JP2018149035A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine for improving a performance effect.SOLUTION: A Pachinko game machine includes: reproduction means for reproducing a background image in which a figure moves from right to left; informing performance execution means for executing an informing performance that is a performance relating to a specific scene of the background image, and reports that a super-ready-to-win is executed; and switching means for changing the background image under reproduction to a predetermined video image in which the specific scene is reproduced at execution timing of the informing performance when the informing performance is executed. The switching means reduces visibility of a series of video images when switching the series of video images to the predetermined video image (changeover performance).SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 23

Description

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

  For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a reproduction means for reproducing a series of videos (background videos) and a notification effect executing means for executing a notification effect (expected degree effect) for notifying that a specific effect (super reach) is executed. And a switching means for switching the series of videos being reproduced to a predetermined video (repetitive image effect) when the notification effect is executed.

JP 2009-125429 A

  In the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1, there is no contrivance when switching from a series of videos to a predetermined video, and the effect of the performance cannot be improved (for example, switching may feel uncomfortable).

  An object of this invention is to provide the gaming machine which improved the production effect.

(1) In order to achieve the above object, a gaming machine according to the present invention provides:
A gaming machine for playing games,
Reproducing means (for example, the display control unit 123 for reproducing the background image) for reproducing a series of videos (for example, a background image in which a figure moves from right to left, FIG. 13);
An effect related to a specific image (for example, specific scene A, FIG. 15A) in the series of images, and a notification effect (for example, notifying that a specific effect (for example, super reach) is executed) A notification effect executing means (for example, steps S676, S342, S556, etc.) for executing the notification effect A);
When the notification effect is executed, the specific image is played back in accordance with the execution timing of the notification effect (for example, the timing 4 seconds after the start of variable display of the target). A predetermined image (the playback position of the background image (see FIG. 17 and the like so that the playback position A5 arrives at the timing 4 seconds later) is selected from any of the playback positions A1 to A4 according to the number of reserved second game games. Switching means (for example, step S678, FIG. 17, step S345, step S553) for switching to the background image to be reproduced by switching to
The switching means reduces the visibility of the series of videos when switching the series of videos to the predetermined video (for example, hiding a background image by a sandstorm image; see FIG. 23F).

  According to such a configuration, it is possible to improve the effect.

(2) In the gaming machine of (1) above,
The predetermined video is a video constituting a part of the series of videos (for example, a background image),
You may do it.

  According to such a configuration, it is possible to reduce a sense of incongruity due to switching of images, and it is possible to improve the production effect.

(3) In the above gaming machine (1) or (2),
The notification effect is executed in a specific variable display after a predetermined number of variable displays are executed (for example, FIG. 21),
The switching means switches the series of videos to the predetermined video when the display results of the predetermined number of variable displays are all lost (for example, step S675B, FIG. 21).
You may do it.

  According to such a configuration, video switching can be performed appropriately.

(4) In any of the above gaming machines (1) to (3),
A plurality of the specific videos are provided (for example, specific scenes A to C),
The notification effect executing means executes the notification effect (for example, notification effects A to C) in correspondence with any of the plurality of specific videos.
You may do it.

  According to such a configuration, it is possible to increase the variation of the effect by increasing the execution timing of the notification effect.

(5) In any of the above gaming machines (1) to (4),
The notification effect may not be executed even when the series of images is switched to the predetermined image by the switching means (for example, switching effects A1 to A4).
You may do it.

  According to such a configuration, it is possible to improve the frequency of switching a series of videos and enhance the effect.

(6) In any of the above gaming machines (1) to (5),
Variable display execution means (for example, display control unit 123) for executing variable display of identification information (for example, decorative symbols) on the display means for displaying the series of images;
The variable display execution means reduces the visibility of the identification information at least when the notification effect is executed (for example, displays in a translucent manner),
You may do it.

  According to such a configuration, it is possible to prevent the effect of the notification effect from being lowered by the identification information.

1 is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is a block diagram which shows the various control boards etc. which were mounted in the pachinko game machine. It is a figure which shows the structural example of the main effect control commands. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a special symbol process process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a start winning determination process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a random value determination process at the time of winning. It is a figure which shows an example of a fluctuation pattern. It is a figure which shows the example of determination of the fluctuation pattern at the time of big hit. It is a figure which shows the example of determination of the fluctuation pattern at the time of a loss. It is a figure which shows the example of the content of the command buffer at the time of a start winning prize. It is a flowchart which shows an example of production control process processing. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a notification production | presentation / switching production | presentation execution setting process. It is a figure which shows a background image. It is a figure which shows the time-sequential relationship of each reproduction position in a background image. It is a figure which shows the background image at the time of notification production execution. It is a figure which shows the example of determination of the kind of alerting | reporting effect to perform. It is a figure which shows the relationship between alerting | reporting effect and the various reproduction positions of a background image. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a variable display start setting process. It is a figure which shows an example of the execution decision example of a gasse switching effect. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a variable display process. It is a figure which shows time series, such as a switching effect, alerting | reporting effects, each variable display (fluctuation), and a background image. It is a figure explaining the time series, such as a switching effect in the case of performing a switching effect of a gaze, each variable display (fluctuation), a background image, etc. compared with the case where the switching effect which is not a gaze is performed. It is a figure of the example of an effect screen at the time of performing a switching effect and alerting | reporting effect.

(Configuration of pachinko machine 1)
FIG. 1 is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine 1 and shows an arrangement layout of main members. The pachinko gaming machine (gaming machine) 1 is roughly composed of a gaming board (gauge board) 2 constituting a gaming board surface and a gaming machine frame (base frame) 3 for supporting and fixing the gaming board 2. A game area is formed on the game board 2, and a game ball as a game medium is launched into a game area from a predetermined hitting device.

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

  Note that “variable display” of special symbols means, for example, that a plurality of types of special symbols can be displayed so as to be variable (updated display or the like) (the same applies to other symbols described later). At the end of the variable display, a predetermined special symbol is stopped and displayed (also referred to as derivation or derivation display) as a display result (variable display result) (the same applies to other variable displays described later). Note that scroll display, deformation, enlargement / reduction, and the like may be performed as variations in symbols (in particular, decorative symbols described later).

  The special symbol variably displayed on the first special symbol display device 4A is also referred to as “first special symbol”, and the special symbol variably displayed on the second special symbol display device 4B is also referred to as “second special symbol”. In addition, the special figure game using the first special figure is referred to as a “first special figure game”, and the special figure game using the second special figure is also referred to as a “second special figure game”.

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

  For example, on the screen of the image display device 5, in synchronization with the first special symbol game or the second special symbol game, decorative symbols (such as symbols indicating numbers) as a plurality of types of decorative identification information different from the special symbols. The variable display is performed. As an example, in the image display device 5, the decorative symbols are displayed in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R in synchronization with the first special symbol game or the second special symbol game. Is variably displayed (for example, vertical scroll display or update display).

  In addition, display areas 5HL and 5HR are also arranged on the screen of the image display device 5. The display area 5HL includes a first hold display image (here, the first special display game corresponding to the first special figure game that is put on hold). (Circle image) is displayed with left justification, and in the display area 5HR, a second hold display image (here, circle image) corresponding to the second special figure game for which execution is suspended is displayed with left justification. The The first hold display image and the second hold display image are collectively referred to as a hold display image.

  The number of reserved special figure games is also referred to as the number of special figure reserved memories. In particular, the number of holds of the first special figure game is referred to as a first special figure hold memory number. The number of holds of the second special figure game is referred to as the second special figure hold memory number. The number of first reserved display images indicates the first special figure reserved memory number, and the number of second reserved display images indicates the second special figure reserved memory number.

  In addition, a first hold indicator 25A and a second hold indicator 25B configured to include a plurality of LEDs are provided, and the first hold indicator 25A has a first special figure hold memory number depending on the number of lighted LEDs. The second hold indicator 25B displays the second special figure hold memory number according to the number of lit LEDs.

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

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

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

  A special variable winning ball device 7 is provided below the normal winning ball device 6A and the normal variable winning ball device 6B. The special variable winning ball apparatus 7 includes a large winning opening door that is opened and closed by a solenoid 82 (see FIG. 2) that is used for the large winning opening door. Form a big prize opening as an area.

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

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

  A normal symbol display 20 is provided at a predetermined position of the game board 2 (on the left side of the game area in the example shown in FIG. 1). As an example, the normal symbol display 20 is made up of 7-segment LEDs and the like, and can display variable symbols of ordinary symbols (also called “ordinary symbols” or “ordinary symbols”) as a plurality of types of ordinary identification information different from the special symbols. Do. Such variable display of normal symbols is also referred to as a general game (also referred to as a “normal game”).

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

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

  In addition to the above-described configuration, the surface of the game board 2 is provided with a windmill for changing the flow direction and speed of the game ball and a number of obstacle nails. In the lowermost part of the game area, there is provided an out port through which game balls that have not entered any winning port are taken.

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

  In the lower right position of the gaming machine frame 3, a hitting operation handle (operation knob) operated by a player or the like for launching a game ball as a game medium toward a game area by a hitting ball launching device is provided. Yes.

  At a predetermined position of the gaming machine frame 3 below the gaming area, a game ball paid out as a prize ball or a game ball lent out by a predetermined ball lending machine is held (stored) so as to be supplied to a ball hitting device. ) Is provided.

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

  The main board 11 is a main-side control board, and has a function of controlling the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1 (execution of special game, execution of ordinary game, management of hold, jackpot game state described later, etc.). The main board 11 includes a game control microcomputer 100, a switch circuit 110, a solenoid circuit 111, and the like.

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

  The CPU 103 performs a process for controlling the progress of the game (a process for realizing the function of the main board 11) by executing a program stored in the ROM 101. At this time, various data (data such as variation patterns, presentation control commands, various tables) stored in the ROM 101 are used, and the RAM 102 is used as a main memory.

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

  The I / O 105 includes, for example, an input port to which various signals (detection signals described later) are input, and various signals (the first special symbol display device 4A, the second special symbol display device 4B, the normal symbol display device 20, the first hold). And an output port for transmitting a signal for controlling (driving) the display hold device 25B, the second hold display device 25B, the general-purpose hold display device 25C, and the like, and a solenoid drive signal).

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

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

  The main board 11 (game control microcomputer 100) supplies an effect control command (a command for designating the progress of the game) to the effect control board 12 in accordance with the progress of the game as part of the control of the progress of the game. To do. The effect control command output from the main board 11 is relayed by the relay board 15 and supplied to the effect control board 12.

  The effect control board 12 is a sub-side control board independent of the main board 11, receives an effect control command, and notifies various effects (notifying the progress of the game or playing a game based on the received effect control command). And has a function of executing (including variable display of decorative symbols).

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

  The effect control CPU 120 executes a program stored in the ROM 121 to execute an effect together with the display control unit 123 (a process for realizing the above-described function of the effect control board 12 and an effect to be executed). Including the determination of At this time, various data (data such as various tables) stored in the ROM 121 is used, and the RAM 122 is used as a main memory.

  The effect control unit CPU 120 instructs the display control unit 123 to execute the image-based effect (start of execution) based on the effect control command from the main board 11 from the main board 11 during the process for executing the effect. To do. The image system effect is an effect of displaying the effect image on the image display device 5 and appropriately includes sound output according to the effect image and lighting / extinguishing of the game effect lamp 9 according to the effect image.

  The display control unit 123 includes a VDP (Video Display Processor), a CGROM (Character Generator ROM), a VRAM (Video RAM), and the like, and executes the image system effect based on the image system effect execution instruction from the effect control CPU 120. Start. In the execution of the image system effect, for example, an effect image is displayed on the image display device 5 by supplying a video signal.

  Further, the display control unit 123 supplies a sound designation signal to the sound control board 13 in order to perform sound output synchronized with the image effect and turn on / off the game effect lamp 9 when executing the image effect. Or a ramp signal is supplied to the lamp control board 14. The audio control board 13 is equipped with various circuits for driving the speakers 8L and 8R, drives the speakers 8L and 8R based on the sound designation signal, and outputs the audio designated by the sound designation signal from the speakers 8L and 8R. Let The lamp control board 14 is equipped with various circuits for driving the game effect lamp 9, drives the game effect lamp 9 based on the ramp signal, and turns on / off the game effect lamp 9 in a manner specified by the ramp signal. To do. In this way, the display control unit 123 controls audio output and lamp on / off.

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

  For example, the I / O 125 mounted on the effect control board 12 transmits an input port for receiving an effect control command transmitted from the main board 11 and the like, and various signals (video signal, sound designation signal, ramp signal). Output port.

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

  When the game ball that has flowed down the game area passes through the passing gate 41, a normal game (variable display of normal symbols) is started. In addition, when another general game is already running, or when the normal game cannot be started (such as when the start condition is not satisfied), such as during the following opening control, the maximum number of games is limited to 4 Execution is deferred. The held ordinary game is executed when a start condition for starting the ordinary game is satisfied (for example, no other ordinary game is being executed and no release control is being performed). If the game ball passes through the passing gate 41 when the number of usual reserved memories reaches the upper limit, the number of ordinary reserved memories does not increase and the passage is invalidated.

  The variable display results that are stopped (derived) in the general game include the symbols per universal symbol (for example, “7”), and the general-missing symbol (for example, “-”). There is. When the symbol per symbol is stopped and displayed, the variable display result is “per symbol”. The general-purpose losing symbol is stopped and displayed when the variable display result is “general-purpose losing”.

  In the case of “per normal”, an opening control (the second start winning opening is opened) is performed in which the movable blade piece of the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B is tilted for a predetermined period. The opening control is not performed in the case of “ordinary loss”.

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

  When the game ball enters the first start winning opening when the first special figure reserved memory number (the number of the first special figure game held) reaches the upper limit, the first special figure reserved memory number increases. If not, the entry is invalidated (there may be a prize ball). When the game ball enters the second start winning opening when the second special figure reserved memory number (the number of second special figure games held) reaches the upper limit, the second special figure reserved memory number increases. If not, the entry is invalidated (there may be a prize ball).

  The entry (winning) of a game ball that increases the number of first special figure reserved memories into the first starting winning opening is also referred to as a first starting winning. The entry (winning) of the game ball that increases the second special figure reserved memory number into the second starting winning opening is also referred to as a second starting winning. These winnings are collectively referred to simply as starting winnings.

  The variable display result that is stopped (derived) in the special figure game includes a jackpot symbol (for example, a special symbol such as “6” or “7”) and a lost symbol (for example, a special symbol such as “-”). There is. The big hit symbol is stopped and displayed when the variable display result is “big hit”. When the lost symbol is stopped and displayed, the variable display result is “lost”.

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

  In the big hit gaming state, the special winning opening formed by the special variable winning ball apparatus 7 is in an open state. The open state is until the earlier timing of an elapse timing of a predetermined period (for example, 29 seconds) or a timing until the number of game balls that have entered the winning prize opening reaches a predetermined number (for example, 9). Will continue. Such an open state is called a round game (also simply called “round”). In the big hit game state, the round game is executed a plurality of times (here, 15 times) (the big prize opening is closed in a period other than the round game).

  In the “big hit”, the big hit types “non-probability change” and “probability change” are set. When the big hit type is “non-probable change”, the big hit symbol “6” is stopped and “7” when it is “probable change”.

  In addition, “big hit” when the big hit type is “non-probability change”, “probability change”, “15R non-probability change” is also called “non-probability change big hit” and “probability change big hit”, and the big hit gaming status based on these , “Non-probability big hit game state” and “probability big hit game state”.

  After the probable big hit game state is finished, the probability that the variable display result is “big hit” (big hit probability) is controlled to be a probable state in which the probability is higher than the normal state. The probability variation state continues until the next jackpot gaming state is started. After the non-probability big hit game state is over, the probabilistic state is not controlled.

  After the probability variation big hit gaming state is finished or after the non-probability big hit gaming state is finished, the average special figure change time (period during which the special figure is changed) is controlled to the short time state when it becomes shorter than the normal state. In the short-time state, one of the end conditions is established first, that is, the predetermined number of times (in this embodiment, 100 times) the special game is executed and the next big hit game state is started. Continue until

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

  The normal state is a gaming state other than the advantageous state for the player, such as an advantageous state such as a big hit gaming state, a short-time state, a probability variation state, etc., and the variable display result in the ordinary game is “per ordinary figure”. The pachinko gaming machine 1 such as the probability and the probability that the variable display result in the special figure game will be a “big hit” is set to the initial setting state of the pachinko gaming machine 1 (for example, when a system reset is performed, This is the same control as when the return process is not executed.

  The short time state is also referred to as “high base”, and the gaming state that is not in the short time state is also referred to as “low base” or “non-short time state”. The probability variation state is also referred to as “high probability”, and the gaming state that is not the probability variation state is also referred to as “low probability”, “non-probability variation”, or the like.

(Progress of production, etc.)
In the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R provided in the image display device 5, this corresponds to the start of the first special game or the second special game. Then, variable display of decorative symbols (this is also a kind of image system effect) is started. At the timing when the variable display result (also referred to as a fixed special symbol) is stopped and displayed in the first special symbol game or the second special graphic game, the fixed decorative symbol (variable display result) becomes a variable decorative display result (variable display result). A combination of three decorative symbols) is also stopped (derived).

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

  In this embodiment, a reach effect (an example of an image effect) is executed in response to the reach mode during the variable display of decorative symbols. As reach production, normal reach, super reach A, and super reach B having different production modes are prepared. In this embodiment, the big hit expectation degree is high in the order of super reach B> super reach A> normal reach. The big hit expectation is, for example, the ratio at which the variable display result of the special figure game is “big hit”, and is also the ratio at which the display result of the variable display of the decorative symbol is “big hit”.

  When the variable display result of the special figure game is “big hit”, a definite decorative symbol that is a predetermined jackpot combination is derived on the screen of the image display device 5 as a display result of variable display of the decorative symbol ( The display result of the variable display of the decorative design is “big hit”). As an example, the same decorative design (for example, “7”, 15R non-existence at 15R probability variation big hit) on a predetermined effective line in the “left”, “middle”, “right” decorative design display areas 5L, 5C, 5R. When the probable big hit is made, “5”) is all displayed and stopped.

  When the variable display result is “losing”, the decorative display variable display mode is not the reach mode, but the display result of the variable display of the decorative pattern is the fixed display pattern of the non-reach combination (also referred to as “non-reach loss”). May stop). In addition, when the variable display result is “losing”, after the variable display mode of the decorative pattern is changed to the reach mode, a predetermined reach combination (“reach loss”) that is not a big hit combination is displayed as the display result of the variable display of the decorative pattern. The fixed decorative symbol (also called) may be stopped and displayed.

  In this embodiment, as another image system effect, for example, a notice effect or the like for notifying the expected degree of jackpot is executed during variable display of decorative symbols. In addition, during the big hit game state, for example, a big hit effect for informing the big hit game state is executed as an image-type effect. In addition, for example, when a special figure game or the like is not being executed, a demonstration (demonstration) image is displayed as an image system effect. In addition, as an image effect, a background image described later (particularly, an image constituting a background of other effects such as variable display of decorative symbols) is reproduced, and a switching effect and a notification effect described later are executed.

(Main operations of pachinko machine 1)
(Main operations of the main board 11)
On the main board 11, the CPU 103 executes a game control timer interrupt process. The game control timer interrupt processing is performed every time a timer interrupt is generated by an interrupt request signal from a CTC (counter / timer circuit) (not shown) that is supplied every predetermined period (for example, 2 milliseconds) (at an interrupt request signal supply interval). It is executed every predetermined time (2 ms). In the game control timer interrupt process, the CPU 103 executes a switch process, a game random number update process, a special symbol process, a normal symbol process process, a command control process, etc., and the game control timer interrupt process is repeatedly executed for each timer interrupt. As a result, game control and the like are realized.

  In the switch processing, each switch is determined by determining whether a detection signal is input from various switches such as the gate switch 21, the first start port switch 22A, the second start port switch 22B, and the count switch 23 via the switch circuit 110. It is determined for each switch whether or not it is turned on (that is, whether or not a game ball has entered or passed). The result of this determination is temporarily stored in the RAM 102 or the like, and is used in special symbol process processing or normal symbol process processing.

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

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

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

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

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

  Command 8000 (H) is a first variation start designation command for designating (notifying) the start of the first special figure game, that is, the start of variable display (fluctuation) of the first special figure. The command 8001 (H) is a second change start designation command for designating (notifying) the start of the second special figure game, that is, the start of the variable display (fluctuation) of the second special figure. The first variation start designation command and the second variation start designation command may be collectively referred to as a variation start designation command. The command is transmitted when the special figure game is started.

  Command 81XX (H) is a variable pattern change pattern (special figure or decoration symbol change time (special figure change time) and variable display result display time (stop symbol display time) This is a variation pattern designation command for designating (notifying) a variable designating pattern designating symbol. In the command “XX” (EXT data, the same for “XX”), a numerical value indicating each variation pattern is set (for example, “00” for the variation pattern PA1-1). The command is transmitted when the special figure game is started.

  The command 8CXX (H) is a display result designation command for designating (notifying) whether or not to make a big hit and a big hit type (that is, a variable display result). A numerical value indicating the display result is set to “XX” of the command (for example, “00” for “losing”, “01” for “non-probable big hit”, etc.). The command is transmitted when the special figure game is started.

  The command 8F00 (H) is a symbol determination designation command for designating (notifying) the end of the special figure game (that is, deriving a variable display result). The symbol confirmation designation command designates that the variable display (fluctuation) of the decorative symbol is to be ended and the variable display result is derived. This command is transmitted at the end of the special figure game.

  The command A000 (H) is a hit start designation command for designating (notifying) the start of the big hit gaming state (also the start of fanfare). The fanfare is an effect that constitutes a part of the big hit during the big hit gaming state, is executed at the start of the big hit gaming state, and notifies that the big hit gaming state has been entered. This command is transmitted at the start of the jackpot gaming state.

  Command A300 (H) is a hit end specifying command for specifying (notifying) the end of the big hit gaming state (which is also the start of ending). Ending is an effect that is executed at the end of the big hit gaming state (after the effect during the big hit) and notifies the end of the big hit gaming state. This command is sent at the end of the last round game.

  Command A5XX (H) is a gaming state designation command for designating (notifying) the gaming state. A numerical value indicating the current gaming state is set in “XX” of the command (for example, “00” in the normal state (low probability low base state), “01” in the low probability high base state, etc.). The command is transmitted at the start of a special figure game.

  The command C000 (H) is a first special figure reserved memory number addition designation command for designating (notifying) that one first special figure reserved memory number, which is the number of held first special figure games, is added. Command C100 (H) is a second special figure reserved memory number addition designation command for designating (notifying) that one second special figure reserved memory number, which is the number of held special figure games, is added. These commands may be collectively referred to as a special figure reserved memory number addition designation command. The special figure reserved memory number addition designation command is transmitted when a start prize is generated (at the start prize).

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

  The command C4XX (H) is a first prize determination result designation command for designating a determination result of a pre-reading determination (start prize determination) performed when the first start prize is generated. The command C5XX (H) is a second winning determination result designation command for designating a determination result of a pre-reading determination (start winning determination) performed when the second starting prize is generated. A numerical value indicating the determination result of the prefetch determination is set in “XX” of the command (details will be described later). These commands may be collectively referred to as winning determination result designation commands. The winning determination result designation command is transmitted when a start winning is generated (at the start winning).

  Command C600 (H) is a customer waiting demo designation command for designating display of a demo image. This command is transmitted when the special game is not executed.

(Special symbol process)
FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the special symbol process. In this special symbol process, the CPU 103 first executes a start winning determination process (for example, FIG. 5) (step S101). After executing the start winning determination process, the CPU 103 selects and executes one of the processes in steps S110 to S117 according to the value of the special figure process flag provided in the RAM 102.

(Starting winning determination process: step S101)
The CPU 103 determines whether or not the first start port switch 22A is ON (refer to the determination result of the switch process. The same is true for the ON determination of various switches) (step S201). When ON (step S201; Yes), the first special figure reserved memory number (for example, counted by a first reserved memory number counter provided in the RAM 102. The same applies hereinafter) is a predetermined upper limit value (for example, “4”). It is determined whether or not (step S202). If the predetermined upper limit is not reached (step S202; No), the buffer value of the start port buffer (start port buffer value) provided in the RAM 102 is updated to 1 (step S203), assuming that the first start winning is generated. ).

  When the first start port switch 22A is off (step S201; No), when the first special figure reservation storage number is the upper limit value (step S202; No), it is determined whether the second start port switch 22B is on. If it is ON (step S204; Yes), the second special figure reserved memory number (for example, counted by the first reserved memory number counter provided in the RAM 102. The same applies hereinafter) is set to a predetermined upper limit value ( For example, it is determined whether it is “4”) (step S205). If the predetermined upper limit is not reached (step S205; No), the start port buffer value provided in the RAM 102 is updated to 2 (step S206), assuming that the first start winning has occurred. When the second start port switch 22B is off (step S204; No), or when the predetermined upper limit value is reached (step S205; Yes), the start winning determination process is terminated.

  After steps S203 and S206, if the starting port buffer value is 1 (the first starting winning prize is generated), the CPU 103 increases the first special figure holding memory number by 1 and if the starting port buffer value is 2 (first 2 start winning), the second special figure reservation storage number is increased by 1 (the count value of the counter is increased by 1) (step S207).

  After that, a special figure display result (variable display result of a special figure game) is selected from random numbers updated by a random counter provided in the random number circuit 104 or the RAM 102 (a value is updated by a game random number update process). ) The random number value MR1 for determination, the random value MR2 for determining the jackpot type, and the random value MR3 for determining the variation pattern are extracted (step S209). Each random value extracted in this way is stored as reserved data in the first special figure storage unit (provided in the RAM 102. When the start port buffer value is 1) or the second special figure storage unit (provided in the RAM 102). It is set (stored) at the head of the empty entry when the mouth buffer value is 2 (step S210).

  Each of the first special figure reservation storage unit and the second special figure reservation storage unit is associated with, for example, the reservation numbers “1” to “4” in the order in which the start winnings are generated (the detection order of the game balls), and the random number value MR1. MR3 is stored as pending data until the number of stored data reaches a predetermined upper limit (for example, “4”). In this embodiment, as shown above, by storing the hold data in the first special figure hold storage unit or the second special figure hold storage unit, the special figure game that has not yet been started (execution is put on hold). (In particular, information relating to the special figure game. Here, the hold data) is stored as the hold memory.

  Thereafter, a winning random number determination process is performed (step S211). FIG. 6 is a flowchart of an example of a winning random number determination process. The CPU 103 first determines whether or not the big hit flag is on (step S402). The big hit flag is a flag that is provided in the RAM 102 and is turned on after the variable display result is determined as “big hit” until the big hit gaming state ends.

  When the big hit flag is not on (step S402; No), it is determined whether or not the current gaming state is a highly accurate and high base state (step S403). The gaming state can be specified by a probability variation flag and a time reduction flag provided in the RAM 102. The probability variation flag is turned on when in the probability variation state and turned off when in the probability variation state. The time reduction flag is turned on in the time reduction state and turned off in the non-time reduction state. When both the probability change flag and the time reduction flag are in the on state, the gaming state is a highly accurate and high base state.

  When it is in the highly accurate and high base state (step S403; Yes), it is determined whether the start port buffer value is 2 (that is, whether the second start winning prize is generated) (step S404A), and in the case of 2 (step S404A; Yes). ), It is determined whether or not the remaining time (the number of special-purpose games that can be executed in the time-short state. Counted by the time-count counter provided in the RAM 102) is 4 or less (step S404B).

  If it is not less than 4 times (when the number of remaining time reductions is more than 4) (step S404B; No), the special figure that is currently reserved based on the random number values MR1 and MR3 stored in the second special figure reservation storage part this time It is determined whether the variable display result of the game (a special game executed by the random number MR1 or the like) is “big hit” or what the fluctuation pattern of the special game is (step S405). Also called judgment.) Specifically, a big hit lottery at the time of probability change in a special symbol normal process (step S110) described later, a process similar to a lottery of a variation pattern in a later-described variation pattern setting process (step S111) (the table used in each lottery) The variable display result and the variation pattern are determined by comparison with the random number value, and the variable display result and the variation pattern of the special figure game held this time are determined (the determination result is the same as the lottery result). become).

  After that, the determination result in step S405 is that the variable display result of the special figure game put on hold this time is “big hit” and the variation pattern is “super reach” (PB3-3 or PB3-4 described later). It is determined whether or not there is (step S406). In the case of “big hit” and “super reach” (step S406; Yes), the transmission setting of the second winning determination result designation command (C502) for designating that fact (super reach (big hit)) as the determination result is performed (step 502). S407).

  When the determination result in step S405 is “big hit” and not “super reach” (step S406; No), the determination result in step S405 is a change in the variable display result of the special figure game held this time, which is “lost”. It is determined whether the pattern designates “super reach” (PA3-3 or PA3-4 described later) (step S408). In the case of “losing” and “super reach” (step S408; Yes), the transmission setting of the second winning determination result specifying command (C503) for specifying the fact (super reach (losing)) as the determination result is performed (step 408). S409).

  When the determination result in step S405 is “losing” and not “super reach” (step S408; No), the determination result in step S405 is a variable display result of the special figure game put on hold this time, and changes. It is determined whether or not the pattern designates “non-reach” (PA2-1 described later) (step S410). If “losing” is “non-reach” (step S410; Yes), transmission setting of the second winning determination result specifying command (C501) for specifying that (non-reach loss) as a determination result is performed (step S411).

  When the big hit flag is on (step S402; Yes), when the high-accuracy base state is not established (step S403; No), when the start port buffer value is not 2 (step S404A; No), the remaining time is not less than 4 times In the case (step S404B; Yes), when the determination result in step S405 is “losing” and not “non-reach” (step S410; No), “other” (including no determination) is designated as the determination result. Transmission setting of the time determination result designation command (C400) (when the start port buffer value is 1) or the second winning time determination result designation command (C500) (when the start port buffer value is 2) is set (step S412).

  After step S407, S409, S411, or S412, the first special figure reserved memory number addition designation command (when the start port buffer value is 1) or the second special figure reserved memory number addition designation command (start port buffer value) Is set to 2 (step S415), and the winning random number determination process is terminated.

  In the present embodiment, the notification effect is executed based on the determination result of the prefetch determination as will be described later. However, in the winning random number determination process, in the high-accuracy high-base state, and in the second start winning prize Since the pre-reading determination is performed, the notification effect is executed when the high-accuracy and high-base state is set, and when the target (a special game to be subjected to the pre-reading determination or the notification effect) is the second special game. The Further, since the pre-reading determination is not performed when the first start winning is generated, the first winning determination result specifying command is always a command for specifying “other”. Similarly, the determination result designation command at the time of the second prize in a state other than the high accuracy and high base state is always a command for designating “other”. Moreover, since the prefetch determination is limited at the time when the high-accuracy high-base state ends (four special game games before the high-base state ends), the notification effect is just before the high-accuracy high-base state ends. Execution in is restricted (including prohibition, same for restriction). In addition, since the prefetch determination is not performed even when a big hit occurs (including during the big hit gaming state), the execution of the notification effect is restricted when the big hit occurs.

  After step S211, the start port buffer value is determined (step S212). If “1”, the start buffer value is cleared (set to 0) (step S214), and the process of step S204 is performed. If the start port buffer value is “2”, the start buffer value is cleared (step S213), and the start winning determination process is terminated.

(Special symbol normal processing: Step S110)
The special symbol normal process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is “0”. In the special symbol normal process, the CPU 103 executes the second special figure game when the second special figure holding memory number is other than “0”, so that the top area (holding number “ The numerical data of the random number values MR1 to MR3 stored in the storage area corresponding to “1” is read. The read numerical data is stored in the random number buffer for fluctuation in the RAM 102 and temporarily stored. In this case, 1 is subtracted from the second special figure reservation storage number, and the stored content in the second special figure reservation storage unit is shifted. For example, the second special figure hold storage unit shifts the hold data stored in the storage area lower than the hold number “1” (the storage area corresponding to the hold numbers “2” to “4”) one entry at a time. Let At this time, the variable special figure designation buffer value, which is the stored value of the fluctuation special figure designation buffer provided in the RAM 102, is set to “2” (a value indicating that the special figure game executed this time is the second special figure game). Update.

  When the second special figure reserved memory number is “0”, it is determined whether or not the first special figure reserved memory number is “0”, and when the first special figure reserved memory number is other than “0”. In order to execute the first special figure game, the numerical data of the random number values MR1 to MR3 stored in the head area (the storage area corresponding to the holding number “1”) of the first special figure reservation storage unit is read. The read numerical data is stored in the random number buffer for variation and temporarily stored. In this case, 1 is subtracted from the first special figure reservation storage number, and the stored contents in the first special figure reservation storage unit are shifted as in the case of the second special figure reservation storage unit. Further, the variable special figure designation buffer value is updated to “1” (a value indicating that the special figure game executed this time is the first special figure game). Through the series of processes, the second special game is executed with priority over the first special game.

  After updating the variable special figure designation buffer value, the variable display result (special figure display result) of the special figure game is determined by lottery as either “big hit” or “losing” (big hit lottery). As an example, the first special figure display result determination table prepared in the ROM 101 (referred to when the non-probability change state (probability change flag is off)) or the second special figure display result determination table (probability change state (probability change flag is ON). ) Is referenced. In each special figure display result determination table, a numerical value (decision value) to be compared with the random value MR1 for determining the special figure display result is assigned to the special figure display result of “big hit” or “losing” as the determination result. Yes. The CPU 103 determines the special figure display result by referring to the first or second special figure display result determination table based on the random number value MR1 read to the fluctuation random number buffer (the decision value that matches the random number value). The assigned decision result is taken as the current decision result.) It should be noted that the CPU 103 determines the special figure display result as “big hit” at a higher determination rate when in the probability variation state than when not in the probability variation state. “Lottery” refers to determining a determination result randomly using such a random value and a table.

  CPU103 determines whether the special figure display result determined by the process of step S239 is "big hit". In the case of “big hit”, the big hit flag provided in the RAM 102 is set to the on state, and the big hit type (“probability change” or “non-probability change”) is determined by lottery. In the lottery, a random number MR2 read to the random number buffer for variation and a table (provided in the ROM 101) having “probability change” and “non-probability change” as determination results are used. The determination ratio of each of “probability change” and “non-probability change” is arbitrary (for example, “probability change” is 60% and “non-probability change” is 40%). Thereafter, the CPU 103 stores the determined jackpot type in a jackpot type buffer provided in the RAM 102.

  When the special figure display result is not “big hit” or when the big hit type is stored, a fixed special symbol to be a variable display result (special figure display result) of the special figure game executed this time is determined. Specifically, when the big hit flag is off, the lost symbol (“−”) is determined as the confirmed special symbol. On the other hand, when the big hit flag is on, the big hit symbol (“6” (non-probable change) or “7” (probable change)) corresponding to the big hit type stored in the big hit type buffer is determined as the confirmed special symbol. Thereafter, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to “1”, and the special symbol normal process is terminated.

  When the number of reserved memories of the first special figure game is “0”, the special symbol normal process is ended after performing the demo display setting. In the demonstration display setting, it is determined whether or not the customer waiting demonstration designation command has been transmitted. At this time, if the transmission has been completed, the demonstration display setting is ended as it is. On the other hand, if it has not been transmitted, after setting the transmission of the customer waiting demonstration designation command, the demonstration display setting is terminated.

(Variation pattern setting process: Step S111)
The variation pattern setting process is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is “1”. First, the CPU 103 determines whether or not the big hit flag is on. When the big hit flag is on, the fluctuation pattern at the time of the big hit is determined by lottery. On the other hand, when the big hit flag is OFF, the variation pattern at the time of losing is determined by lottery. The variation pattern designates a special symbol variation time, a stop symbol display time, and a variable display pattern for decorative symbols. The special figure change time is a time for changing the special figure. The stop symbol display time is the time for displaying the variable display result (special display result) of the special figure game. Since the next special symbol game is started after the stop symbol display time elapses, the variation in the special symbol variation time and the display of the variable display result in the stop symbol display time may be collectively referred to as one variation. .

  FIG. 7 shows the variation pattern used in this embodiment. In this embodiment, there are PA1-1, PA2-1, PA3-2 to PA3-4 as fluctuation patterns at the time of loss. Moreover, there are PB3-2 to PB3-4 as a variation pattern at the time of big hit.

  PA1-1 and PA2-1 specify non-reach. PA2-1 is a pattern for time reduction (with shortening) (a pattern selected at the time of time reduction) in which the special figure variation time and the stop symbol display time are shorter than normal (PA1-1). PA3-2 and PB3-2 specify execution of normal reach, PA3-3 and PB3-3 specify execution of super reach A, and PA3-4 and PB3-4 specify execution of super reach B To do.

  In the lottery of the variation pattern at the time of big hit and the variation pattern lottery at the time of loss, the random number value MR3 read to the random number buffer for variation is used. Further, in the lottery of the variation pattern at the time of the big hit, a table (prepared in the ROM 101) that realizes the determination ratio of FIG. 8 is used, and one of PB3-2 to PB3-4 is determined (selected) ) Further, in the lottery of the fluctuation pattern at the time of non-short time (when the time flag is off) and lost, a table (prepared in the ROM 101) that realizes the determination ratio of FIG. 9A is used, and PA1-1, PA3 Any one of −2 to PA3-4 is determined (selected) as the current variation pattern. Further, in the lottery of the fluctuation pattern at the time of short time (when the time short flag is on) and lost, a table (prepared in the ROM 101) that realizes the determination ratio of FIG. 9B is used, and PA2-1, PA3- Any one of 2 to PA3-4 is determined (selected) as the current variation pattern.

  Referring to FIGS. 8 and 9, the determination ratio of the variation pattern is higher in the order of PA3−2> PA3-3> PA3-4 when lost. The big hit is higher in the order of PB3-4> PB3-3> PB3-2. For this reason, the big hit expectation degree is high in the order of super reach B> super reach A> normal reach. Further, PA2-1 (see FIG. 7) with a short special figure variation time is selected in the short-time state, so that in the short-time state, the average special-pattern fluctuation time is shorter than in the non-time-short state. In addition, since only PA2-1 is selected as the fluctuation pattern of non-reach loss in the time reduction state, the time of one fluctuation of non-reach loss in the time reduction (special figure fluctuation time + stop symbol display time) is 2.5. Second + 0.5 seconds = fixed at 3.0 seconds.

  After the lottery, a timer initial value corresponding to the special figure variation time (see FIG. 7) corresponding to the variation pattern determined this time is set in a predetermined timer in the RAM 102. Further, the stop symbol display time corresponding to the variation pattern determined this time is stored in a predetermined storage area of the RAM 102. Thereafter, if the variable special symbol designation buffer value is “1”, a drive signal for executing the first special symbol game is transmitted to the first special symbol display device 4A. On the other hand, if the variable special symbol designation buffer value is “2”, a drive signal for executing the second special symbol game is transmitted to the second special symbol display device 4B. Thereby, a special figure game is started.

  Thereafter, a transmission start command (various commands for designating the result of determination, the first or second special figure holding memory number after 1 subtraction, etc.) is set as a command for starting execution of the special figure game. If the fluctuation special figure designation buffer value is “1”, the fluctuation start command is a first fluctuation start designation command, a fluctuation pattern designation command, a display result designation command, a first special figure reserved memory number subtraction designation command, a gaming state If the variable special figure designation buffer value is “2” including the designation command (EXT data corresponding to the state of the probability variation flag and the time reduction flag is set), the second variation start designation command, variation pattern designation command, display A result designation command, a second special figure reserved memory number subtraction designation command, and a game state designation command (EXT data corresponding to the state of the probability change flag and the time-short flag is set). Thereafter, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “2”, and then the variation pattern setting process is terminated.

(Special symbol variation processing: Step S112)
The special symbol variation process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is “2”. The CPU 103 decrements the timer value of the predetermined timer by 1, and determines whether the timer value after the decrement has become 0 (whether the special figure variation time has elapsed). The process ends after supplying a drive signal for executing the game or the second special symbol game to the first special symbol display device 4A or the second special symbol display device 4B to change the special symbol. When the timer value becomes 0, the timing for deriving the variable display result is reached, so a predetermined drive signal is supplied to the first special symbol display device 4A or the second special symbol display device 4B, and this time determined above. The display of the variable display result ("-" for "loss", "6" for "non-probability change", "7" for "probability change") is stopped (derived) and is stored in the predetermined storage area. The timer value corresponding to the display time is set as an initial value in the predetermined timer, the symbol determination designation command is set to be transmitted, and the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “3”. By executing step S112 repeatedly every time a timer interrupt occurs, the execution of the special game is realized.

(Special symbol stop process: Step S113)
The special symbol stop process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is “3”. The CPU 103 decrements the timer value of the predetermined timer by 1 and determines whether the timer value after the decrement has become 0 (whether the stop symbol display time has elapsed). (The drive signal for maintaining the display of the variable display result symbol may be supplied to the first special symbol display device 4A or the second special symbol display device 4B). When the timer value of the predetermined timer is 0 (that is, when the display of the variable display result in the stop symbol display time is finished) and the big hit flag is on (at the big hit), the time reduction flag Reset the probability variation flag. After that, transmission setting of the hit start designation command is performed, the special figure process flag is updated to “4”, and this processing is terminated. When the timer value of the predetermined timer is 0 (that is, when the display of the variable display result at the stop symbol display time is finished), and when the big hit flag is off (when lost) and the time is short Then, it is determined whether or not a predetermined number of special figure games that can be executed in the short time state have been executed (the number of special figure games is counted by a short time number counter provided in the RAM 102), and the predetermined number of special figure games are executed. If it is, the time flag is reset to off (in this case, the game state designation command for specifying the gaming state after the time flag is turned off may be set), and the value of the special figure process flag The process is terminated by setting “0” to “0”. When the timer value of the predetermined timer is 0 (that is, when the display of the variable display result in the stop symbol display time is finished), and the game is not “short” and not in the time-saving state, a predetermined number of special game Even if is not executed, this process is terminated by setting the value of the special figure process flag to “0”.

(Pre-treatment for jackpot release: Step S114)
The big hit release pre-processing is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is “4”. The CPU 103 may measure the elapsed time since the transmission setting of the hit start designating command (the timer provided in the RAM 102 or the like may be measured. The same applies to other elapsed times). It is determined whether or not (waiting time from the start to end of fanfare in the big hit gaming state) has been reached, and if not reached, the big hit pre-release processing is ended. When the fanfare waiting time is reached, the special prize process flag is updated to “5” by performing a process (opening of a solenoid drive signal) for opening the big prize opening in order to start a round game. By repeating step S114 every time a timer interrupt occurs, waiting until the start timing of the round game (waiting until the end of the fanfare), opening of the big prize opening, and the like are realized.

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

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

(Big hit end processing: Step S117)
The big hit end process is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is “7”. In the jackpot end process, whether the elapsed time from the end of the last round game has reached a preset ending waiting time (a time corresponding to the ending execution time executed on the effect control board 12), that is, the ending Determine if the waiting time has ended. When the ending waiting time has not ended, since the ending has not ended, the jackpot end processing is ended as it is. When the ending waiting time ends, the ending ends. Next, it is determined whether or not the current jackpot type is “probable change”. The jackpot type is stored in the jackpot type buffer. When the big hit type is “probability change”, the probability change flag is set to ON. Regardless of the type of jackpot, the time-count counter is set as an initial value (the number of special figure games that can be executed in the time-saving state, for example, 100) (the count value of the time-count counter is, for example, a special symbol stop process) 1 is subtracted every time, so that the number of special figure games executed in the time reduction state is counted, and it can be determined whether a predetermined number of special figure games that can be executed in the time reduction state are executed), and the time reduction flag is turned on Put it in a state. Thereafter, the big hit flag is turned off, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “0”, and this processing is terminated.

(Other)
In the series of processes described above, each round game is realized by repeatedly executing S115 and S116 each time a timer interrupt occurs after the big winning opening is opened in step S114. Also, when updating the value of the special figure process flag to “0”, it means that one special figure game has been completed, so various data such as timers and various flag states (for the next special figure game). If you don't want to carry it over, reset it appropriately.

(Main operations of the production control board 12)
The effect control CPU 120 of the effect control board 12 executes effect control main processing. This process is performed every time a timer interrupt is generated by an interrupt request signal from a CTC (counter / timer circuit) (not shown) supplied every predetermined period (for example, 10 milliseconds) (a predetermined time (interrupt request signal supply interval)). Every 10 ms). When the effect control CPU 120 receives an effect control command from a predetermined input port of the I / O 125 separately from the effect control main process, the effect control command provided in, for example, the RAM 122 as the received command. Store in receive buffer.

  The effect control main process includes an effect control command analysis process, an effect control process, and an effect random number process. In the effect control command analysis process and the like, the effect control CPU 120 reads and analyzes the received command stored in the effect control command reception buffer, identifies which effect control command the received command is, and performs the analysis. Processing corresponding to the specified effect control command is performed (details will be described later). The effect control process is a process (including execution of an effect and determination of its mode) that instructs the display control unit 123 to execute the effect in accordance with the effect control command (details will be described later). The effect random number update process is a process of updating the effect random number value used for effect control by software.

(Processing such as production control command analysis)
The effect control CPU 120 analyzes the received command (the effect control command received by the effect control board 12) stored in the effect control command reception buffer in the effect control command analysis and the like (for example, confirms the MODE data). ), Specifying which effect control command the received command is, and performing processing according to the specified effect control command. When there are a plurality of received commands, processing such as effect control command analysis is performed for each command.

  For example, the received (specified) effect control command is a first variation start designation command, a second variation start designation command, a symbol confirmation designation command, a hit start designation command, a hit end designation command, the first special figure holding memory number If it is an addition designation command, a second special figure reserved memory number addition designation command, a first special figure pending memory number subtraction designation command, or a second special figure pending memory number subtraction designation command, it corresponds to each command. Among the reception flags provided in the RAM 122, the reception flag corresponding to the command is turned on. For example, if the received effect control command is the first variation start designation command, the first variation start designation command reception flag is turned on.

  When the received effect control command is a variation pattern designation command or a display result designation command, the command is stored in the storage area corresponding to the command among the command storage areas provided in the RAM 122 corresponding to the commands. Is stored. For example, if the received effect control command is a variation pattern designation command, the variation pattern designation command is stored in the variation pattern designation command storage area.

  The state of each reception flag and the command stored in each storage area are used for reception confirmation in the production control process. These commands shall be deleted at an appropriate timing (such as timing at which reception confirmation of the target command is no longer necessary).

  If the received effect control command is a gaming state designation command, a high-accuracy flag (a flag that is turned on when the RAM is in the RAM variation state) provided in the RAM 122 according to the gaming state designated by the command, Switches the state of the base flag (the flag that is turned on in the short-time state). In addition, when either the high-accuracy flag or the high base flag is changed (when the game state is changed), an instruction to display a background image corresponding to the changed game state (change the background image) To the display control unit 123. In response to the instruction, the display control unit 123 changes the background image. In this way, the background image displayed on the image display device 5 (the image constituting the background such as the variable display of decorative symbols) is changed according to the gaming state.

  When the received effect control command is the first special figure reserved memory number addition designation command, an instruction to increase the first reserved display image by one is supplied to the display control unit 123. When the received effect control command is the second special figure hold memory number addition designation command, an instruction to increase the second hold display image by one is supplied to the display control unit 123. The display control unit 123 performs display control to increase the first hold display image or the second hold display image by one.

  When the received effect control command is the first winning determination result designation command, the command is stored in the first starting winning command buffer (FIG. 10A) provided in the RAM 122. When the received effect control command is a second winning determination result designation command, the command is stored in a second start winning command buffer (FIG. 10B) provided in the RAM 122. The first start prize command buffer and the second start prize command buffer have first or second hold display numbers “1” to “4” in the order of reception (start prize order) (first special figure hold storage unit). And corresponding to the holding number of the second special figure holding storage unit), the first or second winning determination result specifying command is stored. Each command stored in the first start winning command buffer and the second starting win command buffer corresponds to the reserved special game (and decorative symbol variable display). The first start winning command buffer and the second start winning command buffer store switching effect execution information and notification effect execution information corresponding to the numbers of the first hold display number and the second hold display number, respectively. A storage area is also provided (these will be described later). Since the first winning determination result designation command is not used to execute the notification effect, the first starting winning command buffer need not be provided. Further, it is not necessary to provide a storage area for replacement effect execution information and notification effect execution information in the first start winning prize command buffer.

  When the received effect control command is a customer waiting demonstration designation command, an instruction to execute a demonstration effect, which is an image effect for displaying a demonstration image, is supplied to the display control unit 123. The display control unit 123 receives the execution instruction and executes a demonstration effect (for example, counts 30 seconds after receiving the execution instruction, and supplies a video signal of the demo image to the image display device 5 after 30 seconds. And then start displaying the demo image).

(Production control process)
In the effect control process (see FIG. 11), the effect control CPU 120 executes the notification effect / switching effect execution setting process (step S161), and then the value of the effect process flag provided in the RAM 122 (initially “0”). ”), Any one of the following processes in steps S170 to S175 is selected and executed. In the following processing, command reception confirmation (determination of reception in step S671, etc.) is performed. The command reception confirmation is performed based on whether or not the corresponding reception flag is turned on or whether or not the command is stored in the corresponding storage area. For example, when the first variation start designation command reception flag is on, it can be determined that the first variation start designation command has been received. For example, when a command is stored in the variation pattern designation command storage area, it can be determined that a variation pattern designation command has been received. In the following, the special display game and the variable display of the decorative design are collectively referred to as variable display (the special display game and the variable display of the decorative design are synchronized, and both of them can be regarded as one. it can).

(Notification effect / switching effect execution setting process: step S161)
The notification effect / switching effect execution setting process (FIG. 12) is a process for setting the execution of the notification effect and the switching effect. The notification effect is executed in relation to the background image displayed on the image display device 5 (the background image switched according to the gaming state as described above). The background image is reproduced as a series of videos. The switching effect is an effect of switching the reproduction position of the background image so that the background image becomes a desired reproduction position (reproduction position of a specific scene described later) at the execution timing of the notification effect. Here, background images, notification effects, and switching effects will be described.

(background image)
As shown in FIG. 13, the background image is reproduced as a series of videos in which a plurality of figures sequentially move from right to left (videos in which a band-like image on which figures are arranged moves from right to left). Is done. The last (right end of the belt-like image) and the first (left edge of the belt-like image) of the background image for one cycle are connected, and the background image is displayed in a loop. That is, the background image is repeatedly reproduced (loop reproduction) as a series of videos.

(Notification production)
The notification effect is executed when the background image (a series of videos) being played becomes a specific scene (when the playback position of the series of videos becomes a specific position). As the notification effects, there are notification effects A to C, and the notification effects A are executed when the playback position of the series of videos becomes the playback position A5 (position where the specific scene A is played back and displayed). B is executed when the playback position of the series of videos reaches the playback position B5 (position where the specific scene B is played back and displayed), and the notification effect C is performed when the playback position of the series of videos is the playback position C5 ( This is executed when the specific scene C is at a position where it is reproduced and displayed (FIGS. 14 and 15).

  The notification effect A is an effect that rapidly increases the graphic image G1 displayed in the specific scene A (see FIG. 15A) (see also FIG. 23F). The notification effect B is an effect that rapidly increases the graphic image G2 displayed in the specific scene B (see FIG. 15B). The notification effect C is an effect that rapidly increases the graphic image G3 displayed in the specific scene C (see FIG. 15C). These notification effects are linked to (develop) super reach.

  The notification effect is executed during the variable display in which the super reach is executed regardless of the type, and more specifically, the notification effect is started 4 seconds after the start of the variable display (see also FIG. 21 and the like). This execution timing is fixed. Therefore, a specific scene needs to be displayed (reproduced) 4 seconds after the start of variable display. Note that the variable display for executing the notification effect is also called a target.

(Switching production)
The switching effect is performed in advance with the playback position of the background image so that the playback position of the background image at the execution timing of the notification effect (after 4 seconds from the start of variable display of the target) comes to the playback position for displaying the specific scene. This is an effect of switching to a playback position before a playback position for displaying a specific scene. The switching effect is an effect of switching the playback position of the background image after hiding the background image by displaying the sandstorm image (after reducing the visibility) (that is, after displaying the sandstorm image, the background image (See also Fig. 23). The execution timing of the switching effect is set in advance, and the execution is started simultaneously with the start of the variable display that is executed first after it is determined that the notification effect is executed. The execution time of the switching effect is 0.5 seconds, and the playback position of the background image is switched at the end of the switching effect (see also FIG. 21 and the like). Accordingly, the playback position of the background image is switched at a timing of 0.5 seconds from the start of the variable display that is executed first (see also FIG. 21 and the like). From such a relationship, the playback position (switching destination playback position or scene) switched by the switching effect differs depending on the number of holdings of the second special figure game before the variable display for executing the notification effect and the type of the notification effect ( This will be described later).

(Processing contents of notification effect / switching effect execution setting process)
The effect control CPU 120 determines whether or not a second special figure reserved memory number addition designation command has been received (step S671). When the command is received (when the corresponding reception flag is ON) (step S671; No), the notification effect execution flag prepared in the RAM 122 (the flag that is turned on when the notification effect is executed) is ON. It is determined whether or not there is (step S672). If it is not on (step S672; No), the notification effect can be executed, and therefore, the second hold display number with the largest second among the second winning determination result specifying commands stored in the second starting winning command buffer is stored. (2) Whether or not the winning determination result designation command (the most recently received command, hereinafter referred to as a judgment target command) designates “super reach (big hit)” or “super reach (losing)” (C502 or C503). Determination is made (step S674).

  When the determination target command designates “super reach (big hit)” or “super reach (lack)” (step S674; Yes), it is determined whether the second hold display number of the command is “1” (step S674). Step S675A). If it is not “1” (step S675A; No), the second winning determination result designation command before the command (if the second hold display number of the command is “4”, “1” to It is determined whether all “3” commands designate “non-reach lose” (step S675B).

  When the second hold display number is “1” (step S675A; Yes), or when “non-reach loss” is specified (step S675B; Yes), the notification effect and the switching effect are determined to be executed and executed. The type of notification effect to be performed (any one of notification effects A to C) is determined by lottery (step S676). In the lottery, the random number circuit 124 or the random number value for effect updated in the effect random number update process, and the first table for determining the notification effect type prepared in the ROM 121 (command to be determined) Or “second reach” (when the command to be judged designates “super reach (losing)”) or the second table is used. In the first table and the second table, notification effects A to C are set as determination results, and for example, the determination ratio of FIG. 16 is realized. As shown in FIG. 16, the jackpot expectation degree is in the order of notification effect C> notification effect B> notification effect A.

  Thereafter, the type of notification effect determined in step S676, the second hold display number of the command to be determined (the number of variable displays to be executed before the variable display (target) corresponding to the command to be determined (the number before the target) 2), the playback position (switching destination playback position) of the background image to be switched by the switching effect is determined (step S678), as described above (see also FIG. 21 and the like). The execution timing of the background image is fixed at 4 seconds after the start of the variable display of the target, while the switching timing of the background image after the execution of the switching effect is executed first after the end of the processing determined to execute the notification effect. This is the timing 0.5 seconds after the start timing of variable display (variable display corresponding to the command whose second hold display number is 1). The variable display executed before the time is none or all non-reach loss fluctuations (special figure fluctuation time + stop symbol display time = total 3 seconds fluctuation). Is a position that is T hours backward from the playback position of the specific scene, and T = H (the number of variable displays executed before the target (a value obtained by subtracting the second hold display number by 1)) × 3.0 (non-reach loss) +0.5 (Time from the start timing of the variable display for executing the switching effect until the playback position is switched) -4.0 (Time from the start of the variable display of the target to the execution start timing of the notification effect) ).

  FIG. 17 shows the relationship between the type of notification effect, the second hold display number of the command to be determined, the playback position of the switching destination, and the playback position (reproduction position of the specific scene) when the notification effect is executed (see also FIG. 14 and the like). .

  When the second hold display number of the command to be determined is “1” (when the number of hold of the second special figure game before the target is 0), the playback position of the switching destination by the switching effect is the playback position A5 (notification effect). A), reproduction position B5 (when notification effect B is executed), reproduction position C5 (when notification effect C is executed), respectively, reproduction positions A4, B4, and B4 that are 3.5 seconds back Become.

  When the second hold display number of the determination target command is “2” (when the number of hold of the second special figure game before the target is 1), the playback position of the switching destination by the switching effect is the playback position A5 (notification effect). A), reproduction position B5 (when notification effect B is executed), reproduction position C5 (when notification effect C is executed), respectively, reproduction positions A3, B3, and B3 that are 6.5 seconds later Become.

  When the second hold display number of the determination target command is “3” (when the number of hold of the second special figure game before the target is 2), the playback position of the switching destination by the switching effect is the playback position A5 (notification effect). A), reproduction position B5 (when notification effect B is executed), reproduction position C5 (when notification effect C is executed), respectively, reproduction positions A2, B2, and B2 that are 9.5 seconds later Become.

  When the second hold display number of the determination target command is “4” (when the number of hold of the second special figure game before the target is 3), the playback position of the switching destination by the switching effect is the playback position A5 (notification effect). A), reproduction position B5 (when notification effect B is executed), reproduction position C5 (when notification effect C is executed), respectively, reproduction positions A1, B1, B1 that are 12.5 seconds backward Become.

  In step S678, by referring to the table showing the relationship of FIG. 17 or by using the relational expression of T, the playback position to be switched by the switching effect (position retroactive from the playback position of the specific scene) is determined. To do.

  After step S678, the switching effect execution information indicating the determination result described above and the notification effect execution information are stored in the second start winning command buffer (step S679). The switching effect execution information indicates that the switching effect is to be executed and the playback position of the switching destination by the switching effect, and is stored corresponding to the second hold display number “1”. The notification effect execution information indicates the type of notification effect determined above, and is stored in correspondence with the determination target command (second hold display number of the command). The variable display corresponding to the command corresponding to the switching effect execution information is the variable display for executing the switching effect, and the variable display corresponding to the command (command to be determined) corresponding to the notification effect execution information is variable to execute the notification effect. Display.

  Thereafter, the notification effect execution flag is turned on (step S680). When the second special figure reserved memory number addition designation command is not received (step S671; No), when the notification effect execution flag is on (step S672; Yes), the determination target command is “super reach”. When a value other than “big hit” or “super reach (losing)” is designated (step S674A; No), the notification effect / switching effect execution setting process is terminated.

(Variable display start waiting process: step S170)
The variable display start waiting process is executed when the value of the effect process flag provided in the RAM 122 is “0”. The effect control CPU 120 determines whether a change start command (particularly, the first or second change start designation command) is received. If the above command has not been received, the process is terminated assuming that no change start command has been received yet. If the above command has been received, assuming that the change start command has been received, the value of the effect process flag is updated to “1” to start the variable display of the decorative symbols, and the variable display start waiting process ends. To do.

(Variable display start setting process: Step S171)
The variable display start setting process is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “1” (decision of a variable display mode of a decorative pattern to be executed, a variable display result, an effect to be executed during the variable display, etc. Process). FIG. 18 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the variable display start setting process.

  The effect control CPU 120 displays the current variation pattern (the variation pattern designated by the variation pattern designation command stored in the variation pattern designation command storage region) and the current variable display result (the display stored in the display result designation command storage region). Based on the variable display result specified by the result specifying command), the final stop symbol (determined decorative symbol) is determined (step S321). The final stop symbol is prepared in advance according to, for example, a combination of the variation pattern and the variable display result, and is determined by lottery or the like (the random number value is updated by the random number circuit 124 or the effect random number update process). One of the production random numbers).

  After step S321, from the first start winning command buffer (when the first variation start designation command is received) or from the second starting winning command buffer (when the second variation start designation command is received). , Data corresponding to the first or second hold display number “1” (first or second winning determination result designation command, switching effect execution information (if stored), and notification effect execution information (stored) And the data corresponding to the first or second hold display number “2” to “4” correspond to the first or second hold display number “1” to “3” which is one higher level respectively. Shift to the storage area (step S322). The read data is stored in the fluctuation buffer of the RAM 122.

  Thereafter, it is determined whether or not the switching effect execution information is included in the data read in step S322 and stored in the fluctuation buffer (step S323). If the switching effect execution information is included (step S323; Yes), it is determined to execute the switching effect (step S324), and the playback position of the switching destination indicated by the switching effect execution information is stored in a predetermined buffer of the RAM 122 (step S325). In this embodiment, since the switching effect and the notification effect are not executed for the first special figure game, when the data read in step S322 is stored in the first start winning command buffer, The switching effect execution information is not included in the data stored in the fluctuation buffer (the same applies to the notification effect execution information in step S341 described later).

  If the switching effect execution information is not included (step S323; No), it is determined based on the state of the high-accuracy flag and the high base flag whether the current state is the high-accuracy high-base state (step S331). In the high-accuracy and high-base state (step S331; Yes), whether or not to execute a gasse switching effect (a switching effect in which the playback position of the background image is not switched or the playback position is switched but the notification effect is not performed) is performed. It is determined by lottery (step S332). In the lottery, any random number value of the effect random number value updated by the random number circuit 124 or the effect random number update process, and a table for determining the effect of changing the gaze prepared in the ROM 121 are used. In the table, no execution, switching effects A1 to A4, switching effects B1 to B4, switching effects C1 to C4, and switching effects D are set as determination results, and the determination ratio of FIG. 19 is realized. . “No execution” is a determination result of not executing the gaze switching effect. The “switching effect A1” is a determination result for executing the switching effect for switching the playback position of the background image to the playback position A1 after the switching effect. Similarly, each of “switching effects A2 to A4, B1 to B4, C1 to C4” is a switching effect that switches the playback position of the background image to each of the playback positions A2 to A4, B1 to B4, and C1 to C4 after the switching effect (FIG. This is a determination result of executing 19). “Switching effect D” is a determination result of executing a switching effect that does not switch the playback position of the background image after the switching effect. As can be seen from the determination ratio in FIG. 19, in the high-accuracy base state, the switching effect is executed with a high probability, and the switching effect D without switching the background image is executed with a high probability (that is, on the effect) The sandstorm images that make up the switching effect are frequently executed).

  Thereafter, in step S332, it is determined whether or not it is decided to execute the switching effect (step S333), and if it is determined to be executed (step S333; Yes), the playback position of the switching destination according to the type of switching effect determined to be executed ( In the case of the switching effect D, information indicating no switching) is stored in the predetermined buffer (step S334).

  Step S325, Step S334, when it is determined not to execute the switching effect (Step S333; No), when it is not the high-accuracy base state (Step S331; No), it is read out and stored in the fluctuation buffer in Step S322. It is determined whether the notification effect execution information is included in the data (step S341). If included (step S341; Yes), it is determined to execute the type of notification effect (any one of notification effects A to C) indicated by the notification effect execution information (step S342). When the notification effect execution information is not included (step S341; No), after step S342, the presence or absence of execution of other image system effects such as reach effects, the mode of image system effects to be executed, and the like are determined ( Step S343). Specifically, a lottery using a variety of tables prepared in advance in the ROM 121 and an arbitrary random value among the random numbers for production, is a notice production (a production for predicting the jackpot expectation, The production mode may be different depending on the time and the low base. At this time, by referring to different tables according to the display result, the variation pattern, etc., the jackpot expectation degree (including the execution expectation degree of super reach, etc.) is varied according to the presence / absence of execution of the notice effect or the like and the aspect thereof. . In addition, if the current fluctuation pattern specifies reach, it is decided to execute the reach effect specified by the change pattern (reach effect when the reach is established with the decorative symbols that make up the final stop symbol). To do.

  Thereafter, the effect control CPU 120 determines the start timing (predetermined in relation to the effect to be executed and the variation pattern) of the image-based effect (reach effect, notice effect, notification effect, etc.) determined to be executed in step S322. Set (step S344). Specifically, the CPU 120 for effect control measures the elapsed time from the start of execution of variable display by providing a timer value corresponding to the special figure change time corresponding to the current change pattern, provided in the effect control process timer (RAM 122). (Timer for), as the initial value, and the effect specifying data for specifying the type and form of the image system effect determined to be executed, and the execution start timing of the image system effect with the timer value of the effect control process timer Execution timing specific timer value shown by comparison (preliminarily set in relation to the image system effect to be executed and the fluctuation pattern (special drawing fluctuation time). Timer value) is stored in the timer value storage area of the RAM 122 in association with each other. When there are a plurality of image effects that are determined to be executed, the effect control CPU 120 stores effect specifying data and an execution timing specifying timer value in the timer value storage area for each image effect.

  Thereafter, the CPU 120 for effect control displays an execution instruction (execution start instruction) for the variable display (image effect) of the decorative symbol for deriving the final stop symbol determined in the manner specified by the current variation pattern. (Step S345). The display control unit 123 receives the execution instruction and starts variable display of decorative symbols (hereinafter, the display control unit 123 executes variable display of decorative symbols separately from the CPU 120 for effect control. The display control unit 123 also executes separately from the effect control CPU 120.) When the execution of the switching effect is determined, an instruction to execute the switching effect (execution start instruction) is supplied to the display control unit 123 (at this time, the switching effect flag provided in the RAM 122 is turned on). . The display control unit 123 receives the execution instruction and executes a switching effect in accordance with the start of variable display of decorative symbols (note that the playback of the background image is paused during the execution of the switching effect).

  When the first variation start designation command is received this time, an instruction to reduce the first hold display image by one is supplied to the display control unit 123, and when the second variation start designation command is received this time, An instruction to reduce the two held display images by one is supplied to the display control unit 123 (step S346). Thereby, on the screen of the image display device 5, when the first hold display image is reduced by one, the leftmost first hold display image is deleted, and the other first hold display images are shifted one by one to the left. When the second reserved display image is reduced by one, the leftmost second reserved display image is deleted, and the other second reserved display images are shifted one by one to the left. Thereafter, the value of the effect process flag is updated to “2” (step S326), and the variable display start setting process ends.

(Processing during variable display: step S172)
The variable display in-process is executed when the value of the effect process flag is “2”. FIG. 20 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing during variable display.

  In the variable display process, the effect control CPU 120 decrements the timer value of the effect control process timer by 1, and determines whether or not the timer value after the decrement is 0. It is determined whether or not the diagram variation time has elapsed (step S551).

  When the timer value is not 0, that is, when the special figure variation time (which is also the execution period of the variable display of the decorative symbol) has not elapsed (step S551; No), the switching effect is currently being executed and It is determined whether it is the end timing of the switching effect (step S552). Specifically, a timer value indicating that the switching effect flag is on and the timer value of the effect control process timer has passed 0.5 seconds from the start of variable display (which may be determined in advance according to the variation pattern). This determination is made based on whether or not. When it is the end timing (when the switching effect flag is on and the timer value of the effect control process timer is a timer value indicating that 0.5 second has elapsed from the start of variable display) (step S552; Yes), switching Since the production end timing has come, an instruction to switch the background image playback position to the playback position stored in the predetermined buffer and resume playback of the background image (background image switching instruction) is supplied to the display control unit 123 ( Step S553). Upon receiving the instruction, the display control unit 123 ends the switching effect, and restarts playback of the background image by switching the playback position (the playback position is the frame number assigned to each frame constituting the background image, the background It is managed by the time code etc. of the image). Thereby, the switching of the reproduction position of the background image by the switching effect is realized. When information indicating no switching is stored in the predetermined buffer, an instruction to resume playback without switching the playback position of the background image is supplied to the display control unit 123. The display control unit 123 receives the instruction, ends the switching effect, and restarts playback of the background image without switching. Thereby, execution of the switch effect (switch effect D) of the gas without switching of the background image is realized.

  After step S553, the stored contents of the predetermined buffer are cleared and the switching effect flag is reset to OFF (step S554).

  After step S554, when the present is not the end timing of the switching effect (step S552; No), it is determined whether the present is the start timing of the notification effect (step S555). Here, the execution timing specifying timer value that matches the timer value of the current effect control process timer is stored in the timer value storage area, and the effect specifying data corresponding to the execution timing specifying timer value is the notification effect. It is determined that the present is the start timing of the notification effect. When it is the start timing of the notification effect (step S555; Yes), an instruction to start execution of the notification effect (any one of the notification effects A to C) specified by the effect specification data is supplied to the display control unit 123 (step S556). ). The display control unit 123 receives the instruction and starts executing any of the notification effects A to C (the background image displayed at the timing is a specific scene when the notification effect starts to be executed). ).

  If the current timing is not the start timing of the notification effect (step S555; No), after step S556, the current timing is the start timing of another image-based effect set in step S343 (the effect determined to be executed with the current variable display). It is determined whether or not there is (step S552). Here, this determination is performed by determining whether or not the execution timing specifying timer value stored in the timer value storage area matches the timer value of the current effect control process timer.

  When an execution timing specifying timer value that matches the timer value of the current effect control process timer is stored in the timer value storage area, the start timing of the corresponding image effect (including super reach) is stored. Since there is (step S557; Yes), an instruction to start execution of the image-type effect specified by the effect specifying data stored in the timer value storage area corresponding to the timer value is supplied to the display control unit 123 (step S558). ). The display control unit 123 receives the execution instruction and starts the image-based effect specified by the effect specifying data. The display control unit 123 executes each of the plurality of image effects separately in different layers (displays the background image on the last layer).

  If it is not the start timing of execution of the image effect (step S557; No), after step S558, the variable display in-process is terminated.

  In step S551, if the timer value is 0, that is, if the special symbol variation time has elapsed (step S551; Yes), it is determined whether or not a symbol confirmation designation command has been received from the main board 11 (step S571). ). At this time, if the command has not been received (step S571; No), the variable display in-process is terminated.

  If the symbol confirmation designation command is received (step S571; Yes), the final stop symbol derivation timing is reached, so the display control unit 123 is instructed to derive the final stop symbol (determined decorative symbol) (step S571). S572). In response to the execution instruction, the display control unit 123 ends the variable display of the decorative pattern on the screen of the image display device 5 and derives the fixed decorative pattern (variable display result). Thereafter, a timer value corresponding to the hit start designation command reception waiting time (for example, the time corresponding to the stop symbol display time) is set in the effect control process timer (step S573). Thereafter, the value of the effect process flag is updated to “3” (step S576), and the variable display process is terminated.

(Waiting process per special figure: Step S173)
The special figure waiting process is executed when the value of the production process flag is “3”. In the waiting process per special figure, the effect control CPU 120 determines whether or not a hit start designation command is received from the main board 11. Then, when the hit start designation command is received, it means that “big hit” has occurred, so that the execution instruction (execution start instruction) of the big hit effect (including fanfare) is given to the display control unit 123. Supply. The display control unit 123 receives the execution instruction and starts a big hit effect (image effect) including a fanfare. Then, the value of the effect process flag is updated to “4”, and the special figure waiting process is terminated.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that the hit start designation command has not yet been received, it is determined whether the hit start designation command reception waiting time has elapsed. Specifically, 1 is subtracted from the timer value of the effect control process timer, and it is determined whether the timer value obtained by subtracting 1 is “0”, thereby determining the elapse of the waiting time. If the timer value after subtraction of 1 is not “0”, the hit waiting designation command reception waiting time has not elapsed, so this processing is terminated. If the timer value after subtracting 1 is “0”, it means that the waiting time for receiving the hit start designation command has elapsed, so it is determined that the special figure display result in the special figure game is “losing” The value of the production process flag is updated to “0” which is an initial value, and this process is terminated.

(Hit processing: Step S174)
The hit process is executed when the value of the effect process flag is “4”. In the hit process, the effect control CPU 120 determines whether a hit end designation command from the main board 11 has been received. If no hit end designation command has been received, this process ends. When a hit end designation command is received, an ending execution instruction (execution start instruction) is supplied to the display control unit 123. The display control unit 123 receives the execution instruction and starts ending (image-based effect). Also, the timer value corresponding to the ending effect execution time (ending waiting time) is set in the effect control process timer, the value of the effect process flag is updated to “5”, and this process ends.

(Ending process: Step S175)
The ending process is executed when the value of the effect process flag is “5”. In the ending process, the effect control CPU 120 decrements the timer value of the effect control process timer by 1, and determines whether or not the timer value obtained by decrementing by 1 is “0”. finish. When the timer value is “0”, the ending waiting time has elapsed and the ending has been completed. Therefore, the value of the rendering process flag is updated to “0” which is the initial value, and this process is terminated.

(Other)
In the series of processes (steps S170 to S175), when the value of the effect process flag is updated to “0” which is the initial value, one variable display or the like has been completed, so the effect control process timer In addition, various data such as various flag states and counter values (those that you do not want to carry over to the next variable display) may be reset as appropriate.

(Relationship effect, notification effect, background image relationship)
FIG. 21A shows a case where it is determined that the notification effect A is to be executed when the second hold display number of the command to be determined is “4” (when there are three second special figure games executed before the target). It is a figure which shows time series, such as a switching production | presentation, a notification production | presentation, each variable display (fluctuation), a background image. In this case, the switching effect is executed from the start of the non-reach fluctuation (special figure fluctuation time (2.5 seconds) + stop symbol display time (0.5 seconds)) three times before the target (the execution time is 0.5 seconds). The playback position (switching destination) of the background image switched by the switching effect is the playback position A1 that goes back 12.5 seconds from the playback position A5 that executes the notification effect A (see also FIG. 17 and the like). After the switching, the first non-reach fluctuation is finished 2.5 seconds later, then two non-reach fluctuations are executed (6 seconds have passed after two non-reach fluctuations), and then the variable display of the target is executed. The notification effect A is started 4 seconds after the start of execution. At this timing, 12.5 seconds have elapsed since the switching of the playback position, the playback position of the background image at the start of execution of the notification effect A is exactly the playback position A5, and the specific scene A is used as the background image. It will be displayed. The execution time of the notification effect A is 1.0 second, but may be longer than that (the same applies to the notification effects B to C).

  FIG. 21B shows a case in which the notification effect A is determined to be executed when the second hold display number of the command to be determined is “3” (when there are two second special figure games executed before the target). It is a figure which shows time series, such as a switching production | presentation, a notification production | presentation, each variable display (fluctuation), a background image. In this case, the switching effect is executed from the start of the non-reach fluctuation (special figure fluctuation time (2.5 seconds) + stop symbol display time (0.5 seconds)) two times before the target (the execution time is 0.5 seconds). The playback position (switching destination) of the background image switched by the switching effect is the playback position A2 that goes back 9.5 seconds from the playback position A5 that executes the notification effect A (see also FIG. 17 and the like). After the switching, the first non-reach fluctuation is completed after 2.5 seconds, and then one non-reach fluctuation is executed (3 seconds after one non-reach fluctuation), and then the variable display of the target is executed. The notification effect A is started 4 seconds after the start of execution. At this timing, 9.5 seconds have passed since the switching of the playback position, the playback position of the background image at the start of execution of the notification effect A is exactly the playback position A5, and the specific scene A is used as the background image. It will be displayed.

  FIG. 21C shows the case where it is determined that the notification effect A is executed when the second hold display number of the command to be determined is “1” (when the second special figure game executed before the target is 0). It is a figure which shows time series, such as a switching production | presentation, a notification production | presentation, each variable display (fluctuation), a background image. In this case, the switching effect is executed from the start of target fluctuation (the execution time is 0.5 seconds). The playback position (switching destination) of the background image switched by the switching effect is a playback position A4 that goes back 3.5 seconds from the playback position A5 that executes the notification effect A (see also FIG. 17 and the like). After switching, notification effect A is started 3.5 seconds later (4 seconds after the start of fluctuation). At this timing, 3.5 seconds have passed since the switching of the playback position, the playback position of the background image at the start of execution of the notification effect A is exactly the playback position A5, and the specific scene A is used as the background image. It will be displayed.

  The above relationship is the same in other cases. Further, in this embodiment, the background image is stopped by executing the notification effect, and the background image for super reach is displayed in the super reach after the notification effect (the background image indicates the super reach or the like). May be shared with background image when not running). It is assumed that after the super reach, the original background image is restored (the playback restart position may be the stop position of the background image).

(Gase switching effect)
FIG. 22 is a diagram for explaining the time series of the switching effect, the variable display (variation), the background image, and the like when executing the switching effect of the gusset compared with the case of executing the switching effect that is not gusset. FIG. 22 (A) is a diagram in the case of executing a switching effect that is not gusset, and the description is the same as FIG. 21 (B). FIG. 22 (B) is a diagram in the case where a gasse switching effect (switching effect D) without switching the background image is executed. In this case, even if the effect of switching the gaze is executed, the reproduction is resumed without switching the reproduction position of the background image after the end. It should be noted that the gasse switching effect is executed in the first 0.5 seconds of variable display, similarly to the non-gase switching effect. It should be noted that execution of the gasse switching effect is determined at the start of variable display. FIG. 22C is a diagram in a case where a gasse switching effect (here, referred to as switching effect A2) in which the notification effect is not executed although the background image is switched is executed. In this case, when the gasse switching effect is executed, the playback position of the background image is switched after the end (here, the playback position is switched to the playback position A2 in accordance with FIG. 22A), and the playback is resumed. The It should be noted that the gasse switching effect is executed in the first 0.5 seconds of variable display, similarly to the non-gase switching effect. In addition, the execution of the gasse switching effect is determined at the start of variable display. In the case of FIG. 22C, the notification effect is not executed even when the playback position of the background image is the playback position A5 (here, there is no super-reach fluctuation, and non-reach fluctuation continues instead).

(Example of production screen)
FIG. 23 is a diagram illustrating an example of an effect screen. FIG. 23A is a diagram (a diagram immediately before the switching effect) in which the change immediately before the variable display in which the switching effect is executed is terminated and the variable display result (“5 6 4”) is derived and displayed. is there. At this time, the number of holds of the first special figure game is two (two first hold display images 5HA are displayed), and the number of hold of the second special figure game is three (second hold display image) 3 HBs are displayed). The second hold display image 5HB (T) corresponds to the variable display of the target. A background image in which the figure moves from right to left is reproduced and displayed.

  When variable display (fluctuation) of the next decorative symbol is started from the state of FIG. 23A (holding of the second special figure game is digested), a switching effect is executed simultaneously (FIG. 23). (B)). At this time, the second hold display image 5HB decreases by one, and the second hold display image 5HB (T) and the like shift to the left. In this embodiment, the decorative design is displayed semi-transparently (variably displayed) during variable display (until derivation of the variable display result) so that the background image and the like can be seen well. On the other hand, the decorative pattern when stopped as a variable display result (for example, FIG. 23A) is displayed in a non-transparent manner in order to ensure the visibility of the decorative pattern. The switching effect is executed, for example, as an effect of displaying a sandstorm image on a layer positioned before the display layer of the background image and hiding the background image (the layer that displays the variable display of the decorative design and the hold display image is , Foremost) As a result, the visibility of the background image is reduced. While the switching effect is being executed, the background image is temporarily stopped.

  When the switching effect being executed is a non-gaseous switching effect, or when the background effect is a gusseted switching effect (here, referred to as switching effect A2), the playback position of the background image is switched (here, playback). It is assumed that the playback is resumed by switching to the position A2 (FIG. 23C). When the switching effect being executed is a gasse switching effect without switching of the background (switching effect D), the playback position of the background image is not switched (hereinafter, the playback of the background image is resumed and continued) (FIG. 23). (D)).

  When the playback position of the background image is switched, when the switching effect is not gusset (when the notification effect is executed), variable display (second special figure game) is sequentially executed, and target variable display is executed. Then, the playback position of the background image becomes the playback position A5 (display of the specific scene A) 4 seconds after the start of the variable display of the target (that is, the execution time of the notification effect A) (FIG. 23 (E)). Then, a notification effect A in which the graphic image G1 is suddenly increased (at this time, reach is also established by variable display of decorative symbols) (FIG. 23 (F)). And it evolves from notification production to super reach.

  When the playback position of the background image is switched and the switching effect is gusset (when the notification effect is not executed), for example, variable display of non-reach lose is executed sequentially (here, the second special game is All are executed and the first special figure game is executed). Even if the playback position of the background image is the playback position A5 (display of the specific scene A) (FIG. 23G), the notification effect is not executed, The background image and the like are reproduced as they are, and variable display is also sequentially executed (FIG. 23 (H)).

(Effects on the embodiment, etc.)
(Effect 1)
In this embodiment, the notification effect using the background image is executed, and the super reach is executed from the notification effect, so that the interest of the game is improved. When the notification effect is executed, the playback position of the background image is switched by the switching effect so that the specific scene is displayed at a future timing when the notification effect is executed (that is, the notification effect is executed from the switching). Since the background image is adjusted to the scale up to the timing), the notification effect can be executed without a sense of incongruity, and the fun of the game is improved. Further, since the switching effect temporarily hides the background image, the switching of the background image becomes inconspicuous, and the switching effect can be executed without a visually uncomfortable feeling.

(Effect 2)
Also, switching of the background image by the switching effect is switching of the playback position of the background image, and after the switching, the background image is reproduced again and does not switch to an irrelevant image that is completely different from the background image. Discomfort can be reduced.

(Effect 3)
All variable displays before the variable display (target) that executes the notification effect are all non-reach loss variations, and the execution time (special symbol variation time + stop symbol display time) is fixed at 3 seconds, so switching effect Thus, it is possible to easily specify the playback position of the switching destination when switching the background image, and to appropriately switch the playback position (the processing burden is reduced). Further, here, the execution timing of the notification effect in the variable display of the target is also fixed after 4 seconds from the start, so that it is possible to more easily specify the playback position of the switching destination (the processing burden is reduced).

(Effect 4)
A plurality of types of notification effects are prepared (notification effects A to C), and the execution timing (specific scene of the background image when executing) and its mode are different for each notification effect. improves. Further, since the notification effect has a big hit expectation level depending on the type, the attention to the notification effect can be increased and the interest of the game can be improved.

(Effect 5)
Furthermore, by preparing a gasse switching effect, it is possible to weaken the connection of execution of the switching effect = execution of the notification effect and to prevent the effect from becoming monotonous. In particular, the switching frequency of the background image playback position (switching effects A1 to A5, B1 to B5, and C1 to C5) can be increased by switching the playback position of the background image. improves. In addition, by executing the gaze switching effect (switching effect D) without switching the playback position of the background image at a high frequency (see FIG. 19), the player is assumed that the switching effect is normally executed for the effect. The special feeling of the switching effect can be reduced, and a sudden feeling when the notification effect is executed can be produced.

(Effect 6)
In addition, the decorative design is displayed in a translucent state during the change (including the execution of the switching effect), and the visibility is reduced, and as a result, the visibility of the background and the switching effect is reduced by the decorative design. Can be prevented.

(Configuration disclosed in this specification, modified example of the above embodiment)
Hereinafter, a configuration taking the above embodiment disclosed in the present specification as an example and a modification of the above embodiment will be described. At least some of the following modifications can be combined as long as no contradiction occurs. The configuration of the above embodiment and the following configuration can be omitted regardless of whether the configuration is related to the above-mentioned “problem to be solved by the invention” or not (in that case, Can be another invention).

(1) A gaming machine for playing games,
A gaming machine for playing games,
Reproducing means (for example, the display control unit 123 for reproducing the background image) for reproducing a series of videos (for example, a background image in which a figure moves from right to left, FIG. 13);
An effect related to a specific image (for example, specific scene A, FIG. 15A) in the series of images, and a notification effect (for example, notifying that a specific effect (for example, super reach) is executed) A notification effect executing means (for example, steps S676, S342, S556, etc.) for executing the notification effect A);
When the notification effect is executed, the specific image is played back in accordance with the execution timing of the notification effect (for example, the timing 4 seconds after the start of variable display of the target). A predetermined image (the playback position of the background image (see FIG. 17 and the like so that the playback position A5 arrives at the timing 4 seconds later) is selected from any of the playback positions A1 to A4 according to the number of reserved second game games. Switching means (for example, step S678, FIG. 17, step S345, step S553) for switching to the background image to be reproduced by switching to
The switching means reduces the visibility of the series of videos when switching the series of videos to the predetermined video (for example, hiding a background image by a sandstorm image; see FIG. 23F).
Gaming machine.

  The series of images may be a moving image such as a music video (actual shooting or animation may be used). Further, instead of the background image, a predetermined effect image (for example, a video reproduced in a specific effect mode) may be configured. The series of videos may be a whole video played back in a loop or a single video played back once (out of the background images played back in a loop, the above-mentioned background images in one cycle are regarded as a series of images. May be) In addition to the continuous playback of the first and last connected images such as the background image as a moving image, loop playback also plays a predetermined moving image to the end, and then plays the predetermined moving image from the beginning. Re-doing (including switching from the last image of the predetermined moving image to the first image of the predetermined moving image). The series of images may be ones in which characters or the like appear sequentially. As a series of videos in which the notification effect is executed, in the above description, there was only one type of high-accuracy base state background image, but a plurality of series of videos are prepared (for example, different backgrounds for each effect mode) In each series of videos, a different specific video may be provided for each series of videos, and a notification effect may be executed. For example, an image in which character A appears and an image in which character B appears are prepared as background images, and an image in which character A approaches and an image in which character B escapes may be prepared as specific images. . This makes it possible to improve the entertainment of the game without getting tired of the production. In the above description, a series of videos is used as a background image in a highly accurate and high base state. However, the series of videos may be a background in another gaming state (for example, in a normal state and a special effect mode). A series of videos includes a first video that is played a predetermined number of times, a second video that is related to the first video is then played a predetermined number of times, and then the first video is played again a predetermined number of times. Each related moving image may be sequentially reproduced a predetermined number of times. As a series of videos, a certain video (video obtained by sequentially reproducing each video related to each other a predetermined number of times, including the background image of the above embodiment) is reproduced a predetermined number of times (the predetermined number includes one time and is reproduced a plurality of times). (In this case, loop playback is performed), and then another series of video is played back (including loop playback). In this case, for example, the playback position of the switching destination by the switching effect may be the playback position of a series of videos being played (for example, a notification effect is prepared for each of the series of videos, and the playback position of the switching destination is the notification position. (It is assumed that it is predetermined for each series of videos in relation to the production.) (Note that the switching destination may be the playback position of another series of videos that are not being played back, but the switching destination is being played back.) It may be less visually uncomfortable if it is set to the playback position of a series of video).

  In addition to various reach effects, the specific effects include pre-reading notices (effects for notifying the target jackpot expectation level, etc., executed based on the pre-reading determination), jackpot confirmation notification effects, various notice effects, pseudo-reams, etc. Also good.

  The notification effect, which is an effect related to a specific video, is an effect using at least a part of the image of the specific video (an image is different from the series of videos (background images) as in the above embodiment). (Such as an effect to be changed), an effect in which a predetermined video that is different from a series of videos is reproduced depending on the movement of an image in the specific video, etc. (for example, a character attacks the player) When a scene to be played is reproduced as a specific video, an effect of reproducing an image in which the screen is cracked by the attack (notification effect from a crack of the screen) may be used.

  The notification effect only needs to notify the execution of the specific effect directly or indirectly. For example, a notification effect is executed by directly informing that the specific effect is executed by a message or the like. When the specific effect is executed, the fact that the specific effect is executed is indirectly notified, and the fact that the specific effect is executed by developing from the notification effect to the specific effect is indirectly detected. What is necessary is just to notify. The notification effect is, for example, an effect that the screen is cracked and an effect image of super reach appears from behind (the effect of informing the execution of super reach by being an effect of connection to develop into super reach). May be.

  In the above embodiment, the predetermined video is a part of the background image (a series of videos), but the specific video is displayed (reproduced) at the end, and another video (for example, a figure) different from the series of videos is displayed. May be a video that moves differently from the background image.

  Other examples of reducing the visibility of a series of videos when switching a series of videos to a predetermined video are to make the video semi-transparent, for example, so that the screen is temporarily dark and does not display the video. In addition, it is difficult to recognize what the video represents by effect processing (for example, high-speed blinking, etc.), mosaic is applied to the video, and the video is blurred. In the above description, the playback of the background image is paused when the switching effect is executed. However, the background image may be continuously played behind the switching effect.

(2) The predetermined video is a video that constitutes a part of the series of videos (for example, a background image).

  In the above embodiment, the playback position of the background image is changed at the time of switching the video. However, the predetermined video and the series of videos may have the same contents, and may be prepared as different data. For example, in the case of FIG. 21 (A), video data from playback position A1 to playback position A5 is prepared separately from background image data that is normally played back with a high-accuracy base. It is also possible to realize the switching to the predetermined video by reproducing the data (the same applies to other notification effects). Further, the switching effect and the predetermined video may be prepared as a series of moving image data. In this case, the series of moving image data is reproduced from the start of the execution of the switching effect. For example, in the case of FIG. 21A, the reproduction of the video from the switching effect → the reproduction position A1 to the reproduction position A5 is realized.

(3) The notification effect is executed in a specific variable display after a predetermined number of variable displays are executed (for example, FIG. 21),
The switching means switches the series of videos to the predetermined video when the display results of the predetermined number of variable displays are all lost (for example, step S675B, FIG. 21).

  In addition, as an example different from the above (3), at the time of starting the variable display of the decorative design, the presence or absence of execution of the notification effect may be determined for the variable display.

  In the above embodiment, the notification effect is executed with the second special figure game as a target, but may be executed with the first special figure game as a target. In this case, for example, a notification effect related to the specific image of the background image in the normal state is executed.

(4) A plurality of the specific images are provided (for example, specific scenes A to C),
The notification effect executing means executes the notification effect (for example, notification effects A to C) in association with any of the plurality of specific videos.

  Note that the notification effect may be different for each of the plurality of specific videos. For example, in the notification effect A, the graphic image G1 of the specific scene A may be enlarged, and in the notification effect B, the graphic image G2 of the specific scene B may be reduced.

  Note that a gaze notification effect may be prepared as the notification effect. For example, there may be a pattern in which the notification effect is executed but the specific effect such as super reach is not executed (for example, the graphic image G1 becomes larger, but then returns to the original size) . In this case, the ratio at which the specific effect is executed may be varied depending on the type of the notification effect (notification effects A to C, the playback position of the specific video, etc.). In the above embodiment, when the high-reliability-based super reach is executed, the notification effect is always executed and the super reach is executed via the notification effect. However, the super reach is executed without the notification effect. There may be patterns to be played.

(5) The notification effect may not be executed even when the series of videos is switched to the predetermined image by the switching unit (for example, switching effects A1 to A4).

  The jackpot expectation may be varied depending on whether or not a gaze switching effect is executed and its type (for example, switching destination video (playback position), etc., and switching effect D without switching may be included). A plurality of types of switching effects may be provided, and the rate at which a series of videos are switched, the jackpot expectation, and the like may be varied according to the modes.

(6) Variable display execution means (for example, display control unit 123) that performs variable display of identification information (for example, decorative symbols) on the display means for displaying the series of images,
The variable display execution means reduces the visibility of the identification information (for example, displays it translucently) at least when the notification effect is executed.

  Decreasing the visibility of the identification information may be to make the identification information semi-transparent or to reduce the identification information to make the background image or the like easier to see.

(7) In the effect control board 12 that controls the effect, if the pachinko gaming machine 1 is interrupted by a power failure or the like, the stored contents of the RAM 122 until then are lost (in general, there is no backup). Accordingly, if the stored contents of the RAM 122 are erased due to a power interruption or the like when the notification effect execution information or the like is stored in the second start winning command buffer, the notification effect execution information or the like is also deleted. In such a case, the notification effect is not executed with the variable display of the target (because the playback position of the background image cannot be adjusted), and there may be a problem that the super reach suddenly starts. For this reason, for example, when a command notifying recovery from power interruption, such as a power failure recovery command, is transmitted from the main board 11, the effect control CPU 120 turns on the recovery flag provided in the RAM 122, and changes If the game state at the time of starting variable display in which the pattern specifies super reach (when executing step S171) is the high-accuracy base state and the recovery flag is on, the variable display An alternative effect different from the notification effect or the like may be executed in the period from the start timing or the predetermined timing thereafter to the start time of super reach execution. Thus, at the time of power restoration, an alternative effect (for example, an effect for notifying that the specific effect is executed) may be executed instead of the notification effect until the specific effect is executed. In addition, the game state at the time of starting variable display in which the fluctuation pattern designates super reach (when executing step S171) is a high-accuracy base state, and the recovery flag is on, When the display of the background image has already been resumed due to the restoration of or when the variable display is resumed, the execution of the switching effect and the notification effect is determined at the start of the variable display execution (at the time of execution of step S171). (Assuming that the second hold display number to be determined is 1, processing similar to that in steps S676 and S678 may be performed. For example, the winning determination result in FIG. The type of notification effect is determined in place of the result, and the playback position of the switching destination when the second hold display number = 1 in FIG. 17 is specified as the playback position of the switching destination by the current switching effect. . Note that the execution of the notification effect or the switching effect may be performed when the target variable display is performed (the same processing as in steps S676 and S678 is performed in step S171. In this case, for example, determination at the time of winning in FIG. The result is replaced with the display result of the variable display, the type of notification effect is determined, and the playback position of the switching destination when the second hold display number = 1 in FIG. In this case, the notification effect or the like can be appropriately executed after the power failure recovery without using the recovery flag (as in this example, the notification effect and the switching effect are executed based on the pre-reading determination). Instead of the pre-reading effect to be performed, it may be the variation effect (the effect intended for the variable display being executed) in which the presence / absence of execution is determined when the variable display is executed. Further, when there is a power failure recovery, the main board 11 side scans all the backed-up reserved data (random number values MR1 to MR3) and performs prefetch determination again, and determines the first winning determination result designation command, 2 at the time of the first winning prize command buffer, the second winning judgment result designation command and the second winning judgment result designation command transmitted on the effect control board 12 side. It may be stored again in the start winning command buffer, and the execution of the notification effect or the like may be determined again based on these commands.

(8) For example, when the control CPU 120 determines in step S161 that only the notification effect is to be executed without determining the type of the notification effect, and determines that the notification effect is to be executed, (2) If the second hold display number is “4”, the play positions A1, B1, and C1 are specified (see FIG. 17). The specified reproduction position is notified to the display control unit 123 and stored. When executing the switching effect, the display control unit 123 confirms the reproduction position of the current background image, and among the reproduction positions stored at that time (for example, reproduction positions A1, B1, and C1), the current reproduction position is displayed. Even if the reproduction position closest to the position (for example, it can be confirmed based on the frame number of each of the reproduction positions A1, B1, and C1 and the frame number of the current reproduction position) is determined as the reproduction position to be switched by the switching effect. Good.

(9) Premier (for example, big hit confirmed) switching effect may be prepared. In this case, according to the switching effect, a series of videos (background images and the like) that have been reproduced so far may be switched to a special video different from the video.

(10) The variable display (which may be simply expressed as variable display) of the identification information (special drawing, decorative pattern, general drawing, etc.) includes that the identification information blinks. For example, in special drawings and ordinary drawings, a pattern in which all segments are turned off and one pattern in which at least some segments are turned on (for example, a lost pattern) are alternately included in the variable display of identification information ( In this case, the one pattern (for example, a lost symbol) appears to blink). In addition, variable display may be performed by blinking decorative symbols and ordinary symbols. Further, the identification information variably displayed in the variable display and the identification information as the variable display result may be different. For example, the display of one horizontal bar (“−”) blinks as a variable display of a special figure or an ordinary figure, and the other display (“7” if “big hit”, Deriving “1” for “losing” is also included in the variable display of the identification information. For example, a decorative pattern other than the scrolled decorative pattern may be a confirmed decorative pattern. In addition, a mode in which identification information that was not displayed in the initial predetermined period in one variable display is displayed after the predetermined period is included in the variable display of the identification information (the special symbol is a temporary stop of the final stop symbol) It may be a decorative pattern that appears for the first time at times.) The gaming machine only needs to perform variable display, for example.

(11) The prefetch determination may be performed on the effect control board 12 side. For example, a command indicating each random number value at the time of starting winning may be transmitted from the main board 11 to the effect control board 12 at the time of starting winning, and the effect control board 12 may make a prefetch determination.

(12) In the above embodiment, it is determined whether or not the game state after the big hit gaming state is changed to the “probable change state” by determining the big hit type at the start of the change. Only the opening pattern (round game mode) is determined, and the game state after the jackpot game state is determined based on the fact that the game ball has passed a specific area (for example, a specific area in the big prize opening) during the jackpot game state. You may make it be a "probable change state".

(13) The present invention can also be applied to an effect executing means in a slot machine, an effect executing means in an enclosed pachinko gaming machine in which a game ball is enclosed, and the like.

(14) Besides, the image display operation in the image display device for executing the device configuration and data configuration of the gaming machine, the processing shown in the flowchart, the sound output operation in the speaker, the game effect lamp and the decoration LED Various production operations including the lighting operation in can be arbitrarily changed and modified without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

(Other)
In the present specification, the comparison expression (expression such as “high”, “low”, “difference”, etc.) of various ratios such as the performance execution ratio is that the ratio of one is “0%”. May be included. For example, one of the ratios is “0%” and the other is a ratio of “100%” or a ratio of less than “100%”.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Pachinko machine 2 ... Game board 3 ... Gaming machine frame 4A, 4B ... Special symbol display device 5 ... Image display device 6A ... Ordinary winning ball device 6B ... Ordinary variable winning ball device 7 ... Special variable winning ball device 8L, 8R ... Speaker 9 ... Game effect lamp 11 ... Main board 12 ... Production control board 13 ... Audio control board 14 ... Lamp control board 15 ... Relay board 20 ... Normal symbol display 21 ... Gate switch 22A, 22B ... Start-up switch 23 ... Count switch 100... Game control microcomputer 101, 121... ROM
102, 122 ... RAM
103 ... CPU
104, 124 ... random number circuit 105, 125 ... I / O
120 ... CPU for effect control
123 ... Display control unit

Claims (1)

A gaming machine for playing games,
Playback means for playing back a series of videos;
A notification effect executing means for executing a notification effect for notifying that the specific effect is executed, which is an effect related to the specific image in the series of images;
Switching means for switching the series of images being reproduced to a predetermined image in which the specific image is reproduced in accordance with the execution timing of the notification effect when the notification effect is executed;
The switching means reduces the visibility of the series of videos when switching the series of videos to the predetermined video;
Gaming machine.

Images