, the volume image VL is displayed based on the operation until a predetermined period elapses. That is, during super reach, the display of the volume image VL can be minimized. Thus, the volume image VL can be displayed according to the player's request (when the volume button 31C is operated, for example, the user wants to check the volume with the volume image VL) while suppressing the reduction in the effect of super reach. The interest of the game can be improved.

  In addition, an effect that does not allow the volume image VL to be visually recognized is an effect (here, a super reach effect) that suggests an advantageous state advantageous to the player. For this reason, it is possible to display the volume image VL according to the player's request while suppressing a decrease in the effect of the super reach effect, and to improve the interest of the game.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 28 and FIG. 30, the volume image VL is displayed at a position not covered by the decorative pattern at the time of fluctuation stop, so that the final stop symbol of the decorative pattern, that is, the visual recognition of the game result is not hindered. In this way, the volume can be displayed.

  Further, in the game state (second state) during the super reach effect, the volume image VL is displayed only for a predetermined period (or a predetermined period from the start of display of the volume image VL) from the detection of the operation of the stick controller 31A by the player. The display of the volume image VL can be minimized. Thereby, it is possible to display the volume image VL according to the player's request while suppressing a decrease in the effect of the super reach effect (specific effect), and to improve the interest of the game.

  When the volume button 31C is operated immediately before the transition to super reach, that is, when the predetermined period (3 seconds) has not elapsed since the operation of the volume button 31C at the start of super reach, the volume image VL is displayed. Since the display is extended (FIGS. 31A and 31B), the display of the volume image VL can be extended and displayed for a predetermined period after the super reach. That is, it is possible to prevent the volume image VL from being quickly erased at the start timing of the super reach when the volume button 31C is operated immediately before the start of super reach, and the display period of the volume image VL is not ensured and the user feels uncomfortable. It can be prevented from occurring. Further, it is not necessary for the player to operate the volume button 31C again immediately after the super reach is started, and a user-friendly gaming machine can be provided.

  Contrary to the above, the volume button 31C is operated immediately before the end of super reach and the display of the volume image VL is started, and the predetermined period (3 seconds) has not elapsed after the operation of the volume button 31C at the end of super reach. In this case, since the display of the volume image VL is continued without being erased even once, the process of erasing the display of the volume image VL when a predetermined period has elapsed can be eliminated. In other words, since the volume image VL is always displayed except for the super reach, it is possible to omit a wasteful process of erasing the volume image VL once when a predetermined period elapses and starting display again. In addition, it is possible to prevent an uncomfortable feeling that the display of the volume image VL disappears for a moment at the timing when the predetermined period has elapsed.

(Modification)
The present invention is not limited to the above embodiment, and various modifications and applications can be made to the above embodiment. For example, the pachinko gaming machine 1 does not have to include all the technical features shown in the above embodiment, and the part described in the above embodiment so as to solve at least one problem in the prior art. It may be provided with the following structure. Although modifications are listed below, at least some of the modifications described below may be combined with each other.

(Modification 1)
At least one of the setting categories may be an effect setting itself. For example, as shown in FIG. 32, presentation settings may be changed for one setting category on the parent menu screen (see “background customization” and “game customization”). In the example of FIG. 32, the background of “background customization” can be set on the parent menu screen, and the overall expectation level of big hit of “game characteristics customization” can be set on the parent menu screen. At this time, “RESET1” corresponding to “background customization”, “RESET2” corresponding to “game customization”, and “ALL RESET” may be displayed on the parent menu screen. At this time, when “RESET1” is selected and confirmed, “background customization” is initialized, and when “RESET2” is selected and confirmed, “game customization” is initialized and “ALL RESET” is selected and confirmed. Then, the variable display effect settings included in “background customization”, “game customization”, and “BGM customization” are collectively initialized. This also reduces the player's burden of initialization.

(Modification 2)
It should be noted that the effect control CPU 120 notifies the display control unit 123 only of the display start / erase of the volume image VL and the change of the display content (change of the volume by operating the volume button 31C), and continues to display the volume image VL. This may be controlled on the display control unit 123 side. Similarly, with respect to effects (including demo display), the effect control CPU 120 notifies only the start, end, and change (including screen transitions) of the effect, and displays the effect screen (such as playing an effect video). May be controlled on the display control unit 123 side.

(Modification 3)
The start (start timing) of the predetermined period (for example, 3 seconds) when the volume button 31C is continuously operated may be the first operation. However, the display period of the volume image VL can be sufficiently secured when the last operation time is set as the start timing as in the above embodiment. The volume image VL may be displayed until a predetermined period (for example, 3 seconds) elapses from the start of display.

(Modification 4)
As shown in FIG. 33, in addition to the volume image VL, a luminance image IL indicating the current luminance of the display screen of the image display device 5 may be displayed (in this case, the luminance is adjusted). It is recommended to provide a separate button and perform the same processing as the volume). For example, only the luminance image IL may be displayed instead of the volume image VL. In this way, brightness adjustment may be possible. A plurality of modes with different execution frequencies of predetermined notice effects (the pattern effects and the like) are prepared, and a mode display image MD indicating the current mode is displayed instead of the volume image VL as shown in FIG. You may do it. As shown in FIG. 34B, when the mode display image MD is “active”, the execution frequency of the predetermined notice effect is high, and when the mode display image MD is “normal”, the predetermined notice effect is executed. When the frequency is medium and the mode display image MD is “simple”, the execution frequency of the predetermined notice effect is low. The mode display image MD may be displayed together with at least one of the volume image VL and the luminance image IL. As described above, the production settings that are always displayed on the screen basically (for example, the production settings that are also displayed during variable display) are not limited to the sound volume, and various types can be considered. Further, such effect settings may be changed via a menu screen, such as a variable display effect setting, in addition to those that can be changed constantly, such as volume. Note that the volume and brightness may be changed via the menu screen. The following description of the volume image VL can also be applied to other displays such as the luminance image IL.

(Modification 5)
When the operation means used on the menu screen is the same as the operation means for changing the volume (for example, when the stick controller 31A is used for both), the volume image VL is displayed on the menu screen. You may not do it. This is because the volume image VL cannot be changed by the operation means.

(Modification 6)
In the above-described embodiment, only the “vibration” can be switched on / off. However, it is possible to make a setting for changing the execution ratio of the effect of the vibration. For example, at the timing when the vibration effect should be executed, the effect may be executed at a rate of 90% in the first setting, and the effect may be executed at a rate of 10% in the second setting. For example, similar to a premier effect, a table with a different determination ratio may be prepared and execution of a vibration effect may be determined. The execution frequency may be three or more stages in addition to two stages of high and low. Further, one of the steps may be executed 100% or not.

  Regarding the above “song”, when “song” is on, it is BGM with a song, and when “song” is off, it is BGM without a song, but the BGM is a different song even if it is the same song. Also good. Specifically, by switching on / off the “song”, the presence or absence of a song may be switched for the same song, or the first song with a song and the second song without a song (instrument) may be switched. Good. Further, the player may be able to set a plurality of BGM and sound effects. Note that the selection ratio of which of the plurality of BGMs is selected as the effect sound may be changed as the effect setting.

(Modification 7)
In the above embodiment, the volume image VL is erased and cannot be viewed, but the volume image VL may be displayed in a form that is difficult to view as shown in FIG. For example, as shown in FIG. 35 (A), the volume image VL is displayed in a semi-transparent display mode, or as shown in FIG. 35 (B), the volume image VL is displayed in a very small reduced mode (micro display mode). You may do it. In these cases, the volume image VL is difficult to visually recognize, and the effect of the semi-transparent or minute size volume image VL on the display mode of super reach can be reduced. be able to. For example, instead of erasing the volume image VL, the volume image VL may be controlled to be displayed in a manner that is difficult to visually recognize.

(Modification 8)
Moreover, you may make it alert | report that a sound volume adjustment is always possible. For example, as shown in FIG. 36, it may be notified by a telop display that the volume adjustment is always possible. In FIG. 36A, the telop display is a display mode in which the character information “Volume can be adjusted at any time!” Is moved from the right end to the left end of the upper part of the screen of the image display device 5 at a visible speed. Further, as shown in FIG. 36B, it may be notified by executing the explanation effect that the volume adjustment is always possible. In FIG. 36B, the explanatory effect is a display mode in which a character or the like appears on the screen of the image display device 5 and displays character information “Volume can be adjusted at any time!”. In addition to the telop display or the explanation effect, a sound indicating the content of notification such as “You can adjust the volume anytime!” Or a sound effect related to the notification may be output. Here, the telop display and the explanation effect display are executed during the variable display, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a telop display or an explanation effect display may be executed during a demonstration display in a big hit gaming state.

  According to such a modification, the image display device 5 notifies that the volume adjustment is always possible, so that the player can recognize that the volume adjustment is always possible. Moreover, you may alert | report that the change of presentation settings, such as brightness adjustment and mode switching, is always possible besides volume adjustment. Note that this notification may be, for example, notification during a demonstration display.

(Modification 9)
In addition, the display position and size of the decorative pattern variable display may be changed according to the progress of the production (such as the progress of the variable display).

(Modification 10)
Instead of or in addition to super reach, in the big hit gaming state, the volume image VL may not be displayed unless the volume button 31C is operated. In such a case, display of the volume image VL may be considered by changing the super reach to the big hit gaming state. Thereby, during execution of the big hit effect that is an example of the effect that the player particularly wants to show, the volume image VL can be prevented from being displayed, and the reduction in the effect of the big hit effect can be suppressed. It should be noted that the volume display can be made easy to understand by setting the volume image VL in the same manner when the volume button 31C is operated in a state other than the jackpot gaming state and when the volume button 31C is operated during the jackpot gaming state (super reach reach). And so on.) The volume image VL may have a different display position and / or size depending on the two cases. As described above, according to the modified example 8, the reduction in the effect of the specific effect during the big hit (for example, the round effect during the big hit, the blessing effect during the big hit, etc.) is suppressed, and according to the player's request. The volume image VL can be displayed, and the fun of the game can be improved.

  The jackpot period in the jackpot gaming state (period in which the volume image VL is not displayed) is a period in which the attacker opens (opens the big prize opening), that is, a round gaming period, but is not limited thereto. For example, the jackpot period may be a period including a fanfare period, a period in which an attacker opens repeatedly (round game period), and an ending period that is executed when the jackpot game state ends. Note that at least one of the three periods may be a big hit period.

(Modification 11)
When an error occurs in the pachinko gaming machine 1, the volume image VL) may not be displayed. In this case, the error display can be reliably displayed, and it is possible to prevent the error display from being difficult to see or obstructed by the volume image VL.

(Modification 12)
The operation guidance may be displayed immediately after the demonstration starts, but may be displayed after a certain period of time as described above. Thereby, it is possible to reduce the player from feeling uncomfortable that the game is not being played by the operation guidance even though the game ball is flowing down, and to reduce a decrease in the interest of the game. In addition, when there is a transition operation to the menu screen (operation of the push button 31B) before the operation guidance is displayed, the operation may be accepted and the screen transition to the menu screen may be performed (thereby, The production settings can be changed immediately in response to the player's request).

(Modification 13)
A flag that is turned on when the variable display effect setting is changed from the initial setting is prepared in the RAM 122, and whether or not the variable display effect setting is initialized collectively when the flag is turned on when the demonstration display starts. A screen that can be selected by the user (for example, “YES” to be selected when initializing, and “No” to be selected and fixed when not initializing are displayed together with a message “Do you want to initialize?” In addition, an image for notifying that the effect setting during variable display has been changed may be displayed. Demo display may be performed on the back (rear layer) of the screen. Normally, in one gaming machine, after the previous player's game, other players play games, so when the variable display effect setting is changed, the initial setting can be understood in the first place. Hateful. It is also assumed that the previous player's variable display effect setting does not suit the later player's preference. By performing the initialization guidance at the start of the demonstration as in this modified example 11, the initialization can be simplified, and the player can easily initialize the variable display effect setting (reducing the player's burden related to the effect setting) it can.). It should be noted that the effect settings for which initialization is guided in this way may include settings not included in the variable display effect settings such as the volume (particularly, effect settings that can be changed without going through the menu screen). Since it is difficult for the subsequent player to understand the initial setting of the volume and the like, it may be initialized as in this modified example. As described above, when the player is supposed to change at the stage of demonstration display execution or the like, providing means for the player to initialize the effect setting can reduce the player's burden related to the effect setting.

(Modification 14)
After starting the demonstration, the above operation guidance is not performed when the launch of the game ball is detected by a predetermined launch sensor, and when the launch of the game ball cannot be detected for a specific time, the operation guide is started immediately or after the predetermined time has elapsed. May be. Thereby, like the tenth modification, it is possible to reduce a decrease in interest of the game.

(Modification 15)
Only when the volume button is operated, the volume image VL is displayed for a predetermined period (see FIGS. 37A to 37C. In FIG. 37, the volume is represented by a number), and the predetermined volume is displayed. When there is a derivation display of the fixed decorative pattern within the period, the displayed volume image VL may be erased even within the predetermined period (FIGS. 37D to 37E). In such a configuration, particularly when the displayed volume image VL is covered (overlapped) with a decorative pattern (including a decorative pattern during variable display) as shown in FIG. 37 (the volume can be conspicuous thereby). It is effective for. Thereby, the visibility of the variable display result (determined decorative design) to be derived and displayed can be ensured.

(Modification 16)
As for the volume display, the next display hierarchy order (layer display order) may be set. For example, in the VDP in the display control unit 123 of the effect control board 12, the priority of the display order is set for various display images to be displayed on the image display device 5, and the display images are stored in the memory map in the order of decreasing priority. It is possible to generate one frame image (1/30 second) by stacking. Here, the display image for error display is set as having the highest priority in the display order, and the display image for volume (that is, the layer for displaying the volume image VL) is set as the next priority in the display order. The display order priority such as display images of other effects display (for example, variable display of decorative symbols, hold display, reach effect display, jackpot effect display, etc.) is given as the next highest display order priority. You may make it set. If the priority of the display order is set, if an error occurs, the display image of the error display has the highest priority, so it is not hidden by other display images, and the error display is accurately performed. Can be notified. Further, in a normal gaming state in which no error has occurred, the priority order of the sound volume display image is higher than that of the other display images, so that the sound volume image VL can be displayed easily. That is, the desired display based on the player's action can be displayed most easily. In other words, the display desired by the player can be displayed most easily.

(Modification 17)
In the above-described embodiment and the like, the volume display processing is provided independently of the processing in steps S170 to S175 in the effect control process, but in each processing in steps S170 to S175. The volume image VL may be hidden during execution of the super reach in the variable display process, or may be hidden during the big hit effect in the hit process.

(Modification 18)
When the volume button 31C is operated once during the super reach, the volume image VL indicating the current volume (the volume that has not been changed by the operation) is displayed first, and the second operation before the volume image VL disappears. The volume may be changed according to the operation.

(Modification 19)
The variable display (simply variable display) of the identification information (special drawing, decorative design, general drawing, etc.) includes that the identification information blinks. For example, in the special drawing, the variable display also includes a pattern in which all the segments are turned off and one pattern in which at least some of the segments are turned on (for example, a lost pattern) are alternately repeated. Note that the special symbol that is stopped and displayed in the variable display may be a different symbol from the special symbol that is displayed before the stop display (during change) (the same applies to decorative symbols and normal symbols). For example, when the identification information is variably displayed in 7 segments or the like, the middle horizontal bar is repeatedly turned on and off during fluctuation, but only the middle horizontal bar is not derived and displayed as a display result.

(Modification 20)
In the above embodiment, one change is made when variable display is started in order to notify the effect control board 12 of a change pattern indicating a variable display time (special drawing change time), a variable display mode of decorative symbols, and the like. Although an example in which the pattern designation command is transmitted has been shown, the variation pattern may be notified to the effect control board 12 side by two or more commands. Specifically, in the case of notifying by two commands, the CPU 103 of the game control microcomputer 100 uses the first command before reaching reach, such as the presence or absence of quasi-continuous fluctuation (if it does not reach, the so-called second (2) Before the stop, send a command indicating the variable display time and variable display mode, and after the second command has reached reach, such as the type of reach and presence / absence of re-lottery effect (if not reach) A command indicating a variable display time or a variable display mode after the so-called second stop may be transmitted. In this case, in the effect control board 12, for example, the effect control CPU 120 may perform effect control in variable display based on a variable display time derived from a combination of two commands. In the game control microcomputer 100, the variable display time is notified by each of the two commands, and a specific variable display mode executed at each timing is selected by the effect control CPU 120. It may be. When sending two commands, the two commands may be sent within the same timer interrupt, or after the first command is sent, after a predetermined period of time elapses (for example, in the next timer interrupt) ) A second command may be transmitted. The variable display mode indicated by each command is not limited to this example, and the order of transmission can be changed as appropriate. In this way, by notifying the variation pattern using two or more commands, the amount of data that must be stored as the variation pattern designation command can be reduced.

(Modification 21)
In addition, the device configuration and data configuration of the gaming machine, the processing shown in the flowchart, the image display operation in the image display device, the sound output operation in the speaker, and the lighting operation in the light emitter unit, game effect lamp, and decoration LED are also included. Various rendering operations and the like can be arbitrarily changed and modified without departing from the spirit of the present invention. In addition, the gaming machine of the present invention is not limited to a payout type gaming machine that pays out a predetermined number of gaming media as prizes based on the occurrence of winnings, and is scored based on the occurrence of winnings by enclosing gaming media It can also be applied to an enclosed game machine that gives

(Modification 22)
In the above embodiment, the jackpot type includes “probability change”, and the probability change control condition is established based on the fact that the determination result of the jackpot type is “probability change”. It was described as being controlled. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and a game ball that has won (entered) a big winning opening (second large winning opening) in the probability changing attacker provided at a predetermined position in the gaming area has been detected by the probability changing detection switch. Based on the above, the probability variation control condition may be established, and the gaming state after the end of the big hit gaming state may be controlled to the certain probability variation state. The winning prize opening (second winning prize opening) of the probability variation attacker can change from a closed state to an open state when the number of round games executed in the big hit gaming state is a predetermined number of times (for example, “15”). When the number of times of execution of the game is other than the predetermined number, it may not be possible to change to the open state in the closed state. As described above, the pachinko gaming machine 1 can establish the probability variation control condition based on the fact that the game ball has passed the specific area in the attacker that is an example of the special variable winning device provided in the game area. You may be comprised so that it may become.

(Modification 23)
The program and data for realizing the present invention are limited to a form distributed and provided by a detachable recording medium to a computer device included in a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine 1 or a slot machine. Instead of this, a form distributed by preinstalling in a storage device such as a computer device may be adopted. Furthermore, the program and data for realizing the present invention are distributed by downloading from other devices on a network connected via a communication line or the like by providing a communication processing unit. It doesn't matter.

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

(Modification 24)
[Example of music selection control]
In the pachinko gaming machine 1, the music to be played during the game may be changed. Further, the child menu screen may be scrolled in the horizontal direction (FIG. 38A). Hereinafter, a music selection control process that enables selection of music to be played during a game will be described. In this modification, the parent menu screen is also referred to as a main menu screen, the child menu screen is also referred to as a submenu screen, and the demonstration display is also referred to as a customer waiting demonstration display. The music selection control process is executed by the effect control CPU 120.

[Configuration of menu screen]
The menu screen is, for example, various settings that can be selected by the player on the image display device 5 at a specific timing such as a customer waiting demonstration display (abbreviation of a customer waiting demonstration display) and a start of a big game state. It is a display screen which presents an item with an option form (menu form) image. The customer waiting demonstration display refers to displaying a predetermined image as a demonstration display other than an image displayed during the game on the image display device 5 in a state where the game is not executed for a predetermined period (a customer waiting state). The menu screen includes a main menu screen and a sub menu screen. The main menu screen is a screen that displays an upper menu image that can display main setting items in a list format. The submenu screen is a screen that displays the detailed items of the setting items that have been selected and determined in response to selection or determination of any of the setting items displayed on the main menu screen.

  On the main menu screen in the menu screen, icon images (hereinafter referred to as icons) corresponding to each of a plurality of types of setting items are displayed side by side in the vertical direction. The plural types of setting items include music selection settings for setting music to be played during a game. On the main menu screen, as the icon image corresponding to the music selection setting, a music image that is an icon image that can specify information related to the music is displayed.

  On the main menu screen, a selectable display in which an icon corresponding to one selectable setting item among a plurality of types of setting items is highlighted (high luminance display) is displayed. When the stick controller 31A operable in the front-rear direction and the left-right direction is tilted forward, the selectable display icon is switched upward, and the stick controller 31A is tilted backward. Accordingly, the icon that can be selected is switched downward. When the push button 31B is operated, the display screen is switched from the main menu screen to a submenu screen corresponding to a setting item corresponding to an icon that is displayed as selectable.

[Composition of music selection screen]
FIG. 38 is a diagram illustrating a control example of music selection control executed when music is selected and determined using a music selection screen displayed as a submenu screen.

  FIG. 38A shows a music selection screen display example that can be displayed on the image display device 5. FIG. 38B shows a cyclic image of the music image on the music selection screen. FIG. 38C shows music image scroll speed setting data. FIG. 38D shows music image scroll mode setting data. FIG. 38 (E) shows scroll mode effect pattern data of a music image.

  When the music selection setting is selected and determined on the main menu screen according to the player's operation, a music selection screen as shown in FIG. 38A is displayed on the image display device 5 as a submenu screen. On the music selection screen, music images corresponding to a plurality of types (for example, six types) of music as shown in FIG. 38B can be displayed as a selectable music image 96 or a non-selectable music image 97. Music images corresponding to a plurality of types of music can be scroll-displayed in the left direction or the right direction in accordance with the circulation order indicated by the arrows in the figure. The music image is an icon-shaped image on which information (hereinafter referred to as music information) relating to music such as a music name is shown. In the scroll display of the music image, the music image moves in the left direction or the right direction as indicated by the arrow in FIG. 38A in response to the stick controller 31A being operated in the left direction or the right direction. Is executed.

  As shown in FIG. 38B, the music image displayed on the music selection screen includes a selectable music image 96 corresponding to the selectable music that can be selected for playback, and a music image for playback. A non-selectable music image 97 corresponding to a non-selectable music that cannot be selected yet is included. The selectable music image 96 and the non-selectable music image 97 are displayed separately based on the following conditions. For example, when the pachinko gaming machine 1 is turned on, predetermined music (for example, first music, second music) is initially set as a selectable music, and other music (for example, third music to sixth music) is selected. Initially set as impossible music. Then, every time a specific music addition condition is satisfied, control for adding and increasing selectable music is executed by the effect control CPU 120. Thereby, the unselectable music image 97 can be changed to the selectable music image 96 every time the music adding condition is satisfied.

  The specific music addition condition is, for example, a predetermined number of times (for example, the production control CPU 120 counts the number of times of variable display) (for example, the number of times of variable display of special symbols executed since the day of power-on). For example, 100 times, 200 times, 300 times, etc.).

  As shown in FIG. 38A, the selectable music image 96 and the non-selectable music image 97 can be displayed together on the music selection screen. Thereby, the interest of the player regarding the effect of reproducing the music can be increased and the interest of the game can be improved.

  The selectable music image 96 is displayed as an icon image in a display form in which an image such as music information is indicated by a color image. On the other hand, the non-selectable music image 97 is displayed as an icon image in a display mode in which an image such as music information is displayed as a gray image (monochrome image using gray or the like). In FIG. 38A, in order to distinguish the color image selectable music image 96 from the gray image non-selectable music image 97, the non-selectable music image 97 is indicated by hatching. As described above, the selectable music image 96 and the non-selectable music image 97 are displayed in different display modes, so that it is visually determined which music can be selected (reproduced) among a plurality of types of music. It is easily distinguishable.

  As shown in FIG. 38 (A), a selection area 98 is provided as an area in which the music image to be selected can be retained and displayed (stopped display) at the center of the music selection screen. On the music selection screen, in the selection area 98, any selectable music image 96 is retained and displayed (stopped display) in a display mode in which the entire image is displayed. In the music selection screen, the non-selectable music image 97 is not retained (stopped) in the selection area 98.

[Scroll display mode on the music selection screen]
When the stick controller 31A is tilted once in the left direction, the music image is scrolled and displayed in the left direction in accordance with the operation. On the other hand, when the stick controller 31A is tilted once in the right direction, the music image is scrolled and displayed in the right direction according to the operation. In the scroll display in either the left direction or the right direction, the selectable music image 96 displayed in the selection area 98 before the scroll display is displayed in accordance with the circulation order of the music images in accordance with one operation. After the scroll display, a new selectable music image 96 is changed. When such scroll display is performed, the non-selectable music image 97 is scroll-displayed according to the circulation order of the music images, but after being temporarily displayed on the selection area 98 (display so as to remain temporarily). , Display to move.

  As described below, the scroll display corresponding to the operation of the stick controller 31A is performed when the music image in the next circulation order in the circulation order in the scroll direction is the selectable music image 96, and when the music image 97 cannot be selected. It is executed in a different scroll display mode.

  In the scroll display of the music image, the music image 96 in the next circulation order in the circulation order in the scroll display direction of the selectable music image 96 staying displayed in the selection area 98 before the operation can be selected. In some cases, the selectable music image 96 that is displayed in the selected area 98 is changed to be displayed in the selected area 98 after the scrolling display is performed. Is done.

  That is, when the music image in the first circulation order is the selectable music image 96, the selectable music image 96 is newly displayed in the selection area 98 after scroll display. As a specific example, in the case of scrolling in the left direction, the music image corresponding to the first music that has been retained in the selection area 98 before the scroll display is the selectable music image 96, as shown in FIG. Thus, when the music image corresponding to the second music in the next circulation order of the first music is the selectable music image 96, the selectable music image 96 corresponding to the second music is newly selected after the scroll display. At 98, a stay is displayed.

  On the other hand, in the scroll display, the music image 97 in the next circulation order in the circulation order in the scroll direction of the selectable music image 96 that has been staying displayed in the selection area 98 before the operation is the non-selectable music image 97. In such a case, after the first non-selectable music image 97 in the circulation order is displayed once in the selection area 98 (display that temporarily stops), the next display is performed by scroll display regardless of the player's action. The selectable music image 96 corresponding to the next or subsequent order of the non-selectable music image 97 in the circulation order is newly displayed in the selection area 98, so that the selectable music image displayed in the selection area 98 is retained. 96 is changed.

  That is, when the music image 97 in the first circulation order is the non-selectable music image 97, after the scroll display, the non-selectable music image 97 including the non-selectable music image 97 in the subsequent circulation order is displayed. A display that passes through the selection area 98 while being temporarily displayed on the selection area 98 is displayed, and the selectable music image 96 in the subsequent circulation order is newly displayed in the selection area 98, so that the selection area 98 is displayed. The selectable music image 96 that is staying displayed is changed. As a specific example, in the case of scrolling in the right direction, the music image corresponding to the first music that is staying displayed in the selection area 98 before the scroll display is the selectable music image 96, as shown in FIG. Thus, the music images corresponding to the sixth music, the fifth music, and the fourth music in the next circulation order of the first music are the non-selectable music images 97, and the third music in the next circulation order is the third music. When the music image corresponding to the music is the selectable music image 96, the non-selectable music image 97 corresponding to each of the sixth music, the fifth music, and the fourth music is displayed on the selection area 98 in the scroll display. A display that passes over the selection area 98 while being temporarily displayed (display that stays temporarily) is displayed, and after the scroll display, a selectable music image 96 corresponding to the third music is newly selected. 8 is staying display to.

  In this way, on the music selection screen, the selectable music image 96 that stays in the selection area 98 by scroll display according to one operation by the player is displayed as the selectable image corresponding to the next order. It can be changed.

  As shown in FIG. 38 (A), in the areas on the left and right sides of the selection area 98 on the music selection screen, the music image in the circulation order immediately before the selectable music image 96 stopped and displayed in the selection area 98; Each of the music images in the next circulation order is stopped and displayed in a display mode in which a part of the image is displayed. As a result, the selectable music image 96 has a case where the entire image is stopped and a part of the image is stopped. On the other hand, the non-selectable music image 97 may not display the entire image in a stopped manner but may display a part of the image in a stopped manner. With respect to the non-selectable music image 97, a part of the image is stopped and displayed, so that it is possible to recognize that there is a non-selectable image, thereby improving the interest of the game.

[Scroll display setting on the music selection screen]
The scroll display on the music selection screen is based on the scroll speed setting data in FIG. 38 (C), the scroll mode setting data in FIG. 38 (D), and the scroll mode effect pattern data in FIG. 38 (E). (Production pattern) is set and executed.

  FIG. 38C shows scroll speed setting data used for setting the scroll speed when performing scroll display on the music selection screen. As shown in FIG. 38C, when scroll display is executed on the music selection screen, the scroll speed is set as follows.

  A selectable music image 96 and a selectable music image 96, such as between the first music image and the second music image in FIG. 38B and between the second music image and the third music image. In the scroll display between each other, the first speed V1 is set as the scroll speed. A non-selectable music image 97 and a non-selectable music image 97, such as between the fourth music image and the fifth music image in FIG. 38B and between the fifth music image and the sixth music image. Scroll display between and the second speed V2 is set as the scroll speed. In the scroll display between the selectable music image 96 and the non-selectable music image 97, such as between the first music image and the sixth music image in FIG. 38B, the second speed V2 is the scroll speed. Set as As shown in FIG. 38C, the second speed V2 is higher than the first speed V1.

  As described above, with regard to the scroll display on the music selection screen, the scroll speed differs between selectable music images and between non-selectable music images. Thereby, the effect pattern of the effect using scroll display comes to be varied, and the interest of the game can be improved. Regarding the speed of the scroll display, the second speed V2 between the non-selectable music images is higher than the first speed V1 between the selectable music images. This makes it possible to reduce the period during which the non-selectable music image 97 is displayed, thereby improving the interest of the game.

  FIG. 38D shows scroll mode setting data used when setting the scroll mode when performing scroll display on the music selection screen. The scroll mode is an effect pattern mode for scroll display. The scroll mode includes a low-speed scroll mode and a high-speed scroll mode.

  As shown in FIG. 38D, when the selection cycle 98 is the reference position and the next cyclic order of scrolling is the selectable music image 96, the low-speed scroll mode is selected. For example, when the first music image that is the selectable music image 96 is displayed in the selection area 98 while scrolling to the left from the state where the first music image is staying displayed, the next music order is the second music image that is the selectable music image 96. In some cases, the slow scroll mode is selected. On the other hand, with the selection area 98 as the reference position, when the next cyclic order of scrolling is the unselectable music image 97, the high-speed scroll mode is selected. For example, when the first music image that is the selectable music image 96 is displayed in the selection area 98 while scrolling to the right, the sixth music image whose next circulation order is the non-selectable music image 97 is displayed. When this is the fast scroll mode is selected.

  FIG. 38E shows effect pattern data of scroll display for each scroll mode. In the low-speed scroll mode, the music image is moved at the first speed V1, and the scroll display is executed in an effect pattern in which the selectable music image 96 of the next circulation order is retained and displayed in the selection area 98. For example, in the case where the first music image that is the selectable music image 96 in the selection area 98 is scrolled to the left from the state where the first music image is staying displayed, the music image is moved at the first speed V1 in the low speed scroll mode. Scroll display is performed in an effect pattern in which the second music image, which is the selectable music image 96 in the next circulation order, is retained and displayed in the selection area 98.

  In the high-speed scroll mode, the music image is moved at the second speed V2, and the non-selectable music image 97 of the next circulation order is temporarily displayed (displayed so as to remain temporarily) in the selection area 98 while being skipped. Finally, scroll display is executed in an effect pattern in which the next selectable music image in the next order after the non-selectable image in the next circulation order is retained in the selected area. For example, in the case where the first music image which is the selectable music image 96 is displayed in the selection area 98 while scrolling to the right, the music image is moved at the second speed V2 in the high-speed scroll mode. The sixth music image, the fifth music image, and the fourth music image, which are the non-selectable music images 97 in the next circulation order, are displayed in a skipped manner while being temporarily displayed on the selection area 98, and finally selected. The scroll display is executed in an effect pattern in which the third music image that is the possible music image 96 is retained and displayed in the selected area. The unselectable music image 97 is displayed once in the selection area 98, so that the player's interest in the production can be increased. In addition, since the music corresponding to the unselectable music image 97 cannot be selected, it is not left displayed, so that the player can misunderstand that the music can be selected.

  Data for displaying the music image shown in FIG. 38 (A), data on the circulation order of the music image shown in FIG. 38 (B), scroll speed setting data shown in FIG. 38 (C), and FIG. 38 (D). Each of the scroll mode setting data and the scroll mode effect pattern data shown in FIG. 38 (E) is stored in the ROM 121 for effect control, and when the scroll display is executed on the music selection screen, the scroll display is displayed. Used for various settings.

[Music selection process]
FIG. 39 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a music selection process executed by the effect control CPU 120. By executing the music selection process described below, the music to be played can be played by the player's operation at a specific timing such as when a customer waiting demonstration display (abbreviation for demonstration display) or at the start of a big hit gaming state. Selectable. This makes it possible to select and determine the music to be played during the game according to the player's intention (preference).

  When the music selection process is executed during the customer-waiting demonstration display, the music that has been selected and played is played back during the variation display of the effect design. When the music selection process is executed at the start of the big hit gaming state, the music selected and determined is reproduced, for example, during the big hit gaming state. Below, the example which performs a music selection process at the time of a customer waiting demonstration display is demonstrated.

  As described above, in the state where the music selection setting item (not shown) is selected and determined on the main menu screen and the music selection screen shown in FIG. Depending on the operation of the stick controller 31A and the operation of the push button 31B, the selection of the music to be played during the game can be determined.

  Specifically, in a state where the music selection screen is displayed, the displayed music image is scrolled in the left direction or the right direction based on the player tilting the stick controller 31A leftward or rightward. As a result, a selection switching operation for switching music images staying and displayed in the selection area 98 is possible. Further, in response to pressing the push button 31B, a determination operation for determining the music to be played during the game as the music corresponding to the music image staying and displayed in the selection area 98 is possible.

  When the music selection process is executed at the time of the customer waiting demonstration display, it is executed for a predetermined period during the execution of the customer waiting demonstration display in the effect control process. Specifically, it is executed during the demonstration execution process shown in FIG. Note that the music selection process may be executed at the start of the big hit gaming state. In this case, in the effect control process, the music selection process is executed for a predetermined period during execution of the customer waiting demonstration display. The music selection process may be executed not only at the time of the customer waiting demonstration display and at the start of the big hit gaming state, but also at other timing such as the start of the probability change state or the start of the short time state.

  In the music selection process, the effect control CPU 120 first determines whether or not the music selection flag is set in order to confirm whether or not the music selection screen is being displayed (S720). . The music selection flag is a flag for determining whether or not the music selection screen (FIG. 38A) is displayed, and when the music selection setting item is selected and determined on the main menu screen. Separately from the music selection process, it is set during the demo execution process shown in FIG. 16, and is reset in S730 described later. For example, the production control CPU 120 determines that the music selection screen is displayed if the music selection flag is set, and determines that the music selection screen is not displayed if it is not set.

  When the music selection flag is not set (S720; No), the effect control CPU 120 ends the music selection process. On the other hand, when the music selection flag is set (S720; Yes), the production control CPU 120 determines whether or not a selection switching operation has been performed by the stick controller 31A (S721). Specifically, in S721, the presence / absence of the selection switching operation is determined based on the detection signal from the controller sensor unit 35A.

  When there is no selection switching operation (S721; No), the production control CPU 120 executes a process of S727 described later. On the other hand, when there is a selection switching operation (S721; Yes), the effect control CPU 120 determines that the next order of the circulation order of the music image in the scroll display (left scroll display or right scroll display) according to the selection switching operation is It is determined whether or not the music image 96 is selectable (S722).

  For example, as shown in FIG. 38A, when the music image staying displayed in the selection area 98 is the first music image and the stick controller 31A is tilted once in the right direction, the scrolling to the left is performed. It is determined whether or not the second music image in the circulation order next to the first music image is the selectable music image 96 in the displayed circulation order. As shown in FIG. 38B, when the second music image is the selectable music image 96 (S722; Yes), the process of S725 described later is executed. On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 38A, when the music image staying displayed in the selection area 98 is the first music image, and the stick controller 31A is tilted once in the right direction, the right direction scrolling is performed. It is determined whether or not the sixth music image in the circulation order next to the first music image is the selectable music image 96 in the displayed circulation order. As shown in FIG. 38B, when the sixth music image is the non-selectable music image 97 (S722; No), the process of S723 described later is executed.

  If it is determined in S722 that the next order is not the selectable music image 96, the first selectable music image 96 after the next order of the circulation order of the music images in scroll display (left scroll display or right scroll display). Is determined as the next staying display image (S723). Then, scroll display for moving the next stay display image determined in S723 to the selection area 98 in the direction in which the selection switching operation is performed is executed in the high speed mode (S724).

  For example, as shown in FIG. 38A, when the music image staying displayed in the selection area 98 is the first music image and the stick controller 31A is tilted once in the right direction, the scrolling to the left is performed. As shown in FIG. 38B in the circulation order of the display, the music image in the circulation order next to the first music image is the sixth music image as the non-selectable music image 97. In that case, since the first selectable music image 96 after the next order of the sixth music image is the third music image, the third music image is determined as the next staying display image (S723). Then, scroll display for moving the third music image to the selection area 98 in the right direction is executed in the high speed mode (S724). As a result, right-direction scroll display in the high-speed mode is executed, and in the selection area 98, the sixth music image, the fifth music image, and the fourth music image are displayed in the order of these music images while being temporarily displayed. Finally, the third music image is retained and displayed.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in S722 that the next order is the selectable music image 96, the music image in the next order in the circulation order of the music images in scroll display (left scroll display or right scroll display) is displayed next time. The image is determined (S725). Then, the scroll display for moving the next stay display image determined in S725 to the selection area 98 in the direction in which the selection switching operation is performed is executed in the low speed mode (S726).

  For example, as shown in FIG. 38A, when the music image staying displayed in the selection area 98 is the first music image, and the stick controller 31A is tilted once in the left direction, the left scroll is performed. As shown in FIG. 38B in the circulation order of the display, the music image in the circulation order next to the first music image is the second music image as the selectable music image 96. In that case, the second music image which is the selectable music image 96 in the next order of the first music image is determined as the next staying display image (S725). Then, scroll display for moving the next staying display image determined in S725 to the left in the selection area 98 is executed in the low speed mode (S726). As a result, right-direction scroll display in the low speed mode is executed, and the second music image is retained and displayed in the selection area 98.

  After execution of S724, after execution of S726, or when it is determined in S721 that there has been no selection switching operation, the effect control CPU 120 determines whether or not there has been a determination operation for determining the selected music piece (S727). Specifically, in S727, the presence / absence of the determination operation by the push button 31B is determined based on the detection signal from the push sensor 35B.

  When there is no determination operation (S727; No), the production control CPU 120 ends the music selection process. On the other hand, when there is a determining operation (S727; Yes), the effect control CPU 120 determines that the music that is staying displayed in the selection area 98 is played back during the game (music played during the variable display) ( S728). For example, when the determination operation is performed in a state where the first music image is retained and displayed in the selection area 98, the music to be played during the game is determined as the first music corresponding to the first music image.

  The effect control CPU 120 determines (S728) that the music that is staying displayed in the selection area 98 is to be played during the game (the music that is played during the variable display), and then returns to the main menu screen from the music selection screen. (S729). Then, the music selection flag is reset (S729), and the music selection process is terminated. As described above, when the music to be played during the game is determined on the music selection screen, the display of the music selection screen is terminated and the main menu screen is displayed.

  In this embodiment, the music selection flag is not reset until the determination operation is performed, but a predetermined period after the music selection flag is set or after the selection operation is last performed. May be determined as the music corresponding to the music image retained and displayed in the selection area 98 when the predetermined period has elapsed, the music selection screen may be switched to the menu screen, and the music selection flag may be reset. In addition, although the determination operation returns to the menu screen from the music selection screen, a “return” button is provided on the music selection screen, the “return” button is selected, and the push button 31B is pressed. The music selection flag may be reset and the menu screen may be returned.

[Examples where the scrolling speed varies depending on the player's operating period]
Next, an example will be described in which the speed of the scroll display of the music image on the music selection screen varies depending on the length of the operation period by the player. As for the scroll display of the music image on the music selection screen as described above, the music image is scroll-displayed at a constant speed (first speed V1 or second speed V2) regardless of the period during which the stick controller 31A is tilted. showed that. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and control for varying the scroll display speed of the music image may be executed according to the length of the period during which the stick controller 31A is tilted.

  For example, control may be performed to increase the speed of the scroll display of the music image as the period during which the stick controller 31A is tilted becomes longer. On the other hand, the reverse control may be performed.

  Thus, the interest of the game can be improved by changing the scroll speed of the music image on the music selection screen depending on the operation period of the player.

[Modification of music selection control]
Next, a modified example of the music selection control described above will be described.

  (1) The music selection control described with reference to FIGS. 38 and 39 is not limited to music selection, and may be used to select other effects such as selection of a character image used for effects. For example, what kind of control can be used as an effect selection screen so that a selectable image that can specify a selectable effect and a non-selectable image that can still specify an unselectable effect can be displayed together? You may perform control which makes an effect target.

  (2) The music selection screen shown in FIG. 38 (A) may be displayed at any timing, such as when a customer waiting demonstration is displayed, when a big game state is started, or when a probability change state is started.

  (3) An example in which the selectable music image 96 and the non-selectable music image 97 shown in FIG. 38A are displayed separately by color image and gray image is shown. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the selectable music image 96 and the non-selectable music image 97 are distinguished by a high luminance image and a low luminance image, by a high density image and a low density image, or by a large icon image. As long as the display can specify a selectable effect and an unselectable effect, such as a distinction between a small icon image and a small icon image, any display may be used.

  (4) The specific music addition condition has been described as an example in which the integrated value of the number of times of variable display has reached a predetermined number. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the following conditions may be used as specific music addition conditions. A condition may be that the number of consecutive big hits (so-called consecutive resort times) has reached a predetermined number. In a pachinko gaming machine that can use RTC (real-time clock) timing information, it may be conditional on the elapse of a predetermined period (for example, every 3 hours). It may be a condition that a predetermined time (for example, every hour) is reached. When the player performs management of the game history by communicating with an external server via the Internet with a mobile terminal or the like, it may be a condition that the player has acquired a specific content based on the game history. When the player performs management of the game history by communicating with an external server via the Internet with a portable terminal or the like, it may be a condition that a specific game level is given to the player based on the game history.

  (5) In FIG. 38B, the scroll display between the selectable music image 96 and the non-selectable music image 97, such as between the first music image and the sixth music image, is the first speed. V1 may be set as the scroll speed.

  (6) The control for changing the scroll display speed based on the relationship between the music images as described in FIG. 38 may not be executed. Further, when the non-selectable music image 97 is displayed on the selection area 98 in the scroll display, the display may be performed without passing through the display so as to stay temporarily.

  (7) In FIGS. 38A and 38B, an example in which a part of the number of music images of a plurality of types of music images can be displayed at a time is shown. A total number of music images may be displayed at a time, and music may be selected. That is, all the music images of a plurality of types of music images may be displayed as a list.

  (8) As shown in FIG. 38A, the distance between music images may be equal. Further, the distance between the music images (distance on the display) may be different. For example, the distance between the selectable music images 96 may be different from the distance between the non-selectable music images 97. For example, the distance between the selectable music images 96 may be longer than the distance between the non-selectable music images 97.

  (9) The music image selection switching display shown in FIG. 38A is not limited to scroll display, and other selection switching display such as switching display for switching music images on the spot on the selection area 98 may be executed. Good.

  (10) In the music selection screen shown in FIG. 38A, an example is shown in which music is not played back unless a selection decision operation based on the operation of the push button 31B by the player is performed. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and a selection determination operation based on the operation of the push button 31B by the player is not performed, but a part of the music (for example, music) is displayed in a state where the selectable image 96 is displayed on the selection area 98. Or the like) may be reproduced. However, in a state where the non-selectable image 97 is displayed on the selection area 98, a part of the music is not reproduced. In this way, by playing a part of the music before the selection of the music, the player's interest in playing the music can be attracted and the interest of the game can be improved.

  (11) Although the selection decision operation based on the operation of the push button 31B by the player is not performed, a selectable image 96 is displayed on the selection area 98, and a part of the music (for example, a chorus part of the music) In addition, a part of the music (for example, a chorus part of the music) may be played even when the non-selectable image 97 is displayed on the selection area 98. In this way, it is possible to enhance the interest of the game by attracting the player's interest in the music that cannot be reproduced.

  (12) The sensor of the stick controller 31 </ b> A and the sensor of the push button 31 </ b> B have been described as an example of detection means that can detect the player's action when the music selection screen is displayed. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and other detection means such as a sensor that detects the operation of the jog dial and a touch sensor that detects the operation of the touch panel may be used. In addition, as a means capable of detecting the player's movement, a detection means capable of directly detecting the player's movement such as an infrared sensor and a motion sensor may be used without using the operation means. .

[Other control examples related to music image display]
In addition, about the display of a music selection screen, you may perform display control which is demonstrated below. The music that can be replayed during the game is a music that can be sold to the general public, and among the 4th to 6th music images corresponding to the 4th to 6th music that are the non-selectable images 97, the 6th music is the latest before release. In the case of music, the sixth music image corresponding to the sixth music is not displayed until the release date of the sixth music, and the release date has passed as a predetermined condition, and the predetermined condition is satisfied. Six music images may be displayed as the non-selectable image 97. The sixth music image may be changed to the selectable image 96 based on the establishment of the specific condition, with a specific condition that one week has passed since the release date of the sixth music. In this case, a time that is a predetermined condition for displaying the sixth music image may be displayed in a portion of the music selection screen where the sixth music image is displayed, such as “Month, Day, Day Open”. In addition, after displaying the sixth music image as the non-selectable image 97, the time that is the specific condition to be changed to the selectable image 96 may be displayed as “selection of ○ month ○ day”. When the sixth music image is displayed or changed to the selectable image 96, the music currently selected (the music image displayed first in the selection area 98 by default display or the like) is the first music. Even if it is an image, the music image that is retained and displayed in the selection area 98 at the timing when the music selection image is displayed may be the sixth music image. This makes it possible for the player to be aware that there is music that can be newly selected or music that can be selected.

  Further, the selectable music image may be changed to the non-selectable image 97. For example, the first music image corresponding to the first music may not be selected after Δ month Δ day after one year has passed since the music was released. Then, from the two weeks before △ month △ day, together with the display of the first music image, a time that is a condition that makes it impossible to select such as “△ month △ day seal” may be displayed. Then, the first music image may be changed to the non-selectable image 97 when Δ month Δ day has passed, or the first music image may not be displayed.

  In addition, the above-described predetermined condition or specific condition may be that a predetermined number of games, a bonus winning number, or a payout number (hereinafter, these numbers are also collectively referred to as a game history) is exceeded. In this case, the player can manage the game history by communicating with an external server via the Internet with a portable terminal or the like, and by inputting a password for managing the game history, The gaming history of the gaming machine may be rewritten to the gaming history of the player. Thereby, you may control so that a music can be selected based on a player's game history. For example, the music images displayed based on the game history before inputting the password are the first music image that is the selectable image 96 and the second music image that is the non-selectable image 97, and the game If the music images displayed based on the player's game history are the selectable image 96, the first to third music images, and the fourth to sixth music images that are the non-selectable images 97, The type of the music image displayed by input and the types of the selectable image 96 and the non-selectable image 97 among the displayed music images are changed.

  Moreover, in this Embodiment, although it was set as the image in which the music image currently retained and displayed in the selection area | region 98 is selected, all the 1st-6th music images are displayed on a music selection screen, for example, You may enable it to select a music piece using the icon etc. which can recognize which music image is selected. Further, when the selectable image 96 is changed to the unselectable image 97, the position of an icon or the like may be aligned with the selectable image 96. For example, when the sixth music image is changed from the non-selectable image 97 to the selectable image 96, the currently selected music (a music indicated by an icon or the like by default display or the like) is the first music image. Alternatively, the music image indicated by the icon at the timing when the music selection image is displayed may be the sixth music image.

  Another example of control related to the display of the music image described above has the following configuration. A display device capable of displaying an image relating to a game, an operation means operable by the player, and a selection screen display control means for performing control for displaying a selection screen for allowing the player to select an image to be displayed on the display device Selection means for selecting an item included in the selection screen by an operation by the operation means; and an image display control means for performing control to display an image based on the item selected by the operation means on the display device. The selection screen display control means may be a gaming machine that controls to increase the selectable items when a predetermined condition is satisfied.

  Note that the selection screen display control unit may select an item that has not been selected until the predetermined condition is satisfied after the predetermined condition is satisfied.

  The selection screen display control means further controls to increase the selectable items when the time measured by the time measuring means has passed a predetermined date and time, further comprising time measuring means capable of measuring the actual time. Also good.

  The selection screen display control means further includes items that can be selected when the operation input is performed by the input means. You may control to increase.

  In addition, the display unit includes a display unit that displays predetermined content, and a selection unit that allows a player to select content to be executed from a plurality of contents displayed on the display unit. It may be a gaming machine that displays contents that can be selected by the player and contents that cannot be selected yet.

  The display means may display a condition that allows the contents that cannot be selected yet to be selected.

  The display means may further display contents that cannot be selected yet other than the contents that cannot be selected yet under predetermined conditions.

  In addition, when the player selects contents to be executed by the selection means, the player further includes position specifying means for indicating the selection position, and the position specifying means can newly select the contents that cannot be selected yet. In this case, the selection position may be matched with the newly selected content.

  The display means may display the newly selectable content at the top when the content that has not yet been selected can be newly selected.

  The display means may display a condition that the content that can be selected by the player by the selection means can no longer be selected.

  In addition, it further has a timing means for timing the date and time, and the display means changes and displays the contents that can be selected by the player by the selection means and the contents that cannot be selected yet, depending on the date and time counted by the timing means. May be.

(Configuration that can be derived from the above embodiments and modifications)
The configurations disclosed in this specification (the configurations of the above-described embodiments and modifications are included in the following configurations as appropriate) are listed below. The present invention is not limited to the following description. Note that the specific configurations, application examples, and modification examples described below can also be applied to the above-described embodiments and modification examples.

(Configuration 1)
A gaming machine (for example, pachinko gaming machine 1 or the like) that can change the production setting (for example, production setting during variable display) by the player's action,
When changing the production settings, a plurality of production setting categories each including one or more production settings (for example, variable display production settings, etc.) (for example, setting categories such as “background customization”, “game characteristics customization”, etc.) Display means for displaying a menu screen for presenting (for example, the parent menu screen of FIG. 24C or FIG. 32),
It is configured to be able to initialize the effect setting for each of the plurality of effect setting categories by the player's action (for example, selection confirmation of “RESET” in the child menu screens of FIGS. 25 to 27 and the parent menu screen of FIG. 32). Such as “SET1” or “RESET2”)
The menu screen is an initialization item that collectively initializes the effect settings included in each of the plurality of effect setting categories when selected by the player's action (for example, “ RESET ”and“ ALL RESET ”on the parent menu screen of FIG. 32) are presented together with the plurality of effect setting categories (see, for example, the parent menu screen of FIG. 24C and FIG. 32).
The display means has an effect selection screen (such as a music selection screen in FIG. 38) on which an effect to be executed can be selected from a plurality of types of effects (such as a reproduction effect of a plurality of types of music in FIG. 38) in the effect setting category. Including an effect selection screen display means (image display device 5 or the like) capable of displaying
The effect selection screen includes selectable images (selectable music images 96, etc. in FIG. 38) that can specify selectable effects (first music to third music, etc. in FIG. 38) and effects that cannot be selected yet ( 38 can be displayed together with a non-selectable image (such as the non-selectable music image 97 of FIG. 38) that can identify the fourth music to the sixth music of FIG. 38 (FIG. 38, etc.).

  According to this configuration, it is possible to reduce the burden on the player regarding initialization. Further, as shown in FIG. 38 (A), in the music selection screen, a selectable music image 96 and a non-selectable music image 97 can be displayed together, so that a player related to the effect of reproducing the music is displayed. Can increase the interest of the game and improve the interest of the game.

  The configuration for detecting the player's movement is not limited to the stick controller 31A, the push button 31B, and the volume button 31C. For example, a cross button that can be operated in the vertical and horizontal directions, or a jog dial that can be rotated, for example. There may be a thing which can perform contact operation and press operation like a touch panel. In addition, a cross button, a jog dial, a touch panel, etc. may be arranged at a predetermined location of the gaming machine. Further, for example, a sensor that can detect an arbitrary operation not limited to an instruction input action by a player, such as an infrared sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, a CCD sensor, or a CMOS sensor may be used. The result of photographing a subject such as a player's hand using a predetermined camera may be analyzed (video motion capture) so that an arbitrary operation can be detected as a predetermined operation. That is, the configuration for detecting the motion by the player may be any configuration that can detect the motion of the arbitrary object mechanically, electrically, or electromagnetically.

  The production setting may be a production-related setting, and there is a production execution frequency (“high” / “low”, “high” / “medium” / “low”). Good), the type of effect to be executed (in the first setting, the reach effect in which the character A appears is executed, in the second setting, the reach effect in which the character B appears), the effect mode, Expectation of big hit when the same performance is executed (multiple stages such as “high” / “low”, “high” / “medium” / “low” may be sufficient)). The configuration (configuration for realizing initialization and change) of the variable display effect setting in the embodiment can be applied to various effect settings. The effect setting may include one in which the current effect setting status (setting status) such as volume and brightness is displayed on the screen.

  As the effect setting, in the above-described embodiment, the effect setting of the effect during the variable display is exemplified, but the effect setting may be a setting related to the effect or demonstration display executed during the big hit. When the effect setting category included in the effect setting category on the menu screen can be changed on the screen displaying the effect setting category (such as “background customization” in FIG. 32), the effect setting category is selected. It may be possible to perform on other screens that transition to (FIGS. 25 to 27, etc.). The initialization of the effect setting for each of the plurality of effect setting categories may be executed when an item displayed on the same screen as the initialization item is selected and confirmed (“RESET 1” in FIG. 32). Such).

  Although the pachinko gaming machine 1 has been described in the embodiments and modifications, it may be applied to a slot machine. For example, the present invention can be appropriately applied to a slot machine that displays a demonstration.

(Configuration 2)
The effect selection screen displays a part of the non-selectable image as the non-selectable image (for example, a part of the non-selectable image 97 indicated by diagonal lines in FIG. 38A is displayed as a gray image). You may do it.

  According to this configuration, as shown in FIG. 38 (A), with respect to the unselectable music image 97, a part of the image is stopped and displayed. Can improve the interest of

(Configuration 3)
The production selection screen is
According to the player's action (selection switching operation by left / right operation of the stick controller 31A, etc.), a plurality of the selectable images and the non-selection images are arranged in a predetermined order (such as the circulation order of the music images shown in FIG. 38B). Possible images (such as the music image shown in FIG. 38B) can be scroll-displayed (such as the scroll display shown in the arrow direction in FIG. 38A),
An effect to be executed is specified (corresponding to the music to be reproduced) by displaying the selectable image in a predetermined display area (selection area 98 in FIG. 38). Specify the music image in the center of the screen)
The effect selection screen display means includes
An image corresponding to the next order (normal order) of the selectable images displayed and staying in a predetermined display area is the selectable image (for example, the selectable image 96 in FIG. 38A). When the second music image corresponding to the second music in the next circulation order is the selectable image 96 or the like, the selection corresponding to the next order is performed by scroll display corresponding to one operation by the player. In the low-speed scroll mode (FIG. 38 (E)) in which the scroll display is executed and the next selectable music image 96 is retained and displayed in the selection region 98 by S725 and S726 in FIG. Scroll display etc.)
The image corresponding to the next order (reverse order) of the selectable images that are staying displayed in the predetermined display area is the non-selectable image (for example, the next circulation order of the first music in FIG. 38A). When the sixth music image corresponding to the sixth music is a non-selectable image 97 or the like), the next display in the predetermined order is performed in the predetermined display area by scroll display corresponding to one operation by the player. After the non-selectable images are displayed, the selectable images corresponding to the next and subsequent orders of the non-selectable images in the next order are displayed in the predetermined display area by scroll display, regardless of the player's action. (In S723 and S724 in FIG. 39, the scroll display is executed to display the non-selectable music image 97 while displaying it temporarily, and finally, after the next circulation order is displayed. Like the scroll display in the high speed scroll mode (FIG. 38 (E)) staying displaying selectable music image 96.), It may be.

  According to such a configuration, as shown in FIG. 38E, the non-selectable music image 97 is displayed once in the selection area 98, so that the player's interest in the production increases. be able to. In addition, since the music corresponding to the unselectable music image 97 cannot be selected, it is not left displayed, so that the player can misunderstand that the music can be selected.

(Configuration 4)
In the effect selection screen, the scroll speed in the scroll display is between the selectable images (such as the first speed V1 in FIG. 38B) and between the non-selectable images (the first in FIG. 38B). 2 speed V2 etc.) (the scroll speed ratio “V1 <V2” etc. in FIG. 38C).

  According to such a configuration, as shown in FIG. 38C, with regard to scroll display on the music selection screen, the scroll speed differs between selectable music images and between non-selectable music images. As a result, the effect pattern of the effect using the scroll display becomes rich in change, and the interest of the game can be improved.

(Configuration 5)
In the effect selection screen, the scroll speed in the scroll display is higher between the non-selectable images (speed V2 in FIG. 38B) than between the selectable images (such as the speed V1 in FIG. 38B). Etc.) may be higher (the scroll speed ratio “V1 <V2”, etc. in FIG. 38C).

  According to such a configuration, as shown in FIG. 38C, the second speed V2 between the non-selectable music images is the first between the selectable music images as to the crawl display speed. The speed is higher than the speed V1. This makes it possible to reduce the period during which the non-selectable music image 97 is displayed, thereby improving the interest of the game.

(Configuration 6)
The effect selection screen may be configured such that the scroll speed in the scroll display is different depending on the player's operation period (an example in which the scroll speed is different depending on the player's operation period).

  According to such a configuration, as shown in [an example in which the scrolling speed varies depending on the player's operation period], the scrolling speed of the music image on the music selection screen varies depending on the player's operation period. Can be improved.

(Configuration 7)
The production settings that can be changed by the player's action are the first production settings that are changed when the menu screen is displayed (for example, the variable display production settings), and whether or not the menu screen is displayed. A second production setting that can be changed regardless of the volume setting (for example, volume setting),
You may do it.

  According to this configuration, the second effect setting can be easily changed.

The first effect setting and the second effect setting may be any of the variable display effect setting, the setting related to the effect or demonstration display executed during the big hit, the brightness setting, the volume setting, etc.
(The first effect setting and the second effect setting may be different types).

(Configuration 8)
When the initialization item is selected, the first effect setting is initialized and the second effect setting is not initialized (for example, see FIG. 17).
You may do it.

  According to this configuration, it is possible to prevent the initialization up to the second performance setting.

  As another configuration, when “RESET” is selected and confirmed on the parent menu screen, the volume may be initialized. That is, when the initialization item is selected, both the first effect setting and the second effect setting may be initialized. As a result, when the player changes, the initial setting of the volume and the like is difficult to understand, so that the burden on the player regarding initialization can be reduced.

(Configuration 9)
The at least one production setting category includes production settings relating to the execution frequency of production (for example, “Premier Up” ON setting, etc.),
You may do it.

  According to this structure, an effect is performed with the frequency according to a player's liking, and the interest of a game can be improved.

  In addition to the premiere effect, various effects such as reach effect, notice effect, pre-reading notice (such as pre-reading hold notice effect that changes the hold display image), effects on movable members, effects during a big hit, etc. It may be a directing.

(Configuration 10)
When changing the production setting, the setting status of the production setting (for example, the volume image VL) can be displayed.
In the first state (for example, a state where the performance of super reach or big hit is not executed), the setting status is displayed in a visible manner regardless of the player's action,
In a second state (for example, a state in which an effect during a super reach or a big hit is executed) that is different from the first state and executes a specific effect (for example, an effect in a super reach or a big hit). The setting status is made difficult or invisible (for example, see FIGS. 28 and 35), and the setting status is determined based on the player's action until a predetermined condition (for example, elapse of a predetermined period) is satisfied. Can be displayed (see, for example, FIG. 29).
You may do it.

  According to this configuration, it is possible to display the setting state of the effect setting according to the player's request while suppressing a decrease in the effect of the specific effect, and to improve the interest of the game.

  The effect setting in which the setting status is displayed may be an effect setting that can be changed at any time, such as a volume, or an effect setting that can be changed via a menu screen or the like (such as the above-described variable display effect setting).

  The first state is a state other than during the super reach production, but may be in a state before the super reach execution (before the start) or after the super reach execution (after the end). In addition, the first state may be at least one of a period before execution of super reach in one change (before start) or a period after execution of super reach in one change (after completion). The 2nd state is good also as a state of the period which performs super reach in one change.

  The second state may be a special state that tends to be an advantageous state such as a big hit gaming state. This special state is a probability change state or a short time state. Further, the special state is a state in which the game ball is not frequently won (or may be passed or entered) in the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B, and is frequently changed from the first mode to the second mode that is easy to win. There may be.

  For example, in the slot machine, the first state is a gaming state other than a continuous effect performed over a plurality of games, or a state where a demonstration display or the like is not being displayed, and a specific effect (for example, a continuous effect) Etc.) may be set to a second state (for example, a gaming state during a continuous production).

  The pachinko machine 1 may have a special effect such as a congratulatory effect (character introduction), a promotion effect, a V prize notification, etc. in the pachinko machine 1, and an AT notification (assist time notification), an ART notification (assist replay time) in the slot machine. Notification), 1G continuous notification of big hits (1 game continuous notification), continuous notification of big hits, and the like.

  The “state” in the “state different from the first state” includes “a state in which variable display is executed”, “a state in which variable display is not executed”, and “a part of the period in variable display”. .

  Moreover, you may make it give priority to the detection control of a player's operation | movement performed by predetermined | prescribed production | presentation (example: music selection in a big hit) over the detection control of setting condition. In other words, during music selection, it may be impossible to change production settings (for example, status display such as volume adjustment, brightness adjustment, and mode switching). In particular, this is effective when an operation for music selection and an operation for changing production settings are performed by the same operation means (for example, a cross button).

(Configuration 11)
The specific effect indicates an advantageous state advantageous to the player (for example, a super-reach effect for a pachinko machine, a continuous effect for a slot machine, etc.) or an effect during the advantageous state (for example, a pachinko game) On machines, blessing effects (character introduction), promotion effects, V prize notifications, etc. on slot machines, AT notification (assist time notification), ART notification (assist replay time notification), jackpot 1G continuous notification (single game continuous notification) ), Continuous notification of big hits, etc.).

  According to said structure, the setting status of production setting can be displayed according to a player's request, suppressing the fall of the production effect of a specific production, and the interest property of a game can be improved.

(Configuration 12)
The setting status is a position that is not covered by the effect identification information at the time of stoppage of variable display (variable display) (during display display of the display result) of the display identification information (for example, decorative symbols) indicating the game result (for example). (For example, as shown in FIG. 28, the volume status display image VL may be displayed at a position that does not cover the decorative pattern at the time when the fluctuation is stopped).

  According to the above configuration, it is possible to change the effect setting while preventing the visual recognition of the game result.

  As another configuration, as shown in FIG. 37, the setting status is displayed for a predetermined period only when there is a player's action to change the effect setting (see FIGS. 37A to 37C). In FIG. 37, the volume is represented by a number.) When there is a derivation display of the display result of the variable display of the effect identification information within the predetermined period, the displayed setting status is within the predetermined period. You may make it erase | eliminate (FIG. 37 (D)-(E)). Such a configuration is particularly effective when the displayed setting situation is covered (overlapped) with the decoration identification information as the display result derived as shown in FIG. Thereby, the visibility of the display result to be derived and displayed can be ensured.

(Configuration 13)
The predetermined condition may be that a predetermined period elapses from detection of a player's action (for example, detection of an operation of the volume button 31C) or display start of the setting status.

  According to said structure, the setting status of production setting can be displayed according to a player's request, suppressing the fall of the production effect of a specific production, and the interest of a game can be improved.

(Configuration 14)
The first state is a state of at least one of a period before execution of the specific effect in the variable effect and a period after the execution.
The second state may be a state of a period in which the specific effect in the variable effect is executed.

  According to said structure, the setting status of production setting can be displayed according to a player's request, suppressing the fall of the production effect of a specific production, and the interest property of a game can be improved.

(Configuration 15)
The setting status in the second state may be displayed in the same manner as the setting status display mode in the first state (for example, FIG. 29).

  According to said structure, the display of the setting condition in a 2nd state is easy to understand.

(Configuration 16)
When the setting status based on the player's action is displayed before the transition from the first state to the second state, and when the predetermined condition is not satisfied when the transition from the first state to the second state occurs The display of the setting status may be continued until a predetermined period of time elapses after the detection of the player's action or the transition (for example, FIGS. 31A and 31B).

  According to said structure, the setting status of production setting can be displayed according to a player's request, suppressing the fall of the production effect of a specific production, and the interest property of a game can be improved.

(Configuration 17)
When the setting state based on the player's action is displayed before the transition from the second state to the first state, and when the predetermined condition is not satisfied when the state transitions from the second state to the first state The display of the setting status may be continued after the transition to the first state (for example, FIG. 31C).

  According to said structure, the setting status of production setting can be displayed according to a player's request, suppressing the fall of the production effect of a specific production, and the interest of a game can be improved.

(Configuration 18)
You may make it provide the alerting | reporting means to alert | report that the change of the said production | presentation setting is always possible.

  According to said structure, the player can recognize that production setting is always possible.

(Configuration 19)
The second state may be an advantageous state that is advantageous to the player (for example, a big hit gaming state in a pachinko gaming machine, a gaming state in continuous production in a slot machine, etc.).

  According to the above configuration, the setting state of the effect setting according to the player's request while suppressing the deterioration of the effect of the specific effect (for example, the round effect during the big hit, the blessing effect during the big hit, the continuous effect, etc.) Can be displayed, and the fun of the game can be improved.

(Configuration 20)
When the display result of the variable display (variable display) becomes a specific result, it can be controlled to an advantageous state advantageous to the player,
The second state may be a special state that is likely to become the advantageous state (for example, a probability variation state or a time-short state).

  According to the above configuration, a specific effect (for example, a reach effect (for example, a super reach effect, etc.) in a special state (for example, a promiscuous state or a short time state) that is likely to be in an advantageous state (for example, a big hit game state)). It is possible to display the setting status of the production setting according to the player's request while suppressing the decrease in the effect, and to improve the interest of the game.

(Other)
In the above-described embodiment, the “ratio” and “probability” at which various decisions are made may be 0% (not decided) or 100% (not necessarily decided), such as 70:30, for example. So that the possibility of at least one of the determination results is 0% (not determined) or 100% (always determined) It may be set. For example, in the case of making various decisions, the ratio of the determination result of any one of the plurality of determination results is higher than the ratio of the determination result of other determination results. It may be included to be 100%, or it may be included that the ratio of other determination results is 0%. When the ratio of the determination result of 1 is 100%, the ratio of the other determination result is 0%. Further, when the ratio as the other determination result is 0%, if the ratio as the determination result of 1 is a predetermined ratio other than 100% and not 0%, the ratio as the determination result of 1 is the other determination result. It will be higher than the ratio.

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Pachinko machine, 2 Game board, 5 Image display device, 5L, 5C, 5R Decoration symbol display area, 5HR 1st hold display part, 5HL 2nd hold display part, 11 Main board, 12 Production control board, 100 Game control Microcomputer, 120 effect control CPU, 123 display control unit, 31A stick controller, 31B push button, 31C volume button, IL luminance status display image, VL volume image.

Claims (1)

A gaming machine in which the production setting can be changed by the player's action,
When changing the production settings, the display means for displaying a menu screen presenting a plurality of production setting categories each including one or more production settings,
It is configured to be able to initialize the production setting for each of the plurality of production setting categories by the player's action,
The menu screen presents, together with the plurality of effect setting categories, initialization items that collectively initialize the effect settings included in each of the plurality of effect setting categories when selected by a player's action,
The display means includes an effect selection screen display means capable of displaying an effect selection screen capable of selecting an effect to be executed from among a plurality of types of effects in the effect setting category,
The effect selection screen can display a selectable image that can specify a selectable effect and an unselectable image that can specify an effect that cannot be selected yet.