JP2018130396A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine capable of executing a new game performance without causing a player to lose interest.SOLUTION: A first specific performance for allowing execution of a jackpot game to be expected, and a second specific performance that is a performance executable after the first specific performance and allows the execution of the jackpot game to be expected are executable. A first time performance for suggesting remaining time until the first specific performance is executed between first timing during variation display and a first period, and a second time performance for suggesting remaining time until the second specific performance is executed over a second period longer than the first period from the first timing are executable. A degree of expectation toward execution of a jackpot game is higher when the second time performance and the second specific performance are executed than when the first time performance and the first specific performance are executed.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 21

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine played by a player.

  Some modern gaming machines, such as pachinko gaming machines, have various effects to entertain a player. For example, there are many that suggest the reliability (expectation) of the big hit by the display color of the title when performing the reach effect, and the reliability of the big hit by performing a so-called chance-up effect during the reach production. (For example, refer nonpatent literature 1).

“Pachinko Winning Guide”, Guide Works Co., Ltd., February 16, 2014 issue, February 16, 2014 issue, pages 4-11, CR Pachinko Hokuto no Ken 5th edition

  However, the various effects for entertaining the above-described players are effects that merely suggest the reliability of the jackpot, and in recent years, gaming machines that perform such effects are becoming new. For this reason, in a gaming machine having various effects to entertain a player, it is required to provide a new game effect (a new game effect can be executed) that does not make the player feel bored. ing.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and a main object thereof is to provide a gaming machine capable of performing a new game effect that does not make a player feel bored.

  In order to achieve the above object, one aspect of the present invention employs the following configuration. In addition, reference numerals in parentheses, explanations, and the like indicate correspondence relationships with embodiments described later in order to help understanding of the present invention, and do not limit the scope of one aspect of the present invention. Absent.

A gaming machine (1) according to one aspect of the present invention includes:
A determination means (100) for determining whether or not to execute a special game advantageous to the player due to establishment of a predetermined condition;
A symbol control unit (100) that displays the symbol in a manner that indicates the determination result after the symbol is variably displayed based on the determination result by the determination unit;
Production execution means (400, 500) capable of performing production with the variable display,
The production execution means
A first specific effect that causes the player to expect the special game to be executed, and an effect that can be executed after the first specific effect and that causes the player to expect the special game to be executed. 2 It is possible to perform specific effects and
A first time effect indicating a remaining time until the first specific effect is executed prior to the execution of the first specific effect, the effect being executed over a first period from the first timing during the variable display; , Which is an effect executed over a second period longer than the first period from the first timing, and indicates the remaining time until the second specific effect is executed prior to the execution of the second specific effect. 2 hours production can be executed (see (2) and (3) in FIG. 27),
It is possible for a player to execute the special game when the second time effect and the second specific effect are executed rather than when the first time effect and the first specific effect are executed. The degree of expectation is high (see FIG. 21).

  ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, the game machine which can perform the new game production which does not make a player get tired can be provided.

Schematic front view showing an example of a pachinko gaming machine 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention The enlarged view which shows an example of the indicator 4 provided in the pachinko machine 1 of FIG. Partial plan view of the pachinko gaming machine 1 of FIG. The block diagram which shows an example of a structure of the control apparatus provided in the pachinko gaming machine 1 An example of a flowchart showing main processing executed by the main control unit 100 An example of a detailed flowchart of the power-off monitoring process in step S911 in FIG. An example of a detailed flowchart of the recovery process in step S909 of FIG. An example of a flowchart showing timer interrupt processing executed by the main control unit 100 An example of a detailed flowchart of the start port switch process in step S2 of FIG. An example of a detailed flowchart of the special symbol process in step S4 of FIG. The figure for demonstrating an example of a fluctuation pattern determination table The figure for demonstrating an example of a fluctuation pattern determination table The figure for demonstrating an example of a fluctuation pattern determination table The figure for demonstrating an example of a fluctuation pattern determination table An example of a flowchart showing timer interrupt processing performed by the effect control unit 400 An example of a detailed flowchart of command reception processing in step S11 of FIG. An example of a detailed flowchart of command reception processing in step S11 of FIG. An example of a detailed flowchart of the notification effect setting process in step S115 of FIG. An example of a flowchart showing the timer notice effect setting process in step S708 of FIG. An example of a time chart of the notification effect in which the SPSP reach effect is executed after the pseudo continuous effect according to the present embodiment is executed twice. An example of a table that is referred to when determining an expected effect to be notified of a timer notice effect and a start timing of the timer notice effect according to the present embodiment An example of a time chart of the notification effect in which the SP reach effect is executed after the pseudo continuous effect according to the present embodiment is executed twice. An example of a table referred to when determining the start timing of the timer notice effect according to the present embodiment An example of a flowchart showing an effect execution process executed by the image sound control unit 500 An example of a flowchart showing an effect execution process executed by the image sound control unit 500 An example of a flowchart showing an effect execution process executed by the image sound control unit 500 Time chart for explaining a specific example of the timer notice effect according to the present embodiment The figure for demonstrating the specific example of the timer notice effect which concerns on this embodiment. The figure for demonstrating the specific example of the timer notice effect which concerns on this embodiment. The figure for demonstrating the specific example of the timer notice effect which concerns on this embodiment. The figure for demonstrating the specific example of the timer notice effect which concerns on this embodiment.

  Hereinafter, a pachinko gaming machine 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings as appropriate. Hereinafter, the pachinko gaming machine 1 may be simply referred to as a gaming machine 1.

[Schematic configuration of pachinko gaming machine 1]
Hereinafter, a schematic configuration of the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 1 is a schematic front view showing an example of a gaming machine 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is an enlarged view showing an example of the display 4 provided in the gaming machine 1. FIG. 3 is a partial plan view of the gaming machine 1.

  In FIG. 1, a gaming machine 1 is a pachinko gaming machine configured to pay out a winning ball when a gaming ball launched by a player's operation wins a prize, for example. This gaming machine 1 includes a game board 2 on which game balls are launched, and a frame member 5 surrounding the game board 2. The frame member 5 is configured to be openable and closable with respect to the main part of the gaming machine 1 around a hinge provided on the shaft support side. And the lock part 43 is provided in the predetermined position (for example, edge part on the opposite side to a shaft support side) which becomes the front side of the frame member 5, and the frame member 5 is unlocked by unlocking the lock part 43. Can be opened.

  A game area 20 for playing a game with a game ball is formed on the front surface of the game board 2. In the gaming area 20, a rail member (from which a game ball launched from below (the launching device 211; see FIG. 4) rises along the main surface of the game board 2 and forms a path toward the upper position of the gaming area 20 ( (Not shown) and a guide member (not shown) for guiding the raised game ball to the right side of the game area 20.

  In addition, the game board 2 is provided with an image display unit 6 that displays images for various effects at positions that are easily visible to the player. The image display unit 6 notifies the player of the result of the special symbol lottery (big hit lottery), for example, by displaying a decorative symbol according to the progress of the game by the player, the appearance of a character, the appearance of an item, etc. Or a reserved image showing the number of times the special symbol lottery is held. The image display unit 6 is configured by a liquid crystal display device, an EL (Electro Luminescence) display device, or the like, but any other display device may be used. Furthermore, a movable accessory 7 and a board lamp 8 used for various effects are provided on the front surface of the game board 2. The movable accessory 7 is configured to be movable with respect to the game board 2, and produces an effect by performing a predetermined operation in accordance with the progress of the game or in accordance with the operation of the player. The board lamp 8 emits light according to the progress of the game, thereby performing various effects by light.

  In the game area 20, a game nail and a windmill (both not shown) that change the falling direction of the game ball are arranged. Further, in the game area 20, various bonuses related to winning and lottery are arranged at predetermined positions. In FIG. 1, the first start port 21, the second start port 22, the gate 25, the big winning port 23, and the normal winning port 24 are arranged on the game board 2 as an example of various prizes related to winning and lottery. Has been. In addition, the game area 20 is provided with a discharge port 26 through which game balls that have not been won in any of the game areas of the game balls launched into the game area 20 are discharged out of the game area 20. .

  The first start port 21 and the second start port 22 are awarded when a game ball enters, respectively, and a special symbol lottery (big hit lottery) is started. The first start port 21 operates a predetermined special electric accessory (large winning port 23) and / or a predetermined special symbol display (first special symbol display 4a described later). It is a winning opening related to winning a game ball. Further, the second start opening 22 operates the special electric accessory and / or a predetermined special symbol display device (second special symbol display device 4b described later), and wins related to winning a game ball. The mouth. When the game ball passes through the gate 25, the normal symbol lottery (the open / close lottery of the electric tulip 27 described below) starts. The lottery is not started even if a game ball wins the normal winning opening 24.

  The second start port 22 is provided below the first start port 21 and includes an electric tulip 27 in the vicinity of the entrance of the game ball as an example of an ordinary electric accessory. The electric tulip 27 has a pair of wings imitating tulip flowers, and the pair of wings opens and closes left and right by driving an electric tulip opening / closing unit 112 (for example, an electric solenoid) described later. When the pair of blade portions are closed (see FIG. 1), the electric tulip 27 is closed so that the game ball does not enter the second starting port 22 because the opening width guided to the inlet of the second starting port 22 is extremely narrow. It becomes a state. On the other hand, in the electric tulip 27, when the pair of blades are opened to the left and right (not shown), the opening width guided to the entrance of the second start port 22 increases, so that the game ball enters the second start port 22. Easy opening. When the electric tulip 27 passes through the gate 25 and the normal symbol lottery is won, the pair of blades opens for a specified time (for example, 0.10 seconds) and opens and closes for a specified number of times (for example, once). To do.

  The special winning opening 23 is located below the second starting opening 22 and opens according to the result of the special symbol lottery. The big prize opening 23 is normally in a closed state so that no game balls can enter, but depending on the result of the special symbol lottery, it protrudes from the main surface of the game board 2 and is in an open state. The game ball is easy to enter. For example, the special winning opening 23 repeats a round that is in an open state until a predetermined condition (for example, 29.5 seconds elapses or a winning of 10 game balls) is satisfied a predetermined number of times (for example, 16 times).

  Further, on the lower right side of the game board 2, a display 4 for displaying the results of the special symbol lottery and the normal symbol lottery described above and the number of reserved items is arranged. Details of the display 4 will be described later.

  Here, the payout of prize balls will be described. When a game ball enters (wins) the first start port 21, the second start port 22, the big winning port 23, and the normal winning port 24, a predetermined number per game ball is determined according to the place where the game ball has won. Prize balls are paid out. For example, when one game ball is won at the first start port 21 and the second start port 22, three prize balls are awarded, and when one game ball is won at the big prize port 23, thirteen prize balls are given to the normal prize slot 24. When one game ball is won, ten prize balls are paid out. Even if it is detected that the game ball has passed through the gate 25, there is no payout of the prize ball in conjunction with it.

  The frame member 5 on the front surface of the gaming machine 1 is provided with a handle 31, a lever 32, a stop button 33, a take-out button 34, a speaker 35, a frame lamp 36, an effect button 37, an effect key 38, a dish 39, and the like. Yes.

  When the player touches the handle 31 and performs an operation to rotate the lever 32 clockwise, the launching device 211 (100 per minute) with a hitting force according to the operation angle (for example, 100 per minute). 4) electrically fires the game ball. The tray 39 (see FIG. 3) is provided so as to protrude in front of the gaming machine 1 and temporarily stores game balls supplied to the launching device 211. In addition, the above-described prize balls are paid out to the plate 39. The game balls stored in the tray 39 are supplied to the launching device 211 one by one by a supply device (not shown) at a timing linked with the operation by the player's lever 32.

  The stop button 33 is provided on the lower side surface of the handle 31, and even when the player touches the handle 31 and rotates the lever 32 in the clockwise direction, the game ball is released by being pressed by the player. Is temporarily stopped. The take-out button 34 is provided on the front surface in the vicinity of the position where the tray 39 is provided, and when the player presses it, the game balls accumulated in the tray 39 are dropped into a box (not shown).

  The speaker 35 and the frame lamp 36 respectively notify the gaming state and situation of the gaming machine 1 and perform various effects. The speaker 35 performs various effects using music, voice, and sound effects. In addition, the frame lamp 36 performs various effects by light depending on a pattern by lighting / flashing or a difference in emission color.

  Next, the display 4 provided in the gaming machine 1 will be described with reference to FIG. In FIG. 2, the display 4 includes a first special symbol display 4a, a second special symbol display 4b, a first special symbol hold indicator 4c, a second special symbol hold indicator 4d, a normal symbol indicator 4e, and a normal symbol indicator 4e. A symbol hold display 4f and a game status display 4g are provided.

  The first special symbol display 4a is displayed with the display symbol varying corresponding to the winning of the game ball at the first starting port 21. For example, the first special symbol display 4a is composed of a 7-segment display device, and when a game ball is won at the first starting port 21, the special symbol is displayed in a variable manner, and then the lottery result is displayed. Further, the second special symbol display 4b is displayed with the display symbols varying corresponding to the winning of the game ball at the second starting port 22. For example, the second special symbol display 4b is similarly composed of a 7-segment display device, and when a game ball wins at the second starting port 22, the special symbol is displayed in a variable manner and then stopped and the lottery result is displayed. To do. In the normal symbol display 4e, the display symbol is changed and displayed in response to the game ball passing through the gate 25. For example, the normal symbol display 4e is constituted by an LED display device, and when a game ball passes through the gate 25, the normal symbol is variably displayed and then stopped and displayed.

  The first special symbol hold indicator 4c displays the number of times that the special symbol lottery is held when a game ball wins at the first start port 21. The second special symbol hold indicator 4d displays the number of times that the special symbol lottery is held when the game ball wins at the second start port 22. The normal symbol hold display 4f displays the number of times the normal symbol lottery is held. For example, the first special symbol hold indicator 4c, the second special symbol hold indicator 4d, and the normal symbol hold indicator 4f are each composed of LED display devices arranged in a row, and the number of times of hold is displayed according to the lighting mode. The

  The game state display 4g displays a game state (such as a short time state) when the gaming machine 1 is powered on.

  Next, an input device provided in the gaming machine 1 will be described with reference to FIG. In FIG. 3, the gaming machine 1 is provided with an effect button 37 and an effect key 38 as an example of an input device.

  The effect button 37 and the effect key 38 are provided for the player to input the effect. The effect button 37 is provided on the side of the upper surface of the tray 39 protruding forward of the gaming machine 1. The production key 38 has a center key and four direction keys arranged in a substantially cross shape, and is provided on the upper side of the plate 39 adjacent to the production button 37. The effect button 37 and the effect key 38 are each pressed by the player to perform a predetermined effect. For example, the player can enjoy a predetermined effect by pressing the effect button 37 at a predetermined timing. Further, the player can select one of a plurality of images displayed on the image display unit 6 by operating the four direction keys of the effect key 38. Further, the player can input the selected image as information by operating the center key of the effect key 38.

  In addition, on the back side of the gaming machine 1, a ball tank for storing game balls for payout and a payout device (payout drive unit 311) for paying out the game balls to the tray 39 are provided, and various substrates are attached. ing. For example, a main board, a sub board, and the like are disposed on the rear surface of the game board 2. Specifically, a main control board on which a main control unit 100 (see FIG. 4) that performs internal lottery and determination of winning is configured is disposed on the main board. The sub-board includes a firing control board 200 (see FIG. 4) configured to control a launching device 211 that launches a game ball to the upper part of the game area 20, and a payout control unit 300 that controls the payout of a prize ball. A payout control board configured with an effect control board configured with an effect control section 400 for overall control of effects, an image control board configured with an image acoustic control section 500 for controlling effects with images and sounds, and various types The lamp control board etc. in which the lamp control part 600 which controls the effect by the lamp (frame lamp 36, panel lamp 8) and the movable accessory 7 are arranged. In addition, on the rear surface of the gaming board 2, the power source of the gaming machine 1 is switched on / off, and 24V (volt) AC power supplied to the gaming machine 1 is converted into DC power of various voltages. A switching power supply is provided for outputting the direct current power to the various substrates described above.

[Configuration of control device of pachinko gaming machine 1]
Next, with reference to FIG. 4, a control device that performs operation control and signal processing in the gaming machine 1 will be described. FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the control device provided in the gaming machine 1.

  4, the control device of the gaming machine 1 includes a main control unit 100, a launch control unit 200, a payout control unit 300, an effect control unit 400, an image sound control unit 500, a lamp control unit 600, and the like.

  The main control unit 100 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 101, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 102, and a RAM (Random Access Memory) 103. The CPU 101 performs arithmetic processing when performing various controls related to the number of payout prize balls, such as internal lottery and determination of winning. The ROM 102 stores programs executed by the CPU 101 and various data. The RAM 103 is used as a working memory for the CPU 101. Hereinafter, main functions of the main control unit 100 will be described.

  The main control unit 100 performs a special symbol lottery (big hit lottery) when a game ball wins at the first starting port 21 or the second starting port 22, and effects control is performed on determination result data indicating whether or not the special symbol lottery is won. Send to part 400.

  The main control unit 100 controls the opening time when the blade portion of the electric tulip 27 is opened, the number of times the blade portion is opened and closed, and the opening / closing time interval at which the blade portion is opened and closed. Further, the main control unit 100 executes the special symbol lottery execution suspension number when the game ball wins the first start port 21, the special symbol lottery execution suspension number when the game ball wins the second start port 22, In addition, the number of execution suspensions of the normal symbol lottery when the game ball passes through the gate 25 is managed, and data related to the number of suspensions is sent to the effect control unit 400.

  The main control unit 100 controls the opening / closing operation of the special winning opening 23 according to the result of the special symbol lottery. For example, the main control unit 100 repeats a predetermined number of rounds (for example, 16 rounds) in which the big winning opening 23 protrudes and tilts until a predetermined condition (for example, 29.5 seconds elapse or 10 game balls are won) is satisfied. Control to repeat only times. Further, the main control unit 100 controls an opening / closing time interval (interval time) at which the special winning opening 23 opens and closes.

  The main control unit 100 changes the game state in accordance with the progress of the game, and according to the progress of the game, the winning probability of the special symbol lottery, the execution interval of the special symbol lottery (the special symbol is variably displayed on the display 4) In other words, it may be said that it is a time to stop and display), and the opening / closing operation of the electric tulip 27 is changed.

  When a game ball is won in the first start port 21, the second start port 22, the big winning port 23, and the normal winning port 24, the main control unit 100 determines a predetermined number per game ball according to the place where the game ball has won. The payout control unit 300 is instructed to pay out the prize balls. Even if the main control unit 100 detects that the game ball has passed through the gate 25, the main control unit 100 does not instruct the payout control unit 300 to pay out the prize ball in conjunction therewith. When the payout control unit 300 pays out a prize ball according to an instruction from the main control unit 100, information on the number of prize balls paid out from the payout control unit 300 is sent to the main control unit 100. Then, the main control unit 100 manages the number of paid-out prize balls based on the information acquired from the payout control unit 300.

  In order to realize the above-described functions, the main control unit 100 includes a first start port switch 111a, a second start port switch 111b, an electric tulip opening / closing unit 112, a gate switch 113, a big prize opening switch 114, a big prize opening opening / closing. 115, normal winning opening switch 116, display 4 (first special symbol display 4a, second special symbol display 4b, first special symbol hold indicator 4c, second special symbol hold indicator 4d, normal symbol display 4e, a normal symbol hold display 4f, and a game status display 4g) are connected.

  The first start port switch 111 a sends a signal to the main control unit 100 in response to the winning of the game ball to the first start port 21. The second start port switch 111 b sends a signal corresponding to the winning of the game ball to the second start port 22 to the main control unit 100. The electric tulip opening / closing unit 112 opens and closes the pair of blade portions of the electric tulip 27 in accordance with a control signal sent from the main control unit 100. The gate switch 113 sends a signal corresponding to the game ball passing through the gate 25 to the main control unit 100. The big winning opening switch 114 sends a signal corresponding to the winning of the game ball to the big winning opening 23 to the main control unit 100. The special prize opening / closing unit 115 opens and closes the special prize opening 23 in accordance with a control signal sent from the main control unit 100. The normal winning port switch 116 sends a signal to the main control unit 100 in response to the winning of the game ball to the normal winning port 24.

  In addition, the main control unit 100 displays the result of a special symbol lottery started by winning a game ball at the first starting port 21 (hereinafter sometimes referred to as a first special symbol lottery) on the first special symbol display 4a. indicate. The main control unit 100 displays on the second special symbol display 4b the result of the special symbol lottery started by the winning of the game ball to the second starting port 22 (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the second special symbol lottery). . The main control unit 100 displays the number of times the first special symbol lottery is on hold on the first special symbol hold display 4c. The main control unit 100 displays the number of holdings for which the second special symbol lottery is held on the second special symbol holding display 4d. The main control unit 100 displays the result of the normal symbol lottery started by passing the game ball to the gate 25 on the normal symbol display 4e. The main control unit 100 displays the number of times of holding the normal symbol lottery on the normal symbol hold display 4f. Further, the main control unit 100 displays the gaming state at that time on the gaming state display 4g when the gaming machine 1 is turned on.

  The launch control unit 200 includes a CPU 201, a ROM 202, and a RAM 203. The CPU 201 performs arithmetic processing when performing various controls related to the launching device 211. The ROM 202 stores programs executed by the CPU 201 and various data. The RAM 203 is used as a working memory for the CPU 201.

  When the lever 32 is in the neutral position, the lever 32 is in a firing stop state without outputting a signal. When the player is rotated clockwise by the player, the lever 32 outputs a signal corresponding to the rotation angle to the firing control unit 200 as a hitting ball firing command signal. The launch control unit 200 controls the launch operation of the launch device 211 based on the hit ball launch command signal. For example, the launch control unit 200 controls the operation of the launch device 211 so that the speed at which the game ball is launched increases as the rotation angle of the lever 32 increases. When the signal indicating that the stop button 33 is pressed is output, the launch control unit 200 stops the operation of the launch device 211 firing the game ball.

  The payout control unit 300 includes a CPU 301, a ROM 302, and a RAM 303. The CPU 301 performs a calculation process when controlling the payout of the payout ball. The ROM 302 stores programs executed by the CPU 301 and various data. A RAM 303 is used as a working memory for the CPU 301.

  The payout control unit 300 controls payout of the payout ball based on the command sent from the main control unit 100. Specifically, the payout control unit 300 acquires from the main control unit 100 a command for paying out a predetermined number of prize balls according to the place where the game ball has won. Then, the payout driving unit 311 is controlled so as to pay out the number of prize balls specified by the command. Here, the payout drive unit 311 is configured by a drive motor or the like that sends out a game ball from a game ball storage unit (ball tank).

  The effect control unit 400 includes a CPU 401, a ROM 402, a RAM 403, and an RTC (real time clock) 404. The effect control unit 400 is connected to the effect key 38 operated by the player, and the effect control unit 400 acquires operation data output from the effect key 38 in accordance with the operation of the effect key 38 by the player. To do. Further, the effect control unit 400 acquires operation data output from the effect button 37 via the lamp control unit 600. The CPU 401 performs a calculation process when controlling the effect. The ROM 402 stores programs executed by the CPU 401 and various data. The RAM 403 is used as a working memory for the CPU 401. The RTC 404 measures the current date and time.

  The production control unit 400 sets production contents based on data indicating the special symbol lottery result and the like sent from the main control unit 100. In addition, when the effect button 37 or the effect key 38 is pressed by the player, the effect control unit 400 may set the effect content according to the operation input or the detection result.

  The image sound control unit 500 includes a CPU 501, a ROM 502, and a RAM 503. The CPU 501 performs arithmetic processing when controlling the image and sound expressing the content of the effect. The ROM 502 stores programs executed by the CPU 501 and various data. The RAM 503 is used as a working memory for the CPU 501.

  The image sound control unit 500 controls the image displayed on the image display unit 6 and the sound output from the speaker 35 based on the command sent from the effect control unit 400. Specifically, in the ROM 502 of the image sound control unit 500, a decorative symbol image for notifying a special symbol lottery result, an image of a character or item for displaying a notice effect or a pre-read notice effect, a special symbol lottery The image data for displaying on the image display unit 6 a reserved image indicating that the image is held, various background images, and the like are stored. The ROM 502 of the image sound control unit 500 stores various types of sound data such as music and sound output from the speaker 35 in synchronization with the image displayed on the image display unit 6 or independently of the displayed image. It is remembered. The CPU 501 of the image sound control unit 500 selects and reads out the data corresponding to the command sent from the effect control unit 400 from the image data and sound data stored in the ROM 502. The CPU 501 performs image processing for background image display, decorative symbol image display, character / item display, and the like using the read image data, and performs various processes corresponding to commands sent from the effect control unit 400. Perform production display. Then, the CPU 501 displays the image indicated by the image processed image data on the image display unit 6. In addition, the CPU 501 performs sound processing using the read sound data, and outputs the sound indicated by the sound processing sound data from the speaker 35.

  The lamp control unit 600 includes a CPU 601, a ROM 602, and a RAM 603. The CPU 601 performs arithmetic processing when controlling the light emission of the panel lamp 8, the frame lamp 36, the effect button 37, and the operation of the movable accessory 7. The ROM 602 stores programs executed by the CPU 601 and various data. The RAM 603 is used as a working memory for the CPU 601.

  Based on the command sent from the effect control unit 400, the lamp control unit 600 controls lighting / flashing of the panel lamp 8, the frame lamp 36, and the effect button 37, the emission color, and the like. The lamp controller 600 controls the operation of the movable accessory 7 based on the command sent from the effect controller 400. Specifically, the ROM 602 of the lamp control unit 600 stores lighting / flashing pattern data and emission color pattern data for the panel lamp 8, the frame lamp 36, and the production button 37 according to the production contents set by the production control unit 400. (Light emission pattern data) is stored. The CPU 601 selects and reads out the light emission pattern data stored in the ROM 602 corresponding to the command sent from the effect control unit 400. The CPU 601 controls the light emission of the panel lamp 8, the frame lamp 36, and the effect button 37 based on the read light emission pattern data. In addition, the ROM 602 stores operation pattern data of the movable accessory 7 corresponding to the effect contents set by the effect control unit 400. The CPU 601 selects and reads out the operation pattern data stored in the ROM 602 corresponding to the command sent from the effect control unit 400. Then, the CPU 601 controls the operation of the movable accessory 7 based on the read operation pattern data.

  The lamp control unit 600 is connected to an effect button 37 that is operated by the player, and the lamp control unit 600 outputs operation data output from the effect button 37 in response to the operation of the effect button 37 by the player. And the operation data is transmitted to the effect control unit 400.

  The effect control unit 400 controls the image sound control unit 500 based on the operation data of the effect button 37 transmitted from the lamp control unit 600 and the operation data output from the effect key 38. The operation state of the production key 38 is notified. Here, the operation state of the effect button 37 and the effect key 38 is whether or not the operation is being performed and what kind of operation is being performed (for example, long press of the effect button 37 or the left of the effect key 38). Information including pressing of a direction key). Therefore, for example, when the effect button 37 is operated by the player, the operation state of the effect button 37 detected by the lamp control unit 600 is transmitted to the image sound control unit 500 via the effect control unit 400. For this reason, the image sound control unit 500 can change the content of the effect based on the operation state of the effect button 37 transmitted from the effect control unit 400.

[Outline of gaming state in this embodiment]
Next, the gaming state of the gaming machine 1 in this embodiment will be described. The gaming state of the gaming machine 1 includes at least a high probability state, a low probability state, an electric support state, a non-electric support state, a short-time state, a non-short-time state, and a big hit gaming state. The low probability state is a gaming state in which the winning probability of the special symbol lottery is set to a normal low probability (for example, 1/300), and the high probability state is that the winning probability of the special symbol lottery is lower than the low probability state. The gaming state is set to a high probability (for example, 1/80). In the non-electric support state, the winning probability of the normal symbol lottery is a normal low probability (for example, 1/10), and even if the normal symbol lottery is won, the electric tulip 27 is short (for example, 0.10 seconds). Is a game state in which the release control is performed only once), and therefore, it is a game state in which it is difficult for a game ball to enter the second start port 22. In the electric support state, the winning probability of the normal symbol lottery is higher than the non-electric support state (for example, 10/10), and when the normal symbol lottery is won, the electric tulip 27 is long (for example, 2.00 seconds). 3), the electric tulip 27 is frequently opened for a long period of time, and it is easy for the game balls to enter the second start port 22 frequently (winning). A gaming state. The non-short-time state is a gaming state in which the execution time of the special symbol lottery is a normal predetermined time, and the short-time state is a gaming state in which the execution time of the special symbol lottery is shortened compared to the non-short-time state. The jackpot game state is a game state in which a jackpot game is executed in which a special symbol lottery is won (winning) and the jackpot 23 is opened. In the present embodiment, the electric support state and the short-time state are controlled at the same time. However, in this gaming state, the gaming ball is likely to win a prize at the second starting port 22, so that the gaming ball is mostly Many special symbol lotteries can be executed in a short time without decreasing. In the following, the gaming state controlled to the low-accuracy state, the non-electric support state, and the non-short-time state is referred to as the normal gaming state, and the gaming state controlled to the high-accuracy state, non-electric support state, and the non-time-short state is latent. It is called a gaming state, a gaming state that is controlled to a highly accurate state, an electric support state, and a short time state is called a probability changing gaming state, and a low probability state, an electric support state, and a short time state are called a short time gaming state.

  Next, a processing flow executed by the pachinko gaming machine 1 will be described.

[Main processing by main control unit 100]
First, the main process executed by the main control unit 100 will be described with reference to FIG. This main process is started when the power of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is turned on, and is continuously executed while the main control unit 100 is activated.

  In step S901 in FIG. 5, first, the CPU 101 waits for, for example, 2000 ms, and the process proceeds to step S902. Although not shown, when the power of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is turned on, the CPU 401 of the effect control unit 400 can receive a signal from the main control unit 100 without performing standby processing. . That is, the CPU 401 of the effect control unit 400 is in a state where processing can be started before the CPU 101 of the main control unit 100.

  In step S902, the CPU 101 can access the RAM 103, and the process proceeds to step S903.

  In step S903, the CPU 101 determines whether or not a RAM clear switch (not shown) is “ON”. If the determination in step S903 is YES, the process proceeds to step S904. If the determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S907.

  In step S904, the CPU 101 clears the RAM. Here, the RAM clear is a well-known technique and will not be described in detail, but various information (for example, information indicating the gaming state) stored in the RAM 103 is set to a predetermined initial state. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S905.

  In step S905, the CPU 101 sets a work area when the RAM is cleared, and the process proceeds to step S906.

  In step S906, the CPU 101 performs initial setting of the peripheral portion. Here, the peripheral portion is the effect control unit 400, the payout control unit 300, or the like. Initial setting of the peripheral unit is performed by transmitting an initial setting command for instructing execution of the initial setting to each control unit. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S910.

  In step S907, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the backup flag is “ON”. Note that the backup flag is a flag that is turned on when the generation of backup data is normally completed when the power is turned off, and is a flag indicating that the backup data is valid in association with the generated backup data. If the determination in step S907 is YES, the process moves to step S908. If the determination is NO, the process moves to step S904.

  In step S908, the CPU 101 determines whether the checksum is normal. If the determination in step S908 is YES, the process proceeds to step S909. If the determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S904.

  In step S909, the CPU 101 executes a recovery process (see FIG. 7) described later, and the process proceeds to step S910.

  In step S910, the CPU 101 sets a cycle (for example, 4 ms) of a built-in CTC (timer counter). The CPU 101 executes a timer interrupt process (see FIG. 8) described later using the period set here. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S911.

  In step S911, the CPU 101 executes a power shutdown monitoring process (see FIG. 6) described later, and the process proceeds to step S912.

  In step S912, the CPU 101 performs setting to prohibit interruption of the timer interrupt process, and the process proceeds to step S913.

  In step S913, the CPU 101 updates (counts up) various initial value random numbers, and the process proceeds to step S914. Here, the initial value random number is used to determine the start value of various random numbers (big hit random number, symbol random number, reach random number, variation pattern random number) counted up and updated in a timer interrupt process (see FIG. 8) described later. A plurality of initial value random numbers corresponding to various random numbers are prepared. The initial value random number includes the timer interrupt process (see FIG. 8) that occurs every predetermined CTC period (4 ms) and the remaining time (that is, the processing time required for the timer interrupt process from the predetermined CTC period). The count-up is updated both in the main process (see FIG. 5) processed during the subtracted time, and after reaching the set maximum value (for example, 299), it returns to the minimum value (for example, 0) again. Further, since this remaining time varies depending on the processing status of the CPU 101, it is a random time, and the number of updates of the initial random number that is updated with the remaining time is also random. On the other hand, as will be described in detail later, since various other random numbers (big hit random numbers, design random numbers, reach random numbers, fluctuation pattern random numbers) are updated only by timer interrupt processing (see FIG. 8), initial value random numbers are random number update processing. The processing cycle is different. In this way, due to the difference in processing cycle, for example, even if the random number range of the initial value random number and the big hit random number is the same (for example, 0 to 299), the initial value random number acquired as the start value of the big hit random number The value is random every time. Therefore, it is possible to make it difficult to predict the timing at which the big hit random number value that generates the big hit is acquired.

  In step S914, the CPU 101 performs setting to permit interruption of the timer interrupt process, and the process returns to step S911. That is, the CPU 101 repeatedly executes the processes in steps S911 to S914.

[Power-off monitoring process by the main control unit 100]
FIG. 6 is a detailed flowchart of the power-off monitoring process in step S911 in FIG. In step S9111, the CPU 101 prohibits the interrupt process, and the process proceeds to step S9112.

  In step S9112, the CPU 101 determines whether the power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 1 is cut off based on whether a power cut-off signal is input from a power supply unit (not shown). If the determination in step S9112 is YES, the process moves to step S9114. If the determination is NO, the process moves to step S9113.

  In step S9113, the CPU 101 permits the interrupt process and ends the power shutdown monitoring process (the process moves to step S912 in FIG. 5).

  On the other hand, in step S9114, the CPU 101 clears the output port through which various information is input / output to / from the CPU 101, and the process proceeds to step S9115.

  In step S 9115, the CPU 101 creates backup data in the RAM 103 based on the current gaming state of the gaming machine 1, creates a checksum from the contents of the RAM 103, and stores the checksum in the RAM 103. In this process, the power supply voltage is set to “0” after detecting that the power supply voltage has started to decrease due to the power supply cutoff of the power supplied to the main control unit 100 (after “YES” is determined in step S9112). It is done during the period until it becomes. Through this process, game state information and the like immediately before the power is turned off are stored in the RAM 103. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S9116.

  In step S9116, the CPU 101 sets the backup flag to “ON”, and the process proceeds to step S9117.

  In step S <b> 9117, the CPU 101 prohibits access to the RAM 103 and ends the power shutdown monitoring process (the process moves to step S <b> 912 in FIG. 5).

[Restoration process by main control unit 100]
FIG. 7 is a detailed flowchart of the recovery process in step S909 of FIG. First, in step S9091 of FIG. 7, the CPU 101 sets a work area of the RAM 103 at the time of restoration, and the process proceeds to step S9092.

  In step S9092, the CPU 101 refers to the information in the RAM 103, confirms information regarding the gaming state at the time of power-off and the number of special symbol lotteries held, and sends a recovery notification command including the information to the effect control unit 400. Send. As described above, the CPU 101 transmits a recovery notification command indicating the power-off state to the effect control unit 400 in order to notify that the power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 1 has been recovered. By the processing in step S9092, the effect control unit 400 can check the gaming state before power-off and the like.

  In step S9093, the CPU 101 sets a peripheral part, and the process proceeds to step S9094.

  In step S9094, the CPU 101 sets the backup flag to “OFF” and ends the recovery process (the process moves to step S910 in FIG. 5).

[Timer interrupt processing of main control unit]
Next, timer interrupt processing executed in the main control unit 100 will be described. FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating an example of timer interrupt processing performed by the main control unit 100. Hereinafter, a timer interrupt process performed in the main control unit 100 will be described with reference to FIG. The main control unit 100 repeatedly executes a series of processes shown in FIG. 8 at regular time intervals (for example, 4 milliseconds) during a normal operation except for special cases such as when the power is turned on or when the power is turned off. Note that processing performed by the main control unit 100 described based on the flowcharts in FIG. 8 and the subsequent steps is executed based on a program stored in the ROM 102.

  First, in step S1, the CPU 101 of the main control unit 100 serves as a starting value for updating various random numbers such as jackpot random numbers, symbol random numbers, reach random numbers, and variation pattern random numbers, and counting up each random number. Random number update processing for updating each initial value random number is executed. Here, the big hit random number is a random number for determining whether or not a special symbol lottery is won or lost (that is, performing a special symbol lottery). The symbol random number is a random number for determining the type of jackpot when the special symbol lottery is won. The jackpot random number and the design random number are random numbers used in the process of step S407 in FIG. The reach random number is a random number for determining whether or not a reach effect is performed when a special symbol lottery is lost. The variation pattern random number is a random number for determining the variation time (variation pattern) of the special symbol. Here, the variation time of the special symbol is equal to the execution time of the notification effect (variation effect) executed in synchronization with the variation of the special symbol. The reach random number and the fluctuation pattern random number are used in the process of step S408 in FIG. 10 described later. In the random number update process of step S1, the big hit random number, the design random number, the reach random number, the variation pattern random number, etc. are each added and updated by one. That is, it is counted up. Each random number is acquired in the start port switch (SW) process in step S2 and the gate switch (SW) process in step S3, and is used in the special symbol process in step S4 and the normal symbol process in step S5 described later. Note that the counter that performs the processing of step S1 is typically a loop counter, and returns to 0 again after reaching the maximum value of the set random number (for example, 299 for the variation pattern random number) (that is, the circulation counter). To do). In addition, in the random number update process of step S1, each counter such as a big hit random number, a design random number, a reach random number, and a variation pattern random number is initialized to an initial value corresponding to each random number at that time when the loop counter counts once. A random number is acquired, and the loop counter is newly started using the initial random number as a start value. The random number ranges such as jackpot random numbers, design random numbers, reach random numbers, and fluctuation pattern random numbers may be set arbitrarily, but by setting each to a different range, the counter value (count) (Value) is preferably set so as not to synchronize.

  Next, in step S2, the CPU 101 monitors the state of the first start port switch 111a and the second start port switch 111b, and when one of the switches is turned on (the first start port switch 111a or the second start port switch 111b). When a game ball detection signal is output from the mouth switch 111b), a start opening switch that performs processing relating to the number of holdings U1 for the first special symbol lottery, the number of holdings U2 for the second special symbol lottery, and processing for obtaining various random numbers. Execute the process. Details of the start port switch process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  Next, in step S3, the CPU 101 monitors the state of the gate switch 113 and, based on the output signal from the gate switch 113, determines that the game ball has passed through the gate 25. Is determined to be less than the upper limit value (for example, 4), and if it is determined that the number of holds is less than the upper limit value, a gate switch process for acquiring a random number used in the normal symbol process in step S5 described later is executed. .

  Next, in step S4, the CPU 101 executes the first special symbol lottery or the second special symbol lottery, and after the special symbols are variably displayed on the first special symbol display 4a or the second special symbol display 4b, these are displayed. The stop symbol display process showing the lottery result of the above and the special symbol process for transmitting various commands to the effect control unit 400 are executed. This special symbol process will be described in detail later with reference to FIG.

  Next, in step S5, the CPU 101 executes a normal symbol process for determining whether or not the random number acquired in the gate switch process in step S3 matches a predetermined hit random number. Then, the CPU 101 stops and displays the normal symbol indicating the determination result after the normal symbol is variably displayed on the normal symbol display 4e. Specifically, the CPU 101 sets the normal symbol change time to be stopped and displayed after the normal symbol is variably displayed to 10 seconds in the non-time-short state and to 0.5 seconds in the time-short state. Further, the CPU 101 sets the probability that the normal symbol displayed on the normal symbol display 4e becomes a predetermined winning symbol (that is, the winning probability of the normal symbol lottery) is set to a low probability (1/10) in the non-short-time state. In the short-time state, the probability is increased to a high probability (10/10).

  Next, in step S6, when it is determined that the special symbol lottery is won in the special symbol processing in step S4 (when the big win is made), the CPU 101 controls the big prize opening / closing unit 115 to control the big prize opening 23. A predetermined opening / closing operation (for example, the grand prize opening 23 is changed from the closed state to the open state, and the first round game (hereinafter may be simply referred to as “R”) is started. When 10 game balls are won or when the opening time has elapsed 29.5 seconds, an open / close operation for closing the big prize opening 23 from the open state to the closed state is performed a predetermined number of times, and various commands relating to so-called big hit game effects, etc. Is performed to transmit to the effect control unit 400. By this processing, the big hit game (special game) is progressed, and the player can acquire a large amount of prize balls. In addition, the CPU 101 receives a round start notification command for notifying the round start (round game start) in the jackpot game, a round end notification command for notifying the round end (round game end), and the effect control unit 400 of the jackpot game. An ending command for instructing execution of the ending effect is set in the RAM 103.

  Next, in step S7, the CPU 101 performs electric driving when the normal symbol displayed on the normal symbol display 4e by the normal symbol processing in step S5 is a predetermined winning symbol (that is, when the normal symbol lottery is won). An electric tulip process for operating the tulip 27 is executed. At that time, the CPU 101 controls the opening of the electric tulip 27 for a very short period (once for 0.10 seconds) in the non-electric support state, and the electric tulip 27 for a long period (three times for 2.00 seconds) in the electric support state. Open control. In addition, when the electric tulip 27 is controlled to be in the open state, a game ball can be won at the second start port 22, and when the game ball wins at the second start port 22, a second special symbol lottery is performed. Will be.

  Next, in step S <b> 8, the CPU 101 executes prize ball processing for managing the number of winning game balls and controlling the payout of prize balls according to the prize.

  Next, in step S9, the CPU 101 executes various commands and effects set in the RAM 103 by the start opening switch process in step S2, the special symbol process in step S4, the big winning opening process in step S6, the prize ball process in step S8, and the like. Output processing for outputting information necessary for the production control unit 400 or the payout control unit 300 is executed. The CPU 101 notifies each winning opening that a gaming ball has won each time the gaming ball wins the first starting opening 21, the second starting opening 22, the big winning opening 23, and the normal winning opening 24. Are set in the RAM 103, and the winning command is output to the effect control unit 400 or the payout control unit 300.

[Start-up switch processing]
FIG. 9 is an example of a detailed flowchart of the start port switch process in step S2 of FIG. Hereinafter, the start port switch process in step S2 of FIG. 8 will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, in step S201, the CPU 101 of the main control unit 100 wins a game ball in the first start port 21 based on the presence or absence of an output signal from the first start port switch 111a, and the first start port switch 111a is turned on. It is determined whether or not. If the determination in step S201 is YES, the process proceeds to step S202. If the determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S207.

  In step S 202, the CPU 101 reads the upper limit value Umax 1 (“4” in the present embodiment) of the first special symbol lottery number from the ROM 102, and the first special symbol lottery number U 1 stored in the RAM 103 is the upper limit value. It is determined whether or not the value is less than Umax1. If the determination in step S202 is YES, the process proceeds to step S203, and if this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S207.

  In step S <b> 203, the CPU 101 updates the value of the holding number U <b> 1 stored in the RAM 103 to a value obtained by adding one. Further, the CPU 101 sets a winning command in the RAM 103 for notifying the effect control unit 400 that a game ball has won the first starting port 21. This winning command is transmitted to the effect control unit 400 by the output process in step S9 of FIG. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S204.

  In step S204, the CPU 101 acquires a set of random numbers (big hit random number, symbol random number, reach random number, and variation pattern random number) used for the first special symbol lottery and the like, and each set of random numbers acquired (game information) Are stored in the RAM 103 in chronological order. It should be noted that each time the value of the first special symbol lottery holding number U1 is decremented by 1 in the process of step S409 of FIG. 10 to be described later, the random number set stored in the RAM 103 is one set in order from the earliest storage time. Deleted one by one. From this, for example, when the value of the number of holdings U1 of the first special symbol lottery is “3”, the last three random number sets acquired by the process of the last three steps S204 are stored in the RAM 103 in time series order. It will be stored. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S205.

  In step S205, the CPU 101 performs a preliminary determination process. Specifically, the CPU 101 acquires a random number set such as a big hit random number obtained in the latest processing of step S204 and stored in the RAM 103 (that is, a random number set such as a big hit random number for the first special symbol lottery stored most recently. ) And whether or not the result of the first special symbol lottery using the jackpot random number is a jackpot based on whether or not the jackpot random number or the like matches a predetermined value or the like stored in the ROM 102, reach It is determined in advance whether or not to execute the production. That is, the determination necessary for executing the pre-reading notice effect and the hold change notice effect is made in advance prior to the processing in steps S407 and S408 of FIG. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S206.

  In step S <b> 206, the CPU 101 sets a first hold number increase command for notifying that the hold number of the first special symbol lottery has increased by 1 in the RAM 103. Here, the first pending number increase command includes information (hereinafter referred to as “preliminary determination information”) indicating the result of the preliminary determination performed in the process of step S205. In addition, the 1st reservation number increase command containing this prior determination information is output by the output process of step S9 of FIG. 8, and the lottery result with respect to the 1st special symbol lottery hold is the symbol in the 1st special symbol lottery. The main control unit 100 notifies the effect control unit 400 before the change starts. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S207.

  In step S207, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the game ball has won the second start port 22 and the second start port switch 111b is turned on based on the presence / absence of an output signal from the second start port switch 111b. To do. If the determination in step S207 is YES, the process proceeds to step S208, and if this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S3 (gate switch process) in FIG.

  In step S <b> 208, the CPU 101 reads the upper limit value Umax <b> 2 of the second special symbol lottery holding number from the ROM 102 (“4” in the present embodiment), and the second special symbol lottery holding number U <b> 2 stored in the RAM 103 is the upper limit. It is determined whether or not the value is less than Umax2. If the determination in step S208 is yes, the process proceeds to step S209. If the determination is no, the process proceeds to step S3 (gate switch process) in FIG.

  In step S209, the CPU 101 updates the value of the holding number U2 stored in the RAM 103 to a value obtained by adding 1. Further, the CPU 101 sets a winning command in the RAM 103 for notifying the effect control unit 400 that a game ball has won the second starting port 22. This winning command is transmitted to the effect control unit 400 by the output process in step S9 of FIG. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S210.

  In step S210, the CPU 101 obtains a set of random numbers (big hit random number, symbol random number, reach random number, and variation pattern random number) used for the second special symbol lottery, etc. They are stored in the RAM 103 in order. Each time the value of the second special symbol lottery holding number U2 is decremented by 1 in the process of step S409 of FIG. 10 to be described later, the random number set stored in the RAM 103 is one set in order from the earliest storage time. Deleted one by one. For this reason, for example, when the value of the holding number U2 of the second special symbol lottery is “3”, the last three random number sets acquired by the processing of the last three steps S210 are stored in the RAM 103 in time series order. It will be stored. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S211.

  In step S211, the CPU 101 performs a preliminary determination process. Specifically, the CPU 101 acquires a random number set such as a big hit random number acquired in the process of the latest step S210 and stored in the RAM 103 (that is, a random number set such as a big hit random number for the second special symbol lottery stored most recently. ) And whether or not the result of the second special symbol lottery using the jackpot random number is a jackpot based on whether or not the jackpot random number or the like matches a predetermined value or the like stored in the ROM 102, reach It is determined in advance whether or not to execute the production. That is, the determination necessary for executing the pre-reading notice effect and the hold change notice effect is made in advance prior to the processing in steps S407 and S408 of FIG. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S212.

  In step S <b> 212, the CPU 101 sets a second hold number increase command for notifying that the hold number of the second special symbol lottery has increased by 1 in the RAM 103. Here, the second pending number increase command includes information (preliminary determination information) indicating the result of the preliminary determination performed in the process of step S211. It should be noted that the second reserved number increase command including this pre-determination information is output by the output process of step S9 in FIG. 8, so that the lottery result for the second special symbol lottery is the symbol in the second special symbol lottery. The main control unit 100 notifies the effect control unit 400 before the change starts. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S3 (gate switch process) in FIG.

[Special symbol processing]
FIG. 10 is an example of a detailed flowchart of the special symbol process in step S4 of FIG. Below, with reference to FIG. 10, the special symbol process in step S4 of FIG. 8 is demonstrated.

  First, in step S401, the CPU 101 of the main control unit 100 determines that the current state of the gaming machine 1 is a big hit game (a big hit game) based on information stored in the RAM 103 (typically information based on a big hit game flag). State). That is, it is determined whether or not the big hit game (special game) that is executed when the special symbol lottery is won. If the determination in step S401 is YES, the process proceeds to step S5 (normal symbol process) in FIG. 8, and if this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S402.

  In step S402, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the special symbol change display is being performed by the first special symbol display 4a or the second special symbol display 4b. Here, the special symbol variation display means that the special symbol has a predetermined variation time (variation time determined by a variation pattern selected by a variation pattern selection process in step S408 described later) after a variation display, This means that the determination symbol indicating the determination result of the symbol lottery is within the entire period during which a predetermined fixed time (for example, a predetermined 0.5 second) is stopped and displayed. Therefore, in other words, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the special symbol is being changed or the determination symbol is being stopped. If the determination in step S402 is yes, the process proceeds to step S411. If the determination is no, the process proceeds to step S403.

  In step S403, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the holding number U2 stored in the RAM 103 is 1 or more (that is, whether or not the second special symbol lottery is held). If the determination in step S403 is YES, the process proceeds to step S404. If the determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S405.

  In step S404, the CPU 101 reads the random number set of the second special symbol lottery stored in the RAM 103 and acquired and stored in step S210 of FIG. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S407.

  On the other hand, in step S405, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the holding number U1 stored in the RAM 103 is 1 or more (that is, whether or not the first special symbol lottery is held). If the determination in step S405 is YES, the process proceeds to step S406. If this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S415 assuming that there is no special symbol lottery to be executed.

  In step S406, the CPU 101 reads out the random number set of the first special symbol lottery stored in the RAM 103 and acquired in step S204 of FIG. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S407.

  The second special symbol lottery is executed in preference to the first special symbol lottery by the processing of steps S403 to S406 described above.

  In step S407, the CPU 101 executes a big hit determination process for determining whether the result of the special symbol lottery is a big hit or a loss. Specifically, when executing the process of step S407 following the process of step S404, the CPU 101 matches the jackpot random number read from the RAM 103 in the process of step S404 with the jackpot winning value stored in the ROM 102. Whether the result of the second special symbol lottery is a big hit or a loss is determined based on whether or not to do so. On the other hand, when executing the process of step S407 following the process of step S406, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the jackpot random number read from the RAM 103 in the process of step S406 matches the jackpot winning value stored in the ROM 102. Based on this, it is determined whether the result of the first special symbol lottery is a big hit or a loss. When the result of the special symbol lottery is determined to be lost, the CPU 101 sets a lost symbol indicating that the special symbol lottery has been lost in the RAM 103 as a special symbol stop symbol in the setting information. On the other hand, when the CPU 101 determines that the result of the special symbol lottery is a big hit, which of the predetermined values stored in the ROM 102 matches the symbol random number read from the RAM 103 together with the big hit random number used for this determination? Based on this, the type of jackpot of this time is determined. In the present embodiment, it is assumed that the second special symbol lottery has a larger jackpot winning ratio with a relatively large profit for the player than the first special symbol lottery. For example, in the second special symbol lottery, the winning ratio of the big hit that can acquire more game balls than the first special symbol lottery is higher. Then, the CPU 101 sets, in the RAM 103, information on the jackpot symbol representing the jackpot and the type of jackpot as information on the stop symbol of the special symbol in the setting information. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S408.

[Variation pattern selection processing]
In step S408, the CPU 101 executes variation pattern selection processing. Specifically, in step S408, the CPU 101 uses the variation pattern determination tables HT1-1 and HT1-2 shown in FIG. 11 and FIG. 12 in the non-short-time state (normal game state), and uses the short-time state (probability game). State or short-time gaming state), the variation pattern is determined (selected) for each special symbol lottery using the variation pattern determination tables HT2-1 and HT2-2 shown in FIGS. Here, this variation pattern is a special symbol variation time which is a time from when the special symbol is variably displayed on the display 4 until it is stopped and displayed, and this special symbol variation time is synchronized with the execution time of the notification effect. It is the same time as the execution time of the notification effect. Hereinafter, the variation pattern determination tables HT1-1, HT1-2, HT2-1, and HT2-2 may be simply referred to as HT1-1, HT1-2, HT2-1, and HT2-2.

  First, a case where a variation pattern is selected using HT1-1 and HT1-2 shown in FIGS. 11 and 12 in a non-time-short state (normal game state) will be described. FIG. 11 is a table used for determining the variation pattern when the first special symbol lottery is executed in the process of step S407 in the non-time-saving state (normal game state). FIG. 12 is a table used for determining the variation pattern when the second special symbol lottery is executed in the process of step S407 in the non-time-short state (normal game state).

[Non-time-short state / variation pattern selection process in the first special symbol lottery]
Hereinafter, the determination of the variation pattern when the first special symbol lottery is executed in the process of step S407 in the non-short-time state (normal game state) will be described with reference to FIG.

  In step S408, when the CPU 101 determines in the jackpot determination process of step S407 that the result of the first special symbol lottery is a jackpot, the CPU 101 determines a variation pattern (special symbol variation time) based on the variation pattern random number. Specifically, the CPU 101 determines that the variation pattern random number (any one of 0 to 299) read from the RAM 103 together with the big hit random number used in the big hit determination process in step S407 is the “big hit” of HT1-1. The variation pattern (special symbol variation time) is determined based on which of the random number values assigned to each variation pattern of the portion of (). For example, when the variation pattern random number read from the RAM 103 together with the big hit random number used in the big hit determination process in step S407 is “78”, the CPU 101 sets the fluctuation pattern “90.03” of the “big hit” portion of HT1-1. Since it is included in the random number values “75 to 124” assigned to “second”, “90.03 seconds” is determined as the variation pattern. Here, as indicated by HT1-1, the fluctuation pattern “15.01 seconds”, “40.01 seconds”, “40.02 seconds”, “40.03 seconds”, “90. “01 seconds”, “90.02 seconds”, “90.03 seconds”, “90.04 seconds”, and “90.05 seconds” indicate the types of effect patterns of the notification effect “per reach” and “third SP”, respectively. "Per hit", "per second SP", "per first SP", "per fifth SPSP", "per fourth SPSP", "per third SPSP", "per second SPSP", and "per first SPSP". In addition, “per reach” is a type that hits big after reaching reach, “per first SP” to “per third SP” is a type that hits big after finally developing to SP reach, “per first SPSP” The “per 5th SPSP” is a type that hits big after finally developing to SPSP reach.

  Reach (reach effect) is specified in combination with other symbols that have already been stopped when a decorative symbol that is stopped last among a plurality of decorative symbols is stopped and displayed in a specific symbol. It is an effect that expects to win a big hit by matching the pattern pattern of, and typically, the decorative pattern on the right side and the left side are stopped at the same pattern (for example, 7), This is an effect that is variably displayed with the expectation that the decorative symbol stops at the same symbol (for example, 7) (that is, it becomes a doublet 777). The SP reach is generally referred to as super reach or special reach, and is an effect that further expects to win more than reach, for example, an effect of a moving image in which a hero character plays a mini game. In addition, SPSP reach is generally called super super reach or special special reach, and is an effect that further expects a big hit than SP reach production. For example, it is a production of a moving image in which a hero character fights against an enemy character. is there.

  In step S408, if the CPU 101 determines that the result of the first special symbol lottery is lost in the jackpot determination process in step S407, the number of first special symbol lottery (U1), the reach random number, and the fluctuation A variation pattern (special symbol variation time) is determined based on the pattern random number.

  Specifically, the CPU 101 determines the reach random number (0) read from the RAM 103 together with the jackpot random number used in the jackpot determination process in step S407 when the number of the first special symbol lottery is “1” or “2”. Or any one of 99 to 99) is included in the reach random number value range “0 to 69” of the retained number “1, 2” of the “losing” of HT1-1. 99 ”is determined.

  Then, when the read reach random number is included in the reach random number value range “0 to 69”, the CPU 101 reads the fluctuation pattern random number (0) read from the RAM 103 together with the big hit random number used in the big hit determination process in step S407. ˜299) is included in the fluctuation pattern random value range “0-59” or in the fluctuation pattern random value range “60-299”. Then, when the fluctuation pattern random number is included in the fluctuation pattern random value range “0 to 59”, the CPU 101 determines “8.00 seconds” as the fluctuation pattern, and the fluctuation pattern random number is changed to the fluctuation pattern random value range “ In the case of “60 to 299”, “13.50 seconds” is determined as the variation pattern. Here, as indicated by HT1-1, the variation patterns “8.00 seconds” and “13.50 seconds” both correspond to the effect pattern type “immediately lost”. “Immediately lost” is a type of production pattern that immediately loses without reaching reach.

  On the other hand, when the read reach random number is included in the reach random number value range “70 to 99”, the CPU 101 reads the variation pattern random number (0) read from the RAM 103 together with the big hit random number used in the big hit determination process in step S407. ˜299) is included in the variation pattern random value range assigned to each variation pattern in the above reach random value range “70 to 99” of HT1-1. Then, the variation pattern (special symbol variation time) is determined. For example, when the variation pattern random number read from the RAM 103 together with the jackpot random number used in the jackpot determination process in step S407 is “260”, the CPU 101 determines the variation pattern random value assigned to the variation pattern “40.05 seconds”. Since it is included in the range “256 to 271”, “40.05 seconds” is determined as the variation pattern. Here, as indicated by HT1-1, the fluctuation patterns “15.02 seconds”, “40.04 seconds”, “40.05 seconds” of the above-described reach random number value range “70 to 99” of HT1-1. ”,“ 40.06 seconds ”,“ 90.06 seconds ”,“ 90.07 seconds ”,“ 90.08 seconds ”,“ 90.09 seconds ”, and“ 90.10 seconds ” Production pattern types “Leach Loss”, “3rd SP Loss”, “2nd SP Loss”, “1st SP Loss”, “5th SPSP Loss”, “4th SPSP Loss”, “3rd SPSP Loss”, “2nd SPSP Loss” and This corresponds to “first SPSP loss”. Further, “Leach Loss” is a type that loses after the reach is established, and “First SP Loss” to “3rd SP Loss” are types that finally lose after being developed into SP Reach, and “First SPSP Loss” to “ “Fifth SPSP Loss” is a type that loses after finally developing into SPSP reach.

  In addition, when the number of the first special symbol lottery is “3”, the CPU 101 basically performs the variation pattern in the same manner as when the number of the first special symbol lottery is “1” or “2”. To decide. However, when the number of holdings of the first special symbol lottery is “3”, as shown in HT1-1, the CPU 101 has the number of holdings of the first special symbol lottery being “1” or “2”. On the other hand, the reach random value range “0-69” is replaced with “0-79”, the reach random value range “70-99” is replaced with “80-99”, and the fluctuation pattern “8.00 seconds”. The variable pattern random value range “0 to 59” assigned to “0” to “209” is replaced with “0 to 209”, and the fluctuation pattern random value range “60 to 299” assigned to the fluctuation pattern “13.50 seconds” is changed to “210 to 299”. The variation pattern is determined by the random value range replaced with “”.

  In addition, when the number of holds for the first special symbol lottery is “4”, the CPU 101 basically performs the variation pattern similarly to the case where the number of holds for the first special symbol lottery is “1” or “2”. To decide. However, when the number of the first special symbol lottery is “4”, the CPU 101, as shown in HT1-1, when the number of the first special symbol lottery is “1” or “2”. On the other hand, the reach random value range “0-69” is replaced with “0-84”, the reach random value range “70-99” is replaced with “85-99”, and the fluctuation pattern “8.00 seconds” The variable pattern random value range “0 to 59” allocated to the variable pattern is replaced with “210 to 269”, and the random pattern value range “60 to 299” allocated to the variable pattern “13.50 seconds” is converted to “270 to 299”. In addition, according to the random value range of the content to which the variation pattern “3.00 seconds” to which the variation pattern random value range “0 to 209” is assigned in correspondence with the production pattern type “immediately lost” is added, Deciding the fluctuation pattern To.

  As described above with reference to the variation pattern determination table HT1-1 shown in FIG. 11, when the first special symbol lottery is lost in the non-time-saving state (normal game state), the number of first special symbol lottery holds The smaller the variation is, the easier it is to select the variation pattern with reach, and when the variation pattern without reach is selected, the smaller the number of the first special symbol lottery is, the easier the variation pattern is selected.

[Big hit reliability]
Here, the jackpot reliability (expectation for jackpot) will be described. An effect with a high jackpot reliability is an effect that is highly likely to be notified of a big hit when the effect is executed, and an effect with a low jackpot reliability is a notification of a big hit when the effect is executed. It is a production that is unlikely to be performed. Hereinafter, it demonstrates concretely using HT1-1 shown in FIG. As can be seen from the “big hit” portion of HT1-1, in the case of big hit, “per reach”, “per third SP”, “per second SP”, “per first SP”, “per fifth SPSP”, “ The variation pattern random value range increases in the order of “per fourth SPSP”, “per third SPSP”, “per second SPSP”, and “per first SPSP” (partially the same). On the other hand, as can be seen from the “losing” portion of HT1-1, in the case of losing, “reach losing”, “third SP losing”, “second SP losing”, “first SP losing”, “fifth SPSP losing”. , The variation pattern random value range becomes smaller in the order of “fourth SPSP loss”, “third SPSP loss”, “second SPSP loss”, “first SPSP loss” (partially the same). As can be seen from the above, the performance that is easy to execute in the case of a big hit and difficult to execute in the case of a loss is high in the reliability of the big hit, while the effect that is difficult to execute in the case of big hit and is easy to be executed in the case of a loss has a big hit reliability Low. That is, “reach effect”, “third SP reach effect”, “second SP reach effect”, “first SP reach effect”, “fifth SPSP reach effect”, “fourth SPSP reach effect”, “third SPSP reach effect”, “ The jackpot reliability increases in the order of “second SPSP reach production” and “first SPSP reach production”.

[Non-time-short state / variation pattern selection process in the second special symbol lottery]
Hereinafter, the determination of the variation pattern when the second special symbol lottery is executed in the process of step S407 in the non-short-time state (normal game state) will be described with reference to FIG. In step S408, the CPU 101 determines a variation pattern by performing basically the same processing as the variation pattern determination processing described with reference to FIG. However, the CPU 101 performs processing for the first special symbol lottery using HT1-1 in the variation pattern determination processing described with reference to FIG. 11, whereas in the variation pattern determination processing illustrated in FIG. It is different in that processing is performed on the second special symbol lottery using HT1-2 shown in FIG. Here, HT1-2 shown in FIG. 12 differs from HT1-1 shown in FIG. 11 in that “the number of first special symbol lottery hold” is replaced with “the number of second special symbol lottery hold”. Only different. In other words, while the variation pattern determination process described with reference to FIG. 11 takes into account the number of first special symbol lottery holds, the variation pattern determination process takes into account the number of second special symbol lottery reservations. The It should be noted that in the non-time-saving state, since it is difficult for a game ball to win the second starting port 22, it is rare (rare) to execute the second special symbol lottery. For this reason, when the second special symbol lottery is executed in the non-time-short state, in order to suggest this rare feeling, the fluctuation pattern is longer than when the first special symbol lottery is executed in the non-time-short state. May be easily selected. Specifically, for example, in HT1-2, the reach random number value range that is determined to be reachable in each portion of the “losing” hold number “1, 2,” “3”, “4” is HT1. By setting it to be larger than the corresponding portion of −1, it is possible that the reach is more easily executed than HT1-1, and as a result, a long-time variation pattern may be easily selected.

[Time-short state / variation pattern selection process in the first special symbol lottery]
Hereinafter, the determination of the variation pattern when the first special symbol lottery is executed in the process of step S407 in the time-saving state (probability variation gaming state or time-saving gaming state) will be described using FIG. In step S408, the CPU 101 determines a variation pattern by performing basically the same processing as the variation pattern determination processing described with reference to FIG. However, the CPU 101 performed processing for the first special symbol lottery using HT1-1 in the variation pattern determination processing described with reference to FIG. 11, whereas in the variation pattern determination processing illustrated in FIG. It differs by the point which processes with respect to a 1st special symbol lottery using HT2-1 shown. Here, HT2-1 shown in FIG. 13 is related to the HT1-1 shown in FIG. 11 in relation to the holding number of the first special symbol lottery when “no reach” is selected by “reach random number” in “losing”. The difference is that the variation pattern “13.50 seconds” (corresponding to immediate loss) is selected.

[Time-short state / variation pattern selection process in the second special symbol lottery]
Hereinafter, the determination of the variation pattern when the second special symbol lottery is executed in the process of step S407 in the time-saving state (probability variation gaming state or time-saving gaming state) will be described using FIG. In step S408, the CPU 101 determines a variation pattern by performing basically the same processing as the variation pattern determination processing described with reference to FIG. However, the CPU 101 performed processing for the first special symbol lottery using HT1-1 in the variation pattern determination processing described with reference to FIG. 11, whereas in the variation pattern determination processing illustrated in FIG. It is different in that processing is performed for the second special symbol lottery using HT2-2 shown in FIG. Here, as shown in FIG. 14, HT2-2 replaces HT1-1 shown in FIG. 11 with “the number of first special symbol lottery hold” replaced with “the number of second special symbol lottery hold”. ing. In other words, while the variation pattern determination process described with reference to FIG. 11 takes into account the number of first special symbol lottery holds, the variation pattern determination process takes into account the number of second special symbol lottery reservations. The Further, as shown in FIG. 14, in HT2-2, when no reach is selected by the reach random number in the case of the hold number “1, 2” of the second special symbol lottery in “losing”, the variation pattern is uniformly changed. “13.50 seconds” is determined. Further, as shown in FIG. 14, in HT2-2, when no reach is selected by the reach random number in the case of the hold number “3, 4” of the second special symbol lottery in “losing”, the fluctuation pattern random value The variation pattern “2.00 seconds” is determined in the range “0 to 239”, the variation pattern “4.00 seconds” is determined in the variation pattern random value range “240 to 269”, and the variation pattern random value range “270 to 270”. In “299”, the fluctuation pattern “10.00 seconds” is determined.

  Here, as described in the processing in steps S403 to S406, in this embodiment, the second special symbol lottery hold is digested in preference to the first special symbol lottery hold. Further, in the short time state (probability game state or short time game state), as described in the processing in steps S5 and S7 of FIG. Frequently wins, the second special symbol lottery is executed frequently and continuously. Further, as described in the processing in step S407, the second special symbol lottery by winning the game ball to the second starting port 22 is more than the first special symbol lottery by winning the game ball to the first starting port 21. However, the player's profit is great. In other words, if the first special symbol lottery is executed in the short time state, it can be said that it is disadvantageous for the player. In the present embodiment, as described above using HT2-2 in FIG. 14, in the short-time state, when the number of second special symbol lottery holds is 3 or 4 and there is no reach, a short time fluctuation pattern (2.00 seconds, 4.00 seconds) to make it easier to select, and the second special symbol lottery hold will be digested at high speed, while playing a game with a sense of speed, while the second special symbol lottery When the number of holds is 1 or 2 and there is no reach, a long-time fluctuation pattern (13.50 seconds) is always selected to control the first special symbol lottery that is relatively unfavorable to the player. Furthermore, in the present embodiment, as described above with reference to HT2-1 in FIG. 13, in the short-time state, even if the first special symbol lottery that is relatively disadvantageous to the player is executed, the first special symbol In all cases where the number of symbols in the lottery is 1 to 4, a long-term variation pattern (13.50 seconds) must be selected if there is no reach, and a game ball wins the second starting port 22 and the player The second special symbol lottery, which is relatively advantageous, is controlled so as to earn time.

  Information on the variation pattern determined in step S408 as described above (that is, it can be said that the execution time of the notification effect: the information about the type of the effect pattern of the notification effect) is set in the RAM 103 as setting information. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S409.

  In step S409, the CPU 101 generates a notification effect start command including the setting information set by the jackpot determination process in step S407 and the setting information set by the variation pattern selection process in step S408, and sets the notification effect start command in the RAM 103. Here, the notification effect start command is a command for instructing the effect control unit 400 to start the notification effect by the image display unit 6, the speaker 35, and the like. In addition, the setting information included in the notification effect start command includes information indicating which of the first special symbol lottery and the second special symbol lottery has been executed, and information on the jackpot symbol indicating the type of jackpot. Further, the CPU 101 sets a gaming state notification command indicating the current gaming state (for example, a probable variation gaming state) in the RAM 103. The notification effect start command and the gaming state notification command described above are transmitted to the effect control unit 400 by the output process in step S9 of FIG. Further, when executing the process of step S409 following the process of step S404, the CPU 101 deletes the random number set of the second special symbol lottery read by the process of step S404 from the RAM 103 and stores it in the RAM 103. Update the hold count U2 to a value obtained by subtracting 1. Further, when executing the process of step S409 following the process of step S406, the CPU 101 deletes the random number set of the first special symbol lottery read by the process of step S406 from the RAM 103 and stores it in the RAM 103. Update the hold number U1 to a value obtained by subtracting 1. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S410.

  In step S410, the CPU 101 changes the special symbol by the first special symbol display 4a or the second special symbol display 4b based on the setting information included in the notification effect start command set in the process of step S409. Start displaying. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S411.

  In step S411, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the special symbol variation time indicated by the variation pattern set in the variation pattern selection process in step S408 has elapsed since the start of the special symbol variation display in step S410. If the determination in step S411 is YES, the process proceeds to step S412. If the determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S5 (normal symbol processing) in FIG.

  In step S <b> 412, the CPU 101 sets a notification effect stop command (design confirmation command) instructing the end of the notification effect by the image display unit 6 or the like in the RAM 103. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S413. Note that the notification effect stop command set in step S412 is transmitted to the effect control unit 400 by the output process in step S9 of FIG.

  In step S413, the CPU 101 ends the special symbol variation display by the first special symbol display 4a or the second special symbol display 4b started in the process of step S410. When the special symbol variation display is terminated by the processing of step S413, the determination symbol indicating the determination result of the special symbol lottery is stopped and displayed for a predetermined fixed time (for example, 0.5 seconds). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S414.

  In step S414, the CPU 101 executes a stop process. Specifically, when the CPU 101 determines that the big hit is determined in step S407, the information stored in the RAM 103 (typically information based on a flag) is in the big hit game (the big hit game state). And an opening command for instructing the start of the big hit game effect is set in the RAM 103. This opening command is transmitted to the effect control unit 400 by the output process of step S9 in FIG. 8 when a predetermined time (0.5 seconds) has elapsed since the stop display of the special symbol was started in the process of step S413. The jackpot game production is started.

  In step S415, the CPU 101 determines whether or not a customer waiting command and a gaming state notification command indicating the current gaming state have already been transmitted in step S416 (described later). Here, the customer waiting command is the time when the specified fixed time (0.5 seconds) has elapsed since the processing in step S414 was started (in other words, the special symbol variation display was terminated in the processing in step S413). This is a command that is sent when no special game is played (no special game has started) and there is no special symbol lottery pending at 0.5 seconds from This is a command for notifying that the notification effect for notifying the lottery result of the symbol lottery has not been executed (hereinafter sometimes referred to as a customer waiting state). If the determination in step S415 is YES, the process proceeds to step S5 (normal symbol process) in FIG. 8, and if this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S416.

  In step S <b> 416, the CPU 101 sets a customer waiting command and a gaming state notification command in the RAM 103. The customer waiting command and the gaming state notification command are transmitted to the effect control unit 400 by the output process in step S9 of FIG. 8, and a predetermined stop effect (for example, an effect of displaying a decorative symbol stop) is started based on the customer waiting command. Is done. When a predetermined time (for example, 90 seconds) elapses after the stop effect described above is started, the customer waiting effect is started. Here, the customer waiting effect is, for example, an effect in which a video related to the content (animation, story, etc.) that is the subject of the gaming machine 1 is displayed on the image display unit 6, for example, a predetermined effect ( For example, the image display unit 6 displays a part of the reach effect). Thereafter, the processing moves to step S5 (normal symbol processing) in FIG.

  Above, description of the process of the main control part 100 demonstrated using FIGS. 5-14 is complete | finished.

[Timer interrupt processing by production control unit]
15 to 22 are flowcharts showing an example of timer interruption processing performed by the effect control unit 400, or a diagram for supplementary explanation thereof. Below, with reference to FIGS. 15-22, the timer interruption process performed in the production | presentation control part 400 is demonstrated. The effect control unit 400 repeatedly executes a series of processes shown in FIG. 15 at regular intervals (for example, 4 milliseconds) during a normal operation except for special cases such as when the power is turned on or when the power is turned off. Note that the processing performed by the effect control unit 400 is executed based on a program stored in the ROM 402.

  First, in step S11 of FIG. 15, the CPU 401 receives various commands output from the main control unit 100 by the output process of step S9 of FIG. 8, and sets and sets the effect content according to the received command. A command reception process for setting various commands in the RAM 403 to instruct the image sound control unit 500 or the like to execute the effect of the effect content is executed. The command reception process will be described in detail later with reference to FIGS.

  Next, in step S12, the CPU 401 executes an output process for outputting various commands set in the RAM 403 in the process of step S11 to the image sound control unit 500 or the like. By this process, various effects determined to be executed in the process of step S11 are executed by the image display unit 6, the speaker 35, the panel lamp 8, and the like by the execution control of the image sound control unit 500 and the like.

  Each time the timer interrupt process is executed, the CPU 401 performs a random number update process for updating various effect random numbers used for determining the effect. In this random number update process, a loop counter is typically used as in the random number update process in step S1 of FIG. 8, and the count value (updated random number value) is set to the maximum value (for example, 99). After reaching, it returns to 0 again (that is, it circulates). Also, in this random number update process, each effect random number counter updates the initial value (the value that is the starting point of circulation) at random once it circulates. As a result, the counter value (count value) can be prevented from synchronizing between these effect random numbers.

[Command reception processing]
16 and 17 are examples of detailed flowcharts of the command reception process in step S11 of FIG. Hereinafter, the command reception process in step S11 in FIG. 15 will be described with reference to FIGS.

  First, in step S111 in FIG. 16, the CPU 401 of the effect control unit 400 issues a hold increase command (first hold number increase command or second hold number increase command; see steps S206 and S212 in FIG. 9) from the main control unit 100. It is determined whether or not it has been received. If the determination in step S111 is YES, the process proceeds to step S112. If the determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S114.

  In step S112, the CPU 401 performs a prefetch notice effect setting process. Specifically, first, when the CPU 401 receives the first reservation number increase command, the CPU 401 causes the RAM 403 to accumulate and store one piece of data (holding data) indicating the holding of the first special symbol lottery in chronological order. When the second hold number increase command is received, the RAM 403 stores one piece of data (hold data) indicating the hold of the second special symbol lottery in time series order. At that time, the CPU 401 extracts pre-determination information included in the pending number increase command, includes it in the above-described pending data, and stores it in the RAM 403. At this time, the CPU 401 determines by lottery or the like whether or not to execute the pre-reading notice effect based on the prior determination information stored in the RAM 403 most recently (that is, included in the latest holding data). For example, the CPU 401 determines that the prior determination information indicates “big hit”, “losing” and “reach effect” (reach effect), or “losing” and “reach effect”. In each of the cases indicating “None” (no reach reach), a prefetch random number is acquired, and when the prefetch random number matches a predetermined prefetch winning value, it is determined to perform the prefetch notice effect. It should be noted that different numbers may be set for the pre-reading winning values depending on whether the pre-determination information is “big hit”, “losing with reach”, or “losing without reach”. Specifically, by setting the number of prefetch winning values in the case of “big hit” larger than the number of prefetching winning values in the case of “losing with reach”, a prefetching notice effect is easily performed in the case of “big hit”. It may be a thing. If it is determined to execute the pre-reading notice effect, the CPU 401 performs a pre-reading notice to be executed by lottery or the like from a number of pre-reading notice effect patterns that satisfy the conditions of the prior determination information (such as the condition of whether or not a big hit). Set the contents of the production. That is, as the pre-reading notice effect, what kind of notice effect is performed in each notification effect is set. Note that the pre-reading notice effect is a notice effect that suggests the possibility of a big hit over a plurality of notification effects, for example. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S113.

  In step S113, the CPU 401 instructs the image sound control unit 500 according to the received hold number increase command (the first hold number increase command or the second hold number increase command), and displays a special symbol lottery on the image display unit 6. Additional display processing of the reserved image indicating the hold of the image, and the reserved image display processing for changing the reserved image to the pre-read display mode. Note that an instruction to the image sound control unit 500 is performed by setting a command in the RAM 403. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S114.

  In step S114, the CPU 401 determines whether or not the notification effect start command and the gaming state notification command set in step S409 of FIG. 10 have been received. If the determination in step S114 is YES, the process proceeds to step S115, and if this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S116.

  In step S115, the CPU 401 sets the effect content of the notification effect by the image display unit 6 or the like according to the notification effect start command received in the process of step S114, and executes the notification effect of the set content. A notification effect setting process for instructing and starting 500 or the like is performed. Here, the notification effect (variation effect) is an effect that is executed in the image display unit 6 or the like according to the variation display of the special symbol and suggests the result of the special symbol lottery. For example, the decorative symbol is variably displayed. This is an effect in which the result of the special symbol lottery is notified when the decorative symbol that is variably displayed is stopped and displayed. Note that an instruction to the image sound control unit 500 or the like is performed by setting a command in the RAM 403. This notification effect setting process will be described later in detail with reference to FIG. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S116.

  In step S116, the CPU 401 determines whether or not the notification effect stop command set in the process of step S412 in FIG. 10 has been received. If the determination in step S116 is YES, the process proceeds to step S117. If this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S120 in FIG.

  In step S117, the CPU 401 instructs the image sound control unit 500 or the like to end the notification effect started to be executed in the process of step S115, and finally stops all the decorative symbols that have been variably displayed (confirmed). Stop the display) and inform the effect of the special symbol lottery. Note that an instruction to the image sound control unit 500 or the like is performed by setting a command in the RAM 403. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S120 in FIG.

  In step S120 in FIG. 17, the CPU 401 determines whether or not the opening command set in the stopping process in step S414 in FIG. 10 has been received. If the determination in step S120 is yes, the process proceeds to step S121. If the determination is no, the process proceeds to step S122.

  In step S121, the CPU 401 issues an opening effect instruction. Specifically, the CPU 401 instructs the image sound control unit 500 or the like to start the opening effect of the big hit game effect. Note that an instruction to the image sound control unit 500 or the like is performed by setting a command in the RAM 403. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S122.

  In step S122, the CPU 401 determines whether or not the round start notification command set in the process of step S6 in FIG. 8 has been received. If the determination in step S122 is YES, the process proceeds to step S123, and if this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S124.

  In step S123, the CPU 401 issues a round effect start instruction. Specifically, the CPU 401 instructs the image sound control unit 500 or the like to start a round effect process of a big hit game effect. Note that an instruction to the image sound control unit 500 or the like is performed by setting a command in the RAM 403. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S124.

  In step S124, the CPU 401 determines whether or not a winning command output by the output process in step S9 of FIG. 8 has been received. If the determination in step S124 is YES, the process proceeds to step S125, and if this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S126.

  In step S125, the CPU 401 issues a winning process instruction. Specifically, the CPU 401 instructs the image sound control unit 500 or the like to start a winning process. Note that an instruction to the image sound control unit 500 or the like is performed by setting a command in the RAM 403. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S316.

  In step S126, the CPU 401 determines whether or not the round end notification command set in the process of step S6 in FIG. 8 has been received. If the determination in step S126 is YES, the process proceeds to step S127, and if this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S128.

  In step S127, the CPU 401 instructs the image sound control unit 500 or the like to end the round effect of the big hit game effect. Note that an instruction to the image sound control unit 500 or the like is performed by setting a command in the RAM 403. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S128.

  In step S128, the CPU 401 determines whether or not the ending command set in the process of step S6 of FIG. 8 has been received. If the determination in step S128 is YES, the process proceeds to step S129, and if this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S130.

  In step S129, the CPU 401 issues an ending effect instruction. Specifically, the CPU 401 instructs the image sound control unit 500 and the like to start the ending effect of the big hit game effect. Note that an instruction to the image sound control unit 500 or the like is performed by setting a command in the RAM 403. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S130.

  In step S130, the CPU 401 determines whether or not the customer waiting command and the gaming state notification command set in the process of step S416 in FIG. 10 have been received. If the determination in step S130 is yes, the process proceeds to step S131. If this determination is no, the command reception process is terminated, and the process proceeds to step S12 in FIG.

  In step S131, the CPU 401 instructs the image sound control unit 500 and the like based on the customer waiting command and the gaming state notification command received in step S130 to start the customer waiting process. Note that an instruction to the image sound control unit 500 or the like is performed by setting a command in the RAM 403. Then, the command reception process is terminated, and the process proceeds to step S12 in FIG. Note that the customer waiting process is a process that is started when a so-called customer waiting state is entered, and the CPU 501 of the image sound control unit 500 that is instructed to start the customer waiting process issues, for example, a notification effect start instruction. This customer waiting process is executed until it is received, and the customer waiting process is terminated by receiving a notification production start instruction. However, if the CPU 501 is notified of information indicating that the game ball has passed through the gate 25 or information indicating that the game ball has been won at the normal winning opening, the CPU 501 continues without waiting for the customer. .

[Notification effect setting processing in this embodiment]
Next, the notification effect setting process by the effect control unit 400 will be described with reference to FIG. Here, the outline of the present embodiment will be described. The gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment can execute a timer notice effect that suggests that an expected effect that expects a big hit is executed and an execution timing in the notification effect. . In addition, in the timer notice effect, after executing the count-up effect that counts up the timer time until the expected effect is executed, the count-down effect that counts down the timer time counted up in the count-up effect is executed, and the countdown It is possible to execute a countdown end suggestion effect that indicates that the timer time is counted down to “0:00” and the timing at which the expected effect is to be executed has arrived. Further, in the timer notice effect, a chain is displayed so as to be connected to the timer image as a count-up effect, and the first count-up effect is executed in which the timer time is counted up while the chain is connected to the timer image. By depressing the effect button 37, the enemy (three in this embodiment) is defeated to acquire the ball possessed by the enemy, and the acquired ball changes to the timer time and the timer time displayed on the timer image There is a case where a second count-up effect is counted up. Further, in the notification effect, a timer notice suggestion effect suggesting that the timer notice effect is executed can be executed.

  FIG. 18 is a detailed flowchart showing an example of the notification effect setting process in step S115 of FIG.

  First, in step S701 of FIG. 18, the CPU 401 of the effect control unit 400 analyzes the notification effect start command received in step S114 of FIG. 16, and acquires setting information included in the notification effect start command. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S702.

  In step S702, the CPU 401 determines an effect pattern for the notification effect based on the setting information acquired in step S701. Specifically, the CPU 401 performs a notification effect effect pattern to be executed by lottery or the like from a lot of notification effect effect patterns that satisfy the conditions of the setting information (whether or not a big hit, a notification effect time condition, etc.). To decide. For example, when the variation pattern (special symbol variation time) included in the acquired setting information is 90.05 seconds, the CPU 401 executes up to the first SPSP reach effect among a plurality of SPSP reach effects, and performs the special symbol lottery. Select an effect pattern to notify you that you have won. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S703.

  In step S <b> 703, the CPU 401 is an effect pattern that is executed until the reach pattern determined in step S <b> 702 is equal to or higher than the SP reach (the effect pattern types are the first SPSP loss to the fifth SPSP loss, the first SPSP to the fifth SPSP, the first 1SP loss to third SP loss, or between first SP to third SP). If the determination in step S703 is yes, the process proceeds to step S704. If the determination is no, the process proceeds to step S711.

  In step S704, the CPU 401 determines whether or not to execute a pseudo-continuous effect. When the CPU 401 determines to execute the pseudo-continuous effect, the CPU 401 determines the number of executions of the pseudo-continuous effect. Specifically, the CPU 401 defines the ratio of whether or not to execute the pseudo-continuous effect in the notification effect of the effect pattern executed up to SP reach or more, and executes the pseudo-continuous effect when the pseudo-continuous effect is executed. With reference to the table defining the ratio of the number of times, whether or not to execute the pseudo-continuous effect and the number of executions of the pseudo-continuous effect in the case of executing the pseudo-continuous effect are determined based on lottery. The pseudo-continuous effect (pseudo continuous variation effect; so-called pseudo-ream) is an effect that expects a big hit by temporarily displaying all the decorative symbols that have been changed in the notification effect after temporary stop. In addition, in this pseudo-continuous production, it is suggested that the greater the number of executions of the pseudo-continuous production, the higher the reliability of the big hit. In the present embodiment, it is assumed that one or two pseudo-continuous effects can be executed in the notification effect. Here, the temporary stop means that the player can recognize in a manner that the variation of the decorative design has temporarily stopped, and it is not completely stopped, for example, a state in which it slightly swings up and down Is displayed. This indicates that the special symbol is still changing. Further, in the present embodiment, it is notified that the pseudo-continuous effect is executed by temporarily stopping the symbol depicted as “continue” as the middle ornament symbol which is one of the ornament symbols. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S705.

  In step S <b> 705, the CPU 401 determines whether or not it is determined in step S <b> 704 that the pseudo continuous effect is executed twice. If the determination in step S705 is yes, the process proceeds to step S706. If the determination is no, the process proceeds to step S711.

  In step S706, the CPU 401 determines whether or not to execute a timer notice effect. Specifically, the CPU 401 refers to a table that defines a ratio of whether to execute the timer notice effect in the notification effect in which the pseudo-continuous effect is executed twice, and determines whether or not to execute the timer notice effect. Is determined based on the lottery. The timer notice effect in the present embodiment is an expectation effect that expects a big hit (second pseudo-continuous effect, SPSP development effect suggesting that SPSP reach will be developed, cut-in notice effect that is performed during SPSP reach) This is an effect suggesting the timing at which an expected effect is executed, while notifying that any effect) will be executed. Further, in the present embodiment, as the timer notice effect, a count-up effect that counts up the timer time until the expected effect is executed, a count-down effect that counts down the timer time that is executed after the execution of the count-up effect, and In the countdown effect, a timer time is counted down to “0:00” and a countdown end suggestion effect is executed, which suggests that the timing for executing the expected effect has arrived. Details thereof will be described later. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S707.

  In step S707, the CPU 401 determines whether or not it is determined in step S706 to execute the timer notice effect. If the determination in step S707 is yes, the process proceeds to step S708. If the determination is no, the process proceeds to step S711.

  In step S708, the CPU 401 performs timer notice effect setting processing. Here, details of the timer notice effect setting process will be described with reference to FIG.

[Timer notice effect setting processing]
With reference to FIG. 19, the timer notice effect setting process by the effect control unit 400 will be described. FIG. 19 is a detailed flowchart showing an example of the timer notice effect setting process in step S708 of FIG.

  First, in step S7081, the CPU 401 is an effect pattern in which the effect pattern determined in step S702 of FIG. 18 is executed to the SPSP reach or higher (the effect pattern type is 1st SPSP loss to 5th SPSP loss, per 1st SPSP). It is determined whether or not any one of the fifth SPSP. If the determination in step S7081 is YES, the process moves to step S7082, and if this determination is NO, the process moves to step S7083.

  In step S7082, the CPU 401 starts the expected effect and the timer notice effect that are subject to notice by the timer notice effect in the notice effect in which the SPSP reach effect is executed and the jackpot lottery result is notified after the pseudo-continuous effect is executed twice. Determine the timing. Specifically, the CPU 401 starts the expected effect and the timer notice effect to be notified by the timer notice effect for each of the effect patterns determined in step S702 of FIG. Based on a lottery, an expected effect to be notified by the timer notice effect and a start timing of the timer notice effect are determined with reference to a table that defines a ratio with the timing. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S7084. Hereinafter, the processing in step S7082 will be described in detail with reference to FIGS.

[Time chart for SPSP reach production]
First, referring to FIG. 20, the execution start timing of the timer notice effect in the notification effect in which the SPSP reach effect is executed and the jackpot lottery result is notified after the pseudo-continuous effect in the present embodiment is executed twice and the present The execution timing of the main effects in the embodiment will be described.

  As shown in FIG. 20, after the start of the fluctuation, after the first pseudo-continuous effect, the second pseudo-continuous effect, the SPSP development effect, and the cut-in notice effect are executed in this order, the big hit result is notified and the fluctuation ends. Also, as shown in FIG. 20, the timings at which the timer announcement effect can be started include the first timing T1, the second timing T2, the third timing T3, and the fourth timing T4 (hereinafter simply referred to as T1, T2, T3, and T4). 4), T1 is the timing immediately after the start of fluctuation, T2 is the timing immediately after the first pseudo-continuous effect is executed, and T3 is the second pseudo-continuous rendering. This is the timing immediately after the effect is executed, and T4 is the timing immediately after the SPSP development effect is executed. Also, as shown in FIG. 20, the time from the start of fluctuation until T1, the time from the execution of the first pseudo-continuous effect to T2, and the execution of the second pseudo-continuous effect T3. And the time from the execution of the SPSP development effect to T4 is the same length of time. Also, as shown in FIG. 20, the time from the start of fluctuation until the first pseudo-continuous effect is executed, and the second pseudo-continuous effect is executed after the first pseudo-continuous effect is executed. The time from the execution of the second pseudo-continuous production to the execution of the SPSP development production is the first time of the same length, and the cut-in notice is given after the SPSP development production is executed. The second time until the performance is executed is longer than the first time and shorter than twice the first time. Note that the end timing of the timer notice effect is immediately before execution of the expected effect of the notice object by the timer notice effect (any one of the second pseudo-continuous effect, the SPSP development effect, or the cut-in notice effect). Accordingly, the execution time of the timer notice effect is the first timer notice effect that starts from T1 and the expected effect of the notice object is the cut-in notice effect, and the expected effect that is the notice object that starts from T2 is the cut-in notice effect. The second timer notice effect starting from T1, the third timer notice effect starting from T1, and the fourth timer notice effect starting from T3 and the expected effect subject to notice being the cut-in notice effect. , The fifth timer notice effect starting from T1 is the second pseudo-continuous effect, and the sixth timer notice effect starting from T2 is the SPSP development effect, starting from T4. The 7th timer notice effect in which the expected effect of the notice object is a cut-in notice effect, and the expected effect of the notice object that is started from T2 is the second pseudo-continuous effect. The eighth timer notice effect, the execution time starting from T3 and the expected effect to be noticed are longer in the order of the ninth timer notice effect, which is the SPSP development effect (in addition, the execution time of the fifth timer notice effect, The execution time of the 6 timer notice effect is the same length, and the execution time of the eighth timer notice effect and the execution time of the ninth timer notice effect are the same length).

[Expected production and start timing determination table to be notified when SPSP reach production is executed]
Next, FIG. 21 shows an expected effect and a timer to be notified by a timer notice effect in a notice effect in which an SPSP reach effect is executed and a jackpot lottery result is notified after the pseudo-continuous effect in the present embodiment is executed twice. Based on the reference table shown in FIG. 21, the CPU 401, which is an example of a table that is referred to when determining the start timing of the notice announcement effect, To decide. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 21, depending on whether the effect pattern of the current notification effect indicates “big hit” or “lost”, the notification target of the timer notification effect is The lottery ratio at which the expected effect to be performed and the start timing of the timer notice effect are determined is determined, and the expected effect to be notified by the timer notice effect and the start timing of the timer notice effect are determined based on the lottery ratio. The For example, when the effect pattern indicates “big hit”, the ratio of the second pseudo-continuous effect determined as the expected effect to be notified is 10%, of which T3 and T4 are determined as the start timing. In other words, the ratio at which T1 is determined as the start timing is 9%, and the ratio at which T2 is determined as the start timing is 1%. In addition, the proportion that the SPSP development effect is determined as the expected effect to be notified is 30%, of which T4 is not determined as the start timing, and the ratio that T1 is determined as the start timing is 18%. Yes, the ratio at which T2 is determined as the start timing is 10%, and the ratio at which T3 is determined as the start timing is 2%. Further, the rate at which the cut-in notice effect is determined as the expected effect to be notified is 60%, and the rate at which T1 is determined as the start timing is 20%, and the rate at which T2 is determined as the start timing. Is 19%, the rate at which T3 is determined as the start timing is 17%, and the rate at which T4 is determined as the start timing is 4%. On the other hand, when the production pattern indicates “losing”, the ratio of the second pseudo-continuous production as the expected production to be notified is 29%, of which T3 and T4 are decided as the start timing. In other words, the ratio at which T1 is determined as the start timing is 24%, and the ratio at which T2 is determined as the start timing is 5%. In addition, the rate at which the SPSP development effect is determined as the expected effect to be notified is 33%, of which T4 is not determined as the start timing, and the rate at which T1 is determined as the start timing is 20%. Yes, the rate at which T2 is determined as the start timing is 8%, and the rate at which T3 is determined as the start timing is 5%. Further, the ratio at which the cut-in notice effect is determined as the expected effect to be notified is 38%, and the ratio at which T1 is determined as the start timing is 16%, and the ratio at which T2 is determined as the start timing. Is 12%, the rate at which T3 is determined as the start timing is 5%, and the rate at which T4 is determined as the start timing is 5%.

  Here, as shown in FIG. 21, in the present embodiment, as the timer notice effect, the ratio determined when the first timer notice effect starting from T1 and the expected effect to be noticed is the cut-in notice effect is executed. The second timer notice effect starting from T2 is the cut-in notice effect, and the fourth timer notice effect starting from T2 is the cut-in notice effect. The sixth timer notice effect, which is the SPSP development effect, and the seventh notice effect, which is the cut-in notice effect started from T4, is the target notice object. The 8th timer notice effect that the expectation effect is the second pseudo-continuous effect, or the expectation effect that starts from T3 and is the subject of the notice is the SPSP development effect. It is higher than the rate that is determined to execute the 9 timer announcement attraction. In addition, as the timer notice effect, the ratio determined to execute the third timer notice effect, which is the SPSP development effect, starting from T1 as the notice target effect is the fourth timer notice effect, the sixth timer notice effect, It is higher than the ratio determined to execute the 7-timer notice effect, the eighth timer notice effect, or the ninth timer notice effect. In addition, as the timer notice effect, the ratio determined to execute the fifth timer notice effect, which is the second pseudo-continuous effect starting from T1, is the seventh timer notice effect and the eighth timer notice. It is higher than the ratio determined when the production or the ninth timer notice production is executed. Further, the ratio determined to execute the second timer notice effect as the timer notice effect is the fourth timer notice effect, the sixth timer notice effect, the seventh timer notice effect, the eighth timer notice effect, or the ninth timer notice effect. It is higher than the rate determined to execute the timer notice effect. In addition, as the timer notice effect, the ratio determined to execute the sixth timer notice effect is higher than the ratio determined to execute the seventh timer notice effect or the ninth timer notice effect. In addition, the ratio determined to execute the fourth timer notice effect as the timer notice effect is higher than the ratio determined to execute the seventh timer notice effect. Thus, in the present embodiment, when the timer notice effect is executed, the timer notice effect having a long execution time which starts at an early timing after the change is started is started at a later timing after the change is started. It is easier to decide to execute than the timer notice effect with a short execution time.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 21, in this embodiment, when the performance pattern indicates “big hit”, the ratio determined to execute the sixth timer notification effect is the fifth timer notification effect as the timer notification effect. The ratio determined to be executed is higher than the ratio determined to execute the ninth timer notice effect. The ratio determined to execute the eighth timer notice effect is higher than the ratio determined to execute the eighth timer notice effect. On the other hand, when the effect pattern indicates “losing”, the ratio determined to execute the sixth timer notice effect is lower than the ratio determined to execute the fifth timer notice effect as the timer notice effect. The ratio determined when the ninth timer notice effect is executed is the same as the ratio determined when the eighth timer notice effect is executed. Thus, when the execution times are the same, the jackpot reliability of the timer notice effect with the late start timing is higher than the jackpot reliability of the timer notice effect with the late start timing.

  As shown in FIG. 21, in this embodiment, when the performance pattern indicates “big hit”, the timer notification effect is in the order of the first timer notification effect, the third timer notification effect, and the fifth timer notification effect. The ratio determined to be executed is high, and the ratio determined to be executed in the order of the second timer notice effect, the sixth timer notice effect, and the eighth timer notice effect is high. The ratio determined to be executed as the timer notice effect in the order of the fourth timer notice effect and the ninth timer notice effect is high. On the other hand, when the effect pattern indicates “losing”, the ratio determined to be executed as the timer notice effect in the order of the fifth timer notice effect, the third timer notice effect, and the first timer notice effect becomes high. In addition, the ratio determined to be executed as the timer notice effect in the order of the eighth timer notice effect, the sixth timer notice effect, and the second timer notice effect is high. The ratio determined when executed and the ratio determined when the ninth timer notice effect is executed as the timer notice effect are the same. Thus, when the start timing is the same, the jackpot reliability of the timer notice effect with a long execution time is higher than the jackpot reliability of the timer notice effect with a short execution time.

  As shown in FIG. 21, in this embodiment, when the performance pattern indicates “big hit”, the ratio determined to execute the second timer notification effect as the timer notification effect is the third timer notification effect. Alternatively, the ratio is determined to be higher than when the fifth timer notice effect is executed, and the ratio determined when the fourth timer notice effect is executed is the fifth timer notice effect, the sixth timer notice effect, or the eighth timer. It is higher than the ratio determined to execute the notice effect, and the ratio determined to execute the seventh timer notice effect is higher than the ratio determined to execute the eighth timer notice effect. On the other hand, when the effect pattern indicates “losing”, the ratio determined to execute the second timer notice effect as the timer notice effect is the ratio determined to execute the third timer notice effect or the fifth notice effect. The ratio determined to execute the fourth timer notice effect is lower than the ratio determined to execute the fifth timer notice effect or the eighth timer notice effect. Thus, the ratio determined to execute the seventh timer notice effect is the same as the ratio determined to execute the eighth timer notice effect. As a result, the jackpot reliability of the timer notice effect having a late execution timing and a long execution time as the timer notice effect is higher than the jackpot reliability of the timer notice effect having an early execution time and a short execution time.

  Returning to FIG. 19, in step S7083, the CPU 401 sets the notice target by the timer notice effect in the notification effect in which the SP reach effect is executed and the jackpot lottery result is notified after the pseudo-continuous effect is executed twice. The second pseudo-continuous production is determined as the expected production. In addition, the CPU 401 determines the start timing of the timer notice effect. Specifically, the CPU 401 refers to a table in which the ratio of the start timing of the timer notice effect is defined for each effect pattern determined whether the effect pattern determined in step S702 in FIG. The start timing of the timer notice effect is determined based on the lottery. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S7084. Hereinafter, the processing in step S7083 will be described in detail with reference to FIGS.

[Time chart when SPSP reach production is not executed]
First, referring to FIG. 22, after the pseudo-continuous effect in the present embodiment is executed twice, the SP reach effect is executed (SPSP reach effect is not executed), and the timer notice in the notification effect in which the jackpot lottery result is notified. A description will be given of the execution start possibility timing of the effects and the execution timing of the main effects in the present embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 22, after the start of the fluctuation, after the first pseudo-continuous effect, the second pseudo-continuous effect, and the SP reach effect are executed in this order, the big hit result is notified and the fluctuation ends. In addition, as shown in FIG. 22, two timings of a first timing t1 and a second timing t2 (hereinafter sometimes simply referred to as t1 and t2) are provided as possible timings for starting the timer notice effect. This is the timing immediately after the start of fluctuation, and t2 is the timing immediately after the first pseudo-continuous effect is executed. Also, as shown in FIG. 22, the time from the start of the change to t1 is the same as the time from the execution of the first pseudo-continuous effect to t2 as described with reference to FIG. It's a length of time. In addition, as shown in FIG. 22, the time from when the fluctuation starts until the first pseudo-continuous effect is executed, and after the first pseudo-continuous effect is executed, the second pseudo-continuous effect is executed. The time until completion is the same length of time.

[Start timing determination table when SPSP reach production is not executed]
Next, FIG. 23 shows the timer notice effect in the notification effect in which the SP reach effect is executed after the pseudo-continuous effect in this embodiment is executed twice (the SPSP reach effect is not executed) and the jackpot lottery result is notified. The CPU 401, which is an example of a table that is referred to when determining the start timing, determines the start timing of the timer notice effect based on the reference table shown in FIG. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 23, the start timing of the timer notice effect is determined depending on whether the effect pattern of the current notification effect indicates “big hit” or “lost”. The determined lottery ratio is determined, and the start timing of the timer notice effect is determined based on the lottery ratio. For example, when the effect pattern indicates “big hit”, t1 is determined as a start timing at a rate of 70%. T2 is determined at a rate of 30%. On the other hand, when the effect pattern indicates “losing”, t1 is determined at a rate of 50% as the start timing. T2 is determined at a rate of 50%. As a result, when a notice effect is executed, a timer notice effect that has a long execution time that starts at an early timing after the change starts, and a timer notice that has a short execution time that starts at a later timing after the change starts. It is easier to decide to execute than directing.

  Returning to FIG. 19, in step S7084, the CPU 401 determines the effect type of the timer notice effect. Specifically, in this embodiment, a chain connected to the timer image is displayed as an effect type of the timer notice effect, and the timer time displayed on the timer image is counted up while the chain is connected to the timer image. After executing the displayed first count-up effect, the first effect type that performs the count-down effect in which the counted-up timer time is counted down, and the enemy (three in this embodiment) by pressing the effect button 37 ) To acquire the ball that the enemy has acquired, and the acquired ball is changed to the timer time and the timer time is counted up on the timer image. There is a second effect type to be executed. CPU 401 determines one of the first effect type and the second effect type by lottery or the like. In addition, the CPU 401 determines the first count-up effect or the second count-up effect, and the count-down based on the determined effect type and the expected effect and the start timing of the notice subject for the timer notice effect determined in step S7082 or step S7083. Set the production contents of the production. Then, the timer notice effect setting process is terminated, and the process proceeds to step S709 in FIG.

  Returning to FIG. 18, in step S709, the CPU 401 determines whether or not the start timing of the timer notice effect set in step S708 is T1. If the determination in step S709 is YES, the process proceeds to step S711. If this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S710.

  In step S710, the CPU 401 determines whether or not to execute the timer notice suggestion effect by lottery or the like. In this case, when the result of the special symbol lottery is a big hit, the reference table in which the ratio is set so as to determine that the timer notice suggestion effect is executed with a higher probability than the case of the special symbol lottery result being lost. May be used. By doing in this way, the big hit reliability when the timer notice suggestion effect is executed can be made higher than the big hit reliability when it is not executed. When it is determined to execute the timer notice suggestion effect, the execution start timing of the timer notice suggestion effect is determined so as to be executed before the timer notice effect is started. Here, the timer notice suggestion effect in the present embodiment includes a character image drawn as “standby” at the same position as the timer image displayed when the countdown effect is executed in the timer notice effect. By displaying the timer image until the timer notice effect is started, the effect suggests that the timer notice effect is executed. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S711.

  In step S711, the CPU 401 instructs the image sound control unit 500 and the like to execute notification effects including the effects determined to be executed in steps S702 to S710. Note that an instruction to the image sound control unit 500 or the like is performed by setting a command in the RAM 403. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S116 in FIG.

[Production execution processing in this embodiment]
Next, an effect execution process executed by the image sound control unit 500 in response to a notification effect execution instruction (see step S711 in FIG. 18) from the effect control unit 400 will be described with reference to FIGS. 24 to 26 are flowcharts illustrating an example of the effect execution process performed by the image sound control unit 500. The processing performed by the image sound control unit 500 described based on the flowcharts of FIGS. 24 to 26 is executed based on a program stored in the ROM 502. In addition, in the flowchart shown in FIG. 24, the description of parts other than the characteristic effects in the present embodiment is simplified.

  In step S801 in FIG. 24, the CPU 501 of the image sound control unit 500 determines whether or not a command instructing execution of the notification effect is received from the effect control unit 400 (see step S711 in FIG. 18). If the determination in step S801 is YES, the process moves to step S802. If the determination is NO, the process moves to step S803.

  In step S802, the CPU 501 sets an effect schedule such as the execution timing and execution time of the effect to be executed after the start of the notification effect, based on the effect content set in accordance with the notification instruction execution instruction received in step S801. The notification effect is started. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S803.

  In step S803, the CPU 501 determines whether the execution timing of the timer notice suggestion effect scheduled in step S802 has come. If the determination in step S803 is yes, the process proceeds to step S804. If the determination is no, the process proceeds to step S805.

  In step S804, the CPU 501 executes a timer notice suggesting effect. Specifically, the CPU 501 displays a timer image including a character image depicted as “standby” on the image display unit 6 at the same position as the position where the timer image is displayed in a timer notice effect described later (see FIG. 30 (2), see FIG. 31 (2)). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S805.

  In step S805, the CPU 501 determines whether the start timing of the timer notice effect scheduled in step S802 has come. If the determination in step S805 is YES, the process moves to step S806, and if this determination is NO, the process moves to step S807.

  In step S806, the CPU 501 starts a timer notice effect. Specifically, when the timer notice suggestion effect is being executed, the CPU 501 erases the display of the character image “standby” included in the already displayed timer image and indicates the timer time. When the timer image is displayed on the image display unit 6 in the display mode (in the present embodiment, in the display mode drawn as the initial display mode “0:00” indicating the timer time) and the timer notice suggestion effect is not executed Displays the timer image on the image display unit 6 in the display mode drawn as the initial display mode “0:00” indicating the timer time (FIG. 28 (2), FIG. 29 (3), FIG. 30 described later). (4) and (5) of FIG. 31). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S807.

  In step S807, the CPU 501 determines whether or not the execution timing of the first count-up effect scheduled in step S802 has arrived. If the determination in step S807 is YES, the process moves to step S808, and if this determination is NO, the process moves to step S809.

  In step S808, the CPU 501 executes a first count-up effect. Specifically, the CPU 501 displays a chain image connected to the timer image on the image display unit 6, and creates a timer image based on the content of the effect set according to the notification effect execution instruction received in step S 801. The displayed timer time is counted up and displayed on the image display unit 6. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S809.

  In step S809, the CPU 501 determines whether or not the execution timing of the second count-up effect scheduled in step S802 has arrived. If the determination in step S809 is YES, the process proceeds to step S810, and if this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S811.

  In step S810, CPU 501 executes the second count-up effect. Specifically, the CPU 501 displays a character image “Press the button to defeat the enemy”, three enemy images with a ball, and an image imitating a production button under each enemy image. Displayed in part 6. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S811.

  In step S811, the CPU 501 determines that the operation valid period during which the operation of the effect button 37 is valid (for example, the execution period of the second count-up effect is 6 seconds in the execution period of the second count-up effect, It is determined whether or not the start timing of the period from when the count-up effect is started to when 1 second to 4 seconds elapses has arrived. In the present embodiment, if there is an operation on the effect button 37 (three single-press operations in the present embodiment) during the operation effective period, the operation is performed without expiring the operation effective period. The valid operation period ends at the same timing. If the determination in step S811 is YES, the process proceeds to step S812. If the determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S820 in FIG.

  In step S812, the CPU 501 starts an operation valid period. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S820 in FIG.

  In step S820 in FIG. 25, the CPU 501 determines whether or not the operation is valid. If the determination in step S820 is yes, the process proceeds to step S821. If the determination is no, the process proceeds to step S829.

  In step S821, the CPU 501 determines whether or not a predetermined operation has been performed on the effect button 37 by the player. Specifically, the CPU 501 determines whether or not predetermined operation data output from the effect button 37 is transmitted via the lamp control unit 600 and the effect control unit 400. If the determination in step S821 is YES, the process moves to step S822. If the determination is NO, the process moves to step S826.

  In step S822, the CPU 501 determines whether or not the predetermined operation determined to have been performed on the effect button 37 in the process of step S821 is the third predetermined operation on the effect button 37 in the current operation valid period. To do. Specifically, the CPU 501 determines whether or not the value of N stored in the RAM 503 is “2”. Here, N is the number of times that the predetermined operation has been performed on the effect button 37 during the effective period, and that the value of N is “2” before it is determined YES in step S821. This indicates that the predetermined operation is executed twice. If the determination in step S822 is YES, the process moves to step S824, and if this determination is NO, the process moves to step S823.

  In step S823, the CPU 501 executes an effect corresponding to a predetermined operation determined to have been performed on the effect button 37 in the process of step S821. Specifically, the CPU 501 executes an effect of defeating one enemy in accordance with a predetermined operation performed on the effect button 37 and acquiring a ball possessed by the enemy. Further, the CPU 501 rewrites the value of N stored in the RAM 503 to a value obtained by adding 1. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S829.

  In step S824, the CPU 501 ends the operation valid period, assuming that a predetermined operation is performed on the effect button 37 three times within the operation valid period. Further, the CPU 501 resets the value of N stored in the RAM 503 to “0” and rewrites it. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S825.

  In step S825, the CPU 501 displays a count-up suggestion image that suggests the timer time to be counted up in the second count-up effect. Specifically, as shown in (4) of FIG. 29 and (6) of FIG. 31 described later, the CPU 501 displays an image (for example, indicating the time counted up by the balls acquired by defeating three enemies (for example, , A character image drawn as “+10: 00”, a character image drawn as “+2: 00”, a character image drawn as “+20: 00”, and the like) are displayed on the image display unit 6. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S828.

  In step S826, the CPU 501 determines whether the end timing of the operation valid period determined as described above has arrived. If the determination in step S826 is YES, the process proceeds to step S827. If this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S829.

  In step S827, the CPU 501 ends the operation valid period. Further, the CPU 501 resets the value of N stored in the RAM 503 to “0” and rewrites it. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S828.

  In step S828, CPU 501 updates the display mode of the timer image so that the timer time counted up in the second count-up effect is displayed. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S829.

  In step S829, the CPU 501 determines whether or not the execution timing of the countdown effect scheduled in step S802 of FIG. 24 has arrived. If the determination in step S829 is YES, the process moves to step S830. If the determination is NO, the process moves to step S831.

  In step S830, CPU 501 executes a countdown effect. Specifically, CPU 501 counts down the timer time displayed on the timer image in the first count-up effect or the second count-up effect over the displayed time. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S831.

  In step S831, the CPU 501 determines whether or not the execution timing of the countdown end suggestion effect scheduled in step S802 of FIG. 24 has arrived. If the determination in step S831 is YES, the process proceeds to step S832, and if this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S833.

  In step S832, CPU 501 executes a countdown suggesting effect. Specifically, the CPU 501 displays a character image depicting “I'm going!” On the image display unit 6 (FIG. 28 (5), FIG. 29 (5), and FIG. 30 (7) described later). FIG. 31 (9)). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S833.

  In step S833, the CPU 501 determines whether or not the end timing of the timer notice effect scheduled in step S802 of FIG. 24 has arrived. If the determination in step S833 is YES, the process moves to step S834. If the determination is NO, the process moves to step S840 in FIG.

  In step S834, CPU 501 ends the timer notice effect. Specifically, CPU 501 ends the display of the timer image. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S840 in FIG.

  In step S840 of FIG. 26, the CPU 501 determines whether or not the end timing of the pseudo-continuous effect scheduled in step S802 of FIG. 24 has arrived. If the determination in step S840 is YES, the process moves to step S841, and if this determination is NO, the process moves to step S842.

  In step S841, the CPU 501 executes a pseudo-continuous effect. Specifically, the CPU 501 temporarily stops the symbol drawn “continue” as the middle decorative symbol in a state where the right decorative symbol and the left decorative symbol among the three decorative symbols are temporarily stopped. Three decorative symbols are displayed again. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S842.

  In step S842, the CPU 501 determines whether or not the SPSP development effect execution timing scheduled in step S802 of FIG. 24 has arrived. If the determination in step S842 is YES, the process moves to step S843. If the determination is NO, the process moves to step S844.

  In step S843, the CPU 501 executes the SPSP development effect. Specifically, the CPU 501 instructs the lamp control unit 600 via the effect control unit 400 to operate the working accessory 7. The instruction to the lamp control unit 600 is performed by sending a command. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S844.

  In step S844, CPU 501 determines whether or not the cut-in notice effect execution timing scheduled in step S802 of FIG. 24 has arrived. If the determination in step S844 is yes, the process moves to step S845. If the determination is no, the process moves to step S846.

  In step S845, CPU 501 executes a cut-in notice effect. Specifically, CPU 501 displays a cut-in notice image on image effect unit 6 based on the effect content set in accordance with the notification effect execution instruction received in step S801. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S846.

  In step S846, CPU 501 determines whether or not a command instructing the end of the notification effect is received from effect control unit 400 (see step S117 in FIG. 16). If the determination in step S846 is YES, the process proceeds to step S847. If this determination is NO, the effect execution process ends, and the processes illustrated in FIGS. 24 to 26 are repeated again at the timing of the next timer interrupt process. Run.

  In step S847, the CPU 501 ends the notification effect, ends the effect execution process, and repeatedly executes the processes shown in FIGS. 24 to 26 again at the timing of the next timer interrupt process.

  Although not shown, the schedule created in step S802 of FIG. 24 includes execution of effects other than the effects described using FIGS. 24 to 26 (for example, group notice effects). In this case, the CPU 501 executes each effect when the execution timing of each effect scheduled in step S802 arrives.

[Characteristic operation according to this embodiment]
Next, characteristic operations according to the present embodiment that are executed by the control described above with reference to the flowcharts will be described with reference to FIGS.

  In this embodiment, in the notification effect, the timer time displayed on the timer image is displayed after being displayed (the count-up effect is executed), and then the timer time displayed after being counted up is displayed. Is counted down (the countdown effect is executed), and when the timer time display is counted down to “0:00”, an image indicating that the timer time countdown has ended (“go!” (Drawn character image) is displayed (countdown end suggestion effect is executed), expectation effect to expect a big hit (second pseudo-continuous effect, SPSP development effect suggesting that it will develop into SPSP reach, during SPSP reach) (Indication of any cut-in notice effect performed at Timer announcement attraction is performed. Also, before the timer time displayed on the timer image is counted up and displayed, a timer image including a character image drawn as “standby” is displayed at the position where the timer time is displayed (timer notice suggestion effect) Is executed), the execution of the timer notice effect suggesting the execution of the expected effect is suggested (notice).

  FIG. 27 is a time chart for a plurality of typical examples of the notification effect in which the timer notification effect and the timer notification suggestion effect are executed. (1) in FIG. 27 is a notification effect in which a timer notice effect (fifth timer notice effect, see FIG. 21) for notifying the execution and execution timing of the second pseudo-continuous effect starting from the first timing T1 is executed. It is a time chart. (2) in FIG. 27 is a notification effect in which a timer notice effect (eighth timer notice effect, see FIG. 21) is executed, which starts from the second timing T2 and notifies the execution and execution timing of the second pseudo-continuous effect. It is a time chart. FIG. 27 (3) shows a timer notice effect that starts from the second timing T2 and notifies the execution and execution timing of the SPSP development effect after the timer notice suggestion effect is executed (eighth timer notice effect, see FIG. 21). It is a time chart of the notification effect in which is executed. (4) in FIG. 27 shows a timer notice effect (fourth timer notice effect, see FIG. 21) that starts at the third timing T3 and indicates the execution and execution timing of the cut-in notice effect after the timer notice suggestion effect is executed. Is a time chart of a notification effect in which is executed.

  FIG. 28 is a diagram for specifically explaining the notification effect shown in (1) of FIG. The notification effect in which the timer notice effect that starts from the first timing T1 and notifies the execution timing is executed will be described below using (1) of FIG. 28 and FIG.

  First, as shown in (1) of FIG. 28 and (1) of FIG. 27, when the notification effect is started, the left decorative symbol DI1, the middle decorative symbol DI3, and the right decorative symbol DI2 that have been stopped are displayed from above. The display is variably displayed downward (that is, the decorative design starts to change). Here, in the left decorative symbol DI1, the middle decorative symbol DI3, and the right decorative symbol DI2, the decorative symbols depicting the numbers 1 to 9 are arranged in the order of 1 to 9 and are circulated and displayed in a variable manner. Is done. In FIG. 28 to FIG. 31, the decorative symbols that are variably displayed are represented by downward arrows.

  Next, as shown in (2) of FIG. 28 and (1) of FIG. 27, “0:00” is drawn as the timer time at the timing (first timing T1) immediately after the start of the notification effect. The timer image 50 is displayed on the image display unit 60, the timer notice effect is started, the chain image connected to the timer image 50 is displayed, and the timer time displayed on the timer image 50 is counted up as time passes. The first count-up effect is executed.

  Next, as shown in (3) of FIG. 28 and (1) of FIG. 27, after the left decorative design DI1 temporarily stops and the right decorative design DI2 temporarily stops, the middle decorative design DI3 is set to “continue”. The first pseudo-continuous effect is executed after being temporarily stopped with the drawn symbols. In the example of (3) in FIG. 28, the first count-up effect is also being executed, and the timer time is counted up to “6:00”.

  Next, as shown in (4) of FIG. 28 and (1) of FIG. 27, when the timer time is counted up to “8:00”, a chain image deviating from the timer image 50 is displayed on the image display unit 6. A countdown effect is displayed in which the timer time displayed and displayed on the timer image 50 (count-up display) is displayed in a count-down manner.

  Next, as shown in (5) of FIG. 28 and (1) of FIG. 27, when the timer time is counted down to “0:00”, a character image drawn “Go!” Is displayed. Then, the countdown end suggestion effect is executed, which suggests that the expected effect to be notified of the timer notice effect is executed, and the timer notice effect is ended.

  Next, as shown in (6) of FIG. 28 and (1) of FIG. 27, after the left decorative design DI1 temporarily stops and the right decorative design DI2 temporarily stops, the middle decorative design DI3 is set to “continue”. The second pseudo-continuous effect (expected effect that is the target of the timer notice effect) is executed after being temporarily stopped with the drawn symbol.

  Next, as shown in (7) of FIG. 28 and (1) of FIG. 27, a reach state is reached, and three decorative symbols are reduced and displayed on the lower right of the screen, and an SPSP development effect for operating the movable accessory 7 is executed. It is suggested that it will develop into SPSP reach production.

  Next, as shown in (8) of FIG. 28 and (1) of FIG. 27, three decorative symbols are displayed in a reduced size in the lower right corner of the screen, and a cut-in notice for displaying a cut-in notice image on the image display unit 6 is displayed. After the effect is executed, as shown in (9) of FIG. 28 and (1) of FIG. 27, the left decorative symbol DI1, the middle decorative symbol DI3, and the right decorative symbol DI2 are completely stopped and displayed (determination is stopped). As a result, the result of the big hit lottery (special symbol lottery) is informed in an effect.

  FIG. 29 is a diagram for specifically explaining the notification effect shown in (2) of FIG. The notification effect in which the timer notice effect that starts the second timing T2 and notifies the execution timing is executed will be described below with reference to FIG. 29 and FIG. 27 (2).

  First, as shown in (1) of FIG. 29 and (2) of FIG. 27, when the notification effect is started, the left decorative symbol DI1, the middle decorative symbol DI3, and the right decorative symbol DI3 that have been stopped are displayed from above. Fluctuation is displayed downward.

  Next, as shown in (2) of FIG. 29 and (2) of FIG. 27, after the left decorative design DI1 temporarily stops and the right decorative design DI2 temporarily stops, the middle decorative design DI3 becomes “continue”. The first pseudo-continuous effect is executed after being temporarily stopped with the drawn symbols.

  Next, as shown in (3) of FIG. 29 and (2) of FIG. 27, “0:00” is set as the timer time at the timing (second timing T2) immediately after the first pseudo-continuous effect is executed. Is displayed on the image display unit 6 and the timer notice effect is started, and three decorative symbols are reduced and displayed on the lower right of the screen, and “Depress the enemy by pressing the button” is drawn. The image, the three enemy images with the ball, and the image imitating the effect button 37 are displayed on the image display unit 6, and the second count-up effect is executed.

  Next, when a predetermined operation on the effect button 37 is performed three times or when the operation valid period ends, as shown in (4) of FIG. 29, three decorative symbols are reduced and displayed at the lower right of the screen. The count-up suggestion images 51a and 51b drawn as “+10: 00” and the count-up suggestion image 51c drawn as “+2: 00” are displayed to indicate the time when the timer time is counted up. The timer image 50 is updated and displayed so that the time suggested by the images 51 a to 51 c is displayed at the timer time of the timer image 50.

  Next, as shown in (5) of FIG. 29 and (2) of FIG. 27, a countdown effect is performed in which the timer time displayed (count up display) on the timer image 50 is displayed in a count down manner.

  Next, as shown in (6) of FIG. 29 and (2) of FIG. 27, when the timer time is counted down to “0:00”, a character image drawn “Go!” Is displayed. The countdown end suggestion effect is executed, and the timer notice effect is ended.

  Next, as shown in (7) of FIG. 29 and (2) of FIG. 27, after the left decorative design DI1 temporarily stops and the right decorative design DI2 temporarily stops, the middle decorative design DI3 becomes “continue”. The second pseudo-continuous effect (expected effect that is the target of the timer notice effect) is executed after being temporarily stopped with the drawn symbol.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 29 (8) and FIG. 27 (2), a reach state is reached and three decorative symbols are reduced and displayed in the lower right corner of the screen, and an SPSP development effect for operating the movable accessory 7 is executed. Is done.

  Next, as shown in (9) of FIG. 29 and (2) of FIG. 27, three decorative symbols are reduced and displayed in the lower right corner of the screen, and a cut-in notice effect for displaying a cut-in notice image is executed. Then, as shown in (10) of FIG. 29 and (2) of FIG. 27, the left decorative symbol DI1, the middle decorative symbol DI3, and the right decorative symbol DI2 are completely stopped and displayed, and the result of the big hit lottery is produced. Will be informed.

  FIG. 30 is a diagram for specifically explaining the notification effect shown in (3) of FIG. In the following, using (3) of FIG. 30 and FIG. 27, after the timer notice suggestion effect is executed, the timer notice effect that starts from the second timing T2 and notifies the execution timing of the SPSP development effect is executed. The notification effect will be described.

  First, as shown in (1) of FIG. 30 and (3) of FIG. 27, when the notification effect is started, the left decorative symbol DI1, the middle decorative symbol DI3, and the right decorative symbol DI3 that have been stopped are displayed from above. Fluctuation is displayed downward.

  Next, as shown in (2) of FIG. 30 and (3) of FIG. 27, a timer image 50 including a character image drawn as “standby” when a predetermined time (for example, 2 seconds) has elapsed since the start of the notification effect. Is displayed on the image display unit 6, and the timer notice suggestion effect is executed to suggest that the timer notice effect will be executed from now on.

  Next, as shown in (3) of FIG. 30 and (3) of FIG. 27, after the left decorative design DI1 temporarily stops and then the right decorative design DI2 temporarily stops, the middle decorative design DI3 becomes “continue”. The first pseudo-continuous effect is executed after being temporarily stopped with the drawn symbols. In the example of (3) of FIG. 30, the timer image 50 including the character image drawn as “standby” is continuously displayed, and the timer notice effect has not been executed yet. Suggests.

  Next, as shown in (4) of FIG. 30 and (3) of FIG. 27, the character depicted as “standby” at the timing (second timing T2) immediately after the first pseudo-continuous effect is executed. The image is erased, and the character image drawn with “0:00” as the timer time is displayed on the image display unit 60 so as to be included in the timer image 50, and the timer notice effect is started and connected to the timer image 50. The chain image is displayed, and the first count-up effect is displayed in which the timer time displayed on the timer image 50 is counted up as time passes.

  Next, as shown in (5) of FIG. 30 and (3) of FIG. 27, after the left decorative design DI1 temporarily stops and the right decorative design DI2 temporarily stops, the middle decorative design DI3 becomes “continue”. Temporarily stopped with the drawn symbol and the second pseudo-continuous effect is executed. In the example of (5) of FIG. 30, the first count-up effect is also being executed, and the timer time is counted up to “6:00”.

  Next, as shown in (6) of FIG. 30 and (3) of FIG. 27, when the timer time is counted up to “8:00”, a chain image deviating from the timer image 50 is displayed on the image display unit 6. A countdown effect is displayed that causes the timer time displayed on the timer image 50 to be displayed in a countdown manner.

  Next, as shown in (7) of FIG. 30 and (3) of FIG. 27, when the reach state is reached and the timer time is counted down to “0:00”, “I will go!” Is drawn. A character image is displayed, a countdown end suggestion effect is executed, which suggests that an expected effect to be notified of the timer notification effect is executed, and the timer notification effect is ended.

  Next, as shown in (8) of FIG. 30 and (3) of FIG. 27, three decorative symbols are reduced and displayed in the lower right corner of the screen, and an SPSP development effect (timer notice effect of operating the movable accessory 7) is displayed. Expected production, which is the subject of notice, is executed.

  Next, as shown in (9) of FIG. 30 and (3) of FIG. 27, three decorative symbols are displayed in a reduced size in the lower right corner of the screen, and a cut-in notice for displaying a cut-in notice image on the image display unit 6 is displayed. After the performance is executed, as shown in (10) of FIG. 30 and (3) of FIG. 27, the left decorative symbol DI1, the middle decorative symbol DI3, and the right decorative symbol DI2 are completely stopped and displayed. The result of the lottery is reported in a production manner.

  FIG. 31 is a diagram for specifically explaining the notification effect shown in (4) of FIG. In the following, using (4) of FIG. 31 and FIG. 27, after the timer notice suggestion effect is executed, the timer notice effect that starts at the third timing T3 and suggests the execution timing is executed. The notification effect will be described.

  First, as shown in (1) and FIG. 31 (4), as shown in (4) of FIG. 27, when the notification effect is started, the left decorative design DI1, the middle decorative design DI3, and the right decorative design that have been stopped are displayed. The symbol DI3 is displayed variably from the top to the bottom.

  Next, as shown in (2) of FIG. 31 and (4) of FIG. 27, a timer image 50 including a character image drawn as “standby” when a predetermined time (for example, 2 seconds) has elapsed since the start of the notification effect. Is displayed on the image display unit 6, and the timer notice suggestion effect is executed to suggest that the timer notice effect will be executed from now on.

  Next, as shown in (3) of FIG. 31 and (4) of FIG. 27, after the left decorative design DI1 temporarily stops and then the right decorative design DI2 temporarily stops, the middle decorative design DI3 becomes “continue”. The first pseudo-continuous effect is executed after being temporarily stopped with the drawn symbols. Further, in the example of (3) of FIG. 31, the timer image 50 including the character image drawn as “standby” is continuously displayed, and the timer notice effect has not been executed yet. Suggests.

  Next, as shown in (4) of FIG. 31 and (4) of FIG. 27, after the left decorative design DI1 temporarily stops and then the right decorative design DI2 temporarily stops, the middle decorative design DI3 becomes “continue”. Temporarily stopped with the drawn symbol and the second pseudo-continuous effect is executed. Further, in the example of (3) of FIG. 31, the timer image 50 including the character image drawn as “standby” is continuously displayed, and the timer notice effect has not been executed yet. Suggests.

  Next, as shown in (5) of FIG. 31 and (4) of FIG. 27, “0:00” is set as the timer time at the timing (third timing T3) immediately after the second pseudo-continuous performance is executed. Is displayed on the image display unit 6 and the timer notice effect is started, and three decorative symbols are reduced and displayed on the lower right of the screen, and “Depress the enemy by pressing the button” is drawn. The image, the three enemy images with the ball, and the image imitating the effect button 37 are displayed on the image display unit 6, and the second count-up effect is executed.

  Next, when a predetermined operation on the effect button 37 is performed three times or when the operation valid period ends, as shown in (6) of FIG. 31, three decorative symbols are reduced and displayed on the lower right of the screen. The count-up suggestion images 51a and 51b drawn as “+2: 00” and the count-up suggestion image 51c drawn as “+20: 00” are displayed to indicate the time when the timer time is counted up. The timer image 50 is updated and displayed so that the time suggested by the images 51 a to 51 c is displayed at the timer time of the timer image 50.

  Next, as shown in (7) of FIG. 31 and (4) of FIG. 27, a countdown effect is performed in which the timer time displayed (count up display) on the timer image 50 is displayed in a count down manner.

  Next, as shown in (8) of FIG. 31 and (4) of FIG. 27, a reach state is reached, and three decorative symbols are reduced and displayed on the lower right of the screen, and an SPSP development effect for operating the movable accessory 7 is executed. Is done. Further, in the example of (8) of FIG. 31, the countdown display effect is also being executed, and the timer time is counted down to “20:00”.

  Next, as shown in (9) of FIG. 31 and (4) of FIG. 27, three decorative symbols are reduced and displayed in the lower right corner of the screen, the PSP reach effect is executed, and the timer time reaches “0:00”. When the countdown is displayed, a character image depicting “go!” Is displayed, and a countdown end suggestion effect is executed to indicate that an expected effect that is a target of the timer notice effect is executed. The production ends.

  Next, as shown in (10) of FIG. 31 and (4) of FIG. 27, three decorative symbols are reduced and displayed in the lower right corner of the screen, and a cut-in notice is displayed on the image display unit 6. After the effect (expected effect to be notified by the timer notice effect) is executed, as shown in (11) of FIG. 31 and (4) of FIG. 27, the left decorative symbol DI1, the middle decorative symbol DI3, and the right decorative symbol are displayed. As DI2 is completely stopped and displayed, the result of the big hit lottery is informed in an effect.

  As described above, in this embodiment, in the notification effect in which the expected effect that expects a big hit is executed, it is suggested that the expected effect is executed starting from one of a plurality of timings (notice) A timer notice effect can be executed. Also, when the timer notice effect is executed, the timer notice effect is started at an earlier timing among the plurality of timings and is longer than the timer notice effect that is started at a later time among the plurality of timings and has a shorter execution time. The timer notice effect is easier to execute. Also, when the execution time of the timer notice effect is the same, the timer notice effect that starts from the later timing of the plurality of timings is larger than the timer notice effect that starts from the earlier of the plurality of timings. Reliability is high. In addition, when the timer notice effect is started from the same timing among the plurality of timings, the timer notice effect having a longer execution time has a higher jackpot reliability than the timer notice effect having a shorter execution time. In addition, the big hit reliability is higher for the timer notice effect that is started from the later timing and the execution time is longer than the timer notice effect that is started from the earlier timing and the execution time is short. Yes. As a result, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to suggest the jackpot reliability by the execution start timing and the execution time of the timer notice effect that suggests the execution of the expected effect that expects the big hit. A timer notice effect that can effectively attract interest can be executed.

  In the present embodiment, in the timer notice effect, it is possible to execute a count-up effect that counts up (accumulates) the timer time and a count-down effect that counts down the counted timer time. This makes it possible to execute a novel effect that can effectively attract the player's interest.

  In this embodiment, before the timer notice effect is performed, a timer image including an image drawn as “standby” indicating that the timer notice effect is executed is displayed until the timer notice effect is executed. It is possible. Further, in the present embodiment, in the timer notice effect, the timer image is displayed and the timer time is counted up until the countdown effect that counts down the timer time until the expected effect is executed is displayed. Production can be performed. Accordingly, it is possible to execute a novel effect that can effectively give the player a sense of expectation that a countdown effect that finally suggests the timing at which the expected effect will be executed is performed.

[Modification]
In the above-described embodiment, the expected effect that is the target of the timer notice effect is one of the second pseudo-continuous effect, the SPSP development effect, and the cut-in notice effect. However, the present invention is not limited to this. Absent. For example, a group notice effect, an effect of operating the movable accessory 7 suggesting that a big hit (so-called decision effect) may be used as an effect subject to notice of the timer notice effect, and if it is an effect that expects a big hit, a timer notice It is not limited as an effect subject to the notice of the effect. In this way, it is possible to realize a variety of timer notice effects.

  In the above-described embodiment, the number of executions of the pseudo-continuous effect is set to 2 or less in one notification effect, but the present invention is not limited to this. The number of pseudo-continuous operations may be performed three times or more in one notification effect, and the third or subsequent pseudo-continuous effect may be an expected effect to be notified by the timer notice effect.

  In the above-described embodiment, in the countdown effect of the timer notice effect, the timer time counted up in the countup effect is simply displayed until “0:00”. However, the present invention is not limited to this. is not. In the countdown effect, there may be a period in which the timer time countdown display is paused display, fast forward display, slow playback display, and timer time fast return display (that is, the timer time displayed in the countdown display is returned). There may be a period of time). In this way, the display of the timer time when the countdown effect is started in the timer notice effect can give the player who expected the timing of the end of the timer notice effect, and a novel timer notice. Production can be performed.

  In the above-described embodiment, one timer notice effect is performed in one notification effect. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the timer notice effect is performed twice or more in one notification effect. It is good also as what is said. In addition, when the timer notice effect is performed twice or more in one notification effect, the execution periods of the timer notice effects may be overlapped or may not be overlapped. For example, in one notification effect, another timer notification effect may be started while the timer notification effect is being executed, and two or more timer notification effects may be simultaneously executed. Two or more timer notice effects may be executed at the same time, or another timer notice effect may be executed after the timer notice effect ends. In addition, when a timer notice effect is performed two times or more in one notification effect, when the timer notice effect is performed, the timer notice suggestion effect is performed in an effect mode that also suggests the number of times the timer notice effect is performed. It may be. By doing so, it is possible to realize a variety of timer notice effects and to execute novel effects.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, the display mode of the timer image and / or the timer time displayed on the timer image is the same regardless of the length of the timer time counted up in the count-up effect of the timer notice effect. It was supposed to be, but it is not limited to this. The timer image and / or the timer time displayed on the timer image may be displayed in a different display mode according to the length of the timer time counted up in the count-up effect of the timer notice effect. For example, when the timer time counted up in the count-up effect of the timer notice effect is within 8 seconds, the timer time and / or the timer time displayed on the timer image is displayed in a blue display mode. When the timer time counted up in the count-up effect of the timer notice effect is longer than 8 seconds, the timer time displayed on the timer image and / or the timer image is displayed in a red display mode. Also good.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, the display mode of the ball that the enemy has in the second count-up effect of the timer notice effect is assumed to be the same display mode regardless of the length of the changing timer time. It is not limited to. In the second count-up effect of the timer notice effect, the display mode of the balls held by the enemy may be a different display mode depending on the length of the timer time that changes thereafter. For example, in the second count-up effect of the timer notice effect, the ball that the enemy that can change within the timer time within 8 seconds is displayed in blue, and the enemy that can change the timer time longer than 8 seconds has You may make it display the ball which is being displayed with a red display mode.

  In the above-described embodiment, the timer notice suggestion effect is performed in the notification effect in which the timer notice effect is executed. However, the present invention is not limited to this. The timer notice suggestion effect may be performed from a notice effect executed before the notice effect in which the timer notice effect is executed as the pre-read notice effect.

  In the above-described embodiment, the countdown effect is performed after the count-up effect of either the first count-up effect or the second count-up effect is executed in the timer notice effect. Is not something In the timer notice effect, the countdown effect may be performed without performing the countup effect.

  Moreover, although the features of the present embodiment and the features of the modified examples have been described above, it goes without saying that these features may be appropriately combined.

  Further, the shape, number, installation position, and the like of each component provided in the pachinko gaming machine 1 described above are merely examples, and the scope of the present invention is not limited to other shapes, numbers, and installation positions. It goes without saying that the present invention can be realized without departing from the above. Further, it goes without saying that the numerical values and the like used in the above-described processing are merely examples, and the present invention can be realized even with other numerical values.

  As mentioned above, although this invention was demonstrated in detail using embodiment, the above-mentioned description is only the illustration of this invention in all the points, and does not intend to limit the range. It goes without saying that various improvements and modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. In addition, it is to be understood that the terms used in the present specification are used in the meaning normally used in the art unless otherwise specified. Thus, unless defined otherwise, all technical and technical terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. In case of conflict, the present specification, including definitions, will control.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Game machine 2 ... Game board 4 ... Display 5 ... Frame member 6 ... Image display part 7 ... Movable accessory 8 ... Board lamp 20 ... Game area 21 ... 1st start opening 22 ... 2nd start opening 23 ... Grand prize Mouth 24 ... Normal winning port 25 ... Gate 26 ... Discharge port 27 ... Electric tulip 31 ... Handle 32 ... Lever 33 ... Stop button 34 ... Eject button 35 ... Speaker 36 ... Frame lamp 37 ... Production button 38 ... Production key 39 ... Dish 43 ... Lock part 100 ... Main control part 101, 201, 301, 401, 501, 601 ... CPU
102, 202, 302, 402, 502, 602 ... ROM
103, 203, 303, 403, 503, 603 ... RAM
111a ... 1st start port switch 111b ... 2nd start port switch 112 ... Electric tulip opening / closing part 113 ... Gate switch 114 ... Grand prize opening switch 115 ... Grand prize opening / closing part 116 ... Normal prize opening switch 200 ... Launch control part 211 ... Launching device 300 ... payout control unit 311 ... payout drive unit 400 ... production control unit 404 ... RTC
500 ... Image sound control unit 600 ... Lamp control unit

A gaming machine (1) according to one aspect of the present invention includes:
A determination means (100) for determining whether or not to execute a special game (big hit game) advantageous to the player due to establishment of a predetermined condition;
A symbol control means (100) that displays the symbol (special symbol) variably based on the determination result by the determination means, and then stops and displays the symbol in a manner indicating the determination result;
Production execution means (400, 500) capable of performing production with the variable display,
The production execution means
A first specific effect (for example, a pseudo-continuous effect (second time)) that causes the player to expect the special game to be executed, and an effect that can be executed after the first specific effect. A second specific effect (for example, SPSP development effect) that makes the player expect to be executed can be executed (see FIGS. 27 (2) and (3)).
A first time effect ( the remaining time until the first specific effect is executed prior to the execution of the first specific effect, which is an effect executed over the first period from the first timing during the variable display. 27 (2)) and an effect that is executed over a second period that is longer than the first period from the first timing, and the second specific effect is executed prior to the execution of the second specific effect. Ri executable der a second time effect indicating the remaining time until (see FIG. 27 (3)) that,
It is possible for a player to execute the special game when the second time effect and the second specific effect are executed rather than when the first time effect and the first specific effect are executed. degree to which the expected rather high, (see Figure 21)
For the first time effect and the second time effect, first, a cumulative effect (count-up effect) that cumulatively displays the remaining time is executed, and then the cumulative display of the remaining time accumulated in the cumulative effect is subtracted. This is an effect of executing a subtraction effect (countdown effect) to be displayed. (Refer to Fig. 27 (2) and (3))

Claims (1)

Determining means for determining whether or not to execute a special game advantageous to the player by the establishment of a predetermined condition;
After the symbols are displayed in a variable manner based on the determination result by the determination unit, the symbol control unit is configured to stop display in a manner indicating the determination result;
Production execution means capable of performing production with the variation display,
The production execution means
A first specific effect that causes the player to expect the special game to be executed, and an effect that can be executed after the first specific effect and that causes the player to expect the special game to be executed. 2 It is possible to perform specific effects and
A first time effect indicating a remaining time until the first specific effect is executed prior to the execution of the first specific effect, the effect being executed over a first period from the first timing during the variable display; , Which is an effect executed over a second period longer than the first period from the first timing, and indicates the remaining time until the second specific effect is executed prior to the execution of the second specific effect. It can be performed for 2 hours,
It is possible for a player to execute the special game when the second time effect and the second specific effect are executed rather than when the first time effect and the first specific effect are executed. A gaming machine with a high degree of expectation.

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