JP2018027356A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To display various images while preventing increase of a processing load in image display.SOLUTION: Plural kinds of component images read from an image data memory are arranged in a temporary storage area of a temporary image buffer, for creating a temporary image. The temporary image is drawn in an output image area of a frame buffer while changing a drawing position of the temporary image following to time course according to a display coordinate indicated by attribute information. The component image of a fourth pattern is not arranged in the temporary storage area and is drawn in the output image area. In a specific performance period, the temporary image is created and then the temporary image is drawn in the output image area, on the other hand, in a period other than the specific performance period, the plural kinds of component images are read from the image data memory and the component images may be drawn in the output image area. In a margin area where the temporary image is not displayed, a specific component image and the temporary image may be overlapped and displayed.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 14

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine capable of a predetermined game, such as a pachinko gaming machine.

  As an example of a gaming machine, a gaming medium such as a game ball is launched into a gaming area by a launching device, and a predetermined gaming value is determined based on the winning of a gaming medium in a winning area such as a winning opening provided in the gaming area. There is a pachinko machine that can be granted. Here, the predetermined game value is given by paying out premium game media such as prize balls and medals, adding the player's score, executing a re-game without using (digesting) the game media, and a specific game state (for example, a big hit game state) This is a concept that includes a part or all of the control to the gaming state that is more advantageous to the player than the normal gaming state.

  In a gaming machine capable of such a predetermined game, a display list in which various drawing instruction contents are shown for each frame and a plurality of characters are displayed in various arrangements has been proposed (for example, Patent Document 1).

JP 2011-212295 A

  With the technique described in Patent Document 1, when changing the image display setting, if the individual setting is changed for each type of image to be arranged, the processing load of the image display may increase.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object thereof is to provide a gaming machine capable of displaying various images while preventing an increase in processing load in image display.

(1) In order to achieve the above object, the gaming machine according to the present invention includes variable display means (for example, first and second special symbol display devices 4A, 4B, etc.) for performing variable display and deriving a display result, A state display unit that is controllable to an advantageous state (for example, a big hit gaming state) advantageous to the user and that displays a state according to the state of the variable display in the variable display means (For example, 4th symbol display areas 5I, 5J, etc.), and image display means (for example, image display device 5) that updates and displays an image related to variable display in the variable display means at predetermined intervals, and the image An image storage means (for example, an image data memory 131) for storing a plurality of types of component images constituting an image displayed on the display means; The output image area is synchronized with the output image area, and the arranged image is displayed on the image display means. For example, after executing the processing of steps S705 to S707, the temporary image object flag corresponds to OFF. A temporary image that creates a temporary image in synchronism with the predetermined period by arranging the arrangement target images included in the plurality of types of component images in the temporary storage area. Creating means (for example, the VDP 130 that executes the processes of steps S708 to S710 in response to the provisional image target flag being turned on after the process of step S706 is executed), and the output image creating means includes the temporary image creating unit Provisional image placement means for placing the temporary image created by the means in the output image area (for example, the processing of step S707 has been executed) The temporary image object flag corresponds to OFF and executes the processing of steps S708 to S710, etc., and the temporary image arrangement means includes a background image included in the plurality of types of component images as the output image creation means. By changing the temporary image layout position created by the temporary image creation means over time so that it overlaps the background image after being placed at the reference position of the output image area by (For example, refer to the provisional image swing display setting example shown in FIG. 14B), and the output image creation means does not place the part image of the state display in the state display unit in the temporary storage area. Placed in the output image area (see, for example, the fourth design drawing setting example shown in FIG. 15A), and the placement position of the temporary image created by the temporary image creation means is changed. In addition, a predetermined effect image is displayed in an area where the temporary image is not displayed in the display area of the image display means.
According to such a configuration, since the placement position of the temporary image created by placing the placement target image in the temporary storage area is changed collectively over time, the processing burden of changing the position of the display image is reduced. Various images can be displayed while preventing the increase. In addition, the visibility of the state display can be ensured by directly arranging the component image of the state display in the output image region. The output image creation unit and the temporary image creation unit are either the output image region or the temporary storage region. The component image read from the image storage means may be arranged in either the output image area or the temporary storage area by a common process according to the arrangement designation information for designating.
The output image creation means reads from the component image read from the image storage means and the temporary storage area by a common process according to read designation information designating either the image storage means or the temporary storage area. Any of the provisional images may be arranged in the output image area.

(2) In the gaming machine of (1), the temporary image placement unit temporarily stores the temporary image created by the temporary image creation unit in a specific period (for example, a specific effect period shown in FIG. 16). The output image creating means reads out from the area and arranges it in the output image area. May be read out from the image storage means and arranged in the output image area.
In such a configuration, the component image used for creating the temporary image in the specific period is read from the image storage unit in the period other than the specific period and arranged in the output image area, so that the storage data corresponding to the component image is stored. Various images can be displayed while suppressing an increase in capacity and preventing an increase in processing load in image display.

(3) In the gaming machine of the above (1) or (2), the output image creation means includes one of the plurality of output image areas (for example, the first buffer area 132B1 and the second buffer area 132B2). The image arranged in the output image area and the image arranged in the other output image area are displayed on the image display means (for example, a part for executing the processing of steps S701 to S703). A temporary image may be generated by arranging the arrangement target image in the temporary storage area (for example, a part that executes the processing of steps S708 to S710 in response to the temporary image target flag being turned on).
In such a configuration, it is possible to prevent an increase in processing load in image display by suppressing an increase in the capacity of the temporary storage area while appropriately arranging images.

(4) In any one of the gaming machines according to the above (1) to (3), the output image creation means may include a remaining area in the output image area where the temporary image created by the temporary image creation means is not arranged. A specific part image may be arranged (see, for example, the example of setting for overlapping display during reduction shown in FIG. 17A).
In such a configuration, various images can be displayed by arranging the specific component image in the remaining area.

(5) In any one of the gaming machines according to the above (1) to (4), the temporary image placement means changes the placement position of the temporary image between a predetermined forward direction side and a reverse direction side. However, it may be configured to be alternately changed and arranged in the output image area (see, for example, the provisional image swing display setting example shown in FIG. 14B).
In such a configuration, it is possible to display various images while preventing an increase in processing load in a display effect that causes the temporary image to be swung.

It is a front view of the pachinko gaming machine in this embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the various control boards etc. which were mounted in the pachinko game machine. It is a block diagram etc. which show the structural example of a display control part. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a game control process process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of a setting of a fluctuation pattern. It is a flowchart which shows an example of production control process processing. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a variable display start setting process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example etc. of an effect control pattern. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the production process during variable display. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of a components image table. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of image reading control data. It is a flowchart which shows an example of production control processing. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the image data process which VDP performs. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of a display setting of a temporary image. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of a drawing setting corresponding to a 4th symbol and a hold display. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of a temporary image creation switch setting. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of duplication display setting at the time of reduction and a rocking | fluctuation. It is a figure which shows the example of an effect execution by the reduced display of a temporary image. It is a figure which shows the example of an effect execution by the rocking | fluctuation display of a temporary image.

  Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine according to the present embodiment and shows an arrangement layout of main members. The pachinko gaming machine (gaming machine) 1 is roughly composed of a gaming board (gauge board) 2 constituting a gaming board surface and a gaming machine frame (base frame) 3 for supporting and fixing the gaming board 2. The game board 2 is formed with a substantially circular game area surrounded by guide rails. In this game area, a game ball as a game medium is launched from a predetermined hitting ball launching device and driven.

  A first special symbol display device 4A and a second special symbol display device 4B are provided at predetermined positions of the game board 2 (in the example shown in FIG. 1, on the right side of the game area). Each of the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B is composed of, for example, 7-segment or dot matrix LEDs (light emitting diodes) and the like. Special symbols (also referred to as “special graphics”), which are a plurality of types of identification information (special identification information) that can be displayed, are variably displayed (variable display). For example, each of the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B variably displays a plurality of types of special symbols composed of numbers indicating "0" to "9", symbols indicating "-", and the like. To do.

  The special symbols displayed on the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B are limited to those composed of numbers indicating "0" to "9", symbols indicating "-", and the like. However, for example, a plurality of types of lighting patterns in which the combination of the LED to be turned on and the LED to be turned off in the 7-segment LED may be set in advance as a plurality of types of special symbols. Hereinafter, the special symbol variably displayed on the first special symbol display device 4A is also referred to as "first special symbol", and the special symbol variably displayed on the second special symbol display device 4B is also referred to as "second special symbol". .

  An image display device 5 is provided near the center of the game area on the game board 2. The image display device 5 is composed of, for example, an LCD (liquid crystal display device) or the like, and forms a display area for displaying various effect images. In the display area of the image display device 5, an image related to a predetermined game executed in the pachinko gaming machine 1 is updated and displayed at a predetermined cycle such as a frame cycle of 1/60 seconds. As the display of the image relating to the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1, for example, variable display of the first special figure by the first special symbol display device 4A and variable display of the second special figure by the second special symbol display device 4B in the special figure game, respectively. Corresponding to the above, a decorative pattern, which is a plurality of types of identification information (decoration identification information) that can be identified, is variably displayed. The display area of the image display device 5 is provided with a decorative symbol display area serving as a plurality of variable display units, for example, three, and the decorative symbol variable display is performed in each decorative symbol display area. Such variable display of decorative designs is also included in the variable display game.

  In a more specific example, “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R are arranged in the display area of the image display device 5 shown in FIG. And in response to the start of one of the changes in the first special symbol in the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol in the second special symbol display device 4B in the special symbol game, In each of the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas, variation of decorative symbols (for example, scroll display in the vertical direction) is started. Thereafter, when the fixed special symbol is stopped and displayed as a variable display result in the special symbol game, the decorative symbol can be changed in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas in the image display device 5. The confirmed decorative symbol (final stop symbol) that is the display result is stopped and displayed.

  As described above, in the display area of the image display device 5, a special game using the first special graphic in the first special symbol display device 4A or a special graphic using the second special graphic in the second special symbol display device 4B is used. In synchronism with the figure game, variable display of a plurality of types of decorative symbols that can be identified is performed, and a definite decorative symbol that is a variable display result is derived and displayed (or simply referred to as “derivation”). In addition, for example, deriving and displaying various display symbols such as a special symbol and a decorative symbol means that identification information such as a decorative symbol is stopped and displayed (also referred to as a complete stop display or a final stop display) and the variable display is ended. .

  During the variable display from the start of the variable display of the decorative pattern until the fixed decorative pattern that is the variable display result is derived and displayed, the speed of change of the decorative pattern becomes “0” and the decorative pattern stops. In some cases, the display state is displayed, for example, causing slight shaking or expansion / contraction. Such a display state is also called a temporary stop display, and although the display result in the variable display is not displayed deterministically, the player can recognize that the variation of the decorative pattern due to the scroll display or the update display is not progressing. It becomes. The temporary stop display may include displaying the decorative symbols completely stopped for a time shorter than a predetermined time (for example, 1 second) without causing slight shaking or expansion / contraction.

  On the screen of the image display device 5, in addition to the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R, the start winning memory display area 5H, the fourth symbol display areas 5I, and 5J A hold number display area 5K and the like are arranged. In the start winning memory display area 5H, a hold memory display for displaying the variable display hold number corresponding to the special figure game (special figure hold memory number) is specified. In the 4th symbol display area 5I, the state display according to the state of the variable display in the special symbol game using the 1st special symbol by the 1st special symbol display device 4A is performed. In the 4th symbol display area 5H, the state display according to the state of the variable display in the special symbol game using the 2nd special symbol by the 2nd special symbol display device 4B is performed. In the number-of-holds display area 5K, a number indicating the number of special-purposes-holding memory is displayed together with the memory-holding display in the start winning memory display area 5H.

  The variable display hold corresponding to the special game is a game area of the pachinko gaming machine 1 such as the first start winning opening formed by the normal winning ball apparatus 6A and the second starting winning opening formed by the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B. Is generated on the basis of a start winning when the game ball passes (enters). That is, the start condition (also referred to as “execution condition”) for executing a variable display game such as a special figure game or a variable display of decorative symbols has been established, but a variable display game based on the previously established start condition is being executed. When the start condition that allows the start of the variable display game is not satisfied due to the fact that the pachinko gaming machine 1 is controlled to the big hit gaming state, the variable display corresponding to the established start condition is suspended. Done.

  For example, a special game start condition (first start condition) using the first special figure by the first special symbol display device 4A due to the occurrence of the first start prize that the game ball passes (enters) through the first start prize opening. ) Is satisfied, if the first start condition for starting the special figure game using the first special figure based on the establishment of the first start condition is not satisfied, the first special figure holding storage number is 1. Addition (increment) is made, and execution of the special figure game using the first special figure is suspended. In addition, when the second start winning that the game ball passes (enters) through the second start winning opening is generated, the start condition of the special figure game using the second special figure by the second special symbol display device 4B (second start condition) ) Is established, if the second start condition for starting the special figure game using the second special figure based on the establishment of the second start condition is not established, the second special figure holding memory number is 1. Addition (increment) is made, and execution of the special figure game using the second special figure is suspended. On the other hand, when the execution of the special figure game using the first special figure is started, the first special figure holding memory number is decremented by 1 (decrement), and the special figure game using the second special figure is executed. Is started, the second special figure reserved memory number is decremented by 1 (decremented).

  The variable display hold memory number obtained by adding the first special figure hold memory number and the second special figure hold memory number is also referred to as a total hold memory number. When simply referring to the “number of special figure hold memory”, it usually refers to a concept including any of the first special figure hold memory number, the second special figure hold memory number, and the total hold memory number. It may refer to a concept that includes the first special figure reserved memory number and the second special figure reserved memory number but excludes the total reserved memory number).

  In the start winning memory display area 5H, the number of special figure reserved memories can be specified by the player by the number of effect images such as predetermined character images corresponding to the first special figure and the second special figure, respectively. To do. In the hold number display area 5K, an effect image showing a predetermined number is displayed corresponding to each of the first special figure and the second special figure, so that the player can specify the special figure hold memory number. To do. In the number-of-holds display area 5K shown in FIG. 1, an effect image indicating the first special figure reservation memory number is displayed in the upper part, and an effect image indicating the second special figure reservation memory number is displayed in the lower part.

  In the 4th symbol display areas 5I and 5J, the 4th symbol is variably displayed by changing the display mode at regular time intervals. In the fourth symbol display areas 5I and 5J shown in FIG. 1, the display of the effect image indicating the symbol “◯” and the display of the effect image indicating the symbol “x” are performed every predetermined time (for example, every 0.5 seconds). ), The 4th symbol is variably displayed. In addition, it is not limited to what performs variable display by switching the display of the effect image which shows a predetermined symbol, For example, predetermined arbitrary effects, such as lighting and extinction by a predetermined display color (for example, blue), are repeated. What is necessary is just to variably display the 4th symbol by changing the state. In the fourth symbol display area 5I, the fourth symbol for the first special symbol is variably displayed in synchronization with the variable display of the first special symbol. In the fourth symbol display area 5J, the fourth symbol for the second special symbol is variably displayed in synchronization with the variable display of the second special symbol. When a predetermined big hit symbol is derived and displayed as the variable display result of the first special symbol by the first special symbol display device 4A, the variable display result is “big hit” in the fourth symbol display area 5I for the first special symbol. It is in a state where lighting with a display color (for example, red) that reminds the user is continued. When the big hit symbol is derived and displayed as the variable display result of the second special symbol by the second special symbol display device 4B, the variable display result is “big hit” in the fourth symbol display area 5J for the second special symbol. Lighting is continued with the display color to be recalled (for example, red). The first special figure and the second special figure are not limited to those having separate fourth symbol display areas 5I and 5J, and are common to the first special figure and the second special figure. The fourth symbol display area may be provided in the display area of the image display device 5.

  In addition to the start winning memory display area 5H and the hold number display area 5K, or instead of the start winning memory display area 5H and the hold number display area 5K, a display for displaying the special figure hold memory number may be provided. In the example shown in FIG. 1, together with the start winning memory display area 5H and the number-of-holds display area 5K, the number of special-article reserved memories can be specified on the upper part of the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B. A first hold indicator 25A and a second hold indicator 25B are provided. The first hold indicator 25A displays the first special figure hold memory number so that it can be specified. The second hold indicator 25B displays the second special figure hold memory number so that it can be specified. Each of the first hold indicator 25A and the second hold indicator 25B has a number (for example, 4) corresponding to an upper limit value (for example, “4”) in each of the first special figure hold memory number and the second special figure hold memory number, for example. LED).

  A display for variably displaying the fourth symbol may be provided together with the fourth symbol display areas 5I and 5J or instead of the fourth symbol display areas 5I and 5J. In this case, apart from the image display device 5, a fourth symbol display may be realized using a light emitting member such as a lamp or LED. For example, the variable display of the fourth pattern may be realized by continuing the state in which the two LEDs are alternately lit, and the variable display result is “depending on which of the two LEDs is stopped and displayed. You may be reminded of a “hit”. Moreover, you may implement | achieve a common 4th symbol display using light emitting members, such as a lamp and LED, corresponding to a 1st special figure and a 2nd special figure. In this case, when the variable display of the 4th symbol is executed in synchronization with the variable display of the first special figure, and when the variable display of the 4th symbol is executed in synchronization with the variable display of the second special figure, For example, the variable display of the fourth symbol may be performed by distinguishing the display by repeatedly turning on and off the different display colors at regular time intervals. Alternatively, when the variable display of the fourth symbol is executed in synchronization with the variable display of the first special figure, and when the variable display of the fourth symbol is executed in synchronization with the variable display of the second special figure, for example, The variable display of the 4th symbol may be executed by distinguishing the display by repeatedly turning on and off at different time intervals. Further, for example, when the stop symbol is derived and displayed corresponding to the variable display of the first special figure, and when the stop symbol is derived and displayed corresponding to the variable display of the second special figure, Alternatively, stop symbols of different modes may be stopped and displayed.

  Below the image display device 5, an ordinary winning ball device 6A and an ordinary variable winning ball device 6B are provided. The normal winning ball device 6A forms a first starting winning opening as a starting area (first starting area) that is always kept in a constant open state by a predetermined ball receiving member, for example. The normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B is an electric tulip-type accessory having a pair of movable wing pieces that are changed between a closed state in a vertical position and an open state in a tilt position by a solenoid 81 for a normal electric accessory shown in FIG. (Ordinary electric accessory) is provided and a second start winning opening is formed.

  As an example, in the normally variable winning ball apparatus 6B, the movable wing piece is in the vertical position when the solenoid 81 for the ordinary electric accessory is in the off state, so that the game ball passes (enters) through the second start winning opening. Do not close. On the other hand, in the normally variable winning ball apparatus 6B, when the solenoid 81 for the normal electric accessory is in the ON state, the movable wing piece is in the tilting position, so that the game ball passes (enters) the second starting winning hole. ) Make it open. The normally variable winning ball apparatus 6B is normally opened when the solenoid 81 is in the off state, and the game ball can enter (pass) through the second start winning opening, while the expansion when the solenoid 81 is in the on state. You may comprise so that a game ball may enter (pass) more easily than an open state. As described above, the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B has the first variable state such as the open state or the expanded open state in which the game ball can pass (enter) through the second start winning port, and the game ball cannot pass (enter). It is configured to be able to change to a second variable state such as a closed state or a normally open state that is difficult to pass (enter).

  A game ball that has entered the first start winning opening formed in the normal winning ball apparatus 6A is detected by, for example, a first start opening switch 22A shown in FIG. A game ball that has entered the second start winning opening formed in the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B is detected by, for example, a second start opening switch 22B shown in FIG. Based on the detection of the game ball by the first start port switch 22A, a predetermined number (for example, three) of game balls are paid out as prize balls (prize game media), and the first reserved memory number is a predetermined upper limit value. If it is less than (for example, “4”), the first start condition is satisfied. Based on the detection of the game ball by the second start port switch 22B, a predetermined number (for example, three) of game balls are paid out as prize balls, and if the second reserved memory number is equal to or less than a predetermined upper limit value, The second start condition is satisfied.

  The number of prize balls to be paid out based on the detection of the game ball by the first start port switch 22A and the number of prize balls to be paid out based on the detection of the game ball by the second start port switch 22B. May be the same number or different numbers. The pachinko gaming machine 1 may be one that directly pays out game balls that are prize balls, or may be one that gives a score corresponding to the number of game balls that are prize balls.

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

  As an example, in the special variable winning ball apparatus 7, when the solenoid 82 for the special prize opening door is in the OFF state, the special prize opening door closes the big winning prize opening, and the game ball passes (enters) the big winning prize opening. become unable. On the other hand, in the special variable winning ball apparatus 7, when the solenoid 82 for the big prize opening door is in the ON state, the big winning opening door opens the big winning opening and the game ball passes through the big winning opening (entrance). ). In this way, the special winning opening as a specific area changes into an open state in which a game ball easily passes (enters) and is advantageous to the player, and a closed state in which the game ball cannot pass (enters) and is disadvantageous to the player To do. Instead of the closed state where the game ball cannot pass (enter) through the big prize opening, or in addition to the closed state, a partially opened state where the game ball hardly passes (enters) through the big prize port may be provided.

  The game ball that has passed (entered) through the big prize opening is detected by, for example, the count switch 23 shown in FIG. Based on the detection of game balls by the count switch 23, a predetermined number (for example, 14) of game balls are paid out as prize balls. In this way, when the game ball passes (enters) through the large winning opening opened in the special variable winning ball apparatus 7, the gaming ball passes through other winning openings such as the first starting winning opening and the second starting winning opening, for example. More prize balls are paid out than when passing (entering). Therefore, if the special prize winning ball device 7 is in the open state, the game ball can enter the special prize winning opening, which is a first state advantageous to the player. On the other hand, when the special prize winning device 7 is closed in the special variable prize winning ball device 7, it becomes impossible or difficult for the player to get a prize ball by passing (entering) the gaming ball into the special prize winning port. This is a disadvantageous second state.

  A normal symbol display 20 is provided at a predetermined position of the game board 2 (on the left side of the game area in the example shown in FIG. 1). As an example, the normal symbol display 20 is composed of 7 segments, dot matrix LEDs, and the like, like the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B, and a plurality of types of identification information different from the special symbols. Is displayed (variably displayed) in a variable manner. Such variable display of normal symbols is called a general game (also referred to as “normal game”). Above the normal symbol display 20, a universal figure holding display 25 </ b> C is provided. The general-purpose hold indicator 25C includes, for example, four LEDs, and displays the general-purpose hold storage number as the number of effective passing balls that have passed through the passing gate 41.

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

  Speakers 8L and 8R for reproducing and outputting sound effects and the like are provided at the left and right upper positions of the gaming machine frame 3, and a game effect lamp 9 is provided at the periphery of the game area. A decorative LED may be arranged around each structure (for example, the normal winning ball device 6A, the normal variable winning ball device 6B, the special variable winning ball device 7, etc.) in the game area of the pachinko gaming machine 1. At the lower right position of the gaming machine frame 3, there is provided a hitting operation handle (operation knob) operated by a player or the like to launch a game ball as a game medium toward the game area. For example, the hitting operation handle adjusts the resilience of the game ball according to the operation amount (rotation amount) by the player or the like.

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

  For example, a stick controller 31A that can be held and tilted by the player is attached to a member that forms the lower plate, for example, at a predetermined position on the front side of the upper surface of the lower plate main body (for example, a central portion of the lower plate). Yes. The stick controller 31A includes an operation stick that the player holds, and a trigger button is provided at a predetermined position of the operation stick (for example, a position where the index finger of the operator is hooked when the player holds the operation stick). Yes. The trigger button can be operated in a predetermined direction by performing a push-pull operation with a predetermined operation finger (for example, an index finger) in a state where the player holds the operation stick of the stick controller 31A with an operation hand (for example, the left hand). What is necessary is just to be comprised. A trigger sensor that detects a predetermined instruction operation such as a push / pull operation on the trigger button may be incorporated in the operation rod.

  A controller sensor unit 35A including a tilt direction sensor unit that detects a tilting operation with respect to the operating rod may be provided inside the lower pan body or the like below the stick controller 31A. For example, the tilt direction sensor unit includes two transmissive photosensors (parallel sensors) arranged in parallel to the board surface of the game board 2 on the left side of the center position of the operation pole when viewed from the player side facing the pachinko gaming machine 1. And a pair of transmissive photosensors (vertical sensor pairs) arranged perpendicularly to the surface of the game board 2 on the right side of the center position of the operation rod when viewed from the player side. What is necessary is just to be comprised including the photo sensor.

  The member that forms the upper plate includes, for example, a push button 31B that allows a player to perform a predetermined instruction operation by a pressing operation or the like at a predetermined position on the front side of the upper surface of the upper plate body (for example, above the stick controller 31A). Is provided. The push button 31B only needs to be configured to be able to detect a predetermined instruction operation such as a pressing operation from a player mechanically, electrically, or electromagnetically. A push sensor 35 </ b> B that detects the player's operation act on the push button 31 </ b> B may be provided inside the main body of the upper plate at the installation position of the push button 31 </ b> B.

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

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

  On the main board 11, for example, a game control microcomputer 100, a switch circuit 110, a solenoid circuit 111, and the like are mounted. The switch circuit 110 takes in detection signals from various switches for detecting game balls and transmits them to the game control microcomputer 100. The solenoid circuit 111 transmits the solenoid drive signal from the game control microcomputer 100 to the solenoid 81 for the ordinary electric accessory and the solenoid 82 for the big prize door.

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

  The sound control board 13 is a control board for sound output control provided separately from the effect control board 12, and outputs sound from the speakers 8 </ b> L and 8 </ b> R based on commands and control data from the effect control board 12. For example, a processing circuit for executing audio signal processing is mounted. The lamp control board 14 is a control board for lamp output control that is provided separately from the effect control board 12, and based on commands and control data from the effect control board 12, the game effect lamp 9, LED for decoration, etc. A lamp driver circuit that performs on / off driving is mounted.

  As shown in FIG. 2, detection signals from various switches such as a gate switch 21, a start port switch (first start port switch 22 </ b> A and second start port switch 22 </ b> B), and a count switch 23 are transmitted to the main board 11. Wiring is connected. In addition, various switches should just have arbitrary structures which can detect the game ball | bowl as game media like what is called a sensor, for example. Further, the main board 11 is connected with wiring for transmitting a command signal for performing display control, such as the first special symbol display device 4A, the second special symbol display device 4B, and the normal symbol display device 20.

  A control signal transmitted from the main board 11 toward the effect control board 12 is relayed by the relay board 15. The control command transmitted from the main board 11 to the effect control board 12 via the relay board 15 is, for example, an effect control command transmitted and received as an electric signal. The effect control command includes, for example, a display control command used for controlling an image display operation in the image display device 5, a voice control command used for controlling sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R, and a game effect lamp 9. And a lamp control command used for controlling the lighting operation of the decorative LED and the like. Each of these effect control commands has, for example, a 2-byte configuration, the first byte indicates MODE (command classification), and the second byte indicates EXT (command type). The first bit (bit 7) of the MODE data is always set to “1” and the first bit of the EXT data may be set to “0” in advance.

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

  As an example, in the game control microcomputer 100, a process for controlling the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1 is executed by the CPU 103 executing a program read from the ROM 101. At this time, the CPU 103 reads fixed data from the ROM 101, the CPU 103 writes various fluctuation data to the RAM 102 and temporarily stores the fluctuation data, and the CPU 103 temporarily stores the various fluctuation data. The CPU 103 receives the input of various signals from outside the game control microcomputer 100 via the I / O 105, and the CPU 103 goes outside the game control microcomputer 100 via the I / O 105. A transmission operation for outputting various signals is also performed.

  Note that the one-chip microcomputer constituting the game control microcomputer 100 only needs to incorporate the RAM 102 in addition to the CPU 103, and the ROM 101, the random number circuit 104, the I / O 105, and the like may be externally attached.

  In the game control microcomputer 100, for example, the random number circuit 104 or the like counts the numerical data indicating various random values used for controlling the progress of the game in an updatable manner. The random number used for controlling the progress of the game is also called a game random number. The game random number may be updated by hardware such as the random number circuit 104 or may be updated by software when the CPU 103 of the game control microcomputer 100 executes a predetermined computer program. May be. For example, the random counter provided in a predetermined area (game control counter setting unit or the like) of the RAM 102 in the game control microcomputer 100 or a random counter provided in an internal register separate from the RAM 102 indicates a predetermined random number value. The random number value may be updated by storing numerical data and the CPU 103 updating the stored value regularly or irregularly.

  In addition to the game control program, the ROM 101 provided in the game control microcomputer 100 stores various selection data and table data used to control the progress of the game. For example, the ROM 101 stores data constituting a plurality of determination tables, determination tables, setting tables and the like prepared for the CPU 103 to perform various determinations, determinations, and settings. Further, the ROM 101 includes table data constituting a plurality of command tables used for the CPU 103 to transmit control signals serving as various control commands from the main board 11 and a variation pattern table storing a plurality of types of variation patterns. Table data to be stored is stored. In the RAM 102 provided in the game control microcomputer 100, various data used for controlling the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1 are temporarily stored so as to be rewritable.

  The effect control board 12 includes an effect control CPU 120 that performs a control operation in accordance with a program, a ROM 121 that stores an effect control program, fixed data, and the like, a RAM 122 that provides a work area for the effect control CPU 120, and an image display device. 5, a display control unit 123 that executes processing for determining the control content of the display operation in FIG. 5, a random number circuit 124 that updates the numerical data indicating the random number value independently of the effect control CPU 120, and the I / O 125. And are installed.

  As an example, in the effect control board 12, when the effect control CPU 120 executes an effect control program read from the ROM 121, a process for controlling the effect operation by the effect electric component is executed. At this time, the effect control CPU 120 reads the fixed data from the ROM 121, the effect control CPU 120 writes the various data to the RAM 122 and temporarily stores the data, and the effect control CPU 120 stores the effect data in the RAM 122. Fluctuation data reading operation for reading out various fluctuation data temporarily stored, the reception control CPU 120 for receiving the input of various signals from the outside of the presentation control board 12 via the I / O 125, and the presentation control CPU 120 for I / O A transmission operation for outputting various signals to the outside of the effect control board 12 via O125 is also performed.

  The effect control CPU 120, the ROM 121, and the RAM 122 may be included in a one-chip effect control microcomputer mounted on the effect control board 12. In the effect control board 12, wiring for transmitting a video signal to the image display device 5, wiring for transmitting a sound effect signal as an information signal indicating sound number data to the sound control board 13, Wiring for transmitting an electrical decoration signal as an information signal indicating lamp data is connected to the lamp control board 14. Furthermore, on the effect control board 12, wiring for transmitting from the controller sensor unit 35A an operation detection signal as an information signal indicating that the player's operation action on the stick controller 31A has been detected, and a game for the push button 31B. Wiring for transmitting from the push sensor 35B an operation detection signal as an information signal indicating that the user's operation action has been detected is also connected.

  On the effect control board 12, for example, the random number circuit 124 or the like counts the numerical data indicating various random values used for controlling the effect operation so as to be updatable. The random number used for controlling such a production operation is also called a production random number.

  In addition to the effect control program, the ROM 121 mounted on the effect control board 12 shown in FIG. 2 stores various data tables used for controlling the effect operation. For example, the ROM 121 includes a plurality of determination tables prepared for the effect control CPU 120 to perform various determinations, determinations, and settings, table data configuring the determination tables, pattern data configuring various effect control patterns, and the like. It is remembered. The effect control pattern is, for example, from process data including effect control execution data (display control data, sound control data, lamp control data, operation detection control data, etc.) associated with the effect control process timer determination value, an end code, and the like. It is configured. The RAM 122 mounted on the effect control board 12 stores various data used for controlling the effect operation.

  The display control unit 123 mounted on the effect control board 12 determines the control content of the display operation in the image display device 5 based on the display control command from the effect control CPU 120. For example, the display control unit 123 performs control for executing decorative display variable display and various effect displays by determining the switching timing of effect images to be displayed in the display area of the image display device 5. As an example, FIG. 3A illustrates a configuration example of the display control unit 123. The display control unit 123 shown in FIG. 3A includes a VDP (Video Display Processor) 130, an image data memory 131, a temporary image buffer 132A, a frame buffer 132B, and an LCD drive circuit 133. Note that the VDP 130 may be a graphics processing unit (GPU), a graphics controller LSI (GCL), or a microprocessor for image processing, more commonly referred to as a DSP (Digital Signal Processor). The image data memory 131 may be a non-rewritable semiconductor memory, a rewritable semiconductor memory such as a flash memory, or a non-volatile recording medium such as a magnetic memory or an optical memory, for example. It is sufficient if it is configured using

  The VDP 130 has, for example, an image data processing function such as a high-speed drawing function and a moving image decoding function for displaying various images on the screen of the image display device 5, and image data in accordance with a display control command from the effect control CPU 120. An image processor that executes processing. The image data memory 131 stores in advance image data corresponding to a plurality of types of component images as an original image constituting an image displayed on the image display device 5. For example, the image data stored in the image data memory 131 includes a plurality of types of component image data respectively corresponding to a plurality of types of decorative symbols that are variably displayed on the image display device 5. In addition, the image data stored in the image data memory 131 includes effect images indicating characters (persons, animals, characters, figures, symbols, etc.) displayed on the image display device 5, and other effect images (background images, animations). A plurality of types of component image data respectively corresponding to images, moving images, and the like) are included.

  The temporary image buffer 132A is configured using, for example, a RAM, and temporarily stores a temporary image created by arranging image data indicating arrangement target images included in a plurality of types of component images according to a predetermined pattern as a temporary storage area. Remember. The temporary image is created in synchronization with a predetermined cycle such as a frame cycle of the image display device 5, for example. The temporary image buffer 132A stores a temporary image corresponding to one frame created by arranging a plurality of types of component images read from the image data memory 131. A drawing process or the like may be executed so that one temporary image stored in the temporary image buffer 132A is continuously displayed in a plurality of frames in the image display device 5. In this case, the provisional image is created in synchronization with the frame period of the image display device 5, for example, while the provisional image once created is stored in the provisional image buffer 132A in correspondence with a plurality of frame periods. The same provisional image may be repeatedly read every time a plurality of display images are generated in synchronization with the frame period.

  The frame buffer 132B provides an output image area that is used to draw or display an image. As shown in FIG. 3B, the frame buffer 132B is provided with a first buffer area 132B-1 and a second buffer area 132B-2. These two buffer areas 132B-1 and 132B-2 realize a so-called double buffering function by alternately switching between drawing and display at predetermined intervals. The VDP 130 uses the other buffer area (for example, the second buffer area 132B-) during the period in which the image drawn (developed) in one buffer area (for example, the first buffer area 132B-1) is displayed on the image display device 5. 2) A process of developing the image data is executed. For each of the first buffer area 132B-1 and the second buffer area 132B-2, a plurality of types of component images read from the image data memory 131 and a temporary image read from the temporary image buffer 132A are used. The display image for one frame generated in this way is stored. The VDP 130 generates a display image by drawing a plurality of types of component images and provisional images in the frame buffer 132B in synchronization with a predetermined period such as a frame period of the image display device 5, for example.

  The temporary image buffer 132 </ b> A and the frame buffer 132 </ b> B may be provided in a common VRAM built in or externally attached to the VDP 130, or may be configured using separate RAMs built in or externally attached to the VDP 130. In a temporary storage medium such as a VRAM, in addition to the temporary image buffer 132A and the frame buffer 132B, a palette data buffer for temporarily storing predetermined palette data, drawing parameters (for example, character drawing order, number of colors, display magnification) Attribute data buffer for temporarily storing attribute data indicating pallet number, display coordinates, etc., and a display list buffer for temporarily storing a display list composed of display control commands output from the CPU 120 for effect control. A part or all of them may be provided.

  In the process of placing the component image in the temporary storage area of the temporary image buffer 132A, as in the process of drawing the component image or the temporary image in the output image area of the frame buffer 132B, the image data (R , G, and B) can be written in the temporary storage area. The process of arranging the component image in the temporary storage area of the temporary image buffer 132A is not limited to the process of writing the image data corresponding to the video signal of the display image. For example, the display area of the image display device 5 has a predetermined size. The component image arranged in each section may be shown in a identifiable manner by associating the two-dimensional coordinates assigned to each of the plurality of sections with the component image ID. As described above, the process of arranging the component image in the temporary storage area of the temporary image buffer 132A may be the same process as the process of drawing the component image or the temporary image in the output image area of the frame buffer 132B, or a different process. It may be. The process of drawing a component image or a temporary image in the output image area of the frame buffer 132B is performed using a component image stored in advance in the image data memory 131 or a temporary image stored in the temporary storage area of the temporary image buffer 132A. Any processing may be used as long as it is arranged in the output image area without performing the deformation processing or the like.

  The VDP 130 may be provided with a reading circuit, a reading control circuit, a drawing circuit, a display circuit, various interfaces, various buses, and the like. The reading circuit reads component image data from the image data memory 131 and supplies it to a drawing circuit or the like based on control by the reading control circuit. The reading control circuit and the drawing circuit analyze display control commands constituting the display list and the like output from the effect control CPU 120, and based on the analysis results, read control of component image data, creation of temporary images, and display images Various image processing such as drawing is executed. The drawing circuit writes the component image data read by the reading circuit to the temporary image buffer 132A or the frame buffer 132B, thereby creating a temporary image or generating a display image. When creating a temporary image, the drawing circuit places a component image corresponding to the component image data read by the reading circuit in the temporary storage area of the temporary image buffer 132A. Thereby, a temporary image is created in synchronization with a predetermined period such as a frame period of the image display device 5, for example. Further, when generating a display image, the drawing circuit draws a temporary image temporarily stored in the temporary image buffer 132A or a component image corresponding to the component image data read by the reading circuit in the frame buffer 132B. Draw in the buffer area. At this time, the temporary image temporarily stored in the temporary image buffer 132A is treated as an object as one drawing unit and is drawn in the output image area, similarly to one component image read from the image data memory 131. . Therefore, the temporary image created by arranging a plurality of types of component images in the temporary storage area of the temporary image buffer 132A can set attributes such as display magnification and display coordinates as one display target image. Note that the drawing circuit is not limited to creating a temporary image by placing a component image in the temporary storage area of the temporary image buffer 132A. For example, a component image read from the image data memory 131 by the reading circuit is used as it is. It may be arranged in the temporary storage area of the buffer 132A.

  The display circuit of the VDP 130 reads a display image for one frame from the display buffer area in the frame buffer 132B in synchronization with a predetermined period, for example, a frame period of the image display apparatus 5, and configures the display area of the image display apparatus 5 Is output to the LCD drive circuit 133 as gradation data (color signal data) of each pixel. The LCD driving circuit 133 generates a color signal corresponding to the gradation data (color signal data) supplied from the VDP 130, generates a scanning signal based on a predetermined clock signal, and outputs the scanning signal to the image display device 5. For example, various images are displayed in the display area of the image display device 5.

  The I / O 125 mounted on the effect control board 12 includes, for example, an input port for capturing an effect control command transmitted from the main board 11 and the like, and an output port for transmitting various signals to the outside of the effect control board 12. It is comprised including. For example, from the output port of the I / O 125, a video signal transmitted to the image display device 5, a command (sound effect signal) transmitted to the sound control board 13, and a command transmitted to the lamp control board 14 (Lighting signal) etc. are output.

  On the voice control board 13, for example, an input / output driver, a voice synthesis IC, a voice data ROM, an amplifier circuit, a volume, and the like are mounted. As an example, in the voice control board 13, the sound number data indicated in the sound effect signal transmitted from the effect control board 12 is input to the voice synthesis IC via the input / output driver. The voice synthesis IC generates voice and sound effects corresponding to the sound number data and outputs them to the amplifier circuit. The amplifier circuit outputs an audio signal obtained by amplifying the output level of the speech synthesis IC to a level corresponding to the volume set by the volume to the speakers 8L and 8R. The voice data ROM stores control data corresponding to the sound number data, and the voice synthesis IC reads out the control data corresponding to the sound number data to generate voice and sound effects. The data stored in the audio data ROM may be composed of data indicating the output mode of audio and sound effects in a predetermined period in time series.

  For example, an input / output driver and a lamp driver are mounted on the lamp control board 14. As an example, in the lamp control board 14, the electrical decoration signal transmitted from the effect control board 12 is input to the lamp driver via the input / output driver. The lamp driver amplifies the electric decoration signal and supplies it to the game effect lamp 9 and the decoration LED.

  In the pachinko gaming machine 1, a predetermined game using a game ball as a game medium is performed, and a predetermined game value can be given based on the game result.

  As an example of a game using a game ball, a predetermined hit ball is based on a predetermined operation (for example, a rotation operation) performed by a player on a hit ball operation handle 30 installed on the lower right side of the front surface of the housing of the pachinko gaming machine 1. A game ball as a game medium is launched toward a game area by a launch motor provided in the launch device. When the game ball flowing down the game area passes (enters) the first start winning opening (first start area) formed in the normal winning ball apparatus 6A, the game ball is detected by the first start opening switch 22A. Based on this, a start condition (first start condition) for executing variable display of the special symbol (first special symbol) by the first special symbol display device 4A is established. Further, when the game ball passes (enters) the second start winning opening (second start area) formed in the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B, the game ball is detected by the second start opening switch 22B. Thus, a start condition (second start condition) for executing variable display of the special symbol (second special symbol) by the second special symbol display device 4B is established.

  Although the variable display start condition (the first start condition or the second start condition) is satisfied, for example, when the variable display based on the previously established start condition is executed, or the gaming state is controlled to the big hit gaming state If the variable display cannot be started, such as when it is being performed, it is variable until a predetermined upper limit value (for example, “4” corresponding to each of the first special figure and the second special figure) is reached. Display execution is suspended.

  A start condition (first start condition or second start condition) for starting variable display after the game ball passes (enters) the first start winning opening and the second start winning opening and the variable display start condition is satisfied. ) Is established, whether or not to make the variable display result “big hit” as a predetermined specific display result is determined before the variable display result is derived and displayed.

  Then, the variation pattern is determined at a predetermined ratio based on the determination of the variable display result, and an effect control command for specifying the variable display result and the change pattern is specified from the main board 11 to the effect control board 12. Is transmitted. Based on the determination of the variable display result and the variation pattern, variable display of special symbols and decorative symbols is started. After that, for example, when a predetermined variable display time corresponding to the variation pattern has elapsed, a fixed symbol that is a variable display result is stopped and displayed (derived display).

  In the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R provided in the display area of the image display device 5, decorative symbols corresponding to the special game are variably displayed. In the fourth symbol display area 5I provided in the display area of the image display device 5, variable display of the fourth symbol corresponding to the special symbol game using the first special symbol is performed. In the fourth symbol display area 5J provided in the display area of the image display device 5, variable display of the fourth symbol corresponding to the special symbol game using the second special symbol is performed.

  In the period from the start of the variable display of the decorative symbols to the end of the variable display by the stop display of the fixed decorative symbols in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R, The decorative display variable display state may be a reach state. Here, the decorative display variable display state is a decoration that has not been stopped and displayed yet when the decorative pattern that is stopped and displayed in any of the decorative design display areas constitutes a part of a predetermined jackpot combination. Reach status for symbols (also referred to as “reach variation symbols”) by continuing variation, or by changing all or part of the decorative symbols synchronously while constituting all or part of the jackpot combination It becomes.

  Specifically, in some of the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R (for example, “left” and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L and 5R) in advance. The remaining decorative symbol display area (for example, “medium”) that has not yet been stopped when the decorative symbol (for example, the decorative symbol indicating the alphanumeric character “7”) that constitutes the determined jackpot combination is stopped. In the symbol display area 5C, etc., the decorative symbols may be a big hit combination by changing the decorative symbols, or in all or part of the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R. The variable display state of the decorative symbol becomes the reach state by changing in synchronism while constituting all or a part.

  Corresponding to the fact that the variable display state of the decorative design has reached the reach state, the variation speed of the decorative design is reduced, or a character image (person or the like) different from the decorative design is displayed in the display area of the image display device 5. Display images), changing the display mode of the background image, playing and displaying a moving image that is different from the decorative design, or changing the variation of the decorative design. There may be a case where an effect operation different from the state before reaching the reach state is executed. Such effect operations such as the display of the character image, the change of the display mode of the background image, the playback display of the moving image, and the change of the variation pattern of the decorative pattern are referred to as reach effect display (or simply “reach effect”). In the reach effect, not only the display operation in the image display device 5, but also the sound output operation by the speakers 8L and 8R, the lighting operation (flashing operation) in the game effect lamp 9 and the decoration LED, and the operation of the effect movable member Or the like may be included in an operation mode different from that before the decorative symbol variable display state becomes “reach”.

  As an effect operation in the reach effect, a plurality of types of effect patterns (also referred to as “reach patterns”) having different operation modes (reach modes) may be prepared in advance. Each reach mode has a different possibility of “big hit” (also referred to as “reliability” or “big hit reliability”). That is, it is possible to vary the possibility that the variable display result will be a “hit” depending on which of the multiple types of reach effects is executed.

  As an example, in this embodiment, reach modes such as normal reach, super reach A to super reach D are preset. And, when the reach form of super reach such as super reach A to super reach D appears, there is a possibility that the variable display result will be “big hit” compared to the case where the reach form of normal reach appears (big hit reliability) Becomes higher. Note that the case where the decorative display variable display state does not reach the reach state is also referred to as “non-reach”, and there is no possibility that the variable display result will be a “big hit” unless a special combination such as a predetermined chance eye is obtained. .

  When a definite symbol (determined special symbol), which is a variable symbol display result in the special symbol game using the first special symbol or the second special symbol, is derived and displayed, the image display device 5 displays the decorative symbol variable symbol display result. A variable display result of the determined symbol (definite decorative symbol) and the fourth symbol is derived and displayed. In this way, the time at which variable display of special symbols, decorative symbols, and even the fourth symbol is started is almost the same (may be exactly the same), and the variable display period is almost the same (may be exactly the same). ), Each variable display is performed synchronously.

  When a predetermined jackpot symbol is derived and displayed as a variable symbol display result of the special symbol, the variable display result becomes “big jackpot” (specific display result), which is controlled to a jackpot gaming state as a specific gaming state advantageous to the player. The That is, whether or not the game state is controlled to the big hit gaming state corresponds to whether or not the variable display result is “big hit”, and is determined (predetermined) before the variable display result is derived and displayed. A combination of decorative symbols that reminds a big hit in the image display device 5 when the big special symbol display is stopped on the first special symbol display device 4A and when the big special symbol display is stopped on the second special symbol display device 4B (Big hit combination) is stopped.

  In the big hit gaming state, the solenoid 82 for the big winning opening door is driven, and the big winning opening provided at a predetermined position in the gaming area is in an open state (first state). Then, in a predetermined period (for example, 29 seconds) or a period until a predetermined number (for example, 9) of game balls enter the big prize opening and a winning ball is generated, the big winning opening is opened in an advantageous state for the player. A round in the (first state) is executed. During periods other than the execution period of such rounds, the special winning opening is set in a closed state (second state) that is disadvantageous to the player.

  When a game ball enters the big prize opening, the winning ball is detected by the count switch 23, and a predetermined number (for example, 15) of game balls are paid out as a prize ball for each detection. The round in the big hit gaming state is repeatedly executed until a predetermined upper limit number (for example, “15”) is reached. Therefore, in the big hit gaming state, the player can acquire a large number of prize balls very easily, and the gaming state is advantageous to the player. Note that the pachinko gaming machine 1 may be one that directly pays out game balls that are prize balls, or may be one that gives a score corresponding to the number of game balls that are prize balls.

  After the big hit gaming state is ended, the probability that the variable display result is “big hit” (big hit probability) may be controlled to a probability change state where the probability is higher than the normal state. The probability change state is controlled so as to continue until a predetermined probability change end condition such as a predetermined number of variable displays is executed or the next big hit gaming state is started.

  In addition, after the big hit gaming state is ended, the average variable display time may be controlled to a short state when it becomes shorter than the normal state. The short-time state is controlled to continue until one of the short-time end conditions is established first, among the fact that a predetermined number of variable displays have been executed and the next big hit gaming state has been started. .

  In the certain change state and the short time state, the advantageous opening control that makes it easier for the game ball to pass through the start winning opening than in the normal state may be performed. By controlling to such a probable change state and a short time state, the time required until the next variable display result becomes “big hit” is shortened, and a special game state that is more advantageous to the player than the normal state is obtained.

  The game ball used as a game medium in such a pachinko gaming machine 1 and the recorded information of the score given corresponding to the number thereof have a valuable value that can be exchanged for a special prize or a general prize according to the quantity, for example. Anything is acceptable. Alternatively, these game balls and score recording information may not be exchanged for special prizes or general prizes, but may have valuable value that can be used for a second game in the pachinko gaming machine 1.

  The game value that can be given in the pachinko gaming machine 1 is not limited to paying out a game ball as a winning ball or giving a score. For example, the game value is controlled to a big hit game state or a special game state such as a probability change state. In other words, the maximum number of rounds that can be executed in the big hit gaming state is the first round number (for example, “15”) larger than the second round number (for example, “2”), and the variable that can be executed in the short time state. The upper limit number of times of display is a first number (for example, “100”) larger than the second number of times (for example, “50”), and the big hit probability in the probability variation state is higher than the second probability (for example, 1/50). The first that the probability of being a probability (for example, 1/20), the number of consecutive chunks, which is the number of times of repeated control to the big hit gaming state without being controlled to the normal state, is greater than the second consecutive number of chunks (for example, “5”) Ream Number of emissions (for example, "10") and such part or all of becoming, it may include be a more favorable game situation for the player.

  Next, the operation (action) of the pachinko gaming machine 1 in this embodiment will be described.

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

  When the CPU 103 that has executed such a game control main process receives an interrupt request signal from the CTC and receives an interrupt request, it executes a predetermined game control timer interrupt process. When the game control timer interrupt process is started, the CPU 103 first executes a predetermined switch process, thereby causing the gate switch 21, the first start port switch 22A, the second start port switch 22B, and the count through the switch circuit 110. The state of the detection signal input from various switches such as the switch 23 is determined. Subsequently, by executing predetermined main-side error processing, abnormality diagnosis of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is performed, and a warning can be generated if necessary according to the diagnosis result. Thereafter, by executing a predetermined information output process, for example, data such as jackpot information, start information, probability variation information supplied to a hall management computer installed outside the pachinko gaming machine 1 is output.

  Subsequent to the information output process, a game random number update process for updating at least a part of the game random numbers used on the main board 11 side by software is executed. Thereafter, the CPU 103 executes game control process processing. In the game control process, the value of the game process flag provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 102 is updated according to the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1, and the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B. Various processes are selected and executed in order to perform control of the display operation in, and setting the opening / closing operation of the special winning opening in the special variable winning ball apparatus 7 in a predetermined procedure.

  Thereafter, the CPU 103 transmits a control command from the main board 11 to the sub-side control board such as the effect control board 12 by executing a command control process. As an example, in the command control process, the effect control board 12 out of the output ports included in the I / O 105 corresponds to the setting in the command transmission table specified by the value of the transmission command buffer provided in the predetermined area of the RAM 102. After the control data is set in the output port for transmitting the production control command to the output, the predetermined control data is set in the output port of the production control INT signal and the production control INT signal is turned on for a predetermined time and then turned off. By setting the status, etc., it is possible to transmit the effect control command based on the setting in the command transmission table. After executing the command control process, after setting the interrupt enabled state, the game control timer interrupt process is terminated.

  FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the game control process. In the game control process shown in FIG. 4, the CPU 103 of the game control microcomputer 100 first determines whether or not a start winning has occurred (step S11). As an example, in step S11, an input state (on / off) of a start winning signal as a detection signal transmitted from the first start port switch 22A or the second start port switch 22B is checked. What is necessary is just to determine with winning.

  If a start winning is generated in step S11 (step S11; Yes), a winning random number is stored (step S12). As an example, in the process of step S12, a random number circuit 104 built in (or externally attached to) the game control microcomputer 100, a random counter provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 102 in the game control microcomputer 100, or a game control microcomputer A gaming random number (random number for determining a variable display result, gaming state determining random number, etc.) updated by at least a part of a random counter configured using an internal register provided separately from the RAM 102 in the computer 100 A part or all of the numerical data indicating the random number and the random number for determining the variation pattern) is extracted. The random number value extracted at this time may be stored in association with the hold number, for example, in a hold random value storage unit provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 102 in the game control microcomputer 100.

  The random number storage unit for holding provided in the RAM 102 is extracted from the random number circuit 104 or the like for the variable display that has not yet started even though the game ball has passed through the first start winning opening or the second starting winning opening. A part or all of the numerical data indicating the game random number is stored as variable storage on-hold storage information within a predetermined upper limit storage number (eg, “4”). For example, the holding random number storage unit may be configured to include a first special figure storage unit and a second special figure storage unit. The first special chart storage unit is a special game (not yet started) even though the game ball has passed through (entered) the first start winning opening formed by the normal winning ball apparatus 6A and the first start winning has occurred. On-hold storage information of the first special symbol display device 4A in the first special symbol display device 4A is stored in association with the hold number in the winning order (game ball detection order) to the first start winning opening. . The second special chart storage unit is a special game that has not yet started, although the game ball has passed (entered) through the second start winning opening formed by the normally variable winning ball apparatus 6B and a second start winning has occurred. The stored storage information of (the special game using the second special figure in the second special symbol display device 4B) is stored in association with the hold number in the winning order (game ball detection order) to the second start winning opening. To do.

  The hold storage information thus stored in the first special figure storage unit indicates that the execution of the special figure game using the first special figure is suspended, and the variable display result (special figure display) in this special figure game. Based on the result, it is possible to determine whether or not it is determined to control to the big hit gaming state, and whether or not the variable display mode of the decorative symbol becomes a specific mode (for example, the reach effect of super reach). Further, the hold storage information stored in the second special figure storage unit indicates that the execution of the special figure game using the second special figure is suspended, and the variable display result (special figure) in this special figure game. It is possible to determine whether or not it is determined to control to the big hit gaming state based on the display result), or whether or not the variable display mode of the decorative symbol becomes a specific mode (for example, a reach effect of super reach).

  Subsequent to the processing in step S12, various control commands corresponding to the start winning prize are transmitted (step S13). As an example, in the process of step S <b> 13, it is only necessary to make a setting for transmitting a start winning designation command for notifying the occurrence of a start winning to the effect control board 12. Further, based on the random display result determination random number value and the variation pattern determination random number value extracted by the process of step S12, the variation pattern has a specific variation with a specific reach effect such as super reach A to super reach D. You may make it determine whether it is determined to a pattern. In this case, a setting for transmitting a winning determination result specifying command capable of specifying a determination result as to whether or not a specific variation pattern is determined may be performed.

  In the process of determining whether or not a specific variation pattern is determined, first, it is determined whether or not the variable display result is determined as “big hit” using a random value for determining the variable display result. For example, in a predetermined area of the ROM 101 in the game control microcomputer 100, a variable display result determination table in which a determination value is set for the determination result of whether or not the variable display result is “big hit” is stored in advance. Whether or not the variable display result is determined to be “big hit” by specifying the determination result to which the determination value matching the random value for determining the variable display result extracted by the process of step S12 is assigned. Can be determined. Subsequently, a variation pattern determination table in which different determination values are set for a plurality of types of variation patterns is selected according to the determination result of whether or not the variable display result is determined to be “big hit”. This variation pattern determination table may be stored in advance in a predetermined area of the ROM 101 in the game control microcomputer 100.

  By referring to the variation pattern determination table thus selected, a variation pattern to which a determination value that matches the random number value for variation pattern extraction extracted in step S12 is assigned is specified. Thereby, it can be determined whether it is determined to be a specific variation pattern for performing a specific reach effect such as super reach A to super reach D. As described above, when the game ball passes through the start winning opening (the first start winning opening or the second start winning opening) and the start winning is generated, the execution of the variable display game corresponding to the starting winning is started. Before, it is determined whether or not the variation pattern is determined to be a specific variation pattern, and a winning determination result designation command capable of specifying the determination result is transmitted from the main board 11 to the effect control board 12. Just do it.

  When no start winning has occurred in step S11 (step S11; No), after executing the process of step S13, the value of the game process flag is determined (step S21). Then, a process corresponding to the determination value is selected from a plurality of processes previously described in the game control computer program and executed.

  For example, when the value of the game process flag is “0”, it is determined whether or not variable symbol display (variable display game) can be started (step S101). As an example, in the process of step S101, it is determined whether or not the number of holds of the variable display game is “0” by checking the stored contents of the random number storage unit for holding. At this time, if the number of hold is other than “0”, the variable display is started because the start of the variable display has been satisfied and the variable display has not been started yet. Determine that it is possible. On the other hand, when the hold number is “0”, it is determined that variable display cannot be started.

  When variable display cannot be started in step S101 (step S101; No), the game control process is terminated. On the other hand, when variable display can be started (step S101; Yes), a fixed symbol derived and displayed as a variable display result is determined (step S102). At this time, the random number for game (random number for variable display result determination, random number for game state determination, random pattern determination for variation pattern) stored at the head (storage area with the minimum hold number) in the random number storage unit for hold Read random number value). The game random number read from the holding random value storage unit may be temporarily stored in a variable display random number buffer or the like provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 102 in the game control microcomputer 100. Then, using a random value for determining the variable display result and the variable display result determination table, it is determined at a predetermined ratio whether or not the variable display result is “big hit”. Here, when the gaming state in the pachinko gaming machine 1 is a probable variation state, the variable display result determination table is determined so that the variable display result is determined to be “big hit” at a higher rate than in the normal state or the short time state. It is sufficient that the determination value is set.

  When the variable display result is determined to be “big hit” in the process of step S102, the gaming state after the end of the big hit gaming state is further changed using the random number value for gaming state determination and the gaming state determination table. Decide whether or not to enter the special gaming state. Corresponding to these determination results, a fixed symbol derived and displayed as a variable display result may be determined.

  Following the processing in step S102, an internal flag and the like are set (step S103). As an example, in the process of step S103, when the variable display result is determined as “big hit” in the process of step S102, the big hit flag provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 102 in the game control microcomputer 100 is turned on. set. Further, when it is determined that the gaming state after the end of the big hit gaming state is to be a probability variation state, a probability variation confirmation flag provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 102 in the game control microcomputer 100 is set to an on state. In addition, it may be stored in such a way that it can be specified that the state is likely to change. Thereafter, the value of the game process flag is updated to “1” (step S104), and the game control process process is terminated.

  When the value of the game process flag is “1”, a variation pattern or the like is determined (step S111). FIG. 5 shows a setting example of a variation pattern used in the pachinko gaming machine 1. Each variation pattern indicates that the required time (variable display time) from the start of variable display to the display of a fixed symbol that is a variable display result can be specified and the outline of the production mode can be specified. In this embodiment, among the cases where the variable display result is “losing”, the variable display mode of the decorative symbols variably displayed on the image display device 5 is “non-reach” and “reach”. A plurality of variation patterns are prepared in advance corresponding to each case and when the variable display result is “big hit”. For the variation pattern, a plurality of patterns are prepared in advance for each variation time (variable display time) in the variable display of the special figure game or the decorative design. Therefore, by determining the variation pattern, it is possible to determine the variable display time for special symbols and decorative symbols.

  In the process of step S111, the variation pattern to be used is determined at a predetermined rate using the variation pattern determination random value temporarily stored in the variable display random number buffer and the variation pattern determination table. At this time, the variable display result may become “big hit” corresponding to each fluctuation pattern by changing the determination ratio of each fluctuation pattern depending on whether or not the variable display result is decided as “big hit” (Big hit reliability) can be varied.

  Further, in the process of step S111, it may be determined whether or not the variable display state of the decorative symbol is set to “reach” by determining a variation pattern when the variable display result is determined to be “losing”. . Alternatively, prior to determining the variation pattern, it may be determined whether or not the variable display state of the decorative symbol is set to “reach” by using the reach determination random number value and the reach determination table. That is, in the process of step S111, it is only necessary to determine the variation pattern as one of a plurality of types based on the variable display result and the determination result of reach.

  Subsequent to the process of step S111, various control commands corresponding to the start of variable display are transmitted (step S112). As an example, in the process of step S112, as a variable display start command for designating the start of variable display, a variable display result notification command for notifying a variable display result, a variable display such as a variable display time of a decorative symbol and a type of reach effect, etc. A setting for transmitting a variation pattern designation command for notifying a variation pattern indicating a mode may be performed. Further, in response to the decrease in the hold count due to the start of variable display, a setting for transmitting a hold count notification command for notifying the hold count after the decrease may be performed.

  The variable display time is set in response to the change pattern being determined by the process of step S112. Moreover, the setting for starting the variable display of the special symbol by either the first special symbol display device 4A or the second special symbol display device 4B may be performed. As an example, variable display of symbols may be started by transmitting a predetermined drive signal to either the first special symbol display device 4A or the second special symbol display device 4B. Which special symbol display device using the special symbol on which special symbol display device is to be executed is a special symbol game based on whether the game ball has passed through the first starting winning port or the second starting winning port It may be set accordingly. More specifically, a special game is played by the first special symbol display device 4A based on the fact that the game ball has passed through the first start winning opening. On the other hand, based on the fact that the game ball has passed through the second start winning opening, a special game by the second special symbol display device 4B is performed. Thereafter, the value of the game process flag is updated to “2” (step S113), and the game control process process is terminated.

  When the value of the game process flag is “2”, it is determined whether or not the variable display time has elapsed (step S121). And when variable display time has not passed (step S121; No), after performing variable display control of a special symbol (step S122), game control process processing is ended. On the other hand, when the variable display time has elapsed (step S121; Yes), the variable symbol special display is stopped, and the final symbol is controlled to be derived and displayed (step S123).

  Subsequent to the processing in step S123, various control commands corresponding to the end of variable display are transmitted (step S124). As an example, in the process of step S124, a variable display end command for instructing the end (stop) of variable display or a big hit start specifying command (fanfare command for specifying the start of a big hit gaming state when the variable display result is “big hit”. ) And the like may be set for transmission.

  After the process of step S124 is executed, it is determined whether or not the variable display result is “big hit” (step S125). If the variable display result is “big hit” (step S125; Yes), the value of the game process flag is updated to “3” (step S126), and the game control process is terminated. On the other hand, when the variable display result is not “big hit” but “losing” (step S125; No), the game process flag is cleared and the value is initialized to “0” (step S125). S127), the game control process is terminated. When the process of step S127 is executed, it is determined whether or not the probability variation state or the time saving state is to be ended, and when it is determined that the predetermined condition is to be ended, these gaming states are ended. Settings for controlling to a normal state may be performed.

  When the value of the game process flag is “3”, it is determined whether or not to end the big hit gaming state depending on whether or not a predetermined big hit end condition is satisfied (step S131). The jackpot end condition may be, for example, that all rounds executed in the jackpot gaming state have ended. When the big hit game state is not ended (step S131; No), the game operation control at the time of the big hit is performed (step 132), and the game control process is ended. On the other hand, when ending the big hit gaming state (step S131; Yes), the setting for controlling the gaming state after the big hit ending is performed (step S133).

  As an example, in the process of step S133, it is determined whether or not the probability variation confirmation flag is on. If it is on, the probability variation flag provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 102 in the game control microcomputer 100 is turned on. Set to. Thus, when it is determined that the variable display result is “big hit”, and it is decided that the gaming state after the end of the big hit gaming state is to be a probable change state, a game corresponding to this decision result is made. It is possible to control the state to a certain change state. Even in the case of controlling to the short time state, a setting corresponding to this may be performed. Thereafter, the game process flag is cleared and its value is initialized to “0” (step S134), and the game control process is terminated.

  Next, the operation in the effect control board 12 will be described. The effect control board 12 is supplied with a power supply voltage from a power supply board or the like. In the effect control CPU 120 in which the power supply for activation is started, a predetermined effect control main process is executed. When the production control main process is started, the production control CPU 120 first executes a predetermined startup process. Thereafter, it is determined whether or not the timer interrupt flag is on. The timer interrupt flag is set to the ON state every time a predetermined time (for example, 2 milliseconds) elapses based on, for example, the CTC register setting. Such an interrupt for turning on the timer interrupt flag is a timer interrupt for effect control. The effect control CPU 120 waits until an effect control timer interrupt occurs.

  When a timer interrupt for effect control occurs and the timer interrupt flag is turned on, the timer interrupt flag is cleared and turned off, and a timer interrupt process for effect control is executed. In addition to the timer control process for effect control, the CPU 120 for effect control can execute an interrupt process for receiving a command, and can receive an effect control command transmitted from the main board 11 via the relay board 15. It only needs to be received. In the timer control process for effect control, the effect control CPU 120 executes command analysis processing. In the command analysis processing, it is determined whether or not an effect control command has been received. If there is a reception, setting or control corresponding to the received command is performed. After executing the command analysis process, the effect control process is executed. In the effect control process, for example, an effect image display operation in the display area of the image display device 5, an audio output operation from the speakers 8L and 8R, a lighting operation in a decorative light emitter (light emitting member) such as a game effect lamp 9 and a decorative LED. The operation control contents using various effect devices, such as the drive operation of the effect movable member, are determined, determined, and set according to the effect control command transmitted from the main board 11. Following the effect control process, an effect random number update process is executed, and numerical data indicating effect random numbers counted as various random values used for effect control is updated by software.

  FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the effect control process. In the effect control process shown in FIG. 6, the effect control CPU 120 determines the value of the effect process flag stored in a predetermined area or the like of the RAM 122, and from a plurality of processes described in advance in the effect control computer program, A process corresponding to the judgment value is selected and executed. The processing executed according to the determination value of the effect process flag includes the processing of steps S170 to S176.

  The variable display start waiting process in step S170 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “0”. The variable display start waiting process performs variable display of decorative symbols on the screen of the image display device 5 based on whether the first variation start command or the second variation start command transmitted from the main board 11 is received. It includes a process for determining whether or not to start. The first variation start command is an effect control command for notifying that the special figure game using the first special figure by the first special symbol display device 4A is started. The second variation start command is an effect control command for notifying that the special figure game using the second special figure by the second special symbol display device 4B is started. When either the first change start command or the second change start command is received, the value of the effect process flag is updated to “1”.

  The variable display start setting process in step S171 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “1”. This variable display start setting process is performed on the screen of the image display device 5 in response to the start of variable display of special symbols in the special symbol game by the first special symbol display device 4A or the second special symbol display device 4B. In order to perform the variable display of decorative symbols and other various effects, the process of determining the fixed decorative symbols and various effect control patterns according to the variation pattern of the special symbols and the type of display result is included. . When the variable display start setting process is executed, the value of the effect process flag is updated to “2”.

  The variable display effect process in step S172 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “2”. In the effect processing during variable display, the effect control CPU 120 performs various control data from the effect control pattern corresponding to the timer value in the effect control process timer provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 122 (such as an effect control timer setting unit). , And various kinds of effect control during the variable display of the decorative symbols are included. In addition, in the variable display effect processing, in response to the reception of the symbol confirmation command transmitted from the main board 11, the finalized symbol as the final stop symbol resulting in the variable symbol variable display result is displayed as a complete stop. Processing to display (derived display) is included. Note that, in response to the end code being read from the predetermined effect control pattern, the finalized decorative symbol may be displayed in a complete stop (derived display). In this case, when the variable display time corresponding to the variation pattern designated by the variation pattern designation command has elapsed, it is autonomous on the side of the production control board 12 without using the production control command from the main board 11. The fixed display pattern can be derived and displayed on the screen to determine the variable display result. After performing such effect control, the value of the effect process flag is updated to “3”.

  The variable display stop process in step S173 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “3”. In the variable display stop process, the jackpot gaming state starts based on the variable display result notified by the variable display result notification command, the determination result of whether or not the jackpot start designation command transmitted from the main board 11 is received, and the like. The process which determines whether it is performed is included. When the variable display result corresponds to “big hit” and the big hit gaming state is started, the value of the production process flag is updated to “4”, while the variable display result corresponds to “lost”. If the big hit gaming state is not started, the effect process flag is cleared and its value is initialized to “0”.

  The jackpot display process of step S174 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “4”. This jackpot display process includes a process for executing a jackpot notification effect (fanfare effect) for notifying the start of the jackpot gaming state based on the reception of the jackpot start designation command transmitted from the main board 11 or the like. Yes. When the execution of the big hit notification effect ends, the value of the effect process flag is updated to “5”.

  The big hit effect process in step S175 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “5”. In the jackpot effect processing, the effect control CPU 120 sets, for example, an effect control pattern corresponding to the effect contents in the jackpot effect that is executed when the game is in the jackpot game state, and displays an effect image based on the set contents. Displaying on the screen of the display device 5, outputting sound and sound effects from the speakers 8 </ b> L and 8 </ b> R by outputting commands (sound effect signals) to the sound control board 13, and commands (lighting signals) to the lamp control board 14 ) To turn on / off / flash the light-emitting members such as the game effect lamp 9 and the decoration LED, and perform other effect control, thereby enabling the effect during the big hit corresponding to the big hit game state to be executed. In the big hit effect processing, for example, the value of the presentation process flag is updated to “6” in response to receiving a big hit end designation command transmitted from the main board 11.

  The big hit end effect process in step S176 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “6”. In this jackpot end effect process, the effect control CPU 120 sets, for example, an effect control pattern corresponding to the effect content in the jackpot end effect (ending effect) executed when the jackpot game state ends, and the setting contents The effect image based on the image display device 5 is displayed on the screen, the sound (sound effect signal) is output to the sound control board 13, the sound and sound effects are output from the speakers 8L and 8R, and the lamp control board 14 is output. A jackpot end effect corresponding to the end of the jackpot gaming state by turning on / off / flashing light-emitting members such as the game effect lamp 9 and decoration LED by outputting a command (electric decoration signal), and performing other effect controls Make it executable. Thereafter, the effect process flag is cleared and its value is initialized to “0”.

  FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the variable display start setting process executed in step S171 of FIG. In the variable display start setting process shown in FIG. 7, the effect control CPU 120 first determines a final stop symbol or the like to be a finalized symbol as a variable symbol display result (step S401). As the processing of step S401, the CPU 120 for effect control is based on variable display contents such as the variation pattern indicated by the variation pattern designation command transmitted from the main board 11 and the variable display result indicated by the variable display result notification command. To determine the final stop symbol. As an example, the variable display contents according to the combination of the fluctuation pattern and variable display result include “non-reach (loss)”, “reach (loss)”, “non-probability change (big hit)”, and “probability change (big hit)”. is there.

  When the variable display content is “non-reach (losing)”, the variable display state of the decorative symbol is not changed to the reach state, the fixed decorative symbol of the non-reach combination is stopped and displayed, and the variable display result is “lost”. " When the variable display content is “reach (losing)”, after the variable display state of the decorative symbol becomes the reach state, the fixed decorative symbol of the reach lose combination is stopped and displayed, and the variable display result becomes “losing”. . When the variable display content is “non-probable change (big hit)”, the variable display result is “big hit”, and the gaming state after the end of the big hit gaming state is the short-time state. When the variable display content is “probable change (big hit)”, the variable display result is “big win”, and the gaming state after the big hit gaming state is changed to the probable state.

  When the variable display content is “non-reach (losing)”, the production control CPU 120 uses the “left” and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5R to display different (unmatched) decorative symbols as the final stop symbols. To decide. The effect control CPU 120 extracts numerical data indicating a random number value for determining the left determined symbol updated by an effect random counter or the like provided in a predetermined area (such as an effect control counter setting unit) of the random number circuit 124 or the RAM 122. Referring to the left determined symbol determination table stored and prepared in advance in the ROM 121, the left that is stopped and displayed in the “left” decorative symbol display area 5L in the display area of the image display device 5 among the determined decorative symbols. Determine the final decorative pattern. Next, numerical value data indicating a random number value for determining the right determined symbol updated by the random number circuit 124 or the effect random counter is extracted, and the right determined symbol determining table prepared in advance stored in the ROM 121 is referred to. For example, the right determined decorative symbol to be stopped and displayed in the “right” decorative symbol display area 5R in the display area of the image display device 5 is determined. At this time, the symbol number of the right determined decorative symbol may be determined so as to be different from the symbol number of the left determined decorative symbol by setting in the right determined symbol determining table or the like. Subsequently, the numerical data indicating the random number value for determining the medium fixed symbol updated by the random number circuit 124 or the production random counter is extracted, and the medium fixed symbol determination table prepared in advance stored in the ROM 121 is referred to. From the determined decorative symbols, the medium fixed decorative symbol that is stopped and displayed in the “medium” decorative symbol display area 5C in the display area of the image display device 5 is determined.

  When the variable display content is “reach”, the effect control CPU 120 displays the same (matching) decorative symbols in the “left” and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L and 5R as the final stop symbols. To decide. The effect control CPU 120 extracts numerical data indicating random values for determining the left and right determined symbols that are updated by the random number circuit 124 or the effect random counter, and stores the left and right determined symbol determination table that is stored in advance in the ROM 121 and prepared. By referring to the decorative symbols, the decorative symbols having the same symbol number that are stopped and displayed in the “left” and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L and 5R in the display area of the image display device 5 are displayed. decide. Further, numerical data indicating a random number value for determining a medium fixed symbol updated by the random number circuit 124 or a random counter for production is extracted, and a medium fixed symbol determination table stored and prepared in advance in the ROM 121 is referred to. As a result, among the determined decorative symbols, the medium fixed decorative symbol that is stopped and displayed in the “medium” decorative symbol display area 5C in the display area of the image display device 5 is determined. Here, for example, when the confirmed decorative symbol is a jackpot combination, such as when the symbol number of the middle confirmed decorative symbol is the same as the symbol number of the left confirmed decorative symbol and the right confirmed decorative symbol, an arbitrary value (For example, “1”) may be added to or subtracted from the symbol number of the medium-decorated decorative symbol so that the finalized decorative symbol is not the jackpot combination but the reach combination. Alternatively, when determining the medium-decorated decorative symbol, the difference (design difference) between the symbol number of the left confirmed decorative symbol and the right confirmed decorative symbol may be determined, and the medium-decorated decorative symbol corresponding to the symbol difference may be set. .

  When the variable display content is “non-probability change (big hit)” or “probability change (big hit)”, the effect control CPU 120 displays the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R. The same (matching) decorative symbol is determined as the final stop symbol. The effect control CPU 120 extracts numerical data indicating a random value for determining the jackpot determined symbol updated by the random number circuit 124 or the effect random counter. Subsequently, by referring to the jackpot determined symbol determination table stored and prepared in advance in the ROM 121, the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L in the display area of the image display device 5 are provided. A decorative symbol having the same symbol number that is stopped and displayed along with 5C and 5R is determined. At this time, depending on whether the variable display content is “non-probability change (big hit)” or “probability change (big hit)”, whether or not the promotion effect during the big hit is executed, etc. It is only necessary to determine which one of the design symbol to be displayed and the probability variation symbol (for example, a design symbol that represents an odd number) is the final design symbol. In the jackpot promotion promotion, the combination of decorative symbols (non-probable variation jackpot combination) that reminds the user of the big hit but does not recall the probable state in the image display device 5 is temporarily stopped and displayed in the big hit gaming state or the big hit gaming state. This is an effect of notifying whether or not the state is surely changed at the end.

  As a specific example, when the variable display content is “non-probable change (big hit)”, a symbol to be a definite decorative symbol is determined from a plurality of types of normal symbols. Further, when the variable display content is “probability change (big hit)” and it is determined not to execute the jackpot promotion effect, the one that becomes the confirmed decorative design is determined from a plurality of types of probability change designs. On the other hand, when the variable display content is “probable change (big hit)”, when it is decided to execute the promotion effect during the big hit, the one that becomes the confirmed decorative symbol is determined from a plurality of types of normal symbols. Accordingly, it is only necessary to prevent the promotion effect during the big hit from being executed despite the fact that the probability variation symbols are all derived and displayed as the confirmed decorative symbols, so that the player is not distrusted.

  In the process of step S401, when the variable display content is “non-probability change (big hit)” or “probability change (big hit)”, it is determined whether or not to execute the probability change promotion effect such as the re-lottery effect or the jackpot promotion effect. May be. In the redrawing effect, once the decorative symbol of the non-probable variable big hit combination consisting of the same normal symbol is displayed during variable display of the decorative symbol, it is once difficult to recognize or impossible to recognize that it is controlled to the probabilistic state, It is possible to notify that the control is changed to the probability variation state by variably displaying (revariing) the decoration symbol again and stopping and displaying the decorative symbol of the probability variation big hit combination composed of the same probability variation symbol. Note that there is a case in which the control of the probability variation state is not notified when the decoration symbol of the non-probable variation big hit combination is stopped and displayed after the decoration symbol is re-variable in the re-lottery effect. If it is determined in step S401 that the re-lottery effect is to be executed, a combination of decorative symbols to be temporarily stopped and displayed may be determined before the re-lottery effect is executed.

  Following the determination of the final stop symbol and the like in step S401, a notice effect is determined (step S402). In the process of step S402, for example, the presence / absence of the notice effect or the effect mode when the notice effect is executed is determined using the notice effect determination table prepared by storing in the predetermined area of the ROM 121 in advance. Good. In the notice effect determination table, for example, a numerical value (determined value) to be compared with a random number for determining the notice effect may be assigned to the presence / absence of the notice effect or the determination result of the effect mode according to the variable display content. . The effect control CPU 120 refers to the notice effect determination table based on the numerical data indicating the random value for determining the notice effect, which is updated by the random number circuit 124 or the effect random counter. What is necessary is just to determine an aspect.

  Subsequent to the process of step S402, the effect control pattern is determined as one of a plurality of patterns prepared in advance (step S403). For example, the effect control CPU 120 selects one of a plurality of special-figure varying effect control patterns prepared in correspondence with the variation pattern indicated by the variation pattern designation command and sets it as a usage pattern. In addition, the CPU 120 for effect control selects any one of a plurality of prepared notice effect control patterns corresponding to the result of determination of the notice effect by the process of step S402, and sets it as a use pattern.

  FIG. 8A shows a configuration example of the effect control pattern. In the configuration example shown in FIG. 8A, the effect control pattern is derived from process data including, for example, an effect control process timer determination value, display control data, sound control data, lamp control data, operation detection control data, an end code, and the like. It is configured. The effect control process timer determination value is a value (determination value) to be compared with an effect control process timer value that is a stored value of an effect control process timer provided in a predetermined area (such as an effect control timer setting unit) of the RAM 122. The determination value corresponding to the execution time (effect time) of each effect operation is set in advance. In place of the effect control process timer determination value, for example, a predetermined effect control command is received from the main board 11, or a predetermined process is executed as a process for controlling the effect operation in the effect control CPU 120. The data indicating the switching timing of effect control or the like may be set corresponding to predetermined control content or processing content.

  The display control data includes data indicating the display mode of the effect image in the display area of the image display device 5, such as data indicating the variation mode of each decorative pattern during variable display of the decorative pattern. That is, the display control data is data that designates the display operation of the effect image in the display area of the image display device 5. The voice control data includes data indicating the voice output mode from the speakers 8L and 8R, such as data indicating the output mode of sound effects in conjunction with the variable display operation of the decorative symbol during variable display of the decorative symbol, for example. Yes. That is, the audio control data is data that designates an audio output operation from the speakers 8L and 8R. The lamp control data includes data indicating the lighting operation mode of the light emitting member such as the game effect lamp 9 and the decoration LED. That is, the lamp control data is data for designating the lighting operation of the light emitting member.

  The operation detection control data includes, for example, an operation valid period for effectively detecting an instruction operation (tilting operation) for the operation stick of the stick controller 31A and an instruction operation (push-pull operation) for the trigger button, or an instruction operation (for the push button 31B). Data indicating an effect operation mode according to the player's operation action, such as an operation effective period for effectively detecting (pressing operation) and data for specifying the control content of the effect operation when each operation is detected effectively. include.

  Note that these control data do not have to be included in all the effect control patterns, but an effect control pattern including a part of the control data according to the contents of the effect operation by each effect control pattern. There may be. Further, in the plural types of process data included in the effect control pattern, the types of control data constituting each process data may be different according to the contents of the effect operation executed at each timing. That is, there may be process data configured to include all of the display control data, sound control data, lamp control data, and operation detection control data, or process data configured to include a part of these. Furthermore, other various control data such as, for example, production model control data indicating an operation mode in the movable member included in the production model may be included.

  FIG. 8B shows various effect operations executed according to the contents of the effect control pattern. The production control CPU 120 determines the control content of the production operation according to various control data included in the production control pattern. For example, when the effect control process timer value matches one of the effect control process timer determination values, the decorative design is displayed in a manner specified by the display control data associated with the effect control process timer determination value, and the character Control is performed to display an effect image such as an image or a background image in the display area of the image display device 5. In addition, control is performed to output sound from the speakers 8L and 8R in a manner specified by the sound control data, and control is performed to flash a light emitter such as the game effect lamp 9 in a manner specified by the lamp control data. Control is performed to determine the content of the effect by accepting an operation on the trigger button, the operating rod or the push button 31B of the stick controller 31A in the operation valid period specified by the detection control data. Note that dummy data (data not specifying control) may be set as data corresponding to a production component that does not become a control target even though it corresponds to the production control process timer determination value.

  The effect control CPU 120 sets the effect control pattern based on the variation pattern indicated in the variation pattern designation command, for example, when variable display of decorative symbols is started. Here, when setting the effect control pattern, the pattern data constituting the corresponding effect control pattern may be read from the ROM 121 and temporarily stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 122, or the corresponding effect control pattern is configured. The storage address of the pattern data in the ROM 121 may be temporarily stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 122, and the reading position of the storage data in the ROM 121 may be designated. After that, every time the production control process timer value is updated, it is determined whether or not it matches any of the production control process timer judgment values. If they match, the production operation according to the corresponding various control data Control. Thus, the effect control CPU 120 performs the effect devices (image display device 5, speakers 8L and 8R, game effect lamps) according to the contents of process data # 1 to process data #n (n is an arbitrary integer) included in the effect control pattern. The control of the light emitting member such as 9) proceeds. In each process data # 1 to process data #n, display control data # 1 to display control data #n and voice control data # 1 to voice control associated with production control process timer determination values # 1 to #n are provided. Data #n, lamp control data # 1 to lamp control data #n, and operation detection control data # 1 to operation detection control data #n indicate the control content of the rendering operation in the rendering device and specify the execution of the rendering control. Control execution data # 1 to production control execution data #n are configured.

  A command according to the effect control pattern set in this way is output from the effect control CPU 120 to the display control unit 123, the sound control board 13, and the like. In the display control unit 123 that receives a command from the effect control CPU 120, for example, the VDP 130 reads image data (component image data) indicated by the command from the image data memory 131. The read component image data is used to create a temporary image by being written to the temporary storage area of the temporary image buffer 132A, or is used to draw a display image by being written to the output image area of the frame buffer 132B. Or The VDP 130 sets the temporary image stored in the temporary image buffer 132A as one display target image, like the component image read from the image data memory 131, while setting attributes such as display magnification and display coordinates, and the frame buffer. The image can be drawn in the 132B output image area. Thus, a display image for one screen is generated in the frame buffer 132B in synchronization with a predetermined period such as a frame period of the image display device 5, for example. When the voice control board 13 receives the command from the effect control CPU 120, for example, the voice synthesis IC reads the voice data indicated by the command from the voice data ROM and temporarily stores it in the voice RAM or the like.

  After performing the process of step S403 shown in FIG. 7, the CPU 120 for effect control is provided in a predetermined area (such as an effect control timer setting unit) of the RAM 122 corresponding to the change pattern specified by the change pattern specifying command, for example. The initial value of the production control process timer is set (step S404). And the setting for starting the fluctuation | variation of the decoration design etc. in the image display apparatus 5 is performed (step S405). At this time, for example, the display control command specified by the display control data included in the effect control pattern determined as the use pattern in step S404 is output to the VDP 130 of the display control unit 123, and the like. The variation of the decorative symbols may be started in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R provided in the display area.

  Following the process of step S405, in response to the start of variable display of decorative symbols, settings are made to update the hold memory display in the start winning memory display area 5H (step S406). For example, the display part corresponding to the hold number “1” in the start winning memory display area 5H may be deleted and the entire display part may be moved to the left one by one. Thereafter, the value of the effect process flag is updated to “2”, which is a value corresponding to the effect process during variable display (step S407), and the variable display start setting process ends.

  FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of the variable display effect process executed in step S172 of FIG. In the effect processing during variable display shown in FIG. 9, the effect control CPU 120 first determines whether or not the variable display time corresponding to the variation pattern has elapsed based on, for example, an effect control process timer value (step S451). ). As an example, in the process of step S451, when the production control process timer value is updated (for example, 1 is subtracted) and an end code is read from the production control pattern corresponding to the updated production control process timer value, etc. It may be determined that the variable display time has elapsed.

  If the variable display time has not elapsed in step S451 (step S451; No), it is determined whether it is the execution period of various effects (step S452). The execution period of various effects may be determined in advance in the effect control pattern selected in the process of step S403 shown in FIG. When it is not the execution period of various effects (step S452; No), the variable display effect process is terminated. When it is the execution period of various effects (step S452; Yes), the effect control process is executed (step S453), and then the variable display effect process is terminated.

  If the variable display time has elapsed in step S451 (step S451; Yes), it is determined whether or not a symbol confirmation command transmitted from the main board 11 has been received (step S454). At this time, if there is no reception of the symbol confirmation command (step S454; No), the variable display effect processing is terminated and awaits. If the predetermined time has passed without receiving the symbol confirmation command after the variable display time has elapsed, predetermined error processing is executed in response to the failure to receive the symbol confirmation command normally. You may make it do.

  When a symbol confirmation command is received in step S454 (step S454; Yes), for example, display is performed in a variable symbol display such as transmitting a predetermined display control command to the VDP 130 of the display control unit 123. A control for deriving and displaying the final stop symbol (definite decorative symbol) as a result is performed (step S455). In addition, a predetermined time is set as a waiting time for receiving the hit start designation command (step S456). Then, the value of the effect process flag is updated to “3” which is a value corresponding to the variable display stop process (step S457), and then the variable display effect process is ended.

  In the effect control process of step S453 shown in FIG. 9, the effect control process timer value is changed from the effect control pattern (for example, the special figure change effect control pattern, the notice effect control pattern, etc.) determined in the process of step S403 shown in FIG. Control for executing rendering operations by various rendering devices is performed using the process data read on the basis of the process data. For example, the effect control CPU 120 determines whether or not the effect control process timer has timed out, and switches the effect control execution data in the process data when time-out occurs. That is, in the process data # 1 to process data #n as shown in FIG. 8A, display control of the image display device 5 is performed based on the next set display control data. Further, in the process data # 1 to process data #n, audio output control of the speakers 8L and 8R is performed based on the audio control data set next. Further, in the process data # 1 to process data #n, lighting control of the game effect lamp 9 and the decoration LED is performed based on the next set lamp control data. In addition, in the process data # 1 to process data #n, detection control of instruction operation by the stick controller 31A or the push button 31B is performed based on the operation detection control data set next.

  The effect control CPU 120 outputs various display control commands to the VDP 130 of the display control unit 123 in order to perform display control of the image display device 5. If the image data memory 131 of the display control unit 123 stores, in advance, a plurality of types of component image data corresponding to a plurality of types of component images, for example, table data constituting a component image table as shown in FIG. Good. In the component image table shown in FIG. 10, a component image ID serving as an identification number is assigned to each of a plurality of types of component images, and is associated with the storage position (start address) and image size of the component image in the image data memory 131. Yes. The production control CPU 120 designates a component image ID by a display control command, creates a temporary image by arranging the component images, generates a display image by drawing one or both of the temporary image and the component image, and the like. May be indicated to the VDP 130.

  The display control data of the effect control pattern only needs to include image readout control data as shown in FIG. At the head of the image read control data, a read image number indicating the number of component images read from the image data memory 131 is set. In the image read control data, the group of read control information including image designation information, attribute information, and provisional image target flag information is set to have the same number of groups as the number of read images. The image designation information is information for designating a component image ID corresponding to a component image stored in the image data memory 131 or a temporary image stored in the temporary image buffer 132A as information indicating a read target image. The attribute information is information for setting an attribute that is a drawing parameter. The temporary image target flag information is information indicating whether or not the component image read from the image data memory 131 is to be placed as a placement target image in the temporary storage area of the temporary image buffer 132A. In this embodiment, when the temporary image target flag is turned on by the temporary image target flag information, the component image read from the image data memory 131 is set as the placement target image and placed in the temporary storage area of the temporary image buffer 132A. To do. On the other hand, when the component image read from the image data memory 131 is drawn in the output image area of the frame buffer 132B without being placed in the temporary storage area of the temporary image buffer 132A, the temporary image read from the temporary image buffer 132A is used as the frame buffer. When drawing in the output image area 132B, the temporary image target flag is set to the OFF state by the temporary image target flag information.

  The effect control CPU 120 reads data corresponding to the value of the reading process counter (reading process count value) in the image reading control data. Then, every time the reading process count value is updated, the data set next in the image reading control data is sequentially read. Based on the data read in this way, a display control command is generated and output to the VDP 130 of the display control unit 123.

  FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the process executed in step S453 of FIG. 9 as the effect control process by the effect control CPU 120. In the effect control process shown in FIG. 12, for example, the type of effect control execution data read from the effect control pattern is specified based on the effect control process timer value (step S501). Then, it is determined whether or not the specified read data is display control data (step S502).

  If it is determined in step S502 that it is display control data (step S502; Yes), image readout control data included in the display control data is acquired (step S503). In the processing of step S503, the CPU 120 for effect control, for example, reads the storage position (start address) of the image read control data in the ROM 121 in a predetermined area (for example, the effect control pointer setting unit) of the RAM 122 serving as a work area. Set to pointer. At this time, a read processing counter provided in a predetermined area (for example, an effect control counter setting unit) of the RAM 122 is initialized, and the count value is set to “0” (step S504). Also, the number of read completions, which is a variable indicating the number of images that have been read, is initialized to “0” (step S505). Then, in correspondence with the reading process count value being “0”, the number of read images read from the image reading control data is set (step S506).

  Thereafter, the read processing count value is updated so as to be incremented by 1 (step S507). Subsequently, image designation information is acquired as a reading result of the image reading control data corresponding to the reading processing count value updated in step S507 (step S508). Further, the effect control CPU 120 updates the reading process count value to be incremented by 1 (step S509), and acquires attribute information as a reading result of the image reading control data corresponding to the updated count value (step S510). ). Further, the effect control CPU 120 updates the reading process count value to be incremented by 1 (step S511), and acquires temporary image object flag information as a reading result of the image reading control data corresponding to the updated count value. (Step S512).

  Based on the image designation information, attribute information, and provisional image object flag information thus specified, the effect control CPU 120 creates an image read command and outputs it to the VDP 130 of the display control unit 123 (step S513). The image read command is a display control command for instructing to read the corresponding image data using a component image stored in the image data memory 131 or a temporary image stored in the temporary storage area of the temporary image buffer 132A as a read target. It is. Which of the component image and the temporary image is to be read is set by the image designation information acquired in step S508. The component image data read from the image data memory 131 is written in the temporary storage area of the temporary image buffer 132A or the output image area of the frame buffer 132B. Whether to write to the temporary image buffer 132A or the frame buffer 132B is set by the temporary image target flag information acquired in the process of step S512. When the temporary image target flag is set to the ON state, the temporary image target flag is written to the temporary image buffer 132A, whereas when the temporary image target flag is set to the OFF state, the temporary image target flag information is written to the frame buffer 132B. . When a temporary image is read from the temporary image buffer 132A, enlargement or reduction according to the display magnification and setting of display coordinates are performed based on the attribute information acquired in step S510, and output from the frame buffer 132B. Rendered in the image area.

  The image reading command is used to notify the VDP 130 of, for example, the designation of the component image ID attached to the component image to be read or the temporary image temporarily stored in the temporary image buffer 132A, the writing position of the image data, and the like. It only has to contain data. In order to designate a component image ID or a temporary image, the image designation information acquired in step S508 may be included in the image readout command. When designating the writing position of the image data, it is designated whether to write to the temporary storage area of the temporary image buffer 132A or the output image area of the frame buffer 132, or to write in the temporary storage area or the output image area. In order to designate an address (storage address), the attribute information or the temporary image object flag information acquired in the process of step S512 may be included in the image read command.

  After executing the process of step S513, the number of read completion is updated to be incremented by 1 (step S514). Then, it is determined whether or not the updated read completion number has reached the read image number set based on the image read control data (step S515). At this time, if the number of read images has not been reached (step S515; No), the process returns to step S507 and reading of the image data is continued.

  When it is determined in step S502 that it is not display control data (step S502; No), or when the number of read images is reached in step S515 (step S515; Yes), various types of data are selected according to other control data. After executing the command output process for outputting the command (step S516), the effect control process is terminated.

  As described above, in the effect control process shown in FIG. 12, the process of steps S504 to S515 is executed based on the setting of the image read control data acquired in the process of step S503, and the read position of the image data is set to the image data memory 131. And the temporary image buffer 132A can be selected and designated, and the writing position of the image data can be selected and designated from the temporary image buffer 132A and the frame buffer 132B. Therefore, regardless of whether the image data read position is included in the image data memory 131 or the temporary image buffer 132A, whether the image data write position is included in the temporary image buffer 132A or the frame buffer 132B. Regardless of this, a common process can be executed to instruct creation of a temporary image and generation (drawing) of a display image.

  FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating an example of image data processing executed by the VDP 130 of the display control unit 123. In the image data processing shown in FIG. 13, the VDP 130 determines whether or not there is a V blank interrupt (step S701). The VDP 130 has gradation data corresponding to the display image for one frame read from the display buffer area out of the first buffer area 132B-1 and the second buffer area 132B-2 provided in the frame buffer 132B. Color signal data) is output to the LCD drive circuit 133 and a vertical synchronizing signal is supplied. A V blank interrupt may be generated at the same cycle as the vertical synchronization signal, and for example, a V blank interrupt signal may be output to the effect control CPU 120. Therefore, the V blank interruption occurs at a frame period (for example, 1/60 second) in which an image displayed on the screen of the image display device 5 is updated.

  If there is a V blank interruption in step S701 (step S701; Yes), it is determined whether drawing for one frame has been completed (step S702). At this time, if drawing for one frame has been completed (step S702; Yes), the drawing buffer area and the display buffer area in the frame buffer 132B are switched (step S703). Thus, the first buffer area 132B-1 and the second buffer area 132B-2 provided in the frame buffer 132B are alternately switched between drawing and display in the frame period of the image display device 5.

  When there is no V blank interruption in step S701 (step S701; No), when drawing for one frame is not completed in step S702 (step S702; No), or the processing of step S703 is executed. After that, it is determined whether or not there is an image read command output from the effect control CPU 120 (step S704). If there is an image read command (step S704; Yes), it is determined which of the component image ID and the temporary image is specified based on the image designation information included in the image read command (step S705). ).

  If it is determined in step S705 that the component image ID is designated (step S705; component image ID), the component image is read out from the image data memory 131 with reference to the component image table as shown in FIG. A position (storage position) and the like are set (step S706). On the other hand, if it is determined in step S705 that a temporary image is designated (step S705; temporary image), settings for reading the temporary image stored in the temporary storage area of the temporary image buffer 132A are performed ( Step S707).

  After performing either of the processes in steps S706 and S707, provisional image target flag information is acquired (step S708). Based on the acquisition result in step S708, a write offset address corresponding to the temporary image target flag is set (step S709). For example, when the temporary image target flag is set to the on state, a write offset address corresponding to the head address of the temporary image buffer 132A is set, and the temporary image buffer 132A corresponding to the display coordinates indicated in the attribute information is set. The write address in the temporary storage area may be specified. On the other hand, when the temporary image target flag is set to the off state, the first buffer area 132B-1 and the second buffer area 132B-2 in the frame buffer 132B are set to the start address of the buffer area for drawing. The corresponding write offset address is set, and the write address in the output image area of the frame buffer 132B corresponding to the display coordinates indicated in the attribute information may be designated.

  After executing the processing in step S709, the image data corresponding to the component image or the temporary image is read out and written in the designated write address (step S710). At this time, if the component image data read from the image data memory 131 is compressed, the decompression circuit built in the VDP 130 performs decompression processing, and the decompressed component image is placed in the temporary storage area or output image. Draw in the area. When image data corresponding to a component image (component image data) is written to the temporary image buffer 132A, the display data corresponding to the display coordinates indicated by the attribute information is generated as in the case of generating a display image by drawing in the frame buffer 132B. The part image is arranged at the writing position. In this way, by arranging and synthesizing a plurality of types of component images in the temporary storage area of the temporary image buffer 132A, for example, one frame worth in synchronization with a predetermined period such as the frame period of the image display device 5 A temporary image corresponding to the display screen may be stored. When a plurality of types of component images are arranged in the temporary storage area or rendered in the output image area, a predetermined deformation process may be executed for each component image, or a blending process using two or more types of component images is executed. May be. The presence / absence and contents of the deformation process and the blending process may be set by attribute information included in the image reading control data as shown in FIG. In the image reading control data as shown in FIG. 11, after the provisional image is created, the provisional image stored in the provisional image buffer 132A is read out and rendered in the output image area of the frame buffer 132B. In addition, various pieces of information (image designation information, attribute information, temporary image target flag information) corresponding to the reading process count value may be set in advance. In this way, it is determined whether or not drawing for generating a display image for one frame is completed (step S711). When the drawing is completed (step S711; Yes), the drawing control is notified to the effect control CPU 120 (step S712). If there is no image read command in step S704 (step S704; No), if drawing is not completed in step S711 (step S711; No), or after the processing in step S712 is executed, the processing in step S701 is performed. Return to processing.

  As described above, in the image data processing shown in FIG. 13, one of the processes in steps S706 and S707 is executed according to the determination result of the image designation information in the process in step S705, and the components stored in the image data memory 131 are stored. Any one of the image data and the image data corresponding to the temporary image temporarily stored in the temporary image buffer 132A can be selected and read. Further, in accordance with the setting of the temporary image target flag indicated in the temporary image target flag information acquired in the process of step S708, the writing offset address is set in the process of step S709, and the component image is stored in the temporary image buffer 132A. It can be executed by selecting whether to create a temporary image by arranging or to generate a display image by drawing a component image or a temporary image in the frame buffer 132B. Therefore, regardless of whether the image data read position is included in the image data memory 131 or the temporary image buffer 132A, whether the image data write position is included in the temporary image buffer 132A or the frame buffer 132B. Regardless of this, a common process can be executed to create a temporary image and generate (draw) a display image.

  In response to the display control command output by the effect control CPU 120 executing the effect control process as shown in FIG. 12, the VDP 130 executes the image data process as shown in FIG. Image generation (drawing) is performed. When the component image ID is designated by the image designation information included in the image reading control data as shown in FIG. 11 and the temporary image target flag is set to the OFF state by the temporary image target flag information, the image data memory 131 is used. The read component image can be drawn in the output image area of the frame buffer 132B. When the component image ID is designated by the image designation information and the temporary image target flag information is set to the on state by the temporary image target flag information, the component image read from the image data memory 131 is temporarily stored in the temporary image buffer 132A. A temporary image can be created by arranging in the area. When the temporary image is specified by the image specifying information and the temporary image target flag is set to the OFF state by the temporary image target flag information, the temporary image read from the temporary storage area of the temporary image buffer 132A is output from the frame buffer 132B. You can draw in the image area. Each time the V blank 130 interrupt signal is output from the VDP 130, the effect control CPU 120 outputs a series of commands including an image readout command for generating a display image using a plurality of types of component images and temporary images in a time series. It is also possible to create a display list that defines the image processing procedure described in the above and issue it to the VDP 130. Thus, for example, a temporary image can be created and a display image can be generated (drawn) in synchronization with a predetermined cycle such as the frame cycle of the image display device 5.

  Part or all of the display list is stored in the image data memory 131 in advance, and the effect control CPU 120 designates one of the display lists in accordance with the output of the V blank interrupt signal and displays the display image on the VDP 130. May be generated. For example, among the image reading control data as shown in FIG. 11, one of the data for designating a part image in which the temporary image target flag is set to the on state by the temporary image target flag information and the data for specifying the temporary image by the image designation information. For all or all, a display list for provisional image creation or provisional image drawing is stored in the image data memory 131 in advance, and the VDP 130 creates a provisional image in response to a display control command from the effect control CPU 120. Processing for performing drawing may be executed as a subroutine. In this case, the display list issued by the effect control CPU 120 includes a display control command that is a jump command for acquiring a display list for provisional image creation or provisional image drawing stored in advance in the image data memory 131. Just go out. The VDP 130 is a jump portion in which a display control command serving as a jump command is described in the display list created by the effect control CPU 120, and a display list for temporary image creation or temporary image drawing stored in the image data memory 131. A subroutine based on the above may be acquired, and a part or all of the provisional image creation and drawing may be executed according to the subroutine.

  The temporary image created using the temporary storage area of the temporary image buffer 132A is obtained by arranging a plurality of types of component images read from the image data memory 131, and is used by one photographing apparatus (for example, a television camera). It is different from a single moving image shown by a captured video signal. The order, size, position, etc. for arranging a plurality of types of component images are set by, for example, the image read control data included in the display control data of the effect control pattern, and the effect control process timer value is updated as time elapses. It can be changed accordingly. The temporary image stored in the temporary storage area of the temporary image buffer 132A only needs to be able to execute various deformation processes as one display target image, as with the component image read from the image data memory 131. As an example of such deformation processing, the VDP 130 enlarges or reduces the temporary image at the display magnification indicated in the attribute information, and then draws it in the output image area of the frame buffer 132B.

  FIG. 14A shows a temporary image reduction display setting example as an example of the setting when the temporary image is reduced and displayed. In the setting example shown below, the period for displaying the component image or the temporary image designated by the image designation information is indicated by the number of frames updated and displayed on the screen of the image display device 5 as the “scene display period”. The image display device 5 updates and displays an image for one frame every frame period such as 1/60 seconds. In this example, 60 frames of images are updated and displayed in one second.

  In the setting example shown in FIG. 14A, the display magnification of the temporary image is 1.0 × vertical according to the attribute information included in the image reading control data for 10 seconds from the start of the display of the temporary image to 600 frames. The width is set to 1.0. During this period, initial normal display is performed, and the temporary image read from the temporary image buffer 132A is drawn in the output image area of the frame buffer 132B without being enlarged or reduced.

  In 20 seconds of 1200 frames following the initial normal display, the display magnification of the temporary image is set to 0.9 × 0.9 by the attribute information included in the image reading control data. During this period, the temporary image is reduced and displayed, and the temporary image read from the temporary image buffer 132A is reduced at a display magnification of 0.9 × 0.9 and displayed in the output image area of the frame buffer 132B. Drawn. When the VDP 130 arranges a plurality of types of component images read from the image data memory 131 in the temporary storage area of the temporary image buffer 132A to create a temporary image, the VDP 130 does not enlarge or reduce the respective component images, but the temporary image buffer 132A. When the temporary image read from the temporary storage area is drawn in the output image area of the frame buffer 132B, it may be enlarged or reduced at the display magnification specified by the attribute information. As described above, a temporary image created by arranging a plurality of types of component images is enlarged or reduced at a predetermined magnification, and then drawn in the output image area of the frame buffer 132B. A plurality of types of component images can be enlarged or reduced at once without individually enlarging or reducing the component images, and an increase in the burden of deformation processing for enlarging or reducing part or all of the display image can be prevented. It should be noted that, among the plural types of component images arranged in the temporary storage area of the temporary image buffer 132A, some of the component images are enlarged or reduced at the display magnification specified by the attribute information, and then arranged in the temporary storage area. May be.

  For 5 seconds of 300 frames following the reduced display, the display magnification of the temporary image is set to 1.0 × 1.0 in the vertical direction by the attribute information included in the image reading control data. In this period, the normal display is restored and the temporary image read from the temporary image buffer 132A is drawn in the output image area of the frame buffer 132B without being enlarged or reduced.

  As described above, a plurality of periods may be provided as the scene display period for displaying the temporary image specified by the image specifying information, and the temporary image may be enlarged or reduced at different display magnifications depending on each period. The plurality of periods may include a period in which the temporary image is drawn after being enlarged or reduced at a predetermined magnification and a period in which the temporary image is drawn without being enlarged or reduced.

  When the temporary image is enlarged or reduced, even if the display coordinates specified by the attribute information are the same, the display position of a part of the temporary image may change before and after the enlargement or reduction. For example, when the display coordinates designated by the attribute information indicate the display position of the upper left part of the temporary image, when the temporary image is enlarged, the display position of the pixel included in the lower part of the temporary image is lower in the display area of the image display device 5. The display position of the pixel included in the right part of the temporary image changes to the right in the display area of the image display device 5, while the pixel included in the lower part of the temporary image is reduced when the temporary image is reduced. The display position of the image display device 5 changes upward in the display area of the image display device 5, and the display position of the pixel included in the right part of the temporary image changes in the left direction of the display area of the image display device 5. In these cases, if attention is paid to some of the pixels in the temporary image, it seems that these pixels are moved and displayed. However, such a change in the display position is caused by the deformation process of the temporary image, not by moving and displaying the temporary image. Accordingly, when the deformation process of the temporary image is performed, the temporary image may not be moved and displayed as long as the display position is the same (no change) for at least some of the pixels in the temporary image. Alternatively, even if at least some of the pixels have the same display position, the temporary image is moved and displayed when the display position of a predetermined reference pixel, such as the display coordinates specified by the attribute information, changes. It may be.

  In the setting example shown in FIG. 14A, the temporary image is reduced and displayed by setting the display magnification of the temporary image to 0.9 × 0.9. In this way, the temporary image may be enlarged or reduced at the same display magnification in the vertical direction and the horizontal direction and drawn in the output image area of the frame buffer 132B. Alternatively, the display magnification of the temporary image may be set to different magnifications in the vertical direction and the horizontal direction. For example, among the display magnifications of the temporary image, the vertical display magnification is maintained at the normal magnification of 1.0, while the horizontal display magnification is gradually reduced from the normal magnification of 1.0 to finally become 0. By setting the value to be 0.0, a display effect may be performed such that the display of the temporary image is crushed in the horizontal direction and finally deleted. The display magnification may be changed so that the display of the temporary image is crushed in the vertical direction and finally erased by switching the display magnifications in the vertical direction and the horizontal direction. In addition, by increasing the vertical or horizontal display magnification stepwise from 0.0 and finally setting the normal magnification to 1.0, the display of the temporary image is displayed in the vertical or horizontal direction. A display effect that gradually appears from the crushed state may be performed. For the first temporary image, the vertical or horizontal display magnification is gradually reduced from the normal magnification to 0.0, and then the second image different from the first temporary image is displayed in the vertical or horizontal direction. By gradually increasing the display magnification from 0.0 to the normal magnification, the display effect is such that the temporary image is rotated in the vertical direction or the horizontal direction and switched from the first temporary image to the second temporary image. It may be performed.

  The temporary image stored in the temporary storage area of the temporary image buffer 132A only needs to be able to change the display coordinates as one display target image, like the component image read from the image data memory 131. As an example of such processing for changing the display coordinates, the VDP 130 moves the display position of the temporary image according to a change with time of the display coordinates indicated in the attribute information.

  FIG. 14B shows a temporary image swing display setting example as an example of the setting when the temporary image is swing displayed. In the setting example shown in FIG. 14B, the display coordinates of the temporary image are set to change in the horizontal direction (X-axis direction) according to a plurality of scene display periods. For example, when the display coordinate is (0, 0) as the reference position, when the display coordinate specified by the attribute information is (x1, 0) or (x2, 0), the temporary image is moved and displayed. Then, the drawing position of the temporary image read from the temporary image buffer 132A is changed by x1 dots or x2 dots to the right of the reference position and drawn in the output image area of the frame buffer 132B. On the other hand, when the display coordinates specified by the attribute information are (−x1, 0) or (−x2, 0), the temporary image is moved and displayed, and the temporary image read from the temporary image buffer 132A is displayed. The drawing position is changed by x1 dots or x2 dots to the left of the reference position and drawn in the output image area of the frame buffer 132B.

  When the VDP 130 arranges a plurality of types of component images read from the image data memory 131 in the temporary storage area of the temporary image buffer 132A to create a temporary image, the VDP 130 does not change the arrangement position of each component image. What is necessary is just to change to the display coordinate designated by attribute information, when drawing the temporary image read from the temporary storage area of 132A to the output image area of the frame buffer 132B. As described above, the drawing position of the temporary image created by arranging a plurality of types of component images is changed with time and drawn in the output image area of the frame buffer 132B. Without changing the drawing position of individual component images, the drawing positions can be changed at once, and an increase in the burden of moving processing for changing the drawing position of a part or all of the display image can be prevented. . Note that, among the plural types of component images arranged in the temporary storage area of the temporary image buffer 132A, the arrangement position of some of the component images is changed according to the display coordinates specified by the attribute information, and the temporary storage area You may arrange in.

  In the setting example shown in FIG. 14B, the drawing position of the temporary image is gradually moved to the right from the reference position to the maximum x2 dots with time, and then returned to the reference position. The image is changed so as to return to the reference position after being moved stepwise to the maximum x2 dots leftward and drawn in the output image area of the frame buffer 132B. As described above, the drawing position of the temporary image may be alternately changed at a predetermined swing period by the same opposing change amount in a predetermined forward direction and reverse direction such as the right direction and the left direction. . Thereby, it is possible to execute a display effect that swings the temporary image. The forward direction and the reverse direction are not limited to those that are changed by the same opposing change amount, and one of the forward direction and the reverse direction may be changed by a larger deflection change amount than the other. Good. Or it is not limited to what is changed to a forward direction and a reverse direction, You may change so that the locus | trajectory of a drawing position may become predetermined circular shape, spiral shape, circular arc shape, and other arbitrary shapes. The drawing position of the temporary image is not limited to being changed stepwise between the forward direction and the reverse direction with time, but may be changed alternately by one opposing change amount. It is only necessary to set a part or all of the direction, trajectory, period, change amount (amplitude, etc.) of the temporary image to be swung according to the designation of display coordinates by the attribute information. Depending on a plurality of types of effect execution periods including a plurality of scene display periods, a part or all of the direction, trajectory, period, change amount (amplitude, etc.) of the temporary image may be varied. When the component image read from the image data memory 131 is drawn in the output image area of the frame buffer 132B without being placed in the temporary storage area of the temporary image buffer 132A, or after being placed in the temporary storage area of the temporary image buffer 132A. Depending on the case of drawing in the output image area of the frame buffer 132B, part or all of the direction, trajectory, period, and change amount (amplitude, etc.) of swinging the image may be varied.

  In the setting example shown in FIG. 14B, the scene display period in which the display coordinates of the temporary image are the reference position of (0, 0) is set as one frame period, and the forward direction and the reverse direction such as the right direction and the left direction are The scene display period for changing the drawing position is a period of a plurality of frames (2 frames or 4 frames). As described above, the number of frames for the scene display period may be varied according to the display coordinates of the temporary image. Alternatively, the drawing position of the temporary image may be changed in each frame by setting the scene display period as one frame period regardless of the display coordinates of the temporary image. Alternatively, the drawing position of the temporary image may be changed in units of a plurality of frames by setting the scene display period as a period of a plurality of frames regardless of the display coordinates of the temporary image.

  The component image read from the image data memory 131 is displayed in the frame buffer 132B according to the state (off state or on state) of the temporary image creation flag set by the temporary image creation target flag information included in the image read control data. May be directly drawn in the output image area, or may be arranged in the temporary storage area of the temporary image buffer 132A and used to create a temporary image. The setting as to whether or not to place the component image in the temporary storage area of the temporary image buffer 132A may vary depending on the type of the component image (such as notification content by display). Which type of component image is directly drawn in the output image area of the frame buffer 132B may be set in advance by image readout control data included in the display control data of the effect control pattern. For example, a part image corresponding to the fourth symbol displayed in the fourth symbol display areas 5I and 5J provided in the display area of the image display device 5 and the variable display hold number (displayed in the hold number display area 5K ( The part image corresponding to the special figure holding storage number) may be directly drawn in the output image area of the frame buffer 132B without being placed in the temporary storage area of the temporary image buffer 132A.

  FIG. 15A shows a fourth symbol drawing setting example as an example of a setting when a component image of the fourth symbol is drawn. As shown in FIG. 10, as a part image corresponding to the fourth symbol, a fourth symbol A having a component image ID BG0101, a fourth symbol B having BG0102, a fourth symbol C having BG0103, and the like are prepared in advance. Yes. In the setting example shown in FIG. 15A, every time a 30 frame scene display period (corresponding to 0.5 seconds) elapses, the fourth pattern A whose component image ID is BG0101 and the component image ID is BG0102. The 4th symbol B is displayed in a variable manner by alternately drawing a 4th symbol B. In this case, the temporary image target flag is set to the off state for any of the component images corresponding to the fourth symbol. Therefore, in the process of step S709 shown in FIG. 13, the writing position of the component image data is included in the frame buffer 132B, and the component image read from the image data memory 131 is temporarily stored in the temporary image buffer 132A. The image is drawn in the output image area of the frame buffer 132B without being arranged in the area.

  Of the display symbol component images variably displayed in synchronization with the special symbol game, the decorative symbol components variably displayed in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R The image may be arranged in the temporary storage area of the temporary image buffer 132A and used for creating the temporary image. In the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R, for example, the decorative symbol is enlarged or reduced, or the decorative symbol type or display color is changed. Therefore, as with the effect images corresponding to various display effects, it is only necessary to generate a display image by drawing after creating a temporary image. On the other hand, in the 4th symbol display areas 5I and 5J, a variety of display like a decorative symbol is not executed, and the player can recognize the variable display state, so that the player can recognize the state of variable display. Thus, it is only necessary to execute a status display in which the display mode changes periodically. Therefore, among the component images of the display symbols that are variably displayed, the component images of the fourth symbol used for the status display indicating the variable display state in the fourth symbol display areas 5I and 5J are temporarily stored in the temporary image buffer 132A. The image is drawn in the output image area of the frame buffer 132B without being arranged in the storage area. As described above, a component image that is not arranged in the temporary storage area of the temporary image buffer 132A and is directly drawn in the output image area of the frame buffer 132B can be subjected to the deformation process even when the temporary image is deformed or moved. And can be displayed without being affected by movement processing. Thereby, the visibility of the state display using the 4th symbol in the 4th symbol display areas 5I and 5J is improved, and the player can surely recognize the state of the variable display.

  FIG. 15B shows a drawing setting example for holding display as an example of setting when drawing a component image for holding display. As shown in FIG. 10, as the component images corresponding to the numeric hold display indicating the variable display hold number in the hold number display area 5 </ b> K, the hold display (numerals) A and BG0112 whose component image ID is BG0111 Display (number) B, hold display (number) C as BG0113, and the like are prepared in advance. In the setting example shown in FIG. 15B, the display of the component image corresponding to the hold display is updated each time a 6-frame scene display period (corresponding to 0.1 second) elapses. More specifically, until the six-frame scene display period elapses twice, a part image whose part image ID is BG0111 is drawn to indicate that the variable display hold number is “0”. Display is performed. After that, for example, in response to the occurrence of the start winning that the game ball passes through the first start winning opening, the component image whose component image ID is BG0112 is drawn at the scene display time of 6 frames, thereby being variably displayed. A hold display indicating that the number of hold of “1” is “1” is performed. Further, as the variable display of the special symbol, the decorative symbol, and the fourth symbol is started in response to the start winning, the variable display hold number becomes “0”, and the component image ID is BG0111 accordingly. The part image is drawn, and the hold display indicating that the variable display hold number is “0” is performed. In this case, the temporary image target flag is set to the off state for all the component images corresponding to the number hold display. Therefore, in the process of step S709 shown in FIG. 13, the writing position of the component image data is included in the frame buffer 132B, and the component image read from the image data memory 131 is temporarily stored in the temporary image buffer 132A. The image is drawn in the output image area of the frame buffer 132B without being arranged in the area.

  Among the part images displayed on hold, the part images for displaying the number of effect images corresponding to the number of variable displays held in the start winning memory display area 5H are arranged in the temporary storage area of the temporary image buffer 132A. You may make it use for preparation of a temporary image. In the start winning memory display area 5H, for example, by changing one or a plurality of display parts to a display mode different from the display mode at the normal time, the possibility of becoming a “hit” in the variable display to be notified is notified. The pre-reading notice effect of “hold display” may be executed. In the start winning memory display area 5H, display of an effect image corresponding to such a pre-reading notice effect is performed, so that, similar to the effect images corresponding to various display effects, a temporary image is created and then a display image by drawing. It suffices if generation of is performed. On the other hand, in the hold number display area 5K, a display effect such as a pre-reading notice effect is not executed, and a certain display state may be maintained so that the player can surely recognize the hold number of variable display. Therefore, among the part images displayed on hold, the part image corresponding to the number on-hold display of the number indicating the number of hold on the variable display in the hold number display area 5K is not arranged in the temporary storage area of the temporary image buffer 132A. Drawing is performed in the output image area of the buffer 132B. Thereby, the visibility of the hold display in the hold number display pattern area 5K is enhanced, and the player can surely recognize the hold number of the variable display.

  In addition to drawing the part image of the fourth pattern or the part image of the hold display, there may be a case where a predetermined part image is directly drawn in the output image area of the frame buffer 132B. For example, an error-displayed part image for notifying the occurrence of an abnormality in the pachinko gaming machine 1 may be directly drawn in the output image area of the frame buffer 132B without being placed in the temporary storage area of the temporary image buffer 132A. The part image of the operation instruction display for instructing a predetermined instruction operation by the operation means such as the stick controller 31A and the push button 31B is not arranged in the temporary storage area of the temporary image buffer 132A, but is placed in the output image area of the frame buffer 132B. You may draw directly. A part image of a firing instruction display for instructing a player to drive a game ball toward a predetermined game area (for example, a right-handed instruction display for instructing a game ball to be fired toward the right game area) is a temporary image. The image may be drawn directly in the output image area of the frame buffer 132B without being placed in the temporary storage area of the buffer 132A. Further, for example, the decorative image part images variably displayed in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R in the image display device 5 are temporarily stored in the temporary image buffer 132A. The image may be drawn directly in the output image area of the frame buffer 132B without being arranged.

  From the start of the variable display of decorative symbols to the time when the display result is derived, multiple types of notice effects are executed to warn of the possibility that the variable display result will be a “hit” and become a big hit gaming state (big hit reliability) In this case, the setting as to whether or not to arrange the corresponding component image in the temporary storage area of the temporary image buffer 132A may be made different depending on the type of the notice effect and the effect mode. For example, as the notice effect, a part or all of the character display notice, the cut-in display notice, and the step-up display notice are executed in combination. Character display advance notice displays an effect image showing a predetermined character during variable display of decorative symbols, and predicts the possibility that the variable display result will be a “hit” according to the type and display mode of the displayed character. To do. The cut-in display notice shows the possibility that the predetermined display image will be cut-in display during the variable display of the decorative symbol, and the variable display result will be “big hit” depending on the type and display mode of the displayed display image. Notice. The step-up display advance notice displays a predetermined character or other effect image in a predetermined order according to a predetermined order so that it can be changed step by step from one step to a plurality of steps, and the number of steps and display modes are changed. Correspondingly, the possibility that the variable display result will be a “big hit” is announced.

  Of the character display preview, for example, a mini character display preview component image that displays a mini character in accordance with the pattern of the background image is placed in the temporary storage area of the temporary image buffer 132A together with the background image component image to create a temporary image. After that, the image is drawn in the output image area of the frame buffer 132B. On the other hand, of the character display preview, for example, the part image for the character display notification accompanied by a predetermined message notification independent of the pattern of the background image is not placed in the temporary storage area of the temporary image buffer 132A but is stored in the frame buffer 132B. You may draw directly in the output image area. Of the cut-in display advance notice, for example, the part image for the cut-in display advance notice that performs animation display instead of the background image is arranged in the temporary storage area of the temporary image buffer 132A, and after the temporary image is created, Draw in the output image area. On the other hand, of the cut-in display advance notice, for example, the part image for the cut-in display advance notice accompanied by the message notification by displaying the character image is not arranged in the temporary storage area of the temporary image buffer 132A but in the output image area of the frame buffer 132B. You may draw directly. Of the step-up display advance notice, for example, the part image for the step-up display advance notice that changes the character display and animation display step by step in accordance with the pattern of the background image is arranged in the temporary storage area of the temporary image buffer 132A. Is created and then rendered in the output image area of the frame buffer 132B. On the other hand, among the step-up display advance notices, for example, the part image for the step-up display advance notice accompanied by the message notification by displaying the character image is not arranged in the temporary storage area of the temporary image buffer 132A but in the output image area of the frame buffer 132B. You may draw directly.

   Among the plurality of scene display periods, a specific period in which the provisional image is created and a non-specific period in which the provisional image is not created may be provided. As an example of a period during which such a temporary image is created, a temporary image is created by arranging a plurality of types of component images in a specific effect period in which a specific effect is executed, such as a predetermined reach effect, for example. In the period other than the specific effect period, the component image is drawn without creating a temporary image.

  FIG. 16 shows a temporary image creation switching setting example as an example of a setting when switching whether or not to create a temporary image depending on whether or not it is a specific effect period. In the setting example shown in FIG. 16, any part image in which the part image ID is designated by the image designation information in the change start period (6 seconds) from the start of variable display of decorative symbols etc. to 360 frames is assumed The image target flag is set to the off state. Therefore, a plurality of types of component images read from the image data memory 131 are drawn in the output image area of the frame buffer 132B without being arranged in the temporary storage area of the temporary image buffer 132A. After that, for example, based on the fact that the variable display state of the decorative symbols has reached the reach state, the specific effect period (12 seconds) of 720 frames following the change start period is reached. In the specific effect period, the temporary image target flag is set to the on state for any component image for which the component image ID is designated by the image designation information. Therefore, a temporary image is created by arranging a plurality of types of component images read from the image data memory 131 in the temporary storage area of the temporary image buffer 132A. Then, in response to the provisional image being designated by the image designation information, the provisional image stored in the temporary storage area of the provisional image buffer 132A is read and drawn in the output image area of the frame buffer 132B. In the variable deceleration stop period (10 seconds) of 600 frames following the specific effect period, the temporary image target flag is set to the off state, similarly to the change start period. Therefore, a plurality of types of component images read from the image data memory 131 are drawn in the output image area of the frame buffer 132B without being arranged in the temporary storage area of the temporary image buffer 132A. In this way, for example in a specific effect period, such as a period in which a reach effect is executed based on the variable display state of the decorative symbol being in the reach state, a display image is generated by drawing after creating a temporary image. On the other hand, in a period other than the specific effect period such as the fluctuation start period and the variable deceleration stop period, a display image is generated by drawing without creating a temporary image.

  The specific effect period may be a period extending over a plurality of variable displays, or may be a partial period from the start of one variable display to the display result being derived. As a period spanning a plurality of variable displays, the specific effect period may be started when the effect state in the pachinko gaming machine 1 shifts to a predetermined effect mode. After that, when the variable display is executed a plurality of times and the specific effect mode is ended, the specific effect period may be ended. As a partial period from the start of one variable display to the display result being derived, for example, when a predetermined notice effect or reach effect is executed, the provisional image May be made. For example, when a predetermined specific effect image is displayed in a part of a period in which the notice effect or the reach effect is executed, a provisional image may be created as the specific effect period. Good.

  In the temporary image buffer 132A, a temporary image having an image size corresponding to the display area (one screen) of the image display device 5 is stored. Therefore, when the temporary image is displayed in a reduced size, or when the display coordinates are changed to a position different from the reference position (0, 0) without enlarging or reducing the temporary image, the display area of the image display device 5 is used. A surplus area (residual area) in which the temporary image is not displayed is generated. In order not to generate such a surplus area, it may be considered that the image size of the temporary image is larger than the display area of the image display device 5. However, when the image size of the temporary image is increased, the capacity of the image data increases, and the processing load of image processing using the temporary image may increase. In view of this, it is only necessary to display a specific image prepared in advance, such as another component image, in such a surplus area, thereby reducing an uncomfortable feeling on the screen display while preventing an increase in the capacity of the image data of the temporary image. .

  FIG. 17A shows an example of the overlap display setting at the time of reduction, which is an example of setting when another component image is displayed in the surplus area when the temporary image is reduced. In the setting example shown in FIG. 17A, the temporary image is displayed in the same manner as the temporary image reduction display setting example shown in FIG. The display magnification is set to 1.0.times.1.0. Thereafter, in a period during which the temporary image is reduced and displayed, the background image A having the component image ID BG0021 as shown in FIG. 10 is displayed in the frame without being enlarged or reduced at a display magnification of 1.0 × 1.0. After drawing in the output image area of the buffer 132B, the temporary image is reduced at a display magnification of 0.9 × 0.9 and drawn in the output image area of the frame buffer 132B. The background image A has the same image size as the display area of the image display device 5 when the display magnification is 1.0 × 1.0, and the reference coordinates (0, 0) are set as display coordinates. Any image that can be displayed on the entire screen of the image display device 5 may be used. A part of the background image A can be displayed in the surplus area where the temporary image is not displayed by drawing the temporary image on the background image A.

  FIG. 17B shows an example of setting for overlapping display when swinging, which is an example of setting when another component image is displayed in the surplus area when the temporary image is swing-displayed. In the setting example shown in FIG. 17B, in a plurality of scene display periods in which the display coordinates of the temporary image are changed, the background image A whose component image ID is BG0021 is displayed at a display magnification of 1.0 × 1.0. After drawing in the output image area of the frame buffer 132B without enlarging or reducing, the drawing position of the temporary image is changed from the reference position and drawn in the output image area of the frame buffer 132B. As described above, the temporary image is drawn on the background image A so that when the temporary image has the same image size as the display area of the image display device 5, A part of the background image A can be displayed in the remaining area where is not displayed.

  As described above, when the temporary image is displayed in a reduced size or in a swinging manner, a predetermined component image such as a background image having the same image size as the display area of the image display device 5 is displayed as a reference position (0, 0). After drawing so as to be displayed at the coordinates, a temporary image to be reduced or swinged may be drawn in duplicate. As a result, a predetermined part image different from the temporary image is displayed in the remaining area where the temporary image is not displayed in the display area of the image display device 5, so that the screen is displayed when the temporary image is reduced or swung. Discomfort in the display can be reduced.

  When the temporary image is displayed in a rocking manner, the temporary image is abutted on the forward direction side and the reverse direction side on which the temporary image is rocked, and the temporary image is displayed in reverse (the forward direction side and the reverse direction side in the temporary image by the normal display). The data reading procedure and data writing procedure in the temporary image buffer 132A and the frame buffer 132B may be set so that the image is displayed in reverse. For example, when a temporary image read from the temporary image buffer 132A is drawn in the output image area of the frame buffer 132B, the temporary image is in contact with the forward direction side and the reverse direction side of the normally displayed temporary image. Drawing is reversed between the direction side and the reverse direction side. For example, the procedure for reading data from the temporary image buffer 132A is the same for the normal display temporary image and the reverse display temporary image, while the data write procedure for the frame buffer 132B is the normal display temporary image and the reverse display temporary image. The procedure is different from that for images. More specifically, when the temporary image is swung in the horizontal direction, if the horizontal data writing procedure is reversed as compared with the normal display of the temporary image, A display image for performing reverse display in which the right side is reversed can be generated. When the temporary image is swung in the vertical direction, if the data writing procedure in the vertical direction is reversed as compared with the normal display of the temporary image, the upper side and the lower side of the temporary image are A display image for performing reversed display can be generated.

  In addition to the background image, for example, an effect image showing a predetermined image frame may be displayed in the remaining area when the temporary image is displayed in a reduced size or in a swinging manner. Alternatively, a single color effect image different from the background image may be displayed. Alternatively, a notification effect image such as a character image for notifying a predetermined message may be displayed. Using a character image that informs the message or using an effect image that is different from the character image, a notice effect is executed to notify the possibility that the variable display result will be a “big hit” by displaying the effect image in the remainder area. Also good. Alternatively, a temporary image that is displayed in the same size as the display area of the image display area 5 is displayed so that the temporary image is displayed at the display coordinates of (0, 0) that is the reference position, and then the temporary image is displayed in a reduced or swing manner. May be drawn in duplicate. In this way, any area that displays an arbitrary image may be used as the surplus area when the temporary image is displayed in a reduced size or in a swinging manner.

  FIG. 18 shows an example of the effect execution by the reduced display of the temporary image. In this effect execution example, when the decorative symbols are variably displayed in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R as shown in FIG. The effect image indicating the character CH1 is displayed and the specific effect period is reached. At this time, the display magnification of the temporary image is set to a normal magnification of 1.0 vertical × 1.0 horizontal. The VDP 130 is a part image of a decorative pattern that is variably displayed in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R, and a hold display component that is displayed in the start winning storage display area 5H. The temporary image KG1 is created by arranging the image, the part image of the character CH1, and the like in the temporary storage area of the temporary image buffer 132A. Then, the temporary image is reduced in accordance with the display magnification specified by the attribute information, and then drawn in the output image area of the frame buffer 132B. On the other hand, the part image of the 4th symbol variably displayed in the 4th symbol display areas 5I and 5J, and the part image corresponding to the hold display of the number indicating the hold number of the variable display in the hold number display area 5K are temporarily The image is drawn in the output image area of the frame buffer 132B without being placed in the temporary storage area of the image buffer 132A.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 18B, by setting the display magnification of the temporary image KG1 to 0.85 × 0.85, the temporary image KG1 is reduced before being drawn in the output image area. Furthermore, for example, as shown in FIG. 18C, the display magnification of the temporary image KG1 is set to 0.7 × 0.7, and the temporary image KG1 is reduced before being drawn in the output image area. In this manner, a display effect is performed in which the display magnification of the temporary image KG1 is gradually decreased, and the temporary image KG1 is reduced and displayed step by step. On the other hand, the part image of the 4th symbol variably displayed in the 4th symbol display areas 5I and 5J, and the part image corresponding to the hold display of the number indicating the hold number of the variable display in the hold number display area 5K are temporarily Since it is not included in the image KG1, the same display as that in the period other than the specific effect period is maintained without being reduced.

  When the temporary image KG1 is displayed in a reduced size as shown in FIG. 18C, a message such as “News!” Or “Gekiatsu” is displayed in the remaining area where the temporary image KG1 is not displayed in the display area of the image display device 5. Is displayed. It is only necessary to be able to give a notice that the variable display result is likely to be a “hit” by executing such a notice effect that displays the effect image MS1.

  FIG. 19 shows an effect execution example by the swing display of the temporary image. In this effect execution example, the decorative symbols are variably displayed in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R as shown in FIG. The effect image indicating the character CH1 is displayed and the specific effect period is reached. At this time, the display coordinates of the temporary image are set to the reference position (0, 0). The VDP 130 displays a component image corresponding to the background image, a decorative symbol component image variably displayed in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R, and a start winning storage display area 5H. The temporary image KG2 is created by placing the component image of the hold display displayed on the screen, the component image of the character CH1, and the like in the temporary storage area of the temporary image buffer 132A. Then, the drawing position of the temporary image is changed over time according to the display coordinates specified by the attribute information, and is drawn in the output image area of the frame buffer 132B. On the other hand, the part image of the 4th symbol variably displayed in the 4th symbol display areas 5I and 5J, and the part image corresponding to the hold display of the number indicating the hold number of the variable display in the hold number display area 5K are temporarily The image is drawn in the output image area of the frame buffer 132B without being placed in the temporary storage area of the image buffer 132A.

  For example, as shown in 19 (B), by setting the display coordinates of the temporary image to (u1, v1), the drawing position is changed and output so that the display position of the temporary image KG2 moves upward than normal. Draw in the image area. Further, for example, as shown in FIG. 19C, by setting the display coordinates of the temporary image to (u2, v2), the drawing position is set so that the display position of the temporary image KG2 moves below the normal position. Change and draw in the output image area. In this way, a display effect is performed in which the display position of the temporary image KG2 is moved with the passage of time so that the temporary image KG2 is swung. On the other hand, the part image of the 4th symbol variably displayed in the 4th symbol display areas 5I and 5J, and the part image corresponding to the hold display of the number indicating the hold number of the variable display in the hold number display area 5K are temporarily Since it is not included in the image KG1, the same display as the period other than the specific effect period is maintained without being a target of the swing display.

  When the display position of the temporary image KG2 is changed to a position different from the reference position, drawing is performed so that the temporary image KG2 is arranged at the display coordinates of (0, 0) which is the reference position, and then the reference position is defined. The temporary images KG2 arranged at different positions are drawn redundantly. In this way, a part of the temporary image KG2 is displayed in a surplus area where the temporary image KG2 arranged at a position different from the reference position in the display area of the image display device 5 is not displayed. As a result, it is possible to reduce the uncomfortable feeling of the screen display when the swing image of the temporary image KG2 is displayed.

  The present invention is not limited to the above embodiment, and various modifications and applications are possible. For example, the pachinko gaming machine 1 does not have to include all the technical features shown in the above embodiment, and the part described in the above embodiment so as to solve at least one problem in the prior art. It may be provided with the following structure.

  As a specific example, in the above-described embodiment, the provisional image is reduced and displayed with the settings as shown in FIG. 14A, and the temporary image is swing-displayed with the settings as shown in FIG. 14B. It was described as possible. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and only one of the deformation process and the movement process of the temporary image may be executed. For example, a temporary image is created by arranging a plurality of types of component images in the temporary storage area of the temporary image buffer 132A, and the temporary image is enlarged or reduced at a predetermined magnification, and then rendered in the output image area of the frame buffer 132B. Anything is acceptable. Alternatively, a temporary image is created by arranging a plurality of types of component images in the temporary storage area of the temporary image buffer 132A, and the drawing position of the temporary image is changed over time, and the drawing is performed in the output image area of the frame buffer 132B. Anything to do.

  When rendering the temporary image by performing deformation processing, it is not limited to drawing after enlarging or reducing the temporary image at a predetermined magnification. For example, the temporary image is pasted to a predetermined polygon as a texture. The temporary image may be deformed and drawn according to the size and shape of the image. In this case, information of a plurality of vectors (for example, the first vector and the second vector) for determining the shape and size of the polygon is included in the attribute information, and the polygon shape is set according to the direction and size of the vector. Or the size may be determined. Then, the temporary image is pasted on the polygon so that the first coordinate axis (for example, the X axis) of the temporary image matches the first vector and the second coordinate axis (for example, the Y axis) of the temporary image matches the second vector. May be. Further, for example, a temporary image may be deformed by arranging a temporary image in a virtual three-dimensional space and executing a coordinate conversion process that converts the temporary image into a screen coordinate system based on a predetermined viewpoint in the virtual three-dimensional space. Good.

  When drawing is performed by moving the temporary image, the drawing position is changed alternately in a predetermined cycle between a predetermined forward direction and a reverse direction to perform swing display, or the locus of the drawing position is predetermined. For example, the temporary image may be drawn by rotating the temporary image. Further, for example, the temporary image may be scroll-displayed by continuously changing the drawing position of the temporary image in a certain direction.

  The display effect by the deformation process and the movement process of the temporary image in the above embodiment is derived from the variable display result after the variable display of the decorative symbol is started in synchronization with the variable display of the special symbol in the special game. For example, when the big hit gaming state is started, when the big hit gaming state is controlled, or when the big hit gaming state ends, a demonstration screen is displayed. It is only necessary that the display effect can be executed in another predetermined period determined in advance according to the progress of the game or effect in the pachinko gaming machine 1.

  In the above embodiment, in order to notify the CPU 120 for effect control of the variable pattern indicating the variable display mode such as the variable display time of the decorative symbol and the type of reach effect, one variable pattern is specified when variable display is started. Although an example in which a command is transmitted is shown, the variation pattern may be notified to the effect control CPU 120 by two or more commands. Specifically, in the case of notifying by two commands, the gaming control microcomputer 100 uses the first command as a first command before reaching reach, such as the presence or absence of variable display effects such as “slip” and “pseudo-continuous” (reach) If not, a command indicating the variable display time and variable display mode of the so-called second stop) is transmitted, and the second command is reached, such as the type of reach and the presence / absence of a re-lottery effect. You may make it transmit the command which shows variable display time after that (after what is called a 2nd stop when not reaching, and a variable display mode). In this case, the effect control CPU 120 may perform effect control in variable display based on the variable display time derived from the two commands. The game control microcomputer 100 (specifically, the CPU 103) notifies the variable display time by each of two commands, and the specific variable display mode executed at each timing is for effect control. The selection may be performed by the CPU 120. When sending two commands, the two commands may be transmitted within the same timer interrupt, or after a predetermined time has elapsed after the first command is transmitted (for example, in the next timer interrupt). ) A second command may be transmitted. In addition, the variable display mode indicated by each command is not limited to this example, and the order of transmission can be changed as appropriate. In this way, by notifying the variation pattern by two or more commands, the amount of data to be stored and prepared in advance as the variation pattern designation command can be reduced.

  The present invention can be applied at least in part to not only the pachinko gaming machine 1 but also a slot machine or the like. A slot machine is an arbitrary gaming machine that performs a predetermined game such as variable display of symbols that are a plurality of types of identification information and that can be assigned a predetermined game value based on the game result, and more specifically, A variable display device that can start a game by setting a predetermined number of bets (the number of medals or credits) for one game and variably displays a plurality of types of identification information (designs) that can be identified One game is completed by displaying and displaying a display result (for example, a plurality of reels, etc.), and a prize (for example, a cherry prize, a watermelon prize, a bell prize, a replay prize, a BB prize, an RB prize, etc.) is displayed according to the display result. ) Can be generated. In such a slot machine, the pachinko gaming machine 1 shown in the above embodiment has a feature that hardware resources including an image display device of the slot machine cooperate with software that performs predetermined processing. What is necessary is just to be comprised so that at least one part may be provided. Specifically, a temporary image is created by placing multiple types of component images in the temporary storage area, and the temporary image is enlarged or reduced at a predetermined magnification before being drawn in the output image area, or the temporary image drawing position. It is only necessary to be configured so as to be changed with time and drawn in the output image area.

  In addition, various effects including the device configuration and data configuration of the gaming machine, the processing shown in the flowchart, the image display operation of the image display device, the sound output operation of the speaker, and the lighting operation of the game effect lamp and decoration LED The operation and the like can be arbitrarily changed and modified without departing from the spirit of the present invention. In addition, the gaming machine of the present invention is not limited to a payout type gaming machine that pays out a predetermined number of gaming media as prizes based on the occurrence of winnings, and is scored based on the occurrence of winnings by enclosing gaming media It can also be applied to an enclosed game machine that gives Slot machines are not limited to those where bets are set using medals and credits as gaming values, but only slot machines that set betting numbers using gaming balls as gaming values, or only credits as gaming values. It may be a full credit type slot machine that sets the number of bets using. When game balls are used as game media, for example, one medal can correspond to five game balls. For example, when 3 is set as the bet number, the number of bets using 15 game balls is used. Is equivalent to setting The pachinko gaming machine 1 and the slot machine are not limited to those using only one of a plurality of types of gaming values such as medals and game balls, but for example, a plurality of types of medals and gaming balls. The game value may be used together. For example, a slot machine can play a game by setting the number of bets using any one of a plurality of types of gaming values such as medals and game balls, and a plurality of medals and game balls can be played by winning. Any of the types of gaming value may be paid out.

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

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

  As described above, in the above embodiment, a temporary image is created by arranging a plurality of types of component images read from the image data memory 131 in the temporary storage area of the temporary image buffer 132A, and is shown in the attribute information. The temporary image is enlarged or reduced at the display magnification to be drawn, and then drawn in the output image area of the frame buffer 132B. As a result, a plurality of types of component images can be enlarged or reduced at once without individually enlarging or reducing the plurality of types of component images constituting the temporary image, and a part or all of the display image can be enlarged or reduced. Various images can be displayed while preventing an increase in the burden of deformation processing to be reduced.

  Also, a temporary image is created by arranging a plurality of types of component images in the temporary storage area of the temporary image buffer 132A, and the drawing position of the temporary image is changed over time corresponding to the display coordinates indicated in the attribute information. The image is drawn in the output image area of the frame buffer 132B. As a result, the drawing positions of a plurality of types of component images can be changed at once without changing the drawing positions of the plurality of types of component images constituting the provisional image individually. Various images can be displayed while preventing an increase in the burden of a movement process for changing the drawing position.

  On the other hand, the part image of the 4th symbol variably displayed in the 4th symbol display areas 5I and 5J is drawn in the output image area of the frame buffer 132B without being placed in the temporary storage area of the temporary image buffer 132A. As a result, the state display using the 4th symbol in the 4th symbol display areas 5I and 5J is not affected by the deformation process and the movement process for the temporary image, so that the visibility of the state display is improved and the variable display is possible. The player can surely recognize the state.

  In addition, the part image of the hold display in the hold number display area 5K is drawn in the output image area of the frame buffer 132B without being placed in the temporary storage area of the temporary image buffer 132A. As a result, the hold display in the hold number display area 5K is not affected by the deformation process and the movement process for the temporary image, so that the visibility of the hold display is improved and the player can reliably determine the number of special figure hold memories. Can be recognized.

  For example, a temporary image created by arranging a plurality of types of component images in the temporary storage area of the temporary image buffer 132A in a specific period such as the specific effect period shown in FIG. 16 is displayed in the output image area of the frame buffer 132B. On the other hand, a plurality of types of component images are read from the image data memory 131 and drawn in the output image area of the frame buffer 132B in a period other than the specific period such as the fluctuation start period and the fluctuation deceleration stop period shown in FIG. . As a result, part or all of the component images used for creating the temporary image in the specific period can be directly drawn in the output image area and used for generating the display image in the period other than the specific period. Various images can be displayed while preventing an increase in processing load in image display by suppressing an increase in data volume.

  In the frame buffer 132B, the first buffer area 132B-1 and the second buffer area 132B-2 as shown in FIG. 3B are alternately used for drawing and display for each frame period of the image display device 5. Switch to realize the double buffering function. On the other hand, the temporary storage area of the temporary image buffer 132A stores a temporary image corresponding to one frame created by arranging a plurality of types of component images. Thereby, it is possible to prevent an increase in processing load in image display by suppressing an increase in the capacity of the temporary storage area while appropriately drawing an image.

  For example, a specific part such as a background image is provided in a surplus area where a temporary image is not drawn, as in the overlapped display setting example at the time of reduction illustrated in FIG. 17A and the overlapped display setting example at the time of swing illustrated in FIG. Draw an image. As a result, various images can be displayed by reducing the uncomfortable feeling of display in the remaining area where the temporary image is not drawn.

  The temporary image read from the temporary storage area of the temporary image buffer 132A is enlarged or reduced at the display magnification indicated in the attribute information, and the drawing position is changed over time corresponding to the display coordinates indicated in the attribute information. A temporary image may be drawn in the output image area of the frame buffer 132B. As a result, a plurality of types of component images can be created without individually enlarging or reducing the plurality of types of component images constituting the temporary image, and without individually changing the drawing position of the plurality of types of component images constituting the temporary image. The image can be enlarged or reduced at once, the drawing position of multiple types of component images can be changed at once, and various images can be displayed while preventing an increase in the burden of deformation processing and movement processing of the display image. .

  For example, as in the setting example of the temporary image swing display shown in FIG. 14B, the drawing position of the temporary image is changed alternately at a predetermined cycle by the same opposite change amount in a predetermined forward direction and reverse direction. Thus, a temporary image may be drawn in the output image area of the frame buffer 132B. Thereby, it is possible to display various images while preventing an increase in the processing burden in the display effect such as swinging the temporary image.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Pachinko machine 2 ... Game board 3 ... Gaming machine frame 4A, 4B ... Special symbol display device 5 ... Image display device 5L, 5C, 5R ... Decoration symbol display area 5H ... Start winning memory display area 5I, 5J ... First 4 Symbol display area 5K ... Reservation number display area 6A ... Ordinary winning ball apparatus 6B ... Ordinary variable winning ball apparatus 7 ... Special variable winning ball apparatus 8L, 8R ... Speaker 9 ... Game effect lamp 11 ... Main board 12 ... Production control board 13 ... Voice control board 14 ... Lamp control board 15 ... Relay board 20 ... Normal symbol display 21 ... Gate switches 22A, 22B ... Start-up switch 23 ... Count switch 100 ... Microcomputer 101, 121 for game control ROM
102, 122 ... RAM
103 ... CPU
104, 124 ... random number circuit 105, 125 ... I / O
120 ... CPU for effect control
123 ... Display control unit 130 ... VDP
131 ... Image data memory 132A ... Temporary image buffer 132B ... Frame buffer 133 ... LCD drive circuit

Claims (1)

A gaming machine comprising variable display means for performing variable display and deriving a display result, and capable of being controlled in an advantageous state advantageous to a player,
An image display unit that has a state display unit that performs state display according to a state of variable display in the variable display unit, and updates and displays an image related to the variable display in the variable display unit;
Image storage means for storing a plurality of types of component images constituting the image displayed on the image display means;
Output image creation means for arranging the plurality of types of component images in an output image area in synchronization with the predetermined period, and displaying the arranged images on the image display means;
Provisional image creation means for creating a provisional image in synchronization with the predetermined period by arranging the arrangement target images included in the plurality of types of component images in a temporary storage area;
The output image creation means includes temporary image placement means for placing the temporary image created by the temporary image creation means in the output image area,
The temporary image placement unit is arranged so that a background image included in the plurality of types of component images is placed at a reference position of the output image region by the output image creation unit and then overlaps the background image. Changing the placement position of the temporary image created by the creation means over time and placing it in the output image area;
The output image creating means arranges the part image of the state display in the state display unit in the output image area without arranging it in the temporary storage area,
When the arrangement position of the temporary image created by the temporary image creation means is changed and arranged, a predetermined effect image is displayed in an area where the temporary image is not displayed in the display area of the image display means.
A gaming machine characterized by that.