JP2018167069A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a game machine capable of suitably showing a sound volume adjustment function.SOLUTION: A Pachinko machine 10 includes a game board in which a game area is formed. Based on entry of game balls flowing down on the game area into an operation hole, a shift lottery to an opening/closing execution mode is held. On a display screen of a pattern display device, a pattern combination corresponding to a result of the shift lottery is established and displayed through pattern variation display. A speaker part 64 is arranged in a front door frame 14, and performance sound, such as BGM, is outputted in conjunction with the variation display of a pattern. A game performance includes a performance corresponding to operation for executing a predetermined performance based on operation of an operation button 75 provided in the front door frame 14. When the operation button 75 is operated during execution of the pattern variation display, establishment display, or the like, a shift to a sound volume adjustment mode capable of adjusting a sound volume is performed. The sound volume of the speaker part 64 is changed by operating the operation button 75 during the sound volume adjustment mode.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine.

  For example, some gaming machines such as pachinko machines are provided with a pattern display means for performing variable display (display effect) of a pattern when triggered by a ball entering a pitching section provided in a game area. In this type of gaming machine, the attention degree to the game is improved by outputting effect sounds such as BGM from a speaker together with various display effects executed on the display screen of the picture display means.

  When a gaming machine is installed in an island facility such as a gaming hall, sound (for example, noise) around the gaming machine can vary depending on environmental conditions such as the installation location. In consideration of such circumstances, there has been proposed one provided with a volume adjusting means capable of adjusting the volume of a speaker by a predetermined operation (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

JP 2001-178941 A

  However, in the gaming machine that performs the above-described volume adjustment, there is still room for improvement in the configuration in order to perform the volume adjustment function well.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned circumstances and the like, and an object thereof is to provide a gaming machine capable of suitably exhibiting a volume control function.

  Hereinafter, means for solving the above problems will be described.

The present invention
Information acquisition means for acquiring special information based on the establishment of a predetermined acquisition condition;
Acquisition information storage means for storing the special information acquired by the information acquisition means;
Grant determination means for determining whether or not the special information stored in the acquired information storage means corresponds to grant information;
Game control means for performing processing to advance the game based on the result of the grant determination by the grant determination means;
Operating means operated by the player;
An operation corresponding effect executing means for executing an operation corresponding effect corresponding to the operation based on the operation means being operated;
Sound output means capable of outputting audible sound;
Sound control means for controlling the sound output means as the game progresses;
Volume adjusting means for adjusting the volume of the sound output means,
The volume adjusting means is
A volume adjustment state transition means for setting the volume adjustment state in which the volume adjustment is allowed based on the operation when the operation means is operated while a game is in progress;
Volume information display means for displaying information indicating a set volume when the volume adjustment state transition means shifts to the volume adjustment state;
A volume changing unit that changes the volume based on the operation when the operation unit is operated in a state where the volume adjustment state is entered and information indicating the volume is displayed. Features.

  According to the present invention, the volume control function can be suitably exhibited.

It is a front view which shows the pachinko machine in 1st Embodiment. It is a perspective view which expands and shows the main structures of a pachinko machine. It is a perspective view which expands and shows the main structures of a pachinko machine. (a) The front view which shows the structure of a game board, (b) It is the schematic which shows the internal structure of a unit in an operation port. It is a block diagram which shows the electric constitution of a pachinko machine. It is the schematic for demonstrating the display content on the display screen of a symbol display apparatus. It is the schematic for demonstrating the display content on the display screen of a symbol display apparatus. It is the schematic for demonstrating the content of the various counters used for a success or failure lottery. It is a flowchart which shows the timer interruption process performed by MPU of a main controller. It is a flowchart which shows the winning process for a working opening. It is a flowchart which shows an information acquisition process. It is a flowchart which shows the normal process performed by MPU of a main controller. It is a flowchart which shows game times control processing. It is a flowchart which shows a data setting process. It is a flowchart which shows a fluctuation | variation start process. It is a flowchart which shows the setting process of a fluctuation | variation display time. It is a flowchart which shows a game state transfer process. It is a block diagram which shows the electrical structure which concerns on a game effect. It is a flowchart which shows the variable display control process performed by MPU of an alerting | reporting / production control apparatus. It is a flowchart which shows the process for a fluctuation | variation start. (A) Schematic which shows the kind of fluctuation | variation display aspect, (b) It is the schematic which shows the outline | summary of each fluctuation | variation display aspect. It is a flowchart which shows pending information confirmation processing. It is a flowchart which shows the setting process of a pending | holding command. It is a flowchart which shows the production | presentation mode determination process performed by MPU of a alerting | reporting / production control apparatus. It is a flowchart which shows the process for operation corresponding | compatible effects performed by MPU of a alerting | reporting / effect control apparatus. It is a timing chart which illustrated the flow of operation corresponding production. It is a flowchart which shows the process for the 1st volume change performed by MPU of an alerting | reporting / production control apparatus. It is a flowchart which shows the process for 2nd volume change performed by MPU of an alerting | reporting / production control apparatus. It is a flowchart which shows the volume change possibility setting process performed by MPU of an alerting | reporting / production control apparatus. It is the timing chart which illustrated the flow of the game in case volume change is controlled. It is a flowchart which shows the effect mode rewriting process performed by MPU of a alerting | reporting / effect control apparatus in 2nd Embodiment. It is the schematic which shows the mode of the branch of production. It is the schematic which shows the mode of the branch of production. It is a flowchart which shows the volume change cancellation | release process performed by MPU of the alerting | reporting / production control apparatus in 3rd Embodiment. (A) Schematic which shows the relationship between 2nd volume change operation and cancellation | release conditions of volume change, (b) It is a timing chart which illustrated the flow of volume adjustment. It is a flowchart which shows the 2nd volume change process performed by MPU of the alerting | reporting / production control apparatus in 4th Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the process for volume correction performed by MPU of an alerting | reporting / production control apparatus. It is the schematic which shows the kind of sound source in 5th Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the process for 2nd volume change performed by MPU of an alerting | reporting / production control apparatus. (A) The flowchart which shows the 1st change process performed by MPU of an alerting | reporting / production control apparatus, (b) (c) The schematic which illustrated the flow of volume adjustment. It is the schematic which showed the change object sound source which changes according to a condition. It is a flowchart which shows the presentation mode determination process performed by MPU of a alerting | reporting / production control apparatus in 6th Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the volume change cancellation | release process performed by MPU of an alerting | reporting / production control apparatus.

<First Embodiment>
Hereinafter, a first embodiment of a pachinko gaming machine (hereinafter referred to as “pachinko machine”), which is a type of gaming machine, will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a front view of the pachinko machine 10, and FIGS. 2 and 3 are perspective views showing an unfolded main configuration of the pachinko machine 10. In FIG. 2, the configuration in the game area of the pachinko machine 10 is omitted for convenience.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the pachinko machine 10 includes an outer frame 11 that forms an outer shell of the pachinko machine 10, and a gaming machine body 12 that is rotatably attached to the outer frame 11. . The outer frame 11 is configured by connecting a plate-like frame material or the like to four sides and has a rectangular frame shape. The pachinko machine 10 is installed in the game hall by attaching and fixing the outer frame 11 to the island facility. In the pachinko machine 10, the outer frame 11 is not an essential configuration, and the outer frame 11 may be provided on the island facility of the game arcade.

  The gaming machine main body 12 includes an inner frame 13, a front door frame 14 disposed in front of the inner frame 13, and a back pack unit 15 disposed behind the inner frame 13. The inner frame 13 of the gaming machine main body 12 is supported so as to be rotatable with respect to the outer frame 11. Specifically, the inner frame 13 can be rotated forward with the left side as a rotation base end side and the right side as a rotation front end side in front view.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the front door frame 14 is rotatably supported on the inner frame 13, and can be rotated forward with the left side as a rotation base end side and the right side as a rotation front end side in a front view. It is said that. Further, as shown in FIG. 3, a backpack unit 15 is rotatably supported on the inner frame 13, and when viewed from the front, the left side is the rotation base end side and the right side is the rotation front end side. It is possible to move.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the gaming machine main body 12 is provided with a locking device 16 at its rotating tip, and has a function of making the gaming machine main body 12 locked to the outer frame 11 so that it cannot be opened. In addition, the front door frame 14 has a function of locking the front door frame 14 to the inner frame 13 so as not to be opened. Each of these locked states is released by performing an unlocking operation using the unlocking key on the cylinder lock 17 that is exposed on the front surface of the pachinko machine 10.

  Next, the configuration of the front side of the gaming machine body 12 will be described.

  The inner frame 13 is mainly composed of a resin base 21 whose outer shape is substantially the same as that of the outer frame 11. A substantially elliptical window hole 23 is formed at the center of the resin base 21. A game board 24 is detachably attached to the resin base 21. In a state where the game board 24 is attached to the resin base 21, the game area PE formed on the front surface of the game board 24 is exposed to the front side of the inner frame 13 through the window hole 23 of the resin base 21. Here, the structure of the game board 24 is demonstrated based on Fig.4 (a). FIG. 4A is a front view of the game board 24.

  The game board 24 has a plurality of large and small openings penetrating in the front-rear direction. Each opening has a general winning port 31, a variable winning device 32, an operating port unit 33 having an upper operating port 33a and a lower operating port 33b, a through gate 35, a variable display unit 36, a main display unit 43, and an accessory display unit. 44 etc. are provided respectively.

  When a ball enters the general winning port 31, the variable winning device 32, and the operating ports 33a and 33b, it is detected by a detection sensor disposed on the back side of the game board 24 and the like, and based on the detection result, a predetermined value is detected. A number of prize balls are paid out.

  In addition, an out port 37 is provided at the lowermost part of the game board 24, and game balls that have not entered various winning ports etc. are discharged from the game area PE through the out port 37. The game board 24 is provided with a large number of nails 38 in order to disperse and adjust the falling direction of the game ball as appropriate, and various members (functions) such as a windmill are provided.

  Here, the entry means that the game ball passes through a predetermined opening, and not only the mode of discharging from the game area PE after passing through the opening, but also the game area PE after passing through the opening. The aspect which is not discharged | emitted from is also included. However, in the following description, in order to clearly distinguish the game ball from entering the out port 37, the game ball entering the variable winning device 32, the operation ports 33a and 33b or the through gate 35 is also referred to as winning. Express.

  The upper working port 33a and the lower working port 33b are arranged side by side in the vertical direction, and both are opened upward. The operating port unit 33 is provided with a pair of left and right movable pieces 34a and an electric accessory 34 having a drive unit for operating the movable pieces 34a.

  The electric accessory 34 (specifically, the drive unit) is connected to a main control device to be described later, and based on a signal from the main control device, an open state (support state or guide) that allows the ball to enter the lower operation port 33b. State) and a closed state (non-support state or non-guide state) in which the entry into the lower working port 33b is impossible. Note that it is sufficient for the electric accessory 34 to be switchable between the first state and the second state in which a winning is more likely to occur than in the first state, and does not necessarily need to be switchable between the open state and the closed state. .

  In the pachinko machine 10, a plurality of types of support modes having different modes of support by the electric accessory 34 are set. Specifically, in the support mode, the frequency of the electric accessory 34 being released per unit time when compared with a situation in which the game ball is continuously being launched in the same manner with respect to the game area PE. The low frequency support mode (or low frequency guide state) and the high frequency support mode (or high frequency guide state) are set so as to be relatively high and low.

  In the high frequency support mode, there is a higher probability that a winning for the operating port will occur than in the low frequency support mode. Then, when a winning in the operating port occurs, a predetermined number of game balls are paid out. Therefore, in the high frequency support mode, the player can play a game while suppressing consumption (investment) of the ball.

  Here, with reference to FIG.4 (b), it demonstrates supplementarily about the operating port unit 33 provided with the operating ports 33a and 33b. FIG. 4B is a schematic diagram showing the internal structure of the working port unit 33.

  The operating port unit 33 is formed with a guide passage 33 c that guides the game ball that has flowed into the upper operating port 33 a to a recovery passage provided on the back side of the game board 24. The guide passage 33c branches into a first branch passage 33d and a second branch passage 33e at a midway position thereof.

  The branching position in the guide passage 33c is provided with a distribution means 33g for alternately distributing the game balls that have reached the branching position to the first branch passage 33d and the second branch passage 33e. The distribution means 33g can be switched between a first guidance state for guiding the game ball that has reached the branch position to the first branch passage 33d and a second guide state for guiding the game ball to the second branch passage 33e. The distribution means 33g is configured to switch from one guidance state to the other guidance state based on the guidance of the game ball. Therefore, the game balls that have flowed into the upper working port 33a are sequentially distributed to the first branch passage 33d / second branch passage 33e.

  The lower working port 33b is connected to the second branch passage through the communication passage 33f, and the game ball that has flowed into the lower working port 33b flows directly into the second branch passage. That is, the game ball that has flowed into the upper working port 33a can flow into both branch passages, while the game ball that has flowed into the lower working port 33b flows into only the second branch passage.

  A detection sensor 211c for detecting a game ball is disposed in the first branch passage 33d (hereinafter also referred to as the first ball entry portion 33d), and in the second branch passage 33e (hereinafter also referred to as the second ball entry portion 33e). A detection sensor 211d for detecting a game ball is disposed at a position downstream of the communicating portion of the communication passage 33f. These detection sensors 211c and 211d are connected to the main control unit. In the main control unit, the balls entering the branch passages 33d and 33e based on the detection information (detection signals) from the detection sensors 211c and 211d, that is, the operation port 33a. , 33b, whether or not there is a winning.

  The variable winning device 32 includes a large winning opening 32a that leads to the back side of the game board 24, and an open / close door 32b that opens and closes the large winning opening 32a. The open / close door 32b is normally in a closed state in which a game ball cannot be awarded to the big prize opening 32a, and when winning the opening / closing execution mode (opening / closing execution state) in the internal lottery, the big prize opening is obtained. The game ball can be switched to an open state in which the winning of the game ball to 32a is allowed. Here, the opening / closing execution mode is a mode to be shifted to when a big win is won. As an opening mode of the variable winning device 32 in the opening / closing execution mode, a predetermined time (for example, 30 sec) or a predetermined number (for example, 10) of winnings is defined as one round, and a variable winning is performed with a plurality of rounds (for example, 15 rounds) as an upper limit. There is a mode in which the device 32 is repeatedly opened. The variable winning device 32 only needs to be switchable between the first state and the second state in which a winning is more likely to occur, and does not necessarily need to be switchable between the open state and the closed state.

  The main display portion 43 and the accessory display portion 44 are provided on a decorative member 39 disposed along the outer edge on the lower side of the game area PE. The decorative member 39 protrudes from the board surface of the game board 24 to the front of the pachinko machine 10. More specifically, the front surface of the decorative member 39 faces the window panel 62 provided on the front door frame 14 so that the game area PE can be viewed from the front of the pachinko machine 10. The distance between is smaller than one game ball. This prevents the game ball from falling in front of the front surface of the decorative member 39.

  A main display unit 43 and an accessory display unit 44 are provided so as to be exposed from the front surface of the decorative member 39. That is, the main display unit 43 and the accessory display unit 44 are visible from the front of the pachinko machine 10 through the window panel 62 of the front door frame 14, and a game ball is in front of both the display units 43 and 44. It is suppressed from falling. In addition, on the upper surface of the decoration member 39, a part of the plurality of general winning ports 31 described above is installed in a state of being opened upward.

  Although the detailed description by illustration is abbreviate | omitted, the main display part 43 has a segment display, and the said segment display is provided with the result display part for an operation port. The result display section for the operation opening has a display area for the first entrance section 33d and a display area for the second entrance section 33e in a one-to-one correspondence with each of the entrance sections 33d and 33e. In these display areas, the result of the internal lottery performed based on the winning at the operation ports 33a and 33b (specifically, the winning at the balls 33d and 33e) is clearly shown. In this case, in the same display area, the display of variable display (variable display) is performed by sequentially turning on and off each display segment using a winning at the operation ports 33a and 33b as a trigger, and the display of the variable display is stopped. As a result, the result of the internal lottery performed based on the winning prize is clearly shown. That is, the lottery result based on the entrance to the first entrance portion 33d is clearly shown in the display area for the first entrance portion, and the lottery result based on the entrance to the second entrance portion 33e is the second entrance location. It is clearly shown in the display area for the department.

  Similarly to the main display unit 43, the accessory display unit 44 has a segment display, and the segment display is provided with an accessory result display unit. The accessory result display unit is a display unit for clearly indicating the result of the internal lottery performed based on winning through the through gate 35. In this case, in the result display section for an accessory, a variable display (or variable display or switching display) is performed by sequentially turning on and off each display segment using a winning at the through gate 35 as a trigger. The result of the internal lottery performed based on the winning to the through gate 35 is clearly indicated by the display as the result of the change display stop. When the result of the internal lottery based on the winning to the through gate 35 is a winning result corresponding to the transition to the state where the electric character is released, a predetermined stop result is displayed on the result display section for the accessory and the variable display After is stopped, it shifts to the electric utility open state. In the electric combination open state, the electric combination 34 provided in the lower working port 33b is opened in a predetermined manner.

  The variable display unit 36 is provided with a symbol display device 41 that has a display screen 41a and displays the symbols in a variable manner (variable display) on the display screen 41a. The variable display unit 36 is provided with a center frame 42 so as to surround the symbol display device 41 (specifically, the display screen 41a). The center frame 42 has an upper portion extending forward of the pachinko machine 10. As a result, the game ball is prevented from falling in front of the display screen 41a, and the visibility of the display screen 41a (for example, the above-described symbol or a holding image described later) is reduced due to the fall of the game ball. It is the structure which does not occur easily.

  The symbol display device 41 is configured as a liquid crystal display device including a liquid crystal display, and display contents are controlled by a display control device described later. On the symbol display device 41, for example, symbols are displayed side by side in the top, middle and bottom, and these symbols are variably displayed as they are scrolled in the horizontal direction. In this case, the variable display on the symbol display device 41 is started based on winning in the operation ports 33a and 33b. Then, for example, the symbol display device 41 is set in advance to the game times that shift to the opening / closing execution mode corresponding to 16 rounds in which the large winning opening 32a of the variable winning device 32 is opened 16 times as the opening / closing execution mode. A predetermined combination of symbols is stopped and displayed on the active line.

  A holding lamp portion 47 corresponding to the accessory result display portion of the accessory display portion 44 is provided below the center frame 42. The number of times that the game ball has passed through the through gate 35 is held up to a maximum of 4 times, and the holding number is displayed by turning on the holding lamp section 47. Note that the hold information corresponding to the through gate 35 may be displayed on the symbol display device 41.

  An inner rail portion 51 and an outer rail portion 52 are attached to the game board 24, and a guide rail is constituted by the inner rail portion 51 and the outer rail portion 52, and a game launched from the game ball launching mechanism 53. A ball is guided to the upper part of the game area PE. As shown in FIG. 2, the game ball launching mechanism 53 is attached below the window hole 23 in the resin base 21. The game ball launching mechanism 53 is operated by operating a firing handle 54 provided on the front door frame 14. Operation is performed.

  The front door frame 14 is provided so as to cover the entire front side of the inner frame 13, and the front door frame 14 has a window portion 61 that allows almost the entire game area PE to be viewed from the front. It is formed (see FIG. 1 or FIG. 2). As shown in FIG. 1, the window portion 61 has a substantially elliptic shape, and the above-described window panel 62 is fitted therein. Although the window panel 62 is colorless and transparent with glass, the window panel 62 is not limited to this and may be colorless and transparent with synthetic resin.

  Around the window 61, light emitting means such as various lamps are provided. A display lamp part 63 is provided above the window part 61 as a part of the various lamp parts. In addition, on both the left and right sides of the display lamp unit 63, speaker units 64 are provided for outputting sound effects corresponding to the gaming state.

  Below the window portion 61 in the front door frame 14, an upper bulging portion 65 and a lower bulging portion 66 that bulge to the near side are provided side by side. The upper bulging portion 65 is provided with an upper pan 71 that opens upward, and the lower bulging portion 66 is provided with a lower pan 72 that also opens upward. The upper plate 71 has a function of temporarily storing game balls paid out from a payout device described later and guiding them to the game ball launching mechanism 53 side while aligning them in a line. In addition, the lower tray 72 has a function of storing game balls that are surplus in the upper tray 71. The game balls paid out from the payout device 96 of the back pack unit 15 are discharged to the upper plate 71 and the lower plate 72 through a passage forming unit 73 (see FIG. 2) provided on the back surface of the front door frame 14.

  Further, an operation button 75 that is manually operated by the player is provided in an area facing the front of the pachinko machine 10 in the upper bulging portion 65. For example, when the operation button 75 is manually operated in accordance with the suggestion displayed on the display screen 41a of the symbol display device 41, the effect content on the display screen 41a of the symbol display device 41 corresponds to the predetermined effect content corresponding to the operation. It becomes.

  Next, the configuration on the back side of the gaming machine main body 12 will be described.

  As shown in FIG. 3, a main control device 81 and a notification / production control device 82 are mounted on the back surface of the inner frame 13 (specifically, the game board 24).

  The main control device 81 includes a main control board that controls the main control of the game and a power failure monitoring board that monitors the power source. The main control board and the power failure monitoring board are provided in a board box 83 made of a transparent resin material or the like. Contained and configured. The board box 83 includes a substantially rectangular parallelepiped box base (front case body) and a box cover (back case body) that covers an opening of the box base. The box base and the box cover are connected to each other in a non-separable manner by a box coupling portion 85 as a separation preventing means (or a coupling means), thereby sealing the substrate box 83. And by being connected inseparably by these box coupling | bond parts 85, when the internal space of the board | substrate box 83 is open | released, it has the structure which needs destruction of the said board | substrate box 83 or a part of excision. A plurality of box coupling portions 85 are provided on the long side portion of the substrate box 83, and at least one of them is used for the coupling process.

  The box coupling portion 85 can be applied to any configuration as long as the box base and the box cover are coupled so as not to be opened, but by inserting a locking claw into the long hole constituting the box coupling portion 85, The box cover is connected to the box cover so that it cannot be opened. The coupling process by the box coupling unit 85 prevents unauthorized opening after the coupling, and makes it possible to detect such a situation early and easily even if unauthorized opening is performed. Even after the opening, it is possible to perform the opening process again. That is, the coupling process is performed by inserting a locking claw into at least one of the plurality of box coupling portions 85. When the board box 83 is opened, such as when a failure occurs in the accommodated main control board or when the main control board is inspected, the box coupling portion 85 into which the locking claw is inserted and the other box coupling portion 85 The connecting part of the box and the connecting part with the box body are cut. Thereby, the box base and the box cover of the board box 83 are separated, and the internal main control board can be taken out. Thereafter, when the coupling process is performed again, the locking claw is inserted into the long hole of the other box coupling portion 85. If the history of opening the board box 83 is left in the board box 83, it can be easily found that the illegal opening has been performed by looking at the board box 83.

  A plurality of coupling pieces 86 are provided on one short side of the substrate box 83 so as to protrude laterally. These coupling pieces 86 have a one-to-one correspondence with a plurality of coupled pieces 87 formed on the mounting base of the main control device 81, and the board box 83 and the mounting base are formed by the coupling pieces 86 and the coupled pieces 87. Between them.

  In addition, as a trace means for discovering unauthorized opening of the substrate box 83, a seal seal may be attached so as to straddle the boundary between the box base and the box cover. In this case, when the seal seal is peeled off from the pasted portion, the adhesive layer of the seal seal remains on the substrate box 83 side, and the trace remains. Further, an IC tag that transmits a response wave including identification information to the ringing wave having a predetermined frequency is provided on the seal sticker. When the seal sticker is peeled off, the antenna of the IC tag is cut and the response It is good also as a structure which cannot transmit a wave.

  The notification / production control device 82 includes a notification / production control board that controls voice and lamp display and control of a display control device (not shown) according to an instruction from the main control device 81. The notification / production control board is a transparent resin. It is configured to be accommodated in a substrate box 84 made of a material or the like.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the back pack unit 15 includes a back pack 91, and a payout mechanism 92 and a control device assembly unit 93 are attached to the back pack 91. The back pack 91 is formed of a transparent synthetic resin, and includes a protective cover portion 94 that protrudes rearward and has a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape so as to cover the main control device 81 and the notification / production control device 82 from the rear. Have.

  The payout mechanism portion 92 is disposed so as to bypass the protective cover portion 94, and a tank 95 to which game balls supplied from island facilities in the game hall are sequentially replenished, and a game stored in the tank 95. A payout device 96 for paying out balls. The game balls paid out from the payout device 96 are discharged to the upper plate 71 or the lower plate 72 through a payout passage (not shown) provided on the downstream side of the payout device 96. Further, the payout mechanism 92 is mounted with a back pack substrate on which a main power supply of, for example, 24 volts AC is supplied and a power switch for turning on and off the power is provided.

  Further, the back pack 91 is provided with an external output terminal plate 99 on the rotation axis side of the back pack unit 15 and on the upper edge side. The external output terminal plate 99 has an output terminal for outputting a signal when there is a shortage of game balls in the tank 95 or the like, an output terminal for outputting a signal every time a predetermined number of prize balls are paid out, and a predetermined number of game balls. State transition such as an output terminal for outputting a signal every time a loan is made, an output terminal for outputting a signal when the gaming machine body 12 is opened, an output terminal for outputting a signal when the front door frame 14 is opened, and an opening / closing execution mode At this time (or during the transition to the state), an output terminal for outputting a signal is provided. And the signal regarding the state of a frame side is output with respect to the management control apparatus of the game hall side through these output terminals. Note that an output terminal for outputting a signal every time a predetermined number of game balls are lent out is not necessary in a so-called cash machine.

  The control device assembly unit 93 includes a payout control device 97 and a power supply / launch control device 98. The payout control device 97 and the power supply / launch control device 98 are arranged so as to overlap each other so that the payout control device 97 is located behind the pachinko machine 10.

  The payout control device 97 is configured such that a payout control board for controlling the payout device 96 is accommodated in a substrate box. In this case, fraud suppression means similar to the substrate box 83 of the main control device 81 may be applied to the substrate box of the payout control device 97.

  The power / launch control device 98 is configured such that a power / launch control board is accommodated in a board box, and predetermined power required by various control devices and the like is generated and output by the board, and further, by the player Control of the launch of the game ball accompanying the operation of the firing handle 54 is performed. In addition, the pachinko machine 10 has a function for storing and storing various data, so that even if a power failure occurs, it can maintain the state at the time of the power failure and can return to the state at the time of the power failure when returning from the power failure. It is like that.

(Electric configuration of the pachinko machine 10)
Next, the electrical configuration of the pachinko machine 10 will be described based on the block diagram of FIG.

  An MPU 202 is mounted on the main control board 201 provided in the main control device 81. The MPU 202 is a ROM 203 that stores various control programs executed by the MPU 202 and fixed value data, and a memory that temporarily stores various data when the control program stored in the ROM 203 is executed. The RAM 204 is an element incorporating an interrupt circuit, a timer circuit, a data input / output circuit, various counter circuits as a random number generator, and the like. Note that a part of the functions of the MPU 202, for example, the function of the ROM 203 and the function of the RAM 204 may be provided as separate elements.

  The MPU 202 is provided with an input port and an output port. On the input side of the MPU 202, a power failure monitoring board 205 provided in the main control device 81, a payout control device 97, various detection sensors 211a to 211e, and the like are connected. In this case, a power / fire control device 98 is connected to the power failure monitoring board 205, and power is supplied to the MPU 202 via the power failure monitoring board 205. Further, as a part of the various detection sensors 211a to 211e, the general winning port 31, the variable winning device 32, the operating ports 33a and 33b (specifically, the first ball entering portion 33d and the second ball entering portion 33e), the through gate 35, and the like. The detection sensors provided in the various winning-corresponding pitching portions (payout-corresponding pitching portions) are connected to each other, and the MPU 202 of the main control device 81 performs each winning based on the detection information (detection signals) from these detection sensors. A winning determination (entrance determination) to the ball part is performed. In addition, the MPU 202 executes a lottery generation lottery based on the winnings to the operation ports 33a and 33b, and executes the support generation lottery based on the winnings to the through gate 35.

  On the output side of the MPU 202, a power failure monitoring board 205, a payout control device 97, and a notification / production control device 82 are connected. For example, a prize ball command is output to the payout control device 97 based on a winning determination result for a winning-corresponding winning portion such as the operation ports 33a and 33b described above. In this case, when outputting the prize ball command, the command information storage area 224 of the ROM 203 is referred to. When the winning to the general winning opening 31 is specified, a winning ball command corresponding to paying out 10 gaming balls is output, and when the winning to the variable winning device 32 is specified, 15 gaming balls are output. When the winning ball command corresponding to the payout of the game is output and the winning to the first pitching portion 33d is specified, the winning ball command corresponding to the payout of three game balls is output to the second pitching portion 33e. When the winning is specified, a winning ball command corresponding to the payout of four game balls is output.

  Various commands such as a change command, a type command, a change end command, an opening command, an ending command, a hold command, and a shift command are output from the main control device 81 to the notification / production control device 82. In this case, the command information storage area 224 of the ROM 203 is referred to when these various commands are output. Details of these various commands will be described later. Each command is configured as information of a predetermined number of bytes, and various information is included as information of the predetermined number of bytes.

  Further, on the output side of the MPU 202, a variable winning drive unit 32c that opens and closes the opening / closing door 32b of the variable winning device 32, an electric accessory driving unit 34b that opens and closes the movable piece 34a of the electric accessory 34, and a main display unit. 43 is connected. The main control board 201 is provided with various driver circuits, and the MPU 202 performs drive control of various drive units through the driver circuits.

  That is, in the opening / closing execution mode, drive control of the variable winning drive unit 32c is executed in the MPU 202 so that the special winning opening 32a is opened and closed. Further, when the support lottery of the electric agent 34 is won, drive control of the electric agent driving unit 34b is executed in the MPU 202 so that the electric agent 34 is opened and closed. In addition, display control of the main display unit 43 is executed by the MPU 202.

  Further, an external output terminal board 99 is connected to the output side of the MPU 202, and information on the entrance to various entrances through the external output terminal board 99 to the management control device (hall computer HC) on the game hall side. Information on the lottery results such as the jackpot and the jackpot is output. Thereby, it is possible to grasp the state and the like of the pachinko machine 10 by the hall computer HC.

  The power failure monitoring board 205 relays between the main control board 201 and the power / fire control device 98, and the power failure monitoring board 205 has a DC stable voltage of 24 volts which is the maximum voltage output from the power / fire control device 98. The function to monitor is given. The payout control device 97 performs payout control of prize balls and rental balls by the payout device 96 based on the prize ball command input from the main control device 81.

  The power source / launch control device 98 is connected to, for example, a commercial power source (external power source) in a game hall or the like. Based on the external power supplied from the commercial power supply, necessary operating power is generated for each of the main control board 201 and the payout control device 97, and the generated operating power is supplied through a predetermined power path. To do. The power supply / launch control device 98 is responsible for launch control of the game ball launch mechanism 53, and the game ball launch mechanism 53 is driven when predetermined launch conditions are met.

  The notification / production control device 82 is based on various commands input from the main control device 81, the holding lamp unit 47 provided in the variable display unit 36, the display lamp unit 63 and the speaker unit 64 provided in the front door frame 14. And the like, and the display control device 212 is controlled.

  The display control device 212 executes display control of the symbol display device 41 based on the command input from the notification / production control device 82. In this case, in the notification / production control device 82, based on various commands input from the main control device 81, the symbol variation display mode (for example, presence / absence of reach generation, contents of reach production, etc.) and the symbol on the symbol display device 41. The outline of the stop display mode (the combination of symbols to be finally stopped and displayed when the variable display is ended) is specified.

  Here, the configuration related to the variable display of symbols of each game time and the content of the variable display will be described. In the following description, FIGS. 6 and 7 are referred to as appropriate. 6 and 7 are schematic diagrams for explaining display contents on the display screen 41a of the symbol display device 41. FIG.

  The display control device 212 is provided with a character ROM. In the character ROM, nine types of main symbol data (see FIGS. 6 (a) to (i)) with numbers “1” to “9”, and sub symbol data without numbers. (Refer to FIG. 6J) is stored in advance.

  As shown in FIG. 7A, on the display screen 41a of the symbol display device 41, three symbol rows Z1, Z2 and Z3 of the upper, middle and lower stages are set. Each of the symbol rows Z1 to Z3 includes a main symbol and a sub symbol arranged in a predetermined order. On the display screen 41a, the symbols in the symbol rows Z1 to Z3 are displayed in a variable manner so as to scroll in a predetermined direction (specifically, from right to left) with periodicity.

  In the upper symbol row Z1, nine types of main symbols “1” to “9” are arranged in descending order of numbers, and one sub symbol is arranged between each main symbol. In the lower symbol row Z3, nine types of main symbols “1” to “9” are arranged in ascending numerical order, and one sub symbol is arranged between each main symbol. That is, the upper symbol row Z1 and the lower symbol row Z3 are composed of 18 symbols. On the other hand, in the middle symbol row Z2, nine types of main symbols “1” to “9” are arranged in ascending numerical order, and then between the main symbol “9” and the main symbol “1”. In addition, a main symbol “4” is additionally arranged, and one sub symbol is arranged between each main symbol. In other words, only the middle symbol row Z2 is composed of 20 symbols by arranging 10 main symbols.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 7B, the display screen 41a is configured such that three symbols are stopped and displayed for each symbol row, and as a result, a total of nine symbols of 3 × 3 are stopped and displayed. It has come to be. Further, five effective lines, that is, a left line L1, a middle line L2, a right line L3, a right lower line L4, and a right upper line L5 are set on the display screen 41a. Then, the variable display stops in the order of the upper symbol row Z1 → the lower symbol row Z3 → the middle symbol row Z2, and a predetermined symbol combination (for example, a combination of symbols with the same numerals) is formed on any effective line. When the variation display of all the symbol rows Z1 to Z3 is finished in the state of being played, the big hit video is displayed as the occurrence of the normal jackpot result or the probability variation jackpot result.

  In view of the fact that the variable display of each symbol row is stopped as described above, the upper symbol row Z1 is the first symbol row (or the first symbol row), and the lower symbol row Z3 is the second symbol row (or the second symbol row). 2 symbol rows), the middle symbol row Z2 can be referred to as a third symbol row (or third symbol row).

  Of the above main symbols, the main symbols with odd numbers (1, 3, 5, 7, 9) correspond to “specific symbols”, and if a probable jackpot result occurs, for example, the same specific symbols The combination of is stopped and displayed. In addition, the main symbols with even numbers (2, 4, 6, 8) correspond to “non-specific symbols”. When a normal jackpot result occurs, for example, the combination of the same non-specific symbols is stopped and displayed. Is done.

  In addition, the mode of the display of the symbol variation in the symbol display device 41 is not limited to the above, and is arbitrary. The number of symbol columns, the direction of the symbol variation display in the symbol sequence, the number of symbols in each symbol column, etc. Can be appropriately changed. For example, a plurality of symbol sequences may be set to be arranged side by side, and the direction of symbol variation display in the symbol sequence may be set to the vertical direction.

  On the display screen 41a, a hold display area NE is set in a portion below the variable display area ME having the variable display area of the upper symbol row, the variable display area of the middle symbol, and the variable display area of the lower symbol. ing. In the hold display area NE, the same number of unit hold display areas Da1 to Da8 as the maximum hold number in the case where a game ball wins the operation ports 33a and 33b (when the ball enters the ball entering portions 33d and 33e). A reserved number display area Da divided in a line in the left-right direction is provided.

  Specifically, the maximum number of reserved balls when the game ball enters the first ball entering portion 33d is four, and the maximum number of reserved balls when the game ball enters the second ball entering portion 33e is four. Although details will be described later, in the present embodiment, a total of eight pieces of pending information are stored in the order of winning in the first and second pitching portions 33d and 33e. Correspondingly, in the hold number display area Da, the first unit hold display area Da1, the second unit hold display area Da2, the third unit hold display area Da3, the fourth unit hold display area Da4, the fifth unit hold display. An area Da5, a sixth unit hold display area Da6, a seventh unit hold display area Da7, and an eighth unit hold display area Da8 are set.

  For example, when the number of holds (total number of holds) when the game ball wins the operation ports 33a and 33b is 1, a predetermined hold display image MP is displayed only in the first unit hold display area Da1. When the number of holds when the game ball wins the operating ports 33a and 33b is four, a predetermined hold display image MP is displayed in the first unit hold display area Da1 to the fourth unit hold display area Da4. It becomes the composition which is done. Note that FIG. 7B illustrates a case where the number of reservations is three.

  Further, in the hold display area NE, a hold display image corresponding to the game time being executed (running) so as to be side by side with the hold number display area Da (specifically, the first unit hold display area Da1). An execution target display area Db in which MP is displayed is provided.

  When the game round is finished and the next game round is started, the hold display image MP displayed in the hold count display area Da (first unit hold display area Da1) moves to the execution target display area Db. The hold display image MP displayed in the hold number display area Da is shifted to the lower side.

(About various counters)
Next, the operation of the pachinko machine 10 configured as described above will be described.

  The MPU 202 uses lots of counter information in the game to perform jackpot occurrence lottery, setting of the display of the main display unit 43, setting of the outline of the symbol display of the symbol display device 41, setting of the display of the accessory display unit 44, and the like. Specifically, as shown in the schematic diagram of FIG. 8, the jackpot random number counter C1 used for the lottery in which the jackpot is generated, and the jackpot type used when determining the jackpot type such as the probability variation jackpot result or the normal jackpot result The counter C2, the reach random number counter C3 used for reach lottery when the symbol display device 41 fluctuates and fluctuates, the random number initial value counter CINI used for setting the initial value of the jackpot random number counter C1, and the operation port of the main display unit 43 And a variation type counter CS that determines a variation display time in the symbol display device 41. There. Furthermore, the electric accessory release counter C4 used for the lottery to determine whether or not the electric accessory 34 in the lower operation port 33b is in the electric utility open state is used.

  Each of the counters C1 to C3, CINI, CS, and C4 is a loop counter that adds 1 to the previous value every time it is updated and returns to 0 after reaching the maximum value. Each counter is updated at short time intervals, and the updated value is appropriately stored in a lottery counter buffer 231 set in a predetermined area of the RAM 204. In the lottery counter buffer 231, information corresponding to the jackpot random number counter C1, the jackpot type counter C2 and the reach random number counter C3 is awarded to the operation ports 33a and 33b (specifically, the first pitching portion 33d or the second pitching portion). 33e), it is stored in the reserved ball storage area 232 as the acquisition information storage means.

  The holding ball storage area 232 includes a holding area RE for an operating port and an execution area AE. The reserved area RE includes a first area Ra1, a second area Ra2, a third area Ra3, a fourth area Ra4, a fifth area Ra5, a sixth area Ra6, a seventh area Ra7, and an eighth area Ra8. The jackpot random number counter C1 stored in the lottery counter buffer 231 and the jackpot according to the winning histories to the mouths 33a and 33b (specifically, the histories of the first pitching section 33d and the second pitching section 33e) Each numerical value information of the type counter C2 and the reach random number counter C3 is stored in any of the areas Ra1 to Ra8 as the hold information. Note that the hold information corresponds to special information.

  In the first area Ra1 to the eighth area Ra8, winnings to the operation ports 33a and 33b (specifically, balls entering the first ball entering portion 33d and the second ball entering portion 33e) are continuously generated a plurality of times. In addition, each numerical information is time-sequentially in the order of the first area Ra1, the second area Ra2, the third area Ra3, the fourth area Ra4, the fifth area Ra5, the sixth area Ra6, the seventh area Ra7, and the eighth area Ra8. It will be stored in. By providing the eight areas Ra1 to Ra8 in this way, four game balls have a history of entering the first ball entry portion 33d and the second ball entry portion 33e, that is, to the operation ports 33a and 33b. Up to a total of 8 winning histories are reserved and stored. Further, the reserved ball storage area 232 is provided with a total reserved number storage area, and the total reserved number storage area is obtained and acquired based on the entry into the first incoming ball portion 33d or the second incoming ball portion 33e. Information for specifying the stored number of stored hold information is stored.

  For example, when a ball is generated only in one of the first ball portion 33d and the second ball portion 33e and the number thereof is 4 or more, the maximum memory number related to winning in the operation ports 33a and 33b Is limited to four, but as long as game balls enter the first and second balls 33d and 33e alternately by the distributing means 33g described above, the winnings to the operation ports 33a and 33b are won. Will be raised to eight. In other words, in the present embodiment, it is possible to prevent the number of stored pieces of pending information from reaching a peak at 4 even under circumstances where winning to the lower working port 33b is difficult to occur. .

  The execution area AE is an area for moving each value stored in the first area Ra1 of the holding area RE when the variable display on the main display unit 43 is started. Based on various numerical information stored in the AE, determination of success or failure is performed.

  For details of each counter, the jackpot random number counter C1 is configured such that, for example, 1 is added in order within a range of 0 to 299, and after reaching the maximum value (that is, 299), it returns to 0. In particular, when the jackpot random number counter C1 makes one round, the value of the random number initial value counter CINI at that time is read as the initial value of the jackpot random number counter C1. The random number initial value counter CINI is a loop counter similar to the jackpot random number counter C1 (value = 0 to 299). The jackpot random number counter C1 is periodically updated, and when the game ball wins the operation ports 33a and 33b, the timing at which the game ball that has flowed into the ball entering portions 33d and 33e is detected by the detection sensors 211c and 211d in detail. Is stored in the reserved ball storage area 232 of the RAM 204.

  The value of the random number for winning the jackpot is stored as a success / failure table (availability information group) in a success / failure table storage area 221 as a success / failure information group storage means in the ROM 203. Here, the contents of the success / failure table will be described.

  In the success / failure table, address information composed of binary number information and jackpot numerical value information composed of binary number information are set in a one-to-one correspondence. Specifically, ten types of address information expressed in decimal numbers from “1” to “10” are set, and jackpot value information is expressed in decimal numbers as “7”, “36”, “67”. , “100”, “131”, “164”, “195”, “223”, “241”, “272” are set, and the address information and the jackpot value information are in a one-to-one relationship. It is associated. The numerical value of each jackpot numerical value information is included in “0” to “299”, which is the numerical range of the random number information that can be updated in the jackpot random number counter C1.

  Here, in the pachinko machine 10, a low probability mode (low probability state) and a high probability mode (high probability state) are set as the lottery modes in the success / failure lottery means. The number of jackpot numerical information referred to in the low probability mode is different from the number of jackpot numerical information referred to in the high probability mode, and the former is smaller than the latter. Specifically, in the low probability mode, only the jackpot value information whose address information is “1” is referred to in the lottery lottery, and in the high probability mode, the jackpot number information corresponding to all the address information is determined in the lottery lottery. Referenced. In other words, there is one piece of numerical information for winning the jackpot in the low probability mode, and there are ten pieces of numerical information in the high probability mode, which is more than in the low probability mode. As a result, the probability of winning the jackpot in the low probability mode is 1/300, whereas the probability of winning the jackpot in the high probability mode is 1/30, and the high probability mode is a jackpot than the low probability mode. The probability of winning is increased. If the winning probability in the high probability mode is higher than that in the low probability mode, the number and value of the random numbers to be won are arbitrary.

  The jackpot type counter C2 is incremented by 1 within a range of 0 to 29, and reaches a maximum value (that is, 29) and then returns to 0. The jackpot type counter C2 is periodically updated, and when the game ball wins the operation ports 33a and 33b, the timing at which the detection ball 211c and 211d detects the game ball that has flowed into the ball entering portions 33d and 33e in detail. Is stored in the reserved ball storage area 232 of the RAM 204.

  The game result distribution destination for the big hit type counter C2 is stored as a distribution table (distribution information group) in a distribution table storage area as a distribution information group storage means in the ROM 203. Then, a normal jackpot result (low probability special game result) and a probability variable jackpot result (high probability special game result) are set as the distribution destinations.

  The normal jackpot result is that the winning lottery mode becomes the low probability mode after the opening / closing execution mode ends, and the support frequency is high until the number of games reaches the end reference number (specifically, 100 times) after the support mode shifts. It is a jackpot result that becomes a mode. After the end reference count has elapsed, the mode shifts to the low frequency support mode.

  The probability variation jackpot result is a jackpot result in which the success / failure lottery mode becomes the high probability mode and the support mode becomes the high frequency support mode after the opening / closing execution mode ends. The high-frequency support mode continues until the lottery result in the winning or failing lottery becomes a big hit state winning and the operation shifts to the opening / closing execution mode.

  In the allocation table, “0-9” corresponds to the normal jackpot result, and “10-29” corresponds to the probability variation jackpot result, but this numerical allocation is arbitrary.

  In the present embodiment, a difference is provided so that the allocation based on the entrance to the second entrance 33e is more advantageous to the player than the allocation based on the entrance to the first entrance 33d. . Specifically, the probability variation jackpot results are roughly divided into two results with different advantages, specifically, the first probability variation jackpot result with a round number of “16” and the second probability variable jackpot result with a round number of “4”. In the case where a probability variation jackpot result is obtained by the allocation based on the entrance to the second entrance portion 33e, the result is a comparison with the case where the probability change jackpot result is obtained by the allocation based on the entrance to the first entrance portion 33d. By adopting a configuration that is likely to result in a one-probability big hit result, the above-described advantages are achieved in the distribution mode based on the entrance to the first entrance portion 33d and the distribution mode based on the entrance to the second entrance portion 33e. The difference is caused.

  For example, the reach random number counter C3 is incremented one by one within a range of 0 to 238, for example, and reaches a maximum value (that is, 238) and then returns to 0. The reach random number counter C3 is periodically updated, and when the game ball wins the operation ports 33a and 33b, the timing at which the game ball that has flowed into the ball entering portions 33d and 33e is detected by the detection sensors 211c and 211d in detail. Is stored in the reserved ball storage area 232 of the RAM 204. Then, based on the reach table stored in the reach table storage area of the ROM 203, it is determined whether to generate a reach. However, in the game times that shift to the open / close execution mode, the MPU 202 determines the occurrence of reach regardless of the value of the reach random number counter C3. The number of reach random number counters C3 corresponding to the occurrence of reach display is the same in each gaming state, but may be set individually according to the gaming state. For example, when the support mode is the high frequency support mode, the number of reach random number counters C3 corresponding to the occurrence of reach display may be set larger than that in the low frequency support mode.

  Here, the reach display (reach state) includes a symbol display device 41 capable of performing variable display (or variable display) of symbols (pictures), and the opening / closing execution mode of the variable winning device 32 is a high-frequency winning mode. In the game machine in which the stop display result after the variable display is a special display result in the game times to be, the stop display result is derived and displayed after the variable display (or variable display) of the symbol (picture) on the symbol display device 41 is started. This means a display state for making the player think that the display state is a variable display state that is likely to result in the special display result in the previous stage.

  In other words, a combination of jackpot symbols corresponding to the occurrence of the high-frequency winning mode can be obtained by stopping and displaying symbols for some of the symbol sequences displayed on the display screen 41a of the symbol display device 41. This is a display state in which a combination of reach symbols that may be established is displayed, and in that state, the symbols are displayed in a variable manner in the remaining symbol rows.

  More specifically, as a step before ending the symbol variation display, a combination of jackpot symbols corresponding to the occurrence of the high-frequency winning mode is set on a preset active line in the display screen 41a of the symbol display device 41. A reach line is formed by stopping and displaying a combination of reach symbols that may be established, and a symbol change display is performed by a final stop symbol row in a situation where the reach line is formed.

  With reference to FIG. 7, the display mode in the case of the reach display will be exemplified. In the case of reach display, the symbol variation display is first terminated (stopped display) in the upper symbol row Z1, and the symbol variation display is terminated (stopped display) in the lower symbol row Z3. In the state, the reach line is formed by stopping and displaying the main symbols having the same numbers on any of the effective lines L1 to L5. Then, in a state where the reach line is formed, the symbol display is performed in the middle symbol row Z2 to achieve reach display. When the high-frequency winning mode occurs, the main symbol with the same number as the main symbol forming the reach line is stopped and displayed on the reach line in the middle symbol row Z2. The symbol variation display is terminated.

  In the reach display, in the state where the combination of reach symbols is displayed as described above, the variation display of symbols is performed on the remaining symbol rows, and a predetermined character or the like is displayed as a moving image on the background screen. There are those that produce an effect, and those that perform a reach effect by displaying a predetermined character or the like as a moving image on almost the entire display screen after reducing or not displaying a combination of reach symbols. Further, when reach display is performed or before reach display, it is determined using the reach random number counter C3 or other counter whether or not to perform a notice display using a predetermined image such as a predetermined character. May be.

  For example, the variation type counter CS is incremented one by one within a range of 0 to 198, for example, and reaches a maximum value (that is, 198) and then returns to 0. The variation type counter CS is used when the MPU 202 determines the variation display time on the main display unit 43 and the symbol variation display time on the symbol display device 41. The variation type counter CS is updated once every time a normal process to be described later is executed once, and is repeatedly updated even within the remaining time in the normal process. Then, the buffer value of the variation type counter CS is acquired when the symbol display apparatus 41 determines the variation pattern at the start of symbol variation.

  When determining the variable display time in the symbol display device 41 or the main display unit 43 (specifically, the result display unit for the working port), the buffer values of the reach random number counter C3 and the variable type counter CS, and the variable display time table storage in the ROM 203 are stored. Area 223 is referred to. Further, in the MPU 202, the stop result in the result display unit for the operating port is determined using the value of the jackpot random number counter C1 and the value of the jackpot type counter C2 stored in the execution area AE. The stop result determination table stored in the ROM 203 is used.

  For example, the electric accessory release counter C4 is incremented by 1 in order within a range of 0 to 249 and returns to 0 after reaching the maximum value (that is, 249). The electric accessory release counter C4 is periodically updated and stored in the electric combination holding area 233 of the RAM 204 at the timing when a game ball wins the through gate 35. Then, at a predetermined timing, a lottery is performed as to whether or not to control the electric accessory 34 to the open state based on the stored value of the electric accessory release counter C4. For example, if C4 = 0 to 199, the electric accessory 34 is controlled to be in an open state, and if C4 = 200 to 249, the electric accessory 34 is not controlled to be in an open state.

(About various processes executed by the main controller 81)
Next, a timer interrupt process and a normal process that are executed when the MPU 202 in the main controller 81 advances the game in each game time will be described. In addition to the timer interrupt process and the normal process, the MPU 202 executes a main process activated when the power is turned on and an NMI interrupt process activated by input of a power failure signal to the NMI terminal (non-maskable terminal). Explanation of these various processes is omitted.

(Timer interrupt processing)
First, the timer interrupt process will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. This process is started periodically by the MPU 202 (for example, at a cycle of 2 msec).

  In step S101, reading processing of various winning detection sensors is executed. That is, the state of various winning detection sensors connected to the main control device 81 is read, the state of the winning detection sensor is determined, and the detection information (winning detection information) is stored.

  Thereafter, in step S102, the random number initial value counter CINI is updated. Specifically, the random number initial value counter CINI is incremented by 1 and cleared to 0 when the counter value reaches the maximum value. Then, the update value of the random number initial value counter CINI is stored in the corresponding buffer area of the RAM 204.

  In subsequent step S103, the big hit random number counter C1, the big hit type counter C2, the reach random number counter C3, and the electric accessory release counter C4 are updated. Specifically, the jackpot random number counter C1, the jackpot type counter C2, the reach random number counter C3, and the electric accessory release counter C4 are each incremented by 1, and are cleared to 0 when the counter values reach the maximum value. Then, the updated values of the counters C1 to C4 are stored in the corresponding buffer area of the RAM 204.

  In a succeeding step S104, a through winning process associated with winning through the through gate 35 is executed. In the through winning process, it is determined whether or not a through gate winning detection flag is stored in the various flag storage areas 235 of the RAM 204. If the same flag is stored, it is stored in the electric utility reservation area. On the condition that the number of stored accessory holdings is less than 4, the value of the electric accessory release counter C4 updated in the step S103 is stored in the electronic combination holding area. In addition, a process for lighting the hold lamp section 47 of the variable display unit 36 corresponding to the hold memory number is executed for the notification / production control device 82. If the through-gate winning detection flag is stored in the various flag storage areas 235, the winning detection flag is deleted and the through-gate winning process is terminated.

  After performing the winning process for the through gate in step S104, the process proceeds to step S105, and the winning process for the operating port accompanying the winning to the operating ports 33a and 33b is performed in step S105, and this timer interruption process is completed. To do.

(Prize processing for working port)
Here, the winning process for the operation port will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS.

  In step S201, it is determined whether or not the game ball has entered (wins) the first ball entry portion 33d. If it is determined that the game ball has entered the first ball entry portion 33d, the process proceeds to step S202, and a prize ball command for causing the payout control device 97 to pay out three game balls is set.

  In the subsequent step S203, an external signal setting process is performed so that information indicating that a game ball has entered the first ball entry portion 33d is output to the hall computer HC on the game hall side. As a result, the hall computer HC recognizes that a ball has entered the first ball portion 33d. Thereafter, in step S204, an information acquisition process for storing each value such as the jackpot random number counter C1 and the jackpot type counter C2 is performed, and the main winning process is terminated.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S201 that the game ball has not won the first pitching portion 33d, the process proceeds to step S205. In step S205, it is determined whether or not the game ball has entered (wins) the second entrance part 33e. If it is determined that the game ball has entered the second ball entering portion 33e, the process proceeds to step S205, and a prize ball command for causing the payout control device 97 to pay out four game balls is set. The prize ball command set in steps S202 and S205 is transmitted to the payout control device 97 in an external output process S401 of a normal process described later.

  In the subsequent step S207, an external signal setting process is performed so that information indicating that a game ball has entered the second ball entry portion 33e is output to the hall computer HC on the game hall side. As a result, the hall computer HC recognizes that the entry to the second entry portion 33e has occurred. Thereafter, an information acquisition process is performed in step S204, and the main winning process is terminated.

  If a negative determination is made in both steps S201 and S205, that is, if there is no entry in either the first entry part 33d or the second entry part 33e, the main winning process is performed as it is. finish.

  Here, the information acquisition process in step S204 will be described with reference to FIG.

(Information acquisition process)
In the information acquisition process, first, in step S301, the number N of starting reserved balls stored in the reserved number storage area FE of the reserved ball storage area 232, more specifically, of the first and second balls 33d and 33e, It is determined whether or not the number N of starting reserved balls related to the pitching portion that has triggered the information acquisition process is less than the upper limit value (“4” in the present embodiment). If the start hold storage number N is the upper limit value, the information acquisition process is terminated as it is. If the start hold storage number N is less than the upper limit value, the start hold storage number N of the corresponding entry portion is incremented by 1 in step S302. At the same time, the total number of holds stored in the hold number storage area FE in step S303 (hereinafter referred to as the common hold number CRN) is incremented by one.

  In the subsequent step S304, the values of the jackpot random number counter C1, the jackpot type counter C2, the reach random number counter C3, and the variation type counter CS updated in the above step S103 are used as the first of the free storage area areas in the working port reservation area RE. In the storage area corresponding to the common hold number CRN incremented by 1 in step S302.

  In subsequent step S305 and step S306, a notification / production control device 82, which is a sub-side (sub-side) control device, that a winning in the operating ports 33a, 33b (a ball entering into the ball entering portions 33d, 33e) has occurred. Then, a hold confirmation process and a hold command setting process, which are processes for causing the display control device 212 to recognize, are executed, and the information acquisition process is terminated. Note that the hold command includes information indicating which one of the first pitching portion 33d and the second pitching portion 33e is based on winning.

  The hold command set in the hold command setting process in step S306 is transmitted to the notification / production control device 82 and the display control device 212 in an external output process (step S401) of a normal process described later. The display control device 212 receives the hold command and executes a process for changing the display in the hold number display area Da described above in accordance with the increase in the hold number.

  Specifically, when the display control device 212 receives the same command via the notification / production control device 82, the display control device 212 displays the hold display image MP in the hold count display area Da. A process for (for example) adding is executed. In the hold number display area Da, the hold images are displayed sequentially from the left side. For example, if the common hold number CRN is 1, the hold image is displayed in the first unit hold display area Da1 at the left end, and the common hold is displayed. If the number CRN is 8, the hold image is displayed in the eighth unit hold display area Da8 that is the eighth from the left. A detailed description of each process in steps S305 and S306 will be described later.

(Normal processing)
Next, the flow of normal processing will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. The normal process is a process that is started after the main process that is started when the power is turned on, and the main process of the game is executed in the normal process. As an overview, the processing of steps S401 to S406 is executed as a periodic processing with a period of 4 msec, and the counter update processing of steps S408 and S409 is executed with the remaining time.

  In the normal processing, first, external signal output processing is executed in step S401. In the external signal output process of step S401, output data such as a command set in the timer interrupt process or the previous normal process is transmitted to each control device on the sub side. Specifically, the presence / absence of a prize ball command is determined, and if a prize ball command is set, it is transmitted to the payout control device 97. In addition, when various commands such as a command for change such as a change command, a type command, a change end command, a hold command, and a shift command described later are set, the command is transmitted to the notification / effect control device 82. To do.

  Next, in step S402, the variation type counter CS is updated. Specifically, the variation type counter CS is incremented by 1, and the counter value is cleared to 0 when the counter value reaches the maximum value. Then, the update value of the variation type counter CS is stored in the corresponding buffer area of the RAM 204.

  In subsequent step S403, a game time control process for controlling a game in each game time is executed. In this game times control process, jackpot determination, setting of symbol variation display by the symbol display device 41, display control of the main display unit 43, and the like are performed.

  After executing the game times control process of step S403, the process proceeds to step S404, and the game state transition process is executed. Although details will be described later, the gaming state shifts to an opening / closing execution mode, a high probability mode, a high frequency support mode, and the like by this gaming state transition processing. Details of the game turn control process in step S403 and the game state transition process in step S404 will be described later.

  In a succeeding step S405, an electric combination support process for driving and controlling the electric combination 34 provided in the operation port unit 33 is executed. In this electronic combination support process, the electronic combination release indicating whether or not to make the electric combination 34 open using the numerical information acquired from the electric combination release counter C4 stored in the electric combination holding area 233 of the RAM 204. A lottery is performed, and when the electrified open state is won, an opening / closing process of the electric accessory 34 is executed. In addition, display control of the accessory display unit 44 is performed so as to teach the lottery result of the electric character release lottery.

  As already described, the low-frequency support mode and the high-frequency support mode are set as the modes of support by the electric accessory 34, and a transition to one of the support modes is performed in the gaming state transition process. After this processing, the high frequency support mode is set when the high frequency support flag is set in the various flag storage areas 235 of the RAM 204, and the low frequency support mode is set when the flag is not set.

  In the electric power support process, it is determined whether or not the high frequency support mode is set by determining whether or not the high frequency support flag is set in the various flag storage areas 235 of the RAM 204. In the high-frequency support mode, when the electrified open state is won, the number of times that the electric accessory 34 is opened is set more than in the low-frequency support mode. Set a longer opening time. Further, in the high frequency support mode, when the electrified open state is selected and the open state of the electric accessory 34 occurs a plurality of times, the next open state is started after the completion of one open state. The closing time until is set to be shorter than one opening time.

  Incidentally, when the mode is shifted to the opening / closing execution mode, even if the high frequency support flag is set in the various flag storage areas 235 of the RAM 204, the support mode is forcibly set to the low frequency support mode.

  Thereafter, in step S406, a game ball launch control process is executed. In the game ball launch control process, the solenoid of the game ball launch mechanism 53 is excited once every predetermined period (for example, 0.6 sec) on condition that a launch permission signal is input from the power supply / launch control device 98. . Thereby, a game ball is launched toward the game area PE.

  In subsequent step S407, it is determined whether or not the execution timing of the next normal process has been reached, that is, whether or not a predetermined time (4 msec in the present embodiment) has elapsed since the start of the previous normal process. Then, the random number initial value counter CINI and the variation type counter CS are repeatedly updated within the remaining time until the next normal processing execution timing.

  That is, in step S408, the random number initial value counter CINI is updated. Specifically, the random number initial value counter CINI is incremented by 1 and cleared to 0 when the counter value reaches the maximum value. Then, the update value of the random number initial value counter CINI is stored in the corresponding area of the RAM 204. In step S409, the variation type counter CS is updated. Specifically, the variation type counter CS is incremented by 1 and cleared to 0 when those counter values reach the maximum value. Then, the update value of the variation type counter CS is stored in the corresponding area of the RAM 204.

  Here, since the execution time of each process of steps S401 to S406 changes according to the state of the game, the remaining time until the next normal process execution timing is not constant and varies. Therefore, by repeatedly updating the random number initial value counter CINI using the remaining time, the random number initial value counter CINI (that is, the initial value of the big hit random number counter C1) can be updated at random. Similarly, The variation type counter CS can also be updated at random.

(Game control process)
Next, the game times control process of step S403 will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS.

  In the game times control process, first, as shown in the flowchart of FIG. 13, it is determined in step S501 whether or not the opening / closing execution mode is in effect. When the opening / closing execution mode is in progress, the process after step S502, that is, the game turn start process at steps S503 to S505 and the game turn progress process at steps S506 to S509 are not executed. The control process ends.

  If it is not in the opening / closing execution mode, it is determined in step S502 whether or not the result display section for the operating port of the main display section 43 is in a variable display. If the result display section for the working port is not in a variable display, the process proceeds to a game turn start process in steps S503 to S505. In the game turn starting process, first, in step S503, it is determined whether or not the total number of start holding balls (common holding number CRN) is “0”. The case where the common holding number CRN is “0” means that the holding information is not stored in the holding ball storage area 232. Accordingly, the game turn control process is terminated as it is.

  On the other hand, if the common hold number CRN is not “0”, a data setting process for setting the data stored in the holding area RE of the holding ball storage area 232 for variable display in step S504, Further, in step S505, after executing the variation start process for starting the variation display on the main display unit 43 and the variation display on the symbol display device 41, the game number control process is terminated.

  Here, the data setting process in step S504 and the change start process in step S505 will be described in detail. First, the data setting process in step S504 will be described with reference to the flowchart in FIG.

(Data setting process)
In the data setting process, first, in step S601, the number of the starting reserved balls N stored in the reserved number storage area FE and the common reserved number CRN are decremented by one. In subsequent step S602, the data stored in the first area Ra1 of the reservation area RE is moved to the execution area AE.

  Thereafter, in step S603, a process of shifting data stored in the areas Ra1 to Ra8 (that is, the hold information) of the hold area RE is executed. This data shift process is a process of sequentially shifting the data stored in the first area Ra1 to the eighth area Ra8 to the lower area side, clearing the data in the first area Ra1, and the second area Ra2 → 1st area Ra1, 3rd area Ra3 → 2nd area Ra2, 4th area Ra4 → 3rd area Ra3, 5th area Ra5 → 4th area Ra4, 6th area Ra6 → 5th area Ra5, 7th area Ra7 → The data in each area is shifted such as the sixth area Ra6, the eighth area Ra8, and the seventh area Ra7.

  In the subsequent step S604, a command at the time of shifting, which is information for causing the notification / production control device 82 to recognize that the data in the reserved area has been shifted, is set. Thereafter, the data setting process is terminated. The shift command set in step S604 is transmitted to the display control device 212 via the notification / effect control device 82 in step S401 in the normal process (FIG. 12). The display control device 212 receives the shift command, and executes a process for changing the display in the reserved number display area Da for the working port in accordance with the decrease in the number of reserved items.

(Variation start processing)
Next, the variation start process in step S505 will be described with reference to the flowchart in FIG.

  In the change start process, first, in step S701, a success / failure determination process for determining whether or not the hold information referred to in the current change start process corresponds to the big win is executed. Specifically, the information acquired from the information for jackpot determination among the information stored in the execution area AE, that is, the information updated by the jackpot random number counter C1 is grasped. Then, when the winning / losing lottery mode is the low-probability mode, referring to the low-probability mode success / failure table stored in the success / failure table storage area 221 of the ROM 203, the grasped information becomes information corresponding to the jackpot winning winning. If the winning lottery mode is the high probability mode, the information obtained by referring to the winning table for the high probability mode stored in the winning table storage area 221 of the ROM 203 is a big hit. Identify whether it is included in the information corresponding to the winning.

  In the subsequent step S702, it is determined whether or not the result of the determination process in step S701 is a result corresponding to the big win. If the result corresponds to the big win, the type determination process is executed in step S703.

  In the type determination process, the information acquired from the information for type determination among the information stored in the execution area AE, that is, the information updated by the big hit type counter C2 is grasped. Further, with reference to the sorting table stored in the sorting table storage area 222 of the ROM 203, it is specified whether or not the grasped type determination information is included in the information corresponding to the probability variation jackpot result. Specifically, when the hold information corresponds to the entry to the first entry part 33d, the distribution table for the first entry part 33d is referred to, and the hold information is the second entry part 33e. If it corresponds to the entry into the ball, the type is determined with reference to the distribution table for the second entry portion 33e.

  In the subsequent step S704, it is determined whether or not the type of the current big hit winning is a probable big hit result based on the information specified in the type determining process in step S703. If it is the probability variation jackpot result, stop result setting processing for probability variation jackpot is executed in step S705, and if it is not the probability variation jackpot result, stop result setting processing for normal jackpot is executed in step S706. If it is determined in step S702 that it is not a big win, a stop result setting process for losing is executed in step S707.

  In each stop result setting process in steps S <b> 705 to S <b> 707, refer to the stop result table stored in the stop result table storage area of the ROM 203 for information on the pattern form to be finally stopped and displayed on the main display unit 43. The specified information is stored in the RAM 204. In step S705 and step S706, the MPU 202 stores information for specifying in the various flag storage areas 235 of the RAM 204 that the result of determining whether or not the game has been played this time is a probability variation jackpot result or a normal jackpot result. Specifically, the probability variation jackpot flag is stored in step S705, and the normal jackpot flag is stored in step S706.

  After executing any one of steps S705 to S707, a variable display time setting process is executed in step S708.

(Variable display time setting process)
In the variable display time setting process, as shown in the flowchart of FIG. 16, it is first determined in step S801 whether or not the winning lottery is won. Specifically, it is determined whether or not either the probable big hit flag or the normal big hit flag is stored in the various flag storage areas 235 of the RAM 204.

  If a negative determination is made in step S801, that is, if the result of the above-mentioned lottery determination is a losing result, the process proceeds to step S802. In step S802, it is determined whether or not reach display occurs in the symbol display device 41 in the current game round. Specifically, if the value of the reach random number counter C3 stored in the execution area AE is a value corresponding to the occurrence of reach, an affirmative determination is made in step S802 as occurrence of reach display. When specifying the presence / absence of reach using the value of the reach random number counter C3, the reach determination table stored in the reach determination table storage area 225 of the ROM 203 is referred to.

  If an affirmative determination is made in either step S801 or step S802, the process proceeds to step S803, where the current generation time is displayed with reference to the reach generation variation display time table stored in the variation display time table storage area 223 of the ROM 203. Fluctuation display time information corresponding to the value of the fluctuation type counter CS and the like is acquired, and in the subsequent step S804, the fluctuation display time information is provided in the fluctuation display time counter area (variation display time measuring means provided in the various counter areas 234 of the RAM 204). ). Thereafter, the setting process ends.

  In other words, in the present embodiment, the reach display is executed when the result of the lottery win is a jackpot winning result or when the result of the same lottery is a missed result and the lottery for generating the reach is won. ing.

  Here, the reach display is provided with a normal reach display and a super reach display which have different display modes. The variable display time information corresponding to each of the normal reach display and the super reach display is set in the variable display time table for reach generation. By referring to the table, the variable display time information corresponding to each reach display is set. To be acquired. Regarding the determination of the type of reach display, a table is provided in which the type of reach display corresponds to the value of the variation type counter CS. By referring to the table, the value of the current variation type counter CS is determined. The corresponding reach display is determined.

  More specifically, the reach generation variation display time table corresponds to the jackpot type. Specifically, the variable display time is set so that the combination of specific symbols can be stopped in the case of a probable jackpot result, and the combination of non-specific symbols can be stopped in the case of a normal jackpot result. In addition, the variable display time is set.

  On the other hand, if a negative determination is made in step S802, the value of the current variation type counter CS is referred to by referring to the reach non-occurrence variation display time table stored in the variation display time table storage area 223 in step S805. In step S806, the variable display time information is set in the variable display time counter area. Thereafter, the setting process ends.

  The variable display time information when no reach occurs is set so that the variable display time is shortened as the number of common hold counts CRN increases. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a configuration that does not depend on the number of the common pending number CRN may be used, and the variable display time may be set shorter as the number of the common pending number CRN is smaller. . Also, in the situation where the support mode is the high frequency support mode, the non-reach time is selected so that the shorter variable display time is selected compared to the situation where the number of pending information is the same as in the situation where the low frequency support mode. Although the generation variation display time table is set, the present invention is not limited to this, and the selected variation display time may be the same, or may be opposite to the above relationship. Furthermore, the above configuration may be applied to the variable display time at the time of reach occurrence, and the variable display time that is easily selected and the variable display time that is difficult to select are different at the time of jackpot winning and out of reach. It is good also as a structure. Also, a variation display time table for probability variation jackpot, a variation display time table for normal jackpot, a variation display time table for outreach, and a variation display time table for complete losing may be set individually.

  As described above, the variation display time of each game time is determined using parameters such as the presence / absence of reach, the type of reach display, the number of hold information, the value of the variation type counter, and the like. However, the variable display time of each game time is the content of other hold information, specifically, jackpot determination information, type determination information and reach determination information included in the other hold information as parameters. Decided without.

  Returning to the description of the change start process (FIG. 15), after the change display time setting process is executed in step S708, a change command and a type command are set in step S709. The change command includes information on presence / absence of reach and information on change display time. The type command includes game result information. That is, the type command includes, as game result information, information on probability variation jackpot results, information on normal jackpot results, information on miss results, and the like.

  The variation command and type command set in step S709 are transmitted to the notification / effect control device 82 in step S401 in the normal process (FIG. 12). The notification / production control device 82 determines the light emission pattern of the display lamp unit 63 and the sound output pattern from the speaker unit 64 in the game time based on the received variation command and type command, and the determined production of the production. The display lamp unit 63 and the speaker unit 64 are controlled so that the contents are executed. In addition, the notification / production control device 82 transmits the change command and the type command to the display control device 212 while maintaining the information form. Based on the received variation command and type command, the display control device 212 determines the variation display pattern in the symbol display device 41 in the game time, and the symbol display device is executed so that the determined variation display pattern is executed. 41 is displayed. Thereafter, in step S710, the variation display of the pattern is started on the display unit for the operation port of the main display unit 43, and then the variation start process is terminated.

  Returning to the description of the game times control process (FIG. 13), when the main display unit 43 is in a variable display, the game times progress process of steps S506 to S509 is executed. In the process for advancing game times, first, in step S506, it is determined whether or not the current game time fluctuation display time has elapsed. Specifically, it is determined whether or not the value of the variable display time information stored in the variable display time counter area of the RAM 204 is “0”. The value of the variable display time information is set in the variable display time setting process (FIG. 16) as described above. The set value of the variable display time information is decremented (subtracted) every time the timer interrupt process (FIG. 9) is started.

  If the variable display time has not elapsed, the variable display process is executed in step S507. In the variable display process, the display mode in the main display unit 43 is changed. Then, this game times control process is complete | finished.

  If the change display time has elapsed, change end processing is executed in step S508. In the change end process, the information stored in the RAM 204 in any of the processes in steps S705 to S707 is specified, and the main display unit is displayed so that the pattern corresponding to the information is stopped and displayed on the main display unit 43. 43 is controlled.

  In the subsequent step S509, a change end command is set. Then, this game times control process is complete | finished. The variation end command set in step S509 is transmitted to the notification / production control device 82 in step S401 in the normal process (FIG. 12). The notification / production control device 82 transmits the received variation end command to the display control device 212 while maintaining the information form. The display control device 212 receives the change end command and displays the final stop symbol combination in the game round in a definitive display (final stop display). It should be noted that the symbols stopped and displayed on the main display unit 43 and the symbols stopped and displayed on the symbol display device 41 are maintained as they are for a predetermined period. The period from the start of the variable display of the symbols and pictures to the end of the final display corresponds to one game time in the present embodiment.

(Game state transition process)
Next, the gaming state transition processing in step S404 will be described with reference to the flowchart in FIG.

  In the game state transition process, first, in step S901, it is determined whether or not the open / close execution mode is in effect. If it is not in the opening / closing execution mode, the process proceeds to step S902, where it is determined whether or not it is the game timing end timing (the timing at which the final display is ended on the main display unit 43). If it is not the timing when the variable display is finished, the gaming state transition process is finished as it is.

  If it is the timing when the game round has ended, it is determined in step S903 whether or not the game result of the current game round corresponds to the transition to the opening / closing execution mode. Specifically, it is determined whether or not either the normal jackpot flag or the probability variation jackpot flag is stored in the RAM 204. If none of the above flags is stored, the gaming state transition process is terminated as it is.

  If any of the above flags is stored, in step S904, the round counter area RC provided in the various counter areas 234 of the RAM 204 is set to a value determined according to the jackpot type, specifically, Set “16” or “4”. The round counter area RC is a counter area for counting the number of times that the special winning opening 32a is opened. Thereafter, the gaming state transition process is terminated.

  On the other hand, when in the opening / closing execution mode, an affirmative determination is made in step S901, and the process proceeds to step S905. In step S905, a special winning opening / closing process is executed. In the big prize opening / closing process, when the big prize opening 32a is closed, the variable prize driving unit 32c is set in the driving state on condition that the round counter area RC is “1” or more. The mouth 32a is opened. Further, when the grand prize winning opening 32a is being opened, the variable prize driving is performed on condition that a predetermined time has passed since the opening of the special winning prize opening 32a or a predetermined number of game balls have been won. The drive state of the part 32c is stopped, and the special winning opening 32a is closed.

  In a succeeding step S906, it is determined whether or not the value of the round counter area RC is “0”. If the value of the round counter area RC is not “0”, the gaming state transition process is terminated as it is. If the value of the round counter area RC is “0”, a transition process at the end of the opening / closing execution mode is executed in step S907.

  In the transition process at the end of the opening / closing execution mode, when the probability variation jackpot flag is stored in the RAM 204, the success / failure lottery mode is set to the high probability mode and the support mode is set to the high frequency support mode. Note that these high probability mode and high frequency support mode are maintained at least until the next big win is won. In addition, when the normal jackpot flag is stored in the RAM 204, the success / failure lottery mode is set to the low probability mode and the support mode is set to the high frequency support mode. However, the high-frequency support mode is terminated when the number of game times continues 100 times, and thereafter, the winning lottery mode is the low probability mode and the support mode is the low-frequency support mode.

  Then, in step S908, after executing the opening / closing execution mode end processing, the gaming state transition processing ends. In the opening / closing execution mode end processing, the stored flag is erased from the normal jackpot flag or the probability variation jackpot flag.

(Electric configurations of the production control device 82 and the display control device 212)
Next, with reference to the block diagram of FIG. 18, the electrical configuration of the notification / production control device 82 and the display control device 212 will be supplementarily described.

  An MPU 242 is mounted on the notification / production control board 241 provided in the notification / production control device 82. The MPU 242 is a ROM 243 that stores various control programs executed by the MPU 242 and fixed value data, and a memory that temporarily stores various data when the control program stored in the ROM 243 is executed. A RAM 244 and various circuits such as an interrupt circuit, a timer circuit, and a data input / output circuit are incorporated. Note that it is not essential that the ROM 243 and the RAM 244 are made into one chip with respect to the MPU 242, and each may be made into a chip individually. The same applies to MPUs of other control devices.

  The MPU 242 is provided with an input port and an output port. A main control device 81 is connected to the input side of the MPU 242, and game time control commands (game time control information) such as change commands, type commands, and change end commands already described from the main control device 81 are used. Receive. Also, a hold display control command (hold display control information) such as a shift command and a hold command, and an open / close execution mode command (open / close execution mode information) such as an opening command and an ending command are received.

  As described above, the holding lamp unit 47 provided in the variable display unit 36, the display lamp unit 63 and the speaker unit 64 provided in the front door frame 14, and the display control device 212 are connected to the output side of the MPU 242. ing. Some of the various commands input from the main control device 81 to the notification / production control device 82 are transmitted to the display control device 212 while maintaining the information form as it is.

  The display control device 212 includes a display control board 351 on which an MPU 352 that is an element in which a program ROM 353 and a work RAM 354 are combined into a chip, a video display processor (VDP) 355, a character ROM 356, and a video RAM 357 are mounted. It has. Note that it is not essential that the program ROM 353 and the work RAM 354 are made into one chip with respect to the MPU 352, but each may be made into a chip individually.

  The MPU 352 of the display control device 212 analyzes various commands received from the main control device 81 via the notification / production control device 82 or performs predetermined arithmetic processing based on the received various commands to control the VDP 355 (specifically Execute internal command generation for VDP 355). More specifically, the MPU 352 executes a process of determining a variation display pattern of each game time in the symbol display device 41 based on a command transmitted from the main control device 81 via the notification / production control device 82. At the same time, a process related to a hold notice, which will be described later, is executed, and a drawing process for the VDP 355 is executed in accordance with the processing result. As a result, various images are displayed on the display screen 41a of the symbol display device 41.

  The program ROM 353 is a memory for storing various control programs executed by the MPU 352 and fixed value data, and JPEG format image data for a background image is also stored and held.

  The work RAM 354 is a memory for temporarily storing work data, flags, and the like used when various programs are executed by the MPU 352. These work data, flags, etc. are stored in each area of the work RAM 354.

  The VDP 355 is a kind of drawing circuit that directly operates an image processing device as a liquid crystal display unit driver incorporated in the symbol display device 41. Since the VDP 355 is an IC chip, it is also referred to as a “drawing chip”, and the substance of the VDP 355 should be called a microcomputer chip with a dedicated firmware for drawing processing. The VDP 355 adjusts the timing of each of the MPU 352, the video RAM 357, etc. to intervene in reading and writing data, and reads the image data to be stored in the video RAM 357 from the character ROM 356 at a predetermined timing and displays it on the symbol display device 41.

  The character ROM 356 plays a role as an image data library for storing character data such as symbols displayed on the symbol display device 41. The character ROM 356 holds bitmap format image data of various display patterns, a color palette table to be referred to when determining the expression color of each dot of the bitmap image, and the like.

  Further, as part of the data, the character ROM 356 displays the image data (holding display image MP: see FIG. 7) to be displayed in the hold display area NE of the symbol display device 41 or the execution target display area Db. A holding image data storage area in which image data for partition frames is stored and a volume adjustment image data storage area in which image data to be displayed when volume adjustment described later is executed are provided. It is also possible to provide a plurality of character ROMs 356 and store the image data and the like in a shared manner with each character ROM 356. Further, it is also possible to adopt a configuration in which the JPEG format image data for the background image stored in the program ROM 353 is stored in the character ROM 356.

  The video RAM 357 is a memory for storing display data to be displayed on the symbol display device 41, and the display content of the symbol display device 41 is changed by rewriting the contents of the video RAM 357. The video RAM 357 is provided with a hold display area and an execution display area corresponding to the hold display area NE.

  In the holding display area, the first unit area to the eighth unit area are set so as to correspond to the first area Ra1 to the eighth area Ra8 in the working port holding area RE on a one-to-one basis. In each unit hold display area Da1 to Da8 of the hold number display area Da on the display screen 41a, the hold display image MP is displayed according to the hold display information (data) written in each unit area. In the unit hold display areas Da1 to Da8 corresponding to the unit areas for which no data is set, no image is displayed or the background image on the display screen 41a of the symbol display device 41 is displayed.

  The execution display area corresponds to the execution area AE. In the execution target display area Db on the display screen 41a, the hold display image MP is displayed according to the data written in the execution display area 282. When no data is set, a background image on the display screen 41a of the symbol display device 41 is displayed.

  As already described, in the present embodiment, the outline of the variation display mode of the symbols on the display screen 41a is specified by the notification / production control device 82 with reference to the command from the main control device 81, and based on the specification result. The details of the variable display mode are determined by the display control device 212. Specifically, the MPU 242 of the notification / production control device 82 executes a variable display control process as part of a periodic process that is activated at a predetermined cycle (for example, 2 msec), and the variable display control of the symbol is performed by the variable display control process. An outline of the aspect is specified. Here, the variable display control process will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

(Variable display control processing)
In the variable display control process, first, in step S1001, it is determined whether or not the game is being played, that is, whether or not the symbol display for one game is being executed on the symbol display device 41. If it is determined that the game is not being played, the process proceeds to step S1002, and it is determined whether or not the change command transmitted from the main controller 81 has been received.

  If a negative determination is made in step S1002, the present variation display control process is terminated as it is. On the other hand, if an affirmative determination is made in step S1002, the fluctuation display control process is terminated after the fluctuation start process is executed in step S1003.

  Returning to the description of step S1001, if an affirmative determination is made in step S1001, that is, if it is determined that the game is being played, the process proceeds to step S1004. In step S1004, it is determined whether a change end command transmitted from main controller 81 has been received. If a negative determination is made in step S1004, the fluctuation display control process is terminated after executing the changing process in step S1005. The changing process is a process of executing various effects, changing the determined effects, and the like in the game times started by the change start process.

  When an affirmative determination is made in step S1004, the process proceeds to step S1006, and after the process for ending variation is executed in step S1006, the process for controlling variation display is terminated. In the variation end processing, the symbol variation display and the effect being executed are terminated (determined and stopped) so as to correspond to the hold information related to the game times. In this process, the speaker unit 64 and the lamp unit 63 are driven and controlled to produce an effect corresponding to the fixed stop. Then, after the confirmation command is output to the display control device 212, the process for ending the change is ended. The MPU 352 of the display control device 212 controls the symbol display device 41 to confirm and stop the symbol based on the received confirmation command.

(Variation start processing)
Here, with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 20, supplementary description will be given of the variation start processing in step S1003. The variation start process is a process for starting an effect for game times based on the reception of the variation command transmitted from the main control device 81.

  In the fluctuation start process, first, the fluctuation command received this time is read out in step S1101, and information on presence / absence of reach and fluctuation display time information are specified from the command. As already described, in game times where reach display is not performed, the variable display time varies depending on the number of stored hold information. The fluctuation display time is determined by the MPU 202 of the main controller 81, and the determined information is specified based on the fluctuation command.

  In addition, when reach display is performed as the variable display mode, the outline (type, etc.) is determined in advance by the MPU 242 of the notification / production control device 82. Specifically, the outline of the variation display mode is determined when a hold command is received from the MPU 202 of the main control device 81. This result will be referred to when setting the variable display mode.

  When a variation command is transmitted from the main controller 81, a type command is also transmitted. In step S1101, the type command received together with the variation command received this time is read, and game result information such as information on probability variation jackpot results, information on normal jackpot results, or information on miss results is specified from the commands. In step S1101, from the above identified information, information on whether or not the jackpot is won, information on the type of jackpot if the jackpot is won, information on whether or not reach occurs if the jackpot is not won, and the variable display time Is stored in the register of the MPU 242.

  In subsequent step S1102, based on the information grasped in step S1101, it is determined whether or not the game result of the game time started this time is a game result corresponding to the jackpot result. If it is a jackpot result, that is, if it is a probabilistic jackpot result or a normal jackpot result, in the subsequent step S1103, a jackpot effect setting process is executed.

  In the jackpot effect setting process, the stop result of the jackpot symbol is determined (stop result determination process is performed). In the stop result determination process, in the case of the probability variation jackpot result, the stop result in which the combination of the same specific symbols (the main symbols to which odd numbers are attached) is established on one active line L1 to L5, Determined as a stop result. In the case of a normal jackpot result, a stop result in which a combination of the same non-specific symbols (main symbols with an even number) is established on one active line L1 to L5 is used as a stop result of this game. decide.

  The types of main symbols and the effective lines L1 to L5 that are stopped and displayed when the jackpot result is obtained are randomly determined by lottery or the like. In the final stop line table stored in the various table areas of the ROM 243, the effective lines L1 to L5 and address information are stored, and the final stop line determined by the above processing is the final stop line provided in the RAM 244. It is stored as address information in the line address storage area. At this time, a process for storing the determined stop result information in the stop result address storage area is executed. In the following description, the address information of the stop result determined by the various stop result determination processes is stored in the stop result address storage area of the RAM 244.

  Further, in the jackpot effect setting process, details of the variable display mode of the jackpot symbol are determined (variable display mode determination process (effect pattern determination process) is performed). As already explained, when a jackpot result is obtained, the result is notified through a reach display. In the variable display mode determination process for reach display, the details of the variable display mode are determined with reference to the outline of the variable display mode determined when the hold command is received. Further, a process for storing the address information of the determined variation display mode in the pattern address storage area of the RAM 244 is executed.

  If it is determined in step S1102 that the result is not a jackpot result, the process proceeds to step S1104. In step S1104, it is determined whether or not a reach occurs in the current game round. If a reach occurs, the process proceeds to step S1105, where an effect setting process for generating a reach is executed. In the production setting process for generating reach, the outline of the production and the combination of symbols to be finally stopped are determined. Since this process corresponds to a missed reach, a stop symbol is determined so as not to have a symbol combination corresponding to the jackpot result. That is, the stop result in which the combination of the reach and reach symbols is established on one of the effective lines L1 to L5 is determined as the current stop result. In this case, the types of combinations of outreach symbols and the effective lines L1 to L5 are randomly determined by lottery or the like. In this determination, the same symbol combination is not formed on any of the effective lines L1 to L5, and the symbol in the middle symbol row Z2 that is the same as the symbol forming the reach line is set to the reach line. The stop result on the effective line is determined so that the final stop is made at the stop position shifted before or after. Thereafter, a process of storing information on the determined stop result in the stop result address storage area is executed.

  If it is determined in step S1104 that no reach has occurred, the process proceeds to step S1106. In step S1106, the outline of the effect for normal removal and the combination of symbols to be finally stopped are determined. Since this processing corresponds to complete losing, the stop symbol is determined such that the symbol combination corresponding to the jackpot result is not formed.

  After executing any of the processes of step S1103, step S1105, and step S1106, the process proceeds to step S1107. In step S1107, a process including outputting the stop result determined in step S1103, step S1105, and step S1106 and the command including information on the effect pattern to the display control device 212 as a stop result command and a pattern command is executed. Based on the received stop result command and pattern command, the MPU 352 of the display control device 212 performs display control of the symbol display device 41 to execute a display effect in the current game round.

  After the process of step S1107 is executed, in the subsequent step S1108, a process for starting an effect for game times is executed, and then the process for starting variation is terminated. Specifically, the drive control of the speaker unit 64 and the lamp unit 63 is started based on the production mode set in Steps S1103, S1105, and S1106, and the production for the game times is started.

  Here, a supplementary description will be given of the variable display mode of symbols displayed on the symbol display device 41 (display screen 41a) based on FIG. FIG. 21A is a schematic diagram showing the types of variation display modes, and FIG. 21B is a schematic diagram showing an overview of each variation display mode.

(Variation display mode)
As shown in FIG. 21 (a), the variable display modes of symbols executed on the display screen 41a are roughly divided into four types: complete detachment, normal reach A, normal reach B, super reach A, and super reach B. About each of these variable display modes, the variable display time is set to be different, and the outline of the variable display mode for each game time is grasped based on the information related to the variable display time given to the command from the main control device 81. It is possible.

  Specifically, “3 sec to 8 sec” is set for the fluctuation display time that is completely out of place (a difference is set according to the number of holds), “10 sec” is set for the fluctuation display time for normal reach A, and the fluctuation display time for normal reach B Is about 15 seconds longer than the fluctuation display time of normal reach A, and the fluctuation display time of super reach A and super reach B is "16 sec to 18 sec" longer than the fluctuation display time of normal reach A and B. For example, when the information regarding the variable display time given to the command from the main control device 81 is “15 sec”, the notification / production control device 82 knows that the normal reach B should be executed. .

  In the game times corresponding to the jackpot result, it is easier to select Super Reach B> Super Reach A> Normal Reach B> Normal Reach A. In the game times corresponding to the missed result, complete miss> normal reach A. > Normal reach B> super reach A> super reach B. In other words, the winning expectation degree for jackpot is set higher as the variable display time becomes longer.

  Here, the fluctuation display mode of the normal reach A and B will be described with reference to FIG. When the normal reach A or B is selected, first, the variable display (scroll display) of all the symbol sequences that are stopped is started, and then the symbol variable display is terminated in the upper symbol column Z1 (stop) In addition, in the lower symbol row Z3, the symbol variation display is terminated (stopped display). In the state where the upper and lower symbol rows Z1 and Z3 are stopped and displayed in this manner, the reach symbol is displayed by stopping and displaying the main symbols having the same numbers on any of the effective lines L1 to L5 (see FIG. 6). Is formed. Then, reach display (reach change display) is performed by performing change display of the middle symbol row Z2 under the situation where the reach line is formed. After reaching the reach display, the variable display is terminated by stopping and displaying the middle symbol row Z2. Then, the fact that the symbol that is the same as the symbol that constitutes the reach display stops on the reach line is informed that the jackpot has been won, and the other symbols on the reach line stop to win the jackpot It will be notified that it is not. In this way, the combination of symbols that are finally stopped and displayed is maintained as they are for a predetermined period. In other words, the current game time continues until the stop display period elapses, and the transition to the next game time is permitted after the stop display period elapses.

  In the present embodiment, the difference in the fluctuation display time between the normal reach A and the normal reach B is ensured by setting the difference in the fluctuation display time of the middle symbol row Z2 after the reach line is formed. The method of setting the difference is arbitrary. For example, by setting a difference in the time from when the variable display is started to when the reach line is formed, the difference in the variable display time can be secured.

  Next, the variation display mode of super reach A and B will be described based on the above-described variation display mode of normal reach A and B. As shown in FIGS. 21 (b2) and 21 (b3), the super reach A and B are formed through the same process as the normal reach A and B, and the above reach line is formed. And after forming a reach line, it is the structure which performs a reach effect by displaying a predetermined character as a moving image together with the fluctuation display of the middle symbol row Z2. Specifically, after a reach line is formed in Super Reach A, a character imitating a fairy is displayed at the center of the variable display area of the middle symbol row Z2 (the center of the variable display area ME). After the reach line is formed, a character imitating a girl is displayed at the center of the variable display area of the middle symbol row Z2 (the center of the variable display area ME).

  In the pachinko machine 10 shown in the present embodiment, when the operation button 75 is operated (specifically, pressing operation) as part of various reach effects, the effect display on the display screen 41a is not performed. An operation-related effect that is different from the case where the operation-related effect is displayed is set.

  As an operation-corresponding effect, the operation button 75 moves once from the standby position toward the maximum pressed position and returns to the standby position again (that is, when the operation button 75 returns). When the operation corresponding effect is displayed when the operation button 75 is operated and the operation corresponding effect is displayed every time the operation button 75 is operated, and the operation button 75 is operated a predetermined number of times. A specific operation corresponding to the continuous operation corresponding to the operation corresponding effect when the specific single operation is executed is set.

  The single operation operation effect and the continuous operation response effect are generated with a predetermined probability in both situations where a jackpot state finally occurs and situations where no jackpot state occurs. However, these operation corresponding effects are generated on the assumption that reach display is performed, and the flow of effects including whether or not these operation corresponding effects are made is based on a hold command from the main control device 81. Thus, it is determined by the MPU 242 of the notification / production control device 82. Hereinafter, referring to the flowcharts of FIG. 23 and FIG. 24, a process related to a hold command output executed by the MPU 202 of the main controller 81, specifically, a hold information confirmation process (step S305) and the hold command setting process (step S306) will be described.

(Pending information confirmation process)
As shown in FIG. 22, in the hold information confirmation process, first, in step S1201, the start hold memory number N and the common hold number CRN stored in the hold number storage area FE of the hold ball storage area 232 are read out, and this is required. The information on the number of reservations is stored in the register of the MPU 202. Thereafter, in steps S1202 to S1206, it is confirmed whether or not the winning information is included in the hold information acquired by the current winning.

  Specifically, first, in step S1202, the information for jackpot determination among the hold information acquired in step S304 based on the current winning to the operation ports 33a and 33b, that is, the value of the acquired jackpot random number counter C1 is obtained. To grasp.

  In a succeeding step S1203, it is determined whether or not the low probability mode is set. Specifically, it is determined whether or not the current lottery mode is the low probability mode by determining whether or not the high probability mode flag is stored in the various flag storage areas 235 of the RAM 204. If it is the low probability mode, the process proceeds to step S1204, and the information for determining the big hit (the value of the big hit random number counter C1) grasped in step S1202 with reference to the low probability mode winning / failing table is information corresponding to the big win Determine if it is in the group. In the case of the high probability mode, the process proceeds to step S1205, and the jackpot determination information (value of the jackpot random number counter C1) grasped in step S302 is referred to as the jackpot winning by referring to the winning table for the high probability mode. Specify whether it is included in the set information.

  After step S1204 or step S1205, the process proceeds to step S1206, and it is determined whether or not the jackpot determination information (value of the jackpot random number counter C1) grasped in step S1202 corresponds to the jackpot winning. If it corresponds to the jackpot winning, the jackpot information is stored in the register of the MPU 202 in step S1207, and the confirmation process for the reservation notice is ended as it is.

  In the process of step S1207, the information for determining the jackpot type out of the hold information acquired in step S304 based on the current winning, that is, the value of the acquired jackpot type counter C2 is grasped, and the distribution table is referred to. The jackpot type is determined. In step S1307, the information stored in the register of the MPU 202 includes information related to the jackpot type.

  On the other hand, if a negative determination is made in step S1206, the process proceeds to step S1208. In step S1208, the information for determining the reach reach out of the hold information acquired in step S304 based on the current winnings to the operation ports 33a and 33b, that is, the value of the acquired reach random number counter C3 is grasped.

  In the subsequent step S1209, the reach determination table storage area (reach determination information group storage means) 225 of the ROM 203 is referred to and the reach determination table (reach determination information group) is grasped in step S1208. It is specified whether the information for reach determination (the value of the reach random number counter C3) is included in the information set as the reach winning.

  After executing the process of step S1209, the process proceeds to step S1210, and it is determined whether or not the reach determination information (the value of the reach random number counter C3) grasped in step S1208 corresponds to the occurrence of reach. In the case where it corresponds to the occurrence of reach, in step S1211, after the reach occurrence information is stored in the register of the MPU 202, this confirmation process is terminated. On the other hand, if it does not correspond to the occurrence of reach, this confirmation process is terminated as it is.

(Hold command setting process)
Next, the hold command setting process will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  In the hold command setting process, first, in step S1301, it is determined whether or not jackpot information is stored in the register of the MPU 202, so that the information for determining the jackpot in the immediately preceding hold information confirmation process (FIG. 22) is obtained. It is determined whether or not it has been determined that it corresponds to the big win. If jackpot information is stored, the process advances to step S1302 to set a jackpot handling pending command. Note that the setting of the command and various commands described later are performed by storing command information in a command setting area provided in the RAM 204. Note that the jackpot support pending command includes information related to the jackpot type.

  On the other hand, if a negative determination is made in step S1301, that is, if it is determined that jackpot information is not stored in the register of the MPU 202, the process proceeds to step S1303, and whether or not reach occurrence information is stored in the register of the MPU 202. It is determined whether or not the information for reach determination is identified as corresponding to the occurrence of reach in the immediately preceding hold information confirmation process (FIG. 22). If the reach occurrence information is stored, a release reach hold command is set in step S1304, and if the reach occurrence information is not stored, a complete release hold command is set in step S1305.

  When the hold command is set in steps S1302, S1304, and S1305, the change display time is determined with reference to the value of the change type counter CS and the information related to the change display time is stored in the hold command. . In determining the variable display time, the variable display time table is referred to in the same manner as the variable display time setting process shown in step S708. The hold command set in this way is transmitted to the display control device 212, and the display control device 212 can grasp the variation display mode of the symbols and the like based on the hold command. However, as described above, in the case of complete detachment, the variable display time can be changed according to the number of the hold information stored when the game times related to the hold information are started. Therefore, when setting a completely out of correspondence pending command, the variable display time remains unset.

  After executing the command setting process of any one of step S1302, step S1304, and step S1305, in step S1306, a process of setting the number of hold information for the hold command is executed. Specifically, as the processing, the hold command information set as described above is configured as information of a plurality of bytes, and information indicating that the command is a hold command or a hold command for some of the bits. Are included, and information on the number of holds can be set.

  In step S1306, the information on the number of holdings stored in the register of the MPU 202 in step S1201 in the immediately preceding holding information confirmation process (FIG. 22) is read, and thereafter the information on the number of holdings in the already set hold command is used. The read information on the number of reserved bits is stored by an arithmetic operation such as logical sum. As a result, for the hold command set in any one of steps S1302, S1304, and S1305, information for specifying the number of hold information corresponding to the hold command. Will be included. After executing the process of step S1306 described in detail above, the hold command setting process is terminated.

  The hold command including the hold number information in step S1306 is transmitted to the notification / production control device 82 by the external output process in step S401 in the next normal process (FIG. 12). The notification / production control device 82 specifies that the hold information has increased by receiving the hold command. Further, the notification / production control device 82 adds information related to the production mode to the hold command and transmits it to the display control device 212. In the display control device 212, based on the received hold command, hold display, production preparation processing, and the like are executed.

  The hold command is set by the display control device 212 according to the hold command, whether or not the jackpot is won, if the jackpot is won, the type of jackpot at that time, if the jackpot is not won, whether or not reach occurs, reach display It is arbitrary as long as it is possible to specify the outline or the like, in other words, the variation display mode of the symbol.

  Next, an effect mode determination process executed by the MPU 242 of the notification / effect control device 82 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. The effect mode determination process is a process that is executed as part of a periodic process that is repeatedly started at a predetermined cycle (for example, 2 msec cycle) by the MPU 242 of the notification / effect control device 82, and a hold command is issued from the main control device 81. When received, various processes in steps S1401 to S1411 are executed.

(Production mode determination process)
In the effect mode determination process, it is determined whether or not the hold command received from the main control device 81 in step S1401 is a big hit support hold command or a miss reach support hold command. The command received by the MPU 242 of the notification / production control device 82 is temporarily stored in the command storage area 261 of the RAM 244. The command storage area 261 is configured as a ring buffer that can store a plurality of commands individually and can be read from the previously stored commands. Even when a plurality of commands are received at the same time, Processing corresponding to each command can be executed satisfactorily. When determining whether or not a big hit correspondence pending command or a miss reach correspondence pending command has been received, whether or not a big hit correspondence pending command or a miss reach correspondence pending command is stored in the current read target area in the command storage area 261 Determine whether or not. It should be noted that the configuration of reading out such commands is the same in reading out other commands such as a change start command.

  If it is determined that the jackpot corresponding hold command or the miss reach corresponding hold command is received, the process proceeds to step S1402. In step S1402, it is determined whether or not the hold command received this time corresponds to super reach. If it corresponds to the super reach, the process proceeds to step S1403, and an operation corresponding effect determination process is executed.

  In the operation corresponding effect availability determination process, whether or not the operation corresponding effect linked to the operation of the operation button 75 (the single operation corresponding effect or the continuous operation corresponding effect) is stored in the lottery table storage area 251 of the ROM 243. The operation corresponding effect lottery table and the value of the operation corresponding effect lottery counter provided in the lottery counter area 263 are determined.

  If the lottery result corresponding to the operation-corresponding effect is obtained in this lottery, the process proceeds to step S1405, the operation-corresponding super reach setting process is executed, and the effect aspect determining process is terminated. On the other hand, if the lottery result corresponding to the operation-compatible effect is not obtained, the process proceeds to step S1406, and the non-operation super-reach setting process is executed, and then the effect mode determining process is terminated.

  In the setting process of step S1405 and step S1406, it is specified which one of super reach A and super reach B is executed as an effect mode of the game times related to the hold command received this time, and various information included in the hold command The hold information added with information for specifying the effect mode (information relating to the availability of operation and the type of super reach) is stored in the hold information storage area 267.

  Returning to the description of step S1402, if a negative determination is made in step S1402, that is, if it is determined that the command is not a super-reach compatible hold command, the process proceeds to step S1407 to execute an operation-compatible effect availability determination process.

  In the operation corresponding effect availability determination process, whether or not the operation corresponding effect linked to the operation of the operation button 75 (the single operation corresponding effect or the continuous operation corresponding effect) is stored in the lottery table storage area 251 of the ROM 243. The operation corresponding effect lottery table and the value of the operation corresponding effect lottery counter provided in the lottery counter area 263 are determined.

  If a lottery result corresponding to the operation-corresponding effect is obtained in this lottery, the process proceeds to step S1409, and after performing the operation-corresponding normal reach setting process, the effect aspect determining process is terminated. On the other hand, if the lottery result corresponding to the operation-compatible effect is not obtained, the process proceeds to step S1410, and after performing the operation non-corresponding normal reach setting process, the effect mode determining process is terminated.

  In the setting process of step S1409 and step S1410, it is specified whether normal reach A or normal reach B is executed as the game mode effect mode related to the hold command received this time, and the effect is displayed on various information included in the hold command. On-hold information to which information for specifying an aspect (information on whether or not an operation can be handled and the type of normal reach) is added is stored in the on-hold information storage area 267.

  Returning to the description of step S1401, if a negative determination is made in step S1401, that is, if the received hold command is a hold command corresponding to complete detachment, the process proceeds to step S1411 to perform setting processing for complete detachment. . Specifically, it is specified that execution of complete losing is performed as the game mode effect mode related to the hold command received this time, and information for specifying the effect mode is added to various information included in the hold command. Information is stored in the hold information storage area 267.

  Here, the hold information storage area 267 has a first area Rc1 to an eighth area Rc8, and is configured to store one hold information for each area. The hold information stored in each of the areas Rc1 to Rc8 is sequentially shifted to the lower area side when a shift command is received from the main controller 81, that is, when a game is started. Specifically, the data in the first area Rc1 is cleared and the second area Rc2 → first area Rc1, third area Rc3 → second area Rc2, fourth area Rc4 → third area Rc3. The data in each area is shifted, such as area Rc8 → seventh area Rc7. Also in the hold information storage area 267 of the notification / production control device 82, the hold information is collected in a time series regardless of the destination, similarly to the hold ball storage area 232 (specifically, the hold area RE) of the main control device 81. The configuration is memorized. Specifically, the information on the number of holds included in the command received this time is specified, and the above-mentioned various information is stored in the area corresponding to the information on the specified number of holds among the first area Rc1 to the eighth area Rc8. In the MPU 242 of the notification / production control device 82, the variation start process shown in step S1003 is performed based on the information stored in the hold information storage area 267.

  In the game times related to the operation-related effect described above, the operation-related effect process is executed as part of the variable display control process (specifically, the variable process) in the MPU 242 of the notification / effect control device 82. Although the operation corresponding effect processing is composed of a single operation corresponding effect processing and a continuous operation corresponding effect processing, a rough flow is common to these processes. Therefore, hereinafter, the continuous operation corresponding effect processing will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 25, and the description will be used for the single operation corresponding effect processing.

(Processing for continuous operation effects)
In the processing for continuous operation corresponding effect, first, in step S1501, it is determined whether or not it is during a game turn (during variable display) where a continuous operation support effect is generated. If the game is not being played, the processing for the continuous operation corresponding effect is ended as it is, and if the game is being played, the process proceeds to step S1502.

  As already described, the effect corresponding to the continuous operation is a combination of the effect corresponding to the continuous operation and the effect corresponding to the specific single operation. In step S1502, it is determined whether or not the suggestion of continuous operation has been performed. In the pachinko machine 10, when starting the continuous operation-compatible effect, a repetitive operation suggesting image (repetitive operation prompting image) that prompts the player to repeatedly operate the operation button 75 a plurality of times is displayed on the display screen of the symbol display device 41. 41a. For example, the repetitive operation suggestion image is displayed as a moving image so that the display content of the character corresponds to the suggestion, and a character such as “Press the button repeatedly!” Is displayed. The suggestion of the repetitive operation is not limited to that on the display screen 41a of the symbol display device 41. In addition to or instead of that on the display screen 41a, the suggestion of the repetitive operation is indicated by the sound output from the speaker unit 64. You may make it perform.

  If it is determined in step S1502 that the suggestion of the continuous operation has not been performed, the process proceeds to step S1503. In step S1503, it is determined whether it is the start timing for suggesting the continuous operation. Specifically, it is determined whether or not the pattern variation display mode on the display screen 41a is a predetermined timing after switching from the normal variation display to the reach display.

  If it is not the start timing for suggesting the repetitive operation, the present continuous operation-corresponding effect processing ends. If it is the start timing of suggesting the repetitive operation, in step S1504, the setting operation of the repetitive operation suggestion image is executed. As a result, on the display screen 41a of the symbol display device 41, the symbol group is reduced and displayed in the reduced display area TE, and a continuous operation suggestion image is displayed in the center of the variable display area ME. The display of the image is continued for a predetermined suggestion period.

  In a succeeding step S1505, a process for setting a continuous operation waiting state is executed. Specifically, a continuous operation waiting flag is stored in various flag storage areas 266 in the RAM 244. Thereafter, the continuous operation-compatible effect process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S1502 that the continuous operation has been suggested, the process proceeds to step S1506. In step S1506, it is determined whether or not the continuous operation waiting flag is stored in the various flag storage area 266 of the RAM 244, thereby determining whether or not the continuous operation waiting state is set.

  If it is in the continuous operation waiting state, the process proceeds to step S1507. In step S1507, it is determined whether or not the operation button 75 has been operated. Whether or not the operation button 75 is operated is monitored by the sensor monitoring process of the timer interrupt process in the MPU 242 as already described. In step S1507, if the processing result of the monitoring process is a processing result indicating that the operation button 75 has been operated (specifically, an operation flag is stored in various flag storage areas 266 in the RAM 244). ), The process advances to step S1508 to execute an operation reception image setting process. Thereby, the operation acceptance image is displayed on the display screen 41a of the symbol display device 41. As the display of the image, for example, a moving image is displayed so that the display content of the character corresponds to the occurrence of the operation.

  After executing the process of step S1508, the process proceeds to step S1509, where it is determined whether the number of repeated operations has reached the specified number of operations determined in the command determination process. Specifically, the value of the counter for continuous operation provided in the various counter areas 265 of the RAM 244 is configured to be incremented by “1” every time an affirmative determination is made in step S1507. Judgment is made by comparing the specified number of operations. Note that the value of the counter for continuous operation is initialized (cleared to 0) when the continuous operation waiting flag is deleted.

  If an affirmative determination is made in step S1509, the process advances to step S1510 to perform a process for setting a continuous operation completion image. As a result, an image prompting the end of the continuous operation is displayed on the display screen 41a of the symbol display device 41.

  After executing the process of step S1510, the process proceeds to step S1511 to perform a setting process for waiting for a specific single operation. Specifically, a specific single operation waiting flag is stored in various flag storage areas 266 in the RAM 244. That is, in the continuous operation corresponding effect, the specific single operation is allowed as the specific single operation on the condition that the continuous operation is completed.

  In a succeeding step S1512, a specific single operation suggestion image setting process is executed. By performing such processing, a specific single operation suggesting image (specific single operation prompting image) that prompts the player to operate the operation button 75 once is displayed on the display screen 41a of the symbol display device 41. For example, as the single operation suggestion image, a moving image is displayed so that the display content of the character corresponds to the suggestion, and characters such as “Press the button!” Are displayed. The suggestion of the specific single operation is not limited to that on the display screen 41a of the symbol display device 41. In addition to or on the display screen, the suggestion of the specific single operation is indicated by the sound output from the speaker unit 64. May be performed.

  The image set by the setting process of the specific single operation suggestion image is displayed at a timing after the continuous operation completion image is displayed over a predetermined period.

  If a negative determination is made in each process of step S1507 and step S1509, the process proceeds to step S1513. In step S1513, it is determined whether it is the reception end timing of the continuous operation. Specifically, with reference to the value of the counter for continuous operation reception period provided in the various counter areas 265 of the RAM 244, it is determined whether it is the reception end timing. The counter for continuous operation acceptance period is updated each time a negative determination is made in step S1513. If the value of the counter for continuous operation acceptance period becomes a predetermined value, an affirmative determination is made in step S1513, and if not, a negative determination is made.

  If a negative determination is made in step S1513, the continuous operation-corresponding effect processing is terminated as it is. On the other hand, if a positive determination is made in step S1513, the process proceeds to step S1514. In step S1514, a reception end suggestion image setting process is performed. As a result, an image indicating that the period for accepting the continuous operation has ended is displayed on the display screen 41a.

  After performing the process of step S1514 or step S1512, after performing the cancellation | release process of a continuous operation waiting state in step S1515, this continuous operation corresponding | compatible production | generation process is complete | finished. In the continuous operation waiting state canceling process, the continuous operation waiting flag stored in the various flag storage areas 266 of the RAM 244 is erased.

  Returning to the description of step S1506 again, if a negative determination is made in step S1506, that is, if it is determined not to be in a state of waiting for a repetitive operation, the process proceeds to step S1516. In step S1516, it is determined whether or not it is waiting for a specific single operation. Specifically, it is determined whether or not a specific single operation waiting flag is stored by determining whether or not a specific single operation waiting flag is stored in the various flag storage areas 266 of the RAM 244.

  If it is waiting for a specific single operation, the process advances to step S1517. In step S1517, it is determined whether the wait period has elapsed. When the process of setting the specific single operation waiting state is performed, a predetermined value is input to the wait period counter in the various counter areas 265. The value of this wait period counter is updated (subtracted by “1”) each time a negative determination is made in step S1517, and affirmative in step S1517 when the value becomes a predetermined value (eg, “0”). Determined. Thus, by setting the wait period, there is a period in which the pressing operation is invalid between the continuous operation → the specific single operation.

  If an affirmative determination is made in step S1517, that is, if it is determined that it is not in the wait period, the process proceeds to step S1518. In step S1518, it is determined whether or not a specific single operation has been performed, that is, whether or not the operation button 75 has been operated. Whether or not the operation button 75 is operated is monitored by the sensor monitoring process of the timer interrupt process in the MPU 242 as already described. In step S1518, when the processing result of the monitoring process is a processing result indicating that the operation button 75 has been operated (specifically, an operation flag is stored in various flag storage areas 266 in the RAM 244). In the case), an affirmative determination is made, and the process proceeds to step S1519. By executing the operation reception image setting process in step S1519, the operation reception image is displayed on the display screen 41a. As the display of the image, for example, a moving image is displayed so that the display content of the character corresponds to the occurrence of the operation.

  After executing the setting process of step S1519, the process proceeds to step S1520, and the specific single operation waiting state release process is executed. Specifically, the specific single operation waiting flag stored in the various flag storage areas 266 in the RAM 244 is erased.

  Thereafter, a result display image setting process is executed in step S1521. By executing the process of step S1521, the result display image is displayed on the display screen 41a. Specifically, if the current game time is a game time corresponding to super reach, a character image corresponding to super reach is displayed, and if it is a game time corresponding to normal reach, a character image corresponding to normal reach is displayed. Is done.

  After performing the process of step S1521, if a negative determination is made in steps S1516 and S1518, a negative determination is made in step S1517, the process proceeds to step S1522. In step S1522, it is determined whether it is time to end the operation-related effect. If a negative determination is made in step S1522, this continuous operation-corresponding effect processing ends.

  On the other hand, if an affirmative determination is made in step S1523, that is, if it is the end timing of the operation-corresponding effect, a display return process is executed in step S523, and the continuous operation-corresponding effect processing is ended.

  In the display return process in step S1523, a process for outputting a display return command for returning the symbol group that has been reduced and displayed in the reduced display area TE to the original display area to the display control device 212 is performed. In this way, when the reduced display is canceled, the character image displayed on the display screen 41a is continuously displayed in the game times corresponding to the super reach, and in the game times corresponding to the normal reach. The character image is not displayed.

  Here, the display content and the operation mode of the operation button 75 in the symbol display device 41 when the continuous operation-corresponding effect is executed will be described with reference to the timing chart of FIG.

  When the game time (fluctuation display time) in which the continuous operation corresponding effect is executed is started at the timing t1, the variable display of each of the symbol rows Z1 to Z3 that have been stopped and displayed until then is started. Thereafter, the upper symbol row Z1 is first stopped and displayed, and then the lower symbol row Z3 is stopped and displayed at the timing t2. At this time, the same symbol (“6” symbol and “7” symbol in FIG. 26) is stopped and displayed on the above-mentioned effective line, and reach display is started. At the timing t3 after the reach display is started, the reach symbol is reduced and displayed on the upper portion (reduced display area TE) of the display screen 41a, and a character image imitating a girl is displayed in the central portion of the display screen 41a. . After that, at the timing of t4, a message prompting repeated hitting of the operation button 75 (for example, “please hit the button!”) Is displayed on the display screen 41a, and at the same time, the state is switched to the waiting state for repeated operation.

  By repeating the pressing operation of the operation button 75 by the player, the display of the operation reception count display section 94b corresponding to the continuous operation arranged on the side of the display screen 41a is changed. Specifically, the number of operations is suggested to the player by switching the light-emitting body (LED), which has been turned off until then, to the lighting state according to the number of operations. In accordance with this, an effect is displayed on the character image imitating a girl displayed on the display screen 41a so as to surround the character, and the effect is displayed to increase as the number of operations increases.

  Here, in the present embodiment, the expectation of winning the jackpot is set to be higher as the number of operations until the operation is completed after the consecutive operation is suggested is increased. For this reason, it is assumed that the player performs the operation while expecting to perform the pressing operation as many times as possible, and the degree of attention to the pressing operation is improved.

  At the timing t6 when the number of operations by repeated pressing operations reaches a preset specified number of operations, an image indicating that the continuous operation has been completed is displayed on the display screen 41a. At the timing of t6, the pressing operation of the operation button 75 is temporarily invalidated, and thereafter, at the timing of t7, the state is switched to a state where a specific single operation is accepted. In accordance with this, an image prompting a specific single operation (one press operation) is displayed on the display screen 41a.

  When the operation button 75 is operated at the timing t8 after the image that prompts the specific single operation is displayed, an operation completion image is displayed according to the game result or the like. Specifically, when the current game time is not a super-reach game time, the display content is displayed before the operation suggestion image is displayed, and this game time is a super-reach game time. In this case, a character image corresponding to the super reach is displayed. In the latter case, the display of the character image is continued until the end of the variable display even after the reduction display is canceled. In the former case, the character image is not displayed in accordance with the cancellation of the reduction display.

  Thereafter, at the timing of tc9, the middle symbol row is stopped and displayed, and the game result is clearly indicated. Specifically, if the current game time is not a game time in which a jackpot state occurs, the combination of symbols corresponding to the losing is stopped and displayed, and if the current game time is a game time in which a jackpot state occurs The combination of symbols corresponding to the jackpot is stopped and displayed.

  As for the single operation compatible effect, a message prompting the player to operate the operation button 75 is displayed immediately after the shift to the reach display, and the super reach is performed based on the operation of the operation button 75 being performed. It has a configuration in which a branch of whether or not to develop occurs. That is, the single operation operation effect also constitutes one of the branch effects as in the case of the continuous operation effect, but the content is simplified compared to the continuous operation effect.

  In each game round, when a display effect is performed on the display screen 41a of the symbol display device 41, an effect sound is output from the speaker unit 64 in conjunction with the display effect, thereby improving the degree of attention to the game. It has been. Sound sources such as background music (BGM), lines, and sound effects are provided as sound sources of the production sound output from the speaker unit 64, and these sound sources are used alone or in combination according to the game progress (production progress). It is configured to output in the state.

  In a state in which the pachinko machine 10 is installed in an island facility such as a game hall, sounds around the pachinko machine 10 (for example, noise) can vary depending on environmental conditions such as the installation location. Even if the above-described sound production is performed, if the player cannot hear the production sound because it is mixed with noise or the like, the significance of the sound production is diminished. On the other hand, if the sound volume is excessive in a situation where ambient noise is low, the sound production can be a factor that reduces the player's willingness to play. In consideration of such circumstances, the pachinko machine 10 shown in the present embodiment is provided with a volume adjustment function capable of adjusting the volume of the speaker unit 64 based on an operation by the player. Hereinafter, a configuration related to the volume adjustment will be described.

  The speaker unit 64 is electrically connected to the notification / production control device 82 (specifically, the notification / production control board 241), and outputs sound based on a signal from the notification / production control device 82. Is configured. The ROM 243 of the notification / production control device 82 is provided with a sound source storage area 253 for storing the various sound sources described above. As the game progresses, various sound sources stored in the sound source storage area are referred to, and an output signal to the speaker unit 64 is generated. Thus, when generating an output signal, the volume set at that time is referred to. In the present embodiment, the sound volume is divided into a plurality of stages, specifically five stages “1” to “5”, and the speaker unit 64 in the order of “1” <“2” <. The volume output from is increased. If the volume is not adjusted, that is, if the volume is not specified by the player, the median “3” is set. That is, the volume “3” is the initial setting volume (default).

  In the MPU 242 of the notification / production control device 82, a volume changing process for changing the volume based on the operation of the operation button 75 is executed. The volume changing process is a process that is executed as part of the regular process, and the first volume changing process that is executed during standby (non-game) and the second volume that is executed during game (while the game is in progress). It is roughly divided into change processing. Hereinafter, the sound volume changing process will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS.

(First volume change processing)
As shown in FIG. 27, in the first volume changing process, first, in step S1601, it is determined whether or not a game is in progress (game progress). Specifically, whether or not the symbol variation display or confirmation display is being performed, and if it is the end timing of the confirmation display, whether or not the subsequent hold information exists, or is in the open / close execution mode Whether or not a game is in progress is determined based on whether or not the game is in progress. It should be noted that in the present embodiment, there is no subsequent progress information when the game is not progressing, that is, when the change display and final display of the symbols are not performed, and when the final display ends. A situation that is not in the open / close execution mode is referred to as “standby” or “standby state”.

  If a negative determination is made in step S1601, the process proceeds to step S1602. In step S1602, it is determined whether the first volume change operation is being accepted, that is, whether or not the volume adjustment mode is set. Specifically, this determination is made based on whether or not the volume control mode first transition flag is stored in the various flag storage areas 266 of the RAM 244.

  If a negative determination is made in step S1602, the process proceeds to step S1603. In step S1603, it is determined whether or not the operation button 75 has been operated. If a negative determination is made in step S1603, the first sound volume changing process is terminated as it is.

  If an affirmative determination is made in step S1603, the process advances to step S1604 to execute reception start processing for the first volume change operation. Specifically, the volume adjustment mode first transition flag is stored in various flag storage areas 266 of the RAM 244. Thereby, it shifts to the volume control mode in which the volume can be adjusted. At the same time, a volume change acceptance period is set. In the present embodiment, the volume adjustment mode ends when this acceptance period elapses, and after the volume adjustment mode ends, the game proceeds with the volume at the end of the volume adjustment mode.

  After executing the process of step S1604, the display process of the volume changing image is executed in the subsequent step S1605, and then the first volume changing process is terminated. Through the display processing of the volume change image, an image indicating that the volume adjustment mode is set is displayed. Specifically, as shown in the schematic diagram of FIG. 29 (a), the variable display area ME of the display screen 41a indicates that the volume can be adjusted, an image showing the current volume, and that the volume is being adjusted. As the message indicating “volume adjustment in progress” is displayed.

  Returning to the description of step S1602, when an affirmative determination is made in step S1602, that is, when the volume adjustment mode is set, the process proceeds to step S1606. In step S1606, it is determined whether the acceptance period of the first volume change operation has elapsed. If a negative determination is made in step S1606, that is, if it is determined that the reception period is still in progress, the process proceeds to step S1607.

  In step S1607, it is determined whether or not the operation button 75 has been operated. If a negative determination is made in step S1607, the first sound volume changing process is terminated as it is. If an affirmative determination is made in step S1607, the process advances to step S1608 to execute a volume change process. In the volume change process, a process of changing the volume by one step from the current volume is performed. In the present embodiment, the volume increases by one step each time the operation button 75 is operated, and returns to the lower limit “1” after reaching the upper limit “5”. For example, when the current volume is “3”, the volume is changed to “4”, and when the current volume is “5”, the volume is changed to “1”.

  In subsequent step S1609, a process of outputting a sample sound at a volume corresponding to the change result in step S1607 is performed. In step S1610, an image update process for changing the volume is executed to notify that the volume has been changed based on the operation. As a result, the volume display is changed (see FIG. 29 (a1) → FIG. 29 (a2)).

  Returning to the description of step S1606, if an affirmative determination is made in step S1606, that is, if it is the end timing of the acceptance period, the process proceeds to step S1612. In step S1612, a reception end process for the first volume changing operation is executed. Specifically, the volume adjustment mode first transition flag stored in the various flag storage areas 266 of the RAM 244 is deleted. As a result, the volume control mode ends. Thereafter, in step S1613, the sound volume changing image is hidden and the first sound volume changing process is terminated.

  Note that, when the game turn is started during the volume adjustment mode, the volume adjustment mode is ended based on the start of the game turn. Also in this case, the processing of step S1612 and step S1613 is executed.

  As described in detail above, according to the configuration in which the volume can be adjusted in a situation where the game is not being performed, for example, before the game is started (in advance), the player can respond to his / her preference etc. It is permissible to adjust the volume. However, if waiting is an essential condition for volume adjustment, various inconveniences such as a decrease in convenience for the player and a decrease in the operating rate of the gaming machine may occur. In this regard, in the present embodiment, the occurrence of such inconvenience is suppressed by allowing the volume adjustment during the game by the second volume changing process. Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 28, the second sound volume changing process executed during the game will be described.

(Second volume change processing)
In the second volume changing process, first, in step S1701, it is determined whether the second volume changing operation is being accepted, that is, whether or not the volume adjusting mode is set. Specifically, it is determined whether or not the volume control mode second transition flag is stored in the various flag storage areas 266 of the RAM 244.

  If a negative determination is made in step S1701, the process proceeds to step S1702 to determine whether or not a game is in progress (game in progress). If a negative determination is made in step S1702, the second sound volume changing process is terminated as it is. If a positive determination is made in step S1702, the process proceeds to step S1703. In step S1703, it is determined whether volume change is restricted.

  In the present embodiment, the operation buttons 75 are provided with functions as means for producing and means for adjusting the volume. In order to allow these two functions to coexist, even under game play, the volume is restricted so that the volume cannot be changed (adjusted) under some circumstances. Details of the configuration related to the regulation will be described later.

  If an affirmative determination is made in step S1703, the second sound volume changing process is terminated as it is. If a negative determination is made in step S1703, the process proceeds to step S1704. In step S1704, it is determined whether or not the operation button 75 has been operated. If a negative determination is made in step S1704, the second sound volume changing process is terminated as it is.

  If a positive determination is made in step S1704, the process proceeds to step S1705. In step S1705, second sound volume change operation acceptance start processing is executed. Specifically, the volume adjustment mode second transition flag is stored in various flag storage areas 266 of the RAM 244. Thereby, it shifts to the volume control mode in which the volume can be adjusted. At the same time, a volume change acceptance period is set. In the present embodiment, the volume adjustment mode ends when this acceptance period has elapsed, and the volume at the end is maintained.

  The present embodiment is configured to shift to the volume adjustment mode based on the pressing operation of the operation button 75 being performed. However, the operation that triggers the transition to the volume control mode is not limited to the above. When considering the point of avoiding the player's erroneous operation, the volume adjustment mode should be entered based on the operation in a mode different from the operation mode related to the single operation compatible effect and the continuous operation compatible effect described above. Is also possible. For example, when the operation button 75 is maintained in a pressed state for a predetermined period (when the operation button 75 is pressed for a long time), the sound volume adjustment mode may be entered.

  After executing the process of step S1705, the display process of the volume changing image is executed in the subsequent step S1706, and then the second volume changing process is terminated. As a result of the display processing of the volume changing image, an image indicating that the volume adjustment mode is set is displayed on the display screen 41a. The specific display mode is the same as in the case of the first sound volume changing process, and the description will be used (see FIG. 29A).

  Returning to the description of step S1701, if an affirmative determination is made in step S1701, that is, if the volume adjustment mode is set, the process proceeds to step S1707. In step S1707, it is determined whether the acceptance period of the second volume changing operation has elapsed. If a negative determination is made in step S1707, that is, if it is determined that the reception period is still in progress, the process proceeds to step S1708. In step S1708, it is determined whether or not the operation button 75 has been operated. If a negative determination is made in step S1708, the second sound volume changing process is terminated as it is.

  If an affirmative determination is made in step S1708, the process advances to step S1709 to execute a volume change process. In the volume change process, a process of changing the volume by one step from the current volume is performed. During the game, at least an effect sound such as BGM is output from the speaker unit 64, and the volume of the effect sound is changed in accordance with the volume change process.

  In a succeeding step S1710, an image update process for changing the volume is executed to notify that the volume has been changed based on the operation. Since the sound volume changing process and the image updating process are the same as the first sound volume changing process, the description will be cited.

  If an affirmative determination is made in step S1707, that is, if it is the end timing of the acceptance period, the process proceeds to step S1711. In step S1711, a second sound volume change operation acceptance end process is executed. Specifically, the volume adjustment mode second transition flag stored in the various flag storage areas 266 of the RAM 244 is deleted. As a result, the volume control mode ends. Thereafter, in step S1712, the sound volume changing image is hidden and the second sound volume changing process is terminated.

  As described above, the operation button 75 in this embodiment is provided with functions as a means for producing and a means for adjusting the volume, and in order to allow these two functions to coexist, even during game play. In some circumstances, the volume is restricted so that the volume cannot be changed (adjusted). Here, with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 29B, a process related to the restriction (volume change permission / inhibition setting process) will be described. The volume change enable / disable setting process is a process executed as part of the regular process in the MPU 242 of the notification / production control device 82.

(Volume change enable / disable setting process)
In the volume change enable / disable setting process, first, in step S1801, it is determined whether or not a game is being played (game is being played). If a negative determination is made in step S1801, that is, if it is determined that the game is not in progress, the present setting process is terminated as it is.

  If an affirmative determination is made in step S1801, the process proceeds to step S1802 to determine whether or not volume change is being regulated. Specifically, it is determined whether or not a volume change restriction flag is stored in various flag storage areas 266 of the RAM 244. If a negative determination is made in step S1802, the process proceeds to step S1803.

  In step S1803, it is determined whether there is a grace period for performing the second sound volume changing operation. As already described, in the present embodiment, it is defined that the period (execution period) maintained in the sound volume adjustment mode is fixed when the sound volume adjustment mode is entered during the game. Further, whether or not the operation-compatible effect is permitted is specified in advance based on the hold command (hold information), and the timing for shifting to the operation-compatible effect is determined when the hold command is received. Yes. In other words, it is possible to grasp whether or not the execution period can be ensured by avoiding interference between the volume adjustment mode and the operation corresponding effect prior to the operation corresponding effect. In step S1803, the presence / absence of a grace period is determined based on the various information.

  Here, with reference to FIG. 30, a supplementary description will be given of the volume adjustment regulation mode. FIG. 30 is a timing chart showing the flow of the game. FIG. 30 (a) illustrates the case of transitioning to the operation corresponding effect (special display) at a relatively late timing from the start of the game times related to the operation corresponding effect. FIG. 30 (b) illustrates the operation corresponding effect. The case where it shifts to the operation corresponding effect (special display) at a relatively early timing from the start of the game times is illustrated.

  In the game flow shown in FIG. 30A, the symbol variation display (game times) is started at the timing ta1, and the operation button 75 is operated at the timing ta2 immediately after the symbol variation display is started. Yes. Although this game time corresponds to the operation corresponding effect, at the timing of ta2, a period for completing the volume adjustment mode is ensured before the operation corresponding effect is started. For this reason, the transition to the volume control mode based on the operation performed at the timing of ta2 is allowed.

  Thereafter, when the operation button 75 is operated at the timing ta4 and the timing ta6, the volume is increased based on each operation (“3” → “4” → “5”). Then, the volume adjustment mode ends at the timing ta7 when the execution period has elapsed from the timing ta2. As a result, the volume is maintained at “5” thereafter.

  The operation corresponding effect is started at the timing of ta8 after the volume adjustment mode ends. The start timing of the operation corresponding effect is predetermined. The period from the start of the game time to the operation corresponding effect is set to be longer than the execution period, and this difference is a grace period for transition to the volume adjustment mode in the game time (the timing of ta1). Refer to the timing of ta3). On the other hand, after the timing ta3 has passed without transitioning to the volume adjustment mode based on the operation button 75, the transition to the volume adjustment mode is restricted until at least the timing ta9 at which the operation corresponding effect ends. Will be.

  In the game flow shown in FIG. 30 (b), the period from the start of the game time to the operation-related effect is shorter than the execution period, and the execution period of the volume adjustment mode is ensured during one game time. Can not do it. In such a case, the restriction occurs during the game times that are executed before the game times related to the operation corresponding effects. In order to avoid this restriction and shift to the volume control mode, it is necessary to operate the operation button 75 in the game times before the game times related to the operation corresponding effects.

  As already described, the game times corresponding to complete losing that do not become reach display may vary depending on the number of pending information stored in the game times. However, the number of hold information that can be stored has an upper limit and a lower limit value of the variable display time. Therefore, when determining the presence or absence of the above-mentioned grace period, the game display time corresponding to complete losing before the operation corresponding effect is determined by regarding the variable display time as the lower limit value.

  Returning to the description of FIG. 29 (b) again, if an affirmative determination is made in step S1803, that is, if it is determined that there is no grace period, the flow proceeds to step S1804, and after executing the volume change restriction process, this volume change permission / inhibition setting process Exit. In the volume change restriction process, the volume change restriction flag is stored in various flag storage areas 266 of the RAM 244.

  If an affirmative determination is made in step S1802, that is, if it is determined that volume change is being regulated, the process proceeds to step S1805. In step S1805, it is determined whether there is a grace period for the second sound volume changing operation. Since this determination is the same as that in step S1803, the description is incorporated.

  If a negative determination is made in step S1805, the volume change permission / inhibition setting process is terminated. On the other hand, if a positive determination is made in step S1805, the process proceeds to step S1806. In step S1806, volume change restriction release processing is executed. Specifically, the volume change restriction flag stored in the various flag storage areas 266 of the RAM 244 is deleted. Thereby, the transition to the volume adjustment mode is allowed.

  According to the first embodiment described in detail above, the following excellent effects can be expected.

  By making it possible to adjust the volume of the speaker unit 64 while the game is in progress, it is not necessary to interrupt the game for adjusting the volume, for example, or to refrain from starting the game until the volume adjustment is completed. Thereby, it can suppress that provision of a volume control function becomes a factor which reduces the operating rate of a game machine. Further, for example, when it is difficult to hear the music in a situation where a production sound such as a desired music (BGM) is output from the speaker unit 64, the volume can be quickly adjusted (for example, the progress of the game) It is possible to respond immediately to the player's needs (by not having to wait for the volume adjustment until it stops). As a result, it is possible to suitably avoid the occurrence of inconvenience such that the volume adjustment function is not utilized well. Improving responsiveness in this way is also effective in improving convenience when using the volume control function.

  When the volume is adjusted, a sample sound for volume adjustment is output based on the operation, so that the player can feel how much the volume has changed. However, if the sample sound for volume adjustment is far from the audible sound (effect sound) output as the game progresses, there may be a difference in how it is heard. For this reason, even if the player adjusts the sound volume according to his / her preference, the actual performance sound output as the game progresses may be heard louder or smaller, for example. This is not preferable because once the volume is adjusted, the volume needs to be adjusted again. In this respect, occurrence of such inconvenience can be suitably avoided by changing the sound that is heard during the game.

  By using the operation button 75 as the operation means used in the operation-corresponding effect for the operation for adjusting the volume, it is possible to suitably suppress the complexity of the gaming machine structure due to the provision of the volume adjustment function. However, according to the configuration in which the operation button 75 for performance is used for volume adjustment, the volume changes as a result of performing the operation in accordance with the performance, or the operation corresponding performance is performed as a result of performing the operation for adjusting the volume. If this is done, a result in accordance with the player's intention cannot be obtained, and the presence of the operation means may be impaired. In this regard, as shown in the present embodiment, the operation corresponding effect is avoided during the volume adjustment, and the volume adjustment is avoided during the operation corresponding effect. These two functions can coexist suitably.

  By adopting a configuration that determines whether or not an operation-related effect is possible based on whether or not the volume adjustment mode is set, it is possible to avoid an interruption of an operation-related effect during the volume adjustment. By preparing an environment where the volume adjustment can be performed calmly in this manner, the player can preferably enjoy the benefits of the volume adjustment function during the game. This is a preferable configuration for avoiding mutual interference and causing the production function and the volume control function to coexist.

  Specifically, when the period for executing the volume adjustment mode can be secured before the operation-related effect is started, the transition to the volume adjustment mode is allowed, and when the period cannot be secured, the volume adjustment mode is entered. Transition is regulated. Here, by adopting a configuration in which the execution period of the volume adjustment mode can be ensured over a plurality of game times based on the previously specified result, the condition for shifting to the volume adjustment mode is relaxed, and the volume adjustment during the game is reduced. This can contribute to improved convenience.

  Further, there is a concern that the player will be confused if the second half of the operation corresponding effect is suddenly displayed using the remaining time such as immediately after the volume adjustment is completed. In this respect, the occurrence of such inconveniences can be suitably suppressed by restricting the return to the operation-compatible effect after the volume adjustment is completed as shown in the present embodiment. If it becomes possible to grasp that the operation-related effect is regulated by the operation related to the volume control, the player's own operation becomes a factor in the regulation of the operation-related effect for the player who is playing the game expecting the operation-related effect. This can be a factor that reduces the willingness to play and hinders the use of volume control. The configuration described in this embodiment is advantageous in suppressing the occurrence of such inconvenience.

  In addition, since the interruption of the volume adjustment during the operation corresponding effect is avoided, for example, when the operation is performed in the flow of the operation corresponding effect, the operation may trigger the volume adjustment contrary to the player's intention. Can be suppressed.

  As described above, the fact that the operation-corresponding effect is regulated due to the volume adjustment in spite of the situation in which the operation-corresponding effect is originally performed can be a factor of reducing the effect function of the gaming machine. Therefore, when the volume adjustment is performed, instead of the operation-compatible effect, a configuration in which a normal effect (operation-incompatible effect) is performed can suitably suppress the deterioration of the effect function as described above.

  In particular, it is possible to indirectly expose that the operation-corresponding effect has been canceled by executing the normal effect, by making the effect that can be set as the game progresses as the normal effect, regardless of the operation-corresponding effect. Can be avoided.

<Second Embodiment>
In the first embodiment, the volume adjustment during the game is allowed within a range that does not affect the operation-corresponding effect. However, in the present embodiment, there is a device for further reducing the restrictions relating to the volume adjustment. One of the features is that it is made. Specifically, when the configuration related to the restriction on the transition to the volume adjustment mode described in the first embodiment is not adopted, and the operation-related effect start timing is reached during the volume adjustment mode. One of the features is that the production mode relating to the game times is rewritten so as to be an operation-incompatible production.

  Hereinafter, the process of rewriting the effect mode (effect mode rewriting process) will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. The effect mode rewriting process constitutes a part of the changing process (see FIG. 19) of the changing display control process executed by the MPU 242 of the notification / effect control device 82. Note that, once the operation corresponding effect is started, the transition to the volume adjustment mode during the operation corresponding effect is restricted, similar to the first embodiment.

(Production mode rewriting process)
In the effect mode rewriting process, it is first determined in step S1901 whether or not the current game time is a game time related to an operation-compatible effect. If a negative determination is made in step S1901, the effect rewriting process is terminated as it is. On the other hand, if a positive determination is made in step S1901, the process proceeds to step S1902.

  In step S1902, it is determined whether it is a production mode rewriting determination timing. Specifically, it is determined whether or not it is a transition timing to an operation corresponding effect (special display). If a negative determination is made in step S1902, the effect mode rewriting process is terminated as it is. If an affirmative determination is made in step S1902, processing proceeds to step S1903.

  In step S1903, it is determined whether the volume control mode is set. Specifically, it is determined whether or not the volume control mode second transition flag is stored in the various flag storage areas 266 of the RAM 244. If a negative determination is made in step S1903, the effect rewriting process is terminated as it is. If a positive determination is made in step S1903, the process proceeds to step S1904.

  If it is determined that the volume adjustment mode continues in spite of the timing of the transition to the operation-related effect at the game times related to the operation-related effect, in step S1904, the effect mode at the game time is operated. A process of rewriting from production to operation-incompatible production is performed. Specifically, when the game time is a game time related to operation-related super reach, the game time is changed to be a game time related to non-operation-compatible super reach (see the schematic diagram in FIG. 32). In the case of the game times related to normal reach, the game times are changed to the game times related to non-operational normal reach (see the schematic diagram in FIG. 33).

  According to the configuration shown in the present embodiment, it is possible to increase the opportunities for volume adjustment during a game while suppressing restrictions on volume adjustment. Thereby, it can contribute to the improvement of the further convenience of a volume control function.

  When the branch point (development timing) to the operation-compatible effect is reached during the volume adjustment mode, rewriting to the operation non-operation effect is performed, and interference between the volume adjustment mode and the operation-compatible effect is avoided. When the transition to the volume adjustment mode is restricted when the operation-corresponding effect is refrained, it is revealed that the transition to the operation-corresponding effect is performed later by such restriction. This can be a hindrance in improving the degree of attention to the game effect through the operation-related effect. In this regard, in the configuration shown in the present embodiment, it is possible to prevent the player from identifying in advance whether or not an operation-compatible effect is performed based on the transition to the volume adjustment mode. Thereby, generation | occurrence | production of the problem mentioned above can be suppressed suitably.

  When the operation of the operation button 75 causes the operation-related effect to be canceled, the fact can be grasped, so that it is harsh for the player who is playing the game in anticipation of the operation-related effect. For such a player, canceling the operation-corresponding effect due to the adjustment can be a factor that reduces the game motivation. In this respect, in the present embodiment, since the existing effect is used as the effect after rewriting, not the rewriting-only effect, it is possible to identify the effect corresponding to the operation later from the effect mode. It has become difficult. Therefore, it can suppress suitably that provision of a volume control function becomes a factor which reduces game motivation.

<Third Embodiment>
In the first embodiment, the volume is set to the default volume when a preset release condition (predetermined period has elapsed in the standby state) is satisfied, regardless of how the volume is changed. The configuration is set back to (default). That is, the release condition when the volume adjustment is performed during standby (non-game) and the release condition when the volume adjustment is performed during the game are common. In the present embodiment, the configuration is different from that of the first embodiment in that release conditions are individually set according to the volume adjustment process. In the following, with reference to FIG. 34, a configuration relating to volume adjustment in the present embodiment will be described focusing on differences from the first embodiment. FIG. 34 is a flowchart showing the volume change canceling process.

  In the MPU 242 of the notification / production control device 82, the volume change canceling process is executed as part of the regular process. In this volume change release process, the volume is changed through the first volume change release process and the second volume change process which are executed on the assumption that the volume has been changed through the first volume change process. And a second volume change canceling process that is executed on the assumption that the

(First volume change release processing)
As shown in FIG. 34 (a), in the first volume change cancellation process, it is first determined in step S2001 whether or not a volume change based on the first volume change operation has occurred. That is, it is determined whether or not the volume of the speaker unit 64 has been changed to a volume other than “3”, which is the initial setting volume, by changing the volume during standby.

  If a negative determination is made in step S2001, the first volume change cancel processing is terminated as it is. If an affirmative determination is made in step S2001, the process proceeds to step S2002. In step S2002, it is determined whether or not a preset standby period (1800 sec in the present embodiment) has passed without performing variable display. That is, it is determined whether or not 30 minutes have elapsed since the confirmation display has ended.

  If a negative determination is made in step S2002, that is, if the sound volume has been changed but is still in the standby period, the first sound volume change canceling process is terminated. On the other hand, if a positive determination is made in step S2002, the process proceeds to step S2003. In step S2003, a process of canceling the volume change based on the first volume change operation and returning to the initial set volume is performed.

(Second volume change release processing)
As shown in FIG. 34B, in the second volume change canceling process, it is first determined in step S2101 whether or not a volume change based on the second volume change operation has occurred. That is, it is determined whether or not the volume of the speaker unit 64 is changed to a volume other than “3” which is the initial setting volume by changing the volume during the game.

  If a negative determination is made in step S2101, the second volume change cancel processing is terminated as it is. If an affirmative determination is made in step S2101, the operation proceeds to step S2102. In step S2102, it is determined whether a condition for canceling volume change based on the second volume change operation is satisfied.

  If a negative determination is made in step S2102, that is, if the volume has been changed but the release condition has not yet been established, the second volume change release processing is terminated. On the other hand, if a positive determination is made in step S2102, the process proceeds to step S2103. In step S2103, a process of canceling the volume change based on the second volume change operation and returning to the volume before the second volume change operation is performed is performed.

  Here, with reference to the schematic diagram of FIG. 35A, the cancellation condition in the second volume change cancellation processing will be described. The release condition is determined according to the situation where the volume operation is performed.

  The MPU 242 of the notification / production control device 82 has a built-in RTC (real time clock). The RTC is configured to be able to measure the date and time, and the MPU 242 can grasp the date and time at that time by acquiring information from the RTC. When the predetermined date and time stored in the ROM 243 is reached, the effect mode is shifted to a special effect mode in which the background image, BGM, etc. are different from the normal effect mode for a limited time. In the game times executed during the special effect mode, a special reach effect corresponding to the special effect mode is executed instead of the above-described normal reach and super reach. This special effect mode is executed over a predetermined period, and when the predetermined period has elapsed, the effect mode returns to the normal effect mode.

  When the second volume changing operation is performed during the special effect mode, the volume of the speaker unit 64 is maintained at the volume changed based on the second volume changing operation until the special effect mode is ended. It has become. That is, the end of the special effect mode is set as a condition for canceling the volume change based on the second volume change operation.

  Further, as described above, when a big hit result is obtained based on the balls entering the operation ports 33a and 33b, the mode shifts to an opening / closing execution mode in which the variable winning device 32 is opened and closed. During the opening / closing execution mode, a moving image corresponding to the opening / closing execution mode is displayed on the display screen 41a, and BGM or the like corresponding to the opening / closing execution mode is output from the speaker unit 64.

  When the second volume changing operation is performed during the opening / closing execution mode, the volume of the speaker unit 64 is maintained at the volume changed based on the second volume changing operation until the opening / closing execution mode ends. It has become. That is, the end of the opening / closing execution mode is set as a volume change cancellation condition based on the second volume change operation.

  When the second volume changing operation is performed under a situation other than the special performance mode and the opening / closing execution mode, the second volume changing operation is performed until the game round in which the second volume changing operation is performed is completed. The volume is maintained at the changed volume. That is, the end of the corresponding game round is set as a volume change cancellation condition based on the second volume change operation.

  Next, with reference to the timing chart of FIG. 35B, an example of the flow of changing the volume accompanying the progress of the game will be described. Note that FIG. 35B illustrates a case where the end of the opening / closing execution mode is set as the release condition.

  When the first sound volume changing operation is performed in a situation where the pachinko machine 10 is on standby, the sound volume of the speaker unit 64 is changed from “3” (initial setting sound volume) to “4” (at tc1). Timing reference). Thereafter, the game is started at the timing of tc2, and when the jackpot is won, the mode is shifted to the opening / closing execution mode at the timing of tc3.

  The volume is changed from “4” to “5” by performing the second volume change operation in the situation where the opening / closing execution mode is set (see the timing of tc4). The volume changed based on the second volume changing operation is maintained until the opening / closing execution mode ends. When the opening / closing execution mode ends at the timing of tc5, the sound volume change based on the second sound volume changing operation is released at the same time. Thereby, the volume of the speaker unit 64 returns to the volume before the second volume change operation is performed (“5” → “4”).

  Thereafter, when the player finishes the game at the timing of tc6, the pachinko machine 10 enters a standby state. The volume change based on the first volume change operation is released at a timing of tc7 when a predetermined standby period (1800 sec) has elapsed from the timing of tc6 that has entered the standby state. As a result, the volume of the speaker unit 64 returns to the volume before the first volume change operation, that is, the initial set volume (“4” → “3”).

  According to the third embodiment described in detail above, the following excellent effects are produced.

  Even if the speaker unit 64 is provided as the sound output unit, the function as the sound output unit cannot be performed well if the production sound from the speaker unit 64 is not heard due to surrounding noise. On the other hand, if the sound from the speaker unit 64 becomes excessive, the pachinko machine 10 becomes a source of noise and gives discomfort to other players. For example, if the sound from the surrounding gaming machine becomes difficult to hear the sound from the own gaming machine about the ear, measures such as raising the volume of the own gaming machine can be taken, and as a result, the noise level of the entire gaming hall can be increased. . This may be a factor that deteriorates the game environment in the game hall.

  In the first place, the situation where the player wants to pay attention to the sound is not always common. In the present embodiment, the volume can be changed in accordance with the individual needs of the player by temporarily adjusting the volume according to the game situation. Thereby, it can suppress that an effect sound becomes excessive constantly.

  In addition, if the situation in the hall in the game hall or the surrounding game machine is anxious, it is possible to make it easier to hear the desired sound by temporarily lowering the volume of the pachinko machine 10 itself.

  The temporary volume adjustment as described above is configured to determine the release timing on the pachinko machine 10 side based on the situation where the volume adjustment is performed. For this reason, the player does not need to re-operate when the volume is returned. This contributes to improving the convenience of the volume control function.

  When the temporary volume change based on the second volume change operation ends, the volume does not return to the initial set volume, but returns to the volume before the volume change is performed. By making the first sound volume changing operation again unnecessary, smooth game progress is realized.

  By providing the temporary volume control function and the constant volume control function that is continued over a plurality of different situations, the sound effect function can be suitably exhibited. In addition, by allowing the temporary increase in sound, it is possible to prevent the base volume (the volume set based on the first volume change operation) and the initial set volume from being increased unnecessarily. Thereby, it can contribute to the improvement of the game environment in a game hall etc.

<Fourth embodiment>
In the third embodiment, the volume adjustment by the second volume change operation is effective only in the situation where the volume adjustment is performed. In other words, the second volume changing operation is required again to adjust the volume when the same situation occurs again as the game progresses. On the other hand, in the present embodiment, a configuration in which the volume adjustment is performed on the gaming machine side when a situation similar to the situation in which the volume adjustment operation is performed after the player performs the volume adjustment operation. This is different in configuration from the third embodiment in that it has a repeat function. Hereinafter, the second sound volume changing process executed by the MPU 242 of the notification / production control device 82 will be described with reference to FIG.

(Second volume change processing)
In the second sound volume changing process, first, in step S2201, it is determined whether or not the second sound volume changing operation is being accepted, that is, the sound volume adjustment mode is set. If a negative determination is made in step S2201, the process proceeds to step S2202, and it is determined whether or not a game is in progress (game in progress). If a negative determination is made in step S2202, the second sound volume changing process is terminated as it is. If a positive determination is made in step S2202, the process proceeds to step S2203. In step S2203, it is determined whether volume change is restricted.

  If the determination in step S2203 is affirmative, the second sound volume changing process is terminated as it is. If a negative determination is made in step S2203, the process proceeds to step S2204. In step S2204, it is determined whether or not the operation button 75 has been operated. If a negative determination is made in step S2204, the second sound volume changing process is terminated as it is.

  If a positive determination is made in step S2204, the process proceeds to step S2205. In step S2205, second sound volume change operation acceptance start processing is executed. Specifically, the volume adjustment mode second transition flag is stored in various flag storage areas 266 of the RAM 244. Thereby, it shifts to the volume control mode in which the volume can be adjusted. After executing the process of step S2205, the display process of the volume changing image is executed in the following step S2206, and then the second volume changing process is terminated. Through the display processing of the volume change image, an image indicating that the volume adjustment mode is set is displayed.

  Returning to the description of step S2201, if an affirmative determination is made in step S2201, that is, if the volume adjustment mode is set, the process proceeds to step S2207. In step S2207, it is determined whether the acceptance period of the second volume changing operation has elapsed. If a negative determination is made in step S2207, the process proceeds to step S2208. In step S2208, it is determined whether or not the operation button 75 has been operated. If a negative determination is made in step S2208, the second sound volume changing process is terminated as it is.

  If an affirmative determination is made in step S2208, the flow advances to step S2209 to execute a volume change process. In the volume change process, a process of changing the volume by one step from the current volume is performed. In a succeeding step S2210, an image update process for changing the volume is executed to notify that the volume has been changed based on the operation.

  In addition, about each process of these step S2201-step S2210, since it is the same as that of each process of step S1701-step S1710, detailed description is abbreviate | omitted.

  If an affirmative determination is made in step S2207, that is, if it is the end timing of the acceptance period, the process proceeds to step S2211. In step S2211, a second sound volume change operation acceptance end process is executed. Specifically, the volume adjustment mode second transition flag stored in the various flag storage areas 266 of the RAM 244 is deleted. As a result, the volume control mode ends. Thereafter, in step S2212, the volume changing image is hidden and the process proceeds to step S2213.

  In step S2213, it is determined whether the special effect mode or the opening / closing execution mode is in progress. If a negative determination is made in step S2213, the second sound volume changing process is terminated as it is. If a positive determination is made in step S2213, the process proceeds to step S2214.

  In step S2214, information related to the result of the current volume setting, specifically, a process of storing the set volume is performed. Specifically, the value of the correction volume counter provided in the various counter areas 265 of the RAM 244 is updated to one corresponding to the set volume. Specifically, the value of the correction volume counter corresponding to the opening / closing execution mode is updated in the opening / closing execution mode, and the value of the correction volume counter corresponding to the special effect mode is updated in the special effect mode. Update.

  In the subsequent step S2215, the sound volume correction flag is stored in the various flag storage areas 266 of the RAM 244. Specifically, a volume correction flag corresponding to the opening / closing execution mode is stored when the opening / closing execution mode is in effect, and a volume correction flag corresponding to the special effect mode is stored when being in the special effect mode. Regarding the value of the volume counter for correction and the volume correction flag, when the volume changed by the first volume change process returns to the initial set volume, specifically, a predetermined standby period (1800 sec) remains in the standby state. Cleared when it has passed.

  In the MPU 242 of the notification / production control device 82, a volume correction process for automatically correcting the volume is executed as part of the regular process. Here, the volume correction processing will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

(Volume correction processing)
In the volume correction process, first, in step S2301, it is determined whether it is the end timing of the opening / closing execution mode. If an affirmative determination is made in step S2301, the process proceeds to step S2302. In step S2302, it is determined whether or not volume correction related to the opening / closing execution mode is being performed.

  If a negative determination is made in step S2302, the sound volume correction processing is terminated as it is. If an affirmative determination is made in step S2302, a volume correction cancellation process is executed, and the volume correction process ends. By performing the volume correction cancellation process, the volume of the speaker unit 64 returns to the volume before the opening / closing execution mode is started.

  If a negative determination is made in step S2301, the process proceeds to step S2304. In step S2304, it is determined whether it is the end timing of the special effect mode. If an affirmative determination is made in step S2304, the process proceeds to step S2305. In step S2305, it is determined whether or not volume correction related to the special performance mode is being performed.

  If a negative determination is made in step S2305, the sound volume correction processing is terminated as it is. If an affirmative determination is made in step S2305, a volume correction cancellation process is executed, and the volume correction process ends. By performing the volume correction cancellation process, the volume of the speaker unit 64 returns to the volume before the special effect mode is started.

  If it is not the end timing of the opening / closing execution mode or the special effect mode, the process proceeds to step S2307. In step S2307, it is determined whether it is the start timing of the opening / closing execution mode. If an affirmative determination is made in step S2307, the process proceeds to step S2308. In step S2308, it is determined whether or not a volume correction flag corresponding to the open / close execution mode is stored in the various flag storage areas 266 of the RAM 244. If a negative determination is made in step S2308, the sound volume correction processing is terminated as it is.

  If an affirmative determination is made in step S2308, the process advances to step S2309 to execute a set volume specifying process corresponding to the opening / closing execution mode. In this set volume specifying process, the value of the correction volume counter corresponding to the open / close execution mode provided in the various counter areas 265 of the RAM 244 is specified. Thereafter, a volume correction process is executed in step S2310, and the volume correction process is terminated. By this volume correction process, the volume of the speaker unit 64 is corrected to the volume specified in step S2309.

  Returning to the description of step S2307, if a negative determination is made in step S2307, that is, if it is determined that it is not the start timing of the opening / closing execution mode, the process proceeds to step S2311. In step S2311, it is determined whether it is the start timing of the special performance mode. If a negative determination is made in step S2311, the voice correction processing is terminated as it is, and if an affirmative determination is made in step S2311, the process proceeds to step S2312.

  In step S2312, it is determined whether or not a volume correction flag corresponding to the special effect mode is stored in the various flag storage areas 266 of the RAM 244. If a negative determination is made in step S2312, the sound volume correction processing is terminated as it is.

  If an affirmative determination is made in step S2312, the process advances to step S2313 to execute a set volume specifying process corresponding to the special effect mode. In this set volume specifying process, the value of the correction volume counter corresponding to the special effect mode provided in the various counter areas 265 of the RAM 244 is specified. Thereafter, a volume correction process is executed in step S2314, and the volume correction process ends. By this volume correction process, the volume of the speaker unit 64 is corrected to the volume specified in step S2313.

  When the game is continued, the game situation may be the same as the previously generated game situation. Here, when the volume is adjusted in the previous situation, it is assumed that there is a high possibility that the player will feel the necessity of the volume adjustment even when the same situation is reached later. Therefore, by adopting a configuration that is applied when the result of volume adjustment performed previously becomes the same situation later, it is possible to eliminate the player's repeated adjustment operation. Thereby, the improvement of convenience is implement | achieved.

  The following effects can be expected by adjusting the volume according to the situation repeatedly according to the player's wishes. That is, even if the volume can be temporarily adjusted, if an adjustment operation is required every time the same situation occurs, an operation for adjusting the constant volume by making the operation troublesome (first volume change) ) Is likely to be performed. In this case, the sound volume becomes insufficient when necessary, or the sound volume becomes excessive when it is unnecessary. In this respect, according to the present embodiment, the volume is adjusted as necessary, and the occurrence of such excess and deficiency can be suitably avoided. This is also preferable for suppressing the base volume (the volume set based on the first volume change operation) itself from being changed to darkness.

  In the present embodiment, the value of the correction volume counter and the volume correction flag are set in a predetermined state while the volume changed by the first volume change process is returned to the initial set volume. However, before the sound volume changed by the first sound volume changing process returns to the initial setting sound volume, for example, a predetermined waiting period (in a standby state) (1800 sec) is cleared. For example, it may be configured to be cleared when 900 sec) elapses.

<Fifth embodiment>
As already described, sound sources such as background music (BGM) and speech and sound effects are provided as the sound source of the production sound output from the speaker unit 64, and these sound sources are produced according to the game progress (production progress). Are output alone or in combination. In the first embodiment, when the volume is adjusted, the volume is changed for all sound sources. However, in the present embodiment, a specific sound source is selected from a plurality of sound sources according to the situation. One feature is that the sound volume is changed. Specifically, as shown in the schematic diagram of FIG. 38, the volume levels of BGM, sound, and sound effects can be individually adjusted in five stages “1” to “5”. Hereinafter, the configuration related to the individual setting of the volume will be described with a focus on differences from the first embodiment.

  Also in the present embodiment, as in the first embodiment, a first volume changing process as a process for adjusting the volume during standby, and a second volume changing process as a process for adjusting the volume during a game, Is configured to be executed. Hereinafter, the second sound volume changing process according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

(Second volume change processing)
In the second volume changing process, first, in step S2401, it is determined whether the second volume changing operation is being accepted, that is, whether or not the volume adjusting mode is set. Specifically, it is determined whether or not the volume control mode second transition flag is stored in the various flag storage areas 266 of the RAM 244.

  If a negative determination is made in step S2401, the process proceeds to step S2402, and it is determined whether or not the game is in progress (the game is in progress). If a negative determination is made in step S2402, the second sound volume changing process is terminated as it is. If a positive determination is made in step S2402, the process proceeds to step S2403. In step S2403, it is determined whether or not volume change is restricted.

  If an affirmative determination is made in step S2403, the second sound volume changing process is terminated as it is. If a negative determination is made in step S2403, the process proceeds to step S2404. In step S2404, it is determined whether or not the operation button 75 has been operated. If a negative determination is made in step S2404, the second sound volume changing process is terminated as it is.

  If a positive determination is made in step S2404, the process proceeds to step S2405. In step S2405, processing for specifying a sound source (parameter) to be changed is performed. Specifically, a process is performed to specify which of the BGM, sound, and sound effects the effect sound output from the speaker unit 64 is configured at this timing.

  After executing the specific process of step S2405, a second volume change operation acceptance start process is executed in step S2506. Specifically, the volume adjustment mode second transition flag is stored in various flag storage areas 266 of the RAM 244. Thereby, it shifts to the volume control mode in which the volume can be adjusted. At the same time, a volume change acceptance period is set. In the present embodiment, the volume adjustment mode ends when this acceptance period has elapsed, and the volume at the end is maintained.

  After executing the start process of step S2406, the display process of the volume changing image is executed in the following step S2407, and then the second volume changing process is ended. Through the display processing of the volume change image, an image indicating that the volume adjustment mode is set is displayed. It should be noted that each sound source to be changed and the sound volume for each sound source are displayed for the sound volume changing image in the present embodiment.

  Returning to the description of step S2401, if an affirmative determination is made in step S2401, that is, if the volume adjustment mode is set, the process proceeds to step S2408. In step S2408, it is determined whether the acceptance period of the second volume changing operation has elapsed. If a negative determination is made in step S2408, that is, if it is determined that the reception period is still in progress, the process proceeds to step S2409. In step S2409, it is determined whether or not the operation button 75 has been operated. If a negative determination is made in step S2409, the second sound volume changing process is terminated as it is.

  If an affirmative determination is made in step S2409, the process proceeds to step S2410, and a process of changing the volume related to the sound source specified in step S2506 is executed. In this volume change process, a process for changing the volume of the specified sound source from the current volume by one level is performed. For example, when the specified sound source is BGM and sound, the sound volume related to the unspecified sound source (sound effect) is changed by changing the sound volume related to BGM by one step and changing the sound volume related to sound by one step. Keep that volume. As a result, the volume of the effect sound output from the speaker unit 64 is changed. In a succeeding step S2411, an image update process for changing the volume is executed to notify that the volume has been changed based on the operation.

  If an affirmative determination is made in step S2408, that is, if it is the end timing of the acceptance period, the process proceeds to step S2412. In step S2412, a second sound volume change operation acceptance end process is executed. Specifically, the volume adjustment mode second transition flag stored in the various flag storage areas 266 of the RAM 244 is deleted. As a result, the volume control mode ends. After that, in step S2413, the sound volume changing image is hidden and the second sound volume changing process is terminated.

  While the game is being played, the sound source can change as the performance progresses. That is, the sound source used varies depending on the situation. According to the second sound volume changing process, the sound source output when the adjustment operation is performed is specified, and the sound volume is changed so that only the sound volume related to the specified sound source is changed.

  On the other hand, when the game is not being performed (that is, during standby), the display screen 41a, the lamp units 46 and 47, etc. are turned off in consideration of reduction of power consumption and the like, and the speaker unit 64 The output of the production sound is avoided. Thus, when the volume adjustment operation is performed under the situation where the output of the production sound is stopped, the MPU 242 of the notification / production control device 82 executes the first sound volume changing process. The main flow of the first volume changing process is the same as that of the first embodiment, but the sound changing process (hereinafter referred to as the first changing process) shown in step S1608 is the same as that of the first embodiment. It is different from the form. Here, the first change process will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

(First change process)
In the first change process, first, in step S2501, it is determined whether or not there is a volume difference between the sound sources (parameters). If a negative determination is made in step S2501, the process proceeds to step S2502. In step S2502, a process of changing the volume related to all sound sources is performed. As illustrated in FIG. 40B, if the sound volume related to all sound sources is “4”, all the sound volumes are changed from “4” to “5”. If the sound volume related to all sound sources reaches the upper limit “5”, all the sound volumes are changed from “5” to the lower limit “1”.

  If an affirmative determination is made in step S2501, the process proceeds to step S2503. In step S2503, it is determined whether or not any of the three sound sources has reached the upper limit. If a negative determination is made in step S2503, the process proceeds to step S2502 to perform processing for changing the sound volume related to all sound sources. As illustrated in FIG. 40C, when the volume related to BGM and sound is “4” and the volume related to sound effect is “3”, the volume related to BGM and sound is set to “4”. From “3” to “4”, and the volume related to the sound effect is changed from “3” to “4”.

  If an affirmative determination is made in step S2503, that is, if it is determined that the volume of any of the three sound sources has reached the upper limit, the process proceeds to step S2504. In step S2504, a process of changing the volume related to a sound source other than the sound source whose volume has reached the upper limit is performed. As illustrated in FIG. 40C, when the volume related to BGM and sound is “5” and the volume related to sound effect is “4”, the volume related to BGM and sound is set to “5”. And the volume related to the sound effect is changed from “4” to “5”. As described above, the first sound volume changing process (first changing process) is provided with a function as means for reducing or eliminating a difference in sound volume related to each sound source.

  Here, with reference to the schematic diagram of FIG. 41, a supplementary description will be given of the relationship between the change in the situation and the change in the sound source that can be the target of volume adjustment.

  In a standby state in which no game is being performed, the output of effect sound from the speaker unit 64 is avoided. When volume adjustment is performed in such a situation, the volume related to all sound sources such as BGM, voice, and sound effects is the target of volume adjustment.

  After the game is started, BGM is continuously output, and sound and sound effects are output as appropriate according to the progress of the production. When volume adjustment is performed in a situation where only BGM is being output, only the volume related to BGM is subject to volume adjustment. When volume adjustment is performed in a situation where a sound effect is output in addition to BGM, the sound volume related to BGM and the sound effect is the target of volume adjustment. When volume adjustment is performed in a situation where sound is output in addition to BGM, the volume related to BGM and sound is the target of volume adjustment. When volume adjustment is performed in a state where all sound sources of BGM, sound, and sound effects are output, the sound volume related to all the sound sources becomes the target of volume adjustment.

  In the first place, there is a difference in the sound volume preferred for each sound source by the player and the ease of hearing for each sound source. According to the configuration shown in the present embodiment, it is possible to adjust the sound volume more suited to the player's preference and the like by differentiating the sound source to be adjusted according to the situation where the adjusting operation is performed.

  For example, if the player can manually adjust the volume of each sound source, the above-described fine adjustment can be performed. However, in such a configuration, there is a possibility that the adjustment operation becomes complicated and an impression that the player is troublesome. In this case, there is a concern that the adjustment function will not be used successfully. In this regard, in the present embodiment, the sound source that the player wants to change is identified on the gaming machine side, and the volume related to a plurality of sound sources is adjusted based on one adjustment operation. Contributes to simplification of operation. Thereby, utilization of an adjustment function can be promoted.

  Moreover, if individual volume adjustment is possible, the effect that the total volume of effect sound can be reduced can be expected. Therefore, it is possible to reduce noise and contribute to the improvement of the gaming environment in the gaming hall.

  It should be noted that the technical idea shown in the present embodiment can be applied to the second to fourth embodiments.

<Sixth Embodiment>
In each of the above-described embodiments, the sound volume returns to the initial setting sound volume (default: “3”) at a timing when a predetermined waiting period has elapsed since entering the standby state. However, in the present embodiment, The configuration relating to this return is different from that of the first embodiment. In addition, the configuration is different from that of the first embodiment in that the device is designed in consideration of volume adjustment at the start of the game. Hereinafter, the description of the configuration that is common to the first embodiment will be cited, and the configuration according to the above difference will be mainly described.

  In the MPU 242 of the notification / production control device 82, when the volume of the speaker unit 64 is changed from the initial set volume by the first volume changing process and the second volume changing process, the volume is changed to cancel the change. Release processing is executed. The volume change canceling process is a process executed as part of the regular process by the MPU 242 of the notification / production control device 82. The volume change canceling process will be described below with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

(Volume change release process)
In the volume change canceling process, first, in step S2601, it is determined whether a canceling condition for canceling the volume change is satisfied. Specifically, it is determined whether or not a later-described volume change release flag is stored in the various flag storage areas 266 of the RAM 244.

  If a negative determination is made in step S2601, the process proceeds to step S2602. In step S2602, it is determined whether or not a predetermined standby period has elapsed in the standby state. If a negative determination is made in step S2602, that is, if it is determined that the standby period has not yet elapsed, the sound volume change canceling process is terminated as it is. On the other hand, if a positive determination is made in step S2602, the process proceeds to step S2603. In step S 2603, the volume change release flag is stored in various flag storage areas 266 of the RAM 244.

  Returning to the description of step S2601, if an affirmative determination is made in step S2601, that is, if a volume change release flag is stored in the various flag storage areas 266 of the RAM 244, the process proceeds to step S2604. In step S2604, it is determined whether or not it is the game turn start timing (variation display start timing). Specifically, it is determined whether a hold command is received through a standby state.

  If a negative determination is made in step S2604, the volume change cancellation processing is terminated as it is. On the other hand, if a positive determination is made in step S2604, the process proceeds to step S2605. In step S2605, a volume change release process is executed. In the volume change canceling process, when the volume of the speaker unit 64 is changed from the initial volume by the first volume changing process and the second volume changing process, this change is canceled and the volume is set to the initial volume. Perform processing to return. Thereby, the sound volume returns to the initial setting sound volume with the start of the game. Further, the volume change cancellation flag stored in the various flag storage areas 266 is deleted.

  After executing the process of step S2605, the volume change permission flag is stored in the various flag storage areas 266 of the RAM 244 in step S2606, and the process for releasing the volume change is terminated. The volume change permission flag is a flag that is deleted when the game turn related to the release of the volume change is completed.

  In the periodic process in the MPU 242 of the notification / production control device 82, the command is received from the main control device 81, and then the process proceeds in the order of the volume change cancellation process → the production mode determination process. Yes. The effect mode determination process is partly different from the effect mode determination process in the first embodiment shown in FIG. Therefore, the effect mode determination process in the present embodiment will be described below with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

(Production mode determination process)
In the effect mode determination process, it is determined whether or not the hold command received from the main control device 81 in step S2701 is a big hit support hold command or a miss reach support hold command. If an affirmative determination is made in step S2701, the process proceeds to step S2702. In step S2702, it is determined whether or not the hold command received this time corresponds to super reach. If super-reach is supported, the process advances to step S2703.

  In step S2703, it is determined whether or not a volume change permission flag is stored in the various flag storage areas 266 of the RAM 244. If a negative determination is made in step S2703, the processing from step S2704 to step S2707 is executed. About each process of these step S2704-step S2707, since it is the same as that of each process of the said step S1403-step S1406, description is used.

  If an affirmative determination is made in step S2703, the process advances to step S2707. In step S2707, operation non-operation-compatible super reach setting processing is executed. In the setting process in step S2707, it is specified which one of Super Reach A and Super Reach B is to be executed as the game mode effect mode related to the hold command received this time, and the effect mode is included in various information included in the hold command. Is stored in the hold information storage area 267 to which information (information relating to the availability of operation and the type of super reach) is added.

  Returning to the description of step S2702, if a negative determination is made in step S2702, that is, if it is determined that the command is not a super-reach pending command, the process proceeds to step S2708. In step S2708, it is determined whether a volume change permission flag is stored in various flag storage areas 266 of the RAM 244. If a negative determination is made in step S2708, the processes in steps S2709 to S2712 are executed. About each process of these step S2709-step S2712, since it is the same as that of each process of said step S1407-step S1410, description is used.

  When an affirmative determination is made in step S2708, the process proceeds to step S2612, and an operation non-corresponding normal reach setting process is executed. In the setting process of step S2612, it is specified which of normal reach A and normal reach B is executed as the game mode effect mode related to the hold command received this time, and the effect mode is specified in various information included in the hold command. On-hold information to which information (information relating to availability of operation and information on the type of normal reach) is added is stored in the on-hold information storage area 267.

  Returning to the description of step S2701, if a negative determination is made in step S2701, that is, if the received hold command is a hold command corresponding to complete detachment, the process proceeds to step S2713 to perform setting processing for complete detachment. . Specifically, it is specified that execution of complete losing is performed as the game mode effect mode related to the hold command received this time, and information for specifying the effect mode is added to various information included in the hold command. Information is stored in the hold information storage area 267.

  According to the present embodiment, in the game times related to the cancellation of the volume change, the operation corresponding effect is avoided regardless of the type of the variable display mode such as normal reach, super reach, etc. Implementation requirements for volume control are guaranteed.

  Whether or not the sound volume is sufficient can be grasped at the timing when the output of the production sound is started by the start of the game. That is, the volume adjustment is more likely to be performed in the first game time than in other game times. Even if the game is started after adjusting the volume during standby, there is a high possibility that the adjustment is performed again due to the difference in how the sample sound and the effect sound are heard. Considering such circumstances, allowing the volume adjustment in the first game round can contribute to the promotion of the use of the volume adjustment function.

<Other embodiments>
In addition, it is not limited to the description content of each embodiment mentioned above, For example, you may implement as follows. Incidentally, each of the following configurations may be individually applied to each of the above embodiments, or a part or all of them may be combined and applied to each of the above embodiments. It is also possible to arbitrarily combine all or some of the various configurations shown in the above embodiments. In this case, it is preferable that the technical significance (effects to be exerted) of the components to be combined is ensured. Each of the following configurations may be applied individually to a new configuration that is a combination of the embodiments, or a part or all of the configurations may be applied in combination.

  (1) In each of the above embodiments, when the volume is adjusted during standby (non-game), the sample sound for volume adjustment is output at the changed volume. It is not limited. When the volume control mode is entered, a configuration sound such as BGM used during the game is output over a period until the volume control mode ends, and the volume of the effect sound is obtained as a result of the volume control. It is also possible to adopt a configuration in which

  There may be a difference in how the sample sound is heard and the sound source that is actually used as the production sound. For this reason, even if the volume is adjusted based on the sample sound, it cannot be denied that the player may not be satisfied with the player's wish. When such an event occurs, the need for readjustment of the volume increases. In this regard, if the effect sound that is actually used in the game is output as the sample sound, such inconvenience can be suitably suppressed.

  (2) In each of the above-described embodiments, when the operation button 75 as the “volume adjusting means” is operated, the operation proceeds to the volume adjustment mode, and the operation is performed when the operation button 75 is operated again during the volume adjustment mode. However, it is not necessary to make such a stepwise operation essential when adjusting the volume. It is also possible to adopt a configuration in which the volume is changed by the first operation.

  (3) In each of the above embodiments, the volume adjustment mode is terminated when a predetermined adjustment period has elapsed from the start timing of the volume adjustment mode when the volume adjustment mode is entered. The end condition of the adjustment mode can be arbitrarily changed. For example, the adjustment period can be extended by operating the operation button 75 during the volume adjustment mode. It is also possible to adopt a configuration in which the volume adjustment mode is ended based on a predetermined end operation instead of providing such an adjustment period.

  However, when the above-described modification is adopted, the end timing of the volume adjustment mode is uncertain. In consideration of such circumstances, as shown in the second embodiment, it is preferable to avoid the operation corresponding effect during the volume adjustment mode.

  (4) In each of the above embodiments, the push-type operation button 75 is employed as the “operation means” operated by the player, but the specific configuration of the operation means is arbitrary. For example, it may be a dial type (rotary type). If the configuration is such that the volume is changed according to the angle of the dial type operation means, the time required for volume adjustment can be shortened compared to the pressure type operation means. In particular, as shown in the first embodiment, in a configuration in which volume adjustment is possible on the premise that interference with an operation-corresponding effect can be avoided, the opportunity for volume adjustment is increased by reducing the time. be able to.

  (5) In each of the above-described embodiments, the function as the operation means for adjusting the volume is given to the operation button 75 as the operation means for the operation corresponding effect, but the operation means for adjusting the volume separately from the operation button 75. It is also possible to have a configuration comprising That is, an operation means for operation-related effects and an operation means for volume adjustment may be provided separately.

  (6) In the first embodiment, it is determined whether or not the volume can be adjusted based on the minimum grace time that can be secured, but the prefetching function is not essential. At least when the operation corresponding effect is performed during the game time at the start of the game time, the volume adjustment may be disabled.

  (7) In the second embodiment, when rewriting from the operation-compatible effect to the operation-incompatible effect is required in accordance with the volume adjustment, the rewriting-only effect is performed. Is also possible. However, this rewriting-only effect does not necessarily have to be an operation-incompatible effect. For example, when a long version for continuous operation with a relatively long production period and a short version for single operation with a relatively short production period are provided, and volume adjustment and operation-compatible production are executed In addition, it is possible to select a long version / short version / non-operation effect version based on the remaining time. Thereby, an adjustment function and the execution function of an operation corresponding | compatible effect can coexist more suitably.

  (8) In the third embodiment, the second volume changing process is configured to increase and decrease the volume, and a plurality of levels of increase and decrease are provided. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the second volume changing process may be configured to temporarily increase or decrease the volume as one having a function for raising or lowering the volume. In addition, it is possible to differentiate from the first volume changing process by setting the adjustment range when changing the volume as one step.

  (9) In the first to third embodiments, the volume change by the first volume change process and the volume change by the second volume change process are handled in the same manner. However, the present invention is not limited to this. It is not a thing. For example, the reference volume may be changed by the first volume change process, and the degree of change from the reference volume may be defined by the second volume change process.

  (10) In the third embodiment, an RTC (real time clock) is mounted on the MPU 242 of the notification / production control device 82, and the special production mode is entered when a predetermined date and time is reached. For example, the trigger for the transition to the production mode is not limited to the date and time. For example, the transition to the special production mode is performed based on the fact that the number of stored hold information has reached a predetermined number (for example, the upper limit of storage). It is also possible.

  (11) In the fifth embodiment, the volume correction is automatically performed only for the special effect mode and the opening / closing execution mode. However, the target of the automatic volume correction is not limited to these modes. Absent. For example, when the volume is changed based on the player's operation during Super Reach A, the volume is corrected according to the previous change result when Super Reach A is executed again thereafter. Is also possible. Further, the target may not be super reach A, but may be extended to a super reach group including super reach A, or may be extended to a reach display group including super reach A.

  (12) In the fifth embodiment, the sound source is roughly classified into BGM, sound, and sound effect, and the volume is adjusted individually for each sound source. However, the effect sound is composed of a plurality of sound sources. As long as it is possible to adjust the sound volume of each sound source individually, it is arbitrary in what category the sound sources are divided. Moreover, when BGM is set separately according to a game situation, it is good also as a structure which can adjust a sound volume for each of these BGM.

  (13) In the sixth embodiment, a volume change release flag is set when a predetermined standby period has elapsed from the game time that has been a trigger for shifting to the standby state, and the volume change release flag is set when the game is resumed. Based on the fact that the flag is stored, the sound volume is returned to the initial sound volume. If the timing for returning the sound volume to the initial sound volume can be set when the game is resumed, the management by the flag is not necessarily required. For example, a timer counter that is updated from the game times that triggered the transition to the standby state is provided, and it is determined whether or not a predetermined standby period has elapsed with reference to the timer counter when the game is resumed, and the determination result It is also possible to adopt a configuration for returning to the initial state based on the above.

  (14) In the sixth embodiment, the operation-corresponding effect is restricted while allowing the volume adjustment for the game times related to the start of the game. It is not always necessary to set the game during the game start. For example, in the case where hold information is newly acquired during a game turn related to the start of a game, it is also possible to adopt a configuration that restricts the operation-related effect while permitting volume adjustment over the game turn related to the hold information. It is. In addition, it is possible to adopt a configuration in which the operation state is restricted to allow the volume adjustment to be regulated at the game turn related to the start of the game, and the restricted state is maintained until the suspension is interrupted.

  (15) Other types of pachinko machines different from the above-described embodiments, such as pachinko machines in which an electric accessory is released a predetermined number of times when a game ball enters a specific area of a special device, or games in a specific area of a special device The present invention can also be applied to a pachinko machine that generates a big hit when a ball enters, a pachinko machine equipped with another accessory, an arrangement ball machine, a sparrow ball, and the like.

  Also, a non-ball-type gaming machine, for example, a plurality of reels with a plurality of types of symbols attached in the circumferential direction, starts rotation of the reel by inserting a medal and operating a start lever, and a stop switch is operated. The present invention also relates to a slot machine that gives a player a privilege such as paying out medals when a specific symbol or a combination of specific symbols is established on an effective line that can be visually recognized from the display window after the reel stops. Can be applied.

  Further, the gaming machine main body supported by the outer frame so as to be openable and closable is provided with a storage unit and a capture device, and the start lever is operated after a predetermined number of game balls stored in the storage unit are captured by the capture device. Thus, the present invention can also be applied to a gaming machine in which a pachinko machine and a slot machine are fused to start the rotation of the reel.

<Invention Group Extracted from Each Embodiment>
Hereinafter, the characteristics of the invention group extracted from each of the above-described embodiments will be described while showing effects and the like as necessary. In the following, for ease of understanding, the corresponding configuration in the above embodiment is appropriately shown in parentheses, but is not limited to the specific configuration shown in parentheses.

  The following feature group is, “For example, in a gaming machine such as a pachinko machine, it is provided with a picture display means for performing variable display (display effect) of a picture triggered by a ball entering a ball-entry unit provided in a game area. In this type of gaming machine, attention to the game can be improved by outputting effect sounds such as BGM from the speaker in conjunction with various display effects executed on the display screen of the picture display means. When a gaming machine is installed in an island facility such as a gaming hall, the sound around the gaming machine (for example, noise) can vary depending on the environmental conditions such as the installation location. In consideration of the background art that “a volume adjusting means capable of adjusting the volume of the speaker by a predetermined operation has been proposed” (for example, see Patent Document 1). line In the gaming machine, on which successfully demonstrated the volume control function, in which there is still room for improvement in its configuration. Invention that "has been made with the problems to be solved.

<Feature A group>
Feature A1. Information acquisition means (MPU 202 of the main control device 81 performs information acquisition processing) for acquiring special information (holding information) based on the establishment of a predetermined acquisition condition (for example, entry into the operation ports 33a and 33b). Function to be executed), acquisition information storage means (RAM 204 of the main control device 81) for storing the special information acquired by the information acquisition means, and special information stored in the acquisition information storage means correspond to the given information. A process for advancing the game based on the result of the determination of the grant by the grant determination means (a function of executing the success / failure determination process or the like by the MPU 202 of the main control device 81). A game machine having a game control means (a function of executing a game turn control process or the like in the MPU 202 of the main control device 81),
Sound output means (speaker unit 64) for outputting audible sound (for example, production sound);
Output control means (sound output function in the MPU 242 of the notification / production control device 82) for controlling the output of audible sound by the sound output means as the game progresses;
Volume adjustment means (MPU 242 of the notification / production control device 82) that adjusts the volume of the sound output means based on the adjustment operation when a player performs a predetermined adjustment operation while the game is in progress And a volume control function in the game machine.

  Since the volume can be adjusted while the game is in progress as shown in the feature A1, it is not necessary to interrupt the game for adjusting the volume, for example, or to refrain from starting the game until the volume adjustment is completed. Thereby, it can suppress that provision of a volume control function becomes a factor which reduces the operating rate of a game machine. Also, for example, when it is difficult to hear the music in a situation where a production sound such as a desired music is being output as the audible sound, the volume can be quickly adjusted (for example, until the progress of the game is stopped). By not having to wait for volume control, the player's needs can be met immediately. As a result, it is possible to suitably avoid the occurrence of inconvenience such that the volume adjustment function is not utilized well. Improving responsiveness in this way is also effective in improving convenience when using the volume control function.

Feature A2. Information acquisition means (MPU 202 of the main control device 81 performs information acquisition processing) for acquiring special information (holding information) based on the establishment of a predetermined acquisition condition (for example, entry into the operation ports 33a and 33b). Function to execute)
Acquisition information storage means (RAM 204 of the main control device 81) for storing the special information acquired by the information acquisition means;
Grant determination means (a function for executing the determination process in the MPU 202 of the main control device 81) for determining whether or not the special information stored in the acquired information storage means corresponds to the grant information;
Game control means (a function for executing game times control processing or the like in the MPU 202 of the main control device 81) for performing processing to advance a game based on the result of the grant determination by the grant determination means;
Operation means (operation buttons 75) operated by the player;
An operation-corresponding effect executing means (a function for executing an operation-corresponding effect in the MPU 242 of the notification / effect control device 82) for executing an operation-corresponding effect corresponding to the operation based on the operation means being operated;
Sound output means (speaker unit 64) for outputting audible sound (for example, production sound);
Output control means (sound output function in the MPU 242 of the notification / production control device 82) for controlling the output of audible sound by the sound output means as the game progresses;
Volume adjustment means for adjusting the volume of the sound output means based on the operation when the operation means is operated while a game is in progress (volume adjustment function in the MPU 242 of the notification / production control device 82) A gaming machine characterized by comprising:

  Since the volume can be adjusted while the game is in progress as shown in the feature A2, it is not necessary to interrupt the game for adjusting the volume, for example, or to refrain from starting the game until the volume adjustment is completed. Thereby, it can suppress that provision of a volume control function becomes a factor which reduces the operating rate of a game machine. Also, for example, when it is difficult to hear the music in a situation where a production sound such as a desired music is being output as the audible sound, the volume can be quickly adjusted (for example, until the progress of the game is stopped). By not having to wait for volume control, the player's needs can be met immediately. As a result, it is possible to suitably avoid the occurrence of inconvenience such that the volume adjustment function is not utilized well. Improving responsiveness in this way is also effective in improving convenience when using the volume control function.

  Further, by using the operation means used in the operation-corresponding effect for the operation for adjusting the volume, it is possible to suitably suppress the complexity of the structure of the gaming machine due to the provision of the volume adjustment function.

  Feature A3. The volume control means is configured to change the volume of an audible sound (such as BGM) output from the sound output means as a game progresses when the operation means is operated. The gaming machine according to Feature A2, characterized by:

  When the volume is adjusted, a sample sound for volume adjustment is output based on the operation, so that the player can feel how much the volume has changed. However, if the sample sound for volume adjustment is far from the audible sound (effect sound) output as the game progresses, there may be a difference in how it is heard. For this reason, even if the player adjusts the sound volume according to his / her preference, the actual performance sound output as the game progresses may be heard louder or smaller, for example. This is not preferable because once the volume is adjusted, the volume needs to be adjusted again. In this respect, occurrence of such inconvenience can be suitably avoided by changing the sound that is heard during the game.

  Feature A4. When the operation corresponding effect is performed by the operation corresponding effect executing unit, the volume adjustment by the volume adjusting unit based on the operation of the operation unit is restricted, and the volume adjustment is performed by the volume adjusting unit. The gaming machine according to feature A2 or feature A3, further comprising means for restricting the operation corresponding effect by the operation corresponding effect executing means based on the operation of the operation means.

  As shown in the feature A2 and the like, according to the configuration in which the operation means for production is used for volume adjustment, the operation system can be shared, so that the complexity of the structure can be suppressed. However, if the volume changes as a result of performing the operation according to the performance, or if the operation corresponding performance is executed as a result of performing the operation in order to adjust the volume, a result according to the intention of the player is obtained. It may be lost and the significance of the operation means may be impaired. In this regard, as shown in this feature, by restricting the operation-response effect at the time of volume adjustment and restricting the sound volume adjustment at the operation-response effect, the effect function and the sound volume adjustment function coexist well by avoiding mutual interference Can be made.

Feature A5. The volume adjusting means is
Volume adjustment state transition means (function for executing transition processing to the volume adjustment mode in the MPU 242 of the notification / production control device 82) that sets the volume adjustment state in which the volume adjustment is permitted based on the operation of the operation means. ,
When the operation means is operated in a state where the sound volume is adjusted, a sound volume changing means for changing the sound volume based on the operation (volume change processing is performed by the MPU 242 of the notification / production control device 82). Function to be executed)
When the operation-corresponding effect is set, when the determination timing for determining whether or not the operation-corresponding effect can be performed is reached, the operation-corresponding effect is permitted when the volume adjustment state is not established. The gaming machine according to feature A2 or feature A3, further comprising an effect restricting means for restricting the subsequent operation-corresponding effects when the sound volume is adjusted.

  As shown in the feature A2 and the like, according to the configuration in which the operation means for production is used for volume adjustment, the operation system can be shared, so that the complexity of the structure can be suppressed. However, if the volume changes as a result of performing the operation according to the performance, or if the operation corresponding performance is executed as a result of performing the operation in order to adjust the volume, a result according to the intention of the player is obtained. It may be lost and the significance of the operation means may be impaired.

  In this regard, as shown in this feature, by determining whether or not the operation-compatible effect is possible based on whether or not the sound volume is adjusted, an operation-related effect interruption or the like occurs during the sound volume adjustment. Can be avoided. By preparing an environment where the volume adjustment can be performed calmly in this manner, the player can preferably enjoy the benefits of the volume adjustment function during the game. This is a preferable configuration for avoiding mutual interference and causing the production function and the volume control function to coexist.

  Further, there is a concern that the player will be confused if the second half of the operation corresponding effect is suddenly displayed using the remaining time such as immediately after the volume adjustment is completed. In this respect, the occurrence of such inconvenience can be suitably suppressed by restricting the return to the operation-compatible effect after the volume adjustment is finished as shown in this feature. If it becomes possible to grasp that the operation-related effect is regulated by the operation related to the volume control, the player's own operation becomes a factor in the regulation of the operation-related effect for the player who is playing the game expecting the operation-related effect. It is feared that the willingness to play will be reduced and the promotion of the use of volume control will be hindered. The configuration shown in this feature is advantageous in suppressing the occurrence of such inconvenience.

Feature A6. A normal effect executing means (function for executing an operation non-corresponding effect in the MPU 242 of the notification / effect control device 82) for executing a normal effect (operation non-corresponding effect) not corresponding to the operation means;
An effect changing means (notification / effect) for changing the effect mode from the operation-responsive effect to the normal effect when the operation-compatible effect is restricted by the effect restricting means in a situation where the operation-responsive effect is set. The gaming machine according to feature A5, further comprising: a function of executing a rewriting process by the MPU 242 of the control device 82.

  Regardless of the situation in which the operation corresponding effect is originally performed as shown in the feature A5, the restriction of the operation corresponding effect due to the volume adjustment can be a factor of reducing the effect function of the gaming machine. Therefore, when the volume adjustment is performed, instead of the operation-compatible effect, a configuration in which a normal effect (operation-incompatible effect) is performed can suitably suppress the deterioration of the effect function as described above.

  In addition, it is possible to avoid indirectly exposing that the operation-corresponding effect is canceled by executing the normal effect by making the effect that can be set as the game progresses as the normal effect, regardless of the operation-corresponding effect. .

  Feature A7. Any one of features A2 to A6, further comprising an adjustment restriction unit that regulates volume adjustment by the volume adjustment unit when the operation corresponding production is performed by the operation corresponding production execution unit. The gaming machine described in 1.

  According to the feature A7, it is possible to avoid the interruption of the volume adjustment during the operation corresponding effect. Thereby, for example, when an operation is performed in the flow of an operation-related effect, it is possible to avoid the operation from triggering volume adjustment against the player's intention.

  For example, it may be configured such that the regulation of the volume adjustment is started with the start of the operation corresponding effect, and the restriction of the volume adjustment is released based on the end of the operation corresponding effect.

Feature A8. The volume adjusting means is
Volume adjustment state transition means (function for executing transition processing to the volume adjustment mode in the MPU 242 of the notification / production control device 82) that sets the volume adjustment state in which the volume adjustment is permitted based on the operation of the operation means. ,
When the operation means is operated in a state where the sound volume is adjusted, a sound volume changing means for changing the sound volume based on the operation (volume change processing is performed by the MPU 242 of the notification / production control device 82). Function to be executed)
Adjustment regulation means for regulating volume adjustment by the volume adjustment means when the operation correspondence effect is being performed by the operation corresponding effect execution means;
When the production mode is set so that the operation-related production is performed with the progress of the game, the transition to the volume adjustment state is performed until the predetermined timing before the operation-related production is started. Is allowed,
If the volume adjustment state is not set at the predetermined timing, the operation corresponding effect is performed in the set effect mode, and set when the volume adjustment state is set at the predetermined timing. The gaming machine according to any one of the features A2 to A6, further comprising means for rewriting a previously produced effect mode from the operation-compatible effect to a normal effect not corresponding to the operation means.

  According to the configuration shown in this feature, when the predetermined timing (determination timing) is reached while the volume adjustment state is maintained, switching (re-setting) from the operation-compatible effect to the normal effect (operation-incompatible effect) is performed. Made. Thereby, the technical idea shown in the feature A7 can be preferably realized.

  In addition, it is possible to suitably secure a period related to rewriting of the production by adopting a configuration in which the switching of the production is performed prior to the operation-related production. As a result, it is possible to avoid changing the production flow and to smoothly change the production flow.

Feature A9. The volume adjusting means is
Volume adjustment state transition means (function for executing transition processing to the volume adjustment mode in the MPU 242 of the notification / production control device 82) that sets the volume adjustment state in which the volume adjustment is permitted based on the operation of the operation means. ,
When the operation means is operated in a state where the sound volume is adjusted, a sound volume changing means for changing the sound volume based on the operation (volume change processing is performed by the MPU 242 of the notification / production control device 82). Function to be executed)
The acquired information storage means is configured to store a plurality of special information,
The grant determination means is configured to sequentially perform the grant determination for a plurality of special information stored in the acquisition information storage means,
The game control means includes means for determining a variable display mode of a pattern for each special information stored in the acquired information storage means.
Information regarding the variable display mode of the picture when the predetermined special information stored in the acquired information storage means is the target of the determination of applicability, rather than the predetermined special information being the target of the determination of grant. A destination specifying means for specifying at the previous timing is provided,
When the volume adjustment state is reached, the volume adjustment state is continued for a preset period,
When transitioning to the volume adjustment state, period determining means for determining whether or not the predetermined period can be ensured by the start of the operation corresponding effect based on the information specified by the destination specifying means;
When it is determined by the period determining means that the predetermined period can be secured, the operation corresponding effect is executed after the volume adjustment state is finished, and when the period determining means determines that the predetermined period cannot be secured The game machine according to any one of features A2 to A6, further comprising means for rewriting the operation-corresponding effect to a normal effect not corresponding to the operation means.

  According to the configuration shown in this feature, when the period for the volume adjustment state can be ensured before the operation corresponding effect is started, the operation corresponding effect is executed after the end of the volume adjustment state, and it is determined that the period cannot be ensured. In such a case, the operation-compatible effect is rewritten to a normal effect (operation non-compatible effect). Thereby, the technical idea shown in the feature A7 and the like can be suitably realized. For example, by adopting a configuration in which a period for setting the sound volume adjustment state across a plurality of special information can be ensured, the condition for shifting to the sound volume adjustment state can be relaxed, and the sound volume adjustment function can be contributed to the promotion of use. In addition, it is possible to suitably secure a period related to rewriting of the production by adopting a configuration in which the switching of the production is performed prior to the operation-related production. As a result, it is possible to avoid changing the production flow and to smoothly change the production flow.

Feature A10. The volume adjusting means is
Volume adjustment state transition means (function for executing transition processing to the volume adjustment mode in the MPU 242 of the notification / production control device 82) that sets the volume adjustment state in which the volume adjustment is permitted based on the operation of the operation means. ,
When the operation means is operated in a state where the sound volume is adjusted, a sound volume changing means for changing the sound volume based on the operation (volume change processing is performed by the MPU 242 of the notification / production control device 82). Function to be executed)
The acquired information storage means is configured to store a plurality of special information,
The grant determination means is configured to sequentially perform the grant determination for a plurality of special information stored in the acquisition information storage means,
The game control means includes means for determining a variable display mode of a pattern for each special information stored in the acquired information storage means.
Information regarding the variable display mode of the picture when the predetermined special information stored in the acquired information storage means is the target of the determination of applicability, rather than the predetermined special information being the target of the determination of grant. A destination specifying means for specifying at the previous timing is provided,
When the volume adjustment state is reached, the volume adjustment state is continued for a preset period,
When transitioning to the volume adjustment state, period determining means for determining whether or not the predetermined period can be ensured by the start of the operation corresponding effect based on the information specified by the destination specifying means;
When it is determined by the period determination means that the predetermined period can be secured, the transition to the volume adjustment state is allowed, and when the determination means determines that the predetermined period cannot be ensured, the volume adjustment state The gaming machine according to any one of features A2 to A5, further comprising: means for restricting transition to

  According to the configuration shown in this feature, when it is possible to ensure the period for the volume adjustment state before the operation corresponding effect is started, it is determined that the transition to the volume adjustment state is allowed and the period cannot be ensured. In some cases, the transition to the volume control state is restricted. With such a configuration, the technical idea shown in the feature A5 and the like can be suitably realized.

Feature A11. The output control means includes
Sound source storage means for storing different types of sound sources;
Selecting means for selecting one sound source or a plurality of sound sources to be output according to the game situation;
Have
The volume adjusting means is
Volume setting means for setting the volume for each sound source;
When volume adjustment is performed by the volume adjustment means, sound source specifying means for specifying a sound source to be output; and
The game according to any one of features A2 to A10, further comprising means for changing the volume set by the volume setting means for the sound source specified by the sound source specifying means Machine.

  By enabling the sound volume setting for each sound source in a type of game machine in which the sound source to be output is selected according to the game situation, it is possible to set the sound volume according to the player's preference.

  However, in the case of having such a plurality of sound sources, the adjustment operation can be complicated if individual setting work is required for each sound source. This gives the player the impression that the operation is troublesome, and it is assumed that the volume adjustment function is not utilized well. In this regard, according to the configuration shown in this feature, the sound source that is the output target is identified according to the situation in which the adjustment operation is performed, and the identified sound source is set as the volume adjustment target as described above. It is possible to avoid troublesome individual settings. Thereby, the convenience of a volume control function can be improved and it can contribute to the utilization promotion of the said function.

Feature A12. The volume adjusting means is
Volume adjustment state transition means (function for executing transition processing to the volume adjustment mode in the MPU 242 of the notification / production control device 82) that sets the volume adjustment state in which the volume adjustment is permitted based on the operation of the operation means. ,
When the operation means is operated in a state where the sound volume is adjusted, a sound volume changing means for changing the sound volume based on the operation (volume change processing is performed by the MPU 242 of the notification / production control device 82). Function to be executed)
The game according to Feature A11, wherein the sound source specifying means is configured to specify a sound source of a sound being output when an operation that has triggered the transition to the volume adjustment state is performed. Machine.

  In the first place, if you take into consideration that the game situation changes every moment, and that the volume adjustment operation also requires a certain period of time, go to the timing and volume adjustment status when the volume change operation is actually performed The timing at which the transition operation is performed is shifted. Here, with regard to the sound source to be adjusted, the sound source that was the output target when the operation that triggered the transition to the volume adjustment state is performed, so that the sound volume that is the target of output can be adjusted to meet the needs of the player. The volume can be adjusted. This is because it is assumed that an operation related to volume adjustment (transition operation) is often performed at a timing when it is determined to adjust the volume.

Feature A13. When the volume is adjusted based on the operation of the operation means, the volume storage means for storing the volume before the adjustment,
The sound volume adjusting means includes means for setting a sound volume in the sound output means to a sound volume stored in the sound volume storage means when a predetermined return condition is satisfied. Game machines.

  As shown in feature A12, in the configuration in which the volume is adjusted for each sound source, the sound source that does not match the player's intention is adjusted by delaying the timing of the operation that triggers the transition to the volume adjustment state. The case where it becomes the object of this may occur. Therefore, as shown in this feature, if the configuration returns to the volume before the adjustment, the volume that has been changed by mistake returns to the level before the adjustment, and thus it is possible to suitably suppress the decrease in convenience.

Feature A14. The volume changing means is a first volume adjusting means for temporarily adjusting the volume of the sound output means based on the operation when the operation means is operated while a game is in progress.
A second volume that adjusts the volume of the sound output means over a period longer than the adjustment period by the first volume adjustment means when the operation means is operated when a game is not progressing. Adjustment means,
The storage means stores the volume adjusted by the second volume adjustment means before the adjustment when the volume is adjusted by the first volume adjustment means,
The sound volume adjusting means includes means for setting a sound volume in the sound output means to a sound volume stored in the sound volume storing means when a predetermined return condition is satisfied. Game machines.

  By further using the first volume control means for temporarily changing the volume and the second volume control for adjusting the volume over a longer period, the convenience can be further improved. Can contribute. In particular, after temporarily increasing or decreasing the volume, the technical idea shown in the feature A13 can be suitably realized by returning to the base volume.

Feature A15. Status storage means for storing the status of the volume adjustment;
Volume storage means for storing a volume adjustment result corresponding to the situation stored by the situation storage means;
Any one of features A2 to A14, further comprising: a correction unit that adjusts the volume stored by the volume storage unit when the same situation as that stored by the status storage unit is reached. The gaming machine described in one.

  According to the feature A15, when the volume is adjusted in a desired situation or the like, the volume is automatically adjusted (corrected) based on the previous adjustment result in the same situation thereafter. . Thereby, the player's repeated adjustment operation is unnecessary, and an increase in the operation burden due to the improvement in convenience can be suitably suppressed.

  Feature A16. The game according to Feature A15, further comprising means for returning the volume adjusted by the correction means to the volume before correction by the correction means based on the end of the situation stored by the situation storage means. Machine.

  The sound volume correction shown in the feature A15 is canceled at the end of the above situation. As a result, the volume can be further changed in accordance with the player's needs, and the automatic volume correction function can be suppressed from becoming a factor that causes trouble for the player.

<Feature B group>
Feature B1. Information acquisition means (MPU 202 of the main control device 81 performs information acquisition processing) for acquiring special information (holding information) based on the establishment of a predetermined acquisition condition (for example, entry into the operation ports 33a and 33b). Function to execute)
Acquisition information storage means (RAM 204 of the main control device 81) for storing the special information acquired by the information acquisition means;
Grant determination means (a function for executing the determination process in the MPU 202 of the main control device 81) for determining whether or not the special information stored in the acquired information storage means corresponds to the grant information;
Game control means (a function for executing game times control processing or the like in the MPU 202 of the main control device 81) for performing processing to advance a game based on the result of the grant determination by the grant determination means;
Operation means (operation buttons 75) operated by the player;
Sound output means (speaker unit 64) for outputting audible sound (for example, production sound);
Output control means (sound output function in the MPU 242 of the notification / production control device 82) for controlling the output of audible sound by the sound output means as the game progresses;
When the operation means is operated, a situation grasping means for grasping a gaming situation when the operation is performed;
A gaming machine comprising: volume adjusting means for adjusting the volume of the sound output means according to the situation grasped by the situation grasping means (volume adjusting function in the MPU 242 of the notification / production control device 82). .

  By making it possible to adjust the volume of the sound output means according to the player's needs, it is possible to contribute to the improvement of satisfaction when playing a game. However, if the sound volume is increased darkly, it gives an impression that it is bothersome to other players, and if the sound volume is excessively decreased, the existence significance of the sound effect is assumed to be lowered. In the first place, in the type of gaming machine that outputs the above-described effect sound, the sound (sound source that is the output target) that is output for each gaming situation may be different. For this reason, raising and lowering the volume uniformly may cause an excess or deficiency such as an excessive volume in a situation where it is not necessary or a lack of volume in a necessary situation. Here, according to the configuration shown in this feature, the sound volume is adjusted according to the game situation when the operation is performed, and the sound volume can be changed in accordance with the needs of the player. As a result, excessive or insufficient sound volume can be suitably suppressed, and the occurrence of various inconveniences described above can be suitably suppressed.

  Note that this feature indicates that “an operation corresponding effect executing means for executing an operation corresponding effect corresponding to the operation based on the operation of the operation means (a function for executing an operation corresponding effect in the MPU 242 of the notification / effect control device 82). ) ”And using the operation means used in the operation-related effect for the operation for adjusting the volume, it is possible to suitably suppress the complexity of the structure of the gaming machine due to the provision of the volume adjustment function.

Feature B2. The output control means includes
Sound source storage means for storing different types of sound sources;
Selecting means for selecting one sound source or a plurality of sound sources to be output according to the game situation;
Have
The volume adjusting means is
Volume setting means for setting the volume for each sound source;
When volume adjustment is performed by the volume adjustment means, sound source specifying means for specifying a sound source to be output; and
The gaming machine according to claim B1, further comprising means for changing the volume set by the volume setting means for the sound source specified by the sound source specifying means.

  By enabling the sound volume setting for each sound source in a type of game machine in which the sound source to be output is selected according to the game situation, it is possible to set the sound volume according to the player's preference.

  However, in the case of having such a plurality of sound sources, the adjustment operation can be complicated if individual setting work is required for each sound source. This gives the player the impression that the operation is troublesome, and it is assumed that the volume adjustment function is not utilized well. In this regard, according to the configuration shown in this feature, the sound source that is the output target is identified according to the situation in which the adjustment operation is performed, and the identified sound source is set as the volume adjustment target as described above. It is possible to avoid troublesome individual settings. Thereby, the convenience of a volume control function can be improved and it can contribute to the utilization promotion of the said function.

Feature B3. The volume adjusting means is
Volume adjustment state transition means (function for executing transition processing to the volume adjustment mode in the MPU 242 of the notification / production control device 82) that sets the volume adjustment state in which the volume adjustment is permitted based on the operation of the operation means. ,
When the operation means is operated in a state where the sound volume is adjusted, a sound volume changing means for changing the sound volume based on the operation (volume change processing is performed by the MPU 242 of the notification / production control device 82). Function to be executed)
The game according to Feature B2, wherein the sound source specifying means is configured to specify a sound source of a sound being output when an operation that has triggered the transition to the volume control state is performed. Machine.

  In the first place, if you take into consideration that the game situation changes every moment, and that the volume adjustment operation also requires a certain period of time, go to the timing and volume adjustment status when the volume change operation is actually performed The timing at which the transition operation is performed is shifted. Here, with regard to the sound source to be adjusted, the sound source that was the output target when the operation that triggered the transition to the volume adjustment state is performed, so that the sound volume that is the target of output can be adjusted to meet the needs of the player. The volume can be adjusted. This is because it is assumed that an operation related to volume adjustment (transition operation) is often performed at a timing when it is determined to adjust the volume.

Feature B4. When the volume is adjusted based on the operation of the operation means, the volume storage means for storing the volume before the adjustment,
The feature B2 or feature, wherein the sound volume adjusting means includes means for setting a sound volume in the sound output means to a sound volume stored in the sound volume storage means when a predetermined return condition is satisfied. A gaming machine according to B3.

  As shown in the feature B2 and the like, in the configuration in which the configuration for adjusting the volume for each sound source is combined, the sound source that does not match the player's intention is caused by the delay of the operation timing that triggers the transition to the volume adjustment state. There may be cases where adjustments are made. Therefore, as shown in this feature, if the configuration returns to the volume before the adjustment, the volume that has been changed by mistake returns to the level before the adjustment, and thus it is possible to suitably suppress the decrease in convenience.

Feature B5. Status storage means for storing the status of the volume adjustment;
Volume storage means for storing a volume adjustment result corresponding to the situation stored by the situation storage means;
Any one of the features B2 to B4, further comprising: a correction unit that adjusts the volume stored by the volume storage unit when the same situation as the state stored by the status storage unit is reached. The gaming machine described in one.

  According to the feature B5, when the volume is adjusted in a desired situation or the like, the volume is automatically adjusted (corrected) based on the previous adjustment result in the same situation thereafter. . Thereby, the player's repeated adjustment operation is unnecessary, and an increase in the operation burden due to the improvement in convenience can be suitably suppressed.

Feature B6. Information acquisition means (MPU 202 of the main control device 81 performs information acquisition processing) for acquiring special information (holding information) based on the establishment of a predetermined acquisition condition (for example, entry into the operation ports 33a and 33b). Function to execute)
Acquisition information storage means (RAM 204 of the main control device 81) for storing the special information acquired by the information acquisition means;
Grant determination means (a function for executing the determination process in the MPU 202 of the main control device 81) for determining whether or not the special information stored in the acquired information storage means corresponds to the grant information;
Game control means (a function for executing game times control processing or the like in the MPU 202 of the main control device 81) for performing processing to advance a game based on the result of the grant determination by the grant determination means;
Operation means (operation buttons 75) operated by the player;
Sound output means (speaker unit 64) for outputting audible sound (for example, production sound);
Output control means (sound output function in the MPU 242 of the notification / production control device 82) for controlling the output of audible sound by the sound output means as the game progresses;
When the operation means is operated in a situation where a game is in progress, a first sound volume adjustment means for adjusting the sound volume of the sound output means based on the operation (volume in the MPU 242 of the notification / production control device 82) Adjustment function)
When the operation means is operated in a situation where the game is not progressing, second sound volume adjustment means for adjusting the sound volume of the sound output means based on the operation (volume in the MPU 242 of the notification / production control device 82) A gaming machine characterized by having an adjustment function.

  By making it possible to adjust the volume of the sound output means according to the player's needs, it is possible to contribute to the improvement of satisfaction when playing a game. In this feature, in particular, by using together the first volume control means that functions when the game is progressing and the second volume control means that functions when the game is not progressing, The volume can be adjusted in different modes using the operating means. For example, as a configuration in which the first release condition for releasing the adjustment by the first volume control unit is more easily established than the second release condition for releasing the adjustment by the second volume control unit, the volume adjustment using the first volume adjustment unit is performed. It is also possible to adopt a configuration in which the period over which the result extends and the period of the volume adjustment using the second volume adjustment means are different from each other.

  The basic configuration of the gaming machine to which the above features can be applied is shown below.

  Pachinko gaming machine: operation means operated by the player (game ball launch handle 45), game ball launch means for launching a game ball based on the operation of the operation means (game ball launch mechanism 53), and the fired A ball path (rail portions 51 and 52) for guiding a game ball to a predetermined game area and game parts (nails, etc.) arranged in the game area, and a predetermined passage part (general) among these game parts A gaming machine that gives a privilege to a player when a game ball passes through a winning opening 31 or the like.

  Slot machine, etc .: A variable display means that displays a symbol sequence consisting of a plurality of symbols in a variable manner and then stops and displays the symbol sequence. Special game advantageous to the player on the condition that the change of the symbol is stopped due to the operation of the operation means for stoppage or when a predetermined time elapses and the final stop symbol at the time of stoppage is a specific symbol A gaming machine that generates a state (bonus game, etc.).

  Ball-use belt-type game machine: Equipped with variable display means that displays the symbol sequence consisting of multiple symbols in a variably displayed state, and then stops and displays the symbol sequence. The special game state (bonus) that is advantageous to the player on the condition that the change of the symbol is stopped due to the operation of the operating means or when the predetermined time elapses, and the final stop symbol at the time of the stop is a specific symbol A throwing device that performs a throwing process for taking in a game ball from the ball tray and a payout device for paying out the game ball to the ball tray, A gaming machine configured such that the operation of the starting operation means is made effective when a game ball is inserted by.

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 ... Pachinko machine as a gaming machine, 14 ... Front door frame as a door body, 24 ... Game board, 33 ... Working port unit, 33a, 33b ... Working port, 41 ... Symbol display device as a picture display means, 41a ... Display screen, 64 ... Speaker unit as sound output means, 75 ... Operation buttons as operation means, 81 ... Main control device, 82 ... Notification / production control device, 202 ... MPU, 203 ... ROM, 204 ... RAM, 241 ... Notification / production control board, 242... MPU, 243... ROM, 244.

Claims (2)

Information acquisition means for acquiring special information based on the establishment of a predetermined acquisition condition;
Acquisition information storage means for storing the special information acquired by the information acquisition means;
Grant determination means for determining whether or not the special information stored in the acquired information storage means corresponds to grant information;
Game control means for performing processing to advance the game based on the result of the grant determination by the grant determination means;
Operating means operated by the player;
An operation corresponding effect executing means for executing an operation corresponding effect corresponding to the operation based on the operation means being operated;
Sound output means capable of outputting audible sound;
Sound control means for controlling the sound output means as the game progresses;
Volume adjusting means for adjusting the volume of the sound output means,
The volume adjusting means is
A volume adjustment state transition means for setting the volume adjustment state in which the volume adjustment is allowed based on the operation when the operation means is operated while a game is in progress;
Volume information display means for displaying information indicating a set volume when the volume adjustment state transition means shifts to the volume adjustment state;
A volume changing unit that changes the volume based on the operation when the operation unit is operated in a state where the volume adjustment state is entered and information indicating the volume is displayed. A featured gaming machine.   The gaming machine according to claim 1, which is a pachinko machine.

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