JP2017213258A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine capable of improving a performance effect.SOLUTION: A game machine includes: detection means capable of detecting player's operation; setting means capable of setting a setting state relating to a performance to a first state or a second state; and specific performance execution means capable of executing a specific performance based on a detection result of the detection means. While the specific performance execution means can execute a specific performance in satisfaction of a first performance execution condition in which one operation is continuously detected by the detection means, or in satisfaction of a second performance execution condition in which a plurality of continuous movements are detected by the detection means in the first state, the specific performance execution means can execute a specific performance regardless of a detection result by the detection means in the second state, can execute a specific performance by determining that the first performance execution condition is satisfied when the detection means continuously detects one operation over a specific period in the first state, and can execute a specific performance before a lapse of the specific period in the second state.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 45

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming 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 prize value is given to the player There is something that was configured. Furthermore, variable display means 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 means becomes a specific display result, a predetermined game value Is configured to give to the player (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 device by operating the start lever, and the player By operating the stop button provided corresponding to the display device, 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 devices 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 winning value means that a winning ball is paid out or a score or a prize is given in accordance with the winning of a game ball in the winning area. In addition, the game value means that when a specific display result is obtained, the state of the variable winning ball apparatus provided in the gaming area of the gaming machine becomes an advantageous state for a player who is easy to win, and for the player. For example, a right to be advantageous can be generated, and a condition for paying out a winning ball can be 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 a special symbol (identification information) that is started by variable display means based on the winning of a game ball at the start winning opening. In this case, a “big hit (favorable state)” occurs. The derived display is to stop and display the 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 the special winning opening is opened is fixed to a predetermined number (for example, 16 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.

  In such a gaming machine, the cited document 1 is configured such that an effect corresponding to the continuous hitting operation of the operating means can be executed, and when the pressing operation of the operating means is continuously performed for a predetermined period (long-pressed) ) Describes that the operation corresponding to the continuous hitting operation has been performed. Further, Patent Document 2 describes an auto button function that performs the same processing as when an operation of an operation unit is received with a predetermined condition as a trigger even when the player does not operate the operation unit.

JP 2014-180364 A JP2015-223522A

  However, in the invention described in Patent Document 1, there is no difference in the effect that is executed when the continuous hitting operation is performed and when the operation corresponding to the continuous hitting operation is performed. Also in the invention described in Patent Document 2, there is no difference in the effect that is executed when an operation by the player is performed and when the same processing is performed as when the operation is received by the auto button function. Therefore, in the inventions described in Patent Documents 1 and 2, the effect of rendering cannot be sufficiently enhanced.

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

(1) A gaming machine according to the present invention is a gaming machine capable of performing a technique, and a detection means (for example, a push button 120) capable of detecting a player's action and a setting state related to an effect in a first state Setting means (for example, the production control microcomputer 100) that can be set to (for example, the state in which the auto button function is disabled) or the second state (for example, the state in which the auto button function is enabled) is set. Based on the detection of the operation of the push button 120 in the specific effect (for example, the button notice effect A to C or the decision button effect) based on the detection result of the detection means and the detection unit. Specific effect execution means (for example, performance display) capable of executing a display for reducing the scale of the gauge display, a display of a notice or a success / failure display, etc. The control microcomputer 100 includes steps S8144, S8153, S8174 and S8133, S8118), and the specific effect execution means is continuously detected by the detection means in the first state. The specific effect can be executed when the first effect execution condition is satisfied, or when the second effect execution condition in which a plurality of continuous operations are detected by the detection means is satisfied, while in the second state, the detection means (For example, when the auto button function is set to be effective, even if the push button 120 is not operated, a notice display, a success / failure display, A display for reducing the scale of the gauge display, etc. is performed (see FIGS. 36 to 37, FIGS. 43 to 44, etc.), in the first state. When one operation is continuously detected over a specific period (for example, the automatic continuous hitting start time by the long press operation shown in FIGS. 32A and 32B, see FIG. 45A) by the detecting means. In the second state, the specific effect can be executed before the elapse of the specific period in the second state (FIGS. 32A, 32B, and 45). (See (B)).
According to such a configuration, the production effect can be improved.

(2) In the gaming machine of the above (1), the setting means can change the setting from the second state to the first state based on the detection result of the detection means (for example, the production control microcomputer 100 performs steps S7101 to S7101). The portion for executing the processing of S7111) may be performed.
According to such a configuration, the setting state can be easily changed.

(3) In the gaming machine of the above (1) or (2), the detecting means includes a player's first operation (for example, push operation of the push button 120 (single operation)) and second operation (for example, the push button 120). The setting means can change the setting from the second state to the first state based on the detection of the first action by the detection means, and the detection means can change the second operation. The setting may be changed from the first state to the second state based on the detected operation.
According to such a configuration, the setting state can be easily changed.

(4) In the gaming machine of any one of the above (1) to (3), a special effect (for example, based on the action detected by the detecting means in the special detection valid period not accompanied by a notification that prompts the player to perform the action) , A special effect execution means capable of executing a back button notice effect), and the setting means does not change the setting from the second state to the first state even if the operation is detected by the detection means in the special detection valid period (for example, The production control microcomputer 100 may execute the process of step S7108.
According to such a configuration, it is possible to prevent an unintended setting state from being changed.

(5) In any one of the above gaming machines (1) to (4), an effect setting capable of performing an effect setting (for example, setting of a background image) based on the action detected by the detecting means. The setting means does not change the setting from the second state to the first state even if an operation for performing the setting related to the effect is detected by the detecting means (for example, the effect control microcomputer 100 does not change the setting in step S7109). (Processing part)
According to such a configuration, it is possible to prevent an unintended setting state from being changed.

(6) In any one of the above gaming machines (1) to (5), the specific effect executing means can execute a plurality of types of specific effects (for example, button notice effects A to C, decision button effects, etc.). There may be different timings for executing the specific effects in the second state according to the type of the specific effects (see FIG. 33B).
According to such a configuration, the production effect can be improved.

(7) In the gaming machine according to any one of (1) to (6), the detection means includes an operation means (for example, push button 120) operable by the player, and the operation means is operable. The operation mode differs between when the specific effect is executed based on the detection result of the operation means and when the specific effect is executed regardless of the detection result of the operation means (for example, the effect control microcomputer 100 performs stepping). A portion for executing S8144 to S8144A and S8153, see FIGS. 43 (7) and 44 (7)).
According to such a configuration, the production effect can be improved.

(8) In any one of the above gaming machines (1) to (7), the specific effect execution means can execute the specific effect based on the action detected by the detection means during the detection valid period, and the setting The means does not change the setting from the first state to the second state even if an operation is detected by the detection means during the detection valid period (for example, a portion where the production control microcomputer 100 executes step S7102). Good.
According to such a configuration, it is possible to prevent an unintended setting state from being changed.

(9) In any one of the above gaming machines (1) to (8), a detection effective period display (for example, “push the button! ) And the like, and the detection effective period display is at least partly concealed by an effect (for example, an effect effect, a fade-out effect, a blackout effect, etc.). The detection effective period may end after a period in which the detection effective period display is in a visually difficult state.
According to such a configuration, it is possible to prevent the player from overlooking the detection valid period.

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 CPU in a main board | substrate performs. It is a flowchart which shows a 4 ms timer interruption process. It is explanatory drawing which shows each random number. It is explanatory drawing which shows a big hit determination table, a small hit determination table, and a big hit type determination table. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the content of an effect control command. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the content of an effect control command. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the program of a special symbol process process. 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 storage 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 change process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol stop process. It is a flowchart which shows a big hit end 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 a command analysis process. It is a flowchart which shows production control process processing. It is a flowchart which shows an auto button setting process. 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 an effect symbol. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of process data. It is a flowchart which shows a notification effect setting process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the specific example of a button notice effect determination table and a back button notice effect determination table. It is explanatory drawing which shows the specific example of the execution timing of each production | presentation, and the operation condition satisfaction timing when an auto button is effective. It is a flowchart which shows the process during effect design change. It is a flowchart which shows the process during effect design change. It is a flowchart which shows the process during effect design change. It is a flowchart which shows the process during effect design change. It is a flowchart which shows the process during effect design change. It is a flowchart which shows the process during effect design change. It is a flowchart which shows an effect design fluctuation stop process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the specific example of the display mode in the case of setting a function of an auto button to valid or invalid. It is explanatory drawing which shows the specific example of the display mode in the case of setting the function of an auto button and a background image from a setting menu screen. It is explanatory drawing which shows the specific example of the production | presentation aspect of a button notice effect in case the automatic continuous hit by an auto button function is performed. It is explanatory drawing which shows the specific example of the production | presentation aspect of the button notice effect when the automatic continuous hit by long press operation is performed. It is explanatory drawing which shows the specific example of the effect aspect of button notice effect C and a decision button effect. It is explanatory drawing which shows the comparative example of the automatic continuous hit by long press operation, and the automatic continuous hit by an auto button function. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the detection timing of operation in case operation detection is performed by the automatic continuous hit by long press operation. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the detection timing of operation in case operation detection is performed by the automatic continuous hit by long press operation. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the detection timing of operation when the push button has already been pressed at the time of the start of a button notice effect. It is explanatory drawing which shows the specific example in the case of performing an accessory effect and a button notice effect simultaneously.

Embodiment 1 FIG.
DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, a first embodiment of the 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 opened and closed. 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.

  The push button 120 is provided with a push button LED 29. The push button LED 29 can emit light in a plurality of modes, and emit light in a predetermined mode when the auto button function is set to be effective, as will be described later.

  In this embodiment, the push button 120 is provided integrally with the stick controller 122. Therefore, when the stick controller 122 is vibrated, the push button 120 is also vibrated. In addition, it is not restricted to such a structure, You may make it provide the stick controller 122 and the push button 120 separately, respectively.

  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 diversifying effects such as effects being performed and effects such that the movable object shields 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 reliably recognize whether or not. Note that the 4th symbol is always variably displayed with a constant operation, and is not disappeared from the screen or 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.

  When the big hit symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a, 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 loss. Sometimes it is displayed in blue, but it is displayed in red when it is a big hit, and the display color may be different depending on the type of big hit (whether it is a probable big hit or a normal big hit). The display color may be different depending on whether or not it is a big hit that can be expected to win a game ball to the big winning opening (for example, a big hit other than a sudden probability change big hit). If it is controllable, the display color may be changed according to the number of rounds continued in the jackpot game, and the number of rounds per jackpot is the same as in this embodiment. Even if there is, for example, the opening time of the big prize opening per round is short (for example, 1 second), and the big winnings per round and the big winning prize opening per round cannot be expected substantially. If the opening time is long (for example, 30 seconds) and there is a big hit that can be expected to win a game ball in the big winning opening, whether or not the game ball can be expected to win in the big winning opening. The display color may be different depending on the number of times, and for example, the number of opening of the big winning opening per round is different, so that it is possible to expect the winning of the game ball to the big winning opening. Even when there is a big hit that cannot be made, the display color may be made different depending on whether or not the game ball can be expected to substantially win the big winning opening.

  Further, when the big hit symbol is stopped and displayed on the second special symbol display 8b, the display color reminiscent of the big hit in the fourth symbol display area 9d for the second special symbol (display color different from the loss. Sometimes it is displayed in blue, but it is displayed in red when it is a big hit, and the display color may be different depending on the type of big hit (whether it is a probable big hit or a normal big hit). The display color may be different depending on whether or not it is a big hit that can be expected to win a game ball to the big winning opening (for example, a big hit other than a sudden probability change big hit). If it is controllable, the display color may be changed according to the number of rounds continued in the jackpot game, and the number of rounds per jackpot is the same as in this embodiment. Even if there is, for example, the opening time of the big prize opening per round is short (for example, 1 second), and the big winnings per round and the big winning prize opening per round cannot be expected substantially. If the opening time is long (for example, 30 seconds) and there is a big hit that can be expected to win a game ball in the big winning opening, whether or not the game ball can be expected to win in the big winning opening. The display color may be different depending on the number of times, and for example, the number of opening of the big winning opening per round is different, so that it is possible to expect the winning of the game ball to the big winning opening. Even when there is a big hit that cannot be made, the display color may be made different depending on whether or not the game ball can be expected to substantially win the big winning opening.

  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 awarded to the second starting 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. Nail is densely arranged around 13 or the nail arrangement around the first start winning opening 13 is difficult to guide the game ball 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.

  In addition, at the lower part of the display screen of the effect display device 9, there is provided a total pending storage display unit 18c for displaying the total number (total number of pending pending storage) that is the sum of the first reserved memory count and the second reserved memory count. ing. In this embodiment, since the total pending storage display unit 18c that displays the total number is provided as described above, it is easy to grasp the total number of execution conditions that have not met the variable display start condition. be able to. In addition, you may make it provide the 1st reservation memory display part which displays the 1st reservation memory number, and the 2nd reservation memory display part which displays the 2nd reservation memory number.

  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 when the specific display result (big hit symbol) is derived and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a, and the specific display result (big hit symbol) on the second special symbol display 8b. When the open / close plate is controlled to be open by the solenoid 21 in the specific game state (big hit game state) that occurs when the symbol is derived and displayed, the big winning opening serving as the winning area is opened. 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, the probability that the stop symbol in the normal symbol display 10 becomes a winning symbol is increased, and the opening time and the number of times of opening of the variable winning ball device 15 are increased. Even in the short state (the game state in which the variable display time of the special symbol is shortened) when the symbol variation time is shortened although it is not the probability variation state, the opening time and the number of times of opening of the variable winning ball device 15 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. The frame LED 28 can emit light in a plurality of modes. In this embodiment, the frame LED 28 can emit light in white, blue, green, and red.

  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 probability variation is a big hit, the game state is shifted to a high probability state (probability variation state), and the game ball is likely to start and win (that is, special symbol indicators 8a and 8b and effects). The display device 9 shifts to a high base state that is a gaming state controlled so that a variable display execution condition on the display device 9 is easily established (in this embodiment, shifts to a time-short state). In addition, when the gaming state is shifted to the short time state, the state is shifted to the high base state. 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 are increased when the stop symbol of the normal symbol is a winning symbol or the stop symbol of the special symbol is a probable symbol, which is disadvantageous for the player. It changes from a state to an advantageous state (a state where it is easy to start a prize). 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, the change time of special symbols and production symbols will be shortened by shifting to the short time state when the variation time (variable display period) of special symbols and production symbols is shortened. The frequency of being played (in other words, the digestion of the reserved memory becomes faster), and the situation where 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 making transitions to all the states shown above (open extended state, normal symbol probability change 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 is 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 supply created on the power supply board. 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 an ID number of the game control microcomputer 560 (an ID number assigned to each product of the game control microcomputer 560) stored in a predetermined storage area such as the ROM 54. The numerical data obtained in this way is set as the initial value of the numerical data that the random number circuit 503 updates. 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.

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

  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).

  Next, the operation of the gaming machine will be described. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing a main process executed by the game control microcomputer 560 on the main board 31. When power is supplied to the gaming machine and power supply is started, the input level of the reset terminal to which the reset signal is input becomes high level, and the gaming control microcomputer 560 (specifically, the CPU 56) After executing a security check process, which is a process for confirming whether the contents of the program are valid, the main process 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, the interrupt mode is set to interrupt mode 2 (step S2), and a stack pointer designation address is set to the stack pointer (step S3). After initialization of the built-in device (CTC (counter / timer) and PIO (parallel input / output port), which are built-in devices (built-in peripheral circuits)) is performed (step S4), the RAM is accessible (Step S5). In the interrupt mode 2, the address synthesized from the value (1 byte) of the specific register (I register) built in the CPU 56 and the interrupt vector (1 byte: least significant bit 0) output from the built-in device is This mode indicates an interrupt address.

  Next, the CPU 56 checks the state of the output signal (clear signal) of a clear switch (for example, mounted on the power supply board) input via the input port (step S6). When the ON is detected in the confirmation, the CPU 56 executes normal initialization processing (steps S10 to S15).

  If the clear switch is not on, check whether data protection processing of the backup RAM area (for example, power supply stop processing such as addition of parity data) was performed when power supply to the gaming machine was stopped (Step S7). When it is confirmed that such protection processing is not performed, the CPU 56 executes initialization processing. Whether there is backup data in the backup RAM area is confirmed, for example, by the state of the backup flag set in the backup RAM area in the power supply stop process.

  When it is confirmed that the power supply stop process has been performed, the CPU 56 performs data check of the backup RAM area (step S8). In this embodiment, a parity check is performed as a data check. Therefore, in step S8, the calculated checksum is compared with the checksum calculated and stored by the same process in the power supply stop process. 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 is 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, an initialization process that is executed when the power is turned on is not performed when the power supply is stopped.

  If the check result is normal, the CPU 56 recovers the game state restoration process (steps S41 to S43) 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. Process). 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 part that should not be initialized is, for example, data indicating the gaming state before the power supply is stopped (special symbol process flag, probability variation flag, time reduction flag, etc.), and the area where the output state of the output port is saved (output port buffer) ), A portion in which data indicating the number of unpaid prize balls is set.

  Further, the CPU 56 transmits a power failure recovery designation command as an initialization command at the time of power supply recovery (step S43). Further, the CPU 56 transmits a display result designation command designating a display result (usually big hit, probability change big hit, sudden probability change big hit, small hit or loss) stored in the backup RAM to the effect control board 80 (step). S44). Then, the process proceeds to step S14. In step S44, for example, when the value of a special symbol pointer (to be described later) is also stored in the backup RAM, the CPU 56 also transmits a first symbol variation designation command and a second symbol variation designation command (see FIG. 8). You may make it do. In this case, the production control microcomputer 100 may resume the variation display of the fourth symbol based on the reception of the first symbol variation designation command or the second symbol variation designation command.

  In this embodiment, the value of a variable time timer (to be described later) is also stored in the backup RAM area. Therefore, when the power failure is restored, after the display result designation command is transmitted in step S44, measurement of the saved variation time timer value is resumed, and the variation display of the special symbol is resumed and saved. When the value of the changed time timer has timed out, a symbol determination designation command to be described later is further transmitted. In this embodiment, a special symbol process flag value, which will be described later, is also stored in the backup RAM area. Therefore, when the power failure is recovered, the special symbol process is resumed from the process corresponding to the value of the stored special symbol process flag.

  Note that the display result designation command is not necessarily transmitted when the power failure is restored, but the CPU 56 may first confirm whether or not the value of the variable time timer stored in the backup RAM area is zero. . If the value of the variation time timer is not 0, it is determined that a power failure occurs during the variation, and a display result designation command is transmitted. It may be determined that the state has not been reached, and the display result designation command may not be transmitted.

  Further, the CPU 56 may first check whether or not the value of the special symbol process flag stored in the backup RAM area is 3. If the value of the special symbol process flag is 3, it is determined that the power failure occurs during the fluctuation, and a display result designation command is transmitted. If the special symbol process flag is not 3, the fluctuation occurs at the time of the power failure. The display result designation command may not be transmitted because it is determined that it is not in the middle.

  In this embodiment, it is confirmed whether the data in the backup RAM area is stored using both the backup flag and the check data. However, only one of them may be used. That is, either the backup flag or the check data may be used as an opportunity for executing the game state restoration process.

  In the initialization process, the CPU 56 first performs a RAM clear process (step S10). The RAM clear process initializes predetermined data (for example, count value data of a counter for generating a random number for normal symbol determination) to 0, but an arbitrary value or a predetermined value It may be initialized to. In addition, the entire area of the RAM 55 may not be initialized, and predetermined data (for example, count value data of a counter for generating a random number for normal symbol determination) may be left as it is. Further, the start 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 in steps S11 and S12, for example, a normal symbol per-determining random number counter, a special symbol buffer, a total prize ball number storage buffer, a special symbol process flag, and other flags for selectively performing processing according to the control state are initialized. Value is set.

  Further, the CPU 56 initializes a sub board (a board on which a microcomputer other than the main board 31 is mounted) (a command indicating that the game control microcomputer 560 has executed an initialization process). Is also transmitted to the sub-board (step S13). For example, when the effect control microcomputer 100 receives the initialization designation command, the effect display device 9 performs screen display for notifying that the control of the gaming machine has been performed, that is, initialization notification.

  Further, the CPU 56 executes a random number circuit setting process for initial setting of the random number circuit 503 (step S14). For example, the CPU 56 performs setting according to the random number circuit setting program to cause the random number circuit 503 to update the value of the random R.

  In step S15, the CPU 56 sets a CTC register built in the game control microcomputer 560 so that a timer interrupt is periodically generated every predetermined time (for example, 4 ms). 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 execution of the initialization process (steps S10 to S15) is completed, the CPU 56 repeatedly executes the display random number update process (step S17) and the initial value random number update process (step S18) in the main process. When executing the display random number update process and the initial value random number update process, the interrupt disabled state is set (step S16). When the display random number update process and the initial value random number update process are finished, the interrupt enabled state is set. Set (step S19). In this embodiment, the display random number is a random number for determining the stop symbol of the special symbol when it is not a big hit, or a random number for determining whether to reach when it is not a big hit, The random number update process is a process for updating the count value of the counter for generating the display random number. The initial value random number update process is a process for updating the count value of the counter for generating the initial value random number. In this embodiment, the initial value random number is the initial value of the count value of the counter for generating a random number for determining whether or not to win for a normal symbol (normal random number generation counter for normal symbol determination). It is a random number to determine. A game control process for controlling the progress of the game, which will be described later (the game control microcomputer 560 controls game devices such as an effect display device, a variable winning ball device, a ball payout device, etc. provided in the game machine itself. In the process of transmitting a command signal to be controlled by another microcomputer, or a game machine control process), the count value of the random number for determination per normal symbol is one round (the random number for determination per normal symbol is taken). When the value is incremented by the number of values between the minimum value and the maximum value of the possible values), an initial value is set in the counter.

  In this embodiment, the reach effect is executed using an effect symbol variably displayed on the effect display device 9. In addition, when the display result of the special symbol is a jackpot symbol, the reach effect is always executed. May be stopped). When the display result of the special symbol is not a jackpot symbol, the game control microcomputer 560 determines whether to execute the reach effect by performing a lottery to determine the variation pattern type and variation pattern using random numbers. To do. However, it is the production control microcomputer 100 that actually executes the reach production control.

  When the timer interrupt occurs, the CPU 56 executes the timer interrupt process of steps S20 to S34 shown in FIG. In the timer interrupt process, first, a power-off detection process for detecting whether or not a power-off signal is output (whether or not an on-state is turned on) is executed (step S20). The power-off signal is output, for example, when a power supply monitoring circuit mounted on the power supply board detects a decrease in the voltage of the power supplied to the gaming machine. In the power-off detection process, when detecting that the power-off signal has been output, the CPU 56 executes a power supply stop process for saving necessary data in the backup RAM area. Next, detection signals from the gate switch 32a, the first start port switch 13a, the second start port switch 14a, and the count switch 23 are input via the input driver circuit 58, and their state is determined (switch processing: step S21) ).

  Next, the CPU 56 has a first special symbol display 8a, a second special symbol display 8b, a normal symbol display 10, a first special symbol hold storage display 18a, a second special symbol hold storage display 18b, a normal symbol. A display control process for controlling the display of the on-hold storage display 41 is executed (step S22). About the 1st special symbol display 8a, the 2nd special symbol display 8b, and the normal symbol display 10, a drive signal is output with respect to each display according to the content of the output buffer set by step S32, S33. Execute control.

  Also, a process of updating the count value of each counter for generating each random number for determination such as a random number for determination per ordinary symbol used for game control is performed (determination random number update process: step S23). The CPU 56 further performs a process of updating the count value of the counter for generating the initial value random number and the display random number (initial value random number update process, display random number update process: steps S24 and S25).

  Further, the CPU 56 performs special symbol process processing (step S26). In the special symbol process, corresponding processing is executed according to a special symbol process flag for controlling the first special symbol indicator 8a, the second special symbol indicator 8b, and the special winning award in a predetermined order. The CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag according to the gaming state.

  Next, normal symbol process processing is performed (step S27). In the normal symbol process, the CPU 56 executes a corresponding process according to the normal symbol process flag for controlling the display state of the normal symbol display 10 in a predetermined order. The CPU 56 updates the value of the normal symbol process flag according to the gaming state.

  Further, the CPU 56 performs a process of sending an effect control command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (effect control command control process: step S28).

  Further, the CPU 56 performs information output processing for outputting data such as jackpot information, start information, probability variation information supplied to the hall management computer, for example (step S29).

  Further, the CPU 56 executes a prize ball process 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 S30). 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 this embodiment, a RAM area (output port buffer) corresponding to the output state of the output port is provided. However, the CPU 56 relates to on / off of the solenoid in the RAM area corresponding to the output state of the output port. The contents are output to the output port (step S31: output process).

  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 S32).

  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 S33). For example, when the start flag related to the variation of the normal symbol is set, the CPU 56 switches the display state (“◯” and “×”) for the variation rate of the normal symbol every 0.2 seconds until the end flag is set. With such a speed, the value of the display control data set in the output buffer (for example, 1 indicating “◯” and 0 indicating “x”) is switched every 0.2 seconds. Further, the CPU 56 outputs a normal signal on the normal symbol display 10 by outputting a drive signal in step S22 according to the display control data set in the output buffer.

  Thereafter, the interrupt permission state is set (step S34), 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 S33 (excluding step S29) 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 “normal shift”) when 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. Finally, the effect symbols are stopped and displayed in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” symbol display areas 9L, 9C, and 9R in the effect display device 9 (provided that the probability sudden hit is sudden) In some cases, the probability change big hit symbol (for example, “135”) is stopped and displayed without being reached).

  When “5”, which is a small hit, is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b, the effect display variable display mode is “suddenly probable big hit” on the effect display device 9. In the same manner as in the case where the effect symbol is variably displayed, a predetermined small hit symbol (the same symbol as the sudden probability variation big hit symbol, for example, "135") may be stopped and displayed. The display effect in the effect display device 9 corresponding to the fact that “5”, which is the small hit symbol, is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol indicator 8b is referred to as a “small hit” variable display mode. .

  Here, the small win is a hit that is allowed up to a small number of times that the big winning opening is opened compared to the big win (in this embodiment, the opening for 0.1 second is twice). When the small hit game ends, the game state does not change. That is, there is no transition from the probability variation state to the normal state or from the normal state to the certain variation state. In addition, the sudden probability change big hit is allowed up to a small number of times of opening of the big prize opening in the big hit gaming state (in this embodiment, the opening for 0.1 second is twice), but the opening time of the big prize opening is extremely large. It is a big hit that is a short jackpot and the game state after the big hit game is shifted to a probable state (that is, by doing so, it appears to the player as if it suddenly became a probable state) Is). In other words, in this embodiment, the sudden winning odds and the small wins have the same opening pattern of the big prize opening. By controlling in such a way, if the winning opening is opened twice for 0.1 seconds, it is impossible to recognize whether it is suddenly a big hit or a small hit, so a high probability state for the player (Probable change state) can be expected, and the interest of the game can be improved.

FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing each random number. Each random number is used as follows.
(1) Random 1 (MR1): Determines the type of jackpot (normal jackpot, probability variation jackpot, sudden probability variation jackpot 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 S23 in the game control process shown in FIG. 5, the game control microcomputer 560 uses a counter for generating (1) a big hit type determination random number and (4) a normal symbol determination random number. 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. 7A 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 jackpot determination table used in a normal state and a short time 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. 7 (A) is set in the normal jackpot determination table, and each value described in the right column of FIG. 7 (A) is set in the probability change jackpot determination table. Is set. The numerical value described in FIG. 7A is a jackpot determination value.

  7B and 7C are explanatory diagrams showing a small hit determination table. The small hit determination table is a collection of data stored in the ROM 54 and is a table in which a small hit determination value to be compared with the random R is set. The small hit determination table includes a small hit determination table (for the first special symbol) used when the variable display of the first special symbol is performed, and a small hit determination table used when the variable display of the second special symbol is performed. (For the second special symbol). Each value described in FIG. 7B is set in the small hit determination table (for the first special symbol), and in the small hit determination table (for the second special symbol), the values shown in FIG. Each numerical value listed is set. Also, the numerical values described in FIGS. 7B and 7C are small hit determination values.

  Note that it may be determined that a small hit is made only when the variable display of the first special symbol is performed, and the small hit may not be provided when the variable display of the second special symbol is performed. In this case, the small hit determination table for the second special symbol shown in FIG. In this embodiment, when the gaming state is shifted to the probability changing state, the variation display of the second special symbol is mainly executed. Even if the game state is shifted to the probability change state, a small hit will be generated, and if it is configured to produce an effect asking whether or not the probability change will occur, even though the current game state is the probability change state On the contrary, it makes the player feel annoying. Therefore, if it is configured so that the small hit does not occur during the variation display of the second special symbol, if the gaming state is the probability variation state, it is difficult for the small hit to occur and the excessive effect is not given to the probability variation. This can prevent the player from feeling annoyed.

  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, the special symbol is decided to be a big hit (a normal big hit, a probability variation big hit, and a sudden probability variation big hit described later). Further, when the big hit determination random number value matches one of the small hit determination values shown in FIGS. 7B and 7C, it is determined to make a small hit for the special symbol. Note that the “probability” shown in FIG. 7A indicates the probability (ratio) of a big hit. Further, “probabilities” shown in FIGS. 7B and 7C indicate the probability (ratio) of small hits. 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. Further, determining whether or not to make a small hit means determining whether or not to shift to the small hit gaming state, but stopping in the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b. It also means determining whether or not the symbol is to be a small hit symbol.

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 7B and 7C, when the small hit determination table (for the first special symbol) is used, the small hit is determined at a ratio of 1/300. On the other hand, when using the small hit determination table (second special symbol), a case where the small hit is determined at a ratio of 1/3000 will be described. Therefore, in this embodiment, when the start winning prize is given to the first start winning opening 13 and the first special symbol variation display is executed, the start winning prize is given to the second starting winning prize slot 14 and the second special symbol is displayed. The ratio determined as “small hit” is higher than when the variable display is executed.

  FIGS. 7D and 7E are explanatory diagrams showing the jackpot type determination tables 131 a and 131 b stored in the ROM 54. Among these, FIG. 7D determines the jackpot type using the holding memory based on the fact that the game ball has won the first start winning opening 13 (that is, when the first special symbol variation display is performed). This is a jackpot type determination table (for the first special symbol) 131a. FIG. 7E shows a case where the jackpot type is determined by using the holding memory based on the fact that the game ball has won the second start winning opening 14 (that is, when the variation display of the second special symbol is performed). 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 the random number (random 1) for determining the jackpot type, the jackpot type is set to “normal jackpot”, “ This table is referred to in order to determine one of “probability big hit” and “sudden probability big hit”. In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 7D and 7E, in the jackpot type determination table 131a, five determination values are assigned to “suddenly probable big hit” (40 minutes). Is determined to be a sudden probability change big hit at a rate of 5), whereas in the big hit type determination table 131b, one determination value is assigned to "sudden probability change big hit" (a ratio of 1/40) Will be suddenly determined to be a promising big hit). Therefore, in this embodiment, when the start winning prize is given to the first start winning opening 13 and the first special symbol variation display is executed, the start winning prize is given to the second starting winning prize slot 14 and the second special symbol is displayed. Compared with the case where the variable display is executed, the ratio determined as “suddenly probable big hit” is high. Note that “sudden probability variation big hit” is assigned only to the first special symbol jackpot type determination table 131a, and “sudden probability variation big hit” is not assigned to the second special symbol big hit type determination table 131b (ie. It may be determined that “suddenly probable big hit” may be determined only when the variable display of the first special symbol is performed.

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 7 (D) and 7 (E), a sudden probability variation jackpot as the first specific gaming state to which a predetermined amount of game value is given and an amount larger than the game value The first specific gaming state may be determined at a high rate when the first special symbol variation display is executed, and may be determined as a 15-round normal big hit or probable big hit as the second specific gaming state to which the game value is given. However, the game value to be given is not limited to the number of rounds as shown in this embodiment. For example, as compared with the first specific gaming state, the second specific gaming state in which the allowable amount of the winning number (count number) of game balls to the big winning opening per round is increased as the gaming value is determined. Also good. Further, for example, as compared with the first specific gaming state, the second specific gaming state in which the opening time of the big winning opening per game during the big hit may be determined as the gaming value. In addition, for example, even if the same 15 round big hits, the first specific gaming state that opens the big winning opening once per round and the second specific gaming state that opens the big winning opening multiple times per round It may be prepared to increase the gaming value of the second specific gaming state by substantially increasing the number of times the special winning opening is opened. In this case, for example, in any case of the first specific gaming state or the second specific gaming state, when the big winning opening is opened 15 times (in this case, all 15 rounds in the case of the first specific gaming state) In the case of the second specific gaming state, there is an undigested round remaining), and it is possible to execute an effect in such a manner as to inquire whether or not the jackpot continues further. And in the case of the first specific gaming state, all the 15 rounds have been finished internally, so the big hit game is finished, and in the case of the second specific gaming state, there remains an undigested round internally. For this reason, the jackpot game may be continued (the effect that the bonus winning opening is additionally started with a bonus after finishing the bonus hit of 15 times).

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 7D and 7E, the types of jackpots include “normal jackpot”, “probability variation jackpot”, and “sudden probability variation jackpot”. In this embodiment, the case where the number of rounds executed in the jackpot game is two types of 15 rounds and 2 rounds, but the number of rounds executed in the jackpot game is shown in this embodiment. Not limited to those. 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, there are three types of jackpot types, “normal jackpot”, “probability big hit”, and “sudden probability big hit”. However, the number is not limited to three, for example, four or more types. A big hit type may be provided. Conversely, the jackpot type may be less than three types, for example, only two types may be provided as the jackpot type.

  The “ordinary big hit” is a big hit that is controlled to the 15-round big hit gaming state and is shifted to the short-time state only after the big hit gaming state ends (see step S167 described later). Then, after shifting to the time reduction state, when the variable display is finished a predetermined number of times (100 times in this embodiment), the time reduction state is ended (see steps S168 and S137 to S140). Even if the variable display is not finished a predetermined number of times, the time saving state is also finished when the next big hit occurs (see step S132).

  The “probable big hit” is a big hit that is controlled to 15 rounds of the big hit gaming state and shifts to the probable change state after the big hit gaming state is finished (in this embodiment, it is changed to the probable change state and the short time state also (See steps S169 and S170 described later). Then, until the next big hit occurs, the probability variation state and the time reduction state continue (see step S132).

  In addition, “suddenly promising big hit” means that the number of times of opening the big prize opening is smaller than in “normal big hit” or “probable big hit” (in this embodiment, opening for 0.1 seconds is allowed twice). Is a big hit. In other words, when “suddenly promising big hit”, the game is controlled to a two round big hit gaming state. In addition, in “normal big hit” and “probable big hit”, the opening time of the big winning opening per round is as long as 29 seconds, whereas in “sudden probable big hit”, the opening time of the big winning opening per round is long. It is extremely short, 0.1 seconds, and it is almost impossible to expect a game ball to win a big winning opening during a big hit game. In this embodiment, after the sudden probability change big hit gaming state is finished, the state is changed to the probability change state (in this embodiment, the state is changed to the probability change state and also to the short time state. Step S169, which will be described later). (See S170). Then, until the next big hit occurs, the probability variation state and the time reduction state continue (see step S132).

  It should be noted that the mode of sudden probability change big hit is not limited to that shown in this embodiment. For example, the number of times the big winning opening is opened may be 15 times (15 rounds), which is the same as a normal big hit or suddenly probable big hit, and only the opening time of the big winning opening may be as short as 0.1 seconds.

  As described above, in this embodiment, even in the case of “small hit”, the big winning opening is opened twice for 0.1 seconds each, Similar control is performed. In the case of “small hit”, the game state does not change after the opening of the big winning opening twice, and the game state before “small hit” is maintained. By doing so, it is made impossible to recognize whether it is “suddenly promising big hit” or “small hit”, and the interest of the game is improved. Note that when the big hit types are all probable big hits, the small hits need not be provided. In addition, when all big hit types are probabilistic big hits, if you are configured to provide a small hit, suddenly probable big hits that do not involve a short-time state (high base state) just by shifting to a probable state (high probability state). (It is preferable that the opening pattern of the big prize opening is the same in the case of the sudden probability change big hit and the small win).

  The big hit type determination tables 131a and 131b are numerical values to be compared with a random 1 value, and corresponding to the “normal big hit”, “probability variable big hit”, and “sudden probable big hit” (big hit type determination value) ) Is set. 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. 8 and FIG. 9 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 FIGS. 8 and 9, the command 80XX (H) is an effect control command (variation pattern command) for designating 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 8C05 (H) are effect control commands indicating whether or not to make a big hit, whether or not to make a big hit, and a big hit type. The effect control microcomputer 100 determines the display result of the effect symbols in response to the reception of the commands 8C01 (H) to 8C05 (H), so the commands 8C01 (H) to 8C05 (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.

  The commands A001 to A003 (H) are effect control commands for displaying the fanfare screen, that is, designating the start of the big hit game (big hit start designation command: fanfare designation command). In this embodiment, a big hit start 1 designation command, a big hit start 2 designation command, or a small hit / sudden probability sudden change big hit start designation command is used according to the type of big hit. Specifically, when “ordinary big hit” is specified, the big hit start 1 designation command (A001 (H)) is used, and when “probable big hit”, the big hit start 2 designation command (A002 (H)) is used. In the case of “sudden probability change big hit” or “small hit”, a small hit / sudden probability change big hit start designation command (A003 (H)) is used. It should be noted that the game control microcomputer 560 may be configured to transmit a fanfare designation command for suddenly probable big hit start designation in the case of a sudden big hit, but not to send a fanfare designation command in the case of a small hit. Good.

  The command A1XX (H) is an effect control command (special command during opening of a special winning opening) indicating a display of the number of times (round) indicated by XX while the special winning opening is open. 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. For example, when executing the first round during the big hit game, a special winning opening opening designation command (A101 (H)) for specifying round 1 is transmitted, and when executing the tenth round during the big hit game. Is a special winning opening open designation command (A10A (H)) for designating round 10. 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. For example, when ending the first round during the big hit game, a designation command (A201 (H)) after the big winning opening is designated to designate round 1, and when the tenth round during the big hit game is ended. Is sent after a special winning opening opening command (A30A (H)) for designating round 10.

  Command A301 (H) is an effect control command for displaying the jackpot end screen, that is, the end of the jackpot game (a jackpot end 1 designation command: an ending 1 designation command). The big hit end 1 designation command (A301 (H)) is used when the big hit game by “normal big hit” is ended. Command A 302 (H) is an effect control command for displaying the jackpot end screen, that is, specifying the end of the jackpot game (a jackpot end 2 designation command: an ending 2 designation command). The jackpot end 2 designation command (A302 (H)) is used to end the jackpot game by the “probable big hit”. Command A 303 (H) is an effect control command (small hit / sudden probability sudden change big hit end designation command: ending 3 designation command) that designates the end of the small hit game or the sudden probability change big hit game. The game control microcomputer 560 is configured to transmit an ending designation command for suddenly probable big hit end designation in the case of sudden probable big hit, but not to send an ending designation command in the case of small hit. Also good.

  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 B002 (H) is an effect control command (time-short state background designation command) for designating a background display when the gaming state is the time-short 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.

  In this embodiment, as the hold memory information, an effect control command (first hold memory number addition designation indicating that the hold memory number has increased or decreased for the first hold memory number and the second hold memory number, respectively). Command, second reserved memory number addition designation command) is transmitted, but the form of the reserved memory information is not limited to that shown in this embodiment, and for example, the following types of reserved memory Information may be transmitted.

(1) Only one command is transmitted as the reserved storage information, and in the one command, which of the first reserved memory and the second reserved memory is increased is specified, and the increased number of reserved memories is increased (The first reserved memory number or the second reserved memory number) may be set as EXT data and transmitted.

(2) Only one command is transmitted as the hold storage information, and in the one command, which of the first hold storage and the second hold storage is increased is specified, and the total number of the hold storage is set to the EXT data. May be set and transmitted.

(3) Designate which of the first start winning opening 13 and the second starting winning opening 14 is won as the hold storage information (whether the first hold storage or the second hold storage has increased). In addition to transmitting the production control command (first start winning designation command, second start winning designation command), a reserved memory number designation command for designating the reserved memory number is transmitted separately. The total pending storage number may be set as EXT data for transmission.

(4) Designating which of the first start winning opening 13 and the second starting winning opening 14 the start winning prize (whether the first holding memory or the second holding memory has increased) is designated as the hold memory information In addition to transmitting the production control command (first start winning designation command, second start winning designation command), a reserved memory number designation command for designating the reserved memory number is transmitted separately. The increased reserved memory number (first reserved memory number or second reserved memory number) may be set and transmitted as EXT data.

(5) Instead of providing a reserved memory count subtraction designation command, a change pattern command is transmitted to indicate that the reserved memory count has decreased. In other words, when the production control board 80 receives the variation pattern command, it determines that the number of reserved memories has decreased and executes the processing.

  The effect control microcomputer 100 (specifically, the effect control CPU 101) mounted on the effect control board 80 receives the above-described effect control command 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 FIG. 8 and FIG. 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. 8 and FIG. 9, the variable pattern command and the display result designation command are displayed as variable display (variation) of the effect symbol corresponding to the variation of the first special symbol on the first special symbol display 8a and the second special symbol. 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.

  FIGS. 10 and 11 are flowcharts 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. FIG. 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 turns on the first start winning opening 13 when the first start opening switch 13a for detecting that the game ball has won the first start winning opening 13 is turned on. If a winning has occurred, a first start port switch passage process is executed (steps S311 and S312). If the second start port switch 14a for detecting that the game ball has won the second start winning port 14 is turned on, that is, the start winning to the second start winning port 14 has occurred. Then, the second start port switch passage process is executed (steps S313, S314). Then, any one of steps S300 to S310 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 S310 is performed according to the internal state.

  The processes in steps S300 to S310 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 the variable symbol special display can be started, the game control microcomputer 560 confirms the number of numerical data stored in the reserved storage buffer (total number of reserved storage). The stored number of numerical data stored in the hold storage buffer can be confirmed by the count value of the combined hold 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. Further, control is performed to transmit a variation pattern command corresponding to the determined variation pattern to the effect control microcomputer 100, and a variation time timer for measuring the variation time of the special symbol 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 small hit flag is set, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (8 in this example) corresponding to step S308. When neither the big hit flag nor the small hit flag is set, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S300 (in this example, 0). 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 (see FIG. 21), and the stop symbol of the special 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. In addition, control is performed to transmit the special winning opening open designation command to the production control microcomputer 100, the execution time of the special winning opening open processing is set by the timer, and the internal state (special symbol process flag) is set in step S306. To a value corresponding to (6 in this example). Note that the pre-opening process for the big prize opening is executed for each round, but when starting the first round, the pre-opening process for the big winning opening is also a process for starting the big hit game. In addition, 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 specified, a different command for opening a special prize opening is transmitted for each round. For example, when executing the first round during the big hit game, a special winning opening opening designation command (A101 (H)) for specifying round 1 is transmitted, and when executing the tenth round during the big hit game. Is a special winning opening open designation command (A10A (H)) for designating round 10.

  Large winning opening opening process (step S306): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 6. In the special prize opening opening process, a process for confirming the establishment of the closing condition of the special prize opening is 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. In addition, control is performed to transmit the designation command after the big hit release to the effect control microcomputer 100, and when all rounds are completed, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is set to a value corresponding to step S307 (this In the example, update to 7).

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

  Small hit release pre-processing (step S308): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 8. In the pre-opening process for small hits, control is performed to open the big prize opening. 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 S309 (9 in this example). Note that the pre-opening process for small hits is executed every time the big winning opening during the small hit game is opened. It is also a process to start.

  Small hit release processing (step S309): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 9. Processing to confirm the establishment of the closing condition of the big prize opening is performed. When the closing condition of the big prize opening is satisfied and the number of opening of the big prize opening still remains, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is set to a value (8 in this example) corresponding to step S308. Update. In addition, when all the releases are completed, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (10 in this example) corresponding to step S310.

  Small hit end process (step S310): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 10. Control is performed to cause the microcomputer 100 for effect control to perform display control for notifying the player that the small hit gaming state has ended. 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 steps S312 and S314. Among these, FIG. 12A is a flowchart showing the first start port switch passing process in step S312. FIG. 12B is a flowchart showing the second start port switch passing process in step S314.

  First, the first start port switch passing process will be described with reference to FIG. In the first start port switch passage process that is executed when the first start port switch 13a is on, the CPU 56 first determines whether or not the first reserved memory number has reached the upper limit (specifically, the first Whether or not the value of the first reserved memory number counter for counting the number of one reserved memory is 4 is confirmed (step S1211A). If the first reserved storage number has reached the upper limit value, the processing is terminated as it is.

  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 S1212A), and the value of the total reserved memory number counter for counting the total reserved memory number Is increased by 1 (step S1213A). 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 S1214A). . In the process of step S1214A, 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 random number for random pattern determination (random 3) is not extracted in the first start port switch passing process (at the time of start winning) and stored in the storage area in advance, but is extracted at the start of fluctuation of the first special symbol. You may do it. 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.

  FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of an area (holding storage buffer) for storing random numbers and the like corresponding to holding storage. 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 addition, a storage area corresponding to the upper limit value of the second reserved storage number (4 in this example) is secured in the second reserved storage buffer. 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 S1215A).

  Next, the second start port switch passing process will be described with reference to FIG. In the second start port switch passing process executed when 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 hold port number). Whether or not the value of the second reserved memory number counter for counting the memory number is 4 is confirmed (step S1211B). 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 S1212B), and the value of the aggregated reserved memory number counter for counting the total reserved memory number Is increased by 1 (step S1213B). 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 the storage area in the second reserved storage buffer (see FIG. 13) (step S1214B). . Note that in the process of step S1214B, 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 random number for random pattern determination (random 3) is not extracted in the second start port switch passing process (at the time of start winning) and stored in the storage area in advance, but is extracted at the start of the variation of the second special symbol. You may do it. 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 S1215B).

  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 random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the first reserved memory number = 1 in the first reserved memory buffer. Is stored in the random number buffer area of the RAM 55. In addition, when the special symbol pointer indicates “second”, the CPU 56 reads out each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the second reserved memory number = 1 in the second reserved memory buffer. Store 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 subtracts 1 from the count value of the first reserved memory number counter, and in the reserved specific area and the first reserved memory buffer. Shift the contents of each storage area. In addition, 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 reserved specific area and the second reserved memory buffer are shifted. To do.

  That is, when the special symbol pointer indicates “first”, the CPU 56 stores the first reserved memory number = n (n = 2, 3, 4) in the first reserved memory buffer of the RAM 55. Each stored random number value is stored in a storage area corresponding to the first reserved storage number = n−1. Further, when the special symbol pointer indicates “second”, each stored in the storage area corresponding to the second reserved memory number = n (n = 2, 3, 4) in the second reserved memory buffer of the RAM 55. The random value is stored in the storage area corresponding to the second reserved memory number = n−1. In addition, the CPU 56 adds the values (values indicating “first” or “second”) stored in the storage area corresponding to the total reserved storage number = m (m = 2 to 8) in the reserved specific area. Store in the storage area corresponding to the number of reserved storage = m−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. Further, the order in which the values stored in the respective storage areas corresponding to the total number of pending storages are extracted always matches the order of the total number of pending storages = 1-8.

  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. In addition, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a time-short state background designation command when only the time-short flag indicating the time-short state is set and the probability variation flag is not set. If neither the probability change flag nor the time reduction flag is set, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a normal state background designation command.

  Specifically, when the CPU 56 transmits an effect control command to the effect control microcomputer 100, the address of the command transmission table corresponding to the effect control command (preliminarily set for each command in the ROM) is given. Set to pointer. And the address of the command transmission table according to an effect control command is set to a pointer, and an effect control command is transmitted in an effect control command control process (step S28). In this embodiment, when the change of the special symbol is started, the background designation command, the fluctuation pattern command, the display result designation command, the reserved memory number subtraction designation command (the first reserved memory number subtraction) for each timer interrupt. The designation command or the second reserved memory number subtraction designation command) is transmitted to the effect control microcomputer 100 in this order. 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 number subtraction designation command (a first pending storage number subtraction designation command or a second pending storage number 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 S310 can be made common between the case of targeting the first special symbol and the case of targeting the second special symbol.

  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 is for determining the big hit that has been extracted in step S1214A of the first start port switch passing process or step S1214B of the second start port switch passing process and previously stored in the first hold memory buffer or the second hold memory buffer. A random number is read and a big hit judgment is performed. The big hit determination module compares the big hit determination value or the small hit determination value (see FIG. 7) determined in advance with the big hit determination random number, and executes a process of determining to be a big hit or a small hit if they match. It is a program to do. That is, it is a program that executes a big hit determination or a small hit determination process.

  The jackpot determination process is configured such that when the gaming state is in a probable change state, the probability of winning a big hit is higher than in the case where the gaming state is in a non-probability change state (a normal state or a short time state). Specifically, a jackpot determination table (a table in which the numerical value on the right side of FIG. 7A 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. 7A in the ROM 54 are set) set to be smaller than the hour 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 it is in the 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. 7A, the CPU 56 determines that the special symbol is a big hit. When it is determined to be a big hit (step S61), the process proceeds to step S71. 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 “probability big hit” or “sudden probability big hit”, and is set in the process of ending the big hit game. Then, after the jackpot game is over, it is reset when the next jackpot occurs.

  If the value of the big hit determination random number (random R) does not match any of the big hit determination values (N in step S61), the CPU 56 uses the small hit determination table (see FIGS. 7B and 7C). Then, the small hit determination process is performed. That is, when the value of the big hit determination random number (random R) matches one of the small hit determination values shown in FIGS. 7B and 7C, the CPU 56 determines that the special symbol is a small hit. In this case, the CPU 56 confirms the data indicated by the special symbol pointer. If the data indicated by the special symbol pointer is “first”, the small hit determination table (for the first special symbol) shown in FIG. ) To determine whether or not to make a small hit. When the data indicated by the special symbol pointer is “second”, it is determined whether or not to make a small hit using the small hit determination table (for the second special symbol) shown in FIG. . If it is determined to be a small hit (step S62), the CPU 56 sets a small hit flag indicating a small hit (step S63), and proceeds to step S75.

  If the random R value does not match either the big hit determination value or the small hit determination value (N in step S62), that is, if it is out of place, the process proceeds to step S75 as it is.

  In step S71, 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 S72). 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. 7D. 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.

  Next, the CPU 56 uses the selected jackpot type determination table to select a type (“normal jackpot”, “probability change”) corresponding to the value of the random number for random determination (random 1) stored in the random number buffer area. "Big hit" or "Suddenly probable big hit") is determined as the type of big hit (step S73). In this case, the CPU 56 determines the jackpot type extracted in step S1214A of the first start port switch passing process or step S1214B of the second start port switch passing process and stored in advance in the first hold memory buffer or the second hold memory buffer. The random number is read and the jackpot type is determined. Further, in this case, as shown in FIGS. 7D and 7E, when the variable display of the first special symbol is executed, it is compared with the case where the variable display of the second special symbol is executed. Therefore, the rate at which suddenly probable big hits are selected is high.

  Further, the CPU 56 sets data indicating the determined jackpot type in the jackpot type buffer in the RAM 55 (step S74). For example, when the big hit type is “normal big hit”, “01” is set as data indicating the big hit type, and when the big hit type is “probable big hit”, “02” is set as the data indicating the big hit type, When the big hit type is “suddenly probable big hit”, “03” is set as data indicating the big hit type.

  Next, the CPU 56 determines a special symbol stop symbol (step S75). Specifically, when neither the big hit flag nor the small hit flag is set, “−” which is a loss symbol is determined as a special symbol stop symbol. When the big hit flag is set, one of “1”, “3”, and “7”, which is a big hit symbol, is determined as a special symbol stop symbol according to the determination result of the big hit type. That is, when the big hit type is determined to be “suddenly promising big hit”, “1” is decided as a special symbol stop symbol, and when “normal big hit” is decided, “3” is decided as a special symbol stop symbol. If “probable big hit” is determined, “7” is determined as a special symbol stop symbol. When the small hit flag is set, “5” as the small hit symbol is determined as the 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 S76).

  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 selects one of the big hit variation pattern type determination table as a table used to determine the variation pattern type as one of a plurality of types (step) S92). Then, the process proceeds to step S100.

  When the big hit flag is not set, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the small hit flag is set (step S93). If the small hit flag is set, the CPU 56 selects the small hit variation pattern type determination table as a table used to determine the variation pattern type as one of a plurality of types (step S94). ). Then, the process proceeds to step S100.

  When the small hit flag is not set, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the time reduction flag indicating that the time reduction state is set (step S95). The time reduction flag is set when the gaming state is shifted to the probability change state or the time reduction state, and is reset when the time reduction state ends. Specifically, when it is determined to be “ordinary jackpot”, the time reduction flag is set in the process of ending the jackpot game. In addition, after the big hit game is over, it is reset when the variable display is finished a predetermined number of times (in this embodiment, 100 times). Even before the end of the predetermined number of fluctuation displays, the hourly flag is reset even when the next big hit occurs. Further, when it is determined to be “probability big hit” or “sudden probability big hit”, the probability variation flag is set and the time-short flag is set in the process of ending the big hit game. When the next big hit occurs, the time reduction flag is reset together with the probability variation flag.

  If the time flag is not set (N in Step S95), the CPU 56 checks whether or not the total number of pending storages is 3 or more (Step S96). If the total number of pending storages is less than 3 (N in step S96), the CPU 56 uses the normal variation pattern type determination as a table used to determine any one of a plurality of variation pattern types. A table is selected (step S97). Then, the process proceeds to step S100.

  When the total number of pending storages is 3 or more (Y in step S96), the CPU 56 uses the shortening variation pattern as a table used to determine the variation pattern type as one of a plurality of types. A type determination table is selected (step S98). Then, the process proceeds to step S100.

  If the time reduction flag is set (Y in step S95), that is, if the gaming state is a probability change state or a time reduction state (in this embodiment, the time reduction state is always set when the state is changed to the probability change state. (Refer to steps S169 and S170), if it is determined as Y in step S95, the CPU 56 may change the variation pattern type. As a table used to determine one of a plurality of types, a time-varying variation pattern type determination table for time reduction is selected (step S99). Then, the process proceeds to step S100.

  In this embodiment, by executing the processing of steps S95 to S99, if the gaming state is the normal state and the total number of pending storages is 3 or more, the loss variation pattern type determination table for shortening Is selected. Further, when the gaming state is a probability change state or a time-short state, a time-varying variation pattern type determination table for time reduction is selected. In this case, the variation pattern type including the variation pattern of the shortened variation may be determined as the variation pattern type in the process of step S100 described later, and when the variation pattern type including the variation pattern of the shortened variation is determined, The variation pattern of the shortening variation is determined as the variation pattern in the process of step S102. Therefore, in this embodiment, when the game state is a probability change state or a short time state, or when the total number of pending storages is 3 or more, a change display of a shortened change may be performed.

  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, S94, S97, S98 or S99. By referring to the table, the variation pattern type is determined as one of a plurality of types (step S100).

  Next, the CPU 56 uses a hit variation pattern determination table or a deviation variation pattern determination table as a table used to determine one of a plurality of types of variation patterns based on the determination result of the variation pattern type in step S100. Is selected (step S101). 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 step S101. Is determined as one of a plurality of types (step S102). 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 S103). 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 change pattern to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S104).

  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 S105). 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 S106).

  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 transmits one of the presentation control commands (display result 1 designation to display result 5 designation) (see FIG. 8) in accordance with the determined big hit type, small hit, and loss. Control. Specifically, the CPU 56 first checks whether or not the big hit flag is set (step S110). If not set, the process proceeds to step S116. When the big hit flag is set, if the type of the big hit is “normal big hit”, control is performed to transmit a display result 2 designation command (steps S111 and S112). Whether or not it is “ordinary big hit” can be specifically determined by checking whether or not the data set in the big hit type buffer in step S74 of the special symbol normal processing is “01”. . Further, when the big hit type is “probability big hit”, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a display result 3 designation command (steps S113 and S114). Whether or not it is “probable big hit” can be specifically determined by checking whether or not the data set in the big hit type buffer in step S74 of the special symbol normal processing is “02”. . Then, when neither the “normal big hit” nor the “probable change big hit” (that is, “suddenly probable big hit”), the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a display result 4 designation command (step S115).

  On the other hand, when the big hit flag is not set (N in Step S110), the CPU 56 checks whether or not the small hit flag is set (Step S116). If the small hit flag is set, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a display result 5 designation command (step S117). When the small hit flag is not set (N in Step S116), that is, when it is out of place, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a display result 1 designation command (Step S118).

  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 S119).

  FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing the special symbol changing process (step S303) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol changing process, the CPU 56 first confirms whether or not a reserved memory number subtraction designation command (first reserved memory number subtraction designation command or second reserved memory number subtraction designation command) has already been transmitted ( Step S1121). Whether or not the pending storage number subtraction designation command has already been transmitted indicates whether or not the pending storage number subtraction designation command has been transmitted when the pending storage number subtraction designation command is transmitted in step S1122, which will be described later, for example. The stored number subtraction designation command transmission completion flag may be set, and in step S1121, it may be confirmed whether or not the pending storage number subtraction designation command transmission completion flag is set. Also, in this case, the set reserved memory number subtraction designation command transmission completion flag is reset by special symbol stop processing or jackpot end processing, which will be described later, when the special symbol fluctuation display is terminated or when the big jackpot is terminated. That's fine.

  Next, if the reserved memory number subtraction designation command has not been transmitted, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit the reserved memory number subtraction designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S1122). In this case, when a value indicating “first” is set in the special symbol pointer, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a first reserved memory number subtraction designation command. If a value indicating “second” is set in the special symbol pointer, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a second reserved memory number subtraction designation command.

  Next, the CPU 56 subtracts 1 from the variable time timer (step S1125). When the variable time timer times out (step S1126), the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a symbol confirmation designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S1127). Then, the CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the special symbol stop process (step S304) (step S1128). If the variable time timer has not timed out, the process ends.

  FIG. 19 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). When the big hit flag is set, the CPU 56 resets the probability change flag indicating the probability change state and the time reduction flag indicating the time reduction state, if set (step S132). Control to send a big hit start designation command to the microcomputer 100 is performed (step S133). Specifically, when the type of jackpot is “normal jackpot”, a jackpot start 1 designation command (command A001 (H)) is transmitted. If the type of jackpot is “probable big hit”, a jackpot start 2 designation command (command A002 (H)) is transmitted. When the big hit type is sudden probability change big hit, a small hit / sudden probability change big hit start designation command (command A003 (H)) is transmitted. Whether the big hit type is “normal big hit”, “probable big hit” or “suddenly probable big hit” is data indicating the big hit type stored in the RAM 55 (data stored in the big hit type buffer) Based on the determination.

  In addition, a value corresponding to the jackpot display time (a time for which the effect display device 9 notifies that the jackpot has occurred, for example) is set in the jackpot display time timer (step S134). In addition, the number of times of opening (for example, “15 times in case of“ normal big hit ”or“ probable big hit ”, 2 times in case of“ suddenly promising big hit ”) is set in the big prize opening number counter (step S135). . The round time per round in the big hit game is also set. Specifically, in the case of sudden probability change big hit, 0.1 seconds is set as the round time, and in the case of normal big hit or probability change big hit, 29 seconds is set as the round time. Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the pre-winner opening pre-processing (step S305) (step S136).

  On the other hand, if the big hit flag is not set in step S131, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the hourly number counter that indicates the number of times that the special symbol can be changed in the timeless state is 0 (step S137). If the value of the time reduction counter is not 0, the CPU 56 decrements the value of the time reduction counter by −1 (step S138). When the value of the time reduction counter after subtraction becomes 0 (step S139), the CPU 56 resets the time reduction flag (step S140).

  Next, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the small hit flag is set (step S141). If the small hit flag is set, the CPU 56 transmits a small hit / sudden probability sudden change big hit start command (command A003 (H)) to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S142). In addition, a value corresponding to the small hit display time (for example, the time when the effect display device 9 notifies that the small hit has occurred) is set in the small hit display time timer (step S143). Further, the number of times of opening (for example, 2 times) is set in the special winning opening opening number counter (step S144). In addition, the opening time per time of the big winning opening in the small hit game is set. Specifically, 0.1 seconds which is the same as the round time for the sudden probability change big hit is set as the opening time for one big winning opening in the small hit game. Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the small hit start pre-processing (step S308) (step S145).

  If the small hit flag is not set (N in step S141), 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 S146).

  FIG. 20 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, when it is “normal jackpot”, a jackpot end 1 designation command (command A301 (H)) is transmitted, and when it is “probable big hit”, jackpot end 2 designation command (command A302 (H)) is transmitted. ) Is transmitted, and in the case of “sudden probability sudden change big hit”, a small hit / sudden probability sudden change big hit end designation command (command A303 (H)) is sent. 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 big hit end display timer (step S164). 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 checks whether or not the big hit that ends this time is a normal big hit (step S166). Whether or not it is “ordinary big hit” can be specifically determined by checking whether or not the data set in the big hit type buffer in step S74 of the special symbol normal processing is “01”. . If it is a normal big hit, the CPU 56 sets a time reduction flag and shifts to a time reduction state (step S167). Further, the CPU 56 sets a predetermined number of times (for example, 100 times) in the time reduction number counter (step S168).

  If it is not a normal big hit (that is, if the probability variation big hit or sudden probability variation big hit), the CPU 56 sets the probability variation flag to shift to the probability variation state (step S169) and sets the time reduction flag to shift to the time reduction state. (Step S170).

  Then, 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. 21 is a flowchart showing an example of a special symbol display control process (step S32) 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 (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 special symbol display control data for performing variable display of the special symbol (the first special symbol or the second special symbol) indicated by the special symbol pointer. For example, if the fluctuation speed is 1 frame / 0.2 seconds, 1 is added to the value of the special symbol display control data set in the output buffer 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 or not the value of the special symbol process flag is 4 (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 stop symbol of the special symbol (the first special symbol or the second special symbol) indicated by the special symbol pointer. 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 special symbol display control data is set in the output buffer according to the value of the special symbol process flag. However, in the special symbol process, the start flag is set at the start of the variation of the special symbol. 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 S32), 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. 22 is a flowchart showing main processing 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.

  Next, 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. 23 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. 8 and 9) 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.

  FIG. 24 is a flowchart illustrating a specific example of command analysis processing (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 why the value is incremented by 2 is that two bytes (one command) are read out.

  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 5 designation command) in the RAM. Is stored in the display result designation command storage area (step S618).

  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).

  If the received effect control command is any jackpot start designation command (step S621), the effect control CPU 101 sets a jackpot start designation command reception flag corresponding to the received jackpot start designation command (step S622). Specifically, the effect control CPU 101 sets a jackpot start 1 designation command reception flag when a jackpot start 1 designation command (command A001 (H)) is received, and sets the jackpot start 2 designation command (command A002 ( H)) is received, the big hit start 2 designation command reception flag is set, and the small hit / sudden probability sudden change big hit start designation command (command A003 (H)) is received. Set the start specification command reception flag.

  If the received effect control command is any jackpot end designation command (step S623), the effect control CPU 101 sets a jackpot end designation command reception flag corresponding to the received jackpot end designation command (step S624). Specifically, if the CPU 101 for effect control receives a jackpot end 1 designation command (command A301 (H)), it sets a jackpot end 1 designation command reception flag and sets a jackpot end 2 designation command (command A302 ( H)) is received, the big hit end 2 designation command reception flag is set, and the small hit / sudden probability sudden change big hit end designation command (command A303 (H)) is received, the small hit / sudden probability sudden change big hit. Set the end specification command reception flag.

  If the received effect control command is another command, effect control CPU 101 sets a flag corresponding to the received effect control command (step S625). Then, control goes to a step S611. For example, the effect control CPU 101 sets the first symbol variation designation command reception flag when receiving the first symbol variation designation command, and receives the second symbol variation designation command when receiving the second symbol variation designation command. Set the reception flag.

  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 executes an auto button setting process for setting whether to enable or disable an auto button function to be described later (step S710). Then, any one of steps S800 to S807 is performed 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 the jackpot display process (step S804) or the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800).

  Big hit display process (step S804): After the end of the variation time, control is performed to display a screen for notifying the effect display device 9 of the occurrence of the big hit. 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. If the round end condition is satisfied, if the final round has not ended, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the post-round processing (step S806). If the final round has ended, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the jackpot end process (step S807).

  Post-round processing (step S806): Display control between rounds is performed. When the round start condition is satisfied, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the in-round process (step S805).

  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. 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 the auto button setting process (step S710) in the effect control process shown in FIG.

  In this embodiment, the “auto button” is a function that executes the processing assuming that the push button 120 is operated although the push button 120 is not actually operated by the player. In this embodiment, the button notice effect is executed during the change display of the effect symbol, and the notice display is displayed based on the detection of the single operation or the repeated operation of the push button 120 in the button notice effect. When the function of the button is set to be effective, even if the push button 120 is not operated, the process is executed as if the push button 120 is operated once or repeatedly in the button notice effect, and the notice display is displayed. indicate. In this embodiment, the single operation is that the push button 120 is operated once, and the continuous operation is that the push button 120 is operated continuously a plurality of times.

  Further, in this embodiment, “automatic continuous hit” means that the push button 120 is actually continuously pressed (long pressed) by the player, but the push button 120 is also pressed multiple times. This is a function of detecting that the button is continuously pressed (struck continuously (a state where the push button 120 is pressed and a state where the push button 120 is not pressed is repeated a plurality of times)). In this embodiment, when the function of the auto button is disabled, a notice display may be displayed based on the detection of the continuous operation of the push button 120 in the button notice effect, but the push button 120 is pressed and held for a long time. Even in the case where it is, a notice display is displayed as if the continuous hitting operation has been detected.

  In this embodiment, apart from the button notice effect, a back button notice effect that causes the frame LED 28 to emit light in a predetermined manner is provided based on the detection of the operation of the push button 120 during the operation valid period. . In the button notice effect, when the operation valid period starts, a notification indicating that the operation is valid or for prompting the operation is performed, while in the back button notice effect, the operation valid period (hereinafter referred to as the button notice effect). Even when a special operation effective period is started to distinguish from the operation effective period in (2), notification that the operation is effective or that prompts the operation is not performed. Therefore, in the back button notice effect, there is a way of enjoying that the special operation valid period is found and executed. From this characteristic of the back button notice effect, in this embodiment, even if the function of the auto button is enabled, if the operation of the push button 120 is not detected during the special operation valid period, The control for causing the frame LED 28 to emit light in a predetermined manner by the back button notice effect is not performed.

  In this embodiment, by executing the auto button setting process, an arbitrary timing (for example, a period during which a customer waiting demonstration display is being performed, a period during which a production symbol is being varied, a period during which a jackpot game is being played) ) Based on the operation of the push button 120, it is possible to set whether to enable or disable the function of the auto button. In this embodiment, the automatic continuous hitting function is always valid. However, as with the auto button function, it may be configured to enable or disable the setting.

  In the auto button setting process, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not an auto button valid flag indicating that the auto button function is valid is set (step S7101).

  When it is determined that the auto button valid flag is not set (N in step S7101), the effect control CPU 101 sets the operation valid period flag indicating that the operation is valid for the button notice effect. It is confirmed whether or not there is (step S7102). If the operation valid period flag is set, the auto button setting process is terminated.

  If it is determined that the flag during the operation valid period is not set (N in step S7102), the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not a long push operation of the push button is detected (step S7103). If the push button long press operation is not detected, the auto button setting process is terminated. Whether or not a push button long press operation is detected, for example, in a timer interrupt, if a push operation of the push button 120 is detected, an operation detection flag is set, and if a push operation is not detected, an operation detection flag is set. So that it is determined that a long press operation has been detected when the operation detection flag is set and the state in which the push operation of the push button 120 is detected continues for a predetermined period of time. It may be.

  When a long push operation of the push button is detected (Y in step S7103), the effect control CPU 101 sets an auto button valid flag (step S7104).

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 performs control to display an auto button valid display indicating that the function of the auto button is valid on the effect display device 9 (step S7105). Further, the production control CPU 101 performs control to output an auto button effective sound effect indicating that the auto button function is valid (step S7106). Further, the effect control CPU 101 performs control for causing the push button LED 20 to emit light in a special light emission mode (for example, red light emission) different from the normal light emission mode (for example, white light emission) (step S7107).

  If it is determined that the auto button valid flag is set (Y in step S7101), the effect control CPU 101 sets a special operation valid period flag indicating that the special operation valid period is in the back button notice effect. It is confirmed whether it is set (step S7108). If the special operation valid period flag is set, the auto button setting process is terminated.

  If it is determined that the special operation valid period flag is not set (N in step S7108), the effect control CPU 101 checks whether a setting menu display flag, which will be described later, is set (step S7109). If it is set, the auto button setting process is terminated.

  When the setting menu display flag is not set (N in step S7109), the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not a push button pressing operation (single operation) is detected (step S7110). If the push button pressing operation (single operation) is not detected, the auto button setting process is terminated.

  When a push button pressing operation (single operation) is detected (Y in step S7110), the effect control CPU 101 resets the auto button valid flag (step S7111).

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 performs control to display on the effect display device 9 an auto button invalid display indicating that the function of the auto button is invalid (step S7112). Further, the production control CPU 101 performs control to output an auto button invalid sound effect (a sound effect different from the auto button effective sound effect) indicating that the function of the auto button is invalid (step S7113). In addition, the effect control CPU 101 performs control to cause the push button LED 20 to emit light in the normal light emission mode (step S7114).

  In this embodiment, by executing the auto button setting process shown in FIG. 26, the function of the auto button can be set to be valid or invalid at an arbitrary timing. Specifically, when the player performs a long press operation on the push button 120 when the auto button function is invalid, the player can set the auto button function to be valid (see steps S7101, S7103, and S7104). ) If the push button 120 is pressed (single operation) while the auto button function is enabled, the auto button function can be set to be invalid (see steps S7101, S7110, S7111). With such a configuration, it is possible to easily change the setting of the auto button function not only during the period during which the customer waiting demonstration is being displayed, but also during the period in which the production symbols are changing or during the jackpot game. Can do. That is, it is possible to easily change the setting of the auto button function without interrupting the game once, and it is possible to prevent the interest from being lowered due to the interruption.

  However, in this embodiment, there is an exceptional period in which the setting change of the auto button function is not accepted. For example, when the function of the auto button is disabled, a long press operation may be performed to display a notice display during the operation valid period of the button notice effect. When the function setting is changed, a setting change unintended by the player is performed. Therefore, in this embodiment, when the operation valid period flag is set, that is, during the operation valid period in the button notice effect, even if the long press operation of the push button 120 is detected, the auto button It is configured not to change the function from invalid to valid (see step S7102). With such a configuration, it is possible to prevent an unintended change in the function setting of the auto button.

  Note that the player performs predetermined control based on the detection of the pressing operation (single operation) during the special operation effective period in the back button notice effect or the operation effective period in the decision button effect described later. Does not require long press operation. However, since it is assumed that the intention to perform the single operation is a long press operation as a result, in step S7102, it is during the special operation effective period in the back button notice effect or the operation effective period in the decision button effect. Even in the case (that is, when the special operation valid period flag or the later-described decision button effect period flag is set), even if the push button 120 is pressed for a long time, the function of the auto button is disabled and enabled. You may comprise so that it may not change to. Similarly, a single operation of the push button 120 may be performed in order to change the setting related to the production from the setting menu described later, but it is also assumed that the intention to perform the single operation is a long press operation. In step S7102, when the setting menu display flag indicating that the setting menu is being displayed is set, and the long press operation of the push button 120 is detected, the function of the auto button is disabled and enabled. You may comprise so that it may not change.

  In this embodiment, even if the function of the auto button is valid, the push button 120 must be pressed to execute the back button notice effect. Therefore, an operation for executing the back button notice effect may be performed during the special operation valid period in the back button notice effect. Therefore, when the special operation valid period flag is set, that is, during the special operation valid period in the back button notice effect, even if the push button 120 is pressed, the auto button function is activated. It is configured not to be changed to invalid (see step S7108). With such a configuration, it is possible to prevent an unintended change in the function setting of the auto button.

  In this embodiment, the push button 120 may be pressed to set an auto button or a background image from a setting menu described later. Therefore, in this embodiment, when the setting menu display flag is set, that is, when the auto button setting or the background image setting is performed from the setting menu, the pressing operation of the push button 120 is detected. Even so, the auto button function is not changed from valid to invalid (see step S7109). With such a configuration, it is possible to prevent an unintended change in the function setting of the auto button.

  Further, in this embodiment, when the auto button function is enabled, the button notice effect is started, and when the player operates the push button 120 according to the button notice effect, The function of the button is changed from valid to invalid (for example, realized by the processing of steps S7101, S7108 to S7111), and the detection result is reflected in the button notice effect (for example, the processing of steps S8113 to S8144A is executed). Configured). With such a configuration, even if the auto button function is set to be valid, if the player wants to perform an operation, the operation can be immediately reflected in the effect.

  In this embodiment, the button notice effect is started when the auto button function is enabled, and immediately after the player operates the push button 120 according to the button notice effect, The auto button function is changed from enabled to disabled, and the detection result is configured to be reflected in the button notice effect. However, the present invention is not limited to this configuration. It may be configured such that the function of the auto button is changed from valid to invalid after the button notice effect is finished without changing the function setting of the button. Such a configuration can be realized, for example, by executing the following processing. When the operation control button 101 detects the operation of the push button 120 in step S7110, the effect control CPU 101 executes the processing of steps S7111 to S7114 unless the button notice effect operation is valid, and if the operation is valid, the function of the auto button is performed. The process for setting the auto button change hold flag indicating that the change from valid to invalid is suspended is executed, and the auto button setting process is terminated without executing the processes of steps S7111 to S7114. Then, the effect control CPU 101 determines the function of the auto button if the auto button change hold flag is set at the end of the button notice effect (for example, when the notice display is displayed or when the operation valid period ends). Is changed from valid to invalid (that is, the auto button valid flag is reset and the auto button change hold flag is reset). In addition, regarding the configuration in which the setting change of the auto button function is temporarily suspended, the button notice effect A and the button notice effect B in which the notice display is displayed based on the detection of the continuous operation of the push button 120. And the button announcement effect C in which a notice display is displayed based on the detection of the single operation of the push button 120, or may be applied to both.

  In addition, when the player operates the push button 120 according to the button notice effect, when the function of the auto button is changed from valid to invalid after the button notice effect is finished, For example, in addition to detecting the operation of the push button 120 at predetermined intervals by the auto button function, it is detected that the push button 120 is actually operated by the player and reflected in the effect. May be. That is, you may make it reflect in a production | presentation the operation performed continuously by the auto button, and the operation actually performed. In such a configuration, for example, when the auto button change hold flag is set immediately before step S8147, it is confirmed whether or not the operation of the push button 120 has been detected. Is realized by executing a process of subtracting 1 from the value of the operation counter. In addition, for example, it is also realized by confirming whether or not the auto button change hold flag is set immediately before step S8169, and if it is set, executing the process of moving to step S8170.

  Further, for example, when the push button 120 is configured to be deformable, and the push button 120 is deformed into a shape different from the normal state in accordance with a predetermined effect (that is, the effect involving the deformation of the push button 120 is being executed) In this case, the setting of the auto button may not be changed even if the pressing operation of the push button 120 is detected. For example, when the operation is strongly urged by deforming the push button 120, there is a case where there is no intention to change the setting even if the operation is performed. In addition, when the push button 120 is deformed into a shape different from the normal state, for example, when the button part is deformed to protrude to the player side than the normal state, or in the normal state, it is combined. In addition to the case where multiple button parts are combined to form a single button part, it can be rotated (for example, rotating around a vertical axis of rotation) This also includes a case where the button portion that can be rotated or can be rotated around a horizontal rotation axis is rotating.

  FIG. 27 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). In addition, if the setting menu screen described later is displayed on the effect display device 9, the effect control CPU 101 deletes the setting menu screen (step S813). If the effect control CPU 101 is set, it resets a setting menu display flag to be described later (step S814). Then, the effect control CPU 101 updates the value of the effect control process flag to a value corresponding to the effect symbol variation start process (step S801) (step S815). As described above, in this embodiment, the display result designation command is transmitted even when the power failure is recovered (see step S44). However, as shown in FIG. Based on the fact that the variation pattern command has been received, the transition to the production symbol variation start processing is started and the variation display of the production symbol is started. Therefore, if the display result designation command is received without receiving the variation pattern command, the variation of the representation symbol The display will not start.

  If the variation pattern command reception flag is not set, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the setting menu display flag indicating that the setting menu screen is being displayed is set (step S816). If the setting menu display flag is not set, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not an operation of the stick controller 122 is detected (step S817). Whether or not the operation of the stick controller 122 has been detected can be specifically determined by confirming whether or not an operation detection signal has been input from the tilt direction sensor unit 123. If the operation of the stick controller 122 is detected, the effect control CPU 101 sets a setting menu for setting whether to enable or disable the auto button function and a background image on the display screen of the effect display device 9. Control for displaying the screen on the effect display device 9 is performed (step S819), and a setting menu display flag is set (step S820).

  Further, in this embodiment, when the processing of steps S817 to S820 is executed, the stick controller 122 is operated during a period during which the effect symbol variation display is not being performed (for example, during a customer waiting demonstration display). The display of the setting menu screen is started, and the setting of whether to enable or disable the function of the auto button and the setting of the background image on the display screen of the effect display device 9 can be performed.

  If the setting menu display flag is set in step S816 (that is, if the setting menu screen is already being displayed), the production control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the operation of the stick controller 122 has been detected ( Step S821). When the operation of the stick controller 122 is detected, the effect control CPU 101 follows the operation of the stick controller 122 and indicates a setting item selected on the setting menu screen (for example, the cursor 200 in FIG. 42 (4)). ) Is moved (step S822). In step S822, for example, when an operation of tilting the stick controller 122 to the right is detected, the cursor is moved from the setting item being selected to the setting item located on the right side (see FIGS. 42 (4) and (5)). When an operation of tilting the controller 122 toward the front is detected, the cursor is moved from the selected setting item to the setting item positioned on the lower side (see FIGS. 42 (6) and (7)).

  When the operation of the stick controller 122 is not detected (N in Step S821), the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the pressing operation of the push button 120 is detected (Step S823). If the pressing operation of the push button 120 is detected, the effect control CPU 101 causes the setting menu screen to indicate that the cursor is a setting item relating to the setting of the auto button (for example, “valid” and “invalid” shown in FIG. 42 (6)). ) (Y in step S824), the auto button valid flag is set or reset according to the setting item pointed to by the cursor (step S825). Specifically, when the pressing operation of the push button 120 is detected, if the cursor points to “valid” among the setting items related to the auto button, the auto button valid flag is set and “valid” is pointed to. For example, the auto button valid flag is reset.

  On the setting menu screen, if the cursor points to a setting item related to the setting of the background image (for example, “A”, “B”, and “C” shown in FIG. 42 (7)) (Y in step S826), The effect control CPU 101 sets a background image in accordance with the setting item indicated by the cursor (step S827). Specifically, when the pressing operation of the push button 120 is detected, if the cursor points to “A” among the setting items of the background image, it is set to the background image A, and if “B” is pointed to, the background is set. Set to image B. If “C” is indicated, set to background image C. In this embodiment, the effect display device 9 performs a variable display of effect symbols with any one of the selected background screens A to C as a background.

  Further, in the setting menu screen, when neither the setting item regarding the setting of the auto button nor the setting item regarding the setting of the background image is pointed, that is, when “setting end” (see FIG. 42) is pointed, The CPU 101 erases the setting menu screen and resets the setting menu display flag (steps S828 and S829).

  In this embodiment, by executing the processing of steps S816 to S829, a setting menu screen is displayed on the effect display device 9 in a period during which the effect symbols are not being displayed in a variable manner (for example, during a customer waiting demonstration display). It is configured to be able to display and set whether to enable or disable the function of the auto button and to set a plurality of types of background images on the display screen of the effect display device 9.

  FIG. 28 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 S8000). Next, the CPU 101 for effect control displays the display result (stop) of the effect symbol according to the variation pattern command read out in step S8000 and the data stored in the display result specifying command storage area (that is, the received display result specifying command). (Design) is determined (step S8001). That is, the display control result of the variable display of the identification information (stop of the design symbol) according to the variable display pattern (variation pattern) determined by the variable display pattern determination means by executing the process of step S8001 by the CPU 101 for the effect control. A display result determining means for determining (design) is realized. If the pseudo-ream is specified by the variation pattern command, the effect control CPU 101 determines that the chance stop symbol (for example, “223” or “445”) is used as the temporary stop symbol in the pseudo-ream in step S8001. The combination of the jackpot symbol that is not reachable and the symbol that is shifted by one symbol) 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 S8001, 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. 29 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. 29, when the received display result designation command indicates “ordinary big hit” (when the received display result designation command is the display result 2 designation command), the effect control CPU 101 stops. A combination of effect symbols in which three symbols are arranged in the same even number as symbols is determined. When the received display result designation command indicates “probable 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. A combination of performance symbols arranged with the same odd number of symbols is determined.

  Further, when the received display result designation command indicates “suddenly probable big hit” or “small hit” (when the received display result designation command is a display result 4 designation command or a display result 5 designation command), The effect control CPU 101 determines a combination of effect symbols such as “135” as the stop symbol. 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. In addition, a symbol reminiscent of being probabilistic (an odd symbol in this embodiment) is also called a probabilistic symbol, and a symbol reminiscent of being in a probable state (even symbol in this embodiment) is a non-probable symbol. Also called.

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 executes a notice effect setting process for determining whether or not various notice effects are to be executed in the effect display device 9 during the change display of the effect symbols and setting the effect mode of the notice effect ( Step S8002). In this embodiment, as will be described later, in the notice effect setting process, a button notice effect accompanied by an operation with the push button 120 and a back button notice effect are set. It should be noted that the present invention may be configured such that other notice effects such as a step-up notice effect, a mini character notice effect, and a movable object notice effect using a movable member can be executed without being limited to the button notice effect and the back button notice effect.

  Next, when executing the variation pattern and the notice effect, the effect control CPU 101 selects a process table corresponding to the notice effect (step S8003). Then, the process timer in the process data 1 of the selected process table is started (step S8004).

  FIG. 30 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. In the display control execution data, data indicating each variation aspect constituting the variation aspect during the variable display time (variation time) of the variable display of the effect symbols is described. Specifically, data relating to the change of the display screen of the effect display device 9 is described. The process timer set value is set with a change time in the form of the change. The effect control CPU 101 refers to the process table and performs control to display the effect design in the variation mode set in the display control execution data for the time set in the process timer set value.

  The process table shown in FIG. 30 is stored in the ROM of the effect control board 80. A process table is prepared for each variation pattern.

  When it is determined to execute the notice effect, the effect control CPU 101 selects a process table corresponding to the notice effect in step S8003.

  In addition, 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.

  In addition, the CPU 101 for effect control, according to the contents of the process data 1 (display control execution data 1, lamp control execution data 1, sound number data 1), effects device (effect display device 9 as an effect component, effect component as an effect component) The control of the various lamps and the speaker 27) as an effect part is executed (step S8005). For example, a command is output to the VDP 109 in order to display an image according to the variation pattern on the effect display device 9. In addition, a control signal (lamp control execution data) is output to the lamp driver board 35 in order to perform on / off control of various lamps. In addition, a control signal (sound number data) is output to the sound output board 70 in order to output sound from the speaker 27.

  In this embodiment, the effect control CPU 101 performs control so that the effect symbol is variably displayed by the change pattern corresponding to the change pattern command on a one-to-one basis. The variation pattern to be used may be selected from a plurality of types of variation patterns corresponding to.

  Next, 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 S8006).

  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 S8007).

  FIG. 31 is a flowchart showing the notice effect setting process (step S8002) in the effect symbol variation start process. In the notice effect setting process, the effect control CPU 101 first performs a lottery process based on random numbers using the button notice effect determination table for determining the presence and type of the button notice effect, and the presence and type of the button notice effect. Is determined (step S6501).

  FIGS. 32A and 32B are explanatory diagrams showing a specific example of the button notice effect determination table. Among these, FIG. 32 (A) shows a specific example of a button notice effect determination table used in the case of a loss. FIG. 32B shows a specific example of a button notice effect determination table used in the case of a big hit. As shown in FIGS. 32A and 32B, the button notice effect determination table includes “button notice effect A”, “button notice effect B”, “button notice effect C”, and “no execution”. Each is assigned a decision value.

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 32 (A) and 32 (B), as a button notice effect, a notice display (for example, “hot!” Or “ (A character string such as “chance!”) Is displayed, and a notice display (for example, character A or character A) is displayed based on “button notice effect A” and “button notice effect B” being detected and a single operation of the push button 120 is detected. A “button notice effect C” for displaying B) is provided.

  In the “button notice effect A” and “button notice effect B”, when the operation valid period starts, a gauge display corresponding to the number of operations of the push button 120 is displayed, and whenever the operation of the push button 120 is detected. The display is updated so that the scale of the gauge display is reduced by one. When the number of detected operations reaches a predetermined number of times (that is, when the scale of the gauge display becomes 0), it is determined that the operation condition is satisfied, and a notice display (for example, “Intense heat!” Or “Chance! "Is displayed). Further, in the “button notice effect C”, when an operation of the push button 120 is detected once during the operation valid period, it is determined that the operation condition is satisfied, and a notice display (for example, character A or character B) is displayed. Is displayed.

  Further, in this embodiment, when the function of the auto button is invalid and the execution of the button notice effect A is determined, the long press operation of the push button 120 is started during the execution of the button notice effect. When 4 seconds have passed since the start of the long press operation, detection by automatic continuous hitting is started, and during the detection by automatic continuous hitting, the number of operations by the push button 120 is increased by 1 every time 1.0 second has passed. Are treated as In addition, when execution of the button notice effect B is determined, when the long press operation of the push button 120 is started during the execution of the button notice effect, the automatic operation is performed when two seconds elapse after the start of the long press operation. Detection by continuous hitting is started, and during the detection by automatic continuous hitting, it is treated that the number of operations by the push button 120 is increased by one every 0.5 seconds. Note that, regardless of whether the button notice effect A or the button notice effect B is executed, every time a push operation of the push button 120 is detected when the normal repeated operation of the push button 120 is performed. The number of operations is treated as increasing by one.

  Further, if the function of the auto button is valid, when the button notice effect A is executed, 1.0 second has elapsed from the start of the operation valid period even if the push button 120 is not pressed long. Every time it is done, it is treated that the number of operations by the push button 120 is increased by one. Further, when the button notice effect B is executed, the number of operations by the push button 120 is increased every 0.5 seconds from the start of the operation valid period even if the push button 120 is not pressed for a long time. Treated as incremented by one. Although details will be described later, when the button notice effect C is executed, even if the push button 120 is not operated, a predetermined timing in the middle of the operation effective period (for example, the operation effective period is 6 seconds). In this case, when it reaches 3 seconds from the start of the operation valid period, the number of operations by the push button 120 is treated as being performed once (see FIG. 33B).

  Note that the present invention is not limited to the example shown in FIG. 32. For example, the automatic repeated hitting start time and the automatic repeated hit detection period may be selected from a plurality of options at different rates depending on whether or not a big hit. For example, when the display result is a big hit, the automatic continuous hitting start time is determined as 0 second at a rate of 50%, and determined as 2 seconds at a rate of 50%, and 70% when the display result is out of sync. It may be determined to be 0 seconds at the rate of 2 seconds and to 2 seconds at the rate of 30%. In addition, when the display result is a big hit, the automatic repeated hit detection interval is determined to be 0.5 seconds at a rate of 70%, and is determined to be 1 second at a rate of 30%. It may be determined to be 0.5 seconds at a rate of 50% and to be determined to be 1 second at a rate of 50%. In addition, depending on whether it is a big hit or not, regarding the configuration for selecting the automatic repeated hitting start time and the automatic repeated hit detection period from a plurality of options at different ratios, either automatic repeated hitting by the auto button function or automatic repeated hitting by long press operation It may be applied only to or both.

  In step S6501, the effect control CPU 101 determines whether or not it is a big hit. In this case, for example, the effect control CPU 101 displays a display result 2 designation command or a display result 3 designation command in which the display result designation command stored in the display result designation command storage area (see step S618) indicates a normal big hit or a probable big hit. By confirming whether or not, it is possible to determine whether or not it is a big hit.

  In the case of losing, the effect control CPU 101 selects the losing button notice effect determining table shown in FIG. In the case of a big hit, the CPU 101 for effect control selects the button notice effect determination table for the big hit shown in FIG. Then, the effect control CPU 101 performs lottery processing based on a random number using the selected button notice effect determination table, and determines the presence / absence and type of the button notice effect.

  In this embodiment, in the case of suddenly probable big hit or small win, the button notice effect determination table for losing shown in FIG. 32A is selected to determine the presence and type of the button notice effect. Shall. Note that, in the case of suddenly probable big hits or small hits, the big hit button announcement effect determining table shown in FIG. 32B may be selected, or suddenly probable big hits or small hits dedicated button notice effect determinations may be made. A table may be provided.

  As shown in FIGS. 32A and 32B, in this embodiment, the expectation level (reliability) for the big hit is high in the order of button notice effect A> button notice effect B> button notice effect C.

  In this embodiment, in the button notice effect A and the button notice effect B, a character string such as “Intense heat!” Or “Chance!” Is displayed as a notice display. Compared to the button notice effect B, the character string “Intense heat!” Is displayed as a notice display. Further, the button notice effect B has a higher rate of displaying the character string “chance!” As the notice display than the button notice effect A. That is, the expectation (reliability) for the big hit is higher when the character string “FIRE!” Is displayed as the notice display than when the character string “CHANCE!” Is displayed. In the case of the button notice effect A, “Intense heat!” May be displayed at a rate of 100%, and in the case of the button notice effect B, “chance!” May be displayed at a rate of 100%. .

  In this embodiment, in the button notice effect C, the character A or the character B is displayed as the notice display. However, in the case of a big hit, the ratio of the character A being displayed is higher than that of the character B. That is, as a notice display of the button notice effect C, the expectation (reliability) for the big hit is higher when the character A is displayed than when the character B is displayed.

  The notice display of the button notice effect may be determined in advance in the notice effect setting process, or a lottery may be performed when an operation condition is satisfied to determine which notice display is displayed. .

  In this embodiment, three types of button notice effects A, button notice effects B, and button notice effects C are provided as the types of button notice effects. Instead, for example, four or more button notice effects may be provided. Further, in this embodiment, a button notice effect determining table for losing and a button notice effect determining table for jackpot are provided, but not limited to such a configuration, the button notice effect determining table for each variation pattern. And the presence / absence of execution of the button notice effect and the ratio of the types may be different.

  Further, in this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 32, even if either the button notice effect A or the button notice effect B is executed, if a long press operation is performed, the operation detected by the automatic repeated hitting is detected. However, the present invention is not limited to such a mode. For example, a type of button notice effect that does not detect an operation by automatic continuous hitting even if a long press operation is performed is provided. You may comprise. For example, in the case of providing an effect of a kind that the player wants to participate in the operation as much as possible, for example, a configuration in which it is possible to recognize whether or not it is a big hit based on the result of the continuous operation of the push button 120, the long press operation is However, the operation may not be detected by automatic continuous hitting.

  If the effect control CPU 101 decides to execute the button notice effect (Y in step S6502), the determined button notice effect type (button notice effect A, button notice effect B) is provided in the RAM. The data is stored in the predetermined storage area (step S6503).

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the variation pattern has super reach (step S6504), and if it is a variation pattern having super reach, determines the type of the back button notice effect. A lottery process based on random numbers is performed using the back button notice effect determination table to determine the type of the back button notice effect (step S6505), and the determined back button notice effect type is stored in a predetermined storage area in the RAM. (Step S6506). In this embodiment, when the super reach is performed, the back button notice effect is always executed after the start of the super reach. However, since the back button notice effect does not indicate that the operation is effective or that the operation prompt is not performed, it is not indicated that the special operation valid period in the back button notice effect has started. Even if the auto button function is valid, the frame LED 28 does not emit light in a predetermined manner due to the back button notice effect if the pressing operation of the push button 120 is not detected during the special operation valid period.

  FIGS. 32C and 32D are explanatory diagrams showing a specific example of the back button notice effect determination table. Among these, FIG. 32C shows a specific example of the back button notice effect determination table used in the case of being out of place. FIG. 32D shows a specific example of the back button notice effect determination table used in the case of a big hit. As shown in FIGS. 32C and 32D, the back button notice effect determination table includes “back button notice effect A”, “back button notice effect B”, “back button notice effect C”, A determination value is assigned to each “back button notice effect D”.

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 32C and 32D, execution of the back button notice effect A is determined, and the pressing operation of the push button 120 is detected during the special operation valid period of the back button notice effect A. Then, control that the frame LED 28 emits white light is performed. Further, when the execution of the back button notice effect B is determined and the pressing operation of the push button 120 is detected during the special operation valid period of the back button notice effect B, the frame LED 28 is controlled to emit blue light. Further, when the execution of the back button notice effect C is determined and the pressing operation of the push button 120 is detected during the special operation valid period of the back button notice effect C, the frame LED 28 is controlled to emit green light. In addition, when the execution of the back button notice effect D is determined and the pressing operation of the push button 120 is detected in the special operation valid period of the back button notice effect D, the frame LED 28 is controlled to emit red light.

  In this embodiment, when a pressing operation of the push button 120 is detected during the special operation valid period of the back button notice effect, the frame LED 28 is displayed in a light emission mode according to the type of the back button notice effect determined in advance. The light emission control is configured to be performed. However, the present invention is not limited to such a configuration. For example, the light emission mode may be changed stepwise when a pressing operation of the push button 120 is detected. . Specifically, when execution of the back button notice effect D is determined, if the first pressing operation of the push button 120 is detected during the special operation valid period of the back button notice effect D, the frame LED 28 turns white. When the light emission control is performed and the second pressing operation of the push button 120 is detected, the frame LED 28 is controlled to emit blue light, and when the third pressing operation of the push button 120 is detected, the frame The LED 28 may be controlled to emit green light, and when the fourth pressing operation of the push button 120 is detected, the frame LED 28 may be controlled to emit red light. In such a case, even if a long press operation of the push button 120 is detected, the automatic continuous hitting may not function. That is, when the execution of the back button notice effect D is determined, the light emission mode of the frame LED 28 may not change to red unless the push button 120 is pressed four times. Also, in such a case, when the automatic continuous hitting by the long press operation of the push button 120 is configured to function, the long press operation of the push button 120 is detected during the special operation valid period of the back button notice effect. However, the setting of the auto button function may not be changed from invalid to valid.

  As shown in FIGS. 32 (C) and 32 (D), in this embodiment, the expectation level for the big hit in the order of back button notice effect D> back button notice effect C> back button notice effect B> back button notice effect A (Reliability) is high.

  In step S6505, the effect control CPU 101 determines whether or not it is a big hit. And if it is a case of detachment, the effect control CPU 101 selects the detachment back button notice effect determination table shown in FIG. In the case of a big hit, the effect control CPU 101 selects the big hit back button notice effect determination table shown in FIG. Then, the effect control CPU 101 performs a lottery process based on a random number using the selected button back notice effect determination table, and determines the type of the back button notice effect.

  In this embodiment, in the case of suddenly probable big hit or small hit, the back button notice effect determination table for losing shown in FIG. 32C is selected to determine the type of the back button notice effect. Shall. Note that, in the case of suddenly probable big hits or small hits, the back button notice effect determination table for big hits shown in FIG. 32 (D) may be selected, or the back button notice dedicated to sudden probable big hits or small hits may be selected. An effect determination table may be provided.

  In this embodiment, four types of back button notice effects are provided. However, the present invention is not limited to such a mode. For example, less than three kinds, or five or more kinds of back button notice effects are provided. You may comprise so that it may provide.

  Here, the execution timing of each effect will be described. FIG. 33A is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of the execution timing of each effect. The button notice effects A to C, the back button notice effect, and the decision button effect are effects that perform predetermined control based on the detection of the operation of the push button 120, but in FIG. The operation effective period in each effect is shown as execution timing. Also, the success / failure notification is executed at the detected timing when the pressing operation of the push button 120 is detected during the operation effective period in the decision button effect, and is pushed when the function of the auto button is effective. Even if the pressing operation of the button 120 is not detected, it is executed immediately before the end of the operation effective period (for example, when 9 seconds have elapsed from the start of the operation effective period when the operation effective period is 10 seconds). Is invalid, and when the pressing operation of the push button 120 is not detected during the operation effective period, as shown in FIG. 33A, the operation is executed at the end of the operation effective period.

  As shown in FIG. 33A, the button notice effect A, the button notice effect B, and the button notice effect C are all executed in the period from the start of change to the start of super reach.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 33A, the back button notice effect is executed immediately after the start of the super reach effect, and the decision button effect is executed at the end of the super reach effect. Note that the decision button effect is a notification of whether or not the operation is effective as a result of the start of the operation effective period, and is based on the detection of the pressing operation (single operation) of the push button 120 during the operation effective period. This is an effect of displaying a win / no-go display indicating whether or not a big hit. In this embodiment, the decision button effect is always executed when super reach is executed. Note that the decision button effect is not limited to the configuration in which the success / failure display is displayed, and for example, it may be configured such that the accessory is operated in the case of a big hit and the accessory is not operated in the case of a loss.

  In this embodiment, when the super reach effect is executed, the back button notice effect is always executed. However, the present invention is not limited to this configuration. It may be determined by selecting from a plurality of the execution timing (ie, the special operation effective period) when executing.

  Next, the operation condition establishment timing of each effect when the auto button is valid will be described. FIG. 33 (B) is an explanatory diagram showing operation condition establishment timing of each effect when the auto button is valid. In this embodiment, as in the case of the button notice effects A to C, if the auto button function is also valid for the decision button effect, the operation condition at a predetermined timing even if the operation of the push button 120 is not detected. As a result, a predetermined display is displayed.

  Here, the button notice effect C and the determined button effect are compared. Both the button notice effect C and the decision button effect are notified based on the fact that a notification prompting the operation is performed with the start of the operation effective period, and the single operation of the push button 120 is detected during the operation effective period. The button notice effect C is an effect for notifying the degree of expectation (reliability) for the big hit, whereas the decision button effect is an effect that definitely indicates whether or not the big hit. Therefore, the decision button effect is an effect that has a higher degree of importance and attention than the button notice effect C. Therefore, in this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 33 (B), when the function of the auto button is valid, the button notice effect C is the middle of the operation effective period (for example, the operation effective period is 6 seconds). The operation condition is satisfied at the timing when 3 seconds have elapsed from the start of the operation effective period), and for the decision button effect, the operation effective period immediately before the end of the operation effective period (for example, when the operation effective period is 10 seconds) The operation condition is established at a timing of 9 seconds from the start of the operation. With such a configuration, processing by the auto button can be executed in accordance with the importance level and attention level of the performance, and the performance effect can be enhanced. Specifically, by shortening the execution period of the button notice effect C with low importance and attention, it is possible to prevent the effect from becoming redundant, and to execute the decided button effect with high importance and attention. By making the length longer, the expectation can be maintained and the production effect can be improved. The operation valid period may be the same for the button notice effect C and the determined button effect.

  Note that the execution timing of each effect is not limited to the example shown in FIG. 33A, but may be any timing except for the decision button effect. In the example shown in FIG. 33 (B), the timing for establishing the operation condition is delayed in descending order of expectation (reliability) for the jackpot, that is, in the order of button notice effect A, button notice effect B, and button notice effect C. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the operation condition may be established earlier in the descending order of expectation (reliability) for the big hit. Further, the timing at which the operation condition is established may be different depending on the timing at which the effect is executed. For example, in the case of an effect executed before the reach is established, the operation condition may be established earlier or later than an effect executed after the reach is established.

  34 to 38 are flowcharts showing the effect symbol variation processing (step S802) in the effect control process. In the effect symbol variation processing, the effect control CPU 101 first decrements the value of the process timer by 1 (step S8101) and decrements the value of the variation time timer by 1 (step S8102). When the process timer times out (step S8103), 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 effect device is changed based on the display control execution data, lamp control execution data, and sound number data set next (step S8105).

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not an operation valid period flag indicating that the operation is valid in the button notice effect is set (step S8106). If the operation valid period flag is not set (that is, not during the operation valid period in the button notice effect), the effect control CPU 101 determines to execute the button notice effect in the notice effect setting process (see step S8002). If it is, it is confirmed whether or not it is the start timing of the operation valid period in the button notice effect (step S8107). Note that whether or not the operation valid period has started can be specifically determined by checking the value of the variation time timer set in step S8006 of the effect symbol variation start process. If it is not the start timing of the operation valid period, the process proceeds to step S8138.

  If it is the start timing of the operation effective period, the effect control CPU 101 sets a predetermined value (for example, 10) to the operation number counter for counting the number of operations of the push button 120 during the operation effective period of the button notice effect. Set (step S8108). In this embodiment, the push button 120 is operated repeatedly or pressed for a predetermined number of times (for example, 10 times) during the operation valid period of the button warning effect (for example, 20 seconds from the start of the button warning effect). Is reached, it is determined that the operation condition is satisfied, and a notice display is displayed. In step S8108, a value (for example, 10) corresponding to a predetermined number of times for satisfying the operation condition is set to the operation number counter. Set to In this embodiment, in the case of the button notice effect C, a notice display is displayed based on a single operation of the push button 120. In this case, this corresponds to one operation to satisfy the operation condition. The value to be set is set in the operation counter.

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 controls the effect display device 9 to start displaying gauge display according to the value of the operation counter (step S8109). For example, in step S8109, based on the value of the operation number counter being a predetermined value (for example, 10), display of the gauge display is started in a manner indicating a full state. Then, the production control CPU 101 sets a flag during the operation valid period (step S8110).

  By executing the processing of steps S8107 to S8110, when the operation valid period start timing in the button notice effect is reached, execution of the button notice effect is started, and detection of an operation by the push button 120 is started.

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not a pressing operation of the push button 120 has been detected (step S8111). Note that whether or not a push operation on the push button 120 has been detected can be specifically determined by confirming whether or not an operation detection signal has been input from the push sensor 124. If the pressing operation of the push button 120 is detected (that is, when the push button 120 has already been pressed at the start of the button notice effect), the effect control CPU 101 determines that the type of the button notice effect is It is confirmed whether or not it is the button notice effect C (step S8111A), and if it is the button notice effect C, the process proceeds to step S8144. In the case of the button notice effect C, a notice display is displayed based on the detection of the single operation of the push button 120. Therefore, when it is detected in step S8111, the process proceeds to step S8144 and the notice display is displayed. Process to display. If it is not the button notice effect C, the effect control CPU 101 sets an operation detection flag (step S8112). Then, control goes to a step S8138.

  When the operation effective period flag is set (that is, when the operation effective period in the button notice effect is in effect), the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the auto button effective flag is set. If it is set, the process proceeds to step S8147. If the auto button valid flag is not set, the CPU 101 for effect control confirms whether or not an auto-hit flag indicating that an operation by the auto-hit function is being detected is set (step S8113). If the auto-strike flag is not set, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the operation detection flag is set (step S8114).

  If the operation detection flag is not set, the production control CPU 101 confirms whether or not a push operation of the push button 120 has been detected (step S8115). If the pressing operation of the push button 120 is detected, the effect control CPU 101 sets the operation detection flag (step S8116) and subtracts 1 from the value of the operation number counter (step S8117). Further, the effect control CPU 101 updates the display of the gauge display on the effect display device 9 in accordance with the value of the operation counter after the subtraction (step S8118). For example, if it is determined in step S8118 that the button notice effect A or the button notice effect B is to be executed, the scale of the gauge display is decreased by one based on the decrease in the value of the operation counter. When the display is updated in such a manner and it is determined to execute the button notice effect C, the display is updated in such a manner that the entire scale of the gauge display is reduced. In the case of the button notice effect C, the gauge display may not be displayed from the beginning.

  If the push button 120 is repeatedly hit (normal hits that are not automatic hits) during the effective period of the button notice effect operation by executing the processes of steps S811 to S8118, one pressing operation of the push button 120 is detected. Each time the operation is performed, the number of operations is counted, and the display of the gauge display is updated.

  In this embodiment, the operation detection flag is set when the pressing operation of the push button 120 is detected during the operation effective period of the button announcement effect (see step S8116), and in the subsequent timer interruption, N in step S8114. If not, the process does not proceed to the processing of step S8115 and subsequent steps. Therefore, if it is not detected that the pressing operation of the push button 120 has been released once, the pressing operation of the next push button 120 is not detected (long press). If you have).

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the operation condition for the button notice effect is satisfied (step S8119). Note that whether or not the operation condition is satisfied is specifically based on whether or not the value of the operation number counter is 0 (in this example, the number of operations of the push button 120 is 10 times during the operation effective period ( Alternatively, it can be determined by confirming whether or not (1) has been achieved. If the operation condition is satisfied (that is, if the value of the operation number counter is 0 (in this example, 10 times (or once) operation is achieved)), the process proceeds to step S8144. To do.

  If the operation condition for the button notice effect is not satisfied, the effect control CPU 101 uses a button for an automatic repeated hitting start timer for measuring the time from the start of the long press operation until the start of the automatic repeated hit detection. A value corresponding to the type of the notice effect is set (step S8120). In this case, for example, if it is determined that the button notice effect A is to be executed, a value corresponding to 4 seconds is set in the automatic continuous hitting start time timer and the button notice effect B is determined to be executed. For example, a value corresponding to 2 seconds is set in the automatic continuous hitting start time timer (see FIG. 32). Then, control goes to a step S8138.

  If the operation detection flag is set in step S8114, the CPU 101 for effect control confirms whether or not the pressing operation of the push button 120 has been detected (step S8121). If the pressing operation of the push button 120 is detected, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the value of the automatic continuous hitting start time timer is 0 (step S8122). If the value of the automatic continuous hitting start time timer is 0, the process proceeds to step S8138.

  If the value of the automatic continuous hitting start time timer is not 0, the effect control CPU 101 subtracts 1 from the value of the automatic continuous hitting start time timer (step S 8123), and the value of the automatic continuous hitting start time timer after subtraction becomes 0. It is confirmed whether or not there is (step S8124). If the value of the automatic continuous hitting start time timer after subtraction is not 0, the process proceeds to step S8138. If the value of the automatic repeated hitting start time timer after subtraction is 0 (that is, if time-out has occurred), the effect control CPU 101 is detecting an operation by the automatic repeat hitting function in the effect display device 9. The display of the display during the automatic continuous hitting indicating that this is started (step S8125), and the automatic continuous hitting flag is set (step S8126). In addition, the CPU 101 for effect control corresponds to the type of the button notice effect in the automatic repeated hit detection interval timer for measuring the time until the number of operations is counted while detecting the operation by the automatic repeated hit based on the long press operation. The set value is set (step S8127). In this case, for example, if it is determined that the button notice effect A is to be executed, a value corresponding to 1.0 seconds is set in the automatic repeated hit detection interval timer, and the button notice effect B is determined to be executed. If so, a value corresponding to 0.5 seconds is set in the automatic repeated hit detection interval timer (see FIG. 32). Then, control goes to a step S8138.

  By executing the processing of steps S8122 to S8127, when a predetermined time (in this example, 4 seconds or 2 seconds) elapses after the long press of the push button 120 is started, the operation detection by the automatic continuous hitting function is detected. Be started.

  If the push button 120 has already been pressed at the start of the button notice effect, the operation detection flag is set in step S8112 and the automatic continuous hitting start time timer in step S8120 is not set. Unless the pressing operation of the push button 120 is temporarily stopped, Y in step S8114, Y in step S8121 and Y in step S8122 are repeated, and the detection of the operation by the automatic continuous hitting function is not started. .

  In this embodiment, the push button 120 detects a pressing operation at the start of the button notice effect in order to eliminate the case where the push button 120 has been pressed for a long time before the start of the button notice effect. The operation detection flag is set (see steps S8111 and S8112), but the push button 120 is configured to detect the pressing operation and set the operation detection flag from the stage before the start of the button notice effect. May be. In this case, after the operation detection flag is set before the start of the button notice effect, if the operation state of the push button 120 is released before the start of the button notice effect, the operation detection flag is reset again. Also good. As such, it may be configured to be able to exclude a case where the push button 120 has been pressed for a long time before the start of the button notice effect by some kind of processing mode.

  If the pressing operation of the push button 120 is not detected in step S811, the effect control CPU 101 resets the operation detection flag (step S8128). Then, control goes to a step S8138.

  If the automatic continuous hitting flag is set in step S8113 (that is, if the operation by the automatic continuous hitting function is being detected), the production control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the pressing operation of the push button 120 has been detected. (Step S8129). If the pressing operation of the push button 120 is detected, the CPU 101 for effect control subtracts 1 from the value of the automatic repeated hit detection interval timer (step S8130), and the value of the automatic repeated hit detection interval timer after subtraction becomes 0. It is confirmed whether or not (step S811). If the value of the automatic repeated hit detection interval timer after subtraction is not 0, the process proceeds to step S8138. If the value of the automatic continuous hit detection interval timer is 0 (that is, if time-out has occurred), the production control CPU 101 subtracts 1 from the value of the operation counter (step S8132). Further, the effect control CPU 101 updates the display of the gauge display on the effect display device 9 in accordance with the value of the operation counter after the subtraction (step S8133).

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the operation condition for the button notice effect is established (step S8133A). If the operation condition is satisfied (that is, if the value of the operation counter is 0 (in this example, 10 or 1 operation has been achieved)), the process proceeds to step S8144.

  If the operation condition for the button notice effect is not satisfied, the effect control CPU 101 sets a value corresponding to the type of the button notice effect in the automatic continuous hitting start time timer (step S8134). In this case, for example, if it is determined that the button notice effect A is to be executed, a value corresponding to 4 seconds is set in the automatic continuous hitting start time timer and the button notice effect B is determined to be executed. For example, a value corresponding to 2 seconds is set in the automatic continuous hitting start time timer (see FIG. 32). Then, control goes to a step S8138.

  By executing the processing of steps S8129 to S8134, in this embodiment, when the operation by the automatic continuous hitting function is being detected, the push button 120 is actually being pressed for a long time. However, every time a predetermined time (1.0 seconds or 0.5 seconds in this example) elapses, the number of operations is counted one by one, and it is detected that the push button 120 is repeatedly hit. Done.

  If the pressing operation of the push button 120 is not detected in step S8129, the CPU 101 for effect control erases the display during auto-batching displayed on the effect display device 9 (step S8135) and resets the auto-batching flag. (Step S8136). Further, the effect control CPU 101 resets the operation detection flag (step S8137). That is, the fact that the pressing operation of the push button 120 is not detected in step S8129 is a case where the long pressing operation of the push button 120 is stopped during the detection of the operation by the automatic continuous hitting function. The process of .about.S8137 is executed, and the detection of the operation by the automatic continuous hitting function is stopped. Then, control goes to a step S8138.

  In this embodiment, when N is determined in step S8129, the process of steps S8135 to S8137 is immediately executed, so that if the player stops the long press operation even during the automatic continuous hit, the automatic continuous hit function is used immediately. Although the case where operation detection is stopped is shown, it is not limited to such a mode. For example, it is configured to shift to the processing of steps S8135 to S8137 on the condition that the long press operation is stopped for a predetermined time (for example, 0.1 to 0.5 seconds) during the automatic repeated hitting, and during the automatic repeated hitting, When the hand is only released from the push button 120 momentarily, the detection of the operation by the automatic continuous hitting function may be continued.

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the operation effective period end timing in the button notice effect has come (step S8138). Specifically, whether or not the operation valid period has ended can be determined by checking the value of the variation time timer set in step S8006 of the effect symbol variation start process. If it is not the end timing of the operation valid period, the process proceeds to step S8158.

  If it is the end timing of the operation valid period, the CPU 101 for effect control erases the gauge display displayed on the effect display device 9 (step S8139), and if the display during automatic continuous hitting is displayed, The display during auto-strike is deleted (step S8140). In addition, the effect control CPU 101 resets the flag during the operation valid period (step S8141), and resets the automatic continuous hitting flag and the operation detection flag if the automatic continuous hitting flag and the operation detection flag are set (step S8141). Step S8142). When the automatic repeated hitting start time timer and the automatic repeated hit detection interval timer are set, the effect control CPU 101 also clears the values of the automatic repeated hit start time timer and the automatic repeated hit detection interval timer to zero. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S8158. In this embodiment, the notification display is not displayed if the number of detections does not reach the predetermined number during the operation effective period of the button notice effect, but the notification is also given when the operation effective period ends without the detection number reaching the predetermined number. You may make it display a display.

  If the operation condition is satisfied in step S8119 or step S8133A, the effect control CPU 101 displays a notice display corresponding to the type of button notice effect on the effect display device 9 (step S8144). In this case, for example, when button notice effect A or button notice effect B is executed, a character string such as “Intense heat!” Or “Chance!” Is displayed as a notice display, and button notice effect C is executed. If so, character A or character B is displayed as a notice display. In addition, the effect control CPU 101 controls the vibrator motor 126 to operate, thereby causing the stick controller 122 and the push button 120 to vibrate (step S8144A). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S8139.

  When the auto button valid flag is set in step S8112A, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the auto button executing flag indicating that the detection process by the auto button function is being executed is set. (Step S8147). If the auto button execution flag is not set, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not it is the detection process start timing by the auto button function (step S8156), and starts the detection process by the auto button function. If it is the timing, an auto button execution flag is set (step S8156A), and an auto button detection interval timer for measuring the time until the number of operations is counted during the operation detection process by the auto button function. Then, a value corresponding to the type of button notice effect is set (step S8157).

  In step S8156, for example, if it is determined to execute the button notice effect A or the button notice effect B, it is confirmed whether or not it is the timing when 0 second has elapsed from the start of the operation valid period (FIG. 32 ( (See A) and (B)). That is, it is confirmed whether or not it is the start time of automatic continuous hitting by the auto button function. In step S8157, for example, if it is determined to execute the button notice effect A, the value corresponding to 1.0 seconds is set in the auto button detection interval timer, and the button notice effect B is executed. If it is determined, the auto button detection interval timer is set to a value corresponding to 0.5 seconds (see FIGS. 32A and 32B).

  If it is determined that the button notice effect A or the button notice effect B is to be executed by executing the processes of steps S8156 to S8157, the detection process (i.e., the auto button function is detected simultaneously with the start of the operation valid period). , Automatic continuous striking) is started.

  In this embodiment, when the button notice effect A is decided to be executed, if the function of the auto button is valid, the auto button is compared with the case where the button notice effect B is decided to be executed. Since the detection interval is long (see FIGS. 32A and 32B), the timing at which the operation condition is satisfied is delayed (see FIG. 33B).

  In the case of the button notice effect C that displays a notice display based on the detection of the single operation of the push button 120, as shown in FIG. 33B, the operation condition is established in the middle of the operation valid period. Therefore, it is assumed that the start timing of the detection process by the auto button function is set in the middle of the operation valid period. If it is determined that the button notice effect C is to be executed when the function of the auto button is valid, in step S8156, a predetermined timing (for example, the middle of the operation valid period that is the start timing of the detection process by the auton function) When the operation effective period is 6 seconds, it is confirmed whether or not it is the timing when 3 seconds have elapsed from the start of the operation effective period. In step S8157, a value corresponding to 0 seconds is set in the auto button detection interval timer. By executing the processing in this way, it is determined that one operation has been detected immediately in the processing of steps S8149 to S8153, which will be described later, and a notice display is displayed assuming that the operation condition is satisfied. That is, in the case of the button notice effect C, when the detection process by the auto button function is started, the operation condition is satisfied when it is determined that the one-time operation is detected, and therefore the process for detecting the single operation is performed. Become.

  When the auto button execution flag is set in step S8147, the effect control CPU 101 subtracts 1 from the value of the auto button detection interval timer (step S8148), and the value of the auto button detection interval timer after the subtraction is It is confirmed whether it is 0 (step S8149). If the value of the auto button detection interval timer after subtraction is not 0, the process proceeds to step S8158. If the value of the auto button detection interval timer is 0 (that is, if time-out has occurred), the presentation control CPU 101 subtracts 1 from the value of the operation counter (step S8150). Further, the effect control CPU 101 updates the display of the gauge display on the effect display device 9 in accordance with the value of the operation counter after the subtraction (step S8151).

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the operation condition for the button notice effect is satisfied (step S8152). If the operation condition is not satisfied (that is, if the value of the operation number counter is not 0), the process proceeds to step S8157.

  If the operation condition is satisfied (that is, if the value of the operation number counter is 0), the effect control CPU 101 displays a notice display corresponding to the type of button notice effect on the effect display device 9. (Step S8154). Further, the effect control CPU 101 deletes the gauge display (step S8154), resets the auto button execution flag (step S8155), and resets the operation valid period flag (step S8155A). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S8158.

  In step S8158, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the special operation valid period flag indicating that the special operation valid period is in the back button notice effect is set (step S8158). If not set, the production control CPU 101 checks whether or not it is the start timing of the special operation valid period (step S8159), and if it is the start timing of the special operation valid period, the special operation valid period flag is set. Set (step S8160). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S8161.

  If the special operation valid period flag is set in step S8158, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether it is the end timing of the special operation valid period (step S8164). The process proceeds to S8161, and if it is the end timing, the special operation valid period flag is reset (Step S8165), and the process proceeds to Step S8166.

  In step S8161, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the operation of the push button 120 is detected (step S8161), and if detected, the type of the back button notice effect in which the light emission mode of the frame LED 29 is determined. It is confirmed whether or not the light emission mode is in accordance with (step S8162). If it is not the light emission mode according to the type of the back button notice effect, the effect control CPU 101 performs control to cause the frame LED 29 to emit light according to the light emission type according to the determined type of the back button notice effect (step S8163).

  Note that the back button notice effect is not limited to the light emitted by the predetermined light emission mode of the frame LED 29, and for example, an image, a character, and a character are displayed on the effect display device 9 according to the type of the back button notice effect. May indicate the degree of expectation, or may cause an LED provided on the board surface to emit light in a predetermined light emitting mode, or operate the movable member in any of a plurality of operating modes. The operating means (for example, push button 120, stick controller 122, etc.) may be operated by any one of a plurality of operation modes (for example, vibration, rotation, deformation, etc.).

  In step S8166, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the determined button effect period flag indicating that the determined button effect is being executed (that is, during the operation effective period of the determined button effect) is set (step S8166). Step S8166). If it is set, the process proceeds to step S8169. If it is not set, the production control CPU 101 confirms whether or not it is the start timing of the decision button effect (step S8167), and at the start timing of the decision button effect. If there is, the flag during the decision button effect period is set (step S8168). At this time, the effect display device 9 displays an operation instruction image that prompts the user to press the push button 120.

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the auto button valid flag is set (step S8169). If the auto button valid flag is not set, the production control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the operation of the push button 120 is detected (step S8170), and if it is detected, according to the display result of the variable display. The success / failure notification image by the determined button effect is displayed (step S8174). Thereafter, the flag during the decision button effect period is reset (step S8175), and the process proceeds to step S8176.

  If the operation of the push button 120 is not detected in step S 8170, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not it is the end timing of the decision button effect (step S 8171), and if it is the end timing, step S 8174. If it is not the end timing, the process proceeds to step S8176.

  If the auto button valid flag is set in step S8169, the effect control CPU 101 determines when the operation condition is established by the auto button function (for example, the operation valid period starts when the operation valid period is 10 seconds). (The timing at which 9 seconds have passed) is determined (step S8172). If the operation condition is satisfied, the process proceeds to step S8174. If the operation condition is not satisfied, the process proceeds to step S8176. Note that, when the auto button function is valid, if the player operates the push button 120 in accordance with the decision button effect, the auto button function is immediately changed from valid to invalid (steps S7101, S7110). ~ S7111), the auto button valid flag is not set (N in step S8169), it is determined that the input from the push button 120 has been detected (Y in step S8170), and a success / failure notification image is displayed (step S8111). S8174).

  In step S8176, if the change time timer has timed out (step S8176), the effect control CPU 101 updates the value of the effect control process flag to a value corresponding to the effect symbol change stop process (step S803) (step S8177). ).

  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, the effect control CPU 101 first checks whether or not a stop symbol display flag indicating that a stop symbol of the effect symbol is being displayed is set (step S8301). If the stop symbol display flag is set, the process proceeds to step S8305. In this embodiment, when a big hit symbol is displayed as the stop symbol of the effect symbol, a stop symbol display flag is set in step S8304. Then, the stop symbol display flag is reset when the fanfare effect is executed. Accordingly, the fact that the stop symbol display flag is set is a stage where the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed but the fanfare effect is not yet executed, and therefore the processing of displaying the stop symbol of the effect symbol in step S8302 is executed. Instead, the process proceeds to step S8305.

  When the stop symbol display flag is not set, the effect control CPU 101 performs control to stop and display the determined stop symbol (offset symbol, jackpot symbol) (step S8302). When the button notice effect is executed and the notice display is displayed on the effect display device 9, the effect control CPU 101 deletes the notice display.

  Next, when neither the big winning symbol nor the small winning symbol is displayed in the process of step S8302 (that is, when the off symbol is displayed) (N in step S8303), the presentation control CPU 101 proceeds to step S8311. To do.

  When the big hit symbol or the small hit symbol is stopped and displayed in the process of step S8302 (Y in step S8303), the effect control CPU 101 sets the stop symbol display flag (step S8304) and receives the big hit start 1 designation command. A big hit start 1 designation command reception flag indicating that a big hit start 2 designation command has been received, or a big hit start 2 designation command reception flag indicating that a big hit start 2 designation command has been received, or a small hit / It is confirmed whether or not the sudden probability big hit start designation command reception flag is set (step S8305). When the jackpot start 1 designation command reception flag, jackpot start 2 designation command reception flag, or small hit / sudden probability sudden change jackpot start designation command reception flag is set, the effect control CPU 101 resets the stop symbol display flag. (Step S8306), a process table corresponding to the fanfare effect is selected (Step S8307). If the big hit start 1 designation command reception flag, big hit start 2 designation command reception flag, or small hit / sudden probability sudden change big hit start designation command reception flag is set, the effect control CPU 101 sets the flag that was set. To reset.

  Then, the production control CPU 101 starts the process timer by setting the process timer set value in the process timer (step S8308), and the contents of the process data 1 (display control execution data 1, lamp control execution data 1, sound number) Control of the effect device (the effect display device 9 as the effect component, the various lamps as the effect component, and the speaker 27 as the effect component) is executed according to the data 1 and the movable member control data 1) (step S8309). Thereafter, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the jackpot display process (step S804) (step S8310).

  When it is determined that neither big hit nor small hit is made (N in step S8303), the effect control CPU 101 resets a predetermined flag (step S8311). For example, the effect control CPU 101 resets the first symbol variation designation command reception flag and the second symbol variation designation 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, as shown in step S811 in FIG. 27, the variation pattern). The fluctuation pattern command reception flag may be reset immediately after confirming the command reception flag). However, for example, because the symbol variation designation command is referred to in both the effect control process and the fourth symbol process, as shown in this embodiment, the effect symbol variation stop process or the like at the end of the variation. It is desirable to reset at the end of the big hit or at the end of the big hit effect processing.

  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 S8312).

  Next, a display mode when the auto button function is set to be valid or invalid will be described. FIG. 41 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a specific example of a display mode when the auto button function is set to be valid or invalid. In FIG. 41, the display screen changes in the order of (1), (2), and (3). In FIG. 41 (1), it is assumed that the function of the auto button is disabled.

  As shown in FIG. 41 (1), when the player performs a long press operation on the push button 120 while the effect symbol variation display is being executed, as shown in FIG. 41 (2), the auto button Is set to be effective, and a character string such as “auto button is enabled” is displayed on the effect display device 9 to display that the auto button function is set to be enabled. At this time, control for outputting the auto button effective sound effect from the speaker 27 and control for causing the push button 120 to emit light in a special light emission mode are performed (see steps S7103 to S7107).

  Further, when the auto button function is set to be valid and the player performs a pressing operation (single operation) on the push button 120, as shown in FIG. 41 (3), the auto button function is disabled. In addition, a character string such as “auto button disabled” is displayed on the effect display device 9, and a display indicating that the function of the auto button is disabled is displayed. At this time, the control for outputting the auto button invalid effect sound from the speaker 27 and the control for causing the push button 120 to emit light in the normal light emission mode are performed (see steps S711 to S7114).

  In the example of FIG. 41, the setting of the auto button function is changed during the dynamic display of the effect symbol. However, in this embodiment, the same operation is performed, not only during the variable symbol display of the effect symbol. Also, the auto button function setting can be changed during a customer waiting demonstration period or a big hit game period.

  Next, a case where the auto button function and the background image are set from the setting menu screen will be described. FIG. 42 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of the display mode when setting the auto button function and the background image from the setting menu screen. 42, the mode of the display screen changes in the order of (1) (2) (3).

  As shown in FIG. 42 (1), the last change display of the effect symbol is executed in the effect display device 9 in the state where there is no reservation storage, and based on the fact that the change time has passed as shown in FIG. 42 (2). It is assumed that the change display of the effect design has ended. In this case, since there is no pending storage even at the end of the variable display, it is assumed that the variable display of the next effect design is not started and the period has shifted to a customer waiting demonstration period. In this case, for example, as shown in FIG. 42 (3), the effect display device 9 displays a character string such as “Please operate the stick controller for the effect setting” and display that the setting related to the effect is possible. Shall be done.

  When the player operates the stick controller 122 in the state shown in FIG. 42 (3), as shown in FIG. 42 (4), display of the setting menu screen is started on the effect display device 9 (see step S819). It is possible to enable / disable the auto button function and set the background image. In the example shown in FIG. 42 (4), “valid” and “invalid” are displayed as setting items regarding the auto button on the setting menu screen, and “A”, “B”, and “C” are setting items regarding the background image. And are displayed. In the example shown in FIG. 42 (4), “effective” among the setting items related to the auto button is surrounded by a rectangle, and “A” among the setting items related to the background image is surrounded by a rectangle. It is shown that the function of the auto button is currently set to be effective and the background image is set to the background image A. A cursor 200 displayed in the setting menu screen indicates the selected item. In the example shown in FIG. 42 (4), since “valid” is indicated among the setting items related to the auto button by the cursor 200, the setting item indicating “valid” of the function of the auto button is selected. It is.

  Next, when the player operates the stick controller while the setting menu screen is displayed (for example, when an operation of tilting to the right side is performed), as shown in FIG. The setting item related to the button is moved from “valid” to “invalid” (see step S822). Here, when the push button 120 is pressed by the player, the function of the auto button is switched from valid to invalid (see step S825). At this time, “invalid” among the setting items related to the auto button is surrounded by a rectangle.

  Further, when the player operates the stick controller (for example, when an operation of tilting forward is performed), as shown in FIG. 42 (7), the cursor 200 moves to the setting item “B” regarding the background image. (Refer to step S822). Here, when the push button 120 is pressed by the player, the setting of the background image is switched from “A” to “B” (see step S827). At this time, “B” among the setting items related to the background image is surrounded by a rectangle. Thereafter, when the cursor 200 is moved to the end of setting and the push button 120 is pressed, the setting menu screen is ended.

  Even when the setting of the auto button function is changed from the setting menu, the effect display device 9 displays that the function of the auto button is disabled or enabled as in the example shown in FIG. It is possible to control the output of the auto button invalid effect sound or the auto button effective effect sound from the speaker 27, or to control the push button 120 to emit light in the normal light emission mode or the special light emission mode. .

  Next, an effect aspect of the button notice effect will be described. FIG. 43 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of the effect of the button notice effect when the automatic hitting by the auto button function is performed. In addition, in FIG. 43, the aspect of an effect screen changes in order of (1) (2) (3) ....

  In the example shown in FIG. 43, it is assumed that the button notice effect B is determined to be executed when the effect symbol variation display is started. Then, as shown in FIG. 43 (1), when the effect display device 9 is executing the variable display of the left middle right effect symbol, the start timing of the operation effective period of the button notice effect B is reached (step S8107). As shown in FIG. 43 (2), in the effect display device 9, the character string 202 such as “Press the button!” Is displayed and the display of the gauge display 203 is started (see steps S8108 and S8109). ), Detection of an operation by the push button 120 is started. Note that, as shown in FIG. 43 (2), at the stage where the operation effective period is started, the display of the gauge display 203 is started in a mode indicating a full state.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 43 (3), when the start timing of automatic continuous hitting by the auto button function is reached (in this example, simultaneously with the start of the operation valid period) (see step S8156), the pushbutton 120 is repeatedly hit. As a result, the display is updated so that the scale of the gauge display gradually decreases (FIGS. 43 (3) to (5)).

  Then, as shown in FIG. 43 (6), it is assumed that the predetermined number of times (10 times or once in this example) that the operation condition is satisfied has been performed, and the value of the operation number counter becomes 0. The display is updated until the gauge display 203 shows an empty state.

  When the operation condition is satisfied, as shown in FIG. 43 (7), the character string 202 such as “Press the button!” And the gauge display 203 are also deleted (see step S8139). Also, a notice display corresponding to the type of button notice effect is displayed (see step S8153). In the example shown in FIG. 43 (7), a case where a character string 205 such as “Chance!” Is displayed as the notice display based on the type of the button notice effect B being the button notice effect B is shown. Yes. When the type of the button notice effect is the button notice effect A, for example, a character string such as “Intense heat!” Is displayed as the notice display. When the operation condition is established by the function of the auto button, the vibration control of the push button 120 is not performed.

  FIG. 44 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a specific example of the effect mode of the button notice effect when the automatic continuous hitting is performed by a long press operation. In addition, in FIG. 44, the aspect of an effect screen changes in order of (1) (2) (3) ....

  In the example shown in FIG. 44, it is assumed that the execution of the button notice effect B is determined when the change display of the effect symbol is started. Then, as shown in FIG. 44 (1), when the effect display device 9 is executing the variable display of the left middle right effect symbol, the start timing of the operation effective period of the button notice effect B is reached (step S8107). 44 (2), as shown in FIG. 44 (2), the character display 202 such as “Press the button!” Is displayed on the effect display device 9 and the display of the gauge display 203 is started (see steps S8108 and S8109). ), Detection of an operation by the push button 120 is started. As shown in FIG. 44 (2), at the stage where the operation effective period is started, the display of the gauge display 203 is started in a mode indicating a full state. In this state, when the push button 120 is repeatedly hit during the operation valid period, the number of operations is counted one by one every time the push button 120 is pressed (see step S8117), and the scale of the gauge display 203 is displayed. The display is updated in such a manner that it is decreased one by one (see step S8118).

  Next, as shown in FIG. 44 (3), it is assumed that the player starts a long press operation of the push button 120 during the operation effective period. When a predetermined time (for example, 2 seconds) elapses after the long press operation is started, the display of the automatic continuous hitting display 204 is started as shown in FIG. 44 (4) (see step S8125). The operation detection by the function is started. In the example shown in FIG. 44 (4), a case where a character string such as “Automatic continuous hitting!” Is displayed as the automatic continuous hitting display is shown.

  Next, if the long press of the push button 120 is continued during the detection of the operation by the automatic continuous hitting function, the number of operations is counted by one every time a predetermined time (for example, 0.5 seconds) elapses (step S8132). The display is updated so that the scale of the gauge display 203 is decreased one by one (see step S8133), and the push button 120 is actually pressed for a long time. Detection is performed on the assumption that 120 consecutive hits have been made. Then, as shown in FIG. 44 (6), when a predetermined number of operations (for example, 10 times) satisfying the operation condition is performed and the value of the operation number counter becomes 0, the gauge display 203 is empty. It is assumed that the display has been updated up to the mode indicating.

  When the operation condition is satisfied, as shown in FIG. 44 (7), the character string 202 such as “Press the button!” And the gauge display 203 are also deleted (see step S8139). Further, the automatic continuous hitting display 204 is also deleted (see step S8140). Then, as shown in FIG. 44 (7), a notice display corresponding to the type of button notice effect is displayed on the effect display device 9 (see step S8144). When the operation condition is satisfied by the long press operation, the vibration control of the push button 120 is performed unlike the operation condition satisfied by the function of the auto button (see step S8144A).

  Next, the button notice effect C and the decision button effect when the auto button function is valid will be described. FIG. 45 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of the effect mode of the button notice effect C and the decision button effect. In addition, in FIG. 45, the aspect of an effect screen changes in order of (1) (2) (3) .... 45 (A1) to (A3) show specific examples of the effect mode of the button notice effect C, and FIGS. 45 (B1) to (B4) show specific examples of the effect mode of the decision button effect. ing.

  In the example shown in FIGS. 45A1 to 45A3, when the start timing of the operation effective period of the button notice effect C is reached (see step S8107), as shown in FIG. A character string 207 such as “PUSH!” Is displayed, an operation effective period display 206 indicating the operation effective period is displayed, and an operation detected by the push button 120 is started.

  The operation effective period display 206 is updated and displayed so that the scale decreases as the operation effective period elapses. As shown in FIG. 45 (A2), a predetermined timing in the middle of the operation effective period (for example, the operation effective period is 6). If the auto button function is valid, the character A is displayed as a notice display as shown in FIG. 45 (A3).

  In the example shown in FIGS. 45 (B1) to (B4), when the start timing of the operation effective period of the decision button effect is reached (see step S8167), the effect display device 9 displays “PUSH” as shown in FIG. 45 (B1). The character strings 207 and 208 such as “!” And “One blow!” Are displayed, and the operation effective period display 206 indicating the operation effective period is displayed, and the operation detection by the push button 120 is started.

  The operation effective period display 206 is updated and displayed so that the scale decreases as the operation effective period elapses (FIG. 45 (B2)), and as shown in FIG. 45 (B3), a predetermined timing ( For example, when the operation effective period is 10 seconds, when 9 seconds have elapsed from the start of the operation effective period), if the auto button function is effective, it indicates a big hit as shown in FIG. 45 (B4). A success / failure indication is displayed.

  As shown in FIG. 45, in this embodiment, when the function of the auto button is valid, the button notice effect C is in the middle of the operation valid period (for example, the operation valid when the operation valid period is 6 seconds). The operation condition is satisfied at the timing when 3 seconds have elapsed from the start of the period, and for the decision button effect, immediately before the end of the operation effective period (for example, 9 seconds from the start of the operation effective period when the operation effective period is 10 seconds) The operation condition is established at the elapsed time). With such a configuration, processing by the auto button can be executed in accordance with the importance level and attention level of the performance, and the performance effect can be enhanced.

  In the example shown in FIG. 45, the operation effective period display 206 that can recognize the remaining period of the operation effective period in the button notice effect C is displayed, but in the button notice effect A and the button notice effect B, the operation is valid. The period display 206 may be displayed.

  Next, the difference between the case where the automatic continuous hit by the long press operation is performed and the case where the automatic continuous hit by the auto button function is performed will be described. FIG. 46 is an explanatory diagram showing a comparative example of automatic continuous hitting by a long press operation and automatic continuous hitting by an auto button function. In the example shown in FIG. 46, it is assumed that execution of the button notice effect A is determined.

  As shown in FIG. 46 (A), when the automatic continuous hitting by the long press operation is performed, after the start of the operation effective period, a predetermined start waiting period (this time) is started after the long press operation of the push button 120 is started. In the example, 4 seconds (see FIGS. 32 (A) and 32 (B)), the continuous hit determination is turned on (that is, the process is executed assuming that the continuous hit operation is performed, and the gauge display scale is changed). Will decrease).

  On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 46 (B), when the automatic repeated hitting by the auto button function is performed, the repeated hit determination is turned on immediately after the operation effective period starts (that is, the operation effective period Immediately after the start, the process is executed assuming that the hammering operation is being performed repeatedly, and the scale of the gauge display decreases). With such a configuration, when the auto button function is enabled and the long press operation is not performed, and when the auto button function is disabled and the long press operation is performed, the production (for example, reduction in the scale of the gauge display) ) Can be performed at different timings, and the production effect can be enhanced.

  Further, in this embodiment, when the execution of the button notice effect B is determined, when the automatic continuous hit by the long press operation is performed, the long press of the push button 120 is started after the operation effective period starts. After a predetermined start waiting period (in this example, 2 seconds; see FIGS. 32A and 32B) has elapsed since the operation was started, the continuous hit determination is turned on, and automatic continuous hitting by the auto button function is performed. In this case, the continuous hit determination is turned on immediately after the operation valid period starts. Therefore, in both cases of button notice effects A and B, when the auto button function is valid and the long press operation is not performed, and when the auto button function is invalid and the long press operation is performed, The timing at which (for example, a reduction in the scale of the gauge display) is executed is different.

  Next, the operation detection timing in the case where the operation is detected by automatic continuous hitting by a long press operation will be described. 47 and 48 are explanatory diagrams for explaining the operation detection timing in the case where the operation is detected by the automatic continuous hitting by the long press operation. Among these, FIG. 47 shows the operation detection timing when the button notice effect A is executed. FIG. 48 shows the operation detection timing when the button notice effect B is executed.

  When the player starts a long press operation of the push button 120 after the operation valid period of the button notice effect is started during the change display of the effect symbol, as shown in FIGS. 47 and 48, the long press operation of the push button 120 is performed. First, detection is performed assuming that the first operation has been performed. Here, in the example shown in FIG. 47 and FIG. 48, it is a case where a long press operation is performed, and thus, a case where the pressing operation from the push button 120 is continuously detected, but the operation detection flag is set. As a result, the next operation is not detected immediately (see steps S8114 and S8116).

  Next, when a predetermined time elapses while the long press operation of the push button 120 is continued, detection of an operation by the automatic continuous hitting function is started (see steps S8124 to S8127). In this case, if the button notice effect A is executed, as shown in FIG. 47, detection of the operation by the automatic continuous hitting function is started based on the long press operation of the push button 120 being continued for 4 seconds. Is done. If button notice effect B is to be executed, as shown in FIG. 48, detection of an operation by the automatic continuous hitting function is started based on the long press operation of push button 120 being continued for 2 seconds. (See FIG. 32).

  If the long press operation of the push button 120 is continued during the detection of the operation by the automatic continuous hitting function, the number of operations is counted one by one every time a predetermined time elapses. Detection is carried out as being performed (see steps S8131 to S8134). In this case, if the button notice effect A is executed, as shown in FIG. 47, the number of operations is counted one by one every time 1.0 second elapses, and the push button 120 is repeatedly hit. Detection is performed as if If button notice effect B is executed, as shown in FIG. 47, every time 0.5 seconds elapse, the number of operations is counted one by one, and the push button 120 is repeatedly hit. Is detected (see FIG. 32).

  Next, the operation detection timing when the push button 120 has already been pressed at the start of the button notice effect will be described. FIG. 49 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the operation detection timing when the push button 120 has already been pressed at the start of the button notice effect.

  If the push button 120 has already been pressed when the operation effective period of the button notice effect starts during the variation display of the effect symbol, the operation detection flag is set immediately with the start of the operation effective period (step S8121). Y, see step S8128). In this case, as shown in FIG. 49, even if the push button 120 is pushed long, the operation by the auto function is not detected, and until the push button 120 push operation is temporarily stopped. Is invalidated (see Y in step S8114, Y in step S8121 and Y in step S8222).

  Then, after the pressing operation of the push button 120 is temporarily stopped, when the long pressing operation of the push button 120 is started again, the operation by the automatic continuous hitting function is performed because the predetermined time has passed while the long pressing operation is continued. Is detected (see steps S8124 to S8127), and if the long press operation of the push button 120 is continued during the detection of the operation by the automatic continuous hitting function, the number of operations is incremented by one each time a predetermined time elapses. Counting is performed on the assumption that the push button 120 is repeatedly hit (see steps S811 to S8134).

  In the example shown in FIG. 49, the case where the button notice effect A is executed is shown. Based on the fact that the long press operation of the push button 120 is continued for 4 seconds, the operation detection by the automatic continuous hitting function is detected. In this example, the number of operations is counted one by one every time 1.0 second elapses, and the detection is performed assuming that the push button 120 is continuously hit. When the button notice effect B is executed, detection of an operation by the automatic continuous hitting function is started based on the fact that the long press operation of the push button 120 is continued for 2 seconds, and every 0.5 seconds elapses. The number of operations is counted one by one, and the detection is performed on the assumption that the push button 120 is repeatedly hit.

  In this embodiment, in the effect display device 9, an operation effective period display (for example, a character string 202 or a gauge display 203 such as “Press the button!” Shown in FIG. 43) indicating the operation effective period is displayed. Although displayed, for example, at least a part of the operation effective period display is concealed due to other effects (for example, an effect effect, a fade-out effect, a blackout effect, etc.) executed at the same time, resulting in a visually difficult state. It is possible. For this reason, it is desirable that the operation effective period end after a period in which the detection effective period display is in a visually difficult state. By comprising in this way, since an operation effective period display is displayed even after a visual difficulty state is eliminated, it can prevent overlooking that operation is effective.

  FIG. 50 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example in the case where an accessory effect and a button notice effect are executed at the same time. In the effect display device 9, after the effect symbol variation display is started (FIG. 50A), when the accessory effect and the button notice effect are started, control for moving the accessory 200 to the effect position is started. In addition, on the display screen of the effect display device 9, an operation promotion image 301 for prompting an operation and a remaining effective period image 302 indicating the remaining period of the operation effective period are displayed (FIG. 50B). Then, the accessory 200 gradually moves toward the effect position, and the remaining effective period image 302 indicates the remaining period according to the elapsed period (that is, according to the remaining period of the detected effective period). 50 (corresponding to a shaded area in the example of 50) is updated so as to decrease (FIG. 50C).

  Next, when the accessory 200 reaches the effect position, it stops for a predetermined period (FIG. 50D). At this time, the operation promotion image 301 and the remaining effective period image 302 resulting from the button notice effect are covered with the accessory 200 and are difficult to view. However, as shown in FIG. 50 (D), the operation promotion image 301 and the remaining effective period image 302 are configured to be larger in size than the accessory 200, and thus are not completely invisible. Some are always visible. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the player from overlooking the detection valid period (that is, the button notice effect).

  Next, the accessory 200 stops at the effect position for a predetermined period, and then moves to the initial position (FIG. 50 (E)). Here, the button notice effect is configured to end after the accessory effect. That is, the detection effective period of the button notice effect is configured to end after a period in which the operation promotion image and the remaining effective period image 202 are in a state in which it is difficult to visually recognize. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 50 (E), the operation promotion image 301 and the remaining effective period image 302 are displayed in the effect display device even after the accessory 200 has returned to the initial position, that is, after the difficult-to-view state has been resolved. 9 is displayed. Thereafter, when the operation of the push button 120 is detected, a character A that says “chance!” Is displayed as a notice display (FIG. 50F).

  Moreover, in this embodiment, the display for reducing the scale of the gauge display is performed based on the detection of the operation of the push button 120 in the button notice effects A to C and the decision button effect, and the number of detections is increased. When a predetermined number of times is reached, a notice display or a success / failure display is displayed. In addition to such control, for example, every time an operation of the push button 120 is detected, an output of a sound effect, a display of a predetermined image, You may make it perform blinking etc. of a light-emitting body. Such a display for reducing the scale of the gauge display performed each time an operation is detected, output of sound effects, display of a predetermined image, flashing of a light emitter, etc. are also performed with the button notice effects A to C and the decision button. It can be said that it is part of the production.

  As described above, according to this embodiment, the detection means (in this example, the push button 120) that can detect the player's action and the setting state related to the performance are set to the first state (in this example, the auto mode). (A state in which the button function is disabled) or a second state (in this example, a state in which the auto button function is enabled), and a specific effect when the effect execution condition is satisfied (In this example, a display for reducing the scale of the gauge display, a display of the notice display, or a display of success / failure display based on the detection of the operation of the push button 120 in the button notice effect A to C or the decision button effect) And a specific effect execution means capable of executing the operation). Then, the specific effect execution means can execute the specific effect in the first state based on the detection result of the detection means, and the execution condition is satisfied, while in the second state, regardless of the detection result of the detection means. A specific effect can be executed assuming that the effect execution condition is satisfied (in this example, when the auto button function is set to be effective, even if the push button 120 is not operated, a notice display or a success / failure display is displayed. And a display for reducing the scale of the gauge display, etc. (See FIGS. 36 to 37, FIGS. 43 to 44, etc.). Further, the setting unit can change the setting from the first state to the second state based on the detection result of the detection unit during execution of variable display (see, for example, steps S7103 to S7104 in FIG. 36). Therefore, it is possible to change the setting state related to the production even during the execution of variable display, and it is possible to prevent the interest from deteriorating. That is, it is possible to change the setting state related to the production without temporarily interrupting the game, and to prevent the interest from being lowered due to the interruption.

  Further, in this embodiment, in the second state, it is possible to execute a specific effect on the basis that the effect execution condition is satisfied regardless of the detection result of the detection means, and the effect execution condition is satisfied based on the detection result of the detection means. Even if it does, specific production can be executed. Therefore, even if the second state is set, the detection result of the detection means can be reflected in the effect. In this embodiment, when the auto button function is enabled, if the pressing operation is performed according to the button notice effect, the auto button function is immediately set to be disabled, and the detected pressing operation is changed to the button notice effect. For example, when the auto button function is enabled, if a pressing operation is performed according to the button notification effect, the detected pressing operation is reflected in the button notification effect, and after the button notification effect ends. The auto button function may be disabled and changed.

  Further, in this embodiment, based on the detection result of the detection means, based on the detection of the operation of the push button 120 in the button announcement effects A to C and the decision button effect in this example, There is provided a specific effect execution means capable of executing a display for reducing the scale of the gauge display, a notice display or a display of success / failure display. When the first effect execution condition is met in the first state in which the first action is continuously detected by the detection means in the first state (in this example, the operation condition is determined by the automatic repeated hit by the long press operation). A specific effect can be executed when a second effect execution condition for detecting a plurality of continuous motions is detected by the detection means (in this example, when an operation condition is satisfied by continuous hitting operation). On the other hand, in the second state, the specific effect can be executed regardless of the detection result of the detection means. In the first state, the detection means performs one operation over a specific period (in this example, the automatic continuous hitting start time by the long press operation shown in FIGS. 32A and 32B, see FIG. 46A). While the first effect execution condition is satisfied when the first effect execution condition is satisfied, the specific effect can be executed before the elapse of the specific period in the second state (FIG. 32A). ), (B), FIG. 46 (B)). Therefore, since the execution timing of the specific effect differs depending on the setting state related to the effect, the effect of the specific effect can be enhanced.

  In this embodiment, the state in which “one operation is continuing” is a state in which the player continues the pressing operation of the operation means such as the push button 120 without interruption, A so-called long press operation or the like is applicable, and so-called continuous hitting operations are not included.

  In this embodiment, in the second state, the specific effect can be executed regardless of the detection result of the detection means, and the specific effect can be executed even when the second effect execution condition is satisfied. Therefore, even if the second state is set, the detection result of the detection means can be reflected in the effect. In this embodiment, when the auto button function is enabled, if the pressing operation is performed according to the button notice effect, the auto button function is immediately set to be disabled, and the detected pressing operation is changed to the button notice effect. For example, when the auto button function is enabled, if a pressing operation is performed according to the button notification effect, the detected pressing operation is reflected in the button notification effect, and after the button notification effect ends. The auto button function may be disabled and changed.

  Further, in this embodiment, the setting means changes from the second state to the first state based on the detection of the first operation (in this example, the pressing operation (single operation) of the push button 120) by the detecting means. The setting can be changed, and the setting can be changed from the first state to the second state based on the detection of the second operation (in this example, the long press operation of the push button 120) by the detection unit. Therefore, the setting state can be easily changed.

  Also, in this embodiment, a special effect (in this example, a back button notice effect) can be executed based on the action detected by the detecting means during the special detection valid period that is not accompanied by a notification that prompts the player to make an action. Special special performance executing means. The setting unit does not change the setting from the second state to the first state even if an operation is detected by the detection unit during the special detection valid period (see Steps S7108, S7110, and S7111). Therefore, it is possible to prevent a setting change unintended by the player.

  Further, in this embodiment, there is provided an effect setting means capable of performing settings related to effects (in this example, setting of a background image) based on the action detected by the detection means. The setting means does not change the setting from the second state to the first state even if the operation for performing the setting related to the effect is detected by the detection means (see Steps S7109, S7110, and S7111). Therefore, it is possible to prevent a setting change unintended by the player. In this embodiment, the background image can be set as the setting related to the effect. However, instead of or in addition to this, the effect execution frequency, volume, screen brightness, etc. can be set. It is desirable that the setting is not changed from the second state to the first state even when a detection means (for example, push button 120) for performing these settings is operated.

  Moreover, in this embodiment, the specific effect execution means can execute a plurality of types of specific effects (for example, button notice effects A to C, decision button effects, etc.). The timing at which the performance execution condition is satisfied in the two states is different (see FIG. 33B). Therefore, the performance execution condition can be established at a timing suitable for the performance, and the performance effect can be enhanced.

  In this embodiment, the detection means includes an operation means (in this example, the push button 120) that can be operated by the player, and the operation means is operable and based on the detection result of the operation means. The operation mode differs between when the specific effect is executed assuming that the effect execution condition is satisfied and when the specific effect is executed when the effect execution condition is satisfied regardless of the detection result of the operation means (steps S8144 to S8144A, S8153, see FIGS. 43 (7) and 44 (7)). Therefore, the operation mode can be varied according to the process in which the production execution condition is established, and the production effect can be enhanced.

  Further, in this embodiment, the specific effect execution means can execute the specific effect based on the fact that the effect execution condition is satisfied based on the fact that the operation is detected by the detection means in the detection valid period, and the setting means Even if an operation is detected by the detecting means during the effective period, the setting is not changed from the first state to the second state (in this example, even if a long press operation is detected during the operation effective period in the button notice effect, the auto button Do not change from disabled to enabled). Therefore, it is possible to prevent a setting change unintended by the player.

  In this embodiment, a detection effective period display indicating that the detection by the detection means is an effective detection effective period (in this example, a character string 202 such as “push a button!” Shown in FIG. 43 and a gauge display) 203) is displayed. If this detection valid period display may be in a visually difficult state in which at least a part is concealed by an effect (for example, an effect effect, a fade-out effect, a blackout effect, etc.), the detection valid period is displayed as a detection valid period display. May end after a period in which is difficult to view. By doing so, since the detection effective period display is displayed even after the visually difficult state is resolved, it is possible to prevent the detection by the detection means from being overlooked.

  In this embodiment, the push button 120 is configured to emit light in a special light emission mode when the auto button function is valid, and to emit light in a normal light emission mode when the auto button function is invalid. However, the configuration is not limited to this, and the light may be emitted when the function of the auto button is valid and may not be emitted when the function of the auto button is invalid. Further, for example, when the function of the auto button is invalid, light may be emitted only during a period when the operation is valid, and when the function of the auto button is valid, the light may be constantly emitted.

  Moreover, in this embodiment, although the case where the push button 120 was used as an operation means was shown, it is not restricted to such an aspect. For example, as the operation means, an automatic continuous striking function may be used when detecting a continuous push-pull operation of the stick controller 122, or when detecting a continuous push-pull operation with respect to the trigger button 121 of the stick controller 122. A continuous hitting function may be used. In such a case where various operation means are used, the automatic continuous hitting function can be applied.

  Further, for example, the configuration shown in this embodiment may be applied to a gaming machine including an infrared sensor or a photosensor that detects a player's operation, for example, not only when detecting an operation by the operating means. Good. In this case, for example, when the player's continuous motion is detected by an infrared sensor or a photo sensor, the automatic continuous hitting function may be used.

  If a plurality of detection means (for example, a push button 120, a stick controller 122, an infrared sensor, a photo sensor, etc.) capable of detecting the player's action are provided, the automatic detection is not performed for any of the detection means. The button function may be set to be valid. In other words, if an effect of performing a predetermined control is provided based on the detection of the player's action by the infrared sensor, if the auto button function for the infrared sensor is enabled, the infrared sensor Even if the player's action is not detected, the predetermined control may be performed. In this case, each detection means may be set collectively by setting the auto button function to be valid or invalid, or the auto button function is valid or invalid for each detection means. It may be possible to set to.

  Further, for example, the detection start time and the detection interval by the auto button function may be different depending on the detection means. For example, the push button and the infrared sensor have different mechanisms, so the intervals at which the player's action can be detected are also different. According to such a configuration, the detection process by the auto button function is performed according to the characteristics of each detection means. Can be done at speed.

  Further, for example, for the effect of performing predetermined control based on the detection of the player's action by the infrared sensor, the effect may be advanced by operating the push button 120. That is, the operation of the push button 120 may be reflected in the effect. With such a configuration, for example, the push button 120 that can be operated repeatedly can be used in place of the detection unit that hardly detects the operation continuously like an infrared sensor. Moreover, you may make it reflect automatically in an effect for such an effect by the automatic continuous hit by long press operation of the push button 120. FIG. In this case, the detection process may be performed at the detection interval corresponding to the infrared sensor even if the automatic continuous hitting by the long press operation of the push button 120 is actually performed.

  Further, in this embodiment, the case where the notice display in the button notice effect or the success / failure display in the determined button effect is shown as the specific effect to which the auto button is applied is not limited to such a mode. For example, in the case of an effect accompanied by detection of some operation or action, the auto button function shown in this embodiment may be applied when performing a notice effect other than the button notice effect or the decided button effect. . In addition, for example, if it is an effect that is detected when some operation or action is performed as an effect to be executed when the variable display is not being performed (for example, when a customer waiting demonstration is being displayed) or an effect during a big hit game, You may make it use the function of an auto button in the production.

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 32 (A) and 32 (B), the button notice effect B with a shorter detection interval of the operation by the automatic repeated hitting is compared with the button notice effect A with a longer detection interval. Expectation (reliability) for jackpot is low. Therefore, in this embodiment, the lower the degree of expectation (reliability) for the big hit, the shorter the operation detection interval by automatic repeated hits, and the number of operations is counted at a faster pitch. Is getting faster. In addition, it is not limited to the mode shown in this embodiment, and conversely, an effect with a low expectation (reliability) for the big hit may be configured such that the detection interval of the operation by the automatic hit is longer. .

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 32 (A) and 32 (B), the button notice effect B has a shorter time from the start of the long press until the start of the detection by the automatic repetitive strike. Compared to the button notice effect A that takes a long time to start detection by repeated hits, the expectation level (reliability) for the big hit is low. Therefore, in this embodiment, the lower the expectation (reliability) for the big hit, the shorter the time from the start of the long press until the start of detection by auto-hit, and early detection by auto-hit is started. Therefore, the timing when the operation condition is satisfied is earlier. In addition, it is not limited to the mode shown in this embodiment, and conversely, the direction with a low expectation (reliability) for the big hit is configured so that the time until the detection by the automatic repeated hitting is longer. It doesn't matter.

  In this embodiment, depending on the situation, depending on the situation, depending on the situation, depending on the setting state of the auto button and the type of button notice effect, the time until the start of detection by auto-strike and the detection interval of operation in auto-strike can be varied. Although the case where the time and the detection interval until the detection by the automatic repeated hitting is changed is shown, it is not limited to such a mode. For example, the time until the start of detection by automatic repeated hits and the detection interval of the operation in automatic continuous hits may be varied depending on whether the gaming state is a probability change state, a short time state, or a high base state.

[Operation means that can be operated by the player] As an operation means that can be operated by the player, for example, a stick controller 122 can be used. Further, a player detection sensor can be provided as an operation means that can be operated by the player.
The player detection sensor may detect a player instead of the operation of the stick controller 122 or the push button 120 or in combination with the operation of the stick controller 122 or the push button 120. A plurality of player detection sensors may be used in combination.

The detection target of the player detection sensor can be, for example, the approach of the player's body, the movement of the player's body, or the voice of the player.
Examples of the approach of the player's body, or the movement of the player's body, which is the detection target, include the approach of the player's hand, the contact of the player's hand, the player waving his hand or holding his hand, etc. It may be a player's facial expression such as a hand movement, a player's smile or a player's opening, a gesture using the player's body, and the like.
As the player detection sensor, for example, a proximity sensor, a television camera, a radar device, or the like can be used.
For example, the proximity sensor can detect the approach or separation of a part of the player's body. As the proximity sensor, a capacitive sensor, an infrared sensor, a laser sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, or the like may be used.
Further, the television camera can detect facial expressions, gestures, and the like of the player by analyzing an image obtained by photographing the player's body. A television camera can use one or a plurality of cameras.
The radar device can detect the approach or separation of a part of the player's body.
A microphone can be used to detect the player's voice. The microphone can detect the player's voice and the player's operation (for example, tapping sound) near the microphone.
As described above, as long as the player can operate, the operating means may be operated by the player in contact or may be operated by the player in a non-contact manner.

[Detection Means capable of Detecting Player Action] On the other hand, the detection means capable of detecting the player action may be any means that detects the “action” of the player. The player's actions can include actions that are explicitly performed by the player and actions that are not explicitly performed by the player.
The operations explicitly performed by the player detected by the detection means are the operations in which the player explicitly operates the operation means and the operations in the case where the player does not explicitly operate the operation means. Can be included. The operation in which the player explicitly operates the operation means includes, for example, an operation in which the player presses the push button 120 and an operation in which the player approaches the infrared proximity sensor. The operation when the player does not explicitly operate the operation means includes, for example, an operation in which the player makes a predetermined gesture with respect to the television camera and an operation of creating a predetermined facial expression.
The operation that is not explicitly performed by the player detected by the detecting means is, for example, the presence of the player itself detected by a television camera or a proximity sensor. For example, the detection means may detect the presence or absence of a player's seat using a television camera or an infrared sensor.

[Effect according to operation of operation means] In this embodiment, the effect aspect after the button operation is illustrated as an effect according to the operation of the operation means. However, the effect according to the operation of the operation means is illustrated here. It is not limited.
For example, in the present embodiment, the operation aspect of the operation effect executed during the variable display period during the variable display of the effect symbols has been described, but the operation effect may be executed during a period other than the variable display period. For example, the operation effect can be executed in a period in which a round is being executed in the jackpot gaming state or a period in which an ending effect is executed at the end of the jackpot gaming state.

[Notification means for notifying the player of the operation valid period]
In this embodiment, an example in which a gauge display is displayed on the effect display device 9 as the notification means for notifying the player that the operation is valid is illustrated. However, the notification means for notifying the player of the operation validity period is illustrated. It is not limited to this.
For example, as the notification means, the balloon may be inflated as the operation effective period elapses, and the effect display period may be displayed on the effect display device 9 to notify the player of the operation effective period.
Further, as the notification means, the sand of the hourglass is dropped as the operation effective period elapses, and an effect that the fall of the sand ends when the operation effective period ends is displayed on the effect display device 9 to show the operation effective period to the player. You may notify.
Further, as the notification means, the insects are allowed to eat the apple as the operation effective period elapses, and the effect display period is displayed on the effect display device 9 so that the apple is eaten up by the end of the operation effective period. May be notified.
Further, the operation effective period may be notified to the player by changing the lighting state of the game effect lamp 9. For example, by changing the lighting state of the lamp provided on the push button 120 from a slowly blinking state to a rapidly blinking state, the operation effective period can be notified to the player.
Further, the operation effective period may be notified to the player by sound output from the speaker 27.

  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 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.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, “the ratio is different” is not limited to only 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, for example, a case where a plurality of types of special symbols, “1” to “9”, production symbols, and normal symbols are variably displayed and the display result is derived and displayed is shown. It is not restricted to such an aspect. 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 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-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 such a case, the effect control microcomputer 100 performs the display control in accordance with the effect control command received directly from the game control microcomputer 560 in each of the above-described embodiments. Display control can be performed in accordance with commands received from the driver board 35 or the sound / lamp board.

  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.

  Also, in the above embodiment, the gaming machine that is controlled to the probability variation state after the big hit game is based on the fact that the big hit type is a probable big hit or a normal big hit and the big hit type is determined to be a promiscuous big hit. It is not limited to such a gaming machine. For example, a special variable winning ball apparatus in which a predetermined probability changing area is provided (a certain variable winning ball apparatus may be provided in a single special variable winning ball apparatus, or a plurality of special variable winning balls may be provided. A probability variation area may be provided in a part of the device), and the probability variation is determined based on the fact that the game ball has passed through the probability variation area in the special variable winning ball device during the big hit game. The configuration described in each of the above embodiments can be applied to a gaming machine that is controlled to a certain change state after the completion.

  The present invention is preferably applied to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine in which a player can play a predetermined game.

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 18c Total holding memory display part 20 Special variable winning ball device 31 Game control board (Main board)
56 CPU
560 Game control microcomputer 80 Production control board 100 Production control microcomputer 101 Production control CPU
109 VDP
120 push button

Claims (1)

A gaming machine capable of playing a game,
Detection means capable of detecting the player's movement;
Setting means capable of setting the setting state related to the production to the first state or the second state;
A specific effect execution means capable of executing a specific effect based on the detection result of the detection means;
The specific effect executing means is
In the first state, when a first effect execution condition in which one operation is continuously detected by the detection unit is satisfied, or a second effect execution condition in which a plurality of continuous operations are detected by the detection unit While a specific production can be executed when
In the second state, it is possible to execute a specific effect regardless of the detection result of the detection means,
In the first state, it is possible to execute a specific effect as the first effect execution condition is satisfied when one operation is continuously detected over a specific period by the detecting unit.
In the second state, the specific effect can be executed before the specific period elapses.

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