JP2017195926A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine capable of enhancing interest.SOLUTION: During execution of a predetermined performance (for example, a normal performance, such as a varying performance) for displaying a predetermined image (for example, a normal performance image, such as a performance pattern and a background), a specific image performance (for example, a pseudo light guide plate image), which displays a specific image (for example, a pseudo light guide plate image) superposed at a front side (for example, a pseudo light guide plate performance display layer as a layer having display priority higher than a normal display layer for displaying the normal performance image) of the predetermined image, is set to be executable in a state in which visibility of the predetermined image is decreased (for example, a state in which the predetermined image is masked). Thus, interest can be enhanced.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 41

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko machine or a slot machine capable of playing a game.

  As a gaming machine, a game ball, which is a game medium, is launched into a game area by a launching device, and when a game ball wins a prize area such as a prize opening provided in the game area, a predetermined number of prize balls are paid out to the player. There is something to be done. Further, a variable display area capable of variably displaying the identification information (also referred to as “fluctuation”) is provided, and when the display result of the variable display of the identification information in the variable display area becomes the specific display result, the game state (game There is a machine configured to give a predetermined game value to a player by changing the state of the machine (specifically, the state where the gaming machine is controlled) (so-called pachinko machine).

  In addition, after setting a predetermined number of bets for one game on a predetermined game medium, the player starts variable display of identification information by the variable display area by operating the start lever, and the player By operating a stop button provided corresponding to the display area, the variable display of the identification information is stopped within the range of the maximum delay time determined in advance from the operation timing, and the variable display of all the variable display areas is displayed. In accordance with the display result derived when the game is stopped, a winning occurs, a predetermined game medium determined in advance according to the winning is paid out, and when a specific winning occurs, a player is given a predetermined gaming value as a gaming state. There is one that is configured to be in a state to be given to (so-called slot machine).

  The game value means that a prize ball is paid out or that the state of a variable winning ball device provided in a gaming area of a gaming machine is advantageous for a player who is likely to win a ball, or advantageous for a player. For example, to generate a right to enter a state, or to enter a state in which a condition for winning a prize ball is easily established.

  In a pachinko machine, a specific display mode determined in advance is derived and displayed as a display result of variable display of effect symbols (identification information) that starts in the variable display area based on the winning of the game ball at the start winning opening. If this happens, a “big hit” will occur. The derived display is to finally stop and display a symbol (final stop symbol). When the big hit occurs, for example, the big winning opening is opened a predetermined number of times, and the game shifts to a big hit gaming state where the hit ball is easy to win. And in each open period, if there is a prize for a predetermined number (for example, 10) of the big prize opening, the big prize opening is closed. And the number of times of opening the special winning opening is fixed to a predetermined number (for example, 15 rounds). An opening time (for example, 29 seconds) is determined for each opening, and even if the number of winnings does not reach a predetermined number, the big winning opening is closed when the opening time elapses. Hereinafter, the opening period of each special winning opening may be referred to as a round. A game in a round may be referred to as a round game.

  In the variable display area, the symbols other than the symbol that becomes the final stop symbol (for example, the middle symbol in the left middle right symbol) continue for a predetermined period of time and stop and shake in a state that matches the specific display result. It can be a big hit before the final result is displayed because it is moving, scaling, or deforming, or multiple symbols change synchronously with the same symbol, or the position of the displayed symbol is switched. An effect performed in a state where the sex is continued (hereinafter, these states are referred to as reach states) is referred to as reach effect. Further, the reach state and its state are referred to as a reach mode. Furthermore, variable display including reach production is called reach variable display. Then, when the display result of the symbol variably displayed in the variable display area is not a specific display result, it becomes “out of” and the variability display state ends. A player plays a game while enjoying how to generate a big hit.

  Some of these gaming machines include a light guide plate on the front surface (player side) of the effect display device and execute an effect by the light guide plate (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

JP 2014-14559 A (FIGS. 22 and 62)

  However, in the gaming machine described above, since the display pattern of the light guide plate is fixed, the production is restricted and the entertainment is insufficient.

  Then, an object of this invention is to provide the gaming machine which can improve interest.

  (Means 1) The gaming machine according to the present invention is a gaming machine capable of playing a game, and performs an effect execution means capable of executing an effect related to the game (for example, step S705 in the effect control microcomputer 100 is executed). The effect execution means includes a visual representation of the predetermined image during execution of a predetermined effect (for example, a normal effect such as a changing effect) that displays a predetermined image (for example, a normal effect image such as an effect symbol or a background). The normal display layer that displays the specific image (for example, the pseudo light guide plate image) in front of the predetermined image (for example, the normal effect image, for example) in a state where the performance is reduced (for example, the state in which steps S3703 and S3708 are executed) It is possible to execute a specific image effect (for example, a pseudo light guide plate effect) that is superimposed on a display layer for display of a pseudo light guide plate effect that is a higher display priority than the display layer. (For example, the production control microcomputer 100 can execute steps S3704 and S3709), and can display identification information (for example, the fourth symbol, the small symbol) on the front side of the specific image. And According to such a configuration, interest can be improved.

  (Means 2) In the means 1, the effect execution means puts the mask on the predetermined image to reduce the visibility of the predetermined image (for example, the effect control microcomputer 100 performs steps S3703 and S3708). It is also possible to execute this. According to such a configuration, the effect of producing the specific image effect can be improved.

  (Means 3) In the means 1 or 2, the effect executing means can execute a specific image effect that is displayed by switching the opacity of the specific image a plurality of times (for example, the effect control microcomputer 100 uses the data pattern A By using the image data, it is possible to execute a pseudo light guide plate effect in which the opacity is switched a plurality of times in one layer of the frame 5 to the frame 15. Also, by using the image data of the data pattern C, the frame 24 to the frame 35 It is possible to execute a pseudo light guide plate effect in which the opacity is switched a plurality of times in one layer, frame 50 to frame 75. Also, by using image data of the data pattern D, one layer, frame 25 from frame 22 to frame 25 29 to 1 and 2 layers of frame 35, frame 38 to 1 layer of frame 43 Layer, frame 1 four layers of 48 to frame 53, opacity in one layer 5 layer frame 60 frame 68 is capable of executing multiple switches pseudo light guide plate effect) it may be. According to such a configuration, the effect of producing the specific image effect can be improved.

  (Means 4) In any one of the means 1 to 3, the effect execution means can execute a specific image effect that displays a specific image having a resolution lower than that of the predetermined image (for example, the effect control microcomputer 100 can It is possible to display the effect image of the normal effect having a resolution of 96 ppi (pixel per inch) and the effect image of the pseudo light guide plate effect having a resolution of 48 ppi (see FIG. 41 (B3)). Also good. According to such a configuration, the effect of producing the specific image effect can be improved.

  (Means 5) In any one of the means 1 to 4, the effect execution means can execute a specific image effect in which a plurality of superimposed images are displayed as a specific image (for example, the effect control microcomputer 100 includes data By using the image data of patterns A to D, it is possible to execute a pseudo light guide plate effect that displays a pseudo light guide plate image in a plurality of layers (base and 1 layer to 5 layers) having different display priorities) Also good. According to such a configuration, the effect of producing the specific image effect can be improved.

  (Means 6) In any one of the means 1 to 5, the effect execution means can execute the specific image effect at a plurality of timings (for example, the effect control microcomputer 100 uses the first pseudo light guide plate effect execution timing). The pseudo light guide plate effect may be executed at T1 and the second pseudo light guide plate effect execution timing T2. According to such a configuration, the effect of producing the specific image effect can be improved.

  (Means 7) In any one of the means 1 to 6, the effect executing means can execute the specific image effect with different effect patterns based on the display color of the specific image (for example, the effect control microcomputer 100 has the effect control microcomputer 100). In steps S2804 and S2811, the effect patterns (PT1 to PT4) can be determined based on the color tone (blue, red, rainbow). According to such a configuration, the effect of producing the specific image effect can be improved.

  (Means 8) In any one of the means 1 to 7, an effect adjustment (for example, volume adjustment, brightness adjustment, etc.) relating to a game according to a player's action (for example, operation of the stick controller 122, predetermined action of the player, etc.) Mode switching), and the adjustment status of the production adjustment (for example, the volume adjustment status, the brightness adjustment status, the mode switching status, etc.) can be displayed when the production adjustment is performed. For example, in a pachinko machine, it is in a gaming state other than in the super reach effect, or in a state waiting for a customer and not displaying an error, and in a slot machine in a game state other than in the continuous effect or in a customer waiting state. In an error display state or the like, the adjustment status is displayed in a visible manner regardless of the player's action (for example, the production control microcomputer 100). The volume adjustment status is displayed on the effect display device 9 in accordance with the execution of the volume status display process (see FIG. 46), etc.), and is in a state different from the first state and a specific effect (for example, a supermarket in a pachinko game machine). In the second state (for example, a game state during a super reach effect on a pachinko machine, a game state during a continuous effect on a slot machine, etc.) in which a reach effect, a continuous effect on a slot machine, etc. It is impossible to visually recognize (for example, the volume adjustment status is not displayed on the effect display device 9 in accordance with the execution of the processing such as step S614 by the effect control microcomputer 100), and a predetermined condition is established based on the player's action. (For example, based on the operation of the stick controller 122, etc. Situation may be only such as is displayed) that a predetermined time period to the effect display device 9. According to such a configuration, it is possible to display the adjustment status of the effect adjustment according to the player's request while suppressing a decrease in the effect of the specific effect, and it is possible to improve the interest of the game.

  (Means 9) In any one of the means 1 to 8, the detection means for detecting the occurrence of an abnormality (for example, an abnormal winning in the gaming control microcomputer 560 of the modified example 1 (for example, a big winning opening when the big hit is not being made) A portion for detecting abnormal magnetism or abnormal radio waves), and the effect execution means displays an abnormality notification image on the front side of the specific image during execution of the specific image effect. (For example, the production control microcomputer 100 of the first modification may display an abnormality notification indicating that an abnormality has occurred on the special display layer of the production display device 9). According to such a configuration, the effect of producing the specific image effect can be improved.

  (Means 10) In any one of the means 1 to 9, there is provided launching means (for example, a hitting ball launching device) capable of launching a game medium (for example, a game ball) toward the game area, and the effect execution means is a specific image. A first path in the game area (for example, a path in which game balls launched on substantially the left side of the game area 7 in Modification 2 flow down during the performance, and the first start winning opening 13 is provided. Route) and a second route different from the first route (for example, a route where game balls launched to the substantially right side of the game area 7 in Modification 2 flow down, and are provided with a gate 32 and a second start winning opening 14. An instruction notification image (for example, an instruction notification image) instructing which of the second route) the game medium is to be emitted can be displayed on the front side of the specific image (for example, in a high base state, Second An instruction notification image (so-called right-handed notification image) for instructing the launch of a game ball on the road is displayed on the special display layer of the effect display device 9 or after switching to the low base state, the predetermined route is displayed for the first route. An instruction notification image for instructing the launch of the game ball may be displayed on the special display layer of the effect display device 9). According to such a configuration, the effect of producing the specific image effect can be improved.

It is the front view which looked at the pachinko game machine from the front. It is a block diagram which shows the circuit structural example of a game control board (main board). It is a block diagram showing an example of circuit configuration of an effect control board, a lamp driver board and an audio output board. It is a flowchart which shows the main process which the microcomputer for game control performs. It is a flowchart which shows a 4 ms timer interruption process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the variation pattern of the production | presentation symbol prepared beforehand. It is explanatory drawing which shows each random number. It is explanatory drawing which shows the big hit determination table and the big hit classification determination table. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the content of the presentation control command which the microcomputer for game control transmits. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the content of the presentation control command which the microcomputer for game control transmits. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the program of a special symbol process process. It is a flowchart which shows a starting port switch passage process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of a pending | holding buffer. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol normal process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol normal process. It is a flowchart which shows a fluctuation pattern setting process. It is a flowchart which shows a display result designation | designated command transmission process. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol stop process in a special symbol process process. It is a flowchart which shows the jackpot end process in the special symbol process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the program of a special symbol display control process. It is a flowchart which shows the presentation control main process which CPU for presentation control performs. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of a command reception buffer. It is a flowchart which shows the specific example of a command analysis process. It is a flowchart which shows the specific example of a command analysis process. It is a flowchart which shows production control process processing. It is a flowchart which shows a fluctuation pattern command reception waiting process. It is a flowchart which shows an effect design fluctuation start process. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the stop symbol of the effect symbol in an effect display apparatus. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of a process table. It is explanatory drawing which shows the concept of the layer structure in the effect display apparatus of this Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows a pseudo light guide plate effect setting process. It is explanatory drawing which shows a pseudo | simulation light-guide plate effect execution lottery table, a color tone determination lottery table, an effect pattern determination lottery table, and an effect pattern table. It is explanatory drawing which shows the specific example of the data pattern A and the data pattern B. FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a specific example of a data pattern C. FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of a data pattern D. FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of a data pattern D. FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the process during effect design change in effect control process processing. It is explanatory drawing which shows an image data table. It is a timing chart which shows the execution timing of the pseudo light guide plate effect in this embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the production | presentation symbol fluctuation | variation stop process in an effect control process process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of a display in a light guide plate effect, and the example of a display in a pseudo | simulated light guide plate effect. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of a display in a light guide plate effect, and the example of a display in a pseudo | simulated light guide plate effect. It is explanatory drawing shown about the specific example of a display in a pseudo light guide plate effect. It is explanatory drawing shown about the specific example of a display in a pseudo light guide plate effect. It is explanatory drawing shown about the specific example of a display in a pseudo light guide plate effect. 10 is a flowchart showing a volume status display process in Modification 3. 10 is a flowchart showing a temporary display process in Modification 3. The example of the production | presentation in the case of volume change operation in the super reach fluctuation display in the modification 3 is shown.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. First, the overall configuration of a pachinko gaming machine 1 that is an example of a gaming machine will be described. FIG. 1 is a front view of the pachinko gaming machine 1 as seen from the front.

  The pachinko gaming machine 1 includes an outer frame (not shown) formed in a vertically long rectangular shape, and a game frame attached to the inside of the outer frame so as to be openable and closable. Further, the pachinko gaming machine 1 has a glass door frame 2 formed in a frame shape that is provided in the game frame so as to be opened and closed. The game frame includes a front frame (not shown) that can be opened and closed with respect to the outer frame, a mechanism plate (not shown) to which mechanism parts and the like are attached, and various parts (games to be described later) attached to them. A structure including the board 6).

  On the lower surface of the glass door frame 2 is a hitting ball supply tray (upper plate) 3. Under the hitting ball supply tray 3, there are provided a surplus ball receiving tray 4 for storing game balls that cannot be accommodated in the hitting ball supply tray 3, and a hitting operation handle (operation knob) 5 for firing the hitting ball. A game board 6 is detachably attached to the back surface of the glass door frame 2. The game board 6 is a structure including a plate-like body constituting the game board 6 and various components attached to the plate-like body. In addition, a game area 7 is formed on the front surface of the game board 6 in which a game ball that has been struck can flow down.

  The member that forms the extra ball tray (lower tray) 4 is configured in a stick shape (bar shape), for example, at a predetermined position on the front side of the upper surface of the lower tray main body (for example, the central portion of the lower tray). Is attached to the stick controller 122 that can be tilted in a plurality of directions (front and rear, left and right). It should be noted that the stick controller 122 has a predetermined operation, for example, by performing a push-pull operation with a predetermined operation finger (for example, an index finger) while the player holds the operation rod of the stick controller 122 with an operation hand (for example, the left hand). A trigger button 121 (see FIG. 3) capable of performing an instruction operation is provided, and a trigger sensor 125 (see FIG. 3) for detecting a predetermined instruction operation by a push-pull operation or the like on the trigger button 121 is provided inside the operation rod of the stick controller 122. 3) is built-in. In addition, a tilt direction sensor unit 123 (see FIG. 3) that detects a tilting operation with respect to the operating rod is provided in the lower plate main body and the like below the stick controller 122. The stick controller 122 includes a vibrator motor 126 (see FIG. 3) for causing the stick controller 122 to vibrate.

  The member that forms the hitting ball supply tray (upper plate) 3 is subjected to a predetermined instruction operation, for example, by a player pressing a predetermined position on the upper surface of the upper plate body (for example, above the stick controller 122). A possible push button 120 is provided. The push button 120 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 124 (see FIG. 3) for detecting an operation action of the player performed on the push button 120 may be provided inside the main body of the upper plate at the position where the push button 120 is installed. In the configuration example shown in FIG. 1, the mounting positions of the push button 120 and the stick controller 122 are in a vertical positional relationship in the central portion of the upper plate and the lower plate. On the other hand, it is good also considering the attachment position of the push button 120 and the stick controller 122 as the position approached to either right or left in the upper plate and the lower plate, maintaining the vertical relationship. Alternatively, the mounting position of the push button 120 and the stick controller 122 is not in the vertical relationship, but may be in the horizontal relationship, for example.

  An effect display device 9 composed of a liquid crystal display device (LCD) is provided near the center of the game area 7. The display screen of the effect display device 9 includes an effect symbol display area for performing variable display of the effect symbol in synchronization with the variable display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol. Therefore, the effect display device 9 corresponds to a variable display device that performs variable display of effect symbols. The effect symbol display area includes a symbol display area for variably displaying, for example, three decorative (effect) effect symbols of “left”, “middle”, and “right”. The symbol display area includes “left”, “middle”, and “right” symbol display areas, but the position of the symbol display area does not have to be fixed on the display screen of the effect display device 9. Three areas of the display area may be separated. The effect display device 9 is controlled by an effect control microcomputer mounted on the effect control board. When the first special symbol display 8a is executing variable display of the first special symbol, the effect control microcomputer causes the effect display device 9 to execute the effect display along with the variable display, and the second special symbol display 8a executes the second special display. When the variable display of the second special symbol is executed on the symbol display 8b, the effect display is executed by the effect display device 9 along with the variable display, so that the progress of the game can be easily grasped. .

  Further, in the effect display device 9, symbols other than the symbol that will be the final stop symbol (for example, the middle symbol of the left and right middle symbols) have continued for a predetermined time, and the jackpot symbol (for example, the left middle right symbol is aligned with the same symbol) Stops, swings, scales, or deforms in a state that matches the symbol combination), or multiple symbols fluctuate synchronously in the same symbol, or the position of the display symbol is switched Thus, an effect performed in a state where the possibility of occurrence of a big hit (hereinafter, these states are referred to as reach states) before the final result is displayed is referred to as reach effect. Further, the reach state and its state are referred to as a reach mode. Furthermore, variable display including reach production is called reach variable display. And when the display result of the symbol variably displayed on the effect display device 9 is not a big hit symbol, it becomes “out” and the variation display state ends. A player plays a game while enjoying how to generate a big hit.

  Note that, in this embodiment, a case is shown in which the effect symbol display is performed as a liquid crystal display effect in the effect display device 9, but the effect performed in the effect display device 9 is the one shown in this embodiment. For example, an effect having a predetermined story characteristic may be executed, and an effect may be executed in which the result of the story is displayed based on the determination result of the jackpot determination or the variation pattern. For example, perform a battle effect where professional wrestling or soccer matches and enemy characters fight, perform an effect to win the game or battle if it is a big hit, and perform an effect to defeat the game or battle if it is off Also good. Further, for example, instead of displaying the result such as winning or losing, an effect may be executed in which a predetermined story such as a story is developed in order.

  In the upper right part of the display screen of the effect display device 9, there are provided fourth symbol display areas 9c and 9d for displaying a fourth symbol after the effect symbol, a special symbol described later, and a normal symbol. In this embodiment, a fourth symbol display area 9c for the first special symbol in which the variation display of the fourth symbol for the first special symbol is performed in synchronization with the variation display of the first special symbol described later, There is provided a fourth symbol display area 9d for the second special symbol in which the variation display of the fourth symbol for the second special symbol is performed in synchronization with the variation display of the special symbol.

  In this embodiment, the variation display of the effect symbol is executed in synchronization with the variation display of the special symbol (however, to be precise, the variation display of the effect symbol is varied on the effect control microcomputer 100 side). This is done by measuring the variation time recognized based on the pattern command.) When performing an effect using the effect display device 9, for example, the effect content including the change display of the effect symbol disappears from the screen for a moment. There are a variety of effects such as effects being performed and effects in which movable objects shield all or part of the screen. For this reason, even if the display screen on the effect display device 9 is viewed, it may be difficult to recognize whether or not the current variation display is in progress. Therefore, in this embodiment, whether or not the state of the present variation is being displayed by confirming the state of the fourth symbol by further displaying the variation of the fourth symbol on a part of the display screen of the effect display device 9. It is possible to recognize whether or not. Note that the 4th symbol is always variably displayed with a constant operation and does not disappear from the screen or is not shielded by a shielding object, so that it can always be visually recognized.

  The 4th symbol for the first special symbol and the 4th symbol for the 2nd special symbol may be collectively referred to as the 4th symbol, and the 4th symbol display area 9c for the 1st special symbol and the 2nd special symbol The 4th symbol display area 9d for symbols may be collectively referred to as a 4th symbol display area.

  The variation (variable display) of the fourth symbol is realized by continuing the state where the fourth symbol display areas 9c and 9d are repeatedly turned on and off at a predetermined time interval in a predetermined display color (for example, blue). . The variable display of the first special symbol on the first special symbol display unit 8a is synchronized with the variable display of the fourth symbol for the first special symbol in the fourth symbol display area 9c for the first special symbol. The variable display of the second special symbol on the second special symbol display 8b is synchronized with the variable display of the fourth symbol for the second special symbol in the fourth symbol display area 9d for the second special symbol. Synchronous means that the variable display start time and end time are the same, and the variable display period is the same.

  Further, when the big hit symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a, it is displayed in the display color reminiscent of the big hit in the fourth symbol display area 9c for the first special symbol (a display color different from the deviation). The For example, it is displayed in blue when it is off, while it is displayed in red when it is a big hit. Note that the display color may be varied depending on the type of jackpot (whether it is probable jackpot or normal jackpot). Also, the display color may be different depending on whether or not the game ball can be expected to win a big winning opening, and if it is possible to control multiple types of big hits with different numbers of rounds, The display color may be changed according to the number of rounds continued in the game. Even if the number of rounds per jackpot is the same, for example, the jackpot opening time per round is short (for example, 1 second), and a jackpot that cannot be expected to win a game ball in the jackpot. If the opening time of the big prize opening per round is long (for example, 30 seconds) and there is a big hit that can be expected to win a game ball to the big prize opening substantially, to the big prize opening substantially The display color may be varied depending on whether or not a game ball can be expected to win. In addition, for example, when there is a big hit that cannot be expected and a big hit that cannot be expected due to the difference in the number of times the big winning opening is opened per round, The display color may be varied depending on whether or not the game ball can be expected to win the mouth.

  When the big win symbol is stopped and displayed on the second special symbol display 8b, it is displayed in a display color reminiscent of the big hit in the fourth symbol display area 9d for the second special symbol (a display color different from the disparity). The For example, it is displayed in blue when it is off, while it is displayed in red when it is a big hit. Note that the display color may be varied depending on the type of jackpot (whether it is probable jackpot or normal jackpot). Also, the display color may be different depending on whether or not the game ball can be expected to win a big winning opening, and if it is possible to control multiple types of big hits with different numbers of rounds, The display color may be changed according to the number of rounds continued in the game. Even if the number of rounds per jackpot is the same, for example, the jackpot opening time per round is short (for example, 1 second), and a jackpot that cannot be expected to win a game ball in the jackpot. If the opening time of the big prize opening per round is long (for example, 30 seconds) and there is a big hit that can be expected to win a game ball to the big prize opening substantially, to the big prize opening substantially The display color may be varied depending on whether or not a game ball can be expected to win. In addition, for example, when there is a big hit that cannot be expected and a big hit that cannot be expected due to the difference in the number of times the big winning opening is opened per round, The display color may be varied depending on whether or not the game ball can be expected to win the mouth.

  The display colors when the fourth symbol display areas 9c and 9d are turned off are different from the background image (for example, black) in order to prevent the display colors from being assimilated with the background image when the lights are turned off. It is desirable to be.

  In this embodiment, the case where the 4th symbol display area is provided on a part of the display screen of the effect display device 9 is shown, but a light emitter such as a lamp or LED is used separately from the effect display device 9. Thus, the fourth symbol display area may be realized. In this case, for example, the variation (variable display) of the fourth symbol may be realized by continuing the state in which the two LEDs are alternately lit, and any of the two LEDs is stopped. Whether or not the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed may be indicated depending on whether or not it is displayed.

  Further, in this embodiment, a case is shown in which separate fourth symbol display areas 9c and 9d are provided corresponding to the first special symbol and the second special symbol, respectively, but the first special symbol and the second special symbol are provided. A fourth symbol display area common to the symbols may be provided in a part of the display screen of the effect display device 9. Moreover, you may make it implement | achieve the 4th symbol display area common with respect to a 1st special symbol and a 2nd special symbol using light-emitting bodies, such as a lamp | ramp and LED. In this case, when executing the variation display of the fourth symbol in synchronization with the variation display of the first special symbol, and when executing the variation display of the fourth symbol in synchronization with the variation display of the second special symbol, For example, the display of different display colors at certain time intervals may be performed by distinguishing and executing the variation display of the fourth symbol by performing display that repeatedly turns on and off. In addition, when the variation display of the fourth symbol is executed in synchronization with the variation display of the first special symbol, and when the variation display of the fourth symbol is performed in synchronization with the variation display of the second special symbol, for example, The display of the fourth symbol may be distinguished and executed by performing a display that repeatedly turns on and off at different time intervals. In addition, for example, when the stop symbol is derived and displayed corresponding to the variation display of the first special symbol, and when the stop symbol is derived and displayed corresponding to the variation display of the second special symbol, the same big hit symbol is obtained. However, you may make it stop-display the stop symbol of a different aspect.

  On the right side of the effect display device 9, a first special symbol display (first variable display unit) 8a for variably displaying the first special symbol as identification information is provided. In this embodiment, the first special symbol display 8a is realized by a simple and small display (for example, 7 segment LED) capable of variably displaying numbers 0 to 9. In other words, the first special symbol display 8a is configured to variably display numbers (or symbols) from 0 to 9. Further, on the right side of the effect display device 9 (next to the right of the first special symbol display 8a), a second special symbol display (second variable display unit) 8b for variably displaying the second special symbol as identification information. Is also provided. The second special symbol display 8b is realized by a simple and small display (for example, 7 segment LED) capable of variably displaying numbers 0 to 9. That is, the second special symbol display 8b is configured to variably display numbers (or symbols) from 0 to 9.

  The small display is formed in a square shape, for example. In this embodiment, the type of the first special symbol and the type of the second special symbol are the same (for example, both 0 to 9), but the types may be different. Further, the first special symbol display 8a and the second special symbol display 8b may be configured to variably display numbers (or two-digit symbols) of, for example, 00 to 99, for example.

  Hereinafter, the first special symbol and the second special symbol may be collectively referred to as a special symbol, and the first special symbol indicator 8a and the second special symbol indicator 8b are collectively referred to as a special symbol indicator (variable display unit). There are things to do.

  Although this embodiment shows a case where two special symbol indicators 8a and 8b are provided, the gaming machine may be provided with only one special symbol indicator.

  For the variable display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol, the first start condition or the second start condition, which is the variable display execution condition, is satisfied (for example, the game ball has the first start winning opening 13 or the second start winning opening) 14 after passing (including winning)), the variable display start condition (for example, when the number of reserved memories is not 0 and the variable display of the first special symbol and the second special symbol is not executed) The state is started and the big hit game is not executed), and when the variable display time (fluctuation time) elapses, the display result (stop symbol) is derived and displayed. Note that the passing of a game ball means that the game ball has passed through a predetermined area such as a prize opening or a gate, and that includes a game ball entering (winning) a prize opening. It is. Deriving and displaying the display result is to finally stop and display a symbol (an example of identification information).

  A winning device having a first start winning port 13 is provided below the effect display device 9. The game ball won in the first start winning opening 13 is guided to the back of the game board 6 and detected by the first start opening switch 13a.

  A variable winning ball device 15 having a second starting winning port 14 through which a game ball can be won is provided below a winning device having a first starting winning port (first starting port) 13. The game ball that has won the second start winning opening (second start opening) 14 is guided to the back of the game board 6 and detected by the second start opening switch 14a. The variable winning ball device 15 is opened by a solenoid 16. When the variable winning ball device 15 is in the open state, the game ball can be won at the second start winning port 14 (it is easier to start winning), which is advantageous for the player. In the state where the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is in the open state, it is easier for the game ball to win the second start winning opening 14 than the first starting winning opening 13. In addition, in a state where the variable winning ball device 15 is in the closed state, the game ball does not win the second start winning opening 14. Therefore, in a state where the variable winning ball device 15 is in the closed state, it is easier for the game ball to win the first starting winning port 13 than the second starting winning port 14. In the state where the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is in the closed state, it may be configured that the winning is possible (that is, it is difficult for the gaming ball to win) although it is difficult to win a prize.

  Hereinafter, the first start winning opening 13 and the second start winning opening 14 may be collectively referred to as a start winning opening or a starting opening.

  When the variable winning ball device 15 is controlled to be in the open state, the game ball heading for the variable winning ball device 15 is very likely to win the second start winning port 14. The first start winning opening 13 is provided directly under the effect display device 9, but the interval between the lower end of the effect display device 9 and the first start winning opening 13 is further reduced, or the first start winning opening is set. The nail arrangement around the first start winning opening 13 is made difficult to guide the game balls to the first starting winning opening 13 so that the winning rate of the second starting winning opening 14 is increased. It is also possible to make the direction higher than the winning rate of the first start winning opening 13.

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, the variable winning ball apparatus 15 that opens and closes only the second start winning opening 14 is provided. Any of the start winning ports 14 may be provided with a variable winning ball device that performs an opening / closing operation.

  Above the second special symbol display 8b, there is a second special symbol hold memory display 18b comprising four displays for displaying the number of effective winning balls that have entered the second start winning opening 14, that is, the second reserved memory number. Is provided. The second special symbol storage memory display 18b increases the number of indicators to be lit by 1 every time there is an effective start winning. Then, each time the variable display on the second special symbol display 8b is started, the number of indicators to be turned on is reduced by one.

  Further, above the second special symbol hold memory display 18b, the number of effective winning balls that have entered the first start winning opening 13, that is, the first hold memory number (the hold memory is also referred to as start memory or start prize memory). ) Is displayed, a first special symbol reservation storage display 18a is provided. The first special symbol storage memory indicator 18a increases the number of indicators to be lit by 1 each time there is an effective start winning. Then, each time the variable display on the first special symbol display 8a is started, the number of indicators to be turned on is reduced by one.

  Also, at the lower part of the display screen of the effect display device 9, there are provided a first reserved memory display unit 18c for displaying the first reserved memory number and a second reserved memory display unit 18d for displaying the second reserved memory number. ing. In addition, you may make it provide the area | region (sum total pending | holding memory display part) which displays the total number (sum total pending memory count) which is the sum total of the 1st pending memory count and the 2nd pending memory count. As described above, if the summation pending storage display section for displaying the total number is provided, it is possible to easily grasp the total number of execution conditions that are not satisfied with the variable display start condition.

  The effect display device 9 is for decoration (for effects) during the variable display time of the first special symbol by the first special symbol display 8a and during the variable display time of the second special symbol by the second special symbol display 8b. A variable display of the effect symbol as the symbol is performed. The variable display of the first special symbol on the first special symbol display 8a and the variable display of the effect symbol on the effect display device 9 are synchronized. Further, the variable display of the second special symbol on the second special symbol display 8b and the variable display of the effect symbol on the effect display device 9 are synchronized. Further, when the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a and when the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed on the second special symbol display 8b, the effect display device 9 reminds the jackpot The combination of is stopped and displayed.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 1, a special variable winning ball apparatus 20 that forms a big winning opening is provided below the variable winning ball apparatus 15. The special variable winning ball apparatus 20 includes an opening / closing plate, and is specified when a specific display result is derived and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a and when a specific display result is derived and displayed on the second special symbol display 8b. Controlled to gaming state. The specific display result is a predetermined display result. For example, in the present embodiment, there is a jackpot symbol. The specific game state is to change the variable winning means that can be changed between the first state advantageous to the player and the second state unfavorable to the player to the first state. There is a big hit gaming state in which the special variable winning ball apparatus 20 that can be changed to a closed state is opened. For example, when the big hit symbol is derived and displayed as the specific display result, the big hit game state is controlled as the specific game state. In each specific game state, the open / closed version that is in the closed state is controlled to be in the open state by the solenoid 21, so that the large winning opening that becomes the winning area is in the open state. The game ball that has won the big winning opening is detected by the count switch 23.

  On the left side of the effect display device 9, a normal symbol display 10 for variably displaying normal symbols is provided. In this embodiment, the normal symbol display 10 is realized by a simple and small display (for example, 7 segment LED) capable of variably displaying numbers 0 to 9. That is, the normal symbol display 10 is configured to variably display numbers (or symbols) from 0 to 9. Moreover, the small display is formed in, for example, a square shape. Note that the normal symbol display 10 may be configured to variably display a number (or a two-digit symbol) of, for example, 00 to 99. In addition, the normal symbol display 10 is not limited to a 7-segment LED or the like, for example, a display capable of lighting a predetermined symbol display (for example, a decoration lamp capable of alternately lighting and displaying “O” and “X”). It may be comprised.

  When the game ball passes through the gate 32 and is detected by the gate switch 32a, variable display of the normal symbol display 10 is started. When the stop symbol in the normal symbol display 10 is a predetermined symbol (a winning symbol, for example, a symbol “7”), the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is opened for a predetermined number of times. In other words, the state of the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is a state that is advantageous from a disadvantageous state for the player when the normal symbol is a stop symbol (a state in which a game ball can be awarded at the second start winning port 14). To change. In the vicinity of the normal symbol display 10, a normal symbol holding storage display 41 having a display unit with four LEDs for displaying the number of winning balls that have passed through the gate 32 is provided. Each time there is a game ball passing through the gate 32, that is, every time a game ball is detected by the gate switch 32a, the normal symbol storage memory display 41 increases the number of LEDs to be turned on by one. Each time variable display on the normal symbol display 10 is started, the number of LEDs to be lit is reduced by one. In addition, a probability variation state in which the probability of being determined to be a big hit compared to the normal state is high (a state in which the probability of being determined to be a big hit as a result of fluctuation display of special symbols is increased compared to the normal state). Then, there is a case where the probability that the stop symbol in the normal symbol display 10 becomes a winning symbol is increased, and the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is shifted to a high base state where the opening time and the number of times of opening are increased.

  At the lower part of the game board 6, there is an out port 26 into which a hit ball that has not won a prize is taken. In addition, four speakers 27 that utter sound effects and sounds as predetermined sound outputs are provided on the upper left and right and lower left and right outside the game area 7. On the outer periphery of the game area 7, a frame LED 28 provided on the front frame is provided.

  In the gaming machine, a ball striking device (not shown) that drives a driving motor in response to a player operating the batting operation handle 5 and uses the rotational force of the driving motor to launch a gaming ball to the gaming area 7. ) Is provided. A game ball launched from the ball striking device enters the game area 7 through a ball striking rail formed in a circular shape so as to surround the game area 7, and then descends the game area 7. When the game ball enters the first start winning opening 13 and is detected by the first start opening switch 13a, if the variable display of the first special symbol can be started (for example, the variable display of the special symbol ends, 1), the variable display (variation) of the first special symbol is started on the first special symbol display 8a, and the variable display of the effect symbol is started on the effect display device 9. That is, the variable display of the first special symbol and the effect symbol corresponds to winning in the first start winning opening 13. If the variable display of the first special symbol cannot be started, the first reserved memory number is increased by 1 on the condition that the first reserved memory number has not reached the upper limit value.

  When the game ball enters the second start winning opening 14 and is detected by the second start opening switch 14a, if the variable display of the second special symbol can be started (for example, the special symbol variable display ends, 2), the second special symbol display 8b starts variable display (variation) of the second special symbol, and the effect display device 9 starts variable display of the effect symbol. That is, the variable display of the second special symbol and the effect symbol corresponds to winning in the second start winning opening 14. If the variable display of the second special symbol cannot be started, the second reserved memory number is increased by 1 on condition that the second reserved memory number has not reached the upper limit value.

  In this embodiment, when the 15R probability variation big hit or the 4R probability variation big hit is reached, the game state is shifted to a high probability state, and the game ball becomes easy to start winning (that is, the special symbol indicators 8a, 8b, A transition is made to the high base state, which is a gaming state controlled so that the variable display execution condition in the effect display device 9 is easily established. In the high base state, for example, the frequency at which the variable winning ball device 15 is in the open state is increased or the time in which the variable winning ball device 15 is in the open state is extended compared to the case in which the high base state is not in the high base state. It becomes easier to win a start.

  Instead of extending the time during which the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is in the open state (also referred to as the open extended state), the normal symbol display unit 10 shifts to a normal symbol probability changing state in which the probability that the stop symbol in the normal symbol display unit 10 will be a hit symbol is increased. Depending on the situation, the high base state may be entered. When the stop symbol in the normal symbol display 10 becomes a predetermined symbol (winning symbol), the variable winning ball device 15 is opened for a predetermined number of times. In this case, by performing the transition control to the normal symbol probability changing state, the probability that the stop symbol in the normal symbol display 10 becomes a winning symbol is increased, and the frequency at which the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is opened is increased. Therefore, if the normal symbol probability changing state is entered, the opening time and the number of opening times of the variable winning ball device 15 are increased, and a state where it is easy to start a winning (high base state) is achieved. That is, the opening time and the number of times of opening of the variable winning ball device 15 can be increased when the stop symbol of the normal symbol is a winning symbol or the stop symbol of the special symbol is a probabilistic symbol. It changes to an advantageous state (a state where it is easy to win a start). It should be noted that increasing the number of times of opening is a concept including changing from a closed state to an open state.

  Moreover, you may transfer to a high base state by shifting to the normal symbol time short state where the fluctuation time (variable display period) of the normal symbol in the normal symbol display 10 is shortened. In the normal symbol short-time state, the variation time of the normal symbol is shortened, so that the frequency of starting the variation of the normal symbol increases, and as a result, the frequency of hitting the normal symbol increases. Therefore, when the frequency that the normal symbol is hit increases, the frequency that the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is opened is increased, and the start winning state is easily set (high base state).

  In addition, by changing to the short time state (special symbol short time state) in which the variation time (variable display period) of special symbols and staging symbols is shortened, the variation time of special symbols and staging symbols is shortened. The frequency at which the production symbol changes is increased (in other words, the reserved memory is quickly digested), and the situation in which an invalid start prize is generated can be reduced. Therefore, an effective start winning is likely to occur, and as a result, the possibility of a big hit game being increased.

  Furthermore, by shifting to all the states shown above (open extended state, normal symbol probability changing state, normal symbol short time state, and special symbol short time state), it will be easier to win a start (shift to a high base state). May be. In addition, it becomes easier to win a start (high base) by shifting to any one of the above states (open extended state, normal symbol probability changing state, normal symbol short time state, and special symbol short time state). Transition to a state). In addition, it is easier to win a start by shifting to any one of the above states (open extended state, normal symbol probability changing state, normal symbol short time state, and special symbol short time state). You may make it move to a base state.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the circuit configuration of the main board (game control board) 31. FIG. 2 also shows a payout control board 37, an effect control board 80, and the like. A game control microcomputer (corresponding to game control means) 560 for controlling the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to a program is mounted on the main board 31. The game control microcomputer 560 includes a ROM 54 for storing a game control (game progress control) program and the like, a RAM 55 as storage means used as a work memory, a CPU 56 for performing control operations in accordance with the program, and an I / O port unit 57. including. In this embodiment, the ROM 54 and the RAM 55 are built in the game control microcomputer 560. That is, the game control microcomputer 560 is a one-chip microcomputer. The one-chip microcomputer only needs to incorporate at least the CPU 56 and the RAM 55, and the ROM 54 may be external or built-in. The I / O port unit 57 may be externally attached. The game control microcomputer 560 further includes a random number circuit 503 that generates hardware random numbers (random numbers generated by the hardware circuit).

  The RAM 55 is a backup RAM as a non-volatile storage means, part or all of which is backed up by a backup power source created on the power supply substrate 910. That is, even if the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped, a part or all of the contents of the RAM 55 is stored for a predetermined period (until the capacitor as the backup power supply is discharged and the backup power supply cannot be supplied). In particular, at least data (special symbol process flag, probability variation flag, etc.) corresponding to the game state, that is, the control state of the game control means, and data indicating the number of unpaid prize balls are stored in the backup RAM. The data corresponding to the control state of the game control means is data necessary for restoring the control state before the occurrence of a power failure or the like based on the data when the power is restored after a power failure or the like occurs. Further, data corresponding to the control state and data indicating the number of unpaid prize balls are defined as data indicating the progress state of the game. In this embodiment, it is assumed that the entire RAM 55 is backed up.

  In the game control microcomputer 560, the CPU 56 executes control in accordance with the program stored in the ROM 54, so that the game control microcomputer 560 (or CPU 56) executes (or performs processing) hereinafter. Specifically, the CPU 56 executes control according to a program. The same applies to microcomputers mounted on substrates other than the main substrate 31.

  The random number circuit 503 is a hardware circuit that is used to generate a random number for determination to determine whether or not to win a jackpot based on a display result of variable symbol special display. The random number circuit 503 updates numerical data in accordance with a set update rule within a numerical range in which an initial value (for example, 0) and an upper limit value (for example, 65535) are set, and starts at a random timing Based on the fact that the winning time is the reading (extraction) of the numerical data, it has a random number generation function in which the numerical data to be read becomes a random value.

  The random number circuit 503 includes a numeric data update range selection setting function (initial value selection setting function and upper limit value selection setting function), numeric data update rule selection setting function, and numeric data update rule selection. It has various functions such as a switching function. With such a function, the randomness of the generated random numbers can be improved.

  Further, the game control microcomputer 560 has a function of setting an initial value of numerical data updated by the random number circuit 503. For example, a predetermined calculation is performed using the ID number of the game control microcomputer 560 stored in a predetermined storage area such as the ROM 54 (an ID number assigned with a different value for each product of the game control microcomputer 560). The numerical data obtained by the execution is set as the initial value of the numerical data updated by the random number circuit 503. By performing such processing, the randomness of the random number generated by the random number circuit 503 can be further improved.

  Further, an input driver circuit 58 that provides detection signals from the gate switch 32a, the first start port switch 13a, the second start port switch 14a, and the count switch 23 to the game control microcomputer 560 is also mounted on the main board 31. The main board also includes an output circuit 59 for driving the solenoid 16 for opening and closing the variable winning ball device 15 and the solenoid 21 for opening and closing the special variable winning ball device 20 that forms a big winning opening in accordance with a command from the game control microcomputer 560. 31.

  In addition, the game control microcomputer 560 includes a first special symbol display 8a, a second special symbol display 8b that variably displays special symbols, a normal symbol display 10 that variably displays normal symbols, and a first special symbol hold memory. Display control of the display 18a, the second special symbol storage memory display 18b, and the normal symbol storage memory display 41 is performed.

  An information output circuit 64 that outputs information output signals such as jackpot information indicating the occurrence of a jackpot gaming state to an external device such as a hall computer via the terminal board 160 is also mounted on the main board 31.

  In this embodiment, the effect control means (configured by the effect control microcomputer) mounted on the effect control board 80 instructs the effect contents from the game control microcomputer 560 via the relay board 77. An effect control command is received, and display control of the effect display device 9 for variably displaying effect symbols is performed.

  The effect control means mounted on the effect control board 80 controls the display of the frame LED 28 provided on the frame side via the lamp driver board 35 and from the speaker 27 via the audio output board 70. Control the sound output.

  FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a circuit configuration example of the relay board 77, the effect control board 80, the lamp driver board 35, and the audio output board 70. In the example shown in FIG. 3, the lamp driver board 35 and the audio output board 70 are not equipped with a microcomputer, but may be equipped with a microcomputer. Further, without providing the lamp driver board 35 and the audio output board 70, only the effect control board 80 may be provided for effect control.

  The effect control board 80 includes an effect control CPU 101 and an effect control microcomputer 100 including a RAM for storing information related to effects such as effect symbol process flags. The RAM may be externally attached. In this embodiment, the RAM in the production control microcomputer 100 is not backed up. In the effect control board 80, the effect control CPU 101 operates in accordance with a program stored in a built-in or external ROM (not shown), and receives a capture signal from the main board 31 input via the relay board 77 ( In response to the (effect control INT signal), an effect control command is received via the input driver 102 and the input port 103. Further, the effect control CPU 101 causes the VDP (video display processor) 109 to perform display control of the effect display device 9 based on the effect control command.

  In this embodiment, a VDP 109 that performs display control of the effect display device 9 in cooperation with the effect control microcomputer 100 is mounted on the effect control board 80. The VDP 109 has an address space independent of the production control microcomputer 100, and maps a VRAM therein. VRAM is a buffer memory for developing image data. Then, the VDP 109 outputs the image data in the VRAM to the effect display device 9 via the frame memory.

  The effect control CPU 101 outputs to the VDP 109 a command for reading out necessary data from a CGROM (not shown) in accordance with the received effect control command. The CGROM stores character image data and moving image data displayed on the effect display device 9, specifically, a person, characters, figures, symbols (including effect symbols), and background image data in advance. ROM. The VDP 109 reads image data from the CGROM in response to the instruction from the effect control CPU 101. The VDP 109 executes display control based on the read image data.

  The effect control command and the effect control INT signal are first input to the input driver 102 on the effect control board 80. The input driver 102 passes the signal input from the relay board 77 only in the direction toward the inside of the effect control board 80 (does not pass the signal in the direction from the inside of the effect control board 80 to the relay board 77). It is also a unidirectional circuit as a regulating means.

  As a signal direction regulating means, the signal inputted from the main board 31 is allowed to pass through the relay board 77 only in the direction toward the effect control board 80 (the signal is not passed in the direction from the effect control board 80 to the relay board 77). The unidirectional circuit 74 is mounted. For example, a diode or a transistor is used as the unidirectional circuit. FIG. 3 illustrates a diode. A unidirectional circuit is provided for each signal. Furthermore, since the effect control command and the effect control INT signal are output from the main board 31 via the output port 571 that is a unidirectional circuit, the signal from the relay board 77 toward the inside of the main board 31 is restricted. That is, the signal from the relay board 77 does not enter the inside of the main board 31 (the game control microcomputer 560 side). The output port 571 is a part of the I / O port unit 57 shown in FIG. Further, a signal driver circuit that is a unidirectional circuit may be further provided outside the output port 571 (on the relay board 77 side).

  In addition, the effect control CPU 101 inputs an operation detection signal as an information signal indicating that the player's operation action on the trigger button 121 of the stick controller 122 has been detected from the trigger sensor 125 via the input port 106. Further, the effect control CPU 101 inputs an operation detection signal as an information signal indicating that a player's operation action on the push button 120 has been detected from the push sensor 124 via the input port 106. In addition, the production control CPU 101 inputs an operation detection signal as an information signal indicating that the player's operation action with respect to the operation rod of the stick controller 122 has been detected from the tilt direction sensor unit 123 via the input port 106. . Further, the effect control CPU 101 outputs a drive signal to the vibrator motor 126 via the output port 105 to cause the stick controller 122 to vibrate.

  Further, the effect control CPU 101 outputs a signal for driving the LED to the lamp driver board 35 via the output port 105. Further, the production control CPU 101 outputs sound number data to the audio output board 70 via the output port 104.

  In the lamp driver board 35, a signal for driving the LED is input to the LED driver 352 via the input driver 351. The LED driver 352 supplies a current to a light emitter such as the frame LED 28 based on a signal for driving the LED.

  In the voice output board 70, the sound number data is input to the voice synthesis IC 703 via the input driver 702. The voice synthesizing IC 703 generates voice or sound effect according to the sound number data, and outputs it to the amplifier circuit 705. The amplification circuit 705 outputs an audio signal obtained by amplifying the output level of the speech synthesis IC 703 to a level corresponding to the volume set by the volume 706 to the speaker 27. The voice data ROM 704 stores control data corresponding to the sound number data. The control data corresponding to the sound number data is a collection of data showing the output form of the sound effect or sound in a time series in a predetermined period (for example, the changing period of the effect design). The voice synthesis IC 703 generates a voice and outputs the voice to the speaker 27 when a predetermined request is received from the effect control board 80.

  Next, the operation of the gaming machine will be described. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing main processing executed by the CPU 56 of the game control microcomputer 560 in response to the start of power supply to the game machine and the reset signal to the game control microcomputer 560 becoming high level. It is. When the input level of the reset terminal to which the reset signal is input becomes a high level, the CPU 56 of the game control microcomputer 560 executes a security check process that is a process for confirming whether the contents of the program are valid. The main processing after step S1 is started. In the main process, the CPU 56 first performs necessary initial settings.

  In the initial setting process, the CPU 56 first sets the interrupt prohibition (step S1). Next, an interrupt mode for maskable interrupts is set (step S2), and a stack pointer designation address is set for the stack pointer (step S3). In step S2, the address synthesized from the value (1 byte) of the specific register (I register) of the game control microcomputer 560 and the interrupt vector (1 byte: least significant bit 0) output from the built-in device is Set to the mode indicating the interrupt address. When a maskable interrupt occurs, the CPU 56 automatically sets the interrupt disabled state and saves the contents of the program counter in the stack.

  Next, the built-in device register is set (initialized) (step S5). By the processing in step S5, the CTC (counter / timer) and PIO (parallel input / output port) which are built-in devices (built-in peripheral circuits) are set (initialized).

  The game control microcomputer 560 used in this embodiment also incorporates an I / O port (PIO) and a timer / counter circuit (CTC) 504.

  Next, the CPU 56 sets the RAM 55 in an accessible state (step S6), and proceeds to a clear signal check process.

  Note that a software delay process for delaying the start timing of the game device control process (game control process) for controlling the progress of the game by software may be executed. By such software delay processing, the start timing of the game control processing can be delayed as compared with the case where the software delay processing is not executed. When the delay process is executed, a situation occurs in which the microcomputer of the other control board cannot receive the command transmitted from the game control board (main board 31) to the other control board (for example, the payout control board 37). Can be prevented.

  Next, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the clear switch is turned on (step S7). Note that the CPU 56 may confirm the state of the clear signal only once via the input port 0, but may confirm the state of the clear signal a plurality of times. For example, if it is confirmed that the state of the clear signal is an off state, after a delay time of a predetermined time (for example, 0.1 seconds), the state of the clear signal is reconfirmed. If it is confirmed that the clear signal is in the on state at that time, it is determined that the clear signal is in the on state. Further, at this time, if it is confirmed that the state of the clear signal is the off state, after a delay time of a predetermined time, the state of the clear signal may be confirmed again. Here, the number of reconfirmations is not limited to once or twice, but may be three or more times. It is also possible to check twice and check again when the check results do not match.

  If the clear switch is not turned on in step S7, whether or not data protection processing of the backup RAM area (for example, power supply stop processing such as addition of parity data) has been performed when power supply to the gaming machine is stopped Confirm (step S8). In this embodiment, when power supply is stopped, a process for protecting data in the backup RAM area is performed. When it is confirmed that such power supply stop processing has been performed, the CPU 56 determines that the power supply stop processing has been performed, that is, the control state at the time of power supply stop is stored. . When it is confirmed that the power supply stop process is not performed, the CPU 56 executes an initialization process.

  Whether or not the power supply stop process has been performed is determined by the value of the backup monitoring timer stored in the backup RAM area in the power supply stop process corresponding to the execution of the power supply stop process (for example, 2). ) Is confirmed by whether or not. Note that such a confirmation method is an example. For example, a flag indicating that the power supply stop process has been executed is set in the backup flag area in the power supply stop process, and the flag is set in step S8. If it is confirmed that the power supply is stopped, it may be determined that the power supply stop process has been performed.

  If it is determined that the control state at the time of stopping power supply is stored, the CPU 56 performs data check (parity check in this example) in the backup RAM area (step S9). In this embodiment, clear data (00) is set in the checksum data area, and the checksum calculation start address is set in the pointer. Also, the number of checksum calculations corresponding to the number of data to be checksum is set. Then, the exclusive OR of the contents of the checksum data area and the contents of the RAM area pointed to by the pointer is calculated. The calculation result is stored in the checksum data area, the pointer value is incremented by 1, and the checksum calculation count value is decremented by 1. The above processing is repeated until the value of the checksum calculation count becomes zero. When the value of the checksum calculation count becomes 0, the CPU 56 inverts the value of each bit of the contents of the checksum data area and uses the inverted data as the checksum.

  In the power supply stop process, a checksum is calculated by the same process as described above, and the checksum is stored in the backup RAM area. In step S9, the calculated checksum is compared with the stored checksum. When the power supply is stopped after an unexpected power failure or the like, the data in the backup RAM area should be saved, so the check result (comparison result) is normal (matched). That the check result is not normal means that the data in the backup RAM area may be different from the data when the power supply is stopped. In such a case, since the internal state cannot be returned to the state when the power supply is stopped, the initialization process (the process of steps S10 to S14) executed when the power is turned on, not when the power supply is stopped is stopped. Run.

  If the check result is normal, the CPU 56 performs a game state restoration process for returning the internal state of the game control means and the control state of the electrical component control means such as the effect control means to the state when the power supply is stopped. Specifically, the start address of the backup setting table stored in the ROM 54 is set as a pointer (step S41), and the contents of the backup setting table are sequentially set in the work area (area in the RAM 55) (step S42). ). The work area is backed up by a backup power source. In the backup setting table, initialization data for an area that may be initialized in the work area is set. As a result of the processing in steps S41 and S42, the saved contents of the work area that should not be initialized remain as they are. The parts that should not be initialized include, for example, data indicating the gaming state before the power supply is stopped (special symbol process flag, probability change flag, etc.), the area where the output state of the output port is saved (output port buffer), This is a portion where data indicating the number of payout prize balls is set.

  Further, the CPU 56 sets the head address of the backup command transmission table stored in the ROM 54 as a pointer (step S43). Further, the CPU 56 transmits a power failure recovery designation command as an initialization command at the time of power supply recovery (step S44). Then, the process proceeds to step S15.

  In the initialization process, the CPU 56 first performs a RAM clear process (step S10). Note that the predetermined data may be left as it is without initializing the entire area of the RAM 55. Also, the initial address of the initialization setting table stored in the ROM 54 is set as a pointer (step S11), and the contents of the initialization setting table are sequentially set in the work area (step S12).

  By the processing of steps S11 and S12, for example, a normal symbol determination random number counter, a normal symbol determination buffer, a special symbol buffer, a special symbol process flag, a winning ball flag, a ball-out flag, and the like are selectively processed according to the control state. An initial value is set in a flag for performing the above.

  Further, the CPU 56 sets the start address of the initialization command transmission table stored in the ROM 54 as a pointer (step S13), and transmits an initialization command for initializing the sub board according to the contents to the sub board. Processing is executed (step S14). As an initialization command, a command indicating an initial symbol displayed on the effect display device 9, an initialization command to the payout control board 37, or the like can be used.

  Further, the CPU 56 executes a random number circuit setting process for initially setting the random number circuit 503 (step S15).

  Then, the CPU 56 executes a timer interrupt setting process for setting a CTC register built in the game control microcomputer 560 so that a timer interrupt is periodically taken every predetermined time (for example, 4 ms) ( Step S16). That is, a value corresponding to, for example, 4 ms is set in a predetermined register (time constant register) as an initial value. In this embodiment, it is assumed that a timer interrupt is periodically taken every 4 ms.

  When the timer interrupt setting is completed, the CPU 56 first disables the interrupt (step S17), executes the initial value random number update process (step S18a) and the display random number update process (step S18b), The interrupt is permitted again (step S19). That is, the CPU 56 sets the interrupt disabled state when the initial value random number update process and the display random number update process are executed, and interrupts enable state when the initial value random number update process and the display random number update process are finished. To.

  The initial value random number update process is a process of updating the count value of the counter for generating the initial value random number. The initial value random number is a random number for determining the type of jackpot (for example, a jackpot symbol determining random number for determining a special symbol for generating a jackpot or whether to shift the gaming state to a probable state) Initial value of the count value such as a counter (determination random number generation counter) for generating a probability variation determining random number for generating, a normal random number for determining whether or not to generate a hit based on a normal symbol It is a random number for determining the value. A game control process described later (a process in which a game control microcomputer controls itself a game device such as an effect display device 9, a variable winning ball device 15, a ball payout device 97 provided in the gaming machine, or When the count value of the determination random number generation counter makes one round in a process of transmitting a command signal to cause another microcomputer to control, or a gaming apparatus control process), an initial value is set in the counter.

  The display random number is a random number for determining the display of the special symbol display 8. In this embodiment, as a display random number, a random number for determining a variation pattern for determining a variation pattern of a special symbol, or a random number for determining a reach for determining whether or not to reach when a big hit is not generated, is used. Used. The display random number update process is a process for updating the count value of the counter for generating the display random number.

  In addition, when the display random number update process is executed, the interrupt disabled state is executed by the display random number update process and the initial value random number update process also in the timer interrupt process described later (that is, the timer This is because the same process is executed in steps S26 and S27 of the interrupt process), so as to avoid conflict with the process in the timer interrupt process. That is, if a timer interrupt is generated during the processing of steps S18a and S18b and the count value of the counter for generating the initial value random number and the display random number is updated during the timer interrupt processing, The continuity of values may be impaired. However, such an inconvenience does not occur if the interrupt is prohibited during the processing of steps S18a and S18b.

  Next, the timer interrupt process will be described. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the timer interrupt process. When a timer interrupt occurs during execution of the main process, specifically, in a period during which interruption is permitted during execution of the loop process of steps S17 to S19, the CPU 56 of the game control microcomputer 560 A timer interrupt process that is activated in response to the occurrence of a timer interrupt is executed. In the timer interrupt process, the CPU 56 first executes a power-off process (power-off detection process) for detecting whether or not a power-off signal is output (whether the power-on signal is turned on) (step S20). Then, the CPU 56 inputs detection signals of switches such as the gate switch 32a, the first start port switch 13a, the second start port switch 14a and the count switch 23 through the switch circuit 58, and detects the input of each switch. (Switch process: Step S21). Specifically, if the state of the input port for inputting the detection signal of each switch is ON, the value of the switch timer provided corresponding to each switch is incremented by one.

  Next, the CPU 56 executes display control processing for performing display control of the special symbol display 8, the normal symbol display 10, the special symbol hold storage display 18, and the normal symbol hold storage display 41 (step S22). For the special symbol display 8 and the normal symbol display 10, control for outputting a drive signal to each display is executed according to the contents of the output buffer set in steps S36 and S37.

  Next, the CPU 56 executes a winning notification process for detecting the occurrence of an abnormal winning at the special winning opening and notifying the abnormality (step S24).

  After step S24, the CPU 56 performs a process of updating the count value of each counter for generating each determination random number such as a random number for determination per ordinary symbol used for game control (determination random number update process: step S25). ). Further, the CPU 56 performs a process of updating the count value of the counter for generating the initial value random number (initial value random number update process: step S26). Further, the CPU 56 performs a process of updating the count value of the counter for generating the display random number (display random number update process: step S27).

  Next, the CPU 56 performs special symbol process processing (step S28). In the special symbol process, the corresponding process is selected and executed according to a special symbol process flag for controlling the pachinko gaming machine 1 in a predetermined order according to the gaming state. The value of the special symbol process flag is updated during each process according to the gaming state. Further, normal symbol process processing is performed (step S29). In the normal symbol process, the corresponding process is selected and executed according to the normal symbol process flag for controlling the display state of the normal symbol display 10 in a predetermined order. The value of the normal symbol process flag is updated during each process according to the gaming state.

  Next, the CPU 56 performs a process of transmitting an effect control command related to the effect symbol synchronized with the variation of the special symbol to the effect control microcomputer 100 (effect symbol command control process: step S30). It should be noted that the fact that the variation of the effect symbol is synchronized with the variation of the special symbol means that the variation time (variable display period) is the same.

  Next, the CPU 56 performs an information output process for outputting data such as a start port signal supplied to the hall management computer, a symbol determination number 1 signal, a symbol determination number 2 signal, a jackpot 1 to 3 signal, a time reduction signal, and the like. (Step S31).

  Further, the CPU 56 executes prize ball processing for setting the number of prize balls based on detection signals from the first start port switch 13a, the second start port switch 14a and the count switch 23 (step S32). Specifically, the payout control micro mounted on the payout control board 37 in response to the winning detection based on any one of the first start port switch 13a, the second start port switch 14a and the count switch 23 being turned on. A payout control command (prize ball number signal) indicating the number of prize balls is output to the computer. The payout control microcomputer drives the ball payout device 97 in accordance with a payout control command indicating the number of winning balls.

  In addition, a test terminal process, which is a process for outputting a test signal for enabling the control state of the gaming machine to be confirmed outside the gaming machine, is executed (step S33). In this embodiment, a RAM area (output port buffer) corresponding to the output state of the output port is provided, but the CPU 56 outputs the contents related to the solenoid in the RAM area of the output port 0 to the output port. (Step S34: Output processing). And CPU56 performs the memory | storage process which checks the increase / decrease in a pending | holding memory | storage number (step S35).

  Further, the CPU 56 performs special symbol display control processing for setting special symbol display control data for effect display of the special symbol in the output buffer for setting the special symbol display control data according to the value of the special symbol process flag ( Step S36). Further, the CPU 56 performs a normal symbol display control process for setting normal symbol display control data for effect display of the normal symbol in an output buffer for setting the normal symbol display control data according to the value of the normal symbol process flag ( Step S37).

  Next, the CPU 56 performs a status display lamp display process for setting status display control data for displaying each status display lamp in an output buffer for setting the status display control data (step S38). In this case, when the gaming state is also controlled to a high probability state (for example, a probability variation state), the state display control data for displaying the state indicator lamp indicating the high probability state is set in the output buffer. You may make it do.

  Thereafter, the interrupt permission state is set (step S39), and the process is terminated.

  With the above control, in this embodiment, the game control process is started every 4 ms. The game control process corresponds to the processes in steps S21 to S39 (excluding steps S31 and 33) in the timer interrupt process. In this embodiment, the game control process is executed by the timer interrupt process. However, in the timer interrupt process, for example, only a flag indicating that an interrupt has occurred is set, and the game control process is performed by the main process. May be executed.

  When the shifted symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b and the effect display device 9, the variable display state of the effect symbol is started after the variable display of the effect symbol is started. There may be a case where a predetermined combination of effects that does not reach reach is stopped and displayed without reaching reach. Such a variable display mode of the effect symbol is referred to as a variable display mode of “non-reach” (also referred to as “normally shift”) in a case where the variable display result is a loss symbol.

  When the shifted symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b and the effect display device 9, the variable display state of the effect symbol is started after the variable display of the effect symbol is started. After reaching the reach state, a reach effect is executed, and a combination of predetermined effect symbols that do not eventually become a jackpot symbol may be stopped and displayed. Such a variable display result of the effect design is referred to as a variable display mode of “reach” (also referred to as “reach out”) when the variable display result is “out of”.

  In this embodiment, when the big win symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b, the reach effect is executed after the variable display state of the effect symbol becomes the reach state. Eventually, the effect symbols are all stopped and displayed in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” symbol display areas 9L, 9C, and 9R on the effect display device 9.

  FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing the variation pattern of the effect symbol prepared in advance. As shown in FIG. 6, in this embodiment, the non-reach PA 1-1 to the non-reach are used as a variation pattern corresponding to the case where the variable display result is “out of” and the variable display mode of the effect design is “non-reach”. A variation pattern of reach PA1-4 is prepared. Further, normal PA2-1 to normal PA2-2, normal PB2-1 to normal PB2-2 are variations patterns corresponding to the case where the variable display result is “out of” and the variable display mode of the effect symbol is “reach”. Fluctuation patterns of Super PA3-1 to Super PA3-2 and Super PB3-1 to Super PB3-2 are prepared. Note that, as shown in FIG. 6, re-variation is performed once for the variation pattern of the non-reach PA 1-4 that is used in the case where the reach is not performed and is accompanied by a pseudo-continuous effect. Of the variation patterns used for reaching and accompanied by pseudo-rendition, when normal PB2-1 is used, re-variation is performed once. Further, the variation pattern of non-reach PA1-2 used when not reaching is a variation pattern for shortening variation, and the variation time of the effect design is shortened to a short time (3.0 seconds in this example). . Of the variation patterns that are used for reaching and have a pseudo-continuous effect, when normal PB2-2 is used, re-variation is performed twice. Furthermore, when using super PA3-1 to super PA3-2 among the fluctuation patterns used for reaching and accompanied by pseudo-rendition effects, re-variation is performed three times. Note that the re-variation means that the variable display of the effect symbol is executed again after temporarily stopping the effect symbol that is once deviated from the start of the variable display of the effect symbol until the display result is derived and displayed. .

  Also, as shown in FIG. 6, in this embodiment, normal PA2-3 to normal PA2-4, normal PB2-3 to normal P22-3 as normal patterns corresponding to the case where the variable symbol display result of the special symbol is a big hit symbol. Variation patterns of PB2-4, super PA3-3 to super PA3-4, super PB3-3 to super PB3-4 are prepared.

  Moreover, as shown in FIG. 6, when using normal PB2-3 among the fluctuation patterns accompanied with the effect of a pseudo-continuous, re-change is performed once. Of the fluctuation patterns used for reaching and accompanied by pseudo-continuous effects, when normal PB2-4 is used, re-variation is performed twice. Furthermore, when using super PA3-3 to super PA3-4 among the fluctuation patterns that are used for reaching and have the effect of pseudo-ream, re-variation is performed three times.

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 6, when the variation time is fixedly determined according to the type of reach (for example, the variation time is 32 in the case of Super Reach A with pseudo-ream). In the case of Super Reach A without pseudo-ream, the fluctuation time is fixed at 22.75 seconds). For example, even in the case of the same type of Super Reach Depending on the total number of pending storage, the variation time may be varied. For example, even with the same type of super reach, the variation time may be shortened as the total number of pending storage increases. Also, for example, even in the case of the same type of super reach, when the variable display of the first special symbol is performed, the variable time may be varied according to the first reserved memory number. When the variable display of the two special symbols is performed, the variable time may be varied according to the second reserved memory number. In this case, a separate determination table is prepared for each value of the first reserved memory number and the second reserved memory number (for example, the variation pattern type determination table for the reserved memory numbers 0 to 2 and the reserved memory numbers 3 and 4). For example, a determination table may be selected according to the value of the first reserved memory number or the second reserved memory number, and the change time may be varied.

FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing each random number. Each random number is used as follows.
(1) Random 1 (MR1): Determines the type of jackpot (15R probability variation big hit, 4R probability variation big hit, which will be described later) (for jackpot type determination)
(2) Random 2 (MR2): The type (type) of the variation pattern is determined (for variation pattern type determination)
(3) Random 3 (MR3): A variation pattern (variation time) is determined (for variation pattern determination)
(4) Random 4 (MR4): Determines whether or not to generate a hit based on a normal symbol (for normal symbol hit determination)
(5) Random 5 (MR5): Determine the initial value of random 4 (for determining the initial value of random 4)

  In this embodiment, the variation pattern is first determined using the variation pattern type determination random number (random 2), and then the variation pattern determined using the variation pattern determination random number (random 3). One of the variation patterns included in the pattern type is determined. Thus, in this embodiment, the variation pattern is determined by a two-stage lottery process.

  The variation pattern type is a group of a plurality of variation patterns according to the characteristics of the variation mode. For example, a plurality of variation patterns are grouped by reach type, and include a variation pattern type including a variation pattern with normal reach, a variation pattern type including a variation pattern with super reach A, and a variation pattern with super reach B. It may be divided into variable pattern types. Further, for example, a plurality of variation patterns are grouped by the number of re-variations of pseudo-continuations, a variation pattern type including a variation pattern without pseudo-ream, a variation pattern type including a variation pattern of one re-variation, It may be divided into a variation pattern type including a variation pattern of two variations and a variation pattern type including a variation pattern of three variations. Further, for example, a plurality of variation patterns may be grouped according to the presence / absence of a specific effect such as a pseudo ream or a slip effect.

  In step S25 in the game control process shown in FIG. 5, the game control microcomputer 560 uses a counter for generating the jackpot type determination random number (1) and the random number for determination per ordinary symbol (4). Count up (add 1). That is, they are determination random numbers, and other random numbers are display random numbers (random 2, random 3) or initial value random numbers (random 5). In addition, in order to improve a game effect, you may use random numbers other than said random number. In this embodiment, a random number generated by hardware incorporated in the game control microcomputer 560 (or hardware external to the game control microcomputer 560) is used as the jackpot determination random number. Note that a software random number instead of a hardware random number may be used as the jackpot determination random number.

  FIG. 8A is an explanatory diagram showing a jackpot determination table. The jackpot determination table is a collection of data stored in the ROM 54 and is a table in which a jackpot determination value to be compared with the random R is set. The jackpot determination table includes a normal-time jackpot determination table used in a normal state (that is, a gaming state that is not a probability change state) and a probability change jackpot determination table used in a probability change state. Each value described in the left column of FIG. 8 (A) is set in the normal jackpot determination table, and each value described in the right column of FIG. 8 (A) is set in the probability change jackpot determination table. Is set. The numerical value described in FIG. 8A is a jackpot determination value.

  The CPU 56 extracts the count value of the random number circuit 503 at a predetermined time and sets the extracted value as the value of the big hit determination random number (random R). The big hit determination random number is shown in FIG. If it matches any of the big hit determination values, it is decided to make a big hit (15R probability variation big hit, 4R probability variation big hit, which will be described later) for the special symbol. Note that the “probability” shown in FIG. 8A indicates the probability (ratio) of a big hit. Further, deciding whether or not to win a jackpot means deciding whether or not to shift to the jackpot gaming state, but the stop symbol in the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b is determined. It also means deciding whether or not to make a jackpot symbol.

  FIGS. 8B and 8C are explanatory diagrams showing the jackpot type determination tables 131 a and 131 b stored in the ROM 54. Among these, FIG. 8 (B) determines the jackpot type using the hold memory based on the game ball winning the first start winning opening 13 (that is, when the variable display of the first special symbol is performed). This is a jackpot type determination table (for the first special symbol) 131a. FIG. 8C shows a case where the jackpot type is determined by using the hold memory based on the game ball having won the second start winning opening 14 (that is, when the second special symbol is displayed in a variable manner). Is a jackpot type determination table (for the second special symbol) 131b.

  The jackpot type determination tables 131a and 131b, when it is determined that the variable display result is a jackpot symbol, based on a random number (random 1) for determining the jackpot type, the jackpot type is set to “15R probability variable big hit”, It is a table that is referred to in order to determine one of “4R probability variation big hit”. In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 8B and 8C, 10 determination values are assigned to “15R probability variation big hit” in the big hit type determination table 131a (40 minutes). Is determined to be a 15R probability variation jackpot at a rate of 10), whereas 30 judgment values are assigned to the “15R probability variation jackpot” in the jackpot type determination table 131b (ratio of 30/40) Will be described as 15R probability variation big hit). Therefore, in this embodiment, the start prize is given to the second start prize port 14 and the second special symbol is displayed rather than the case where the first special symbol variation display is executed after the start prize is given to the first start prize slot 13. When the variable display is executed, the ratio determined as “15R probability variation big hit” is higher.

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 8B and 8C, there are “15R probability variation big hit” and “4R probability variation big hit” as big hit types. In this embodiment, the number of rounds executed in the jackpot game is two types of 15 rounds and four rounds, but the number of rounds executed in the jackpot game is shown in this embodiment. It can't be limited to things. For example, there may be provided a 10R probability variable jackpot that is controlled to 10 round jackpot game, a 7R probability variable jackpot that is controlled to 7 round jackpot game, and a 5R probability variable jackpot that is controlled to 5 round jackpot game. In this embodiment, the case where there are two types of jackpot types, “15R probability variation jackpot” and “4R probability variation jackpot”, is not limited to two types, but for example, three or more types of jackpot types are provided. You may do it. Conversely, the jackpot type may be less than two types, for example, only one type may be provided as the jackpot type.

  The “15R probability variable big hit” is a big hit that is controlled to the big round gaming state of 15 rounds and shifts to the probability changed state after the big hit gaming state is finished. Are also migrated). Then, until the variable display is executed a predetermined number of times (50 times), the probability variation state and the time reduction state are continued. Hereinafter, the gaming state controlled to the probability variation state and the short time state may be referred to as a “high probability high base state”, and the state that is not controlled to any of the probability variation state and the short time state may be referred to as a “low probability low base state”. .

  “4R probability variable big hit” is a big hit that is controlled to a four-round big hit gaming state, and shifts to the probability changed state after the big hit gaming state is finished. Are also migrated). Then, until the variable display is executed a predetermined number of times (50 times), the probability variation state and the time reduction state are continued.

  In the jackpot type determination tables 131a and 131b, numerical values to be compared with a random value of 1, and determination values (big hit type determination values) corresponding to each of “15R probability variation big hit” and “4R probability variation big hit” are set. ing. When the value of random 1 matches any of the jackpot type determination values, the CPU 56 determines the jackpot type as a type corresponding to the matched jackpot type determination value.

  FIG. 9 and FIG. 10 are explanatory diagrams showing an example of contents of the effect control command transmitted by the game control microcomputer 560. In the example shown in FIG. 9 and FIG. 10, the command 80XX (H) is an effect control command (variation pattern command) that specifies a variation pattern of the effect symbol that is variably displayed on the effect display device 9 in response to variable display of the special symbol. (Each corresponding to a variation pattern XX). That is, when a unique number is assigned to each variation pattern that can be used, there is a variation pattern command corresponding to each variation pattern specified by the number. “(H)” indicates a hexadecimal number. The effect control command for designating the variation pattern is also a command for designating the start of variation. Therefore, when the effect control microcomputer 100 receives the command 80XX (H), the effect display device 9 controls the effect display device 9 to start variable display of the effect symbols.

  Commands 8C01 (H) to 8C03 (H) are effect control commands indicating whether or not to make a big hit and the type of big hit. The effect control microcomputer 100 determines the display results of the effect symbols in response to the reception of the commands 8C01 (H) to 8C03 (H), so the commands 8C01 (H) to 8C03 (H) are referred to as display result designation commands.

  Command 8D01 (H) is an effect control command (first symbol variation designation command) indicating that variable display (variation) of the first special symbol is started. Command 8D02 (H) is an effect control command (second symbol variation designation command) indicating that variable display (variation) of the second special symbol is started. The first symbol variation designation command and the second symbol variation designation command may be collectively referred to as a special symbol specifying command (or symbol variation designation command). Note that information indicating whether to start variable display of the first special symbol or variable display of the second special symbol may be included in the variation pattern command.

  Command 8F00 (H) is an effect control command (symbol confirmation designation command) indicating that the variable display (fluctuation) of the fourth symbol is terminated and the display result (stop symbol) is derived and displayed. When receiving the symbol confirmation designation command, the effect control microcomputer 100 ends the variable display (fluctuation) of the fourth symbol and derives and displays the display result.

  Command 9000 (H) is an effect control command (initialization designation command: power-on designation command) transmitted when power supply to the gaming machine is started. Command 9200 (H) is an effect control command (power failure recovery designation command) transmitted when power supply to the gaming machine is resumed. When the power supply to the gaming machine is started, the gaming control microcomputer 560 transmits a power failure recovery designation command if data is stored in the backup RAM, and if not, initialization designation is performed. Send a command.

  Command 9F00 (H) is an effect control command (customer waiting demonstration designation command) for designating a customer waiting demonstration.

  Commands A001 to A002 (H) are effect control commands for displaying a fanfare screen, that is, designating the start of a big hit game (big hit start designation command: fanfare designation command). In this embodiment, depending on the type of jackpot, either a jackpot start 1 designation command or a jackpot start 2 designation command is used. Specifically, if it is “15R probability variation big hit”, the big hit start 1 designation command (A001 (H)) is used, and if it is “4R probability variation big hit”, the big hit start 2 designation command (A002 (H)) ) Is used.

  The command A1XX (H) is an effect control command (special command during opening of a big winning opening) indicating a display during the opening of the big winning opening for the number of times (round) indicated by XX. Since the value specifying the round is set in the EXT data for each round, and the command for opening a special prize opening is transmitted, a different command for opening a special prize opening is transmitted for each round. A2XX (H) is an effect control command (designation command after opening the big winning opening) indicating the closing of the big winning opening for the number of times (round) indicated by XX. In addition, since the value specifying the round is set in the EXT data for each round and the designation command after opening the special winning opening is transmitted, a different designation command after opening the special winning opening is transmitted for each round.

  The commands A301 (H) and A302 (H) display a jackpot end screen, that is, an effect control command for specifying the end of the jackpot game (a jackpot end 1 designation command: an ending 1 designation command, a jackpot end 2 designation command: an ending) 2 designation command). The big hit end 1 designation command (A301 (H)) is used when the big hit game by “15R probability variable big hit” is ended. The big hit end 2 designation command (A302 (H)) is used when the big hit game by “4R probability variable big hit” is ended.

  Command B000 (H) is an effect control command (normal state background designation command) for designating background display when the gaming state is the normal state. The command B001 (H) is an effect control command (probability change state background designation command) for designating a background display when the gaming state is the probability change state.

  Command C000 (H) is an effect control command (first reserved memory number addition designation command) that specifies that the first reserved memory number has increased by one. Command C100 (H) is an effect control command (second reserved memory number addition designation command) that specifies that the second reserved memory number has increased by one. Command C200 (H) is an effect control command (first reserved memory number subtraction designation command) that specifies that the first reserved memory number has decreased by one. Command C300 (H) is an effect control command (second reserved memory number subtraction designation command) that specifies that the second reserved memory number has decreased by one.

  The effect control microcomputer 100 (specifically, the effect control CPU 101) mounted on the effect control board 80 receives the effect control command described above from the game control micro computer 560 mounted on the main board 31. Then, the display state of the effect display device 9 is changed according to the contents shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the display state of the lamp is changed, or the sound number data is output to the audio output board 70. To do.

  For example, the game control microcomputer 560 designates the variation pattern of the effect symbol whenever there is a start prize and variable display of the special symbol is started on the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b. The variation pattern command and the display result designation command are transmitted to the production control microcomputer 100.

  In this embodiment, the effect control command has a 2-byte structure, the first byte represents MODE (command classification), and the second byte represents EXT (command type). The first bit (bit 7) of the MODE data is always set to “1”, and the first bit (bit 7) of the EXT data is always set to “0”. Note that such a command form is an example, and other command forms may be used. For example, a control command composed of 1 byte or 3 bytes or more may be used.

  In addition, as the transmission method of the effect control command, the effect control command data is output from the main board 31 to the effect control board 80 via the relay board 77 by the eight parallel signal lines of the effect control signals CD0 to CD7, In addition to the effect control command data, a method of outputting a pulse-shaped (rectangular wave-shaped) capture signal (effect control INT signal) for instructing capture of the effect control command data is used. The 8-bit effect control command data of the effect control command is output in synchronization with the effect control INT signal. The effect control microcomputer 100 mounted on the effect control board 80 detects that the effect control INT signal has risen, and starts a 1-byte data capturing process through an interrupt process.

  In the example shown in FIG. 9 and FIG. 10, the change pattern command and the display result designation command are displayed as variable display (change) and second special display of the effect symbol corresponding to the change of the first special symbol on the first special symbol display 8a. An effect display that can be used in common with the variable display (variation) of the effect symbol corresponding to the variation of the second special symbol on the symbol display 8b, and that produces an effect with the variable display of the first special symbol and the second special symbol. It is possible to prevent an increase in the types of commands transmitted from the game control microcomputer 560 to the effect control microcomputer 100 when controlling the effect parts such as the device 9.

  FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of a special symbol process (step S26) program executed by the game control microcomputer 560 (specifically, the CPU 56) mounted on the main board 31. As described above, in the special symbol process, a process for controlling the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b and the special winning opening is executed. In the special symbol process, the CPU 56 detects that the first start port switch 13a for detecting that the game ball has won the first start winning port 13 or that the game ball has won the second start winning port 14. If the second start opening switch 14a is turned on, that is, if a start winning to the first start winning opening 13 or a start winning to the second start winning opening 14 has occurred, the start opening switch passing process is performed. Execute (Steps S311 and S312). Then, any one of steps S300 to S307 is performed. If the first start winning port switch 13a or the second start port switch 14a is not turned on, any one of steps S300 to S307 is performed according to the internal state.

  The processes in steps S300 to S307 are as follows.

  Special symbol normal processing (step S300): Executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is zero. When the game control microcomputer 560 is in a state where variable display of the special symbol can be started, the game control microcomputer 560 checks the number of numerical data stored in the reserved storage number buffer (total number of reserved storage). The stored number of numerical data stored in the pending storage number buffer can be confirmed by the count value of the total pending storage number counter. If the count value of the total pending storage number counter is not 0, it is determined whether or not the display result of the variable display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol is a big hit. In case of big hit, set big hit flag. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (1 in this example) according to step S301. The jackpot flag is reset when the jackpot game ends.

  Fluctuation pattern setting process (step S301): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 1. Also, the variation pattern is determined, and the variation time in the variation pattern (variable display time: the time from the start of variable display until the display result is derived and displayed (stop display)) is defined as the variation display variation time of the special symbol. Decide to do. Also, a variable time timer for measuring the special symbol variable time is started. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (2 in this example) corresponding to step S302.

  Display result designation command transmission process (step S302): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 2. Control for transmitting a display result designation command to the production control microcomputer 100 is performed. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (3 in this example) corresponding to step S303.

  Special symbol changing process (step S303): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 3. When the variation time of the variation pattern selected in the variation pattern setting process elapses (the variation time timer set in step S301 times out, that is, the variation time timer value becomes 0), the design control microcomputer 100 determines the symbol. Control to transmit the specified command is performed, and the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (4 in this example) corresponding to step S304. The effect control microcomputer 100 controls the effect display device 9 to stop the fourth symbol when receiving the symbol confirmation designation command transmitted by the game control microcomputer 560.

  Special symbol stop process (step S304): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 4. When the big hit flag is set, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (5 in this example) corresponding to step S305. If the big hit flag is not set, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S300 (0 in this example). In this embodiment, as will be described later, a special symbol display control for stopping and displaying a special symbol stop symbol in the special symbol display control process based on the fact that the value of the special symbol process flag is 4. The data is set in the output buffer for setting the special symbol display control data, and the special symbol stop symbol is actually stopped and displayed according to the setting contents of the output buffer in the display control processing in step S22.

  Preliminary winning opening opening process (step S305): This is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 5. In the pre-opening process for the big prize opening, control for opening the big prize opening is performed. Specifically, a counter (for example, a counter that counts the number of game balls that have entered the big prize opening) is initialized and the solenoid 21 is driven to open the big prize opening. Also, the execution time of the special prize opening opening process is set by the timer, and the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S306 (6 in this example). The pre-opening process for the big winning opening is executed for each round, but when the first round is started, the pre-opening process for the big winning opening is also a process for starting the big hit game.

  Large winning opening opening process (step S306): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 6. A control for transmitting an effect control command for round display during the big hit gaming state to the effect control microcomputer 100, a process for confirming the completion of the closing condition of the big prize opening, and the like are performed. If the closing condition for the special prize opening is satisfied and there are still remaining rounds, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (5 in this example) corresponding to step S305. When all the rounds are completed, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S307 (7 in this example).

  Big hit end process (step S307): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 7. Control is performed to cause the microcomputer 100 for effect control to perform display control for notifying the player that the big hit gaming state has ended. Further, a process for setting a flag (for example, a probability variation flag) indicating a gaming state is performed. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (0 in this example) corresponding to step S300.

  FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the start port switch passing process in step S312. In the start port switch passing process, the CPU 56 first checks whether or not the first start port switch 13a is in an ON state (step S1211). If the first start port switch 13a is not in the ON state, the process proceeds to step S1217. If the first start port switch 13a is on, the CPU 56 determines whether or not the first reserved memory number has reached the upper limit (specifically, the first reserved memory for counting the first reserved memory number). Whether or not the value of the number counter is 4 is confirmed (step S1212). If the first reserved storage number has reached the upper limit value, the process proceeds to step S1217.

  If the first reserved memory number has not reached the upper limit value, the CPU 56 increases the value of the first reserved memory number counter by 1 (step S1213), and the value of the total reserved memory number counter for counting the total reserved memory number Is increased by 1 (step S1214). Next, the CPU 56 extracts values from the random number circuit 503 and a counter for generating software random numbers, and executes a process of storing them in a storage area in the first reserved storage buffer (see FIG. 13) (step S1215). . In the process of step S1215, a random R (big hit determination random number) that is a hardware random number, a big hit type determination random number (random 1) that is a software random number, a variation pattern type determination random number (random 2), and a variation pattern A random number for determination (random 3) is extracted and stored in the storage area. Note that the variation pattern type determination random number (random 2) and the variation pattern determination random number (random 3) are not extracted and stored in advance in the storage area in the start port switch passing process (at the time of start winning). You may make it extract at the time of the change start of 1 special symbol. For example, the game control microcomputer 560 directly extracts a value from a variation pattern type determination random number counter for generating a variation pattern type determination random number (random 2) in a variation pattern setting process to be described later, A value may be directly extracted from a variation pattern determination random number counter for generating a determination random number (random 3).

  FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of an area (hold buffer) for storing random numbers and the like corresponding to the hold memory. As shown in FIG. 13, a storage area corresponding to the upper limit value (4 in this example) of the first reserved storage number is secured in the first reserved storage buffer. In the second reserved storage buffer, a storage area corresponding to the upper limit value of the second reserved storage number (4 in this example) is secured. In this embodiment, the first reserved storage buffer and the second reserved storage buffer include a random R (big hit determination random number) that is a hardware random number, a big hit type determination random number (random 1) that is a software random number, a variation A random number for pattern type determination (random 2) and a random number for variation pattern determination (random 3) are stored. The first reserved storage buffer and the second reserved storage buffer are formed in the RAM 55.

  Then, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit the first reserved memory number addition designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S1216).

  Next, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the second start port switch 14a is in an on state (step S1217). If the second start port switch 14a is not in the ON state, the process is terminated as it is. If the second start port switch 14a is in the ON state, the CPU 56 determines whether or not the second reserved memory number has reached the upper limit value (specifically, the second reserved memory for counting the second reserved memory number). It is confirmed whether or not the value of the number counter is 4 (step S1218). If the second reserved storage number has reached the upper limit value, the processing is terminated as it is.

  If the second reserved memory number has not reached the upper limit value, the CPU 56 increases the value of the second reserved memory number counter by 1 (step S1219), and the value of the aggregate reserved memory number counter for counting the total reserved memory number Is increased by 1 (step S1220). Next, the CPU 56 extracts values from the random number circuit 503 and a counter for generating software random numbers, and executes a process of storing them in a storage area in the second reserved storage buffer (see FIG. 13) (step S1221). . In the process of step S1221, a random R (big hit determination random number) that is a hardware random number, a big hit type determination random number (random 1) that is a software random number, a variation pattern type determination random number (random 2), and a variation pattern A random number for determination (random 3) is extracted and stored in the storage area. It should be noted that the random number for random pattern determination (random 3) is not extracted and stored in the storage area in advance in the start-port switch passing process (at the time of start winning), but is extracted at the start of the variation of the second special symbol. May be. For example, the game control microcomputer 560 may directly extract a value from a variation pattern determination random number counter for generating a variation pattern determination random number (random 3) in a variation pattern setting process described later.

  Then, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit the second reserved memory number addition designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S222).

  14 and 15 are flowcharts showing the special symbol normal process (step S300) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol normal process, the CPU 56 confirms the value of the total number of reserved storage (step S51). Specifically, the count value of the total pending storage number counter is confirmed. If the total pending storage number is 0, if the customer waiting demonstration designation command has not yet been transmitted, control is performed to send the customer waiting demonstration designation command to the production control microcomputer 100 (step S51A), and the processing is performed. finish. For example, when the CPU 56 transmits a customer waiting demonstration designation command in step S51A, the CPU 56 sets a customer waiting demonstration designation command transmitted flag indicating that the customer waiting demonstration designation command has been transmitted. When the special symbol normal processing after the next timer interruption is executed after sending the customer waiting demo designation command, the customer waiting demonstration request command is repeatedly set based on the fact that the customer waiting demo designation command transmission completed flag is set. Control should be performed so that the demo designation command is not transmitted. In this case, the customer waiting demonstration designation command transmission completion flag may be reset when the next special symbol variation display is started.

  If the total reserved memory number is not 0, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the second reserved memory number is 0 (step S52). Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the second reserved memory number counter is zero. If the second reserved memory number is not 0, the CPU 56 has a special symbol pointer (a flag indicating whether the special symbol process is being performed for the first special symbol or the special symbol process is being performed for the second special symbol). Is set to data indicating “second” (step S53). If the second reserved memory number is 0 (that is, only the first reserved memory number is accumulated), the CPU 66 sets data indicating “first” in the special symbol pointer (step S54).

  In this embodiment, by executing the processing of steps S52 to S54, the variation display of the second special symbol is executed with priority over the variation display of the first special symbol. In other words, control is performed so that the second start condition for starting the variable display of the second special symbol is established in preference to the first start condition for starting the variable display of the first special symbol.

  Next, the CPU 56 reads out each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the reserved storage number = 1 indicated by the special symbol pointer in the RAM 55 and stores it in the random number buffer area of the RAM 55 (step S55). Specifically, when the special symbol pointer indicates “first”, the CPU 56 determines each disturbance stored in the storage area corresponding to the first reserved memory number = 1 in the first reserved memory number buffer. The numerical value is read and stored in the random number buffer area of the RAM 55. In addition, when the special symbol pointer indicates “second”, the CPU 56 reads each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the second reserved memory number = 1 in the second reserved memory number buffer. And stored in the random number buffer area of the RAM 55.

  Then, the CPU 56 decrements the count value of the reserved storage number counter indicated by the special symbol pointer, and shifts the contents of each storage area (step S56). Specifically, when the special symbol pointer indicates “first”, the CPU 56 decrements the count value of the first reserved memory number counter by 1 and saves each storage area in the first reserved memory number buffer. Shift the contents of. When the special symbol pointer indicates “second”, the count value of the second reserved memory number counter is decremented by 1, and the contents of each storage area in the second reserved memory number buffer are shifted.

  That is, when the special symbol pointer indicates “first”, the CPU 56 saves the first reserved memory number = n (n = 2, 3, 4) in the first reserved memory number buffer of the RAM 55. Are stored in a storage area corresponding to the first reserved memory number = n−1. Further, when the special symbol pointer indicates “second”, it is stored in the storage area corresponding to the second reserved memory number = n (n = 2, 3, 4) in the second reserved memory number buffer of the RAM 55. Each random number value is stored in a storage area corresponding to the second reserved memory number = n−1.

  Therefore, the order in which each random value stored in each storage area corresponding to each first reserved memory number (or each second reserved memory number) is extracted is always the first reserved memory number (or (Second reserved storage number) = 1, 2, 3, 4 in order.

  Then, the CPU 56 decreases the value of the total pending storage number by one. That is, 1 is subtracted from the count value of the total pending storage number counter (step S58). The CPU 56 stores the value of the total pending storage number counter before the count value is decremented by 1 in a predetermined area of the RAM 55.

  Moreover, CPU56 performs control which transmits a background designation | designated command to the microcomputer 100 for effect control according to the present game state (step S60). In this case, when the probability variation flag indicating the probability variation state is set, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a probability variation state background designation command. Further, if the probability variation flag is not set, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a normal state background designation command.

  Note that, in this embodiment, the background designation command is transmitted every time for each variation. Only when the state changes, the background designation command corresponding to the changed gaming state may be transmitted. With such a configuration, the number of transmissions of the background designation command can be reduced, and the processing burden on the game control microcomputer 560 can be reduced.

  Specifically, when the CPU 56 transmits the effect control command to the effect control microcomputer 100, the address of the command transmission table (preliminarily set for each command in the ROM) corresponding to the effect control command is given. Set to pointer. Then, the address of the command transmission table corresponding to the effect control command is set in the pointer, and the effect control command is transmitted in the effect symbol command control process (step S30). In this embodiment, when the variation of the special symbol is started, the effect control microcomputer in the order of the background designation command, the variation pattern command, the display result designation command, and the reserved memory number subtraction designation command for each timer interrupt. 100 will be transmitted. Specifically, when the change of the special symbol is started, first, the background designation command is transmitted, the variation pattern command is transmitted after 4 ms elapses, the display result designation command is transmitted after elapse of 4 ms, and further after 4 ms elapses. A pending storage count subtraction designation command is transmitted. In addition, the symbol variation designation command (the first symbol variation designation command, the second symbol variation designation command) is also transmitted when the special symbol variation starts, but the symbol variation designation command is the same timer interrupt as the variation pattern command. Is transmitted to the production control microcomputer 100.

  In the special symbol normal process, first, data indicating “first” indicating that the process is executed for the first start winning opening 13, that is, “first” indicating that the process is executed for the first special symbol. ”Or“ second ”indicating that the process is performed on the second special symbol, that is,“ second ”indicating that the process is performed on the second start winning opening 14. Data is set in the special symbol pointer. In the subsequent processing in the special symbol process, processing corresponding to the data set in the special symbol pointer is executed. Therefore, the process of steps S300 to S307 can be shared between the case where the first special symbol is the target and the case where the second special symbol is the target.

  Next, the CPU 56 reads a random R (a jackpot determination random number) from the random number buffer area and executes a jackpot determination module. In this case, the CPU 56 reads the jackpot determination random number extracted in steps S1215 and S1221 of the start port switch passage processing and stored in advance in the first hold storage buffer and the second hold storage buffer, and performs the jackpot determination. The jackpot determination module is a program that compares a jackpot determination value (see FIG. 8) determined in advance with a jackpot determination random number, and executes a process of determining a jackpot if they match. In other words, this is a program for executing the big hit determination process.

  The jackpot determination process is configured such that when the gaming state is a probable change state (high probability state), the probability of a big hit is higher than when the gaming state is a non-probability change state (normal game state). Specifically, a jackpot determination table (a table in which the numerical value on the right side of FIG. 8A in the ROM 54 is set) in which a large number of jackpot determination values are set in advance and the number of jackpot determination values are changed There is provided a normal big hit determination table (a table in which the numerical values on the left side of FIG. 8A in the ROM 54 are set) set to be smaller than the big hit determination table. Then, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the gaming state is a probability variation state. If the gaming state is a probability variation state, the jackpot determination process is performed using the probability variation jackpot determination table, and the gaming state is normal. When in the gaming state, the big hit determination process is performed using the normal big hit determination table. That is, when the value of the big hit determination random number (random R) matches one of the big hit determination values shown in FIG. 8A, the CPU 56 determines that the special symbol is a big hit. If it is determined to be a big hit (step S61), the process proceeds to step S62. Note that deciding whether to win or not is to decide whether or not to shift to the big hit gaming state, but to decide whether or not to stop the special symbol display as a big hit symbol. But there is.

  Note that whether or not the current gaming state is the probability variation state is determined by whether or not the probability variation flag is set. The probability variation flag is set when the gaming state is shifted to the probability variation state, and is reset when the probability variation state is terminated. Specifically, it is determined to be 15R probability variation big hit or 4R probability variation big hit, and is set in the process of ending the big hit game. When the big hit is decided, the special symbol variation display is terminated and the stop symbol is stopped. Is reset at a timing to end or 50 times of special symbol variation display.

  If the value of the jackpot determination random number (random R) does not match any of the jackpot determination values (N in step S61), the CPU 56 proceeds to step S66 as it is.

  In step S62, the CPU 56 sets a big hit flag indicating that it is a big hit. Then, the jackpot type determination table indicated by the special symbol pointer is selected as a table used to determine the jackpot type as one of a plurality of types (step S63). Specifically, when the special symbol pointer indicates “first”, the CPU 56 selects the jackpot type determination table 131a for the first special symbol shown in FIG. 8B. Further, when the special symbol pointer indicates “second”, the CPU 56 selects a big hit type determination table 131b for the second special symbol shown in FIG. 8C.

  Next, the CPU 56 uses the selected jackpot type determination table to select the type corresponding to the value of the random number (random 1) for determining the big hit type stored in the random number buffer area (“15R probability variable big hit”, “ 4R probability variation jackpot ") is determined as the jackpot type (step S64). In this case, the CPU 56 reads the jackpot type determination random number extracted in steps S1215 and S1221 of the start port passing process and stored in advance in the first hold memory buffer and the second hold memory buffer, and determines the jackpot type. .

  Further, the CPU 56 sets data indicating the determined jackpot type in the jackpot type buffer in the RAM 55 (step S65). For example, when the big hit type is “15R probability variable big hit”, “01” is set as data indicating the big hit type, and when the big hit type is “4R positive variable big hit”, “02” is set as the data indicating the big hit type. Is done.

  Next, the CPU 56 determines a special symbol stop symbol (step S66). Specifically, when the big hit flag is not set, “−” as a special symbol is determined as a stop symbol of the special symbol. When the big hit flag is set, one of the big hit symbols is determined as a special symbol stop symbol according to the determination result of the big hit type. That is, when “15R probability variation big hit” is determined, “7” is determined as a special symbol stop symbol, and when “4R probability variation big hit” is determined, “3” is determined as a special symbol stop symbol.

  In this embodiment, the case where the jackpot type is first determined and the stop symbol of the special symbol corresponding to the determined jackpot type is shown, but the method for determining the jackpot type and the stop symbol of the special symbol is as follows. It is not limited to what is shown in the embodiment. For example, a table in which a special symbol stop symbol and a jackpot type are associated in advance is prepared, and a special symbol stop symbol is first determined based on a random number for determining the big hit type. You may comprise so that a classification may also be determined.

  Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the variation pattern setting process (step S301) (step S67).

  FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing the variation pattern setting process (step S301) in the special symbol process. In the variation pattern setting process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the big hit flag is set (step S91). When the big hit flag is set, the CPU 56 determines which of the big hit variation pattern type determination tables as a table used to determine the variation pattern type as one of a plurality of types according to the big hit type. Is selected (step S92). Then, control goes to a step S98.

  When the big hit flag is not set, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the probability variation flag indicating the probability variation state is set (step S93). The probability variation flag is set when the gaming state is shifted to the probability variation state, and is reset when the probability variation state is terminated. Specifically, it is determined to be 15R probability variation big hit or 4R probability variation big hit, and is set in the process of ending the big hit game. When the big hit is decided, the special symbol variation display is terminated and the stop symbol is stopped. Is reset at the timing of ending or 50 variable display ends. If the probability variation flag is set (Y in step S93), the CPU 56 uses a variation pattern type determination table for deviation for probability variation as a table used to determine one of the plurality of variation pattern types. Select (step S97). Then, control goes to a step S98.

  If the probability variation flag is not set (N in Step S93), the CPU 56 checks whether or not the total number of pending storages is 3 or more (Step S94). If the total number of pending storages is less than 3 (N in step S94), the CPU 56 uses a normal deviation variation pattern type determination table as a table used to determine one of a plurality of variation pattern types. Is selected (step S95). Then, control goes to a step S98.

  When the total number of pending storages is 3 or more (Y in step S94), the CPU 56 uses the table for determining the variation pattern type as one of a plurality of types as a table used for declining the variation time. A variation pattern type determination table is selected (step S96). Then, control goes to a step S98.

  In this embodiment, when the total number of pending storages is 3 or more by executing the processing of steps S93 to S96, the deviation variation pattern type determination table for variation time reduction is selected. Further, when the gaming state is a probability variation state, a probability variation variation pattern type determination table is selected. In this case, non-reach CA2-3 may be determined as the variation pattern type in the process of step S98 described later, and when the variation pattern type of non-reach CA2-3 is determined, the process changes in step S99. Short reach variation non-reach PA1-2 is determined as a pattern. Therefore, in this embodiment, when the gaming state is the probability variation state or when the total number of pending storages is 3 or more, the variation display of the shortening variation may be performed.

  In this embodiment, the variation pattern type determination table for shortening variation used in the probability variation state and the variation pattern type determination table for shortening variation based on the number of reserved storages are different tables. A common table may be used as the variation pattern type determination table for variation.

  Even if the gaming state is a probable change state, if the total number of pending storage is almost 0 (for example, 0, 0, or 1), a change display of a shortened change is performed. It may not be possible. In this case, for example, when the CPU 56 determines Y in step S93, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the total pending storage number is almost zero. A determination table may be selected.

  Next, the CPU 56 reads random 2 (random number for variation pattern type determination) from the random number buffer area (the first reserved storage buffer or the second reserved storage buffer) and selects it in the process of steps S92, S83, S97, S95 or S96. By referring to the table, the variation pattern type is determined as one of a plurality of types (step S98). In the case where the random number 2 (variation pattern type determination random number) is not extracted at the start winning timing, the CPU 56 determines the variation pattern type for generating the random number for variation pattern type determination (random 2). A value may be directly extracted from the random number counter for use, and the variation pattern type may be determined based on the extracted random value.

  Next, based on the determination result of the variation pattern type in step S98, the CPU 56 uses a jackpot variation pattern determination table and a loss variation pattern determination table as tables used to determine one of a plurality of variation patterns. One of them is selected (step S99). Further, the random pattern 3 (random number for variation pattern determination) is read from the random number buffer area (first reserved storage buffer or second reserved storage buffer), and the variation pattern is determined by referring to the variation pattern determination table selected in the process of step S99. Is determined as one of a plurality of types (step S100). When the random number 3 (variation pattern determination random number) is not extracted at the start winning timing, the CPU 56 uses the variation pattern determination random number counter for generating the variation pattern determination random number (random 3). It is also possible to extract the value directly from and to determine the variation pattern based on the extracted random number value.

  Next, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit the symbol variation designation command indicated by the special symbol pointer to the production control microcomputer 100 (step S101). Specifically, when the special symbol pointer indicates “first”, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a first symbol variation designation command. In addition, when the special symbol pointer indicates “second”, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a second symbol variation designation command. Further, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit an effect control command (variation pattern command) corresponding to the determined variation pattern to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S102).

  Next, the CPU 56 sets a value corresponding to the variation time corresponding to the selected variation pattern in the variation time timer formed in the RAM 55 (step S103). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the display result designation command transmission process (step S302) (step S104).

  In the case where it is determined to be out of place, instead of suddenly determining the variation pattern type, first, it may be determined whether or not to reach by a lottery process using a random number for reach determination. Then, based on the determination result as to whether or not to reach, the processing of steps S93 to S96 and S98 may be executed to determine the variation pattern type. In this case, a variation pattern type determination table for non-reach and a variation pattern type determination table for reach are prepared in advance, and one of the variation pattern type determination tables is selected based on the reach determination result. The variation pattern type may be determined.

  In addition, when determining whether or not to reach by a lottery process using a reach determination random number, depending on the total reserved memory number (which may be the first reserved memory number or the second reserved memory number), Reach determination tables having different selection ratios may be selected, and it may be determined whether or not to reach so that the reach probability decreases as the number of reserved memories increases.

  FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing the display result designation command transmission process (step S302). In the display result designation command transmission process, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit any effect control command (see FIG. 9) of display result 1 designation to display result 3 designation according to the determined type of jackpot or loss. Do. Specifically, the CPU 56 first checks whether or not the big hit flag is set (step S105). If not set, the process proceeds to step S109. When the big hit flag is set, if the big hit type is “15R probability variation big hit”, control for transmitting a display result 2 designation command is performed (steps S106 and S107). Whether or not it is “15R probability variation big hit” is specifically determined by checking whether or not the data set in the big hit type buffer in step S65 of the special symbol normal processing is “01”. it can. Further, when the big hit type is “4R probability variation big hit”, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a display result 3 designation command (steps S106 and S108). Whether or not it is “4R probability variation big hit” is specifically determined by checking whether or not the data set in the big hit type buffer in step S65 of the special symbol normal processing is “02”. it can.

  On the other hand, when the big hit flag is not set (N of step S105), that is, when it is out of place, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a display result 1 designation command (step S109).

  Then, the CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the special symbol changing process (step S303) (step S110).

  FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing the special symbol stop process (step S304) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol stop process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the big hit flag is set (step S131). If the big hit flag is set, the CPU 56 resets the probability variation flag indicating the probability variation state if it is set (step S132).

  Next, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a big hit start designation command to the production control microcomputer 100 (step S133). Specifically, when the type of jackpot is a 15R probability variable jackpot, a jackpot start 1 designation command is transmitted. When the jackpot type is 4R probability variation jackpot, a jackpot start 2 designation command is transmitted. Whether the jackpot type is a 15R probability variation jackpot or a 4R probability variation jackpot is determined based on data indicating the jackpot type stored in the RAM 55 (data stored in the jackpot type buffer).

  In addition, the CPU 56 sets a value corresponding to the jackpot display time (time for notifying that the jackpot has occurred, for example, in the effect display device 9) in the timer before opening the big prize opening (step S134). Note that the pre-winner pre-opening timer is a timer for measuring the time until the big winning opening is opened during the big hit game. Specifically, at the start of the big hit game, in step S134, the time required from the start of the variable display to the start of the first round (the variable display is stopped on the effect control microcomputer 100 side and the jackpot symbol is displayed). The time before the first round is started until the start of the first round is set as the pre-opening timer. For the first and subsequent rounds, the interval time between the rounds (apparatus at the time of performing the interval effect between the rounds on the effect control microcomputer 100 side) is set as the timer before opening the big prize opening.

  Further, the CPU 56 sets the number of releases corresponding to the jackpot type in the number-of-release counter (step S135). For example, 15 times is set in the open count counter for 15R probability variation big hit, and 4 times is set for 4R probability variation big hit.

  Then, the CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the special winning opening opening pre-processing (step S305) (step S137).

  If the big hit flag is not set in step S131, the CPU 56 determines whether or not the probability variation flag is set (step S141). If it is not set, that is, if it is in the normal state, step 56 is performed. The process proceeds to S150. When the probability variation flag is set, that is, when the probability variation state is set, the value of the probability variation counter is decremented by 1 (step S142), and it is determined whether or not the value of the probability variation counter is 0 (step S143). . If not 0, the process proceeds to step S150. If it becomes 0, the probability variation flag is reset (step S144), and the process proceeds to step S150. As a result, the state is changed from the certain change state to the normal state when triggered by a predetermined number of times (50 times). In step S150, the CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the special symbol normal process (step S300) (step S150).

  FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing the jackpot end process (step S307) in the special symbol process. In the jackpot end process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the jackpot end display timer is set (step S160). If the jackpot end display timer is set, the process proceeds to step S164. If the jackpot end display timer is not set, the jackpot flag is reset (step S161), and control for transmitting a jackpot end designation command is performed (step S162). Here, in the case of 15R probability variation big hit, a big hit end 1 designation command is transmitted, and in the case of 4R probability variation big hit, a big hit end 2 designation command is transmitted. Then, a value corresponding to the display time corresponding to the time during which the big hit end display is performed in the effect display device 9 (big hit end display time) is set in the big hit end display timer (step S163), and the processing is ended.

  In step S164, 1 is subtracted from the value of the jackpot end display timer. Then, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the jackpot end display timer is 0, that is, whether or not the jackpot end display time has elapsed (step S165). If not, the process ends.

  If the big hit end display time has elapsed (Y in step S165), the CPU 56 sets the probability change flag and shifts the gaming state to the probability change state (step S167). Then, “50” is set in the probability variation counter (step S168), and the process proceeds to step S171.

  In step S171, the CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the special symbol normal process (step S300) (step S171).

  FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing an example of a program of the special symbol display control process (step S36) executed by the game control microcomputer 560 (specifically, the CPU 56) mounted on the main board 31. In the special symbol display control process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the special symbol process flag is 3 (that is, whether or not the special symbol changing process is being executed) (step S3201). If the value of the special symbol process flag is 3 (that is, if the special symbol variation processing is being executed), the CPU 56 sets the special symbol display control data for special symbol variation display for setting the special symbol display control data. Processing for setting or updating the output buffer is performed (step S3202). In this case, the CPU 56 sets or updates the special symbol display control data for performing variable symbol special display. For example, if the fluctuation speed is 1 frame / 0.2 seconds, the value of the special symbol display control data set in the output buffer is incremented by 1 every time 0.2 seconds elapse. After that, display control processing (see step S22) is executed, and a drive signal is output to the special symbol displays 8a and 8b in accordance with the contents of the output buffer for setting the special symbol display control data. The special symbol display on the special symbol indicators 8a and 8b is executed.

  If the value of the special symbol process flag is not 3, the CPU 56 checks whether the value of the special symbol process flag is 4 (that is, whether the special symbol stop process is being executed) (step S3203). ). If the value of the special symbol process flag is 4 (that is, when the special symbol stop processing is entered), the CPU 56 stops the special symbol stop symbol set in the special symbol normal processing. Processing for setting the display control data in the output buffer for setting the special symbol display control data is performed (step S3204). In this case, the CPU 56 sets special symbol display control data for stopping and displaying the special symbol stop symbol. After that, display control processing (see step S22) is executed, and a drive signal is output to the special symbol displays 8a and 8b in accordance with the contents of the output buffer for setting the special symbol display control data. The special symbol stop symbols are stopped and displayed on the special symbol indicators 8a and 8b. In addition, since the setting data is not changed after the process of step S3204 is executed and the special symbol display control data for the stop symbol display is set, the latest special symbol display control data is displayed in the display control process of step S22. Based on this, the latest stop symbol is stopped and displayed until the next variable display is started. If the value of the special symbol process flag is 2 or 3 in step S3201 (that is, if either the display result designation command transmission process or the special symbol variation process), the special symbol variation display is performed. The special symbol display control data may be updated. In this case, the display result designation command transmission process also varies in order to prevent a deviation between the variation time recognized on the game control microcomputer 560 side and the variation time recognized on the effect control microcomputer 100 side. What is necessary is just to comprise so that 1 may subtract a time timer.

  In this embodiment, the case where the special symbol display control data is set in the output buffer according to the value of the special symbol process flag is shown. In addition, an end flag may be set at the end of the variation of the special symbol. In the special symbol display control process (step S36), the CPU 56 starts updating the value of the special symbol display control data based on the start flag being set, and based on the end flag being set. Thus, special symbol display control data for stopping and displaying the stop symbol may be set.

  Next, the operation of the effect control means will be described. FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing a main process executed by the effect control microcomputer 100 (specifically, the effect control CPU 101) as effect control means mounted on the effect control board 80. The effect control CPU 101 starts executing the main process when the power is turned on. In the main processing, first, initialization processing for clearing the RAM area, setting various initial values, and initializing a timer for determining the activation control activation interval (for example, 4 ms) is performed (step S701). .

  Thereafter, the effect control CPU 101 proceeds to a loop process for monitoring a timer interrupt flag (step S702). When a timer interrupt occurs, the effect control CPU 101 sets a timer interrupt flag in the timer interrupt process. If the timer interrupt flag is set in the main process, the effect control CPU 101 clears the flag (step S703) and executes the following effect control process.

  In the effect control process, the effect control CPU 101 first analyzes the received effect control command and performs a process of setting a flag according to the received effect control command (command analysis process: step) S704).

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 performs effect control process processing (step S705). In the effect control process, the process corresponding to the current control state (effect control process flag) is selected from the processes corresponding to the control state, and display control of the effect display device 9 is executed.

  Next, the production control CPU 101 performs the fourth symbol process (step S706). In the 4th symbol process, the process corresponding to the current control state (4th symbol process flag) is selected from the processes corresponding to the control state, and the 4th symbol display areas 9c and 9d of the effect display device 9 are selected. The display control of the 4th symbol is executed.

  In step S706, control related to the display of the fourth symbol is performed in a special display layer described later.

  After step S706, a random number update process for updating a count value of a counter for generating a random number such as a jackpot symbol determining random number is executed (step S707). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S702.

  FIG. 22 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of a command reception buffer for storing the effect control command received from the game control microcomputer 560 of the main board 31. In this example, a command reception buffer of a ring buffer type capable of storing six 2-byte configuration effect control commands is used. Therefore, the command reception buffer is configured by a 12-byte area of reception command buffers 1 to 12. A command reception number counter indicating in which area the received command is stored is used. The command reception number counter takes a value from 0 to 11. The ring buffer format is not necessarily required.

  The effect control command transmitted from the game control microcomputer 560 is received by an interrupt process based on the effect control INT signal, and is stored in a buffer area formed in the RAM. In the command analysis process, it is analyzed which command (see FIGS. 9 and 10) the effect control command stored in the buffer area is. Note that the interrupt process based on the effect control INT signal is executed in preference to the timer interrupt process executed every 4 ms.

  23 and 24 are flowcharts showing a specific example of the command analysis process (step S704). The effect control command received from the main board 31 is stored in the reception command buffer, but in the command analysis process, the effect control CPU 101 confirms the content of the command stored in the command reception buffer.

  In the command analysis process, the effect control CPU 101 first checks whether or not a reception command is stored in the command reception buffer (step S611). Whether it is stored or not is determined by comparing the value of the command reception number counter with the read pointer. The case where both match is the case where the received command is not stored. When the reception command is stored in the command reception buffer, the effect control CPU 101 reads the reception command from the command reception buffer (step S612). When read, the value of the read pointer is incremented by +2 (step S613). The reason for +2 is that 2 bytes (1 command) are read at a time.

  If the received effect control command is a variation pattern command (step S614), the effect control CPU 101 stores the received variation pattern command in a variation pattern command storage area formed in the RAM (step S615). Then, a variation pattern command reception flag is set (step S616).

  If the received effect control command is a display result designation command (step S617), the effect control CPU 101 forms the received display result designation command (display result 1 designation command to display result 10 designation command) in the RAM. Is stored in the display result designation command storage area (step S618A).

  If the received effect control command is a symbol confirmation designation command (step S619), the effect control CPU 101 sets a confirmed command reception flag (step S620). The confirmation command reception flag is a flag indicating that the symbol confirmation designation command has been normally received.

  If the received effect control command is a jackpot start 1 designation command or a jackpot start 2 designation command (step S621), the effect control CPU 101 sets a jackpot start 1 designation command reception flag or a jackpot start 2 designation command reception flag ( Step S622). In this embodiment, the jackpot start 1 designation command reception flag and the jackpot start 2 designation command reception flag set in step S622 are also referred to as fanfare flags.

  If the received effect control command is a normal state background designation command (step S679), the effect control CPU 101 changes the background screen displayed on the effect display device 9 to a background screen corresponding to the normal state (for example, a blue display color). Background screen) (step S680).

  If the received effect control command is a probability change state background designation command (step S682), the effect control CPU 101 uses the background screen displayed on the effect display device 9 as a background screen (for example, a red display). Color background screen) (step S683).

  In steps S680 and S683, specifically, the background is displayed on the normal display layer described later.

  If the received effect control command is a customer waiting demonstration designation command (step S685), the effect control CPU 101 controls to display the customer waiting demonstration screen on the effect display device 9 after 30 seconds (step S687). . Specifically, a timer for measuring 30 seconds is set, and when the timer times out, a customer waiting demonstration screen is displayed on the effect display device 9. If a variation pattern command or the like is received during measurement, the timer is reset and the measurement ends. After step S687, the number of reserved memories stored in each reserved memory number storage area is cleared (step S688).

  If the received effect control command is another command, the effect control CPU 101 sets a flag according to the received effect control command or executes a process (step S691). Then, control goes to a step S611.

  FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing the effect control process (step S705) in the main process shown in FIG. In the effect control process, the effect control CPU 101 performs one of steps S800 to S807 according to the value of the effect control process flag. In each process, the following process is executed. In the effect control process, the display state of the effect display device 9 is controlled and variable display of the effect symbol is realized. However, control related to variable display of the effect symbol synchronized with the change of the first special symbol is also the second. Control related to the variable display of the effect symbol synchronized with the change of the special symbol is also executed in one effect control process. It should be noted that the variable display of the effect symbol synchronized with the variation of the first special symbol and the variable display of the effect symbol synchronized with the variation of the second special symbol may be executed by separate effect control process processing. Good. Further, in this case, it may be determined which special symbol variation display is being executed depending on which representation control process processing is performing the variation display of the representation symbol.

  Fluctuation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800): It is confirmed whether or not a variation pattern command has been received from the game control microcomputer 560. Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not the variation pattern command reception flag set in the command analysis process is set. If the change pattern command has been received, the value of the effect control process flag is changed to a value corresponding to the effect symbol change start process (step S801).

  Production symbol variation start processing (step S801): Control is performed so that the variation of the production symbol is started. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the effect symbol changing process (step S802).

  Production symbol variation processing (step S802): Controls the switching timing of each variation state (variation speed) constituting the variation pattern and monitors the end of the variation time. When the variation time ends, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the effect symbol variation stop process (step S803).

  Effect symbol variation stop processing (step S803): Control is performed to stop the variation of the effect symbol and derive and display the display result (stop symbol). Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to either the jackpot display process (step S804) or the variation pattern command reception wait process (step S800).

  Big hit display process (step S804): When the big hit is made, after the end of the variation time, the effect display device 9 is controlled to display a screen for notifying the occurrence of the big hit. For example, when a fanfare designation command for designating the start of a big hit is received, a fanfare effect is executed. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the in-round processing (step S805).

  In-round processing (step S805): Display control during round is performed. For example, if a display command indicating that the special winning opening is open is received, the display control of the number of rounds is performed.

  Post-round processing (step S806): Display control between rounds is performed. For example, when a display command after opening the big prize opening indicating that the big prize opening is after being opened (closed), an interval display is performed.

  Big hit end effect processing (step S807): In the effect display device 9, display control is performed to notify the player that the big hit game state has ended. For example, when an ending designation command for designating the end of the big hit is received, an ending effect is executed. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800).

  FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing a variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800) in the effect control process shown in FIG. In the variation pattern command reception waiting process, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the variation pattern command reception flag is set (step S811). If the variation pattern command reception flag is set, the variation pattern command reception flag is reset (step S812). Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the effect symbol variation start process (step S801) (step S813).

  FIG. 27 is a flowchart showing the effect symbol variation start process (step S801) in the effect control process shown in FIG. In the effect symbol variation start process, the effect control CPU 101 first reads a variation pattern command from the variation pattern command storage area (step S8001). Next, the CPU 101 for effect control displays the display result (stop) of the effect symbol according to the variation pattern command read in step S8001 and the data stored in the display result specifying command storage area (that is, the received display result specifying command). (Design) is determined (step S8002). That is, when the CPU 101 for effect control executes the process of step S8002, the display result of the variable display of the identification information (stop of the effect symbol) according to the variable display pattern (variation pattern) determined by the variable display pattern determination means. A display result determining means for determining (design) is realized. If a variation pattern that designates a pseudo-ream is also used and the pseudo-ream is designated by the variation pattern command, the effect control CPU 101, in step S8002, obtains a chance eye symbol (as a temporary stop symbol in the pseudo-ream) ( For example, a combination of symbols that are not reachable, such as “223” and “445”, but that is not one reach and one symbol is shifted) is also determined. The effect control CPU 101 stores data indicating the determined effect stop symbols in the effect symbol display result storage area. In step S8002, the effect control CPU 101 may determine whether or not it is a big hit based on the received variation pattern command, and may determine the stop symbol of the effect symbol based only on the variation pattern command. .

  FIG. 28 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the stop symbol of the effect symbol in the effect display device 9. In the example shown in FIG. 28, when the received display result designation command indicates “15R probability variation big hit” (when the received display result designation command is the display result 2 designation command), the effect control CPU 101 A combination of effect symbols in which the three symbols are arranged in the same odd number as the stop symbols is determined. When the received display result designation command indicates “4R probability variation big hit” (when the received display result designation command is a display result 3 designation command), the effect control CPU 101 uses 3 symbols as stop symbols. Determines the combination of performance symbols arranged with the same even number of symbols.

  In the case of “out of” (when the received display result designation command is a display result 1 designation command), a combination of effect symbols other than the above is determined. However, when a reach effect is involved, a combination of effect symbols in which two left and right symbols are aligned is determined. The combination of the three symbols derived and displayed on the effect display device 9 is the “stop symbol” of the effect symbol.

  The effect control CPU 101 extracts, for example, a random number for determining the stop symbol, and uses the stop symbol determination table in which the data indicating the combination of effect symbols and numerical values are associated with each other to generate the stop symbol of the effect symbol. decide. That is, the stop symbol is determined by selecting data indicating the combination of effect symbols corresponding to the numerical value matching the extracted random number.

  In addition, as for the effect symbols, a stop symbol reminiscent of a big hit (a combination of symbols in which the left, middle and right are all the same symbols) is called a big hit symbol. In addition, a stop symbol that recalls a loss is called a loss symbol.

  Then, the effect control CPU 101 executes a notice effect setting process for setting the notice effect (step S8003). Here, for example, whether or not the starting change is a big hit, if it is a big hit, which type of big hit, or a predetermined notice effect (for example, reliability for the big hit) Whether or not to perform step-up advancement that develops to a stage corresponding to the player, button effect that switches the effect screen by receiving an operation from the player to the operation member, etc.) is determined.

  After step S8003, the effect control CPU 101 performs a pseudo light guide plate effect setting process related to the setting of the pseudo light guide plate effect (step S8004A). The pseudo light guide plate effect is an effect that makes it appear as if the light guide plate effect is being performed by performing a display imitating the light guide plate effect using the light guide plate by the effect display device 9. Here, the light guide plate effect will be briefly described. The light guide plate effect is a gaming machine that includes a light guide plate (acrylic plate) provided on the front side (player side) of the effect display device, and a light emitting member at a position where light can enter the end surface of the light guide plate. It is a feasible effect, and by causing the light emitting member to emit light, incident light from the light emitting member that is incident from the end surface of the light guide plate is guided by the reflecting portion provided inside the light guide plate, and from the front surface. The information is displayed by emitting the light (see FIGS. 41A1 to 41A3 and 42C1 to 42C described later). That is, since the display content of the light guide plate is determined by a reflection portion provided in advance inside the light guide plate, when providing light guide plate effects of a plurality of effect patterns with different display contents, the effect pattern The number of light guide plates must be provided.

  Moreover, in this Embodiment, the pseudo | simulation light guide plate effect which displays the pseudo | simulation light guide plate image which looks similar to a light guide plate effect on the effect display apparatus 9 is performed. Specifically, as the pseudo light guide plate effect in the present embodiment, the execution timing is before the occurrence of reach and the display content (pattern) is the character, and the execution timing is after the occurrence of reach. There is provided a second pseudo light guide plate effect in which the display content (pattern) is a character such as “Intense heat”. Each pseudo light guide plate effect is configured so that the reliability for the big hit is different depending on the displayed color tone (for example, blue, red, rainbow) and the display mode (for example, enlarged display, blinking display). It will be described later.

  In step S8004, the effect control CPU 101 selects a process table corresponding to the notice effect when the change pattern or notice effect is executed (step S8004). Then, the process timer in the process data 1 of the selected process table is started (step S8005). An effect that is executed during a change such as a change in the effect pattern according to the change pattern or a notice effect may be referred to as an “in-change effect”.

  FIG. 29 is an explanatory diagram of a configuration example of the process table. The process table is a table in which process data referred to when the effect control CPU 101 executes control of the effect device is set. That is, the effect control CPU 101 controls effect devices (effect components) such as the effect display device 9 according to the process data set in the process table. The process table includes data in which a plurality of combinations of process timer set values, display control execution data, lamp control execution data, and sound number data are collected. The display control execution data includes, for example, data indicating each variation mode constituting the variation mode during the variable display time (variation time) of the variable display of the effect symbol (display of the effect display device 9 in addition to the display mode of the effect symbol) (Including other aspects of the screen) Specifically, data relating to the change of the display screen of the effect display device 9 is described. Further, the production time in the production mode is set in the process timer set value. The effect control CPU 101 refers to the process table, displays the effect design in the form set in the display control execution data for the time set in the process timer set value, and displays the character image or background displayed on the display screen. Control to display. In addition, the flashing of the light emitter is controlled in a manner set in the lamp control execution data and the sound number data, and the sound output from the speaker 27 is controlled.

  The process table shown in FIG. 29 is stored in the ROM of the effect control board 80. The process table is prepared according to the contents of each variation pattern and notice effect. If it is decided to execute the notice effect in the process of step S8004 or the like, it is not decided to select the process table in which data corresponding to the notice effect is set and to execute the notice effect. In this case, a process table for which data corresponding to the notice effect is not set is selected.

  Also, in the process table used when effect control is executed for a variation pattern with reach effect, the left symbol is stopped when a predetermined time has elapsed from the start of the variation, and the right symbol is stopped when a predetermined time further elapses. Process data indicating that it is to be displayed is set. In addition, instead of setting the symbols to be stopped and displayed in the process table, an image for displaying the symbols is synthesized and generated according to the determined stop symbol, the temporary stop symbol in the pseudo-ream and the sliding effect. May be.

  After step S8005, the effect control CPU 101 controls the effect device (effect display device 9, speaker 27, LED, and accessory) according to the contents of the process data 1 (step S8006).

  The effect display device 9 in the present embodiment can display a plurality of images in different layers. FIG. 30 is an explanatory diagram showing the concept of the layer structure in the effect display device 9 of the present embodiment. In the explanatory diagram shown in FIG. 30, display contents and display priorities are associated with each layer (display layer). As shown in the figure, in the present embodiment, as a layer, the display contents are displayed in a normal effect image (normal effect (display of the fourth symbol or small symbol, and the effect excluding the pseudo light guide plate effect) or background. Normal display layer, the display content is a pseudo light guide plate image (image displayed in the pseudo light guide plate effect), and the display content is the fourth and small symbols (reach effect). A special display layer is provided which is an effect design displayed at a smaller timing than usual at a predetermined timing. The display priority is as follows: special display layer> pseudo light guide plate display layer> normal display layer. That is, when the pseudo light guide plate effect is executed during execution of the normal effect, the pseudo light guide plate image is displayed with priority over the normal effect image, and the fourth symbol or the small symbol is displayed during execution of the pseudo light guide plate effect. When the display is executed, the fourth symbol or the small symbol is displayed with priority over the pseudo light guide plate image. The pseudo light guide plate effect display layer includes a base and 1 to 5 layers, and the display priority is 5 layers> 4 layers> 3 layers> 2 layers> 1 layer> base. Specific display contents in the pseudo light guide plate effect display layer will be described later.

  In step S8006, as control of the effect display device 9, specifically, control of displaying the effect symbol and the notice effect in the normal display layer and displaying a small symbol image in the special display layer is performed.

  After step S8006, the effect control CPU 101 sets a value corresponding to the variation time specified by the variation pattern command in the variation time timer (step S8007). Then, the effect control CPU 101 sets the value of the effect control process flag to a value corresponding to the effect symbol changing process (step S802) (step S8008).

  FIG. 31 is a flowchart showing the pseudo light guide plate effect setting process. In the pseudo light guide plate effect setting process, the effect control CPU 101 first performs a first pseudo light guide plate effect execution lottery for determining whether or not to execute the first pseudo light guide plate effect (step S2801). Specifically, the presence / absence of execution of the first pseudo light guide plate effect is determined using the first pseudo light guide plate effect execution lottery table shown in FIG.

  FIG. 32 (A1) is an explanatory view showing a first pseudo light guide plate effect execution lottery table. The first pseudo light guide plate effect execution lottery table shown in FIG. 32 (A1) executes the first pseudo light guide plate effect according to the variation pattern (SP reach big hit, normal reach big hit, SP reach out, normal reach out, non reach reach out). In the example shown in FIG. 32 (A1), the ratio of assigned determination values is shown in order to simplify the description. The effect control CPU 101 extracts, for example, a random number for the first pseudo light guide plate effect execution lottery, and determines the determination item to which a determination value matching the extracted random number is assigned.

  For example, when the variation pattern is a SP reach big hit, it is determined that executing the first pseudo light guide plate effect at a rate of 90% does not execute the first pseudo light guide plate effect at a rate of 10%. . For example, when the fluctuation pattern is a normal reach big hit, it is determined that the first pseudo light guide plate effect is executed at a rate of 70% and the first pseudo light guide plate effect is not executed at a rate of 30%. The

  Further, for example, when the variation pattern is out of SP reach, it is determined that the first pseudo light guide plate effect is executed at a rate of 50% and the first pseudo light guide plate effect is not executed at a rate of 50%. Is done. Further, for example, when the fluctuation pattern is out of the normal reach, it is determined that the first pseudo light guide plate effect is executed at a rate of 30% and the first pseudo light guide plate effect is not executed at a rate of 70%. The Further, for example, when the variation pattern is non-reach, it is determined that the first pseudo light guide plate effect is executed at a rate of 10% and the first pseudo light guide plate effect is not executed at a rate of 90%. Is done.

  After step S2801, the CPU 101 for effect control determines whether or not to execute the first pseudo light guide plate effect (step S2802). If not, the process proceeds to step S2807. When it is determined to execute, the effect control CPU 101 performs a first color tone determination lottery for determining the color tone of the first pseudo light guide plate effect to be executed (step S2802). Specifically, the color tone of the first pseudo light guide plate effect is determined using the first color tone determination lottery table shown in FIG.

  FIG. 32 (B1) is an explanatory diagram showing a first color tone determination lottery table. The first color tone determination lottery table shown in FIG. 32 (B1) corresponds to the color tone of the first pseudo light guide plate effect according to the variation pattern (SP reach big hit, normal reach big hit, SP reach out, normal reach out, non-reach out). Although the determination value is assigned, in the example shown in FIG. 32 (B1), the ratio of the assigned determination value is shown in order to simplify the description. The effect control CPU 101 extracts, for example, a random number for the first color tone determination lottery, and determines the determination item to which a determination value matching the extracted random number is assigned.

  For example, when the variation pattern is a SP reach big hit, “blue” is determined at a rate of 10%, “red” is determined at a rate of 30%, and “rainbow” is determined at a rate of 60%. For example, when the fluctuation pattern is a normal reach big hit, “blue” is determined at a rate of 20%, “red” is determined at a rate of 30%, and “rainbow” is determined at a rate of 50%.

  For example, when the variation pattern is out of SP reach, “blue” is determined at a rate of 30% and “red” is determined at a rate of 70%. Further, for example, when the variation pattern is out of normal reach, “blue” is determined at a rate of 50%, and “red” is determined at a rate of 50%. For example, when the variation pattern is non-reach, “blue” is determined at a rate of 80%, and “red” is determined at a rate of 20%.

  Thus, in this embodiment, the reliability for the big hit indicated by the color tone of the first pseudo light guide plate effect is “rainbow”> “red”> “blue”. In the present embodiment, only when the variable display result is a big hit, “rainbow” can be selected as the color tone of the first pseudo light guide plate effect, that is, the first color tone is “rainbow”. When the pseudo light guide plate effect is generated, it is informed that it will be a big hit. Note that “rainbow” may be selectable as the color tone of the first pseudo light guide plate effect even when the variable display result is out of sync.

  After step S2803, the effect control CPU 101 performs a first effect pattern determination lottery for determining the effect pattern in the first pseudo light guide plate effect to be executed (step S2804). Specifically, the effect pattern of the first pseudo light guide plate effect is determined using the first effect pattern determination lottery table shown in FIG. 32 (C1).

  FIG. 32 (C1) is an explanatory diagram showing a first effect pattern determination lottery table. In the first effect pattern determination lottery table shown in FIG. 32 (C1), a determination value corresponding to the effect pattern of the first pseudo light guide plate effect is assigned according to the color tone (blue, red, rainbow). In the example shown in (C1), in order to simplify the description, the ratio of the assigned determination value is shown. The effect control CPU 101 extracts, for example, a first effect pattern determination lottery random number, and determines the determination item to which a determination value that matches the extracted random number is assigned.

  For example, when the color tone is “blue”, PT1 is produced as a production pattern at a rate of 40%, PT2 is produced as a production pattern at a rate of 30%, and PT3 is produced as a production pattern at a rate of 20%. PT4 is determined for each pattern. For example, when the color tone is “red”, any one of PT1 to PT4 is determined as the effect pattern at a rate of 25%. Also, for example, when the color tone is “rainbow”, PT1 is an effect pattern at a rate of 10%, PT2 is an effect pattern at a rate of 20%, PT3 is an effect pattern at a rate of 30%, and a rate of 40%. Thus, PT4 is determined as the production pattern.

  Thereby, the reliability with respect to the big hit which the production | presentation pattern in a 1st pseudo | simulation light-guide plate effect is PT4> PT3> PT2> PT1.

  In the present embodiment, as described above, when the first pseudo light guide plate effect having a color tone of “rainbow” is generated, it is notified that a big hit has occurred. In the first pseudo light guide plate effect, the effect pattern selection ratio may be equal, or a fixed effect pattern (for example, PT4) may be selected at all times.

  Thus, in this Embodiment, PT1-PT4 are provided as an effect pattern of a pseudo light guide plate effect. Here, the effect pattern of the pseudo light guide plate effect indicates a transition of the image data pattern reproduced in the pseudo light guide plate effect. The image data pattern is obtained by patterning image data in the pseudo light guide plate effect for each display mode. For example, as the image data patterns, data patterns A to D described later in FIGS. 33 to 36 are provided. In the present embodiment, for these four types of image data patterns, pseudo light guide plate effect types (patterns to be displayed) and color combinations (blue characters, red characters, iridescent characters, blue characters, red characters) Image data for each character (rainbow character) is provided. Details of the image data will be described later with reference to FIG.

  Specifically, as shown in FIG. 32D, PT1 reproduces the image data of data pattern A as image data corresponding to frames 0 to 15, and data pattern C as image data corresponding to frames 16 to 80. It is an effect pattern which shows reproducing the image data. PT2 is an effect pattern indicating that image data of data pattern B is reproduced as image data corresponding to frames 0 to 15, and image data of data pattern C is reproduced as image data corresponding to frames 16 to 80. is there. PT3 is an effect pattern indicating that image data of data pattern A is reproduced as image data corresponding to frames 0 to 15 and image data of data pattern D is reproduced as image data corresponding to frames 16 to 80. is there. PT4 is an effect pattern indicating that image data of data pattern B is reproduced as image data corresponding to frames 0 to 15, and image data of data pattern D is reproduced as image data corresponding to frames 16 to 80. is there.

  Here, specific examples of the data patterns A to D will be described with reference to FIGS. In each data pattern shown in FIGS. 33 to 36, the display mode (opacity, enlargement ratio) of the image corresponding to the frame is shown for each layer. “Opacity” is a numerical value representing the degree to which an image superimposed on the next lower layer can be seen through. For example, if the value is “0”, it means that the display image of the corresponding layer is not visible and the image superimposed on the layer below is seen through, and if it is “100” , Only the display image of the corresponding layer can be seen, and the image superimposed on the next lower layer cannot be seen. The “magnification ratio” represents the size of an image to be displayed with the predetermined size of the original image being “100”. For example, if the value is “50”, it indicates that the image is displayed at half the size of the original image. If the value is “270”, the size of the original image is displayed. This indicates that an image is displayed with a size 2.7 times as large as that of the image.

  Note that “↓” in the data pattern indicates the same value as the value immediately above. For example, it is shown that the opacity of the base in the frames 5 to 15 of the data pattern A is “50”.

  In addition, “(UP)” in the data pattern indicates that the value is higher than the value of the previous frame. If “(UP)” is indicated in consecutive frames, the difference is equal. It shows that the value rises at. For example, the base enlargement ratios of the data pattern B in the frames 6 to 12 are respectively shown as values that increase by an equal difference between “110” in the frame 5 and “270” in the frame 13. That is, the difference between the enlargement rates of the base frames in the frames 6 to 12 of the data pattern B is “20”, the enlargement rate of the frame 6 is “130”, the enlargement rate of the frame 7 is “150”, and the frame 8 The enlargement ratio of the frame 9 is “170”, the enlargement ratio of the frame 9 is “190”, the enlargement ratio of the frame 10 is “210”, the enlargement ratio of the frame 11 is “230”, and the enlargement ratio of the frame 12 is “250” It is shown.

  In addition, “(DOWN)” in the data pattern indicates that the value is lower than the value of the previous frame. If “(DOWN)” is indicated in consecutive frames, the difference is equal. It shows that the value falls at. For example, the opacity of the base in the frame 6 to the frame 12 of the data pattern B is shown as a value that decreases by an equal difference between “100” of the frame 5 and “0” of the frame 13. That is, the difference in opacity between the frames 6 to 12 of the data pattern B is “12.5”, the opacity of the frame 6 is “87.5”, and the opacity of the frame 7 is “75”. ”, The opacity of frame 8 is“ 62.5 ”, the opacity of frame 9 is“ 50 ”, the opacity of frame 10 is“ 37.5 ”, the opacity of frame 11 is“ 25 ”, and the opacity of frame 12 is The transparency is shown to be “12.5”.

  Further, the image data in the present embodiment is such that 30 frames of data per second are developed in the frame memory by the VDP 109 and displayed on the effect display device 9 during reproduction.

  Moreover, the pseudo light guide plate image displayed in the pseudo light guide plate effect in the present embodiment has a lower resolution than the effect image of the normal effect. Specifically, the resolution of the effect image of the normal effect is 96 ppi (pixel per inch), while the resolution of the pseudo light guide plate image is 48 ppi. The resolution of the pseudo light guide plate image is a value (approximate value) that matches the value of the resolution of the image displayed on the light guide plate (that is, the resolution of a picture (including characters and characters) processed on the acrylic plate). Or the same value). If the gaming machine includes a light guide plate and can execute the light guide plate effect and the pseudo light guide plate effect, an image with a resolution matching the resolution of the image displayed on the mounted light guide plate is displayed. Can be displayed.

  In addition, although a common pattern (character, character) according to the pseudo light guide plate effect type is displayed on the base and the first to fifth layers, the size of the original image displayed in the pseudo light guide plate effect is displayed. The (magnification of 100) is different for each layer. Specifically, “size of image displayed in one layer <size of image displayed in two layers <size of image displayed in three layers <size of image displayed in four layers <display in five layers” "The size of the image to be". Therefore, even when the enlargement ratio is the same value in the same frame, the actually displayed image is different for each layer. For example, in the frame 59 of the data pattern D shown in FIG. 36, the enlargement ratio in the first layer to the fifth layer is “124”, which is the same value, but the size of the original image is different. The size is larger as the layer has a higher display priority (see FIG. 45).

  Further, in the frame where the display is performed on the base and the first layer, the pattern is displayed at a position hidden on the pattern displayed on the first layer on the base. That is, in the frame in which the display is performed on the base and the first layer, the display of the base is visible to the player only when the opacity of the first layer is low.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, “blue”, “red”, and “rainbow” are provided as the color tones of the pseudo light guide plate effect. Of the display layers for the pseudo light guide plate effect, When displaying a pseudo light guide plate image (character, character) in a plurality of layers, the saturation of the displayed pseudo light guide plate image is different for each layer. For example, when the set color tone is “blue”, the higher the display priority, the higher the saturation and the higher the vividness of the blue. When the display layer increases or decreases in the middle frame (for example, data patterns B and D), the color in the layer with the highest display priority among the layers used for display is always constant. Specifically, the saturation is blue A> blue B> blue C, and in the next frame in which blue A is displayed on the first layer and blue B is displayed on the base, two layers are displayed. When started, the color of the pseudo light guide plate image in the layer with the highest visibility is obtained by switching the display color of the second layer to blue A, the display of the first layer to blue B, and the base display to blue C. Is always constant.

  FIG. 33A is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of data pattern A. FIG. As described above, the data pattern A is a data pattern of image data corresponding to the frames 0 to 15. As shown in FIG. 33A, in the data pattern A, display of the base and one layer is started in the frame 5, and the opacity of the one layer is repeatedly increased and decreased in the frames 5 to 15. Thereby, when the image data of the data pattern A is used, it can appear as if the pseudo light guide plate image is blinkingly displayed. As shown in the figure, when the image data of the data pattern A is used, only the base and one layer display is performed.

  FIG. 33B is an explanatory diagram of a specific example of the data pattern B. As described above, the data pattern B is a data pattern of image data corresponding to the frames 0 to 15. As shown in FIG. 33 (B), in data pattern B, base display starts at frame 0, and the base opacity and enlargement ratio at frames 0 to 5 increase. As a result, when the image data of the data pattern B is used, the display is started while being enlarged, and the display can be made to become darker. As described above, when the image data of the data pattern B is used, the pseudo light guide plate effect is started from a stronger impression than when the image data of the data pattern A is used. In addition, when the display of the first layer and the second layer is started in the frame 6, the pseudo light guide plate effect display is performed in the three layers.

  FIG. 34 is an explanatory diagram of a specific example of the data pattern C. As described above, the data pattern C is a data pattern of image data corresponding to the frames 16 to 80. As shown in FIG. 34, in the data pattern C, the opacity of one layer in the frames 24 to 35 and the frames 50 to 75 is repeatedly increased and decreased. Thereby, when the image data of the data pattern C is used, it can be seen as if the pseudo light guide plate image is blinkingly displayed. As shown in FIG. 34, in the data pattern C, the opacity of one layer in the frames 75 to 80 decreases and the enlargement ratio increases. Thereby, when the image data of the data pattern C is used, the pseudo light guide plate image can appear to fade out. As shown in the figure, when image data of the data pattern C is used, only the base and one layer display is performed.

  35 and 36 are explanatory diagrams showing specific examples of the data pattern D. FIG. As described above, the data pattern D is a data pattern of image data corresponding to the frames 16-80. As shown in FIGS. 35 and 36, in the data pattern D, only the base and the first layer are displayed in the frames 16 to 29, the two-layer display is started in the frame 30, and the three layers are displayed in the frame 39. Display is started, display of four layers is started at frame 48, and display of five layers is started at frame 59. As a result, the display of the higher priority layers is started sequentially. In the data pattern D, the opacity of each layer increases and decreases in the frames 22 to 25, the frames 30 to 35, the frames 38 to 43, the frames 48 to 53, and the frames 60 to 68. It is repeating. Thereby, when the image data of the data pattern D is used, it can appear as if the pseudo light guide plate image is blinkingly displayed. As shown in FIG. 36, in the data pattern D, in the frames 75 to 80, the opacity of the first to fifth layers decreases and the enlargement ratio increases. Thereby, when the image data of the data pattern D is used, the pseudo light guide plate image can appear to fade out.

  After step S2804, the effect control CPU 101 sets the pseudo light guide plate effect by storing the lottery results of the first color tone determination lottery and the first effect pattern determination lottery (step S2805), and the first pseudo light guide plate effect. Is set (step S2806), and the process proceeds to step S2807.

  In step S2807, the effect control CPU 101 determines whether or not it is reach variation (step S2807). If it is not reach variation (that is, non-reach deviation), the pseudo light guide plate effect setting process is terminated. . In the case of reach variation, a second pseudo light guide plate effect execution lottery for determining whether or not to execute the second pseudo light guide plate effect is performed (step S2808). Specifically, whether or not to execute the second pseudo light guide plate effect is determined using the second pseudo light guide plate effect execution lottery table shown in FIG. 32 (A2).

  FIG. 32 (A2) is an explanatory view showing a second pseudo light guide plate effect execution lottery table. The second pseudo light guide plate effect execution lottery table shown in FIG. 32 (A2) corresponds to whether or not the second pseudo light guide plate effect is executed according to the variation pattern (SP reach big hit, normal reach big hit, SP reach out, normal reach out). In the example shown in FIG. 32 (A2), the ratio of the assigned determination value is shown in order to simplify the description. The effect control CPU 101 extracts, for example, a random number for the second pseudo light guide plate effect execution lottery, and determines the determination item to which a determination value that matches the extracted random number is assigned.

  For example, when the variation pattern is a SP reach big hit, it is determined that the second pseudo light guide plate effect is executed at a rate of 95% and the second pseudo light guide plate effect is not executed at a rate of 5%. . Further, for example, when the fluctuation pattern is a normal reach big hit, it is determined that the second pseudo light guide plate effect is executed at a rate of 75% and the second pseudo light guide plate effect is not executed at a rate of 25%. The

  Further, for example, when the variation pattern is out of SP reach, it is determined that the first pseudo light guide plate effect is executed at a rate of 45% and the second pseudo light guide plate effect is not executed at a rate of 55%. Is done. Further, for example, when the fluctuation pattern is out of normal reach, it is determined that the second pseudo light guide plate effect is executed at a rate of 25% and the second pseudo light guide plate effect is not executed at a rate of 75%. The

  In the present embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 32A1 and 32A2, in the case of a big hit, the second pseudo light guide plate effect is executed at a higher rate than the first pseudo light guide plate effect. , The first pseudo light guide plate effect is executed at a higher rate than the second pseudo light guide plate effect when they are out of place. Thereby, the reliability with respect to the occurrence of the big hit is first pseudo light guide plate effect <second pseudo light guide plate effect. The first pseudo light guide plate effect may have a higher reliability for the big hit than the second pseudo light guide plate effect, or the first pseudo light guide plate effect and the second pseudo light guide plate effect may be reliable for the big hit. The structure which does not vary degree may be sufficient.

  After step S2808, the effect control CPU 101 determines whether or not to execute the second pseudo light guide plate effect (step S2809), and if not, ends the pseudo light guide plate effect setting process. To do. When it is determined to execute, the second color tone determination lottery for determining the color tone of the second pseudo light guide plate effect to be executed is performed (step S2810). Specifically, the color tone of the second pseudo light guide plate effect is determined using the second color tone determination lottery table shown in FIG. 32 (B2).

  FIG. 32 (B2) is an explanatory diagram showing a second color tone determination lottery table. In the second color tone determination lottery table shown in FIG. 32 (B2), a determination value corresponding to the color tone of the second pseudo light guide plate effect is assigned according to the variation pattern (SP reach big hit, normal reach big hit, SP reach out, normal reach out) However, in the example shown in FIG. 32 (B2), the ratio of the assigned determination value is shown in order to simplify the description. The effect control CPU 101 extracts, for example, a random number for the second color tone determination lottery, and determines the determination item to which a determination value matching the extracted random number is assigned.

  For example, when the variation pattern is a SP reach big hit, “blue” is determined at a rate of 5%, “red” is determined at a rate of 30%, and “rainbow” is determined at a rate of 65%. For example, when the fluctuation pattern is a normal reach big hit, “blue” is determined at a rate of 15%, “red” is determined at a rate of 30%, and “rainbow” is determined at a rate of 55%.

  For example, when the variation pattern is out of SP reach, “blue” is determined at a rate of 35% and “red” is determined at a rate of 65%. For example, when the variation pattern is out of normal reach, “blue” is determined at a rate of 55%, and “red” is determined at a rate of 45%.

  Thus, in the present embodiment, the reliability for the big hit indicated by the color tone of the second pseudo light guide plate effect is “rainbow”> “red”> “blue”. Further, in the present embodiment, only when the variable display result is a big hit, the “rainbow” can be selected as the color tone of the second pseudo light guide plate effect, that is, the second color tone is “rainbow”. When the pseudo light guide plate effect is generated, it is informed that it will be a big hit. Note that “rainbow” may be selected as the color tone of the second pseudo light guide plate effect even when the variable display result is out of place.

  After step S2810, the effect control CPU 101 performs a second effect pattern determination lottery for determining the effect pattern in the second pseudo light guide plate effect to be executed (step S2811). Specifically, the effect pattern of the second pseudo light guide plate effect is determined using the second effect pattern determination lottery table shown in FIG.

  FIG. 32 (C2) is an explanatory diagram showing a second effect pattern determination lottery table. In the second effect pattern determination lottery table shown in FIG. 32 (C2), determination values corresponding to the effect pattern of the second pseudo light guide plate effect are assigned according to the color tone (blue, red, rainbow). In the example shown in (C2), in order to simplify the description, the ratio of the assigned determination value is shown. The effect control CPU 101 extracts, for example, a random number for the second effect pattern determination lottery, and determines the determination item to which a determination value that matches the extracted random number is assigned.

  For example, when the color tone is “blue”, PT1 is produced as a production pattern at a rate of 45%, PT2 is produced as a production pattern at a rate of 35%, and PT3 is produced as a production pattern at a rate of 15%. PT4 is determined for each pattern. For example, when the color tone is “red”, PT1 or PT2 is determined as an effect pattern at a rate of 20%, and PT3 or PT4 is determined as an effect pattern at a rate of 30%. Also, for example, when the color tone is “rainbow”, PT1 is an effect pattern at a rate of 5%, PT2 is an effect pattern at a rate of 15%, PT3 is an effect pattern at a rate of 35%, and a rate of 45%. Thus, PT4 is determined as the production pattern.

  Thereby, the reliability with respect to the big hit which the production | presentation pattern in a 2nd pseudo | simulation light guide plate effect | present is PT4> PT3> PT2> PT1. In the present embodiment, the effect pattern in the first pseudo light guide plate effect and the effect pattern in the second pseudo light guide plate effect are common (PT1 to PT4), but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, it is good also as having PT1-PT4 as an effect pattern in the 1st pseudo light guide plate effect, and having PT5-PT12 as an effect pattern in the 2nd pseudo light guide plate effect.

  In the present embodiment, as described above, when the second pseudo light guide plate effect having a color tone of “rainbow” is generated, it is notified that a big hit is made. In the second pseudo light guide plate effect, the effect pattern selection ratio may be equal, or a fixed effect pattern (for example, PT4) may be selected at all times.

  After step S2811, the effect control CPU 101 sets the pseudo light guide plate effect by storing the lottery results of the second color tone determination lottery and the second effect pattern determination lottery (step S2812), and the second pseudo light guide plate effect. Is set (step S2813), and the pseudo light guide plate effect setting process is terminated.

  FIG. 37 is a flowchart showing the effect symbol variation in-process (step S802) in the effect control process. In the effect symbol variation processing, the effect control CPU 101 determines whether or not the first effect flag is set (step S3701), and if it is not set, the process proceeds to step S3706. If set, the effect control CPU 101 determines whether or not it is the first pseudo light guide plate effect execution timing T1 (step S3702). In the present embodiment, specifically, the first pseudo light guide plate effect execution timing T1 is 1 second after the start of fluctuation, but any timing is the first pseudo-lighting timing before the reach occurs. It is good also as light guide plate production execution timing T1. For example, the first pseudo light guide plate effect execution timing T1 may be different for each variation pattern, or may be the same. Further, the first pseudo light guide plate effect can be executed at a plurality of timings before reach, and the reliability may be different depending on the execution timing of the first pseudo light guide plate effect. If it is not the first pseudo light guide plate effect execution timing T1, the process proceeds to step S3706.

  At the first pseudo light guide plate effect execution timing T1, the effect control CPU 101 starts mask display for masking the display content (normal effect image) displayed on the normal display layer (step S3703). Thereby, the visibility of a normal effect image is reduced. In the present embodiment, a mask that reduces the visibility of the normal performance image by 70% is applied, but this is not a limitation, and the mask is reduced by 100% (that is, blacked out and cannot be viewed). It may be a thing. Thereafter, the effect control CPU 101 starts executing the first pseudo light guide plate effect based on the set effect pattern and color tone (step S3704). Specifically, the effect control CPU 101 refers to the image data table shown in FIG. 38, selects image data for each frame, and causes the VDP 109 to display an image using the image data.

  FIG. 38 is an explanatory diagram showing an image data table. The image data table shown in FIG. 38 is for each pseudo light guide plate effect type (first pseudo light guide plate effect, first pseudo light guide plate effect), color tone (blue, red, rainbow), and effect pattern (PT1 to PT4). The selected image data is associated. In the present embodiment, 24 types of image data are provided. Specifically, gd11 to gd16 are the image data of the data pattern A, gd21 to gd26 are the image data of the data pattern B, gd31 to gd36 are the image data of the data pattern C, and the image of the data pattern D As data, gd41 to gd46 are provided. In addition, parentheses in “image data for each frame” in the drawing indicate which data pattern the image data is. For example, gd11 (A) indicates image data of the data pattern A, and gd42 (D) indicates image data of the data pattern D.

  gd11, 21, 31, and 41 are image data when the pseudo light guide plate effect type is the first pseudo light guide plate effect (that is, the display content is a character) and the color tone is blue. gd12, 22, 32, and 42 are image data when the pseudo light guide plate effect type is the first pseudo light guide plate effect (that is, the display content is a character) and the color tone is red. gd13, 23, 33, and 43 are image data when the pseudo light guide plate effect type is the first pseudo light guide plate effect (that is, the display content is a character) and the color tone is rainbow.

  gd14, 24, 34, and 44 are image data when the pseudo light guide plate effect type is the second pseudo light guide plate effect (that is, the display content is a character such as “hot heat”) and the color tone is blue. . gd15, 25, 35, and 45 are image data when the pseudo light guide plate effect type is the second pseudo light guide plate effect (that is, the display content is a character such as “hot heat”) and the color tone is red. . gd16, 26, 36, and 46 are image data when the pseudo light guide plate effect type is the second pseudo light guide plate effect (that is, the display content is a character such as “hot heat”) and the color tone is rainbow. .

  After step S3704, the effect control CPU 101 resets the first effect flag (step S3705), and proceeds to step S3706.

  In step S3706, the effect control CPU 101 determines whether or not the second effect flag is set (step S3706). If it is not set, the process proceeds to step S8101. If set, the effect control CPU 101 determines whether or not it is the second pseudo light guide plate effect execution timing T2 (step S3707). In the present embodiment, specifically, one second after the occurrence of the reach is set as the second pseudo light guide plate effect execution timing T2, but any timing can be used as long as the timing is after the reach has occurred. It may be the second pseudo light guide plate effect execution timing T2. For example, the second pseudo light guide plate effect execution timing T2 may be different for each variation pattern, or may be the same. Further, the second pseudo light guide plate effect can be executed at a plurality of timings after the reach, and the reliability may be different depending on the execution timing of the second pseudo light guide plate effect. If it is not the second pseudo light guide plate effect execution timing T2, the process proceeds to step S8101.

  If it is the second pseudo light guide plate effect execution timing T2, the effect control CPU 101 starts mask display for masking the display content (normal effect) displayed on the normal display layer (step S3708). Thereby, the visibility of a normal effect is reduced. After that, the effect control CPU 101 starts executing the second pseudo light guide plate effect based on the set effect pattern and color tone (step S3709). Specifically, the effect control CPU 101 uses the image data table shown in FIG. 38 to select image data to be displayed as the second pseudo light guide plate effect, and causes the VDP 109 to display an image using the image data.

  After step S3709, the effect control CPU 101 resets the second effect flag (step S3710), and proceeds to step S8101.

  Then, the production control CPU 101 subtracts 1 from the value of the process timer (step S8101) and subtracts 1 from the value of the variable time timer (step S8102). When the process timer times out (step S8103), the process data is switched. That is, the process timer setting value set next in the process table is set in the process timer (step S8104). Further, the control state for the rendering device is changed based on the display control execution data, lamp control execution data, and sound number data set next (step S8105).

  In step S8105, as control of the effect display device 9, specifically, control of displaying an effect symbol or a notice effect in the normal display layer, or displaying a small symbol in the special display layer is performed.

  If the variation time timer has timed out (step S8111), the effect control CPU 101 updates the value of the effect control process flag to a value corresponding to the effect symbol variation stop process (step S803) (step S8112).

  By executing steps S3701 to S3710, in the present embodiment, the pseudo light guide plate effect can be executed at a plurality of timings. For example, FIG. 39 is a timing chart showing the execution timing of the pseudo light guide plate effect in the present embodiment. In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 39, the first pseudo light guide plate effect can be executed from the first pseudo light guide plate effect execution timing T1 before the reach timing Tr when the reach occurs, and the reach timing Tr The second pseudo light guide plate effect can be executed from the later second pseudo light guide plate effect execution timing T2. Thereby, the pseudo light guide plate effect can be executed before and after reach, and the interest can be improved.

  FIG. 40 is a flowchart showing the effect symbol variation stop process (step S803) in the effect control process. In the effect symbol variation stop process, first, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not a stop symbol display flag indicating that the stop symbol of the effect symbol is being displayed is set (step S861). If the stop symbol display flag is set, the effect control CPU 101 proceeds to step S867. In this embodiment, as will be described later, when a jackpot symbol is displayed as a stop symbol of the effect symbol, a stop symbol display flag is set in step S866. When the fanfare effect is executed, the stop symbol display flag is reset in step S868. Accordingly, the fact that the stop symbol display flag is set in step S861 is a stage in which the fanfare effect has not yet been executed although the jackpot symbol has been stopped and displayed, so the process of displaying the stop symbol of the effect symbol in step S862 Without moving to step S867.

  If the stop symbol display flag is not set, the production control CPU 101 performs control to stop and display the stored stop symbol (disconnected symbol or jackpot symbol) (step S862). The production control CPU 101 may perform control to stop and display the production symbol in response to the reception of the symbol confirmation designation command from the game control microcomputer 560.

  When the big hit symbol is displayed in step S862 (Y in step S863), the effect control CPU 101 sets the stop symbol display flag (step S866) and the fanfare flag (big hit start 1 designation command reception flag or big hit start 2). It is confirmed whether or not the (specified command reception flag) has been set (step S867). When the fanfare flag is set (Y in step S867), the effect control CPU 101 resets the stop symbol display flag (step S868) and selects process data corresponding to the fanfare effect (step S869). Then, the process timer is started (step S870).

  Then, the effect control CPU 101 sets the value of the effect control process flag to a value corresponding to the jackpot display process (step S804) (step S871).

  When the big hit symbol is not displayed in step S863 (that is, when the off symbol is displayed: N in step S863), the presentation control CPU 101 resets a predetermined flag (step S864). For example, the effect control CPU 101 resets the command reception flag. The effect control CPU 101 may reset the command reception flag immediately after being referred to in the effect control process or the fourth symbol process (for example, immediately after confirming the variation pattern command reception flag, the variation pattern command The reception flag may be reset).

  Then, the effect control CPU 101 updates the value of the effect control process flag to a value corresponding to the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800) (step S865).

  Next, a specific display example of the pseudo light guide plate effect will be described with reference to FIGS. First, a display example in the pseudo light guide plate effect will be described using FIGS. 41 and 42 in comparison with a display example of the light guide plate effect. 41 and 42 are explanatory diagrams showing a display example in the light guide plate effect and a display example in the pseudo light guide plate effect. In the explanatory view shown in FIG. 41, display examples of light guide plate effects are shown in FIGS. 41 (A1) to (A3), and display examples of pseudo light guide plate effects are shown in FIGS. 41 (B1) to (B3). . In the explanatory view shown in FIG. 42, display examples of light guide plate effects are shown in FIGS. 42 (C1) to (C3), and display examples of pseudo light guide plate effects are shown in FIGS. 42 (D1) to (D3). ing.

  First, a specific example of the light guide plate effect will be described. 41 (A1) to (A3) and the game machines shown in FIGS. 42 (C1) to (C3) include an effect display device 9, a light guide plate X disposed on the player side of the effect display device 9, and the guide. A light emitting member (not shown) is provided at a position where light can enter the end face of the optical plate X. The light guide plate X is provided with a reflecting portion that displays display information by guiding incident light from a light emitting member that has entered the light guide plate X from an end surface thereof and emitting the light from the front surface. In this gaming machine, by causing the light emitting member to emit light, incident light from the light emitting member that is incident on the inside from the end surface of the light guide plate X is guided by the reflecting portion and emitted from the front surface, thereby displaying the display information. Light plate effects can be executed.

  For example, FIGS. 41A1 to 41A3 are explanatory diagrams illustrating a specific example of a light guide plate effect that displays a character as display information. The light guide plate X shown here is provided with a reflecting portion so that a character can be displayed in the light guide plate effect. As shown in FIG. 41 (A1), the effect display device 9 displays a variation of the effect symbol. At this time, the effect symbol is displayed as a small symbol (an effect symbol displayed in a size smaller than normal), but is not limited to this, and an effect symbol of a normal size is displayed. It may be. Then, when it is time to perform the light guide plate effect, as shown in FIG. 41 (A2), by masking the display image of the effect display device 9, it is easy for the player to visually recognize the display content in the light guide plate effect. To do. Thereafter, as shown in FIG. 41 (A3), the light emitting member emits light, and the character is displayed on the light guide plate X as display information. At this time, since the light guide plate X is provided on the player side with respect to the effect display device 9, the visibility of the small symbols is reduced by the display of the light guide plate X.

  Further, for example, FIGS. 42C1 to 42C3 are explanatory diagrams illustrating a specific example of a light guide plate effect that displays characters such as “extreme heat” as display information. The light guide plate X shown here is provided with a reflective portion so that characters such as “extreme heat” can be displayed in the light guide plate effect. As shown in FIG. 42 (C1), the effect display device 9 displays the variation of the effect symbol. At this time, the effect design is displayed as a small design, but is not limited to this, and an effect design of a normal size may be displayed. When it is time to perform the light guide plate effect, as shown in FIG. 42 (C2), by masking the display image of the effect display device 9, it is easy for the player to visually recognize the display content in the light guide plate effect. To do. Thereafter, as shown in FIG. 42 (C3), the light emitting member emits light, and characters such as “extreme heat” are displayed on the light guide plate X. At this time, since the light guide plate X is provided on the player side with respect to the effect display device 9, the visibility of the small symbols is reduced by the display of the light guide plate X.

  Next, a specific example of the pseudo light guide plate effect will be described. For example, FIGS. 41B1 to 41B3 are explanatory diagrams illustrating a specific example of the first pseudo light guide plate effect in which a character is displayed as a pseudo light guide plate image. As shown in FIG. 41 (B1), the effect display device 9 displays the variation of the effect symbol. At this time, the effect symbol is displayed as a small symbol. Then, when the first pseudo light guide plate effect execution timing T1 is reached, as shown in FIG. 41 (B2), the display image of the normal display layer in the effect display device 9 is masked to provide the first pseudo light guide plate effect. This makes it easier for the player to visually recognize the displayed content. Thereafter, as shown in FIG. 41 (B3), the character is displayed on the effect display device 9 as a pseudo light guide plate image. At this time, the special display layer on which the small symbols are displayed has higher display priority than the pseudo light guide plate effect display layer on which the pseudo light guide plate image is displayed (see FIG. 30), and therefore has priority over the pseudo light guide plate image. Thus, a small symbol is displayed. Therefore, a pseudo light guide plate effect similar to the light guide plate effect can be executed without disturbing the visual recognition of the small symbols. Further, by displaying an image having a resolution lower than that of the normal effect image in the effect display device 9 as a pseudo light guide plate image, it is possible to perform display with higher similarity to the light guide plate effect.

  Further, for example, FIGS. 42D1 to 42D3 are explanatory diagrams illustrating a specific example of the second pseudo light guide plate effect in which characters such as “extreme heat” are displayed as the display information pseudo light guide plate image. As shown in FIG. 42 (D1), the effect display device 9 displays a variation of the effect symbol. At this time, the effect symbol is displayed as a small symbol. Then, when the second pseudo light guide plate effect execution timing T2 is reached, as shown in FIG. 42 (D2), the display image of the normal display layer in the effect display device 9 is masked to provide the second pseudo light guide plate effect. This makes it easier for the player to visually recognize the displayed content. Thereafter, as shown in FIG. 42 (D3), characters such as “extreme heat” are displayed on the effect display device 9 as a pseudo light guide plate image. At this time, the special display layer on which the small symbols are displayed has higher display priority than the pseudo light guide plate effect display layer on which the pseudo light guide plate image is displayed (see FIG. 30), and therefore has priority over the pseudo light guide plate image. Thus, a small symbol is displayed. Therefore, a pseudo light guide plate effect similar to the light guide plate effect can be executed without disturbing the visual recognition of the small symbols. Further, by displaying an image having a resolution lower than that of the normal effect image in the effect display device 9 as a pseudo light guide plate image, it is possible to perform display with higher similarity to the light guide plate effect.

  In this way, when comparing the light guide plate effect and the pseudo light guide plate effect, the pseudo light guide plate effect is different from the light guide plate effect in that it displays a display similar to the light guide plate effect without reducing the visibility of small symbols. Is possible. Furthermore, since it is not necessary to provide a light guide plate in the pseudo light guide plate effect, it is possible to prevent an increase in the manufacturing cost of the gaming machine.

  43 to 45 are explanatory diagrams showing specific display examples in the pseudo light guide plate effect. The explanatory diagram shown in FIG. 43 shows a display example of the second pseudo light guide plate effect when PT1 (the effect pattern that transitions to the image data of the data pattern C after the image data of the data pattern A) is selected as the effect pattern. ing. As shown in FIG. 43 (1), the execution of the second pseudo light guide plate effect is started when the effect display device 9 is performing the variable display of the effect symbol, and in the frame 5, as shown in FIG. 43 (2). The letters “Intense heat” are displayed in one layer. At this time, although the characters “Intense heat” are also displayed on the base, it is difficult to visually recognize the display with a single layer. Thereafter, as shown in FIGS. 43 (3) to 43 (6), the frames 6 to 15, the frames 24 to 35, and the frames 50 to 75 appear to blink as the opacity increases and decreases. Will display the word “Intense Heat”. Then, in the frames 76 to 80, as shown in FIGS. 43 (7) and 43 (8), the display is faded out as the opacity decreases and the enlargement ratio increases. Also in this case, it is possible to perform display similar to the light guide plate effect while ensuring the visibility of small symbols.

  The explanatory diagram shown in FIG. 44 shows a display example of the second pseudo light guide plate effect when PT2 (the effect pattern that transitions to the image data of the data pattern C after the image data of the data pattern B) is selected as the effect pattern. ing. As shown in FIG. 44 (1), the execution of the second pseudo light guide plate effect is started when the effect display device 9 is performing the variable display of the effect symbol. 44 (frame 6 to frame 13) as shown in FIG. 44 (3), while increasing the opacity and the enlargement ratio from the state shown in FIG. Display of one layer and two layers is performed. Then, in the frames 24 to 35 and the frames 50 to 75, as shown in FIGS. 44 (4) to 44 (8), “hot heat” appears as if the opacity is flashing as the opacity increases and decreases. Characters are displayed. In the frames 76 to 80, as shown in FIGS. 44 (9) and 44 (10), the display is faded out as the magnifying rate increases while the opacity decreases. Also in this case, it is possible to perform display similar to the light guide plate effect while ensuring the visibility of small symbols.

  The explanatory diagram shown in FIG. 45 shows a display example of the second pseudo light guide plate effect when the image data of the data pattern D is used. In the frames 16 to 29, as shown in FIG. 45 (1), the characters “Intense heat” are displayed in one layer. At this time, although the characters “Intense heat” are also displayed on the base, it is difficult to visually recognize the display with a single layer. In the frame 30, the characters “Intense heat” are displayed in two layers as shown in FIG. 45 (2), and in the frame 39, the characters “Intense heat” are displayed in three layers as shown in FIG. 45 (3). Is displayed on the frame 48 as shown in FIG. 45 (4), and the word “Intense heat” is displayed on the fifth layer in the frame 59 as shown in FIG. 45 (5). Is displayed. In this manner, a pseudo light guide plate effect similar to display by a plurality of light guide plates can be executed. Also in this case, it is possible to perform display similar to the light guide plate effect while ensuring the visibility of small symbols.

  As described above, according to this embodiment, the game execution machine capable of playing a game and capable of executing a game-related effect (in this example, in the effect control microcomputer 100). The execution execution means includes a predetermined effect (in this example, a normal effect image such as an effect symbol or a background), and a normal effect such as a changing effect in this example. ) In a state in which the visibility of the predetermined image is lowered (in this example, steps S3703 and S3708 have been executed), the specific image (in this example, the pseudo light guide plate image) is more than the predetermined image. A specific image effect (in this example, a pseudo light guide plate effect display layer that is a layer having a higher display priority than a normal display layer that displays a normal effect image in this example) Is capable of executing Nishirube light plate effect) (in this example, the effect control microcomputer 100, step S 3704, S3709 is capable of executing) was decided. Thereby, the kind of production increases and an interest can be improved.

  Further, if various patterns are displayed by light guide plate effects, it is necessary to provide as many light guide plates as the number of display patterns, which increases the manufacturing cost of the gaming machine. Therefore, by executing the pseudo light guide plate effect by the effect display device 9 as in the present embodiment, it is possible to provide the same effect as the effect by the light guide plate while preventing an increase in manufacturing cost.

  Note that the “state in which the visibility of the predetermined image is reduced” is a state in which the predetermined image is visible as in this embodiment (for example, FIG. 41 (B2), (B3)) or a state in which the predetermined image cannot be visually recognized. In this embodiment, the visibility of a predetermined image is reduced by applying a mask, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the visibility of the predetermined image may be reduced by switching the predetermined image itself to one with low visibility (for example, an image with low brightness).

  In this embodiment, while displaying a predetermined image (normal effect image) on a layer with a low display priority, and displaying a specific image (pseudo light guide plate image) on a layer with a low display priority, Although it is realized that “the image is displayed superimposed on the front side of the predetermined image”, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, one image provided in advance is displayed so that a specific image (for example, a pseudo light guide plate image) is superimposed on the front side of a predetermined image (for example, a normal effect image) (that is, the specific image is actually specified). Instead of displaying the image and the predetermined image in an overlapping manner, the specific image is displayed as if it is superimposed on the front side of the predetermined image. It is good also as implement | achieving "it superimposes and displays on the front side."

  Further, in the present embodiment, as the image data corresponding to the data patterns A to D, each pseudo light guide plate effect type (first pseudo light guide plate effect, second pseudo light guide plate effect) and color tone (blue, red, rainbow) Although different gd11 to gd16, gd21 to gd26, gd31 to gd36, and gd41 to gd46 are provided and the pseudo light guide plate effect is executed using any one of the image data, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the pseudo light guide plate effect is executed using the data patterns A to D irrespective of the pseudo light guide plate effect type (first pseudo light guide plate effect, second pseudo light guide plate effect) and color tone (blue, red, rainbow). It is good as well. Specifically, it is selected which of the data patterns A to D the image corresponding to which data pattern is displayed, and according to the pseudo light guide plate effect type and color tone based on the opacity and magnification of the selected data pattern The pseudo light guide plate effect may be executed by repeating the process of synthesizing and displaying the pattern (blue, red, or rainbow character or character) for each frame. In this case, as image data corresponding to the pattern according to the pseudo light guide plate effect type and color tone, six types of data (blue character, red character, rainbow character, blue character) that are combinations of the pattern and color tone are included. , Red characters and rainbow-colored characters) are sufficient, so that the storage capacity can be reduced as compared with this embodiment.

  Note that although the present embodiment has been described using a gaming machine in which a light guide plate is not provided, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, in a gaming machine provided with a light guide plate and capable of executing a light guide plate effect, a pseudo light guide plate effect may be executed. In that case, the same display may be performed in the light guide plate effect and the pseudo light guide plate effect. For example, six light guide plates whose display contents are all “super heat” and whose display contents are different from each other are arranged on the front side (player side) as the display contents are larger. The first light guide plate A is the base, the second light guide plate B from the back side is one layer, the third light guide plate C is the second light guide plate C from the back side, and the third light guide plate D is from the front side. Display control (light emission of the light emitting member provided on each end face) with 3 layers, 4 layers of the second light guide plate E from the front side, and 5 layers of the first light guide plate F. For example, a light guide plate effect that performs display similar to the pseudo light guide plate effect shown in the present embodiment can be executed. At this time, by sequentially performing display control of the light guide plate from the back side to the front side, it is possible to make it appear as if the characters that are the display contents are enlarged, and conversely the display of the light guide plate from the front side to the back side By sequentially performing the control, it is possible to make it appear as if the characters that are the display contents are reduced. In addition, if the light guide plate arranged on the front side is configured so that the saturation of the light emission color of the light emitting member provided on the end surface is increased, the similarity between the display of the light guide plate effect and the pseudo light guide plate effect is further increased. Can be increased. Moreover, the display similar to the display at the time of adjusting the opacity in pseudo light guide plate effect can be performed by adjusting the brightness of the light by the light emitting member. Further, if the light guide plate disposed on the front side is configured so that the saturation of the light emission color of the light emitting member provided on the end surface is increased, the similarity between the display of the light guide plate effect and the pseudo light guide plate effect is further increased. be able to.

  As the execution timing of the light guide plate effect and the pseudo light guide plate effect effect, the effects may be executed in parallel or may be executed independently. Moreover, it is good also as performing the staged effect which performs display control of a light-guide plate after displaying a pseudo light-guide plate image, and the staged effect which displayed the pseudo-light-guide plate image after performing display control of a light-guide plate It is good also as performing. Thereby, the production effect can be improved.

  Alternatively, the light guide plate effect and the pseudo light guide plate effect may be combined (that is, an effect combining the display control of the light guide plate and the display of the pseudo light guide plate image may be executed). For example, three light guide plates whose display contents are all “super heat” and whose display contents are different from each other are arranged on the front side (player side) as the display contents are larger. The three light guide plates and the three display layers in the effect display device 9 may be used to produce an effect that looks like a light guide plate effect using six light guide plates. For example, one layer of display layer for pseudo light guide plate effect, two layers of display layer for pseudo light guide plate effect, three layers of display layer for pseudo light guide plate effect, first light guide plate on the back side, second guide on the back side By performing display control in the order of the light plate and the light guide plate on the frontmost side, it is possible to execute an effect that interlocks so that the display content is enlarged. Conversely, the light guide plate on the first front side, the light guide plate on the second front side, the light guide plate on the backmost side, the three display layers for the pseudo light guide plate effect, the two layers of the display layer for the pseudo light guide plate effect, the pseudo By performing display control in the order of one layer of the light guide plate effect display layer, it is also possible to execute an effect linked with the display content to be reduced.

  In addition, a light guide plate effect, a pseudo light guide plate effect, a stepwise first effect of performing display control of the light guide plate after displaying the pseudo light guide plate image, and a pseudo light guide plate image after performing display control of the light guide plate The degree of reliability may be different between the displayed stepwise second effect and the third effect that simultaneously executes display control of the light guide plate and display of the pseudo light guide plate image. For example, the reliability may be a pseudo light guide plate effect <light guide plate effect <first effect <second effect <third effect, or vice versa.

  In addition, if the gaming machine can execute both the light guide plate effect and the pseudo light guide plate effect, the case of executing only the light guide plate effect, the case of executing only the pseudo light guide plate effect, and the light guide plate effect and the pseudo light guide plate effect. The reliability for the big hit, the reliability for the big win advantageous for the player, and the reliability for being controlled in a gaming state advantageous for the player are different from the case where the game is executed in parallel. Also good. For example, when the gaming state is controlled to the effect mode that does not notify whether or not it is a high probability state, if it is a high probability state, the light guide plate effect and the pseudo light guide plate effect are most easily executed in parallel. Next, only the light guide plate effect may be easily executed, and only the pseudo light guide plate effect may be difficult to execute. In the low-probability state, only the pseudo light guide plate effect is most easily executed, and then only the light guide plate effect is easily executed. The light guide plate effect and the pseudo light guide plate effect may be difficult to execute in parallel. .

  Moreover, although description is abbreviate | omitted in this Embodiment, it is good also as performing the pseudo | simulation light-guide plate suggestion effect which suggests execution of a pseudo | simulation light-guide plate effect. Thereby, it is possible to give a player a sense of expectation for the execution of the pseudo light guide plate effect, and to improve the interest. Moreover, if it is a game machine which can perform a light guide plate effect, it is good also as being able to perform the light guide plate suggestion effect which suggests execution of a light guide plate effect. Thereby, the player can be given a sense of expectation that the light guide plate effect will be executed, and the entertainment can be improved. In addition, if the gaming machine is capable of executing a pseudo light guide plate effect and a light guide plate effect, it may be possible to execute a suggestive effect that suggests execution of any one of the pseudo light guide plate effect and the light guide plate effect. . Thereby, the player can be given a sense of expectation that one of the effects will be executed, and the interest can be improved.

  Further, in a gaming machine including a light guide plate and an effect display device, the positional relationship between the light guide plate and the effect display device is provided at the overlapping position (the light guide plate is on the near side and the effect display device is on the back side (z-axis direction)). It is not limited to what is being done. For example, the light guide plate may be provided on the left or right side (x-axis direction) of the effect display device, or may be provided on the upper side or the lower side (y-axis direction). . For example, the effect display device A, the light guide plate provided on the front side of the effect display device, and the effect display provided on the right side of the effect display device A and the light guide plate (position not overlapping with the effect display device A and the light guide plate) The apparatus B includes a light guide plate effect using the light guide plate and a pseudo light guide plate effect using the effect display device B, and the display content in the light guide plate effect and the display content in the pseudo light guide plate effect. The light guide plate effect and the pseudo light guide plate effect may be executable so that and become a common picture or pattern, or a series of pictures or patterns. In that case, during normal times (when the light guide plate effect is not executed), the symbols displayed on the effect display device A (including effect symbols, small symbols, and 4th symbol), abnormality notification, and game ball launch are instructed. An image such as an instruction notification image to be displayed may be moved to the special display layer of the effect display device B and displayed during execution of the light guide plate effect. Thereby, a light guide plate effect and a pseudo light guide plate effect can be executed without hindering visual recognition of images such as symbols, abnormality notifications, and instruction notification images.

  In addition, as described above, according to this embodiment, a plurality of types of specific image effects having different rendering modes (in this example, a plurality of types of pseudo light guide plate effects having different patterns, execution timings, color tones, or performance patterns) ) Can be executed. Thereby, the production effect of specific image production can be improved. In addition, as the effect mode, a plurality of types of pseudo light guide plate effects having different display positions and display image sizes may be executable.

  Further, as described above, according to this embodiment, it is possible to display identification information (in this example, the fourth symbol, the small symbol) on the front side of the specific image. Thereby, the production effect can be improved while ensuring the visibility of the identification information. The “identification information” does not have to correspond to a special symbol. When a symbol corresponding to a normal symbol can be displayed, the symbol corresponding to the normal symbol is displayed on the front side of the pseudo light guide plate image. It is good also as being able to display in. In addition, an operation instruction display that prompts the player to operate an operation member such as the push button 120 may be displayed on the front side of the specific image. Thereby, the pseudo light guide plate effect can be executed without hindering the operation instruction display.

  In the present embodiment, the effect execution means puts the mask on the predetermined image so as to reduce the visibility of the predetermined image (in this example, the effect control microcomputer 100 performs step S3703. S3708 can be executed). Thereby, the production effect of specific image production can be improved.

  In the present embodiment, the effect execution means can execute a specific image effect that is displayed by switching the opacity of the specific image a plurality of times (in this example, the effect control microcomputer 100 uses the data pattern A. By using the image data, it is possible to execute a pseudo light guide plate effect in which the opacity is switched a plurality of times in one layer from the frame 5 to the frame 15. Further, by using the image data of the data pattern C, one of the frames 24 to 35 is obtained. It is possible to execute a pseudo light guide plate effect in which the opacity is switched a plurality of times in one layer of the layer 50 to the frame 75. Further, by using the image data of the data pattern D, one layer of the frame 22 to the frame 25, the frame 29 -1st and 2nd layer of frame 35, 1st-3rd layer of frame 38-frame 43, frame 1 four layers of 48 to frame 53, possible it executes the Produce multiple switched pseudo light guide plate opacity in one layer 5 layer frame 60 frame 68) was decided. Thereby, the production effect of specific image production can be improved.

  The specific value of opacity is not limited to the above. For example, it is possible to intermittently switch ON / OFF of the substantial display and blink the specific image by repeating the switching to a predetermined value after setting the opacity value to “0” a plurality of times. The specific image may be blinked by intermittently switching the presence / absence of the display of the specific image.

  In this embodiment, the effect execution means can execute a specific image effect that displays a specific image having a resolution lower than that of the predetermined image (in this example, the effect control microcomputer 100 has a resolution of 96 ppi. An effect image of a certain normal effect can be displayed, and an effect image of a pseudo light guide plate effect having a resolution of 48 ppi can be displayed (see FIG. 41 (B3)). Thereby, since it can be displayed as if it is displayed by the light guide plate, it is possible to provide the same effect as the effect by the light guide plate, and to improve the effect of the specific image effect.

  In the present embodiment, the effect execution means can execute a specific image effect that displays a plurality of superimposed images as a specific image (in this example, the effect control microcomputer 100 uses the data patterns A to D). By using this image data, it is possible to execute a pseudo light guide plate effect in which a pseudo light guide plate image is displayed in a plurality of layers (base and 1 to 5 layers) having different display priorities). Thereby, it can be made to look like the display by a some light-guide plate, and the production effect of a specific image effect can be improved.

  In the present embodiment, the effect execution means can execute a specific image effect at a plurality of timings (in this example, the effect control microcomputer 100 uses the first pseudo light guide plate effect execution timing T1 and the second The pseudo light guide plate effect can be executed at the pseudo light guide plate effect execution timing T2). Thereby, the production effect of specific image production can be improved.

  The execution timing of the pseudo light guide plate effect is not limited to the first pseudo light guide plate effect execution timing T1 before reach and the second pseudo light guide plate effect execution timing T2 after reach. For example, the pseudo light guide plate effect may be executable during the big hit. For example, a pseudo light guide plate effect as an effect indicating that the type of big hit that shifts to a high probability state, an effect indicating that the round continues, or an effect indicating that a reserved memory that is a big hit is stored It may be performed during a big hit. Moreover, if it is a type of game machine which shifts to a certain change state based on the game ball having passed through the specific area. As an effect indicating that the game ball has passed through the specific area, a pseudo light guide plate effect may be executed during a big hit. Even in the case where the pseudo light guide plate effect can be executed during the big hit, as shown in the present embodiment, the reliability may differ depending on the color tone or effect pattern.

  In the present embodiment, the pseudo light guide plate effect can be executed regardless of any variation, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, when the game state is controlled to a specific game state (for example, high base state, low base state, high probability state, low probability state), or whether a specific performance mode (for example, high probability state) If it is controlled in a latent mode or a mission mode that makes it difficult for a person to recognize, the pseudo light guide plate effect may be executable. Further, a pseudo light guide plate effect may be executable as an effect for a variation that has not yet been started (so-called pre-reading effect).

  In the present embodiment, the effect execution means can execute the specific image effect with different effect patterns based on the display color of the specific image (in this example, the effect control microcomputer 100 performs step S2804. In S2811, it is determined that the production pattern (PT1 to PT4) can be determined based on the color tone (blue, red, rainbow). Thereby, the production effect of specific image production can be improved.

  In the present embodiment, in the pseudo light guide plate effect, it is possible to select each effect pattern regardless of the color tone. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and for example, a dedicated effect pattern for each color tone It is good also as being provided. For example, if the color tone is “blue”, an effect pattern in which the pseudo light guide plate image blinks at a low speed is selected. If “red”, an effect pattern in which the pseudo light guide plate image blinks at a high speed is selected. If there is, an effect pattern in which the pseudo light guide plate image is turned on may be selected. A plurality of dedicated effect patterns may be provided for one color tone, and the pseudo light guide plate effect may be executed using any one of the dedicated effect patterns.

  In the present embodiment, the layer of the effect display device 9 is provided as shown in FIG. 30, but the specific example is not limited to this. For example, the special display layer may include a plurality of layers having different display priorities. For example, a first special display layer that displays the fourth symbol, a second special display layer that displays the small symbol, and a third special display layer that displays the abnormality notification image are provided, and the display priority is the third special display. Layer> second special display layer> first special display layer may be satisfied.

  Similarly, for example, the normal display layer may include a plurality of layers having different display priorities. For example, a first normal display layer that displays a background, a second normal display layer that displays an effect design, a third normal display layer that displays an image of a notice effect A, and a fourth that displays an image of a notice effect B A normal display layer, a fifth normal display layer for displaying a hold display or an active display (display corresponding to a change during execution), a sixth normal display layer for displaying an effect for the hold display or the active display, and these normal display layers A seventh normal display layer for displaying a mask to be applied, and the display priority is the seventh normal display layer> the sixth normal display layer> the fifth normal display layer> the fourth normal display layer> the third normal display layer> The second normal display layer may be greater than the first normal display layer.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the design in the first pseudo light guide plate effect that can be executed before the reach and the design in the second pseudo light guide plate effect that can be executed after the reach are made different from each other. is not. For example, a common pattern may be displayed in the pseudo light guide plate effect before reach and the pseudo light guide plate effect after reach.

  In the present embodiment, one pseudo light guide plate image (character, character) is determined for each type of pseudo light guide plate effect, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a plurality of pseudo light guide plate images may be provided in the first pseudo light guide plate effect, and different pseudo light guide plate images may be displayed based on the reliability with respect to the big hit.

  Although explanation is omitted in the present embodiment, an action promotion display that prompts the player to perform an action (for example, a push operation on the push button 120 or the trigger button 121, a tilt operation on the stick controller 122, or a touch panel operation). It may be performed by the effect display device 9. In that case, the action promoting image may be displayed on the special display layer, or the action promoting image may be displayed on the normal display layer.

  For example, the display layer for displaying the action promotion image may be different depending on the type of the action promotion effect for displaying the action promotion image. Specifically, when a highly reliable operation effect indicating that the reliability for the big hit is high when the player's operation is detected, an operation instruction image is displayed on the special display layer, while the player's operation is displayed. When a low-reliability operation effect that does not indicate that the reliability for the big hit is high is detected, an operation instruction image may be displayed on the normal display layer. As a result, when the operation instruction image and the pseudo light guide plate image are displayed in a superimposed manner, the operation instruction image can be displayed with priority over the pseudo light guide plate image if the operation instruction image is highly reliable, and the low reliability If it is an operation effect, the pseudo light guide plate image can be displayed with priority over the operation instruction image.

  Further, for example, the display layer for displaying the motion promotion image may be different depending on the timing of displaying the motion promotion image. Specifically, when the operation promotion display is performed when the pseudo light guide plate effect is not being executed, the operation instruction image is displayed on the special display layer, while the operation promotion display is performed while the pseudo light guide plate effect is being executed. May display an operation instruction image on the normal display layer. As a result, when the operation instruction image and the pseudo light guide plate image are displayed in an overlapping manner, the operation instruction image can be displayed with priority over the pseudo light guide plate image when the operation instruction display is performed first. When the pseudo light guide plate effect is being executed, the pseudo light guide plate image can be displayed with priority over the operation instruction image.

  In addition, although description is omitted in the present embodiment, in the case of the fluctuation accompanied by the pseudo-continuous, the pseudo light guide plate effect may be repeatedly executed every time the re-change is performed. In that case, it is preferable not to select a color tone or effect pattern that shows a lower reliability than the reliability indicated by the pseudo light guide plate effect executed immediately before. Specifically, when re-variation is performed after executing the first pseudo light guide plate effect having a color tone of “red”, the first pseudo light guide plate effect having a color tone of “blue” is not executed after the re-change. It is good. For example, in the case of a change in which re-change is performed twice, before the first re-change, after the first re-change and before the second re-change, and after the second re-change, Although the light guide plate effect can be executed, the first first pseudo light guide plate color tone is “blue”, the second first pseudo light guide plate color tone is “red”, and the third first pseudo light guide plate color tone. The color tone of the effect may be “rainbow”, the color tone of the first and second first light guide plate effects may be “blue”, and the color tone of the third first light guide plate effect may be “red”. As a result, it is possible to prevent the player from being discouraged even when a sense of expectation is once given.

  In the present embodiment, the pseudo light guide plate effect using a plurality of display layers among the display layers for the pseudo light guide plate effect (base, 1 layer to 5 layers) is executed. However, the present invention is not limited to this. Instead, the pseudo light guide plate effect that displays only one of the display layers may be executable.

  In addition, although explanation is omitted in the present embodiment, it is provided with detection means for detecting the occurrence of abnormality, and the effect execution means can display the abnormality notification image on the front side of the specific image during execution of the specific image effect. It may be there. Specifically, a description will be given using Modification 1 below. Note that description of the same portions as those in the above-described embodiment is omitted.

  For example, in the first modified example, the CPU 56 receives an abnormal winning (for example, winning a big winning opening when it is not a big hit), opening the glass door frame 2, excessively storing game balls in the upper plate, or abnormal magnetism or abnormal. The occurrence of abnormality such as radio waves can be detected, and when the occurrence of abnormality is detected, the effect control CPU 101 displays an abnormality notification indicating that the abnormality has occurred on the special display layer of the effect display device 9. To do. Thereby, the pseudo light guide plate effect can be executed without disturbing the visual recognition of the abnormality notification, and the effect of the specific image effect (pseudo light guide plate effect) can be improved.

  In the first modification, the display layer for displaying the abnormality notification may be changed depending on the type of abnormality that has occurred. For example, if a minor abnormality (for example, too much game balls accumulate on the upper plate) occurs, an abnormality notification is displayed on the normal display layer, while if a serious abnormality (other abnormality) occurs, an abnormality is displayed. The notification may be displayed on the special display layer. In this way, when a minor abnormality occurs, the pseudo light guide plate image is displayed with priority over the abnormality notification, so that the deterioration of the effect of the pseudo light guide plate effect can be prevented. When it occurs, it is possible to reliably notify the occurrence of the abnormality by displaying the abnormality notification in preference to the pseudo light guide plate image.

  In addition, although explanation is omitted in the present embodiment, it is provided with launching means capable of launching a game medium toward the game area, and the effect execution means includes the first path and the first route in the game area during execution of the specific image effect. An instruction notification image that indicates which of the second paths different from the one path is to be used for launching the game medium may be displayed on the front side of the specific image. Specifically, a description will be given using Modification 2 below. Note that description of the same portions as those in the above-described embodiment is omitted.

  For example, in the second modification, the gaming machine has a first start winning opening 13 on a first path along which a game ball launched on the substantially left side of the gaming area 7 flows down, and a game on which the first starting winning opening 13 is launched on the substantially right side of the gaming area 7. The gate 32 and the second start winning opening 14 are respectively arranged on the second path along which the ball flows down, and an instruction notification image (so-called right-handed notification image) instructing the launch of the game ball on the second route in the high base state. ) May be displayed on the special display layer of the effect display device 9. In addition, for a predetermined period after switching to the low base state, an instruction notification image instructing launching of the game ball on the first route may be displayed on the special display layer of the effect display device 9. Thereby, the pseudo light guide plate effect can be executed without hindering the visual recognition of the instruction notification image, and the effect of the specific image effect (pseudo light guide plate effect) can be improved.

  In addition, although description is omitted in the present embodiment, it may be a gaming machine capable of adjusting effects related to the game (for example, volume adjustment, brightness adjustment, mode switching, etc.) according to the player's operation. Specifically, a description will be given using Modification 3 below. Note that description of the same portions as those in the above-described embodiment is omitted.

  In the third modification example, the effect control CPU 101 executes a sound volume status display process before executing any one of steps S800 to S807 of the effect control process shown in FIG. The volume status display process includes a process for displaying the adjustment status of the volume adjustment. Specifically, the volume status display process is performed in a gaming state other than the super reach effect, or in a state waiting for a customer and not displaying an error (first state), whether or not the player operates the stick controller 122 or the like. Regardless of this, it includes a process for displaying a volume status display image VL showing the adjustment status of the volume adjustment on the display screen of the effect display device 9 so as to be visible.

  FIG. 46 is a flowchart showing the volume status display process in the third modification. In the volume status display process shown in FIG. 46, the effect control CPU 101 first determines whether or not the super reach effect is being performed (step S601). In the process of step S601, for example, it may be confirmed whether or not the change is a super reach change pattern and a reach effect period.

  When the super reach effect is not being performed 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 stick controller 122 during the super reach performance.

  If the super reach operation flag is not set to the on state in step S602 (step S602; No), display control for displaying the volume status display on the effect display device 9 is executed (step S603). For example, a volume status display image VL as a volume status display is displayed on the display screen of the effect display device 9 as shown in FIG. That is, the volume status display image VL indicating the current volume output level is displayed. For example, the volume status display image VL is an image display in a mode in which five rectangular image display sections arranged side by side are left-lit, and in FIG. 48, three five image display sections from the left end are displayed. It is an image display in a mode in which minutes are lit.

  Specifically, when the sound volume is a predetermined minimum level (the sound volume output is a low sound level that is suppressed more than usual and not the mute level), the image display is such that all five image display sections are turned off. Note that the lowest level may be the mute level. Further, in the case of the first level that is one level higher than the lowest level, the image display is in the form in which the leftmost image display section is lit. In the case of the second level, which is one level higher than the first level, the image display is in a state in which two image display sections from the left end are lit. In the case of a third level (that is, a normal level) that is one level higher than the second level, the image display is in a state in which three image display sections from the left end are lit. In the case of the fourth level, which is one higher than the third level, the image display is in a state in which four image display sections from the left end are lit. Further, in the case of the maximum level (fifth level), the image display is performed in such a manner that all five image display sections are lit. Thus, the player can grasp the current volume output level by looking at the volume status display image VL. In the third modification, the volume status display image VL has a meter-type display mode. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the display mode of a numerical formula or a color-type display mode (for example, blue → green) is not limited thereto. It is possible to use various display modes, such as changing from yellow to red in order of the display to indicate that the red color is larger.

  If the super reach operation flag is set (ON state) in step S602 (step S602; Yes), display control for causing the effect display device 9 to continue displaying the volume status (displaying the volume status display image VL). Is executed (step S604), and the super reach operation flag is reset to an off state (step S605). Steps S604 and S605 are processes for continuing the volume status display when the volume change operation is performed immediately before the end of the super reach effect. Thereby, the volume status display image VL displayed by performing the volume change operation immediately before the end of the super reach effect can be continuously displayed after the end of the super reach effect, and once at the end timing of the super reach effect. It can be prevented from being erased.

  After executing the process of step S603 or after executing the process of step S605, the presence / absence of a volume change operation is determined (step S606). If there is a volume change operation (step S606; Yes), the changed volume status display (display of the changed volume status display image VL) and the changed volume setting are executed (step S607). Specifically, when the tilt direction sensor unit 123 detects that the player has operated the stick controller 122 (step S606; Yes), the changed volume state display image VL is displayed on the effect display device 9. The display control is executed, the changed volume setting value is stored in the RAM 122, and the changed volume setting is performed such that the audio output board 70 is controlled so that the changed volume is output from the speaker 27 (step S607). ).

  For example, the stick controller 122 can be operated in the left-right direction, and when the player operates the stick controller 122 once in the right direction, the changed volume state display image VL in which the lighting state of the image display section is increased by one is displayed. While being displayed on the effect display device 9, the volume output from the speaker 27 is increased by one level. On the contrary, when the player operates the stick controller 122 once in the left direction, the changed volume state display image VL in which the lighting state of the image display section is reduced by one is displayed on the effect display device 9. The volume output from the speaker 27 is lowered by one level.

  After executing the process of step S607, it is determined whether or not the non-super-reach operation flag is set to the on state (step S608). The non-super-reach operation flag is a flag that is turned on when the player operates the stick controller 122 at a time other than during super-reach production.

  On the other hand, when there is no volume change operation (step S606; No), it is determined whether or not the operation flag other than the super reach is set to the on state (step S609).

  After executing the process of step S608 or when the non-super-reach operation flag is set to ON in step S609 (step S609; Yes), a predetermined period after the operation (for example, 3 seconds) has elapsed. It is determined whether or not (step S610). When a predetermined period has elapsed after the operation (step S610; Yes), the non-super-reach operation flag is reset to the off state (step S611). The predetermined period after the operation (for example, 3 seconds) may be until the predetermined period (3 seconds) elapses after the first operation, or when the operation is performed a plurality of times within the predetermined period, from the last operation. It may be until a predetermined period (3 seconds) elapses. In the third modification, the predetermined period after the operation is set, but the predetermined period (for example, 3 seconds) may elapse from the start of displaying the volume state display image VL.

  Returning to step S601, if the super reach effect is being performed (step S601; Yes), it is determined whether or not the non-super reach operation flag is set to the on state (step S612). When the non-super-reach operation flag is in an off state (step S612; No), it is determined whether or not the super-reach operation flag is set in an on state (step S613). When the super reach operation flag is in the off state (step S613; No), a process for deleting the volume status display is executed (step S614). Steps S613 and S614 are processing for preventing the volume status from being displayed during the super reach production in principle. Specifically, in the second state in which the super reach effect (specific effect) is executed, that is, in the game state during the super reach effect, the volume status display image VL is not displayed on the effect display device 9 unless requested by the player. (Volume status display image VL is erased). Thus, the volume status display image VL can be prevented from being displayed during the execution of the super reach effect which is an example of the game effect (the effect including an important notice) that the player particularly wants to show, and the effect of the super reach effect can be prevented. Can be suppressed.

  When the non-super-reach operation flag is off in step S609 (step S609; No), if the predetermined period has not elapsed after the operation in step S610 (step S610; No), the process of step S611 is executed. After that, when the non-super-reach operation flag is set to the on state in step S612 (step S612; Yes), 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 state display process is terminated.

  Note that according to the volume state display process (step S162) shown in FIG. 46, the volume state display image VL can be displayed even in the customer waiting state.

  FIG. 47 is a flowchart showing a temporary display process in the third modification. The temporary display process is a process executed when a super reach effect is executed during a change. In the temporary display process shown in FIG. 47, the effect control CPU 101 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 a predetermined period (for example, 3 seconds) has elapsed after the operation (step S702). If the predetermined period has not elapsed after the operation (step S702; No), the presence / absence of a volume changing operation is determined (step S703).

  If there is a volume change operation (step S703; Yes), the changed volume status display (display of the changed volume status display image VL) and the changed volume setting are executed (step S704). In this step S704, when the tilt direction sensor unit 123 detects that the player has operated the stick controller 122 (for example, operated in the left direction or the right direction), the volume status display image VL after being changed to the effect display device 9 is displayed. Is displayed, and the changed volume setting value is stored, and the changed sound volume setting is performed such that the sound output board 70 is controlled so that the changed sound volume is output from the speaker 27 (step). S704).

  On the other hand, when a predetermined period has elapsed after the operation (step S702; Yes), a volume status display erasure process for erasing the volume status display image VL displayed on the effect display device 9 is executed (step S705). The non-super-reach operation flag is reset to the off state (step S706).

  When the non-super-reach operation flag is off at step S701 (step S701; No), when there is no volume change operation at step S703 (step S703; No), after executing the process of step S704, After executing the process of step S706, 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 a volume change operation start is accepted (step S708). If the operation start is accepted in step S708 (step S708; Yes), that is, if the tilt direction sensor unit 123 detects that the player has operated the stick controller 122, the current volume is displayed on the effect display device 9. Display control for displaying the status display image VL is executed (step S709). As shown in FIG. 48D, during the super reach effect, the current sound volume status display image VL is displayed on the effect display device 9 according to the operation of the stick controller 122. After executing the process of step S709, the super reach operation flag is set to the on state (step S710).

  When the super-reach operation flag is ON in step S707 (step S707; Yes), or after executing the process of step S710, it is determined whether a predetermined period (for example, 3 seconds) has elapsed after the operation (step S707). Step S711). If the predetermined period has not elapsed after the operation (step S711; No), it is determined whether or not a volume change operation has been performed (step S712). When there is a volume change operation (step S712; Yes), the display of the changed volume status display image VL and the changed volume setting are executed (step S713). Specifically, when the tilt direction sensor unit 123 detects that the player has operated the stick controller 122 in the left-right direction (step S712; Yes), it corresponds to the number of operations of the stick controller 122 in the left-right direction. Display control for displaying the changed volume status display image VL on the effect display device 9 is executed, and the changed volume setting value corresponding to the number of operations is stored in the RAM 122, and the changed volume output is output from the speaker 27. The changed sound volume setting such as controlling the audio output board 70 is executed (step S607).

  For example, as shown in FIG. 48 (E), when the player operates the stick controller 122 once in the right direction, the lighting state of the image display section is increased by one, and the volume state display image VL after the change (fourth level) Is displayed on the effect display device 9, and the volume output from the speaker 27 is increased by one level. Contrary to the above, when the player operates the stick controller 122 once in the left direction, the changed volume state display image VL in which the lighting state of the image display section is reduced by one is displayed on the effect display device 9. In addition, the sound volume output from the speaker 27 is lowered by one level.

  When a predetermined period has elapsed after the operation (step S711; Yes), a process for deleting the volume status display is executed (step S714). For example, as shown in FIG. 48F, when a predetermined period has elapsed after the operation, the display of the volume state display image VL is erased. That is, the volume status display is not displayed. In this way, during the super reach production, if there is a player's operation, the volume status display image VL is temporarily displayed, and if the predetermined period has elapsed after the operation, the volume status display is still in progress. The image VL is erased.

  After executing the process of step S714, the super-reach operation flag is reset to the off state (step S715). Then, when no operation start is accepted at step S708 (step S708; No), when there is no volume change operation at step S712 (step S712; No), after the processing of step S713 is executed, or after step S715. After executing the process, the temporary display process is terminated.

  Next, a case where a volume change operation is performed in the super reach variation display will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 48 illustrates an effect example in the case where there is a volume change operation in the super reach variation display in the third modification. In this execution example, the active display change effect is executed, and the display mode of the active display becomes “red” as shown in FIG. 48A, and the variable display state of the decorative symbols is reached as shown in FIG. This is explained from the fact that the state (reach has been established). Further, through the volume status display process, a volume status display image VL is displayed on the effect display device 9 as shown in FIG.

  48B, the reach effect in the super reach as shown in FIG. 48C is executed. An effect image as shown in FIG. 48C (for example, an image using characters “super reach”) is displayed on the screen of the effect display device 9 to notify the super reach. The player can grasp that the super reach production is executed. Further, as shown in FIG. 48 (C), the variable display of the decorative symbols is reduced and displayed at the upper left portion of the screen of the effect display device 9. Further, the volume status display image VL is erased from the screen of the effect display device 9 by the volume status display deletion process (step S614) as shown in FIG. Further, as shown in FIG. 48C, the hold display is deleted.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 48D, when the stick controller 122 is operated during the super reach effect, the volume state display image VL is displayed. Then, when the player operates the stick controller 122 once in the right direction, as shown in FIG. 48 (E), the lit state of the image display section is increased by one, and the volume state display image VL after the change is made. (Volume status display image VL at the fourth level) is displayed on the effect display device 9, and the volume output from the speaker 27 increases by one level (becomes the fourth level volume output). Then, when a predetermined period (for example, 3 seconds) elapses after the operation, the volume status display image VL is deleted as shown in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 48 (H), the battle effect result (here, for example, the battle defeat result) is displayed through FIG. 48 (D), and the super reach effect is completed, for example, as shown in FIG. 48 (I). The final stop symbol of the reach combination is derived and displayed. Further, as shown in FIG. 48 (I), since the super reach effect is finished, the changed volume state display image VL is displayed and the hold display is restored.

  Further, as shown in FIGS. 48D and 48E, the volume status display image VL in the gaming state (second state) during the super reach effect is other than the super reach effect as shown in FIG. Since the display is the same as the display state of the volume state display image VL in the gaming state (first state), the display of the volume state display image VL in the second state can be easily understood. As described above, the first state and the second state may not be the same. For example, the volume state display image VL in the second state may display [1] a different display from the volume state display image VL in the first state at the same display location as in the first state, or [2] The same display as the volume state display image VL in the first state may be displayed at a different display location from that in the first state, or [3] the first display different from the volume state display image VL in the first state. You may display in the display location different from the case of a state.

  As described above, according to the pachinko gaming machine 1 of the third modification, in the game state (first state) other than during the super reach effect, the volume is controlled regardless of whether or not the player has operated the stick controller 122 (player operation). Since the status display image VL (volume adjustment status) is displayed on the effect display device 9 so as to be visible, the volume status display image VL can always be viewed in the gaming state other than during the super reach effect. Further, in the game state (second state) during the super reach effect in which the super reach effect (specific effect) is executed, the volume status display image VL is not visible and the player operates the stick controller 122. Displays the volume status display image VL based on the player's operation of the stick controller 122 until a predetermined period elapses after the operation (until a predetermined condition is satisfied). That is, in the gaming state during the super reach effect, the display of the volume status display image VL can be minimized. Thereby, the volume state display image VL can be displayed according to the player's request while suppressing the reduction in the effect of the super reach effect (specific effect), and the fun of the game can be improved.

  The specific effect is an effect (for example, a super reach effect) that suggests that the player is in an advantageous state. For this reason, while suppressing the fall of the production effect about a super reach production, the volume condition display image VL can be displayed according to a player's request, and the interest property of a game can be improved.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 48 (I), the volume status display image VL is displayed at a position not covered by the decorative pattern at the time of stoppage of variation, so that the final stop symbol of the decorative pattern, that is, the game result can be visually confirmed. The volume can be adjusted while not obstructing.

  In the game state (second state) during the super reach effect, the volume state display image VL is displayed for a predetermined period (or a predetermined period from the start of display of the volume state display image VL) from the detection of the operation of the stick controller 122 by the player. Since it is displayed, the display of the volume status display image VL can be minimized. Thereby, the volume state display image VL can be displayed according to the player's request while suppressing the reduction in the effect of the super reach effect (specific effect), and the fun of the game can be improved.

  In this modified example 3, the first state is a gaming state other than during the super reach production, but the period before the super reach production (before the start) or after the super reach production (after the end) It may be in any state. In addition, the first state may be at least one of a period before the execution of the super reach effect in one change (before the start) or a period after the execution of the super reach effect in one change (after the end). In addition, the second state may be a state of a period for executing the super reach effect in one change.

  Further, according to the player's operation of the stick controller 122 (player's action) before the game state (first state) other than during the super reach effect is shifted to the game state (second state) during the super reach effect. When the display of the volume state display image VL for volume adjustment (effect adjustment) is started and the predetermined condition is not satisfied when the state is shifted from the first state to the second state, that is, the super reach effect is being performed, but a predetermined period after the operation. If (3 seconds) has not elapsed, the display of the volume status display image VL is extended until a predetermined period has elapsed since the detection or transition of the player's motion, so the display of the volume status display image VL is super Even after reaching reach, it can be extended for a predetermined period. That is, it is possible to prevent the volume status display image VL for volume adjustment started just before the start of the super reach production from being terminated halfway at the start timing of the super reach production, and the display of the volume status display image VL is erased midway. You can prevent the uncomfortable feeling of being done. Further, it is not necessary for the player to operate the stick controller 122 again immediately after the start of the super reach effect, and a user-friendly gaming machine can be provided.

  Contrary to the above, the operation of the player's stick controller 122 (the player's operation) before the transition from the gaming state (second state) during the super reach effect to the gaming state (first state) other than during the super reach effect. Display of the volume status display image VL for volume adjustment (effect adjustment) is started according to the operation), and when the predetermined condition is not satisfied when the state transitions from the second state to the first state, that is, the super reach effect ends. When the game state other than the super reach effect is entered but the predetermined period (3 seconds) has not elapsed since the operation, the display of the volume status display image VL is continued even after the transition to the first state. A process of deleting the display of the volume status display image VL when the period has elapsed can be eliminated. In other words, since the volume status display image VL is always displayed in the first state, it is possible to omit a useless process of erasing the volume status display image VL once when a predetermined period has elapsed and starting display again. In addition, it is possible to prevent an uncomfortable feeling that the display of the volume state display image VL disappears for a moment at the timing when the predetermined period has elapsed.

  Further, the details of the control of the gaming machine described in the above-described embodiment (when the predetermined image is displayed while the predetermined image is reduced in visibility while the predetermined image is displayed) The content that it is possible to execute a specific image effect displayed in a superimposed manner) may be applied to the gaming machine described in the third modification. For example, the pseudo light guide plate effect can be executed, and in the first state, the adjustment status is displayed so as to be visible regardless of the player's action, and the second state is a state different from the first state and executes the specific effect. Then, the adjustment status may be difficult or impossible to see, and the adjustment status may be displayed until a predetermined condition is satisfied based on the player's action. In this case, when the display of the volume status display image VL and the display of the pseudo light guide plate effect are performed in an overlapping manner, the display of the volume status display image VL is displayed with higher priority than the pseudo light guide plate image (pseudo). The volume status display image VL may be displayed in a layer having a higher display priority than the light guide plate effect display layer.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, for example, a case where a plurality of types of special symbols and production symbols “1” to “9” are variably displayed and the display result is derived and displayed is shown. It cannot be caught. For example, the symbol that is variably displayed and the symbol that is derived and displayed are not necessarily the same, and a symbol that is different from the symbol that is variably displayed may be derived and displayed. Further, it is not always necessary to variably display a plurality of types of symbols, and variable display may be executed using only one type of symbols. In this case, for example, variable display may be executed by alternately turning on and blinking one kind of symbol display. Even in this case, one type of symbol used for the variable display may be derived and displayed last, or a symbol different from the one type of symbol may be derived and displayed last. It may be a thing.

  In addition, about embodiment mentioned above, although the game machine (what is called a 1st type game machine) which transfers to a jackpot game state based on the variable display result of a special symbol and an effect design was demonstrated, the variable provided in the game area | region was demonstrated. A gaming machine (so-called second type gaming machine) that shifts to a big hit gaming state based on the winning of a gaming ball (V winning) in a specific winning opening (V winning opening) in a winning ball apparatus (so-called role) It is good also as applying in the game machine which combined 1st type and 2nd type.

  Further, in the present embodiment, it is possible to shift to the probability change state based on the type of jackpot that has occurred, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a specific area through which a game ball can pass is provided in the big winning opening, and when the game ball passes through the specific area during a big hit, the game moves to a probable change state, while the specific area is played during the big hit. It is also possible to shift to the normal state when does not pass. In that case, substantial probability variation big hit and non-probability big hit may be realized by changing the ease of passing of the game ball to the specific area according to the big hit type. For example, the easiness of passage of the game ball to the specific area may be changed by changing the opening time of the big winning opening according to the big hit type. Specifically, a big hit type with a long opening time of the big winning opening is set as a big hit (substantial probable big hit) that allows a game ball to easily pass to a specific area, and a big hit type with a short opening time of the big winning opening is set to a specific area. It is good also as a big hit (substantial non-probable big hit) that a sphere does not easily pass.

  In the above-described embodiment, in order to notify the effect control microcomputer 100 of the change pattern indicating the change mode such as the change time, the type of reach effect, the presence / absence of the pseudo-ream, etc., 1 is used when the change is started. Although an example in which one variation pattern command is transmitted has been shown, the variation pattern may be notified to the effect control microcomputer 100 by two or more commands. Specifically, in the case of notifying by two commands, the game control microcomputer 560 uses the first command to indicate whether there is a pseudo-ream, a slip effect, etc. before reaching (so-called if not reach). A command indicating the variation time and variation mode before the second stop) is transmitted, and the second command has reached the reach such as the type of reach and presence / absence of re-lottery effect (if the reach is not reach, so-called first) You may make it transmit the command which shows the fluctuation | variation time and fluctuation | variation aspect (after 2 stop). In this case, the effect control microcomputer 100 may perform effect control in variable display based on the variable time derived from the combination of two commands. The game control microcomputer 560 notifies the change time by each of the two commands, and the effect control microcomputer 100 selects the specific change mode executed at each timing. It may be. When sending two commands, two commands may be sent within the same timer interrupt. After sending the first command, a certain period of time has passed (for example, the next timer interrupt). The second command may be transmitted. Note that the variation mode indicated by each command is not limited to this example, and the order of transmission can be appropriately changed. In this way, by notifying the variation pattern by two or more commands, the amount of data that must be stored as the variation pattern command can be reduced.

  In the above-described embodiment, the production control board 80, the audio output board 70, and the lamp driver board 35 are provided as the boards on which the circuit for controlling the production apparatus is mounted. You may mount on one board | substrate. Further, a first effect control board (display control board) on which a circuit for controlling the effect display device 9 and the like is mounted and a circuit for controlling other effect devices (lamps, LEDs, speakers 27, etc.) are mounted. You may make it provide two board | substrates with two production | presentation control boards.

  In the above embodiment, “the ratios are different” is not limited to those having different ratios such as A: B = 70%: 30% or A: B = 30%: 70%, This is a concept including a ratio that is different in a relationship of A: B = 100%: 0% (that is, one with 100% allocation and the other with 0% allocation).

  In the above-described embodiment, the game control microcomputer 560 directly transmits a command to the effect control microcomputer 100. However, the game control microcomputer 560 transmits another command (for example, FIG. 3). The sound output board 70 and the lamp driver board 35 shown in FIG. 5 or the sound / lamp board having the function of the circuit mounted on the sound output board 70 and the function of the circuit mounted on the lamp driver board 35). A control command may be transmitted and transmitted to the effect control microcomputer 100 on the effect control board 80 via another board. In that case, the command may simply pass through another board, or the sound output board 70, the lamp driver board 35, and the sound / lamp board are equipped with control means such as a microcomputer, and the control means receives the command. In response to this, control related to sound control and lamp control is executed, and the received command is changed as it is or, for example, to a simplified command to control the effect display device 9. You may make it transmit to. Even in that case, the effect control microcomputer 100 performs the display control in accordance with the effect control command directly received from the game control microcomputer 560 in the above-described embodiment. Display control can be performed in accordance with commands received from the board 35 or the sound / lamp board.

  In the above-described embodiment, the game control microcomputer 560 side determines whether or not the game is a big hit and determines whether or not the variation pattern type is winning (pre-reading determination), and shows a command (symbol designation command) indicating the winning determination result. , A variation category command) is transmitted, and the pre-run announcement effect is executed on the effect control microcomputer 100 side based on the command indicating the determination result at the time of winning. However, the present invention is not limited to such a mode. Further, it may be configured such that determination at the time of winning (pre-reading determination) is performed on the production control microcomputer 100 side. In this case, for example, the game control microcomputer 560 transmits a command for designating only the values of the jackpot determination random number (random R) and the variation pattern type determination random number (random 2) extracted at the time of starting winning. In addition, the presentation control microcomputer 100 side may be configured to make a winning determination (pre-reading determination) based on random number values specified by these commands.

  In the above embodiment, a pachinko machine is taken as an example of the gaming machine. However, according to the present invention, a predetermined number of bets are set by inserting medals, and a plurality of types are set according to the operation of the operation lever by the player. When the symbol is rotated and the symbol is stopped according to the stop button operation by the player, if the combination of the stop symbol becomes a specific symbol combination, it applies to a slot machine in which a predetermined number of medals are paid out to the player It is also possible.

  In the above embodiment, the game machine uses a game medium as an example. However, the game machine according to the present invention is not limited to a game machine that pays out a predetermined number of game media, and a game ball The present invention can also be applied to an enclosed game machine that encloses game media such as the above and gives a score when a prize granting condition is satisfied.

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

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Pachinko machine 8a 1st special symbol display device 8b 2nd special symbol display device 9 Production display device 13 1st starting winning port 14 2nd starting winning port 20 Special variable winning ball device 27 Speaker 31 Game control board (main board)
51 Sub-effect display device 56 CPU
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 70 Audio | voice output board | substrate 560 Game control microcomputer 80 Production control board 100 Production control microcomputer 101 Production control CPU
109 VDP

Claims (1)

A gaming machine capable of playing a game,
There is an effect execution means that can execute effects related to the game,
The production execution means
During the execution of the predetermined effect for displaying the predetermined image, it is possible to execute the specific image effect for displaying the specific image superimposed on the front side of the predetermined image with the visibility of the predetermined image being reduced.
The gaming machine can display identification information on the front side of the specific image.